As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 8, 2003
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 10
GENERAL FORM FOR REGISTRATION OF
SECURITIES Pursuant to Section 12(b) or (g) of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
Kronos, Inc.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of 76-0294959
incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
Three Lincoln Centre
5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700
Dallas, Texas 75240-2697
(972) 233-1700
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including area code,
of principal executive offices)
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of Each Class to be so Registered Name of Each Exchange on Which Each
Common Stock, par value $.01 per share Class is to be Registered
New York Stock Exchange
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Securities to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None
Copies of Communications Sent To:
Don M. Glendenning
Toni Weinstein
Locke Liddell & Sapp LLP
2200 Ross Avenue, Suite 2200
Dallas, Texas 75201
Telephone: (214) 740-8000
Facsimile: (214) 740-8800
EXPLANATORY NOTE: THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT HAS BEEN PREPARED ON A
PROSPECTIVE BASIS ON THE ASSUMPTION THAT, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE DISTRIBUTION
(AS DESCRIBED IN THE INFORMATION STATEMENT WHICH IS A PART OF THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT) AND THE RELATED TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED TO OCCUR PRIOR TO OR
CONTEMPORANEOUSLY WITH THE DISTRIBUTION WILL BE CONSUMMATED AS CONTEMPLATED BY
THE INFORMATION STATEMENT. THERE CAN BE NO ASSURANCE, HOWEVER, THAT ANY OR ALL
OF SUCH TRANSACTIONS WILL OCCUR OR WILL OCCUR AS SO CONTEMPLATED. ANY
SIGNIFICANT MODIFICATIONS OR VARIATIONS IN THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED WILL BE
REFLECTED IN AN AMENDMENT OR SUPPLEMENT TO THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT.
KRONOS, INC.
I. INFORMATION INCLUDED IN INFORMATION STATEMENT AND INCORPORATED IN FORM 10 BY
REFERENCE
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET BETWEEN
INFORMATION STATEMENT AND ITEMS OF FORM 10
Item No. Item Caption Location in Information Statement
Item 1. Business "Summary" (p. 1), "Risk Factors" (p. 8), "Relationships Among NL, Kronos and
Their Affiliates After the Distribution" (p. 23), "Management's Discussion and
Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" (p. 29), "Business"
(p. 47)
Item 2. Financial Information "Selected Financial Data" (p. 27), "Management's Discussion and Analysis of
Financial Condition and Results of Operations" (p. 29)
Item 3. Properties "Business-Properties" (p. 52)
Item 4. Security Ownership of "Principal Stockholders" (p. 59)
Certain Beneficial
Owners and Management
Item 5. Directors and "Management" (p. 53)
Executive Officers
Item 6. Executive Compensation "Management" (p. 53)
Item 7. Certain Relationships "Relationships Among NL, Kronos and Their Affiliates After the Distribution" (p.
23), "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions" (p. 63), "Consolidated
Financial Statements" (p. FB-1)
Item 8. Legal Proceedings "Business-Legal Proceedings" (p. 52)
Item 9. Market Price and "Summary" (p. 1), "Risk Factors," (p. 8), "The Distribution" (p. 16), "Dividend
Dividends on the Policy" (p. 26), "Description of Capital Stock" (p. 65)
Registrant's Common
Equity and Related
Stockholders Matters
Item 11. Description of "Description of Capital Stock" (p. 65)
Registrant's Securities
to be Registered
Item 12. Indemnification of "Description of Capital Stock--Liability and Indemnification of Directors and
Directors and Officer Officers" (p. 67)
Item 13. Financial Statements "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements" (p. FA-1);
and Supplementary Data "Consolidated Financial Statements" (p. FB-1)
Item 15. Financial Statements "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements" (p. FA-1);
and Exhibits "Consolidated Financial Statements" (p. FB-1)
II. INFORMATION NOT INCLUDED IN INFORMATION STATEMENT
Item 10. Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities
None.
Item 14. Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and
Financial Disclosure
None.
Item 15. Financial Statements and Exhibits
(a) Financial Statement Schedules:
Schedule I - Condensed Financial Information of the Registrant
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
(b) Exhibits:
Exhibit Number
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Description
2.1* Form of Distribution Agreement between NL Industries, Inc. and Kronos,
Inc.
3.1* Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of Kronos, Inc.
3.2* Amended and Restated Bylaws of Kronos, Inc.
4.1* Form of Common Stock Certificate of Kronos, Inc.
4.2 Indenture governing the 8.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2009, dated as
of June 28, 2002, between Kronos International, Inc. and The Bank of
New York, as trustee - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter
ended June 30, 2002
4.3 Form of certificate of 8.875% Senior Secured Note due 2009 (included
as Exhibit A to Exhibit 4.2) - incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.2 to Kronos International, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-4
(File No. 333-100047).
4.4 Form of certificate of 8.875% Senior Secured Note due 2009 (included
as Exhibit B to Exhibit 4.2) - incorporated by reference to Exhibit
4.3 to Kronos International Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-4
(File No. 333-100047).
4.5 Purchase Agreement, dated as of June 19, 2002, among Kronos
International, Inc., Deutsche Bank AG London, Dresdner Bank AG, London
Branch, and Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft, London Branch -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.4 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended June 30, 2002.
4.6 Registration Rights Agreement, dated as of June 28, 2002, among Kronos
International, Inc., Deutsche Bank AG London, Dresdner Bank AG, London
Branch, and Commerzbank Aktiengesellschaft, London Branch -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.5 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended June 30, 2002.
4.7 Collateral Agency Agreement, dated as of June 28, 2002, among The Bank
of New York, U.S. Bank, N.A. and Kronos International, Inc. (filed
herewith only with respect to Sections 2, 5, 6 and 8 thereof) -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.6 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended June 30, 2002.
4.8 Security Over Shares Agreement (shares of Kronos Limited), dated June
28, 2002, between Kronos International, Inc. and The Bank of New York,
U.S., as trustee - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.7 to the
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter
ended June 30, 2002.
4.9 Pledge of Shares (shares of Kronos Denmark ApS), dated June 28, 2002,
between Kronos International, Inc. and U.S. Bank, N.A., as collateral
agent - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.8 to the Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended June
30, 2002.
4.10 Pledge Agreement (pledge of shares of Societe Industrielle du Titane,
S.A.), dated June 28, 2002, between Kronos International, Inc. and
U.S. Bank, N.A., as collateral agent - incorporated by reference to
Exhibit 4.9 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries,
Inc. for the quarter ended June 30, 2002.
4.11 Partnership Interest Pledge Agreement (pledge of fixed capital
contribution in Kronos Titan GmbH & Co. OHG), dated June 28, 2002,
between Kronos International, Inc. and U.S. Bank, N.A., as collateral
agent - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 4.10 to the Quarterly
Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended June
30, 2002.
10.1** Form of Tax Agreement between Valhi, Inc. and Kronos, Inc.
10.2* Form of Intercorporate Services Agreement between NL Industries, Inc.
and Kronos, Inc., as amended.
10.3* Form of Promissory Note made by Kronos, Inc. in favor of NL
Industries, Inc.
10.4* Kronos, Inc. Long-Term Incentive Plan
10.5 (euro)80,000,000 Facility Agreement, dated June 25, 2002, among Kronos
Titan GmbH & Co. OHG, Kronos Europe S.A./N.V., Kronos Titan A/S and
Titania A/S, as borrowers, Kronos Titan GmbH & Co. OHG, Kronos Europe
S.A./N.V. and Kronos Norge AS, as guarantors, Kronos Denmark ApS, as
security provider, Deutsche Bank AG, as mandated lead arranger,
Deutsche Bank Luxembourg S.A., as agent and security agent, and KBC
Bank NV, as fronting bank, and the financial institutions listed in
Schedule 1 thereto, as lenders - incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.1 to the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for
the quarter ended June 30, 2002.
10.6 Lease Contract, dated June 21, 1952, between Farbenfabrieken Bayer
Aktiengesellschaft and Titangesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung
(German language version and English translation thereof) -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.14 to the Annual Report on
Form 10-K of NL Industries, Inc. for the year ended December 31, 1985.
10.7 Contract on Supplies and Services, dated as of June 30, 1995, among
Bayer AG, Kronos Titan-GmbH & Co. OHG and Kronos International, Inc.
(English translation from German language document) - incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.1 to Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of NL
Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended September 30, 1995.
10.8 Master Technology Exchange Agreement, dated as of October 18, 1993,
among Kronos, Inc., Kronos Louisiana, Inc., Kronos International,
Inc., Tioxide Group Limited and Tioxide Group Services Limited -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to the Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q of NL Industries, Inc. for the quarter ended September 30,
1993.
10.9 Services Agreement, dated as of January 1, 1995, amended as of April
1, 2002, among NL Industries, Inc., Kronos (US), Inc. and Kronos
International, Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.6 to
Kronos International, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File
No. 333-100047).
10.10 Form of Kronos Cost Sharing Agreement, effective as of January 1,
2002, among Kronos International, Inc., Kronos Europe S.A./N.V.,
Kronos (US), Inc., NL Industries, Inc., Kronos Titan GmbH & Co. OHG,
Societe Industrielle du Titane, S.A., Kronos Titan A/S, Titania A/S,
Kronos Limited, Kronos Canada, Inc., Kronos Denmark ApS and Kronos
Louisiana Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to Kronos
International, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No.
333-100047).
10.11 Form of Assignment and Assumption Agreement, dated as of January 1,
1999, between Kronos (US), Inc. and Kronos International, Inc. -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.9 to Kronos International,
Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-100047).
10.12 Form of Cross License Agreement, effective as of January 1, 1999,
between Kronos Inc. (formerly known as Kronos (USA), Inc.) and Kronos
International, Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to
Kronos International, Inc.'s Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File
No. 333-100047).
10.13*** Richards Bay Slag Sales Agreement, dated May 1, 1995, between Richards
Bay Iron and Titanium (Proprietary) Limited and Kronos, Inc. -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.17 to the Annual Report on
Form 10-K for NL Industries, Inc. for the year ended December 31,
1995.
10.14*** Amendment to Richards Bay Slag Sales Agreement, dated May 1, 1999,
between Richards Bay Iron and Titanium (Proprietary) Limited and
Kronos, Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.4 to the Annual
Report on Form 10-K for NL Industries, Inc. for the year ended
December 31, 1999.
10.15*** Amendment to Richards Bay Slag Sales Agreement, dated June 1, 2001,
between Richards Bay Iron and Titanium (Proprietary) Limited and
Kronos, Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to the Annual
Report on Form 10-K for NL Industries, Inc. for the year ended
December 31, 2001.
10.16*** Amendment to Richards Bay Slag Sales Agreement dated December 20, 2002
between Richards Bay Iron and Titanium (Proprietary) Limited and
Kronos, Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.7 to the Annual
Report on Form 10-K for NL Industries, Inc. for the year ended
December 31, 2002.
10.17*** Agreement between Sachtleben Chemie GmbH and Kronos Titan-GmbH
effective December 30, 1986 - incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.1 of Kronos International, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for
the quarter ended September 30, 2002.
10.18 Supplementary Agreement to the Agreement of December 30, 1986 between
Sachtleben Chemie GmbH and Kronos Titan-GmbH dated May 3, 1996 -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 of Kronos International,
Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September
30, 2002.
10.19 Second Supplementary Agreement to the Contract dated December 30, 1986
between Sachtleben Chemie GmbH and Kronos Titan-GmbH dated January 8,
2002 - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.3 of Kronos
International, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter
ended September 30, 2002.
10.20 Formation Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993 among Tioxide
Americas Inc., Kronos Louisiana, Inc. and Louisiana Pigment Company,
L.P. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.2 to NL Industries,
Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September
30, 1993.
10.21 Joint Venture Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993 between Tioxide
Americas Inc. and Kronos Louisiana, Inc. - incorporated by reference
to Exhibit 10.3 to NL Industries, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q
for the quarter ended September 30, 1993.
10.22 Kronos Offtake Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993 between Kronos
Louisiana, Inc. and Louisiana Pigment Company, L.P. - incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.4 to NL Industries, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1993.
10.23 Amendment No. 1 to Kronos Offtake Agreement dated as of December 20,
1995 between Kronos Louisiana, Inc. and Louisiana Pigment Company,
L.P. ? incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.22 to NL Industries,
Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31,
1995.
10.24 Tioxide Americas Offtake Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993
between Tioxide Americas Inc. and Louisiana Pigment Company, L.P. -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.5 to NL Industries, Inc.'s
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
1993.
10.25 Amendment No. 1 to Tioxide Americas Offtake Agreement dated as of
December 20, 1995 between Tioxide Americas Inc. and Louisiana Pigment
Company, L.P. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.24 to NL
Industries, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended
December 31, 1995.
10.26 TCI/KCI Output Purchase Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993 between
Tioxide Canada Inc. and Kronos Canada, Inc. - incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.6 to NL Industries, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1993.
10.27 TAI/KLA Output Purchase Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993 between
Tioxide Americas Inc. and Kronos Louisiana, Inc. - incorporated by
reference to Exhibit 10.7 to NL Industries, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on
Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 1993.
10.28 Master Technology Exchange Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993
among Kronos, Inc., Kronos Louisiana, Inc., Kronos International,
Inc., Tioxide Group Limited and Tioxide Group Services Limited -
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.8 to NL Industries, Inc.'s
Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30,
1993.
10.29 Parents' Undertaking dated as of October 18, 1993 between ICI American
Holdings Inc. and Kronos, Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit
10.9 to NL Industries, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the
quarter ended September 30, 1993.
10.30 Allocation Agreement dated as of October 18, 1993 between Tioxide
Americas Inc., ICI American Holdings, Inc., Kronos, Inc. and Kronos
Louisiana, Inc. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.10 to NL
Industries, Inc.'s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended
September 30, 1993.
10.31 Purchase Agreement dated January 4, 2002 by and among Kronos, Inc. as
the Purchaser, and Big Bend Holdings LLC and Contran Insurance
Holdings, Inc., as Sellers regarding the sale and purchase of EWI RE,
Inc. and EWI RE, Ltd. - incorporated by reference to Exhibit 10.40 to
the NL Industries, Inc.'s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 2001.
21.1** Subsidiaries.
99.1** Preliminary Information Statement dated August 8, 2003.
- ------------
* To be filed by amendment.
** Filed herewith.
*** Portions of the exhibit have been omitted pursuant to a request for
confidential treatment.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act
of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed
on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
KRONOS, INC.
By: /s/ Robert D. Graham
--------------------
Robert D. Graham
Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary
Dated: August 8, 2003
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
ON FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
To the Board of Directors of Kronos, Inc.:
Our audits of the consolidated financial statements referred to in our
report dated July 28, 2003 appearing on page FB-2 in this Form 10 of Kronos,
Inc. also included an audit of the financial statement schedules listed in Item
15(a) of this Form 10. In our opinion, these financial statement schedules
present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when
read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Houston, Texas
July 28, 2003
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE I-CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT
Condensed Balance Sheets
December 31, 2001 and 2002
(In thousands)
2001 2002
--------- --------
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents ............................ $ 9,648 $ 3,564
Receivable from affiliates ........................... 5,915 628
Deferred income taxes ................................ 671 647
-------- --------
-------- --------
Total current assets ............................. 16,234 4,839
Other assets:
Notes receivable from affiliates ..................... 503,967 88,054
Investment in subsidiaries ........................... 100,850 272,320
Deferred income taxes ................................ 8,622 8,890
-------- --------
Total other assets ............................... 613,439 369,264
-------- --------
-------- --------
$629,673 $374,103
======== ========
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities ............. $ 14 $ 16
Payable to affiliates ................................ 7,135 514
-------- --------
Total current liabilities ........................ 7,149 530
-------- --------
-------- --------
Noncurrent liabilities:
Notes payable to affiliates .......................... 238,925 44,600
Deferred income taxes ................................ 5,060 5,283
-------- --------
Total noncurrent liabilities ..................... 243,985 49,883
-------- --------
-------- --------
Stockholder's equity ..................................... 378,539 323,690
-------- --------
-------- --------
$629,673 $374,103
======== ========
Contingencies (Note 5)
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE I-CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT (Continued)
Condensed Statements of Income
Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002
(In thousands)
2000 2001 2002
-------- ------------ --------
Revenues and other (expense) income:
Equity in income from continuing operations of
subsidiaries ....................... $ 132,518 $ 148,267 $ 61,315
Interest and dividends ............... 100 29 483
Interest income from affiliates ...... 31,374 35,601 23,776
Other (expense) income, net .......... (2) -- 3,555
--------- --------- --------
--------- --------- --------
163,990 183,897 89,129
--------- --------- --------
--------- --------- --------
Costs and expenses:
General and administrative ........... 32 (103) (102)
Intercompany interest and other ...... 31,898 25,638 17,421
--------- --------- --------
--------- --------- --------
31,930 25,535 17,319
--------- --------- --------
--------- --------- --------
Income before income taxes ....... 132,060 158,362 71,810
Income tax expense ....................... 1,854 3,906 5,174
--------- --------- --------
--------- --------- --------
Net income ....................... $ 130,206 $ 154,456 $ 66,636
========= ========= ========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE I-CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT (Continued)
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows
Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002
(In thousands)
2000 2001 2002
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income $ 130,206 $ 154,456 $ 66,636
Equity in income of subsidiaries (132,518) (148,267) (61,315)
Distributions from subsidiaries 29,000 18,407 48,900
Noncash interest income, net - - (302)
Deferred income taxes (935) (3,147) (21)
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
25,753 21,449 53,898
Change in assets and liabilities, net (2,541) 5,137 (4,490)
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
Net cash provided by operating activities 23,212 26,586 49,408
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
Cash flows from investing activities:
Loans to affiliates:
Loans (17,000) (14,600) (83,200)
Collections 94,250 30,313 295,182
Investments in subsidiaries - (3,807) (9,149)
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
Net cash provided by investing activities 77,250 11,906 202,833
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE I-CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT (Continued)
Condensed Statements of Cash Flows (Continued)
Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002
(In thousands)
2000 2001 2002
----------- ----------- -----------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Dividends ................................................... $ (55,000) $(30,500) $(111,000)
Loans from affiliates:
Loans ................................................... -- 1,625 46,675
Repayments .............................................. (50,000) -- (194,000)
--------- -------- ---------
Net cash used by financing activities ................... (105,000) (28,875) (258,325)
--------- -------- ---------
--------- -------- ---------
Net change from operating, investing and financing activities (4,538) 9,617 (6,084)
Balance at beginning of year ................................ 4,569 31 9,648
--------- -------- ---------
--------- -------- ---------
Balance at end of year ...................................... $ 31 $ 9,648 $ 3,564
========= ======== =========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE I - CONDENSED FINANCIAL INFORMATION OF REGISTRANT (Continued)
Notes to Condensed Financial Information
Note 1 - Basis of presentation:
The accompanying financial statements of Kronos, Inc. reflect Kronos'
investment in its majority-owned subsidiaries on the equity method. The
Consolidated Financial Statements of Kronos, Inc. (the "Company") and the
related Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements are incorporated herein by
reference.
Note 2 - Net receivable from (payable to) subsidiaries and affiliates:
December 31,
---------------------------
2001 2002
------------- -------------
(In thousands)
Current:
Receivable from:
KII ................................... $ 4,812 $ --
Kronos (US), Inc. ("KUS") ............. 1,103 --
NL - income taxes ..................... -- 628
--------- --------
$ 5,915 $ 628
========= ========
Payable to:
KUS ................................... $ (2,259) $ (511)
NL - other ............................ (4,812) --
KLA ................................... -- (3)
NL - income taxes ..................... (64) --
--------- --------
$ (7,135) $ (514)
========= ========
Noncurrent:
Receivable from:
KUS ................................... $ 23,604 $ 43,454
KII ................................... 480,363 --
NL .................................... -- 44,600
--------- --------
$ 503,967 $ 88,054
========= ========
========= ========
Payable to:
(44,925) $
KII ................................... $ --
NL .................................... (194,000) --
EMS ................................... -- (44,600)
--------- --------
$(238,925) $(44,600)
========= ========
During 2002 the Company completed certain capital restructuring
transactions whereby the Company distributed to NL certain affiliate notes
receivable, net and the Company recorded a corresponding decrease in its
investment in subsidiaries. See Note 3.
Note 3 - Investment in subsidiaries:
December 31,
------------ ----------
2001 2002
------------ ----------
(In thousands)
Investment in:
KLA ........................................ $ 139,449 $104,089
Kronos Canada, Inc. ("KC") ................. 78,795 82,201
KII ........................................ (117,394) 76,164
EWI ........................................ -- 9,866
--------- --------
$ 100,850 $272,320
========= ========
Years ended December 31,
---------------------------------------------
2000 2001 2002
------------- ----------------- -------------
(In thousands)
Equity in income from continuing operations of subsidiaries:
KLA .................... $ 21,373 $ 14,578 $ 8,904
KC ..................... 16,663 9,483 11,288
KII .................... 94,482 124,206 40,751
EWI .................... -- -- 372
-------- -------- -------
$132,518 $148,267 $61,315
======== ======== =======
Note 4 - Long-term debt:
See Note 10 of the Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of
the Notes. The Company's $194 million 11.75% First-Tier Senior Mirror Note
payable to NL at December 31, 2001 was deemed repaid in accordance with the
terms and conditions of the agreement and the agreement was canceled. See Note
11 of the Consolidated Financial Statements.
Note 5 - Contingencies:
See Environmental, product liability and litigation matters in Note 19 to
the Consolidated Financial Statements.
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
(In thousands)
Description Balance at Charges Deductions
(credits)
beginning to costs and
of year expenses
------------------------------------ --------------------
Year ended December 31, 2000:
Allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable $ 1,956 $ 342 $ (67)(a)
================ =================== ====================
Amortization of intangibles $ 22,095 $ 113 $ (20,429)
================ =================== ====================
Year ended December 31, 2001:
Allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable $ 2,103 $ 485 $ (245)(a)
================ =================== ====================
$
Amortization of intangibles $ - - $ -
================ =================== ====================
Year ended December 31, 2002:
Allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable $ 2,239 $ 481 $ (414)(a)
================ =================== ====================
Amortization of intangibles $ - $ 372 $ -
================ =================== ====================
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
SCHEDULE II - VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
(In thousands)
Description Currency Balance at
translation
adjustments end of year
------------------ ------------------
Year ended December 31, 2000:
Allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable $ (128) $ 2,103
================== ==================
Amortization of intangibles $ (1,779) $ -
================== ==================
Year ended December 31, 2001:
Allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable $ (104) $ 2,239
================== ==================
Amortization of intangibles $ - $ -
================== ==================
Year ended December 31, 2002:
Allowance for doubtful accounts and notes receivable $ 299 $ 2,605
================== ==================
Amortization of intangibles $ - $ 372
================== ==================
(a) Amounts written off, less recoveries.
Certain information has been omitted because it is included in the Notes to the
Consolidated Financial Statements.
TAX AGREEMENT
Between
VALHI, INC.
and
KRONOS, INC.
AGREEMENT dated as of ____________ by and among Valhi, Inc. ("VHI"), a
Delaware corporation having its principal executive offices at Three Lincoln
Centre, 5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700, Dallas, Texas 75240, Contran Corporation
("Contran"), a Delaware corporation having its principal executive offices at
Three Lincoln Centre, 5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700, Dallas, TX 75240 and Kronos,
Inc. ("KI"), a Delaware corporation having its principal executive offices at
Three Lincoln Centre, 5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700, Dallas, TX 75240.
WHEREAS, VHI and KI file consolidated returns of federal income taxes and,
subject to certain jurisdictional limitations, are subject to combined state and
local tax reporting;
WHEREAS, the tax sharing agreement between KI and NL Industries, Inc.
("NL") shall terminate effective _______________;
WHEREAS, VHI and KI wish to provide for the allocation of liabilities, and
procedures to be followed, with respect to federal income taxes of KI and any
subsidiaries of KI and with respect to certain combined state and local taxes on
the terms of this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the promises and agreements herein
contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. Definitions. As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the
meanings set forth below:
(a) Code: The Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and with
respect to any section thereof any successor provisions under such Code or
any successor Code.
(b) Combined Foreign, State and Local Taxes: For a taxable period, the
amount of all foreign, state and local taxes, together with all interest
and penalties with respect thereto, for which liability is computed (1) on
the basis of a combined, unitary or consolidated return (whether at the
initiative of the tax authority or of the taxpayer) and (2) by reference to
one or more members of the KI Group and one or more members of the VHI
Group not included in the KI Group.
(c) Contran Corporation: A Delaware corporation that is the common
parent of a group of corporations electing to file a consolidated federal
income tax return.
(d) Federal Taxes: All federal income taxes, together with all
interest and penalties with respect thereto.
(e) VHI Group: VHI and those of its direct and indirect subsidiaries
which join in the filing of a consolidated federal income tax return with
its common parent, Contran (the "Contran Tax Group"), as such Group is
constituted from time to time. For purposes of this Agreement (to the
extent related to Combined Foreign, State and Local Taxes), the term "VHI
Group" shall include all direct and indirect subsidiaries of VHI with
reference to which Combined Foreign, State and Local Taxes are determined.
(f) KI Group: Kronos, Inc. and each direct or indirect subsidiary of
KI which would be a member of an affiliated group, within the meaning of
section 1504(a) of the Code, of which KI was the common parent, as such
Group is constituted from time to time. For purposes of this Agreement (to
the extent related to Combined Foreign, State and Local Taxes) , the term
"KI Group" shall include all direct and indirect subsidiaries of KI with
reference to which Combined, Foreign, State and Local taxes are determined.
(g) KI Group Tax Liability: For a taxable period, the liability for
Federal Taxes and Combined Foreign, State and Local taxes, as applicable,
that the KI Group would have had if it were not a member of the VHI Group
during such taxable period (or during any taxable period prior thereto),
and instead filed a separate consolidated return for such taxable period
(and during all prior taxable periods beginning after _________ when the KI
Group was part of the consolidated federal income tax group of which NL was
the common parent ("NL Group")); provided, however, that for purposes of
determining such liability for a taxable period all tax elections shall be
consistent with the tax elections made by Contran for such period. In
making such tax elections it is understood Contran will make those tax
elections which are beneficial to the Contran Tax Group on a consolidated
basis. Nevertheless, Contran will use its best efforts in the case of those
elections which affect the computation of the KI Group Tax Liability, to
make elections in a reasonable manner so as to minimize the KI Group Tax
Liability.
2. Contran as Agent. Contran shall be the sole agent for the KI Group in
all matters relating to the KI Group Tax Liability. The KI Group shall not (a)
terminate such agency or (b) without the consent of Contran, participate, or
attempt to participate, in any matters related to the KI Group Tax Liability,
including, but not limited to, preparation or filing of, or resolution of
disputes, protests or audits with the Internal Revenue Service, state or local
taxing authorities concerning, the Contran Group's consolidated returns of
Federal Taxes, returns of Combined Foreign, State and Local Taxes or the KI
Group Tax Liability with respect thereto for any taxable period beginning after
_________. The KI Group shall cooperate fully in providing Contran with all
information and documents necessary or desirable to enable Contran to perform
its obligations under this Section, including completion of Internal Revenue
Service and state or local tax audits in connection with such KI Group Tax
Liability and determination of the proper liability for such KI Group Tax
Liability.
3. Liability for Taxes; Refunds.
(a) VHI, as the common parent of the KI Group, shall be responsible
for, and shall pay to Contran or a taxing authority, as applicable, the
consolidated tax liability for the VHI Group and has the sole right to any
refunds received from Contran or a taxing authority, as applicable, subject
to the provisions of Sections 5 and 6 of this Agreement.
(b) Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, KI and each
subsidiary of KI which is a member of the KI Group shall be severally
liable to VHI for the KI Group Tax Liability.
(c) KI shall indemnify VHI and hold it and the VHI Group other than
the KI Group, harmless from and against any deficiency in the KI Group Tax
Liability that may be due to VHI.
(d) VHI shall indemnify KI and hold it and the KI Group harmless from
and against any Federal Taxes and Combined Foreign, State and Local Taxes
attributable to the VHI Group or any other member of the Contran Tax Group,
other than the KI Group, as such taxes are determined under this and other
tax sharing agreements.
4. Tax Returns. VHI shall file on behalf of the KI Group any and all
federal, foreign, state and local tax returns that are required as they pertain
to the KI Group Tax Liability. The KI Group, at VHI's request, shall join in any
applicable consolidated returns of Federal Taxes and any returns of Combined
Foreign, State and Local Taxes (for which returns have not been theretofore
filed) and execute its consent, if such consent has not previously been
executed, to each such filing on any form as may be prescribed for such consent
if such consent is required. The decision of VHI's Senior Vice President (or any
other officer so designated by VHI) with responsibility for tax matters shall,
subject to the provisions of this Agreement, be binding in any dispute between
VHI and the KI Group as to what tax position should be taken with respect to any
item or transaction of the KI Group. The preceding sentence is limited to the
tax positions that affect the KI Group Tax Liability and the combined VHI Group
and Contran Tax Group. In addition, VHI and members of the VHI Group, including
KI and members of the KI Group, shall provide each other with such cooperation,
assistance and information as each of them may request of the other with respect
to the filing of any tax return, amended return, claim for refund or other
document with any taxing authority. KI shall be solely responsible for all taxes
due for the KI Group with respect to tax returns filed by KI or a member of the
KI Group that are required to be filed on a separate company basis, independent
of VHI.
5. Payment of KI Group Tax Liability for Federal Taxes. On or before each
date, as determined under section 6655 of the Code, for payment of an
installment of estimated Federal Taxes, KI shall pay to VHI an amount equal to
the installment which the KI Group would have been required to pay as an
estimated payment of Federal Taxes to the Internal Revenue Service if it were
filing a separate consolidated return in respect of the KI Group Tax Liability.
Any balance owed with respect to the KI Group Tax Liability for such taxable
period shall be paid to VHI on or before the 15th day of the third month after
the close of such taxable period. If it is not possible to determine the amount
of such balance on or before such day, (a) a reasonable estimate thereof shall
be paid on or before such day, (b) the amount of such balance shall be finally
determined on or before the earlier of; (i) the 15th day of the ninth month
after the close of such taxable period and (ii) the date on which the
consolidated tax return containing the KI Group for such period is filed with
the Internal Revenue Service, and (c) any difference between the amount so
determined and the estimated amount paid shall; (i) in the case of an
underpayment, be promptly paid to VHI and (ii) in the case of an overpayment, be
promptly refunded or applied against the estimated KI Group Tax Liability for
the immediately following tax period, at the option of VHI. If the overpayment
is not applied to the immediately following tax period, such overpayment shall
be promptly refunded to the KI Group. As between the parties to this Agreement,
the KI Group shall be solely responsible for the KI Group Tax Liability and
shall have no responsibility for Federal Taxes of the VHI Group or the Contran
Group other than payment of the KI Group Tax Liability in accordance with the
terms of this Agreement.
6. Refunds for KI Group Losses and Credits for Federal Taxes. If the
calculation with respect to the KI Group Tax Liability for Federal Taxes results
in a net operating loss ("NOL") for the current tax period that, in the absence
of a Code Section 172(b)(3) election made by Contran, is carried back under Code
Sections 172 and 1502 to a prior taxable period or periods of the KI Group with
respect to which the KI Group previously made payments to VHI, then, in that
event, VHI shall pay (or credit) KI an amount equal to the tax refund to which
the KI Group would have been entitled had the KI Group filed a separate
consolidated federal income tax return for such year (but not in excess of the
net aggregate amount of the KI Group Tax Liability paid to VHI with respect to
the preceding two taxable periods). If the calculation with respect to the KI
Group Tax Liability results in an NOL for the current tax period, that subject
to the Code Section 172(b)(3) election made by Contran, is not carried back
under Code Sections 172 and 1502 to a prior taxable period or periods of the KI
Group with respect to which KI made payments to VHI or is not carried back
because the Contran Tax Group does not have a consolidated net operating loss
for the current tax period, then, in that event such NOL shall be an NOL
carryover to be used in computing the KI Group Tax Liability for future taxable
periods, under the law applicable to NOL carryovers in general, as such law
applies to the relevant taxable period. Furthermore, if the KI Group would have
been entitled to a refund of Federal Taxes for any year had the KI Group filed a
separate consolidated federal income tax return for the loss year and the
carryback year as part of the NL Group, VHI shall pay to KI the amount which KI
would have received as a refund from NL. Payments made pursuant to this Section
6 shall be made on the date that Contran (or any successor common parent of a
tax group to which the VHI Group is a member) files its consolidated federal
income tax return for the taxable period involved. Principles similar to those
discussed in this Section 6 shall apply in the case of the utilization of all KI
Group loss and credit carrybacks and carryovers.
7. Payment of KI Group Tax Liability for Foreign, State and Local Taxes.
The foregoing principles contained in Sections 5 and 6 shall apply in similar
fashion to any consolidated or combined foreign, state or other local income tax
returns, containing any member of the VHI Group and any member of the KI Group
that is not also a member of the VHI Group, which may be filed.
8. Subsequent Adjustments. If any settlement with the Internal Revenue
Service, foreign, state or local tax authority or court decision which has
become final results in any adjustment to any item of income, deduction, loss or
credit to the VHI Group in respect of any taxable period subject to this
Agreement, which, in any such case, affects or relates to any member of the KI
Group as constituted during such taxable period, the KI Tax Group Liability
shall be redetermined to give effect to such adjustment as if it had been made
as part of or reflected in the original computation of the KI Tax Group
Liability and proper adjustment of amounts paid or owing hereunder in respect of
such liability and allocation shall be promptly made in light thereof.
9. Amendments. This Agreement may be amended, modified, superseded or
cancelled, and any of the terms, covenants, or conditions hereof may be waived,
only by a written instrument specifically referring to this Agreement and
executed by all parties (or, in the case of a waiver, by or on behalf of the
party waiving compliance). The failure of any party at any time or times to
require performance of any provision of this Agreement shall in no manner affect
the right at a later time to enforce the same. No waiver by any party of any
condition, or of any breach of any term or covenant, contained in this
Agreement, in any one or more instances, shall be deemed to be or construed as a
further or continuing waiver of any such condition or breach, or a waiver of any
other condition or of any breach of any other term or covenant.
10. Retention of Records. VHI shall retain all tax returns, tax reports,
related workpapers and all schedules (along with all documents that pertain to
any such tax returns, reports or workpapers) that relate to a taxable period in
which the KI Group is included in a consolidated or combined tax return with
VHI. VHI shall make such documents available to KI at KI's request. VHI shall
not dispose of such documents without the permission of KI.
11. Headings. The headings of this Agreement are for convenience of
reference only, and shall not in any way affect the meaning or interpretation of
this Agreement.
12. Governing Law. This Agreement shall be construed and enforced in
accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware without regard to conflicts of
laws provisions.
13. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in multiple counterparts,
each of which shall be an original, but all of which shall constitute but one
agreement.
14. Successors. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the
benefit of the parties hereto and their respective subsidiaries, and their
respective successors and assigns.
15. Effective Date. This Agreement shall be effective as of _________.
- --------------
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the
date first above written.
VALHI, INC.
By: /s/ William J. Lindquist
-------------------------------
William J. Lindquist
Senior Vice President
[Seal]
ATTEST:
CONTRAN CORPORATION
By: /s/ William J. Lindquist
-------------------------------
William J. Lindquist
Senior Vice President
[Seal]
ATTEST:
KRONOS, INC.
By: /s/ Kelly D. Luttmer
-------------------------------
Kelly D. Luttmer
Tax Director
EXHIBIT 21.1
SUBSIDIARIES OF THE REGISTRANT AS OF JUNE 30, 2003
Jurisdiction of
incorporation % of Voting
NAME OF CORPORATION or organization Securities Held
- --------------------------------------------------- --------------- ---------------
Kronos, Inc. Delaware 100
Kronos Canada, Inc. Canada 100
Kronos International, Inc. Delaware 100
Kronos Titan GmbH & Co. OHG Germany 100
Unterstutzungskasse Kronos Titan-GmbH Germany 100
Kronos Chemie-GmbH Germany 100
Kronos World Services S.A./N.V. Belgium 100
Societe Industrielle du Titane, S.A. France 94
Kronos Limited United Kingdom 100
Kronos Denmark ApS Denmark 100
Kronos Europe S.A./N.V. Belgium 100
Kronos B.V. Holland 100
Kronos Norge A/S Norway 100
Kronos Titan A/S Norway 100
Titania A/S Norway 100
The Jossingfjord Manufacturing Company A/S Norway 100
Kronos Invest A/S Norway 100(a)
Kronos Louisiana, Inc. Delaware 100
Kronos (US) Inc. Delaware 100
Louisiana Pigment Company, L.P. Delaware 50(b)
(a) On March 30, 2002, Titania Invest A/S was merged into Kronos Invest A/S.
(b) Unconsolidated joint venture accounted for by the equity method.
Exhibit 99.1
PRELIMINARY COPY DATED AUGUST 8, 2003
SUBJECT TO COMPLETION OR AMENDMENT
INFORMATION STATEMENT
Dear NL Industries, Inc. Shareholder:
On August 8, 2003, the Board of Directors of NL Industries, Inc. ("NL")
approved plans to distribute to NL shareholders approximately 23.85 million
shares of the common stock of Kronos, Inc. ("Kronos"), representing
approximately 48.9% of the outstanding shares of common stock of Kronos. Kronos
is currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of NL. As a holder of NL common stock,
you will receive one share of Kronos common stock for every two shares of NL
common stock that you own at the close of business on ________, 2003, the record
date for the distribution. No fractional shares of Kronos common stock will be
issued. If you would otherwise be entitled to a fractional share, you will
receive a check for the cash value thereof. We are sending you this information
statement to describe the distribution of Kronos stock.
A SHAREHOLDER VOTE IS NOT REQUIRED FOR THE DISTRIBUTION TO OCCUR. WE ARE
NOT ASKING YOU FOR A PROXY, AND WE REQUEST THAT YOU DO NOT SEND US A PROXY. In
addition, you do not need to pay any cash or other consideration for the shares
of Kronos common stock that you receive, nor will you be required to surrender
or exchange your existing shares of NL common stock, or take any other action in
order to receive Kronos common stock. The number of shares of NL common stock
that you currently own will not change as a result of the distribution. THE
DISTRIBUTION OF KRONOS COMMON STOCK WILL BE A TAXABLE DIVIDEND UNDER U.S. INCOME
TAX LAWS AND WILL GENERALLY BE TAXED AT RECENTLY ENACTED FAVORABLE DIVIDEND
RATES IF RECEIVED BY INDIVIDUAL SHAREHOLDERS.
There has been no trading market for Kronos common stock. However, we
expect that a limited market for Kronos common stock, commonly known as a "when
issued" trading market, will develop on or shortly before the record date for
the distribution. Kronos expects to apply to list its common stock on the New
York Stock Exchange and expects that its common stock will be traded on such
exchange under the trading symbol "___."
This information statement contains information about the distribution and
about Kronos.
Sincerely,
Harold C. Simmons
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
As you review this information statement, you should carefully consider the
matters described in "Risk Factors" beginning on page 8 in evaluating the
benefits and risks of holding or disposing of shares of Kronos common stock that
you will receive in the distribution.
This information statement does not constitute an offer to sell or the
solicitation of an offer to buy any securities.
Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities
commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this
information statement is truthful or complete. Any representation to the
contrary is a criminal offense.
The date of this information statement is __________, 2003, and it is being
mailed to NL shareholders on or about _______, 2003.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
SUMMARY...........................................1
RISK FACTORS......................................8
SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS.....15
THE DISTRIBUTION..................................16
Reasons for the Distribution.................16
Description of the Distribution..............17
Results of the Distribution..................19
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax
Consequences of the Distribution...........19
Listing and Trading of Kronos Common
Stock......................................21
RELATIONSHIPS AMONG NL, KRONOS
AND THEIR AFFILIATES AFTER THE DISTRIBUTION....23
Distribution Agreement.......................23
Intercorporate Services Agreement............26
Tax Sharing Agreement........................26
DIVIDEND POLICY...................................26
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA...........................27
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND
ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION
AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS......................29
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates...29
Results of Operations........................30
Liquidity and Capital Resources..............35
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures
About Market Risk..........................44
Non-GAAP Financial Measures..................46
BUSINESS..........................................47
General......................................47
Industry.....................................47
Products and Operations......................47
Manufacturing Process and Raw Materials......48
TiO2 Manufacturing Joint Venture.............49
Competition..................................49
Page
Research and Development.....................50
Patents and Trademarks.......................50
Foreign Operations...........................50
Customer Base and Seasonality................50
Employees....................................51
Regulatory and Environmental Matters.........51
Properties...................................52
Legal Proceedings............................52
MANAGEMENT........................................53
Directors and Officers.......................53
Board Committees.............................55
Compensation of Directors....................55
Compensation of Executive Officers...........56
Compensatory Plans and Arrangements..........58
Compensation Committee Interlocks and
Insider Participation......................58
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS............................59
Ownership of NL and Kronos Common
Stock......................................59
Ownership of Valhi Common Stock..............61
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS....63
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK......................65
Common Stock.................................65
Preferred Stock..............................66
Provisions That May Have an Anti-Takeover 66
Effect Liabilities and Indemnification of
Directors and Officers.....................67
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE
INFORMATION....................................68
INDEX OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.....................F-1
SUMMARY
This summary highlights selected information from this information
statement but does not contain all details concerning the distribution of Kronos
common stock, including information that may be important to you. To better
understand the distribution, you should carefully read this entire document.
References in this document to NL mean NL Industries, Inc. and references to
Kronos mean Kronos, Inc. The market data in this information statement,
including growth rates and information relating to our relative position in the
industry, are based on internal surveys, market research and other
publicly-available information. Although we believe that such third party
sources are reliable, we have not independently verified the accuracy or
completeness of this information.
Who We Are
NL, organized as a New Jersey corporation in 1891, conducts its primary
operations through Kronos, a Delaware corporation and one of its principal
wholly-owned subsidiaries. Kronos is the world's fifth largest producer of
titanium dioxide pigments, or TiO2, with an estimated 12% share of worldwide
TiO2 sales volume in 2002. TiO2 is a pigment used to whiten, brighten and add
opacity to thousands of commonly used products, such as paints, plastics and
paper, as well as fibers, rubber, ceramics, inks and cosmetics. There are
currently no effective substitutes for TiO2 for use in these applications.
Approximately one-half of Kronos' 2002 sales volume was in Europe, where Kronos
is the second largest producer of TiO2. In 2002, Kronos had an estimated 18%
share of European TiO2 sales volume and an estimated 14% share of North American
TiO2 sales volume.
At _________, 2003, Valhi, Inc. ("Valhi") and Tremont LLC ("Tremont"), a
wholly owned subsidiary of Valhi, held an aggregate of approximately 85% of NL's
outstanding common stock. At _________, 2003, Contran Corporation ("Contran")
and its subsidiaries held approximately 90% of Valhi's outstanding common stock.
Substantially all of Contran's outstanding voting stock is held by trusts
established for the benefit of certain children and grandchildren of Harold C.
Simmons, of which Mr. Simmons is the sole trustee. Mr. Simmons is the Chairman
of the Board of each of Contran, Valhi and Tremont, the Chairman of the Board
and Chief Executive Officer of NL and, as of the distribution date, is
anticipated to be the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of
Kronos, and may be deemed to control each such company. See "Principal
Stockholders."
The Distribution
NL will distribute approximately 23.85 million shares of Kronos common
stock, representing approximately 48.9% of the outstanding shares of Kronos
common stock, to its shareholders. As a result, each NL shareholder as of the
close of business on ________, 2003, which is the record date for the
distribution, will receive one share of Kronos common stock for every two shares
of NL common stock held as of the record date. NL and Kronos expect that the
distribution will take place on or about _______, 2003, although completion of
the distribution is contingent upon the satisfaction of conditions described in
the distribution agreement. See "Relationships Among NL, Kronos and Their
Affiliates After the Distribution--Distribution Agreement." THE DISTRIBUTION OF
KRONOS COMMON STOCK WILL BE A TAXABLE DIVIDEND UNDER U.S. INCOME TAX LAWS AND
WILL GENERALLY BE TAXED AT RECENTLY ENACTED FAVORABLE DIVIDEND RATES IF RECEIVED
BY INDIVIDUAL SHAREHOLDERS.
As soon as practicable on or about the distribution date, NL will deliver
to the distribution agent, Equiserve Trust Co., N.A., certificates representing
the shares of Kronos common stock to be distributed to NL shareholders. The
distribution agent will then cause distributions of Kronos shares to be made in
book-entry form to each holder of NL common stock who holds such stock in
book-entry form and will deliver stock certificates to each holder of NL common
stock that holds such stock in certificate form.
Immediately prior to the distribution of Kronos common stock to NL
shareholders, Kronos will be recapitalized to increase the number of shares of
its authorized common stock to 60 million, and Kronos will declare and pay a
dividend to NL in the form of a $200 million long-term note payable to NL (the
"Term Note"). The terms of the Term Note are described in "Relationships Among
NL, Kronos and Their Affiliates After the Distribution--Distribution
Agreement--Term Note."
Questions and Answers About the Distribution and Kronos
Q: Why is the distribution being made?
A: The Board of Directors of NL has determined that the distribution is in the
best interests of NL and its shareholders. Through the recapitalization of
Kronos and distribution of approximately 48.9% of the outstanding shares of
Kronos common stock, NL believes significant benefits will be achieved.
First, it is believed that Kronos will be recognized in the TiO2 industry
and the financial markets as an entity whose business operations are
distinct from NL. Investors, suppliers, customers and employees worldwide
will be able to view and evaluate the Kronos business independently from NL
and its historical operations, and acquire a direct equity ownership
interest in Kronos. The separation and resulting public company recognition
should enhance the ability of Kronos to capitalize on the Kronos brand name
and to develop separate business relationships and strategies distinct from
operating as a wholly-owned subsidiary of NL, which is expected to enhance
Kronos' global competitive position.
Second, NL will retain a significant equity ownership interest in Kronos
and will continue to benefit from the affiliate group holding a controlling
interest in a public company serving the global TiO2 market. As Kronos
continues to grow and develop its TiO2 business separate from NL, the
potential long-term investment return to NL and its shareholders is
anticipated to increase. In 2002, Kronos International, Inc., a
wholly-owned subsidiary of Kronos ("KII"), issued (euro)285 million
aggregate principal amount of 8.875% Senior Secured Notes due 2009 (the
"KII Senior Notes"), primarily in the European financial market. Proceeds
of such financing were used in part to repay intercompany debt owed by KII
to Kronos, which in turn was used to repay intercompany debt owed by Kronos
to NL. NL used a portion of such proceeds to repay all of its third party
long-term indebtedness with the balance used for general corporate
purposes. As demonstrated by KII's successful public debt offering in 2002,
and the continuing market interest in such debt, as well as other recent
financing arrangements entered into by KII and its subsidiaries, it is
believed that the equity of Kronos will also be attractive to the financial
markets. It is further believed that with a separate public trading market,
the Kronos common stock retained by NL will provide significant increased
value to NL as a result of the anticipated favorable valuation of Kronos in
the financial markets. NL over time could sell a portion of its holdings of
Kronos common stock in the established trading market or more readily use
such stock as collateral for future credit arrangements if such additional
liquidity is determined to be beneficial to NL in the future.
Third, NL believes that the distribution will provide it with greater
opportunity for diversification of its holdings and business interests.
Through its future diversification efforts, NL may be able to provide
potentially more consistent and stable financial performance compared to
its current holdings. In order to accomplish a diversification of its
holdings, it is believed NL will require additional sources of liquidity.
As a result of the 2002 public debt offering by KII, and repayment of
intercompany debts, NL achieved additional liquidity while discharging all
of its long-term debt obligations. Through the recapitalization of Kronos,
NL will receive significant additional consideration through the payment of
a dividend in the form of the Term Note, which will provide NL with
additional financial resources and liquidity. The results of the 2002
financing activities and the dividend of the Term Note effectively converts
a portion of NL's investment in Kronos into a more liquid form (with
respect to the proceeds received from the 2002 financing activities) and
into a more senior position (with respect to the Term Note) that will also
provide additional liquidity to NL. Additionally, the distribution of
Kronos common stock should enhance NL's ability to monetize a portion of
its remaining holdings of Kronos common stock through potential future
sales of common equity or the use of Kronos common stock as collateral for
any future credit arrangements. Upon the completion of the distribution, NL
will explore diversification opportunities beyond the scope of its existing
business, which should reduce the risks inherent in continuing to conduct
its operations primarily in a single highly competitive industry that is
capital intensive and subject to significant historically cyclical demand
and pricing variations.
Q: Should I send in my NL stock certificates for exchange?
A: No, the distribution is not an exchange. Holders of NL common stock should
not send stock certificates to NL, Kronos or the distribution agent.
Q: Will NL shareholders vote on the distribution?
A: No. The vote of NL's shareholders is not required to complete the
distribution.
Q: How will fractional shares be treated?
A: On or after the distribution date, the distribution agent will aggregate
all fractional shares, sell them on the open market at prevailing market
prices and distribute the aggregate proceeds ratably to those NL
shareholders otherwise entitled to receive fractional shares. As a result,
each holder of NL common stock who would otherwise be entitled to receive a
fractional share will receive cash for those fractional shares less
applicable withholding taxes and a pro rata portion of the aggregate
brokerage commission payable in connection with the sale of the fractional
shares.
Q: What do shareholders need to do to participate in the distribution?
A: Nothing. The distribution agent will distribute shares of Kronos common
stock to NL shareholders without shareholders having to take any action.
Q: Why am I receiving this information statement?
A: This information statement is being provided solely to furnish information
to shareholders of NL who will receive shares of Kronos common stock in the
distribution. It is not, and is not intended to be construed as, an
inducement or encouragement to buy or sell any Kronos or NL securities. We
believe that the information contained in this information statement is
accurate as of the date set forth on the cover, and neither the mailing of
this information statement nor the delivery of Kronos common stock in the
distribution will create any implication to the contrary. Changes may occur
after that date, and we will not update the information contained herein
except in the normal course of public disclosure obligations and practices.
You should carefully review the information provided in this document.
Q: Will the distribution change the number of shares I own in NL?
A: No. The distribution will not change the number of NL common shares that
you own and after the distribution you will own the same percent of NL that
you owned immediately prior to the distribution. Immediately after the
distribution, NL's shareholders will continue to own their respective
proportionate interests in NL and Kronos. However, shareholders will now
own their interests in these businesses through their ownership of stock in
each of two public companies.
Q: Are there risks to continuing to own Kronos common stock following the
distribution?
A: Yes. The separation of Kronos from NL presents risks relating to Kronos'
common stock being publicly traded for the first time. Also, Kronos' Board
of Directors will make independent determinations regarding whether to pay
dividends and, if so, the amount and frequency of such dividend payments.
In addition, Kronos' business is subject to both general and specific risks
relating to its operations. Many of these risks are described in the "Risk
Factors" section beginning on page 8. We encourage you to read that section
carefully.
Q: Will Kronos common stock be publicly traded?
A: Kronos expects to apply for the listing of its common stock on the New York
Stock Exchange. Kronos expects that its common stock will be approved for
listing on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "___" and
that regular trading will begin on or about the distribution date.
Before regular trading begins, Kronos expects that a limited market for
shares of its common stock, commonly known as a "when issued" trading
market, will develop on or shortly before the record date for the
distribution. The term "when-issued" means that shares can be traded prior
to the time certificates are actually available or issued. Even though
when-issued trading may develop, none of these trades will settle prior to
the effective date of the distribution, and if the distribution does not
occur, all when-issued trading will be null and void.
Q: Will the distribution affect the trading price of my NL common stock?
A: Probably. After the distribution, NL common stock will continue to be
listed on the NYSE under the symbol "NL," and the trading price of NL
common stock will likely be lower than the trading price immediately prior
to the distribution. Moreover, until the market has evaluated NL after the
distribution, the trading price of NL common stock may fluctuate
significantly.
Q: Will the distribution affect the amount of dividends that I receive on my
NL common stock, and does Kronos expect to pay a regular quarterly
dividend?
A: Yes. After the distribution, NL currently expects to reduce its regular
quarterly common stock dividend from $.20 per share to $___ per share and,
following the distribution, Kronos currently expects to pay an initial
quarterly dividend of $___ per share. However, the payment of dividends by
NL and Kronos is subject to the discretion of their respective boards of
directors, and various factors, including those discussed below on page 8
under "Risk Factors--Various factors may hinder the declaration and payment
of dividends following the distribution."
Q: What if I want to sell my NL common stock or Kronos common stock after the
distribution?
A: Unless you are an affiliate of NL or Kronos, you are free to sell your
shares of NL common stock or Kronos common stock. However, you should
consult with your financial and tax advisors as to the implications of any
sales. Neither NL nor Kronos is making any recommendation on the purchase,
retention or sale of shares of NL common stock or Kronos common stock. If
you do decide to buy or sell any shares of NL or Kronos common stock, you
should make sure your broker, bank or other nominee understands whether you
want to buy or sell NL common stock, Kronos common stock or both.
Q: What is likely to be the initial trading price of Kronos common stock?
A: Prior to the distribution, there has been no trading market for Kronos
common stock and, as a result, it is difficult to predict the prices at
which Kronos common stock might trade. After the distribution, NL, Tremont
and Valhi will own a total of approximately 92.5% of the outstanding shares
of Kronos common stock and other stockholders will own approximately 7.5%
of the outstanding Kronos shares. Kronos expects that its common stock will
trade on the New York Stock Exchange. Neither NL nor Kronos can predict the
extent to which investors' interest will lead to a liquid trading market or
whether the market price of Kronos common stock will be volatile. The
combined trading prices of Kronos common stock and NL common stock after
the distribution may be less than, equal to or greater than the current
trading price of NL common stock. The market price of Kronos common stock
could fluctuate significantly for many reasons, including in response to
the risk factors listed in this information statement beginning on page 8
or for reasons unrelated to Kronos' specific performance. See "The
Distribution--Reasons for the Distribution" and "Risk Factors--Risks
Relating to the Distribution--There has been no prior market for Kronos
common stock, and it is difficult to predict the prices at which Kronos
common stock might trade."
Q: How will NL and Kronos be related after the distribution?
A: Immediately following the distribution, NL will own approximately 51.1% of
Kronos common stock and Valhi and Tremont will own a total of approximately
41.4% of Kronos common stock. In addition, a majority of the members of
Kronos' Board of Directors will also serve on NL's Board of Directors. In
connection with the distribution, Kronos will seek to identify and elect
one or more additional or substitute non-employee directors prior to the
distribution date. Kronos will also have the $200 million Term Note
outstanding to NL. See "Relationships Among NL, Kronos and Their Affiliates
After the Distribution."
Q: What are the conditions to the distribution becoming effective?
A: The completion of the distribution depends on the satisfaction of the
following conditions:
o the SEC has declared Kronos' registration statement on Form 10
effective, and there has been no suspension, withdrawal or stop-order
in effect with respect thereto and no proceeding for that purpose has
been instituted by the SEC;
o the New York Stock Exchange has approved the listing of the Kronos
common stock, subject to official notice of issuance;
o the actions and filings with regard to state securities and blue sky
laws of the United States (and any comparable law under any foreign
jurisdiction) have been taken and, where applicable, have become
effective or accepted;
o there has been no order, injunction or decree issued by any court or
agency of competent jurisdiction or other legal constraint or
prohibition preventing the consummation of the transactions
contemplated by the distribution agreement in effect;
o all material consents and governmental approvals necessary to
consummate the transactions contemplated by the distribution agreement
have been obtained and are in full force and effect;
o the NL Board of Directors is satisfied that the distribution is lawful
under applicable state and federal law;
o the NL Board of Directors has approved the distribution and not
abandoned or revoked the distribution at any time before the
completion of the distribution;
o Kronos' amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws,
substantially as filed as exhibits to the Form 10 and described in
this information statement, are in effect;
o the various ancillary agreements described in this information
statement have been executed and delivered by the parties thereto,
including:
o the Tax Sharing Agreement among Contran, Valhi and Kronos; and
o the Intercorporate Services Agreement between NL and Kronos, as
amended;
o no other events or developments have occurred subsequent to the date
of the distribution agreement such that, in the judgment of NL, would
result in the distribution having an adverse effect on NL or on the
shareholders of NL; and
o the distribution agreement has not been terminated.
Q: Can NL decide not to complete the distribution?
A: Yes. NL may cancel the distribution for any reason at any time before it is
completed.
Q: Will I be taxed on the distribution under U.S. federal income tax laws?
A: Yes. NL shareholders who receive shares of Kronos common stock in the
distribution will receive a taxable dividend in an amount equal to the fair
market value of Kronos common stock received. For NL shareholders that are
not corporations, this amount will generally be taxable at favorable
dividend rates under recently enacted legislation. For shareholders that
are corporations, the distribution will be subject to the corporate
dividends received deduction but may result in a basis reduction to such
shareholder's NL stock and/or gain recognition. Each NL shareholder who
receives cash in lieu of a fractional Kronos share will be required to
recognize a short-term gain or loss equal to the difference between the
cash so received and the portion of the tax basis in Kronos common stock
that is allocable to the fractional share. You should consult your tax
advisor as to the particular tax consequences to you of the dividend. You
should also review the discussion under "The Distribution--Material U.S.
Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution" that begins on page 19
of this information statement.
Q: Will NL or Kronos be taxed on the distribution under U.S. federal income
tax laws?
A: Yes. NL will be required to recognize a taxable gain equal to the
difference between the fair market value of the shares of Kronos common
stock distributed at the time of the distribution and NL's adjusted tax
basis in such stock, which tax basis is expected to be nominal at the time
of the distribution. NL currently intends to defer payment of the income
tax owed on such taxable gain, and instead NL currently intends to offset
against such payment the amount of any future income tax attributes. It is
anticipated that such future income tax attributes would eventually offset
the amount otherwise payable. There are no direct or indirect corporate tax
consequences to Kronos as a result of the distribution. You should also
review the discussion under "The Distribution--Material U.S. Federal Income
Tax Consequences of the Distribution."
Q: Will Contran still have voting control over, and will Harold C. Simmons
still be deemed to control, Kronos following the distribution?
A: Yes. As of the date of this information statement:
o Contran owned, directly or through subsidiaries, approximately 90% of
Valhi's outstanding common stock;
o Valhi and Tremont owned a total of approximately 85% of NL's
outstanding common stock;
o Valhi owned 100% of Tremont's outstanding membership interests; and
o NL owned 100% of Kronos' outstanding common stock.
Substantially all of Contran's outstanding voting stock is held by
trusts established for the benefit of certain children and
grandchildren of Harold C. Simmons, of which Mr. Simmons is sole
trustee. Mr. Simmons is the Chairman of the Board of each of Contran,
Valhi and Tremont, the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of NL and, as of the distribution date, is anticipated to be
the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Kronos, and
may be deemed to control each such company.
After the distribution is completed, we expect that:
o Contran's ownership in Valhi will remain at 90%;
o Valhi's and Tremont's aggregate ownership in NL will remain at 85%;
and
o Valhi and Tremont will own a total of 41.4% of Kronos and NL will own
51.1% of Kronos.
Therefore, after the distribution is complete, Contran will still have
voting control over, and Mr. Simmons will still be deemed to control,
Kronos. Please read "Principal Stockholders" beginning on page 59 of
this information statement.
Q: Who is acting as the distribution agent?
A: EquiServe Trust Co., N.A.
P.O. Box 43069
Providence, Rhode Island 02940-3069
Q: Where can NL shareholders get more information?
A: You may direct questions to Gregory M. Swalwell, Vice President, Finance,
NL Industries, Inc., Three Lincoln Centre, 5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700,
Dallas, Texas 75240-2697, telephone number (972) 233-1700, or you may
contact the distribution agent for the distribution at ______________.
RISK FACTORS
You should carefully consider each of the following risks, which Kronos
believes are the principal risks that it faces, and all of the other information
in this information statement. Some of the following risks relate to the
distribution of Kronos common stock to NL shareholders, including the impact of
such distribution on NL. Other risks relate to Kronos' business, the securities
markets and ownership of Kronos common stock. Kronos' business may also be
adversely affected by risks and uncertainties not presently known to Kronos or
that Kronos currently believes are immaterial. If any of the following risks and
uncertainties develop into actual events, this could have a material adverse
effect on Kronos' business, financial condition or results of operations. If
this occurs, the trading price of Kronos common stock could decline, and you may
lose all or part of your investment in Kronos, NL or both companies.
Risks Relating to the Distribution
Kronos' historical financial information may not be indicative of Kronos'
future performance.
Kronos' historical financial information included in this information
statement may not be indicative of its future performance and does not
necessarily reflect Kronos' financial position, results of operations and cash
flows during each of the periods presented if Kronos had outstanding publicly
traded equity securities. If Kronos had outstanding publicly traded equity
securities during all of 2002, Kronos estimates that its total expenses would
have been approximately $600,000 to $800,000 higher than those reflected in its
historical consolidated financial statements. The increase in expenses includes,
without limitation, increased public company compliance costs, audit and legal
expenses and accounting and payroll costs. The foregoing estimate of higher
expenses is not necessarily an accurate measure of what Kronos' expenses would
have been in 2002 or will be in the future. Kronos' actual expenses could be
higher or lower. The costs that Kronos actually incurs in the future will depend
on the market for these services when they are actually purchased and the size
and nature of Kronos' future operations. The financial information included in
this information statement does not reflect any changes that may occur in
Kronos' financial condition and operations as a result of the distribution.
There has been no prior market for Kronos common stock, and it is difficult
to predict the prices at which Kronos common stock might trade.
Prior to the distribution, there has been no trading market for Kronos
common stock. Immediately after the distribution, NL, Tremont and Valhi will own
a total of approximately 92.5% of the outstanding shares of Kronos common stock
and the other stockholders will own approximately 7.5% of the outstanding Kronos
shares. Kronos expects that its common stock will trade on the New York Stock
Exchange. Neither NL nor Kronos can predict the extent to which investors'
interest will lead to a liquid trading market or whether the market price of
Kronos common stock will be volatile. While it is expected that a limited market
for Kronos common stock, commonly known as a "when issued" trading market, will
develop on or shortly before the record date for the distribution, until Kronos
common stock is fully distributed and an orderly trading market develops, the
prices at which trading in Kronos common stock occurs may fluctuate
significantly. The term "when-issued" means that shares can be traded prior to
the time that certificates are actually available or issued. Even though
when-issued trading may develop, none of these trades will settle prior to the
effective date of the distribution. See "The Distribution--Listing and Trading
of Kronos Common Stock." Neither NL nor Kronos can provide any assurance as to
an appropriate value or initial trading price for Kronos common stock.
Determining the proper price of any equity security is very subjective and
different investors will have different opinions regarding price and will apply
varying pricing methodologies. The combined trading prices of Kronos common
stock and NL common stock after the distribution may be less than, equal to or
greater than the current trading price of NL common stock. The prices at which
shares of Kronos common stock trade will be determined based on the composite of
pricing expectations of all market participants and may be influenced by many
factors, including, among others, Kronos' performance and prospects, quarter to
quarter variations in Kronos' actual or anticipated financial results or those
of other companies in the industries or the markets that Kronos serves, investor
perception of Kronos and the TiO2 industry, the depth and liquidity of the
market for Kronos common stock, Kronos' business and the industry in which it
operates, Kronos' dividend policy, general financial and other market
conditions, domestic and international economic conditions, and the impact of
factors described in this "Risk Factors" section. In addition, the stock market
in general has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that have
affected the market price of many stocks that have often been unrelated or
disproportionate to the operating performance of these companies. See "The
Distribution--Reasons for the Distribution" and "--Listing and Trading of Kronos
Common Stock."
The trading price of NL common stock will likely decline after the
distribution.
After the distribution, NL common stock will continue to be listed for
trading on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "NL." As a result of the
distribution, absent other action, the trading price of NL common stock
immediately following the distribution will likely be lower than the trading
price of NL common stock immediately prior to the distribution. The prices at
which shares of NL common stock will trade after the distribution may be
influenced by many factors, including, among others, NL's performance and
prospects, the success of its diversification efforts, quarter to quarter
variations in NL's actual or anticipated future results or those of other
companies in the industries or markets that NL serves, investor perceptions of
NL and the TiO2 industry, the depth and liquidity of the market for NL's common
stock, NL's business and the industry in which it operates, NL's dividend
policy, general financial and other market conditions, domestic and
international conditions and other factors described in NL's filings with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC").
Significant sales of Kronos common stock following the distribution, or the
perception that such sales might occur, could depress the market price of Kronos
common stock.
Except for shares of Kronos common stock held by Kronos' affiliates, all of
the shares of Kronos common stock distributed to NL shareholders will be
eligible for immediate resale in the public market. Any sale of significant
amounts of Kronos shares in the public market as a percentage of the total
number of outstanding shares of Kronos common stock held by non-affiliates, or
the perception that such sales might occur, whether as a result of the
distribution or otherwise, could depress the market price of Kronos common
stock. Neither NL nor Kronos is able to predict whether significant amounts of
Kronos common stock will be sold in the open market following the distribution.
See "The Distribution--Listing and Trading of Kronos Common Stock."
Various agreements relating to the distribution contain indemnification and
payment obligations for NL and Kronos that neither party may be able to satisfy,
which could result in increased expenses and liabilities for NL and Kronos.
The distribution agreement between Kronos and NL and the tax sharing
agreement among Contran, Valhi and Kronos allocate responsibility among the
parties to the agreements for various liabilities and obligations. The
distribution agreement provides that each party will indemnify the other against
claims arising out of the distribution agreement and claims arising out of their
respective businesses before and after the distribution. The tax sharing
agreement provides that each party will indemnify the others with respect to
certain taxes attributable to their respective businesses arising before or
after the distribution. In addition, under the existing tax sharing agreements
between NL and Valhi and between NL and Kronos, each party has agreed to
continue to indemnify the other with respect to the taxes attributable to their
respective businesses, whether arising before or after the distribution.
However, the availability of such indemnities will depend upon the future
financial strength of NL, Contran, Valhi and Kronos. NL, Contran, Valhi or
Kronos may not be in a financial position to fund such indemnities if they
should arise, which could result in increased expenses and liabilities for one
or any of them. See "Relationships Among NL, Kronos and Their Affiliates After
the Distribution."
Some provisions may discourage a third party from acquiring control of
Kronos.
It could be difficult for a potential bidder to acquire Kronos because NL,
Tremont and Valhi together will own approximately 92.5% of Kronos common stock
after the distribution. In addition, Kronos' amended and restated certificate of
incorporation and bylaws contain provisions that may discourage takeover
attempts. In particular, these documents permit Kronos' Board of Directors to
issue, without stockholder approval, preferred stock with such terms as the
Board may determine. The ownership of Kronos common stock by its affiliates and
these provisions are likely to increase the cost or difficulty for a third party
to acquire control of Kronos or may discourage acquisition bids altogether. See
"Principal Stockholders" and "Description of Capital Stock--Provisions That May
Have an Anti-Takeover Effect."
Risks Related to Kronos' Business
Demand for Kronos' products is cyclical and Kronos may experience prolonged
depressed market conditions for its products, which may adversely affect its
financial condition and results of operations.
Substantially all of Kronos' revenue is attributable to sales of TiO2, the
price of which has been historically cyclical and sensitive to relative changes
in supply and demand and general market and economic conditions. Historically,
the market for TiO2 has experienced alternating periods of tight supply, causing
prices and profit margins to increase, followed by periods of oversupply and
declining prices and profit margins. Kronos cannot guarantee that future growth
in demand for its products will be sufficient to alleviate any existing or
future cyclical changes in demand or that such conditions will not be sustained
or further aggravated by anticipated or unanticipated changes in economic
conditions, capacity additions or other events.
Kronos sells its products in a mature and highly competitive industry and
faces price pressure in the markets in which it operates.
The global markets in which Kronos operates its business are highly
competitive. Competition is based on a number of factors, such as price, product
quality and service. Some of Kronos' competitors may be able to drive down
prices for Kronos' products because they have costs that are lower than Kronos'.
In addition, some of Kronos' competitors' financial, technological and other
resources may be greater than Kronos', and such competitors may be better able
to withstand changes in market conditions. Kronos' competitors may be able to
respond more quickly than Kronos can to new or emerging technologies and changes
in customer requirements. Further, consolidation of Kronos' competitors or
customers in any of the industries in which Kronos competes may have an adverse
effect on Kronos. The occurrence of any of these events could have a material
adverse effect on Kronos' business, financial condition and results of
operations or cash flows.
Kronos is subject to many environmental and safety regulations that may
result in unanticipated costs or liabilities.
Kronos is subject to extensive laws, regulations, rules and ordinances
relating to pollution, the protection of the environment and the use or cleanup
of hazardous substances and wastes. Kronos may incur substantial costs,
including fines, damages and criminal penalties or civil sanctions, or
experience interruptions in its operations for actual or alleged violations or
compliance requirements arising under environmental laws. Kronos' operations
could result in violations under environmental laws, including spills or other
releases of hazardous substances to the environment. Some of Kronos' operating
facilities are in densely populated urban areas or in industrial areas adjacent
to other operating facilities. In the event of a catastrophic incident, Kronos
could incur material costs as a result of addressing such an event and in
implementing measures to prevent such incidents. Given the nature of Kronos'
business, violations of environmental laws may result in restrictions imposed on
Kronos' operating activities, substantial fines, penalties, damages or other
costs, including as a result of private litigation, any of which could have a
material adverse effect on Kronos' business, financial condition, results of
operations or cash flows.
In addition, Kronos could incur significant expenditures to comply with
existing or future environmental laws. Costs relating to environmental matters
will be subject to evolving regulatory requirements and will depend on the
timing of promulgation and enforcement of specific standards that impose
requirements on Kronos' operations. Kronos cannot, therefore, assure you that
costs beyond those currently anticipated will not be required under existing and
future environmental laws.
Kronos has a limited number of suppliers for some of its raw materials,
which could negatively affect it.
Kronos has a limited number of suppliers for some of its raw materials. The
number of sources for, and availability of, certain raw materials is specific to
the particular geographical region in which a facility is located. In addition,
in 2002, Kronos purchased titanium-bearing ores from three suppliers under
multiple-year agreements. If one of these suppliers were unable to meet its
obligations under present supply arrangements, Kronos could suffer reduced
supplies or incur increased prices for its raw materials.
NL and its affiliates may have conflicts of interest with Kronos, and these
conflicts could adversely affect Kronos' business.
For so long as NL and its affiliates retain their direct and indirect
ownership interests in Kronos, conflicts of interest could arise with respect to
transactions involving business dealings between them, including potential
acquisitions of business or properties, the issuance of additional securities,
Kronos' payment of dividends and other matters.
Kronos could be adversely affected if NL suffers adverse consequences from
environmental and other claims.
Kronos is currently wholly-owned by NL, and after the distribution will be
owned approximately 51.1% by NL. As disclosed in NL's filings with the SEC, NL
is subject to legacy environmental and other liabilities relating to its
ownership interests in certain discontinued manufacturing and mining operations
over the past century. NL and several other companies also have been subject to
claims under various theories relating to alleged damage caused by the
manufacture and sale in the United States of lead pigments used in the
manufacture of paint decades ago. To NL's knowledge, none of the lead pigment
claims have resulted in a judgment or settlement in favor of any claimant since
these claims first arose approximately seventeen years ago. The costs and
expenses relating to the defense of these claims and the liability accrual
provision for legacy environmental and other liabilities have been considered in
the structuring of the distribution and the recapitalization of Kronos. Neither
Kronos nor its subsidiaries have ever been subject to any such claim, and NL
does not believe that there is any basis for the assertion of any such claim
against Kronos. Nevertheless, judgments against NL could have adverse
consequences for Kronos. Such events could impose economic hardships on NL,
which in turn could make future financings, including bank borrowings, more
difficult for Kronos and its subsidiaries and also could adversely affect
Kronos' customers' perceptions of Kronos as an affiliate of NL. In addition,
judgments against NL might force NL to divest its remaining equity ownership of
Kronos to raise cash, which could result in a change of control of Kronos or
depress the market price of Kronos common stock.
Terrorist or other attacks or acts of war may adversely affect the markets
in which Kronos operates and Kronos' operations and profitability.
On September 11, 2001, the United States was the target of terrorist
attacks of unprecedented scope. These attacks caused major instability in the
U.S. and other financial markets. Leaders of the U.S. government have taken
actions to actively pursue those behind the attacks of terrorism and initiated
broader acts of war. These attacks and responses and any further response may
lead to further armed hostilities or acts of terrorism in the United States or
elsewhere, and such developments may cause further instability in financial
markets. In addition, further armed hostilities and acts of terrorism may
directly impact Kronos' or its customers' physical facilities and operations.
Furthermore, current and future developments in this regard may result in
reduced demand from Kronos' customers for Kronos' products or disruption of
supplies of raw materials. These developments may subject Kronos' operations to
increased risks and, depending on their magnitude, could have a material adverse
effect on Kronos' business and the market price of its common stock.
Kronos' business may be adversely affected by international operations and
fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
Kronos conducts a significant portion of its business in several
jurisdictions outside of the United States and is subject to risks normally
associated with international operations. These risks include the impact of such
operations on the prices that Kronos receives for its products and the need to
convert currencies that Kronos may receive for some of its products into
currencies required to pay some of its debt, or into currencies in which Kronos
purchases certain raw materials or pays for certain services, all of which could
result in a gain or loss depending on fluctuations in exchange rates. Other
risks of international operations include trade barriers, tariffs, exchange
controls, national and regional labor strikes, social and political risks,
general economic risks, required compliance with a variety of foreign laws,
including tax laws, and the difficulty in enforcing agreements and collecting
receivables through foreign legal systems.
If Kronos' patents are declared invalid or its trade secrets become known
to competitors, Kronos' and NL's ability to compete may be adversely affected.
Protection of Kronos' proprietary processes, apparatuses and other
technology is important to its business. Consequently, Kronos relies on judicial
enforcement for protection of its patents, and there can be no assurance that
any of Kronos' patents will not be challenged, invalidated, circumvented or
rendered unenforceable. Furthermore, if any pending patent application filed by
Kronos does not result in an issued patent, or if patents are issued to Kronos,
but such patents do not provide meaningful protection of Kronos' intellectual
property, then the use of any such intellectual property by Kronos' competitors
could have a material adverse effect on Kronos' business, financial condition,
results of operations or cash flows. Additionally, Kronos' competitors or other
third parties may obtain patents that restrict or preclude Kronos' ability to
lawfully produce or sell its products in a competitive manner, which could have
a material adverse effect on Kronos' business, financial condition, results of
operations or cash flows.
Kronos also relies on unpatented proprietary know-how and continuing
technological innovation and other trade secrets to develop and maintain its
competitive position. Although it is Kronos' practice to enter into
confidentiality agreements to protect its intellectual property, because these
confidentiality agreements may be breached, such agreements may not provide
sufficient protection for Kronos' trade secrets or proprietary know-how, or
adequate remedies may not be available in the event of an unauthorized use or
disclosure of such trade secrets and know-how. In addition, others could obtain
knowledge of such trade secrets through independent development or other access
by legal means. The failure of Kronos' patents or confidentiality agreements to
protect its processes, apparatuses, technology, trade secrets or proprietary
know-how could have a material adverse effect on Kronos' business, financial
condition, results of operations or cash flows. Because NL has a perpetual
license to use Kronos' proprietary processes, apparatuses and other technology
in its business, any failure by Kronos to protect its processes, apparatuses,
technology, trade secrets or proprietary know-how could have a material adverse
effect on NL's business, financial condition, results of operations or cash
flows.
Kronos' leverage may impair its financial condition.
Kronos currently has, and after the distribution will continue to have, a
significant amount of debt. As of March 31, 2003, after giving effect to Kronos'
$200 million dividend to NL in the form of the Term Note, Kronos' total
consolidated debt would be $603 million, consisting of the following:
o (euro)285 million ($306 million) of the KII Senior Notes;
o (euro)30 million and NOK 80 million (an aggregate of $43 million)
outstanding under KII's subsidiaries' revolving credit facility;
o $200 million under the Term Note payable to NL, the terms of which are
described below under "Relationships Among NL, Kronos and Their
Affiliates After the Distribution--Distribution Agreement--Term Note";
o $53 million of other indebtedness owed to a subsidiary of NL (which
was fully repaid as of June 30, 2003); and
o $1 million of other debt.
Subject to specified limitations, the indenture governing the KII Senior
Notes permits KII and its subsidiaries to incur additional debt. In addition, as
of March 31, 2003, KII's subsidiaries had unused borrowing availability of the
equivalent of approximately $41 million ((euro)38 million) under their credit
facility, and certain of Kronos' U.S. subsidiaries had approximately $40 million
available under their credit facility.
Kronos' current and future level of debt could have important consequences
to you, including:
o increasing Kronos' vulnerability to adverse general economic and
industry conditions;
o requiring that a substantial portion of Kronos' cash flow from
operations be used for the payment of interest on its debt, including
the Term Note due to NL, therefore reducing its ability to use its
cash flow to fund working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions,
dividends and general corporate requirements;
o limiting Kronos' ability to obtain additional financing to fund future
working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions and general
corporate requirements;
o limiting Kronos' flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes
in its business and the industry in which it operates; and
o placing Kronos at a competitive disadvantage relative to other less
leveraged competitors.
Kronos' ability to generate sufficient cash to meet its debt service and
operating needs depends on many factors, some of which are beyond Kronos'
control.
Kronos' ability to make payments on and refinance its debt and to fund
planned capital expenditures depends on its future ability to generate cash
flow. To some extent, this ability is subject to general economic, financial,
competitive, legislative and regulatory and other factors that are beyond
Kronos' control. In addition, Kronos' ability to borrow funds under its
subsidiaries' credit facility in the future will depend on these subsidiaries'
ability to maintain specified financial ratios and satisfy certain financial
covenants contained in the credit agreement for Kronos' subsidiaries' credit
facility. Kronos cannot assure you that its business will generate cash flow
from operations or that it will have adequate access to credit facilities in
amounts sufficient to enable Kronos to pay its debt or to fund other liquidity
needs. As a result, Kronos may need to refinance all or a portion of its debt
before maturity, and it is likely that Kronos will need to refinance all or a
portion of its debt on maturity. KII's subsidiaries' three-year credit facility
and Kronos' U.S. subsidiaries' three-year credit facility both mature in 2005.
Kronos cannot assure you that it will be able to refinance any of its debt on
favorable terms, if at all. Any inability to generate sufficient cash flow or
refinance Kronos' debt on favorable terms could have a material adverse effect
on its financial condition.
Various factors may hinder the declaration and payment of dividends
following the distribution.
The payment of dividends is subject to the discretion of Kronos' Board of
Directors, and various factors may cause Kronos to determine not to pay
dividends. Such factors include Kronos' financial position, results of
operations, capital requirements and liquidity, any loan or other agreement
restrictions, governmental requirements and such other factors as Kronos' Board
of Directors may consider relevant. Kronos' assets consist primarily of
investments in its operating subsidiaries. Kronos' cash flow and its ability to
pay dividends depend upon cash dividends and distributions or other transfers
from its subsidiaries. In addition, any payment of dividends, distributions,
loans or advances by Kronos' subsidiaries to Kronos could be subject to
restrictions on or taxation of dividends or repatriation of earnings under
applicable local law, monetary transfer restrictions and foreign currency
exchange regulations in the jurisdictions in which Kronos' subsidiaries operate,
and any restrictions imposed by the current and future debt instruments of
Kronos' subsidiaries. Such payments to Kronos by its subsidiaries are contingent
upon its subsidiaries' earnings. See "Dividend Policy."
Covenant restrictions may limit Kronos' ability to operate its business.
Kronos and its subsidiaries are subject to obligations under various
financing arrangements that contain, among other things, covenants that may
restrict Kronos' ability to finance future operations or capital needs or to
engage in other business activities. These covenants include, among other
things, restrictions on Kronos' and its subsidiaries' ability to:
o borrow money, pay dividends or make distributions;
o purchase or redeem stock;
o make investments and extend credit;
o engage in transactions with affiliates;
o engage in sale-leaseback transactions;
o freely distribute the proceeds from certain asset sales;
o effect a consolidation or merger or sell, transfer, lease or otherwise
dispose of all or substantially all of its assets; and
o create liens on its assets.
In addition, these financing arrangements require Kronos' subsidiaries to
maintain specified financial ratios and satisfy certain financial tests, which
may require that action be taken to reduce debt or to act in a manner contrary
to Kronos' long-term business objectives. Events beyond Kronos' control,
including changes in general business and economic conditions, may affect
Kronos' ability to meet those financial ratios and satisfy certain financial
covenants. Kronos cannot assure you that it will meet those tests or that the
lenders will waive any failure to meet those tests. A breach of any of these
covenants would result in a default under one or more of these credit facilities
and any acceleration of debt obligations under the European subsidiaries' credit
facility may result in a default under the indenture governing the KII Senior
Notes. If an event of default under KII's subsidiaries' credit facility occurs,
the lenders could elect to declare all amounts outstanding thereunder, together
with accrued interest, to be immediately due and payable.
Members of Kronos' Board of Directors and executive management may have
conflicts of interest after the distribution due to their relationships with NL.
As of the distribution date, it is anticipated that a majority of the
members of NL's Board of Directors will also serve on Kronos' Board of
Directors. In connection with the distribution, Kronos will seek to identify and
elect one or more additional or substitute non-employee directors prior to the
distribution date. Certain executive officers of NL also serve as executive
officers of Kronos. See "Management." These circumstances could create potential
conflicts of interest when Kronos' directors and management are faced with
decisions that could have different implications for NL and Kronos. Examples of
these types of decisions might include the resolution of disputes arising out of
the agreements governing the relationship between NL and Kronos following the
distribution or the pursuit of specific business opportunities available to
Kronos or NL. Also, the appearance of conflicts, even if such conflicts do not
materialize, might adversely affect the public's perception of Kronos following
the distribution. See "Relationships Among NL, Kronos and Their Affiliates After
the Distribution."
SPECIAL NOTE ABOUT FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
The statements contained in this information statement that are not
historical facts, including, but not limited to, statements found in the section
entitled "Risk Factors," are forward-looking statements that represent
management's beliefs and assumptions based on currently available information.
Forward-looking statements include the information concerning Kronos' possible
or assumed future results of operations, business strategies, need for
financing, competitive position, potential growth opportunities, potential
operating performance improvements, ability to retain and recruit personnel,
benefits resulting from Kronos' distribution from NL, the effects of competition
and the effects of future legislation or regulations. Forward-looking statements
include all statements that are not historical facts and can be identified by
the use of forward-looking terminology such as the words "believes," "intends,"
"may," "will," "should," "anticipates," "expects," "could," or comparable
terminology or by discussions of strategy or trends. Although Kronos believes
that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are
reasonable, it cannot give any assurances that these expectations will prove to
be correct. Such statements by their nature involve risks and uncertainties that
could significantly affect expected results, and actual future results could
differ materially from those described in such forward-looking statements.
Among the factors that could cause actual future results to differ
materially are the risks and uncertainties discussed in this information
statement and those described from time to time in NL's other filings with the
SEC. While it is not possible to identify all factors, Kronos continues to face
many risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the cyclicality of
the titanium dioxide industry, global economic and political conditions, global
productive capacity, customer inventory levels, changes in product pricing,
changes in product costing, changes in foreign currency exchange rates,
competitive technology positions, operating interruptions (including, but not
limited to, labor disputes, leaks, fires, explosions, unscheduled downtime,
transportation interruptions, war and terrorist activities), the ultimate
outcome of NL's pending or possible future lead pigment litigation and
legislative developments related to the lead pigment litigation, the outcome of
other litigation and tax controversies, and other risks and uncertainties
included in NL's filings with the SEC. Should one or more of these risks
materialize (or the consequences of such a development worsen), or should the
underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results could differ materially
from those expected. NL and Kronos disclaim any intention or obligation to
update publicly or revise such statements whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise.
The risk factors discussed in "Risk Factors" could cause Kronos' results to
differ materially from those expressed in forward-looking statements. There may
also be other risks and uncertainties that Kronos is unable to predict at this
time or that Kronos does not now expect to have a material adverse impact on its
business.
THE DISTRIBUTION
Reasons for the Distribution
The Board of Directors of NL has determined that the distribution is in the
best interests of NL and its shareholders. Through the recapitalization of
Kronos and distribution of approximately 48.9% of the outstanding shares of
Kronos common stock, NL believes significant benefits will be achieved.
First, it is believed that Kronos will be recognized in the TiO2 industry
and the financial markets as an entity whose business operations are distinct
from NL. Investors, suppliers, customers and employees worldwide will be able to
view and evaluate the Kronos business independently from NL and its historical
operations, and acquire a direct equity ownership interest in Kronos. The
separation and resulting public company recognition should enhance the ability
of Kronos to capitalize on the Kronos brand name and to develop separate
business relationships and strategies distinct from operating as a wholly-owned
subsidiary of NL, which is expected to enhance Kronos' global competitive
position.
Second, NL will retain a significant equity ownership interest in Kronos
and will continue to benefit from the affiliate group holding a controlling
interest in a public company serving the global TiO2 market. As Kronos continues
to grow and develop its TiO2 business separate from NL, the potential long-term
investment return to NL and its shareholders is anticipated to increase. In
2002, KII issued (euro)285 million aggregate principal amount of the KII Senior
Notes, primarily in the European financial market. Proceeds of such financing
were used in part to repay intercompany debt owed by KII to Kronos, which in
turn was used to repay intercompany debt owed by Kronos to NL. NL used a portion
of such proceeds to repay all of its third party long-term indebtedness with the
balance used for general corporate purposes. As demonstrated by KII's successful
public debt offering in 2002, and the continuing market interest in such debt,
as well as other recent financing arrangements entered into by KII and its
subsidiaries, it is believed that the equity of Kronos will also be attractive
to the financial markets. It is further believed that with a separate public
trading market, the Kronos common stock retained by NL will provide significant
increased value to NL as a result of the anticipated favorable valuation of
Kronos in the financial markets. NL over time could sell a portion of its
holdings of Kronos common stock in the established trading market or more
readily use such stock as collateral for future credit arrangements if such
additional liquidity is determined to be beneficial to NL in the future.
Third, NL believes that the distribution will provide it with greater
opportunity for diversification of its holdings and business interests. Through
its future diversification efforts, NL may be able to provide potentially more
consistent and stable financial performance compared to its current holdings. In
order to accomplish a diversification of its holdings, it is believed NL will
require additional sources of liquidity. As a result of the 2002 public debt
offering by KII, and repayment of intercompany debts, NL achieved additional
liquidity while discharging all of its long-term debt obligations. Through the
recapitalization of Kronos, NL will receive significant additional consideration
through the payment of a dividend in the form of the Term Note, which will
provide NL with additional financial resources and liquidity. The results of the
2002 financing activities and the dividend of the Term Note effectively converts
a portion of NL's investment in Kronos into a more liquid form (with respect to
the proceeds received from the 2002 financing activities) and into a more senior
position (with respect to the Term Note) that will also provide additional
liquidity to NL. Additionally, the distribution of Kronos common stock should
enhance NL's ability to monetize a portion of its remaining holdings of Kronos
common stock through potential future sales of common equity or the use of
Kronos common stock as collateral for any future credit arrangements. Upon the
completion of the distribution, NL will explore diversification opportunities
beyond the scope of its existing business, which should reduce the risks
inherent in continuing to conduct its operations primarily in a single highly
competitive industry that is capital intensive and subject to significant
historically cyclical demand and pricing variations.
Prior to the distribution, there has been no trading market for Kronos
common stock. After the distribution, NL, Tremont and Valhi will own a total of
approximately 92.5% of the outstanding shares of Kronos common stock and the
other stockholders will own approximately 7.5% of the outstanding Kronos shares.
Kronos expects that its common stock will trade on the New York Stock Exchange.
Neither NL nor Kronos can predict the extent to which investors' interest will
lead to a liquid trading market or whether the market price of Kronos common
stock will be volatile or provide any assurance as to an appropriate value or
initial trading price for Kronos common stock. Determining the proper price of
any equity security is very subjective and different investors will have
different opinions regarding price and will apply varying pricing methodologies.
The combined trading prices of Kronos common stock and NL common stock after the
distribution may be less than, equal to or greater than the current trading
price of NL common stock. The prices at which shares of Kronos common stock
trade will be determined based on the composite of pricing expectations of all
market participants and may be influenced by many factors, including, among
others, Kronos' performance and prospects, quarter to quarter variations in
Kronos' actual or anticipated financial results or those of other companies in
the industries or the markets that Kronos serves, investor perception of Kronos
and the TiO2 industry, the depth and liquidity of the market for Kronos common
stock, Kronos' business and the industry in which it operates, Kronos' dividend
policy, general financial and other market conditions, domestic and
international economic conditions, and the impact of factors described in the
"Risk Factors" section of this information statement. In addition, the stock
market in general has experienced extreme price and volume fluctuations that
have affected the market price of many stocks and that have often been unrelated
or disproportionate to the operating performance of these companies. See "Risk
Factors--Risks Relating to the Distribution--There has been no prior market for
Kronos common stock, and it is difficult to predict the prices at which Kronos
common stock might trade" and " The Distribution--Listing and Trading of Kronos
Common Stock."
Description of the Distribution
The following diagram illustrates the current ownership structure of Kronos
(ownership is 100% unless otherwise noted).
[A chart showing (i) Valhi's 63.2% ownership of NL and 100% ownership of
Tremont, (ii) Tremont's 21.4% ownership of NL, (iii) other shareholders' 15.4%
ownership of NL, (iv) NL's 100% ownership of Kronos and (v) Kronos' 100%
ownership of its subsidiaries.]
The distribution will be accomplished by NL issuing approximately 23.85
million shares of Kronos common stock, representing approximately 48.9% of the
outstanding shares of Kronos common stock, to its shareholders. The following
diagram illustrates the expected effect of the distribution on the ownership
structure of Kronos (ownership is 100% unless otherwise noted).
[A chart showing (i) Valhi's 63.2% ownership of NL, 30.9% ownership of Kronos
and 100% ownership of Tremont, (ii) Tremont's 21.4% ownership of NL and 10.5%
ownership of Kronos, (iii) NL's 51.1% ownership of Kronos, (iv) other
shareholders' 15.4% ownership of NL and 7.5% ownership of Kronos and (v) Kronos'
100% ownership of its subsidiaries.]
The following footnotes to the above 2 charts relate to certain of Kronos'
subsidiaries:
(a) Kronos conducts its European manufacturing and distribution
operations through KII, which conducts its manufacturing and
distribution operations through its principal subsidiaries,
Kronos Titan GmbH & Co. OHG ("Kronos Germany"), Kronos Europe
S.A./N.V. ("Kronos Belgium"), Kronos Norge A/S ("Kronos Norway"),
Kronos Limited ("Kronos UK"), Kronos Denmark ApS ("Kronos
Denmark") and Societe Industrielle Du Titane, S.A. ("Kronos
France").
(b) Kronos conducts its North American manufacturing and distribution
operations through its principal wholly-owned direct and indirect
subsidiaries, Kronos Louisiana, Inc. ("Kronos Louisiana"), Kronos
(US), Inc. ("Kronos USA") and Kronos Canada, Inc. ("Kronos
Canada").
(c) 6% of Kronos France is held by minority shareholders.
On _________, 2003, the Board of Directors of NL formally approved the
distribution. Each NL shareholder as of the close of business on __________,
2003, which is the record date for the distribution, will receive one share of
Kronos common stock for every two shares of NL common stock held as of the
record date. NL and Kronos expect that the distribution will take place on or
about _________, 2003, although completion of the distribution is contingent
upon the satisfaction of conditions described in the distribution agreement. See
"Relationships Among NL, Kronos and Their Affiliates After the Distribution."
In determining the structure and appropriateness of the distribution, the
NL Board, together with management, considered various legal and structural
considerations, including the financial position of Kronos and NL prior to and
after the distribution. The NL Board also considered the desirability for the
distribution initially to result in there being outstanding approximately the
same number of shares of Kronos common stock as the current number of
outstanding shares of NL common stock. The NL Board also considered standards of
the New York Stock Exchange as well as a desirable trading price for Kronos
common stock. Based on the estimated number of holders of NL common stock, the
NL Board concluded that a one-for-two distribution ratio should satisfy the
listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange.
As soon as practicable on or about the distribution date, NL will deliver
to the distribution agent, Equiserve Trust Co., N.A., certificates representing
the shares of Kronos common stock to be distributed to NL shareholders. The
distribution agent will then cause distributions in book-entry form to each
holder of NL common stock who holds such stock in book-entry form and will
deliver stock certificates to each holder of NL common stock that holds such
stock in certificate form. The shares of Kronos common stock are duly
authorized, validly issued, fully paid and nonassessable, and the holders of
these shares will not be entitled to preemptive rights. See "Description of
Capital Stock."
NL will not distribute any fractional shares of Kronos common stock as part
of the distribution. Instead, on or after the distribution date, the
distribution agent will aggregate all fractional shares, sell them on the open
market at prevailing market prices and distribute the aggregate proceeds less
applicable taxes and a pro rata portion of the aggregate brokerage commission
payable in connection with the sale of the fractional shares ratably to those NL
shareholders otherwise entitled to those fractional shares. See "--Material U.S.
Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution" for a discussion of the
United States federal income tax treatment of proceeds from fractional share
interests. The distribution agent will act in its sole discretion, without
influence from NL or Kronos, in effecting these sales. The distribution agent
will independently determine all aspects of the sales. Neither the distribution
agent nor the broker-dealers it uses are affiliates of NL or Kronos. None of NL,
Kronos or the distribution agent can guarantee any minimum sale price for the
fractional shares of Kronos common stock. Neither NL nor Kronos will pay any
interest on the proceeds from the sale of aggregated fractional shares. Neither
NL, Kronos nor any of their affiliates will receive any of the proceeds from the
sale of fractional shares.
No vote of NL shareholders is required or sought in connection with the
distribution, and NL shareholders will have no appraisal or dissenters' rights
in connection with the distribution.
No NL shareholder will be required to pay cash or other consideration for
any shares of Kronos common stock received in the distribution, or to surrender
or exchange shares of NL common stock.
Results of the Distribution
After the distribution, Kronos will be a separate public company, owned
approximately 92.5% in the aggregate by NL, Tremont and Valhi. As a result of
the distribution, Kronos expects to have approximately 6,000 holders of record
and approximately 48.8 million shares of Kronos common stock outstanding, based
on the number of NL record shareholders and the distribution ratio and the
number of outstanding shares of NL common stock as of the close of business on
__________, 2003. The actual number of shares of Kronos common stock to be
distributed will be determined as of the record date. The distribution will not
affect the number of outstanding shares of NL common stock or the rights of NL
shareholders.
Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Distribution
General
The following is a summary description of the material federal income tax
consequences of the distribution. This summary is not intended as a complete
description of all of the tax consequences of the distribution and does not
discuss tax consequences under the laws of state, local or foreign governments
or any other jurisdiction other than the federal income tax laws of the United
States. Moreover, the following discussion may not apply to particular
categories of holders subject to special tax treatment under the federal income
tax laws, including, without limitation, insurance companies, financial
institutions, broker-dealers, estates, trusts, tax-exempt organizations, real
estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies, non-United States
holders, or persons that will hold their shares of Kronos common stock as a
position in a straddle, as part of a synthetic security or hedge, or as part of
a conversion transaction or other integrated investment, other than a capital
asset. This summary does not include a description of any alternative minimum
tax consequences that may be applicable to the receipt of Kronos shares pursuant
to the distribution. This summary assumes that you hold your shares of Kronos
common stock as a capital asset within the meaning of section 1221 of the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, or the "Code." In this regard,
special rules not discussed in this summary may apply to some of NL's
shareholders.
The following discussion is based on currently existing provisions of the
Code, existing, proposed and temporary Treasury Department regulations
promulgated under the Code and current administrative rulings and court
decisions. All of the foregoing are subject to change, which may or may not be
retroactive, and any of these changes could affect the validity of the following
discussion.
Please consult your tax advisor as to the particular tax consequences to
you of the distribution described herein, including the applicability and effect
of any state, local or foreign tax laws, and the possible effects of changes in
applicable tax laws.
Consequences of the Distribution
Each shareholder of NL receiving shares of Kronos common stock in the
distribution generally will be treated as if the shareholder received a taxable
distribution in an amount equal to the fair market value of Kronos common stock
received. Since the amount of the distribution will not exceed NL's current and
accumulated earnings and profits, the distribution will be a dividend. The
taxation of the dividend to a NL shareholder will depend on whether the
shareholder is a corporation. If the shareholder is a corporation, such amount
will be taxable as ordinary income, subject to the corporate dividends received
deduction. However, for such shareholder, if the distribution is treated as an
"extraordinary dividend" pursuant to Code section 1059, then such shareholder
may be required to reduce its basis in its NL stock and/or recognize gain up to
the amount of the dividends received deduction claimed on the distribution. A
shareholder that is a corporation should consult its tax advisor to determine
whether the distribution will be treated as an extraordinary dividend to the
shareholder. If the shareholder is not a corporation, under recently enacted
legislation, such amount will generally be taxable at the more favorable
dividend rate (15% in most cases) if the shareholder has held its NL stock for
more than 60 days during the 120-day period beginning 60 days before the
ex-dividend date. Otherwise, such amount will be taxable as ordinary income. The
favorable dividend rate applies only with respect to dividends that the
non-corporate shareholder does not treat as investment income under section
163(d)(4)(B) of the Code.
Each shareholder's initial tax basis in the Kronos common stock received by
the shareholder will be equal to the fair market value of such stock at the time
of the distribution.
Each shareholder who receives cash as a result of the sale of fractional
shares of Kronos stock by the distribution agent will be treated as if such
fractional share had been received by the shareholder as part of the
distribution and then sold by the shareholder. Accordingly, the shareholder will
recognize short-term gain or loss equal to the difference between the cash so
received and the portion of the tax basis in Kronos stock that is allocable to
the fractional share.
NL will be required to recognize taxable gain or loss equal to the
difference between the fair market value of the Kronos common stock distributed
at the time of the distribution and NL's adjusted tax basis in such stock, which
tax basis is expected to be nominal at the time of the distribution. NL
currently intends to defer payment of the income tax owed on such taxable gain,
and instead NL currently intends to offset against such payment the amount of
any future income tax attributes. It is anticipated that such future income tax
attributes would eventually offset the amount otherwise payable. There are no
direct or indirect corporate tax consequences to Kronos as a result of the
distribution.
Back-Up Withholding Requirements
NL is required to withhold federal income tax at a rate of 30% with respect
to payments such as dividends, interest or proceeds from the sale of stock made
to (a) persons who do not have a social security number or taxpayer
identification number, (b) persons that the IRS has determined have a history of
evading federal income tax or (c) persons who have refused to furnish NL with
information sufficient to enable it to comply with its applicable federal income
tax information reporting obligations. Such withholding is known as back-up
withholding. Back-up withholding is not an additional tax and may be refunded
(or credited against the shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability, if
any), provided that required information is furnished to NL. United States
information reporting requirements and back-up withholding may apply to NL
shareholders and Kronos stockholders with respect to dividends paid on, and
proceeds from the taxable sale, exchange or other disposition of, NL or Kronos
common stock unless the holder:
o is a corporation or comes within certain other exempt categories, and, when
required, demonstrates these facts; or
o provides a correct taxpayer identification number, certifies that there has
been no loss of exemption from back-up withholding and otherwise complies
with applicable requirements of the back-up withholding rules.
You may be subject to penalties imposed by the IRS if you do not supply NL
with your correct taxpayer identification number. You should consult your tax
advisor as to your qualification for exemption from back-up withholding and the
procedure for obtaining such an exemption. If information-reporting requirements
apply to you, the amount of dividends paid with respect to your shares will be
reported annually to the IRS and to you.
Listing and Trading of Kronos Common Stock
There has been no public market for Kronos common stock. An active trading
market may not develop or be sustained in the future. However, Kronos expects
that a limited market for shares of Kronos common stock, commonly known as a
"when issued" trading market, will develop on or shortly before the record date
for the distribution. The term "when-issued" means that shares can be traded
prior to the time certificates are actually available or issued. Even though
when-issued trading may develop, none of these trades would settle prior to the
effective date of the distribution, and if the distribution does not occur, all
when-issued trading will be null and void. Kronos expects to apply to list its
common stock on the New York Stock Exchange under the trading symbol "____" and
believes that Kronos common stock will be acceptable to the New York Stock
Exchange for listing. Beginning on the first New York Stock Exchange trading day
after the distribution, Kronos expects that its common stock will trade on a
"regular" basis. The term "regular" refers to trading after a security has been
issued and typically involves a transaction that settles on the third full
business day following the date of a transaction.
Prior to the distribution, there has been no trading market for Kronos
common stock. After the distribution, NL, Tremont and Valhi will own a total of
approximately 92.5% of the outstanding shares of Kronos common stock and the
other stockholders will own approximately 7.5% of the outstanding Kronos shares.
Kronos expects that its common stock will trade on the New York Stock Exchange
and in the over-the-counter market in the United States. Neither NL nor Kronos
can predict the extent to which investors' interest will lead to a liquid
trading market or whether the market price of Kronos common stock will be
volatile. While it is expected that a limited market for Kronos common stock,
commonly known as a "when issued" trading market, will develop near the record
date, until Kronos common stock is fully distributed and an orderly trading
market develops, the prices at which trading in Kronos common stock occurs may
fluctuate significantly. Neither NL nor Kronos can provide any assurance as to
an appropriate value or initial trading price for Kronos common stock.
Determining the proper price of any equity security is very subjective and
different investors will have different opinions regarding price and will apply
varying pricing methodologies. The combined trading prices of Kronos common
stock and NL common stock after the distribution may be less than, equal to or
greater than the current trading price of NL common stock. The prices at which
shares of Kronos common stock trade will be determined based on the composite of
pricing expectations of all market participants and may be influenced by many
factors, including, among others, Kronos' performance and prospects, quarter to
quarter variations in Kronos' actual or anticipated financial results or those
of other companies in the industries or the markets that Kronos serves, investor
perception of Kronos and the TiO2 industry, the depth and liquidity of the
market for Kronos common stock, Kronos' business and the industry in which it
operates, Kronos' dividend policy, general financial and other market
conditions, domestic and international economic conditions, and the impact of
factors described in the "Risk Factors" section of this information statement.
In addition, the stock market in general has experienced extreme price and
volume fluctuations that have affected the market price of many stocks and that
have often been unrelated or disproportionate to the operating performance of
these companies. See "Risk Factors--There has been no prior market for Kronos
common stock, and it is difficult to predict the prices at which Kronos common
stock might trade."
A portion of the shares of Kronos common stock that will be distributed to
NL shareholders will be eligible for immediate resale. In transactions similar
to the distribution, it is not unusual for a significant redistribution of
shares to occur during the first few weeks or even months following completion
of the transaction because of the differing objectives and strategies of
investors who acquire shares of Kronos common stock in the transaction. Kronos
is not able to predict whether significant amounts of its common stock will be
sold in the open market following the distribution or what effect these sales
may have on prices at which Kronos common stock may trade. Any sale of
significant amounts of Kronos common stock in the public market as a percentage
of the total number of outstanding shares of Kronos common stock held by
non-affiliates, or the perception that such sales might occur, whether as a
result of the distribution or otherwise, could depress the market price of
Kronos common stock.
Shares of Kronos common stock received in the distribution by "affiliates"
(as defined under Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"Securities Act")) will not be freely transferable. Persons who can be
considered Kronos' affiliates after the distribution generally include
individuals or entities that directly, or indirectly through one or more
intermediaries, control, are controlled by, or are under common control with,
Kronos, and include some of Kronos' officers and directors. Affiliates of Kronos
may only sell common stock received in the distribution:
o under a registration statement that the SEC has declared effective under
the Securities Act; or
o under an exemption from registration under the Securities Act, such as the
exemption afforded by Rule 144, which limits sales by affiliates based on
the average four-week trading volume or 1% of the outstanding common stock.
NL expects that its common stock will meet the continued listing standards
of the New York Stock Exchange and that its common stock will continue to trade
on a regular basis under the symbol "NL" following the distribution. NL common
stock may also trade on a when-issued basis, reflecting an assumed
post-distribution value for NL common stock. When-issued trading in NL common
stock, if available, could last from on or about the record date through the
effective date of the distribution. If when-issued trading in NL common stock is
available, NL shareholders may trade their existing NL common stock prior to the
effective date of the distribution in either the when-issued market or in the
regular market for NL common stock. If a shareholder trades in the when-issued
market, it will have no obligation to transfer to a purchaser of NL common stock
the Kronos common stock such shareholder receives in the distribution. If a
shareholder trades in the regular market, the shares of NL common stock traded
after the record date will be accompanied by due bills representing the Kronos
common stock to be distributed in the distribution. If when-issued trading in NL
common stock is not available, the NL common stock will only trade in the
regular market during the period from the record date through the effective date
of the distribution.
If a when-issued market for NL common stock develops, an additional listing
for NL common stock will appear on the New York Stock Exchange. Differences may
exist between the combined value of when-issued Kronos common stock plus
when-issued NL common stock and the price of NL common stock during this period.
Until the market has fully analyzed the operations of NL without the operations
of Kronos, the prices at which NL common stock trades may fluctuate
significantly.
You should consider consulting your financial and tax advisors prior to
making any decision with respect to the purchase, retention or sale of shares of
NL common stock or Kronos common stock. Neither NL nor Kronos makes
recommendations on the purchase, retention or sale of your shares of NL common
stock or Kronos common stock.
RELATIONSHIPS AMONG NL, KRONOS AND THEIR AFFILIATES AFTER THE DISTRIBUTION
This section of the information statement summarizes certain material
agreements, including certain intercorporate services, indemnification, tax and
other matters, relating to the distribution between NL, Kronos and their
affiliates that will govern the ongoing relationships after the distribution.
Additional or modified agreements, arrangements and transactions may be entered
into among NL, Kronos and their affiliated entities after the distribution.
Kronos' business consists of the businesses previously conducted by the Kronos
subsidiary of NL. On an overall basis, Kronos' business will constitute
substantially the same business as that previously conducted by the Kronos
subsidiary of NL. You should also read the agreements, forms of which have been
filed as exhibits to the registration statement on Form 10 of which this
information statement forms a part.
Distribution Agreement
Principal Corporate Transactions and Procedures to Effect the Distribution
The distribution agreement provides that prior to or as of the distribution
date, the outstanding shares of Kronos common stock will be recapitalized so
that there will be 48.8 million shares of Kronos common stock outstanding.
Conditions to the Distribution
The distribution agreement provides that the following conditions must be
satisfied or waived before or as of the date of the distribution for the
distribution to occur:
o the SEC has declared Kronos' registration statement on Form 10 effective,
and there has been no suspension, withdrawal or stop-order in effect with
respect thereto and no proceeding for that purpose has been instituted by
the SEC;
o the New York Stock Exchange has approved the listing of the Kronos common
stock, subject to official notice of issuance;
o the actions and filings with regard to state securities and blue sky laws
of the United States (and any comparable law under any foreign
jurisdiction) have been taken and, where applicable, have become effective
or accepted;
o there has been no order, injunction or decree issued by any court or agency
of competent jurisdiction or other legal constraint or prohibition
preventing the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the
distribution agreement in effect;
o all material consents and governmental approvals necessary to consummate
the transactions contemplated by the distribution agreement have been
obtained and are in full force and effect;
o the NL Board of Directors is satisfied that the distribution is lawful
under applicable state and federal law;
o the NL Board of Directors has approved the distribution and not abandoned
or revoked the distribution at any time before the completion of the
distribution;
o Kronos' amended and restated certificate of incorporation and bylaws, as
filed as exhibits to the Form 10 and described in this information
statement, are in effect;
o the various ancillary agreements described in this information statement
have been executed and delivered by the parties thereto, including:
o the Tax Sharing Agreement among Contran, Valhi and Kronos; and
o the Intercorporate Services Agreement between NL and Kronos, as
amended;
o no other events or developments have occurred subsequent to the date of the
distribution agreement such that, in the judgment of NL, would result in
the distribution having an adverse effect on NL or on the shareholders of
NL; and
o the distribution agreement has not been terminated.
Mutual Releases and Cross-Indemnification
In the distribution agreement, effective as of the distribution date,
Kronos and NL have released and discharged each other and related parties from
all liabilities existing or arising from acts and events occurring or failing to
occur or alleged to have occurred or to have failed to occur and all conditions
existing or alleged to have existed on or before the distribution date, other
than, among other things, liabilities provided in or resulting from continuing
agreements between NL and Kronos.
Kronos and NL have also agreed to indemnify each other against certain
liabilities with respect to which a claim is made as of the distribution date.
Kronos has agreed to indemnify NL and parties related to NL from and against any
and all damages, losses, liabilities and expenses relating to, arising out or
resulting from:
o Kronos' or any other person's failure to discharge any of Kronos'
liabilities;
o Kronos' business, assets and liabilities;
o a material breach by Kronos of the distribution agreement or the various
ancillary agreements described in this information statement;
o liabilities released in the distribution agreement that are asserted by
persons purported to have released such liabilities; and
o any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement contained in this
information statement or the registration statement of which it is a part
or caused by any omission or alleged omission to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if, and only to
the extent that, such untrue statement or omission arises out of
information provided by Kronos for inclusion in this information statement
or registration statement.
NL has agreed to indemnify Kronos and parties related to Kronos from and
against any and all damages, losses, liabilities and expenses relating to,
arising out or resulting from:
o NL's or any other person's failure to discharge any of NL's liabilities,
other than those related to Kronos;
o NL's business, assets and liabilities, other than Kronos' liabilities;
o a material breach by NL of the distribution agreement or the various
ancillary agreements described in this information statement;
o liabilities released in the distribution agreement that are asserted by
persons purported to have released such liabilities; and
o any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement contained in this
information statement or the registration statement of which it is a part
or caused by any omission or alleged omission to state a material fact
necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if, and only to
the extent that, such untrue statement or omission arises out of
information provided by NL for inclusion in this information statement or
registration statement.
None of these indemnities applies to indemnification for income tax
liabilities, which are addressed in the tax sharing agreement among Kronos,
Contran and Valhi described below under "Tax Sharing Agreement." The
distribution agreement also includes procedures for notice and payment of
indemnification claims and generally provides that the indemnifying party may
assume the defense of a claim or suit brought by a third party. Any
indemnification amount paid under the indemnities will be paid net of the amount
of any insurance or other amounts that would be payable by any third party to
the indemnified party in the absence of the indemnity. In addition, the
distribution agreement provides that if indemnification is unavailable or
insufficient to hold the indemnified party harmless, the indemnifying party will
contribute to the amount paid or payable in a manner appropriate to reflect all
relevant equitable considerations.
Term Note
Immediately prior to the distribution, Kronos will declare and pay a
dividend to NL in the form of the $200 million Term Note. The Term Note payable
to NL will be unsecured and will bear interest at 9% per annum. Interest on the
Term Note will be payable quarterly with the principal and all accrued and
unpaid interest due at maturity on December 31, 2010.
Stock Options
The Board of Directors of NL has authorized an adjustment to the option
exercise price for all outstanding employee and non-employee director options to
purchase NL common stock in an amount per share equal to the taxable value of
the distribution of shares of Kronos common stock for each share of NL common
stock. In addition, to the extent that NL makes any adjustments to its
outstanding options as a result of the distribution, similar adjustments will be
made to the NL options held by Kronos employees.
Access to Information; Provision of Witnesses; Confidentiality
Under the distribution agreement, Kronos and NL will allow the other party
and their specified representatives reasonable access to all records in Kronos'
or its possession relating to the business and affairs of the other party as
reasonably required. Access will be allowed for such purposes as audit,
accounting, litigation, disclosure reporting and regulatory compliance. Each
party will also use reasonable efforts to make available to the other party and
its accountants, counsel and other designated representatives, upon written
request, its directors, officers, employees and representatives as witnesses and
will otherwise cooperate with the other party in connection with any proceeding
arising out of its or the other party's business and operations before the
distribution. Subject to limited exceptions, Kronos, NL and their respective
directors, officers, employees, agents, consultants and advisors will hold in
strict confidence all information in its or their possession concerning the
other party.
Transaction Expenses
The distribution agreement provides for each of NL and Kronos to pay their
own respective expenses in connection with the distribution.
Intercorporate Services Agreement
Two of Kronos' principal operating subsidiaries are parties to an
intercorporate services agreement with NL whereby NL provides certain
management, financial and administrative services to Kronos on a fee basis. The
distribution agreement provides that prior to completion of the distribution,
such intercorporate services agreement will be amended to include service to
Kronos and to reflect the fact that Kronos will be a publicly-traded company
following the distribution.
Tax Sharing Agreement
Effective on the date of the distribution, Kronos will no longer be a
member of the consolidated income tax group of which NL is the common parent,
and Kronos will remain a member of the consolidated income tax group of which
Valhi is the common parent. The tax sharing agreement between NL and Kronos will
terminate on the effective date of the distribution and will be replaced by a
tax sharing agreement among Kronos, Contran and Valhi. The terms of the
Kronos/Contran/Valhi tax sharing agreement will be substantially similar to the
terms of the terminated NL/Kronos tax sharing agreement. In accordance with the
group's policy for the intercompany allocation of federal income taxes, Kronos
will compute its tax payments to or receive payments from Valhi in the amounts
it would have paid to or received from the Internal Revenue Service had Kronos
not been a member of the consolidated income tax group of which Valhi is the
common parent. Kronos' separate company provisions and payments will be computed
using the elections made by Contran.
DIVIDEND POLICY
The declaration and payment of dividends is subject to the discretion of
Kronos' Board of Directors. Following the distribution, Kronos currently intends
to pay an initial quarterly dividend of $____ per share. However, any
determination as to the payment of dividends, as well as the type and amount of
such dividends, will depend on, among other things, Kronos' results of
operations and financial condition, general economic and business conditions,
Kronos' cash requirements for its businesses and other factors deemed relevant
by Kronos' Board of Directors. Kronos cannot provide any assurance that any
dividends will be declared and paid.
SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
The following selected historical financial data of Kronos with respect to
the years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002 and as of December 31, 2001 and
2002, is derived from, and should be read in conjunction with, Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement. The
selected historical financial data for the years ended December 31, 1998 and
1999 and for the three months ended March 31, 2002 and 2003, as of December
1998, 1999 and 2000 and March 31, 2003, is derived from Kronos' unaudited
consolidated financial statement. The selected historical financial data for the
three months ended March 31, 2002 and 2003 and as of March 31, 2003, should be
read in conjunction with the unaudited consolidated financial statements of
Kronos included in this information statement. Operating results for 2002 and
2003 interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the operating results
that Kronos will experience for the entire year. The selected historical
financial data set forth below should be read in conjunction with "Management's
Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations"
included in this information statement. The earnings per share and cash
dividends per share data presented below has been restated to give effect to the
change in Kronos' capital structure discussed in "Description of Capital Stock"
in which the 1,000 shares of Kronos' common stock currently outstanding will be
reclassified into 48.8 million shares of Kronos' common stock prior to the
distribution date. The selected historical financial data reflects Kronos'
results as it has historically been operated as a part of NL, and these results
may not be indicative of Kronos' future performance as a publicly traded company
following the distribution.
Three Months
Year Ended December 31, Ended March 31,
1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
---------- --------- ---------- ---------- ---------- --------- -------
(in millions, except per share data)
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Net sales................................$ 894.7 $ 908.4 $ 922.3 $ 835.1 $ 875.2 $ 202.4 $ 253.0
Net income(1)............................. 63.7 125.9 130.2 154.5 66.6 17.0 16.7
Net income per share...................... 1.31 2.58 2.67 3.17 1.37 .35 .34
Cash dividends per share.................. .31 .62 1.13 .63 2.28 - -
BALANCE SHEET DATA at period end:
Total assets.............................$ 1,015.4 $ 973.6 $ 893.4 $ 910.1 $ 1,000.8 $ 885.4 $ 1,021.1
Notes payable and long-term debt,
including current maturities............ 608.0 340.4 266.1 242.7 370.5 217.7 402.9
Common stockholder's equity............... 65.3 310.9 346.6 378.5 323.7 415.5 332.7
- --------------
(1) Net income in 1998 includes an $8.2 million income tax benefit resulting
from the refund of certain prior-year German dividend withholding taxes.
Net income in 1999 includes a $57.7 million income tax benefit related to
(i) a favorable resolution of Kronos' previously-reported tax contingency
in Germany ($29.1 million) and (ii) a net reduction in Kronos' deferred
income tax asset valuation allowance due to a change in the estimate of
Kronos' ability to utilize certain income tax attributes under the
"more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria ($28.6 million). See
"Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations" for a discussion of certain unusual items occurring during
2000, 2001 and 2002 and the first three months of 2002 and 2003.
The following selected unaudited pro forma financial data of Kronos with
respect to the year ended December 31, 2002 and the three months ended March 31,
2003, and as of March 31, 2003, has been derived from, and should be read in
conjunction with, Kronos' Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial
Statements and the March 31, 2003 Unaudited Pro Forma Balance Sheet, both of
which are included in this information statement. While such Unaudited Pro Forma
Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements is based on adjustments that Kronos
deems appropriate and that were factually supported based on currently available
data, the pro forma information may not be indicative of what actual results
would have been, nor does this information purport to present Kronos' financial
results for future periods.
Year ended Three months ended
December 31, 2002 March 31, 2003
----------------- ------------------
(In millions, except per share data)
INCOME STATEMENT DATA:
Net sales............................................. $ 875.2 $ 253.0
Net income............................................ 41.3 13.8
Net income per share.................................. .85 .28
BALANCE SHEET DATA at period end:
Total assets.......................................... N/A $ 1,021.1
Notes payable and long-term debt, including current
maturities.......................................... N/A 602.9
Common stockholder's equity........................... N/A 132.7
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS
Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
The accompanying "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" are based upon Kronos' consolidated
financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally
accepted accounting principles in the U.S. ("GAAP"). The preparation of these
financial statements requires Kronos to make estimates and judgments that affect
the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported
amount of revenues and expenses during the reported period. On an on-going
basis, Kronos evaluates its estimates, including those related to inventory
reserves, the recoverability of other long-lived assets, pension and other
postretirement benefit obligations and the underlying actuarial assumptions
related thereto, and the realization of deferred income tax assets and accruals
for income tax and other contingencies. Kronos bases its estimates on historical
experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable
under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making
judgments about the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and
expenses. Actual results may differ from previously-estimated amounts under
different assumptions or conditions.
Kronos believes the following critical accounting policies affect its more
significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of its consolidated
financial statements:
o Inventory allowances. Kronos provides reserves for estimated obsolescence
or unmarketable finished goods inventory equal to the difference between
the cost of inventory and the estimated market value based upon assumptions
about future demand for its products and market conditions. If actual
market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management,
additional finished goods inventory reserves may be required. Kronos
provides reserves for tools and supplies inventory generally based on both
historical and expected future usage requirements.
o Impairments of long-lived assets. Kronos recognizes an impairment charge
associated with its long-lived assets, including property and equipment,
whenever it determines that recovery of such long-lived asset is not
probable. Such determination is made in accordance with applicable GAAP
requirements associated with the long-lived asset, and is based upon, among
other things, estimates of the amount of future net cash flows to be
generated by the long-lived asset and estimates of the current fair value
of the asset. Adverse changes in such estimates of future net cash flows or
estimates of fair value could result in an inability to recover the
carrying value of the long-lived asset, thereby possibly requiring an
impairment charge to be recognized in the future.
Under applicable GAAP (Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS")
No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets"),
property and equipment is not assessed for impairment unless certain
impairment indicators, as defined, are present. During 2002, no such
impairment indicators were present with respect to Kronos' net property and
equipment.
Under applicable GAAP (SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible
Assets"), goodwill is required to be reviewed for impairment at least on an
annual basis. Kronos' goodwill relates to an acquisition completed in
January 2002, and such goodwill will initially be reviewed for impairment
during the third quarter of 2003.
o Deferred income tax valuation allowance. Kronos records a valuation
allowance to reduce its deferred income tax assets to the amount that is
believed to be realizable under the "more-likely-than-not" recognition
criteria. While Kronos has considered future taxable income and ongoing
prudent and feasible tax planning strategies in assessing the need for a
valuation allowance, it is possible that in the future Kronos may change
its estimate of the amount of the deferred income tax assets that would
"more-likely-than-not" be realized, resulting in an adjustment to the
deferred income tax asset valuation allowance that would either increase or
decrease, as applicable, reported net income in the period such change in
estimate was made.
o Defined benefit pension and postretirement benefit plans. Kronos' defined
benefit pension and postretirement benefits other than pensions ("OPEB")
expenses and obligations are calculated based on several estimates,
including discount rates, expected rates of returns on plan assets and
expected healthcare trend rates. Kronos reviews these rates annually with
the assistance of its actuaries. See further discussion of the potential
effect of these estimates in the Assumptions on Defined Benefit Pension
Plans and OPEB Plans sections in the Liquidity and Capital Resources
section of this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition
and Results of Operations.
o Other contingencies. Kronos records an accrual for income tax and other
contingencies when estimated future expenditures associated with such
contingencies become probable, and the amounts can be reasonably estimated.
However, new information may become available, or circumstances (such as
applicable laws and regulations) may change, thereby resulting in an
increase or decrease in the amount required to be accrued for such matters
(and therefore a decrease or increase in reported net income in the period
of such change).
Other significant accounting policies and use of estimates are described in
the Notes to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this
information statement.
Results of Operations
General
As discussed below, average TiO2 selling prices in billing currencies
(which excludes the effects of foreign currency translation) were generally
increasing during most of 2000, were generally decreasing during all of 2001 and
the first quarter of 2002, were flat during the second quarter of 2002 and were
generally increasing during the third and fourth quarters of 2002 and the first
quarter of 2003.
Many factors influence TiO2 pricing levels, including (i) competitor
actions, (ii) industry capacity, (iii) worldwide demand growth, (iv) customer
inventory levels and purchasing decisions and (v) relative changes in foreign
currency exchange rates. Kronos believes that the TiO2 industry has long-term
growth potential, as discussed in "Business--Industry" and "--Competition."
Sales and Operating Income--Three Months Ended March 31, 2002 and 2003
Three months ended %
March 31, Change
------------------------------------- ----------------
2002 2003
--------------------- ---------------
(In millions, except percentages and metric tons)
Net sales and operating income
Net sales $ 202.4 $ 253.0 +25%
Operating income $ 22.2 $ 34.3 +55%
Operating income margin percentage 11% 14%
TiO2 operating statistics Percent change in average selling price:
In billing currencies +6%
Using actual foreign currency exchange rates +18%
Sales volume (metric tons in thousands) 112 118 +5%
Production volume (metric tons in thousands) 106 117 +11%
Kronos' sales and operating income increased in the first quarter of 2003
compared to the first quarter of 2002 due primarily to higher average TiO2
selling prices as well as higher TiO2 sales and production volumes partially
offset by higher operating costs (particularly energy costs). Excluding the
effect of fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other
currencies, Kronos' average TiO2 selling price in billing currencies in the
first quarter of 2003 was 6% higher than the first quarter of 2002. When
translated from billing currencies to U.S. dollars using actual foreign currency
exchange rates prevailing during the respective periods, Kronos' average TiO2
selling prices in the first quarter of 2003 increased 18% compared to the first
quarter of 2002 (6% increase compared to the fourth quarter of 2002). Kronos'
TiO2 sales volume in the first quarter of 2003 was a first quarter record and
was 5% higher than the first quarter of 2002. Kronos' TiO2 production volume in
the first quarter of 2003, an all-time record for Kronos for any quarter, was
11% higher than the first quarter of 2002, with operating rates at near full
capacity in 2003 compared to 96% of capacity in 2002.
Kronos' cost of sales as a percentage of net sales decreased in the first
quarter of 2003 primarily due to higher average selling prices in billing
currencies and higher production volume, partially offset by higher energy
costs. Excluding the effects of foreign currency translation, which increased
Kronos' expenses in the first quarter of 2003 compared to year-earlier period,
Kronos' selling, general and administrative expenses, excluding corporate
expenses, in the first quarter of 2003 were slightly higher than the first
quarter of 2002.
Kronos expects that its operating income in 2003 will be higher than in
2002 primarily due to higher average TiO2 selling prices in billing currencies,
slightly higher sales volumes and higher production volumes, partially offset by
higher operating costs (particularly energy costs). Kronos' TiO2 production
volume in 2003 is expected to be higher than Kronos' 2003 TiO2 sales volume,
with finished goods inventories rising modestly. Kronos' expectations as to its
future prospects of Kronos and the TiO2 industry are based upon a number of
factors beyond Kronos' control, including worldwide growth of gross domestic
product, competition in the market place, unexpected or earlier-than-expected
capacity additions by competitors and technological advances. If actual
developments differ from Kronos' expectations, Kronos' results of operations
could be unfavorably affected.
Kronos has substantial operations and assets located outside the United
States (primarily in Germany, Belgium, Norway and Canada). A significant amount
of Kronos' sales generated from its non-U.S. operations are denominated in
currencies other than the U.S. dollar, principally the euro, other major
European currencies and the Canadian dollar. In addition, a portion of Kronos'
sales generated from its non-U.S. operations are denominated in the U.S. dollar.
Certain raw materials, primarily titanium-containing feedstocks, are purchased
in U.S. dollars, while labor and other production costs are denominated
primarily in local currencies. Consequently, the translated U.S. dollar value of
Kronos' foreign sales and operating results are subject to currency exchange
rate fluctuations which may favorably or adversely impact reported earnings and
may affect the comparability of period-to-period operating results. Overall,
fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies,
primarily the euro, increased Kronos' sales in the first quarter of 2003 by a
net $26.6 million compared to the same period in 2002. Fluctuations in the value
of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies similarly impacted Kronos'
foreign currency-denominated operating expenses. Kronos' operating costs that
are not denominated in the U.S. dollar, when translated into U.S. dollars, were
higher in the first quarter of 2003 compared to the first quarter of 2002.
Overall, the net impact of currency exchange rate fluctuations on Kronos
operating income comparisons was not significant in the first quarter of 2003 as
compared to 2002.
Sales and Operating Income--Years Ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002
Years ended December 31, % Change
--------------------------------------- --------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2001-00 2002-01
----------- ------------ ------------- ------------ -------------
(In millions)
Net sales and operating income
Net sales $ 922.3 $ 835.1 $ 875.2 -9% +5%
Operating income $ 212.5 $ 169.2 $ 96.5 -20% -43%
Operating income margin percentage 23% 20% 11%
TiO2 operating statistics Percent change in average selling prices:
In billing currencies -3% -9%
Using actual foreign currency exchange
rates -5% -7%
Sales volume (metric tons in thousands) 436 402 455 -8% +13%
Production volume (metric tons in
thousands) 441 412 442 -6% +7%
Production rate as a percent of capacity Full 91% 96%
Kronos' sales increased in 2002 compared to 2001 due primarily to higher
TiO2 sales volumes, offset by lower average TiO2 selling prices. Kronos' record
TiO2 sales volumes in 2002 were 13% higher compared to 2001 primarily due to
higher volumes in European and North American markets. By volume, approximately
one-half of Kronos' 2002 TiO2 sales volumes were attributable to markets in
Europe, with 39% attributable to North America and the balance to export
markets. The lower TiO2 sales volumes in 2001 were due in part to the effect of
a fire at Kronos' Leverkusen, Germany facility in March 2001 that disrupted
operations discussed in Notes 15 and 16 to Kronos' audited consolidated
financial statements included in this information statement.
Kronos' operating income declined in 2002 compared to 2001 as the effect of
lower average TiO2 selling prices more than offset the effect of higher TiO2
sales and production volumes. Excluding the effect of fluctuations in the value
of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies, Kronos' average TiO2 selling
price in 2002 was 9% lower than 2001, with prices lower in all major regions.
While Kronos' average TiO2 selling prices had generally been declining during
all of 2001 and the first quarter of 2002, and were flat during the second
quarter of 2002, average TiO2 selling prices increased during the third and
fourth quarters of 2002. Kronos' average TiO2 selling prices in the fourth
quarter of 2002 were 2% higher compared to the third quarter of the year, with
increases in all major markets. When translated from billing currencies to U.S.
dollars using actual foreign currency exchange rates prevailing during the
respective periods, Kronos' average TiO2 selling prices in 2002 decreased 7%
compared to 2001.
Kronos' record TiO2 production volume in 2002 was 7% higher than 2001.
Kronos' operating rates in 2001 were lower as compared to 2002 primarily due to
lost production resulting from the Leverkusen fire.
Kronos' operating income in 2001 includes $27.3 million of business
interruption insurance proceeds as payment for losses (unallocated period costs
and lost margin) caused by the Leverkusen fire. The effects of the lower TiO2
sales and production volumes were offset in part by the business interruption
insurance proceeds. Of such $27.3 million of business interruption insurance
proceeds, $20.1 million was recorded as a reduction of cost of sales to offset
unallocated period costs that resulted from lost production, and the remaining
$7.2 million, presenting recovery of lost margin, was recorded in other income.
The business interruption insurance proceeds distorts the operating income
margin percentage of 2001 as there are no sales associated with the $7.2 million
of lost margin operating profit recognized. See Note 16 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Kronos also recognized insurance recoveries of $29.1 million in 2001 for
property damage and related cleanup and other extra expenses related to the
Leverkusen fire, resulting in an insurance gain of $17.5 million, as the
insurance recoveries exceeded the carrying value of the property destroyed and
the cleanup and other extra expenses incurred. Such insurance gain is not
reported as a component of operating income but is included in general corporate
items. Kronos does not expect to recognize any additional insurance recoveries
related to the Leverkusen fire. See Note 16 to Kronos' audited consolidated
financial statements included in this information statement.
Excluding the effects of foreign currency translation, which increased
Kronos' expenses in 2002 compared to 2001, Kronos' cost of sales in 2002 was
higher than 2001 due to higher sales volume partially offset by lower unit
costs, which resulted primarily from higher production levels. The effects of
lower TiO2 sales and production volumes in 2001 were partially offset by receipt
of the business interruption proceeds discussed above. Kronos' cost of sales, as
a percentage of net sales, increased in 2002 compared to 2001 primarily due to
the impact on net sales of lower average selling prices partially offset by
lower unit costs. Kronos' selling, general and administrative expenses,
excluding corporate expenses ("SG&A expenses"), were higher in 2002 compared to
2001 primarily due to higher selling and distribution expenses associated with
higher sales volume in 2002 and higher administrative expenses. SG&A expenses
were approximately 12% of sales in both 2001 and 2002. See discussion of
corporate expenses below.
Kronos' sales decreased in 2001 compared to 2000 due primarily to lower
TiO2 sales volumes and lower TiO2 average selling prices. Excluding the effect
of fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies,
Kronos' average TiO2 selling prices (in billing currencies) during 2001 were 3%
lower compared to 2000, with prices lower in all major regions. When translated
from billing currencies to U.S. dollars using actual foreign currency exchange
rates prevailing during the respective periods, Kronos' average TiO2 selling
prices in 2001 decreased 5% compared to 2000. Kronos' TiO2 sales volumes in 2001
were 8% lower than the prior record sales volumes of 2000, primarily due to
lower volumes in North America and Europe.
Kronos' operating income in 2001 decreased compared to 2000 due primarily
to the lower TiO2 sales volumes and average selling prices as well as lower TiO2
production volume. Kronos' TiO2 production volume was 6% lower in 2001 compared
to the prior record production volume in 2000. The lower production volume in
2001 was due primarily to the effects of the Leverkusen fire.
Excluding the effects of foreign currency translation, which reduced
Kronos' expense in 2001 compared to 2000, Kronos' cost of sales in 2001 was
lower than 2000 primarily due to lower sales volume, partially offset by higher
unit costs, which resulted primarily from lower production levels. Kronos' cost
of sales, as a percentage of net sales, increased in 2001 compared with 2000
primarily due to the impact on net sales of lower average selling prices and
higher unit costs, partially offset by business interruption insurance
recoveries.
Kronos' SG&A expenses decreased in 2001 compared to 2000 due to lower
variable compensation expense and lower selling and distribution expenses
associated with lower 2001 sales volume. SG&A expenses were approximately 12% of
sales in both 2000 and 2001. See the discussion of corporate expenses below.
Pricing within the TiO2 industry is cyclical, and changes in industry
economic conditions can significantly impact Kronos' earnings and operating cash
flows. The average TiO2 selling price index (using 1983 = 100) of 142 in 2002
was 9% lower than the 2001 index of 156 (2001 was 3% lower than the 2000 index
of 161). In comparison, the 2002 index was 19% below the 1990 price index of 176
and 9% higher than the 1993 price index of 130. Many factors influence TiO2
pricing levels, including industry capacity, worldwide demand growth and
customer inventory levels and purchasing decisions.
Kronos' efforts to debottleneck its production facilities to meet long-term
demand continue to prove successful. Kronos expects its TiO2 production capacity
will increase by about 10,000 metric tons (primarily at its chloride-process
facilities), with moderate capital expenditures, to increase its aggregate
production capacity to about 480,000 metric tons during 2005.
As discussed above, Kronos has substantial operations and assets located
outside the United States (primarily in Germany, Belgium, Norway and Canada).
Overall, fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other
currencies, primarily the euro, increased Kronos' sales in 2002 by a net $21
million compared to 2001, and decreased Kronos' sales by a net $19 million in
2001 compared to 2000. Overall, the net impact of currency exchange rate
fluctuations on Kronos' operating income comparisons was not significant in
either 2002 or 2001 as compared to the respective prior year.
General Corporate
The following table sets forth certain information regarding general
corporate income (expense) for the years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002
and the three months ended March 31, 2002 and 2003.
Three months ended
Years ended December 31, March 31,
------------------------------------ ---------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(In thousands)
Interest income from affiliates............... $ 20,250 $ 33,379 $ 20,754 $ 8,485 $ 358
Insurance recoveries.......................... -- 17,468 -- -- --
Foreign currency transaction gain............. -- -- 6,271 -- --
Other expenses, net........................... (5,871) (4,529) (1,995) (1,006) (735)
Interest expense-third party debt............. (2,005) (4,305) (16,837) (700) (7,983)
Interest expense-affiliate debt............... (28,979) (22,969) (12,290) (5,667) (384)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -----------
$ (16,605) $ 19,044 $ (4,097) $ 1,112 $ (8,744)
========== ========== ========== ========== ==========
================================================================================
Kronos has certain loans to affiliates, more fully described in Notes 11
and 13 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this
information statement. Period-to-period changes in the amount of interest income
on such loans to affiliates is due to changes in the average outstanding balance
of such loans during the respective periods.
The insurance recoveries, net in 2001 related to insurance proceeds
received from property damage resulting from the Leverkusen fire, as the
insurance proceeds received exceeded the carrying value of the property
destroyed and cleanup costs incurred. See Note 16 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
The $6.3 million foreign currency transaction gain in 2002 relates to the
extinguishment of certain intercompany indebtedness associated with the offering
of the KII Senior Notes in June 2002. See Notes 10 and 15 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Other corporate expenses, net were comprised principally of the
intercorporate service agreement charges discussed in Note 18 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement. Other
corporate expenses, net in 2001 also included certain German real estate
transfer taxes of $1.5 million associated with a legal restructuring of Kronos'
German operations.
Interest expense on third-party debt was higher in the first quarter of
2003 compared to the first quarter of 2002, as well as being higher in 2002
compared to 2001, due primarily to the issuance of the KII Senior Notes in 2002
as well as borrowings under KII subsidiaries' bank credit facility entered into
in 2002. Interest expenses on third-party debt was higher in 2002 compared to
2001 due to higher levels of bank debt. Interest expense on third-party debt is
expected to be higher in 2003 compared to 2002 due to higher outstanding levels
of debt.
Interest expense on affiliate debt was lower in the first quarter of 2003
compared to the first quarter of 2002, and was lower in both 2002 and 2001
compared to the respective prior year, due primarily to lower average balances
of outstanding debt owed to affiliates. See "--Liquidity and Capital
Resources--Financing Cash Flows."
Provision for Income Taxes
The principal reasons for the difference between the U.S. Federal statutory
income tax rates and Kronos' effective income tax rates are explained in Note 14
to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this
information statement. Kronos' operations are conducted on a worldwide basis and
the geographic mix of income can significantly impact Kronos' effective income
tax rate. In 2002, Kronos' effective income tax rate varied from the normally
expected rate in part due to a reduction in the Belgian income tax rate and the
recognition of certain deductible tax assets which previously did not meet the
"more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria. In 2001, Kronos' effective income
tax rate varied from the normally expected rate primarily due to the geographic
mix of income and the recognition of certain German income tax attributes which
previously did not meet the "more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria. In
2000, Kronos' effective income tax rate varied from the normally expected rate
primarily due to the geographic mix of income, changes in the German income tax
"base" rate and the recognition of certain deductible tax assets which
previously did not meet the "more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria. Also in
2000, Kronos recognized certain one-time benefits related to German tax
settlements.
Kronos and its qualifying subsidiaries are members of NL's consolidated
U.S. federal income tax group (the "NL Tax Group"). As a member of the NL Tax
Group, Kronos is a party to a tax sharing agreement (the "NL Tax Agreement").
Effective January 1, 2001, the NL Tax Group, including Kronos, was included in
the consolidated U.S. federal tax return of Contran (the "Contran Tax Group").
As a member of the Contran Tax Group, NL is a party to a separate tax sharing
agreement (the "Contran Tax Agreement"). The Contran Tax Agreement provides that
NL and its qualifying subsidiaries, including Kronos, compute their provision
for U.S. income taxes on a separate-company basis using the tax elections made
by Contran. Pursuant to the NL Tax Sharing Agreement and using the tax elections
made by Contran, Kronos makes payments to or receives payments from NL in
amounts it would have paid to or received from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service
had it not been a member of the NL Tax Group but instead was a separate
taxpayer. Refunds are limited to amounts previously paid under the tax sharing
agreement.
Following the completion of NL's distribution of 48.9% of the outstanding
shares of Kronos common stock to NL shareholders, Kronos and its qualifying
subsidiaries would no longer be members of the NL Tax Group, but Kronos and its
qualifying subsidiaries would remain as members of the Contran Tax Group. Kronos
would enter into a new tax sharing agreement with Valhi and Contran (the
"Kronos/Contran/Valhi Tax Agreement"). The Kronos/Contran/Valhi Tax Agreement
will contain similar terms to the NL Tax Agreement.
Other
Related Party Transactions. Kronos is a party to certain transactions with
related parties. See "Liquidity and Capital Resources--Investing Cash Flows" and
Note 18 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this
information statement.
Recently Adopted Accounting Principles. As described in Note 2 to Kronos'
audited consolidated financial statements included in this information
statement, Kronos adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 143,
"Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations," effective January 1, 2003.
Liquidity and Capital Resources
Kronos' consolidated cash flows from operating, investing and financing
activities for the years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002 and the three
months ended March 31, 2002 and 2003 are presented below.
Years ended December 31, Three months ended March 31,
------------------------------------- ----------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(In millions)
Net cash provided (used) by:
Operating activities
Before changes in assets and liabilities. $ 153.9 $ 148.2 $ 95.6 $ 18.8 $ 28.4
Changes in assets and liabilities........ .8 (12.5) 14.2 20.2 (37.0)
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
154.7 135.7 109.8 39.0 (8.6)
Investing activities....................... (31.0) (33.7) (40.0) (14.8) (7.5)
Financing activities....................... (172.2) (99.0) (84.8) (25.3) 12.4
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net cash provided (used) by operating,
investing and financing activities......... $ (48.5) $ 3.0 $ (15.0) $ (1.1) $ (3.7)
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
Operating Cash Flows
Certain items included in the determination of net income do not represent
current inflows or outflows of cash. For example, insurance recoveries, net of
$17.5 million in 2001, are excluded from the determination of operating cash
flow. These insurance proceeds are shown in the statement of cash flows under
investing activities to partially offset the cash outflow impact of capital
expenditures related to the Leverkusen sulfate plant reconstruction. Certain
other items included in the determination of net income have an impact on cash
flows from operating activities, but the impact of such items on cash will
differ from their impact on net income. For example, the amount of income or
expense recorded for pension and OPEB assets and obligations (which depend upon
a number of factors, including actuarial assumptions used to value obligations)
will generally differ from the outflows of cash for such benefits. See Note 12
to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this
information statement.
The TiO2 industry is cyclical and changes in economic conditions within the
industry significantly impact the earnings and operating cash flows of Kronos.
Cash flow from operations is considered the primary source of liquidity for
Kronos. Changes in TiO2 pricing, production volume and customer demand, among
other things, could significantly affect the liquidity of Kronos.
Cash flow from operations, before changes in assets and liabilities,
increased in the first three months of 2003 from the comparable period in 2002
primarily due to $12.1 million of higher operating income partially offset by
$2.1 million of lower net distributions from Kronos' investment in its TiO2
manufacturing joint venture. The net cash used to fund changes in Kronos'
inventories, receivables and payables (excluding the effect of currency
translation) in the first three months of 2003 was significantly higher than the
first three months of 2002 with higher inventory balances (net of raw material
accruals), insurance proceeds collected in first quarter 2002 and decreases in
accounts payable and accrued liabilities in the first three months of 2003.
Inventories and accounts payable were affected by certain non-cash accruals for
certain titanium ore contracts of $31.6 million and $4.9 million at December 31,
2001 and 2002, respectively. These non-cash accruals were reversed as raw
materials were received under the contracts in the amounts of $25.8 million and
$4.9 million in first quarters 2002 and 2003, respectively.
Cash flows from operations, before changes in assets and liabilities, in
2002 compared with 2001 were unfavorably affected by $72.7 million of lower
operating income and $3.4 million of lower distributions from Kronos' investment
in its TiO2 manufacturing joint venture, partially offset by $22.9 million of
lower current tax expense.
Cash flow from operations, before changes in assets and liabilities,
decreased $52.6 million in 2002 and decreased $5.7 million in 2001 from the
preceding year.
Operating cash flows in 2001 compared with 2000 were unfavorably affected
by $43.3 million lower operating income, partially offset by $15.7 million of
lower current tax expense, $3.8 million of higher distributions from Kronos'
investment in its TiO2 manufacturing joint venture and $18.5 million of higher
interest income from affiliates, net.
Changes in Kronos' assets and liabilities, excluding the effect of currency
translation in 2002 compared to 2001, were favorably affected by lower accounts
and notes receivable of $3.0 million, changes in noncurrent assets and
liabilities, net of $2.6 million and lower inventories. In 2002, Kronos reduced
finished goods inventory by approximately 13,000 metric tons from year end 2001,
versus an increase in finished goods inventory from 2000 to 2001 of
approximately 10,000 metric tons. Also in 2002, Kronos reduced its commitment
for raw materials accrual by $26.7 million versus an increase in the raw
materials accrual of $16.3 million in 2001 from 2000. These changes in the
inventory balances resulted in a net $74.9 million reduction in inventories.
Kronos' assets and liabilities were unfavorably affected primarily by lower
accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $51.3 million, which included the
reduction in the accrual for raw material commitments in 2002 and the increase
of such accrual in 2001 referred to above.
Changes in Kronos' assets and liabilities (excluding the effect of currency
translation) in 2001 compared with 2000 were unfavorably affected by higher
inventories of $9.3 million and changes in income taxes payable of $15.9 million
primarily due to the payment of certain Canadian withholding taxes related to
the restructuring of certain of Kronos' subsidiaries. Kronos' assets and
liabilities were favorably affected by higher accounts payable of $9.3 million
and higher accounts with affiliates, net of $2.5 million.
In 2000, 2001 and 2002, pursuant to terms of certain titanium ore contracts
(discussed above), Kronos purchased, in advance of receipt, $15.3 million, $31.6
million and $4.9 million, respectively, of titanium ore, a raw material, which
is reflected in both inventory and accounts payable and had no net effect on
operating cash flow.
Investing Cash Flows
Kronos' capital expenditures were $5.5 million and $6.5 million in the
first three months of 2002 and 2003, respectively. Capital expenditures in first
quarter 2002 included approximately $1.2 million related to reconstruction of
Kronos' Leverkusen, Germany sulfate plant damaged in the March 2001 fire.
Kronos' capital expenditures were $31.1 million, $53.7 million and $32.6
million in 2000, 2001 and 2002, respectively. Capital expenditures in 2001 and
2002 included an aggregate of $22.3 million and $3.1 million, respectively, for
the rebuilding of Kronos' Leverkusen, Germany sulfate plant. In 2001, Kronos
received $23.4 million of insurance proceeds for property damage resulting from
the Leverkusen fire and paid $3.2 million of expenses related to repairs and
clean-up costs. Capital expenditures at LPC were approximately $4.0 million in
each of 2000, 2001 and 2002 and are not included in Kronos' capital
expenditures.
Kronos' capital expenditures during the past three years include an
aggregate of approximately $18.2 million ($5.0 million in 2002) for Kronos'
ongoing environmental protection and compliance programs. Kronos' estimated 2003
capital expenditures are $34.0 million and include approximately $5.0 million in
the area of environmental protection and compliance.
In January 2002, Kronos acquired all of the stock and limited liability
company units of EWI RE, Inc. and EWI RE, Ltd. (collectively, "EWI"),
respectively, for an aggregate of $9.2 million in cash, including capitalized
acquisition costs of $.2 million. See Notes 3 and 23 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Financing Cash Flows
In March 2002, Kronos repaid $25 million in principal amount of affiliate
indebtedness to NL. In June 2002, Kronos repaid $169 million principal amount,
plus accrued interest of affiliate indebtedness to NL, with proceeds from the
offering of the KII Senior Notes discussed below. See Notes 10 and 11 to Kronos'
audited consolidated financial statements included in this information
statement.
In June 2002, KII issued (euro)285 million ($280 million when issued and
$297 million at December 31, 2002) principal amount of the KII Senior Notes. The
KII Senior Notes are collateralized by first priority liens on 85% of the common
stock or other equity interests of certain of KII's first tier subsidiaries. The
KII Senior Notes are issued pursuant to an indenture that contains a number of
covenants and restrictions that, among other things, restrict the ability of KII
and its subsidiaries to incur debt, incur liens or merge or consolidate with, or
sell or transfer all or substantially all of their assets to, another entity.
The indenture further restricts the ability of KII to pay dividends under
certain circumstances. See Note 10 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial
statements included in this information statement.
In June 2002, Kronos' primary operating subsidiaries in Germany, Belgium
and Norway entered into a new three-year (euro)80 million secured revolving
credit facility ("European Credit Facility") and borrowed (euro)13 million ($13
million) and NOK 200 million ($26 million) which, along with available cash, was
used to repay and terminate KII's short term notes payable ($53.2 million when
paid). In the third and fourth quarters of 2002, Kronos repaid a net
euro-equivalent (euro)12.7 million ($12.4 million when paid) and (euro)1.7
million ($1.6 million when paid), respectively, of the European Credit Facility.
See Note 10 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in
this information statement.
In September 2002, Kronos' U.S. operating subsidiaries entered into a
three-year $50 million asset-based revolving credit facility ("U.S. Credit
Facility"). As of December 31, 2002, no borrowings were outstanding under the
U.S. Credit Facility and Borrowing Availability was approximately $30 million.
See Note 10 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in
this information statement.
In March 2003, Kronos borrowed (euro)15.0 million ($16.1 million when
borrowed) under the European Credit Facility. In April 2003, Kronos repaid NOK
80 million (approximately $11 million when paid) under the European Credit
Facility.
At December 31, 2002 and March 31, 2003, Kronos had borrowed a net $44.6
million and $8.0 million, respectively, from NL Environmental Management
Services, Inc. ("EMS"), a majority-owned subsidiary of NL, under the terms of a
$55 million revolving credit facility entered into with EMS in 2002. During the
first six months of 2003, Kronos repaid this outstanding balance in full, and
the revolving credit agreement with EMS was terminated on June 30, 2003. See
Note 11 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this
information statement.
Deferred financing costs of $10.7 million for the KII Senior Notes, the
European Credit Facility and the U.S. Credit Facility are being amortized over
the life of the respective agreements and are included in other noncurrent
assets.
In 2001, Kronos repaid (euro)7.6 million ($6.5 million when paid) and
(euro)16.4 million ($14.9 million when paid), respectively, of its
euro-denominated short-term debt with excess cash flow from operations.
In 2000, Kronos repaid (euro)17.9 million ($16.7 million when paid) and
(euro)13.0 million ($12.2 million when paid), respectively, of its
euro-denominated short-term debt with cash flow from operations. In January
2000, Kronos repaid a $43.0 million short-term affiliate note payable to NL
Capital Corporation ("NLCC"). Prior to January 31, 2000, NLCC was a wholly-owned
subsidiary of NL. See Note 21 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial
statements included in this information statement. In December 2000, Kronos
borrowed $43 million of short-term non-U.S. dollar-denominated bank debt and
used the proceeds along with cash on hand to redeem $50 million (par value) of
NL's 11.75% Senior Secured Notes.
Other than operating lease commitments disclosed in Note 19 to Kronos'
audited consolidated financial statements included in this information
statement, Kronos is not party to any off-balance sheet financing arrangements.
Dividends paid by Kronos to NL during 2000, 2001 and 2002 totaled $55.0
million, $30.5 million and $111.0 million, respectively.
Cash flows related to capital contributions and other transactions with
affiliates aggregated net cash outflows of $40.0 million, $47.5 million, $64.6
million and $11.4 million in 2000, 2001, 2002 and the first three months of
2003, respectively. Such amounts related principally to loans that Kronos made
to affiliates (such notes receivable from affiliates being reported as
reductions to Kronos' stockholder's equity, and therefore considered financing
cash flows). Additionally, settlement of the above-mentioned notes receivable
from affiliates was not currently contemplated in the foreseeable future. In
July 2002, Kronos transferred such notes receivable from affiliates to NL, and
as a result Kronos will no longer report cash flows related to such notes
receivable from affiliates.
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Marketable Debt
Securities and Borrowing Availability
At March 31, 2003, Kronos had cash and cash equivalents aggregating $44.1
million ($24.8 million held by non-U.S. subsidiaries). At March 31, 2003,
certain of Kronos' subsidiaries had $83 million available for borrowing with
approximately $43 million available under non-U.S. credit facilities (including
$41 million under the European Credit Facility) and approximately $40 million
under the U.S. Credit Facility. At March 31, 2003, Kronos had complied with all
financial covenants governing its debt agreements.
Based upon Kronos' expectations for the TiO2 industry and anticipated
demands on Kronos' cash resources as discussed herein, Kronos expects to have
sufficient liquidity to meet its obligations including operations, capital
expenditures, debt service and dividends. To the extent that actual developments
differ from Kronos' expectations, Kronos' liquidity could be adversely affected.
Income Taxes
A reduction in the German "base" income tax rate from 30% to 25%, enacted
in October 2000, became effective January 1, 2001. The reduction in the German
income tax rate resulted in $5.7 million of deferred income tax expense in the
fourth quarter of 2000 due to a reduction of Kronos' deferred income tax asset
related to certain German tax attributes.
A reduction in the Belgian income tax rate from 40.17% to 33.99%, enacted
in December 2002, became effective January 1, 2003. The reduction in the Belgian
income tax rate resulted in a $2.3 million decrease in deferred income tax
expense in the fourth quarter of 2002 due to a reduction of Kronos' deferred
income tax liabilities related to certain Belgian temporary differences.
Certain of Kronos' tax returns in various U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions
are being examined and tax authorities have proposed or may propose tax
deficiencies, including penalties and interest. See Note 14 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Kronos has received preliminary tax assessments for the years 1991 to 1997
from the Belgian tax authorities proposing tax deficiencies, including related
interest, of approximately (euro)10.4 million ($11.2 million at March 31, 2003).
Kronos has filed protests to the assessments for the years 1991 to 1997. Kronos
is in discussions with the Belgian tax authorities and believes that a
significant portion of the assessments is without merit. In April 2003, Kronos
received a notification from the Belgian tax authorities of their intent to
assess a tax deficiency related to 1999. The anticipated assessment, including
interest, is expected to approximate (euro)12 million ($12.9 million at March
31, 2003). Kronos believes the proposed assessment related to 1999 is without
merit and in April 2003 filed a written response in opposition to the
notification of intent to assess.
In 2002, Kronos received a notification from the Norwegian tax authorities
of their intent to assess tax deficiencies of approximately NOK 12.2 million
($1.7 million at March 31, 2003) relating to 1998 through 2000. Kronos has
objected to this proposed assessment in a written response to the Norwegian tax
authorities.
In the first quarter of 2003, Kronos was notified by the German Federal
Fiscal Court (the "Court") that the Court had ruled in Kronos' favor concerning
a claim for refund suit in which Kronos sought refunds of prior taxes paid
during the periods 1990 through 1997. Kronos has filed certain amended German
tax returns and expects to file additional amended German tax returns claiming
such tax refunds for all years affected by the Court's decision, which is
expected to result in a net refund of taxes and interest of approximately $40
million. As of March 31, 2003, Kronos has not reflected this tax refund in its
consolidated financial statements. Receipt of the German tax refunds is subject
to satisfaction of various procedural requirements, including a review and
acceptance of the amended German tax returns by the German tax authorities.
Certain of these procedural requirements were satisfied in the second quarter of
2003 with respect to a portion of the refund claim, and in July 2003 the German
tax authorities refunded Kronos a portion of the total anticipated refund. The
portion received in July was (euro)21.5 million ($24.6 million using June 30,
2003 exchange rates). Kronos will reflect this refund in its second quarter 2003
results of operations. Kronos expects to receive the remaining refunds over the
next six to nine months, a portion of which may result in an additional income
tax benefit.
No assurance can be given that Kronos' tax matters will be favorably
resolved due to the inherent uncertainties involved in court and tax
proceedings. Kronos believes that it has provided adequate accruals for
additional taxes and related interest expense which may ultimately result from
all such examinations and believes that the ultimate disposition of such
examinations should not have a material adverse effect on Kronos' consolidated
financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
At March 31, 2003, Kronos had the equivalent of approximately $451 million
of income tax loss carryforwards in Germany with no expiration date. However,
Kronos has provided a deferred tax valuation allowance against substantially all
of these income tax loss carryforwards because Kronos currently believes that it
does not meet the "more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria. In 2002, the
German federal government proposed certain changes to its income tax law,
including certain changes that would have imposed limitations on the annual
utilization of income tax loss carryforwards. Such proposal, if enacted, would
have significantly affected Kronos' 2003 and future income tax expense and cash
tax payments. In April 2003, the German federal government passed a new tax law
which does not contain the provision that would have restricted the utilization
of tax loss carryforwards. Furthermore, the provisions contained in the new law
are not expected to materially impact Kronos' income tax expense or cash tax
payments. On August 1, 2003, the German federal government proposed new tax law
amendments that, among other things, re-introduced the limitations on the annual
utilization of income tax loss carryforwards, to become effective in 2004. There
can be no assurance that these proposed law amendments will be enacted and, if
enacted, when they would become effective. Similar to the 2002 proposal, if
enacted as proposed, these amendments would significantly affect Kronos' future
income tax expense and cash tax payments.
At March 31, 2003, Kronos had net deferred tax liabilities of $82.9
million. Kronos operates in numerous tax jurisdictions, in certain of which it
has temporary differences that net to deferred tax assets (before valuation
allowance). Kronos has provided a deferred tax valuation allowance of $156.5
million at March 31, 2003, principally related to Germany, partially offsetting
deferred tax assets that Kronos believes do not currently meet the
"more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria.
Environmental Matters and Litigation
See "Business--Legal Proceedings" and Note 19 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Foreign Operations
As discussed above, Kronos has substantial operations located outside the
United States for which the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar. As a
result, the reported amount of Kronos' assets and liabilities related to its
non-U.S. operations, and therefore Kronos' consolidated net assets, will
fluctuate based upon changes in currency exchange rates. As of January 1, 2001,
the functional currency of Kronos' German, Belgian, Dutch and French operations
have been converted to the euro from their respective national currencies. At
March 31, 2003, Kronos had substantial net assets denominated in the euro,
Canadian dollar, Norwegian kroner and United Kingdom pound sterling.
New Accounting Principles Not Yet Adopted
See Note 2 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements
included in this information statement.
Other
Kronos periodically evaluates its liquidity requirements, alternative uses
of capital, capital needs and availability of resources in view of, among other
things, its dividend policy, its debt service and capital expenditure
requirements and estimated future operating cash flows. As a result of this
process, Kronos in the past has sought, and in the future may seek, to reduce,
refinance, repurchase or restructure indebtedness; raise additional capital;
issue additional securities; repurchase shares of its common stock; modify its
dividend policy; restructure ownership interests; sell interests in subsidiaries
or other assets; or take a combination of such steps or other steps to manage
its liquidity and capital resources. In the normal course of its business,
Kronos may review opportunities for the acquisition, divestiture, joint venture
or other business combinations in the chemicals or other industries, as well as
the acquisition of interests in related companies. In the event of any
acquisition or joint venture transaction, Kronos may consider using available
cash, issuing equity securities or increasing its indebtedness to the extent
permitted by the agreements governing Kronos' existing debt. See Note 10 to
Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this information
statement.
Summary of Debt and Other Contractual Commitments
As more fully described in the notes to Kronos' audited consolidated
financial statements included in this information statement, Kronos is a party
to various debt, lease and other agreements which contractually and
unconditionally commit Kronos to pay certain amounts in the future. See Notes
10, 11 and 19 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in
this information statement. The following table summarizes such contractual
commitments that are unconditional both in terms of timing and amount by the
type and date of payment as of December 31, 2002.
Unconditional Payment Due Date
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Contractual Commitment 2003 2004-2005 2006-2007 2008 and after Total
------ ----------- ----------- ----------------- --------
(In millions)
Indebtedness $ 1.3 $ 72.1 $ .2 $ 296.9 $ 370.5
Property and equipment 6.4 - - - 6.4
Operating leases 4.4 6.4 3.4 18.9 33.1
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
$ 12.1 $ 78.5 $ 3.6 $ 315.8 $ 410.0
=========== =========== =========== =========== ===========
In addition, Kronos is a party to certain other agreements that
contractually and unconditionally commit Kronos to pay certain amounts in the
future. However, while Kronos believes it is probable that amounts will be spent
in the future under such contracts, the amount and/or the timing of such future
payments will vary depending on certain provisions of the applicable contract.
Agreements to which Kronos is a party that fall into this category, more fully
described in Note 19 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements
included in this information statement, includes Kronos' long-term supply
contracts for the purchase of chloride-process TiO2 feedstock.
Assumptions on Defined Benefit Pension Plans and OPEB Plans
Defined Benefit Pension Plans. Kronos maintains various defined benefit
pension plans in Europe and Canada. Kronos accounts for its defined benefit
pension plans using SFAS No. 87, "Employer's Accounting for Pensions." Under
SFAS No. 87, defined benefit pension plan expense and prepaid and accrued
pension cost are each recognized based on certain actuarial assumptions,
principally the assumed discount rate, the assumed long-term rate of return on
plan assets and the assumed increase in future compensation levels. Kronos
recognized consolidated defined benefit pension plan expense of $4.5 million in
2000, $5.0 million in 2001 and $7.1 million in 2002. The amount of funding
requirements for these defined benefit pension plans is generally based upon
applicable regulation, and will generally differ from pension expense recognized
under SFAS No. 87 for financial reporting purposes. Contributions made by Kronos
to all of its defined benefit pension plans aggregated $8.2 million in 2000,
$7.4 million in 2001 and $9.0 million in 2002.
The discount rates Kronos utilizes for determining defined benefit pension
expense and the related pension obligations are based on current interest rates
earned on long-term bonds that receive one of the two highest ratings given by
recognized rating agencies in the applicable country where the defined benefit
pension benefits are being paid. In addition, Kronos receives advice about
appropriate discount rates to use based upon discussions with Kronos'
third-party actuaries, who may in some cases utilize their own market indices.
The discount rates are adjusted as of each valuation date (September 30th for
Kronos' plans) to reflect then-current interest rates on such long-term bonds.
Such discount rates are used to determine the actuarial present value of the
pension obligations as of December 31st of that year, and such discount rates
are also used to determine the interest component of defined benefit pension
expense for the following year.
At December 31, 2002, approximately 63%, 11% and 17% of the projected
benefit obligations for all of Kronos' defined benefit pension plans were
attributable to Germany, Canada and Norway, respectively. Because Kronos
maintains defined benefit pension plans in several different countries and
because the interest rate environment differs from country to country, Kronos
uses several different discount rate assumptions in determining its defined
benefit pension plan obligations and expense.
Kronos used the following discount rates for its defined benefit pension
plans:
Obligation at Obligation at Obligation at
December 31, 2000 December 31, 2001 December 31, 2002
and expenses in 2001 and expenses in 2002 and expenses in 2003
-------------------- -------------------- --------------------
Germany.............................. 6.0% 5.8% 5.5%
Canada............................... 7.5% 7.3% 7.0%
Norway............................... 6.0% 6.0% 6.0%
The assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets represents the
estimated average rate of earnings expected to be earned on the funds invested
or to be invested in the plans' assets provided to fund the benefit payments
inherent in the projected benefit obligation. Unlike the discount rate, which is
adjusted each year based on changes in current long-term interest rates, the
assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets will not necessarily change
based upon the actual, short-term performance of the plan assets in any given
year. Defined benefit pension expense each year is based upon the assumed
long-term rate of return on plan assets for each plan and the actual fair value
of the plan assets as of the beginning of the year. Differences between the
expected return on plan assets for a given year and the actual return are
deferred and amortized over future periods based either upon the expected
average remaining service life of the active plan participants (for plans for
which benefits are still being earned by active employees) or the average
remaining life expectancy of the inactive participants (for plans for which
benefits are not still being earned by active employees).
At December 31, 2002, approximately 59%, 10% and 22% of the plan assets for
all of Kronos' defined benefit pension plans were attributable to Germany,
Canada and Norway, respectively. Because Kronos maintains defined benefit
pension plans in several different countries, because the plan assets in
different countries are invested in a different mix of investments and because
the long-term rates of return for different investments differ from country to
country, Kronos uses several different long-term rates of return on plan asset
assumptions in determining its defined benefit pension plan expense.
In determining the expected long-term rate of return on plan asset
assumptions, Kronos considers the long-term asset mix (e.g. equity vs. fixed
income) for the assets for each of its plans and the expected long-term rates of
return for such asset components. In addition, Kronos receives advice about
appropriate long-term rates of return to use based upon discussions with Kronos'
third-party actuaries. Such assumed asset mixes are summarized below:
o In Germany, the composition of plan assets is established to satisfy the
requirements of the German insurance commissioner. The current plan asset
allocation at December 31, 2002 was 30% to equity managers and 70% to fixed
income managers.
o In Canada, Kronos currently has a plan asset target allocation of 65% to
equity managers and 35% to fixed income managers, with an expected
long-term rate of return for such investments to average approximately 125
basis points above the applicable equity or fixed income index. The current
plan asset allocation at December 31, 2002 was 54% to equity managers and
46% to fixed income managers.
o In Norway, Kronos currently has a plan asset target allocation of 15% to
equity managers and 85% to fixed income managers, with an expected
long-term rate of return for such investments of approximately 8% and 6%,
respectively. The current plan asset allocation at December 31, 2002 was
13% to equity managers and 87% to fixed income managers.
Kronos regularly reviews its actual asset allocation for each of its plans,
and will periodically rebalance the investments in each plan to more accurately
reflect the targeted allocation when considered appropriate.
Kronos' assumed long-term rates of return on plan assets for 2000, 2001 and
2002 were as follows:
2000 2001 2002
----------- ------------ ----------------
Germany 7.5% 7.3% 6.8%
Canada 8.0% 7.8% 7.0%
Norway 7.0% 7.0% 7.0%
Kronos currently expects to utilize the same long-term rate of return on
plan asset assumptions in 2003 as it used in 2002 for purposes of determining
the 2003 defined benefit pension plan expense.
To the extent that a plan's particular pension benefit formula calculates
the pension benefit in whole or in part based upon future compensation levels,
the projected benefit obligation and the pension expense will be based in part
upon expected increases in future compensation levels. For all of Kronos' plans
for which the benefit formula is so calculated, Kronos generally bases the
assumed expected increase in future compensation levels based upon average
long-term inflation rates for the applicable country.
In addition to the actuarial assumptions discussed above, because Kronos
maintains defined benefit pension plans outside the U.S. the amount of
recognized defined benefit pension expense and the amount of prepaid and accrued
pension cost will vary based upon relative changes in foreign currency exchange
rates.
Based on the actuarial assumptions described above and Kronos' current
expectation for what actual average foreign currency exchange rates will be
during 2003, Kronos expects its defined benefit pension expense will approximate
$8 million in 2003. In comparison, Kronos expects to be required to make
approximately $12 million of contributions to such plans during 2003.
Defined benefit pension expense and the amount recognized as prepaid and
accrued pension costs are based upon the actuarial assumptions discussed above.
Kronos believes all of the actuarial assumptions used are reasonable and
appropriate. If Kronos had lowered the assumed discount rate by 25 basis points
for all of its plans as of December 31, 2002, Kronos' aggregate projected
benefit obligation would have increased by approximately $9.4 million at that
date, and Kronos' defined benefit pension expense would be expected to increase
by approximately $1.3 million during 2003. Similarly, if Kronos lowered the
assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets by 25 basis points for all of
its plans, Kronos' defined benefit pension expense would be expected to increase
by approximately $.5 million during 2003.
OPEB Plans. Certain of Kronos' subsidiaries in the U.S. and Canada
currently provide certain health care and life insurance benefits for eligible
retired employees. Kronos accounts for such OPEB costs under SFAS No. 106,
"Employers Accounting for Postretirement Benefits other than Pensions." Under
SFAS No. 106, OPEB expense and accrued OPEB costs are based on certain actuarial
assumptions, principally the assumed discount rate and the assumed rate of
increases in future health care costs. Kronos recognized consolidated OPEB
expense (income) of nil in 2000, $(.1) million in 2001 and $(.3) million in
2002. Similar to defined benefit pension benefits, the amount of funding will
differ from the expense recognized for financial reporting purposes, and
contributions to the plans to cover benefit payments aggregated $1.0 million in
2000, $1.2 million in 2001 and $1.0 million in 2002.
The assumed discount rates Kronos utilizes for determining OPEB expense and
the related accrued OPEB obligation is generally based on the same discount
rates Kronos utilizes for its Canadian defined benefit pension plans.
In estimating the health care cost trend rate, Kronos considers its actual
healthcare cost experience, future benefit structures, industry trends and
advice from its third-party actuaries. During each of the past three years,
Kronos has assumed that the relative increase in health care costs will
generally trend downward over the next several years, reflecting, among other
things, assumed increases in efficiency in the health care system and
industry-wide cost containment initiatives. For example, at December 31, 2002,
the expected rate of increase in future health care costs ranges from 9% in
2003, declining to 5.5% in 2007 and thereafter.
Based on the actuarial assumptions described above and Kronos' current
expectation for what actual average foreign currency exchange rates will be
during 2003, Kronos expects its OPEB expense (income) will approximate $(.2)
million in 2003. In comparison, Kronos expects to be required to make
approximately $1.3 million of contributions to such plans during 2003.
OPEB expense and the amount recognized as accrued OPEB costs are based upon
the actuarial assumptions discussed above. Kronos believes all of the actuarial
assumptions used are reasonable and appropriate. If Kronos had lowered the
assumed discount rate by 25 basis points for all of its OPEB plans as of
December 31, 2002, Kronos' aggregate accumulated OPEB obligation would have
increased by approximately $.3 million at that date, and Kronos' OPEB expense
would be expected to increase by a nil amount during 2003. Similarly, if the
assumed future health care cost trend rate had been increased by 100 basis
points, Kronos' accumulated OPEB obligation would have increased by
approximately $.8 million at December 31, 2002, and OPEB expense would have
increased by $.1 million in 2002.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
General
Kronos is exposed to market risk from changes in currency exchange rates,
interest rates and equity security prices. In the past, Kronos has periodically
entered into interest rate swaps or other types of contracts in order to manage
a portion of its interest rate market risk. Otherwise, Kronos has not generally
entered into forward or option contracts to manage such market risks, nor has
Kronos entered into any such contract or other type of derivative instrument for
trading purposes. Kronos was not a party to any forward or derivative option
contracts related to currency exchange rates, interest rates or equity security
prices at December 31, 2001 or 2002. See Notes 2 and 20 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Interest Rates
Kronos is exposed to market risk from changes in interest rates, primarily
related to indebtedness. At December 31, 2002, Kronos' aggregate indebtedness
was split between 81% of fixed-rate instruments and 19% of variable-rate
borrowings (2001 - 81% fixed-rate and 19% variable-rate). The large percentage
of fixed-rate debt instruments minimizes earnings volatility which would result
from changes in interest rates. The following table presents principal amounts
and weighted-average interest rates, by contractual maturity dates, for Kronos'
aggregate indebtedness at December 31, 2001 and 2002. At December 31, 2002, all
outstanding fixed-rate indebtedness was denominated in euros (2001 - all fixed
rate indebtedness denominated in U.S. dollars), and all outstanding
variable-rate indebtedness was denominated in either euros, Norwegian kroner or
U.S. dollars. Information shown below for such euro- and Norwegian
kroner-denominated indebtedness is presented in its U.S. dollar equivalent at
December 31, 2002 using that date's exchange rate of .96 euro per U.S. dollar
(2001 - 1.13 euro per U.S. dollar) and 6.99 Norwegian kroner per U.S. dollar
(2001 - 9.02 Norwegian kroner per U.S. dollar). Certain Norwegian
kroner-denominated capital leases totaling $1.9 million in 2002 have been
excluded from the table below.
Amount
------------------------------
Carrying Fair Interest Maturity
Indebtedness value value rate date
------------
-------------- --------------- -------------- --------------
(In millions)
Fixed-rate indebtedness (euro-denominated):
KII Senior Notes $ 296.9 $ 299.9 8.875% 2009
------------------------------ --------------
296.9 299.9 8.875%
------------------------------ --------------
Variable-rate indebtedness:
European Credit Facility:
euro-denominated 15.6 15.6 4.8% 2005
Norwegian kroner-denominated 11.5 11.5 8.9% 2005
Note payable to affiliate (U.S. dollar denominated) 44.6 44.6 3.1% 2005
------------------------------ --------------
71.7 71.7 4.4%
------------------------------ --------------
$ 368.6 $ 371.6 8.0%
============================== ==============
At December 31, 2001, fixed-rate indebtedness aggregated $194.0 million
(fair value - $194.9 million) with a weighted-average interest rate of 11.75%;
variable rate indebtedness at such date aggregated $46.2 million, which
approximated fair value, with a weighted-average interest rate of 5.45%. All of
such fixed rate indebtedness was denominated in U.S. dollars. Such variable rate
indebtedness was denominated in the euro (52%) and the Norwegian kroner (48%).
Certain Norwegian kroner-denominated capital leases totaling $2.5 million at
December 31, 2001 have been excluded from the above analysis.
Currency Exchange Rates
Kronos is exposed to market risk arising from changes in currency exchange
rates as a result of manufacturing and selling its products worldwide. Earnings
are primarily affected by fluctuations in the value of the U.S. dollar relative
to the euro, Canadian dollar, Norwegian kroner and the United Kingdom pound
sterling. See Item 7. "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations" for a discussion of risks and uncertainties
related to the conversion of certain of these currencies to the euro.
At December 31, 2002, Kronos had $312.5 million of indebtedness denominated
in euros (2001 - $24.0 million) and $11.5 million of indebtedness denominated in
Norwegian kroner (2001 - $22.2 million). The potential increase in the U.S.
dollar equivalent of the principal amount outstanding resulting from a
hypothetical 10% adverse change in exchange rates would be approximately $32.4
million (2001 - $4.6 million).
Other
Kronos believes there are certain shortcomings in the sensitivity analyses
presented above, which analyses are required under the SEC's regulations. For
example, the hypothetical effect of changes in interest rates discussed above
ignores the potential effect on other variables which affect Kronos' results of
operations and cash flows, such as demand for Kronos' products, sales volumes
and selling prices and operating expenses. Contrary to the above assumptions,
changes in interest rates rarely result in simultaneous parallel shifts along
the yield curve. Accordingly, the amounts presented above are not necessarily an
accurate reflection of the potential losses Kronos would incur assuming the
hypothetical changes in market prices were actually to occur.
The above discussion and estimated sensitivity analysis amounts include
forward-looking statements of market risk which assume hypothetical changes in
market prices. Actual future market conditions could differ materially from such
assumptions. Accordingly, such forward-looking statements should not be
considered to be projections by Kronos of future events, gains or losses.
Non-GAAP Financial Measures
In an effort to provide investors with additional information regarding
Kronos' results as determined by GAAP, Kronos has disclosed certain non-GAAP
information which Kronos believes provides useful information to investors:
Kronos discloses percentage changes in its average TiO2 prices in billing
currencies, which excludes the effects of foreign currency translation, so that
changes can be analyzed without the impact of changes in foreign currency
exchange rates, thereby facilitating period-to-period comparisons. Generally,
when the U.S. dollar either strengthens or weakens against other currencies, the
percentage change in average selling prices in billing currencies will be higher
or lower, respectively, than such percentage changes would be using actual
exchange rates prevailing during the respective periods.
BUSINESS
General
Kronos is the world's fifth largest producer of TiO2 with an estimated 12%
share of worldwide TiO2 sales volume in 2002. Approximately one-half of Kronos'
2002 sales volume was in Europe, where Kronos is the second largest producer of
TiO2.
Industry
Titanium dioxide pigments are chemical products used for imparting
whiteness, brightness and opacity to a wide range of products, including paints,
plastics, paper, fibers and ceramics. TiO2 is considered a "quality-of-life"
product with demand affected by changes in gross domestic product in various
regions of the world.
Pricing within the global TiO2 industry is cyclical, and changes in
industry economic conditions can significantly impact Kronos' earnings and
operating cash flows. Kronos' average TiO2 selling price on a billing currency
basis increased from the preceding quarter during each of the third and fourth
quarters of 2002 and the first quarter of 2003, reversing the downward trend in
prices that began in the first quarter of 2001 and continued through the first
quarter of 2002. Industry-wide demand for TiO2 strengthened throughout 2002,
with full year demand estimated as 9% higher than the previous year. This is
believed to have been the result of economic growth and restocking of customer
inventory levels. Volume demand in 2003 is expected to increase moderately over
2002 levels.
Kronos has an estimated 18% share of European TiO2 sales volume and an
estimated 14% share of North American TiO2 sales volume. Per capita consumption
of TiO2 in the United States and Western Europe far exceeds that in other areas
of the world and these regions are expected to continue to be the largest
consumers of TiO2. Significant regions for TiO2 consumption could emerge in
Eastern Europe, the Far East or China if the economies in these regions develop
to the point that quality-of-life products, including TiO2, are in greater
demand. Kronos believes that, due to its strong presence in Western Europe, it
is well positioned to participate in growth in consumption of TiO2 in Eastern
Europe. Geographic segment information is contained in Note 3 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Products and Operations
TiO2 is produced in two crystalline forms: rutile and anatase. Rutile TiO2
is a more tightly bound crystal that has a higher refractive index than anatase
TiO2 and, therefore, provides better opacification and tinting strength in many
applications. Although many end-use applications can use either form of TiO2,
rutile TiO2 is the preferred form for use in coatings, plastics and ink. Anatase
TiO2 has a bluer undertone and is less abrasive than rutile TiO2, and it is
often preferred for use in paper, ceramics, rubber and man-made fibers.
Kronos believes that there are no effective substitutes for TiO2. However,
extenders such as kaolin clays, calcium carbonate and polymeric opacifiers are
used in a number of Kronos' markets. Generally, extenders are used to reduce to
some extent the utilization of higher-cost TiO2. The use of extenders has not
significantly changed TiO2 consumption over the past decade because, to date,
extenders generally have failed to match the performance characteristics of
TiO2. As a result, Kronos believes that the use of extenders will not materially
alter the growth of the TiO2 business in the foreseeable future.
Kronos currently produces over 40 different TiO2 grades, sold under the
Kronos trademark, which provide a variety of performance properties to meet
customers' specific requirements. Kronos' major customers include domestic and
international paint, plastics and paper manufacturers.
Kronos is one of the world's leading producers and marketers of TiO2.
Kronos and its distributors and agents sell and provide technical services for
its products to over 4,000 customers with the majority of sales in Europe and
North America. TiO2 is distributed by rail, truck and ocean carrier in either
dry or slurry form. Kronos' manufacturing facilities are located in Germany,
Canada, Belgium and Norway and Kronos owns a one-half interest in a TiO2
manufacturing joint venture located in Louisiana, U.S.A. Kronos has sales and
marketing activities in over 100 countries worldwide. Kronos and its
predecessors have produced and marketed TiO2 in North America and Europe for
over 80 years. As a result, Kronos believes that it has developed considerable
expertise and efficiency in the manufacture, sale, shipment and service of its
products in domestic and international markets. By volume, approximately
one-half of Kronos' 2002 TiO2 sales were to Europe, with 39% to North America
and the balance to export markets.
Kronos is also engaged in the mining and sale of ilmenite ore (a raw
material used as a feedstock by sulfate-process TiO2 plants) and has estimated
ilmenite reserves that are expected to last at least 20 years. Kronos is also
engaged in the manufacture and sale of iron-based water treatment chemicals
(derived from co-products of the pigment production processes). Kronos' water
treatment chemicals (marketed under the name Ecochem) are used as treatment and
conditioning agents for industrial effluents and municipal wastewater, and in
the manufacture of iron pigments.
Manufacturing Process and Raw Materials
TiO2 is manufactured by Kronos using both the chloride process and the
sulfate process. Approximately 72% of Kronos' current production capacity is
based on its chloride process which generates less waste than the sulfate
process. The chloride process is a continuous process in which chlorine is used
to extract rutile TiO2. In general, the chloride process requires less capital
investment, labor and energy than the sulfate process. Because much of the
chlorine is recycled and higher titanium-containing feedstock is used, the
chloride process produces less waste. The sulfate process is a batch chemical
process that uses sulfuric acid to extract TiO2. Sulfate technology normally
produces either anatase or rutile pigment. Once an intermediate TiO2 pigment has
been produced by either the chloride or sulfate process, it is '"finished" into
products with specific performance characteristics for particular end-use
applications through proprietary processes involving various chemical surface
treatments and intensive milling and micronizing.
Due to environmental factors and customer considerations, the proportion of
TiO2 industry sales represented by chloride-process pigments has increased
relative to sulfate-process pigments and, in 2002, chloride-process production
facilities represented approximately 62% of industry capacity.
Kronos produced a company record 442,000 metric tons of TiO2 in 2002,
compared to 412,000 metric tons produced in 2001 and 441,000 metric tons in
2000. Kronos' average production capacity utilization rate in 2002 was 96%, up
from 91% in 2001. Capacity utilization rates in 2001 were down due in part to
lost sulfate production volume resulting from the Leverkusen fire. Kronos
believes its current annual attainable production capacity is approximately
470,000 metric tons, including its one-half interest in the joint venture-owned
Louisiana plant (see "TiO2 Manufacturing Joint Venture"). Kronos expects its
production capacity will be increased by approximately 10,000 metric tons
primarily at its chloride facilities, with moderate capital expenditures,
bringing Kronos' capacity to approximately 480,000 metric tons during 2005.
The primary raw materials used in the TiO2 chloride production process are
titanium-containing feedstock derived from beach sand ilmenite, natural rutile
ore, chlorine and coke. Chlorine and coke are available from a number of
suppliers. Titanium-containing feedstock suitable for use in the chloride
process is available from a limited number of suppliers around the world,
principally in Australia, South Africa, Canada, India and the United States.
Kronos purchases slag refined from ilmenite sand from Richards Bay Iron and
Titanium (Proprietary) Limited (South Africa), a 51%-owned subsidiary of Rio
Tinto plc (U.K.), under a long-term supply contract that expires at the end of
2007. Natural rutile ore is purchased primarily from Iluka Resources, Limited
(Australia) under a long-term supply contract that expires at the end of 2004.
Kronos does not expect to encounter difficulties obtaining long-term extensions
to existing supply contracts prior to the expiration of the contracts. Raw
materials purchased under these contracts and extensions thereof are expected to
meet Kronos' chloride feedstock requirements over the next several years.
The primary raw materials used in the TiO2 sulfate production process are
titanium-containing feedstock derived primarily from rock and beach sand
ilmenite and sulfuric acid. Sulfuric acid is available from a number of
suppliers. Titanium-containing feedstock suitable for use in the sulfate process
is available from a limited number of suppliers around the world, with the
principal active sources currently located in Norway, Canada, Australia, India
and South Africa. As one of the few vertically integrated producers of
sulfate-process pigments, Kronos operates a rock ilmenite mine in Norway, which
provided all of Kronos' feedstock for its European sulfate-process pigment
plants in 2002. For its Canadian sulfate-process plant, Kronos also purchases
sulfate grade slag primarily from Q.I.T. Fer et Titane Inc. (Canada), a wholly
owned subsidiary of Rio Tinto Iron & Titanium, Inc., under a long-term supply
contract that expires at the end of 2006.
Kronos believes the availability of titanium-containing feedstock for both
the chloride and sulfate processes is adequate for the next several years.
Kronos does not expect to experience any interruptions of its raw material
supplies because of its long-term supply contracts. However, political and
economic instability in certain countries from which Kronos purchases its raw
material supplies could adversely affect the availability of such feedstock.
Should Kronos' vendors not be able to meet their contractual obligations or
should Kronos be otherwise unable to obtain necessary raw materials, Kronos may
incur higher costs for raw materials or may be required to reduce production
levels, which may have a material adverse effect on Kronos' financial position,
results of operations or liquidity.
TiO2 Manufacturing Joint Venture
Subsidiaries of Kronos and Huntsman International Holdings LLC ("Huntsman")
each own a 50%-interest in a manufacturing joint venture, Louisiana Pigment
Company ("LPC"). LPC owns and operates a chloride-process TiO2 plant located in
Lake Charles, Louisiana. Production from the plant is shared equally by Kronos
and Huntsman (the "Partners") pursuant to separate offtake agreements.
A supervisory committee, composed of four members, two of whom are
appointed by each Partner, directs the business and affairs of LPC including
production and output decisions. Two general managers, one appointed and
compensated by each Partner, manage the operations of the joint venture acting
under the direction of the supervisory committee.
The manufacturing joint venture operates on a break-even basis and,
accordingly, Kronos reports no equity in earnings of the joint venture. Kronos'
cost for its share of the TiO2 produced is equal to its share of the joint
venture's costs. Kronos' share of net costs is reported as cost of sales as the
related TiO2 acquired from the joint venture is sold. See Note 7 to Kronos'
audited consolidated financial statements included in this information
statement.
Competition
The TiO2 industry is highly competitive. Kronos competes primarily on the
basis of price, product quality and technical service, and the availability of
high performance pigment grades. Although certain TiO2 grades are considered
specialty pigments, the majority of Kronos' grades and substantially all of
Kronos' production are considered commodity pigments with price generally being
the most significant competitive factor. Kronos believes that it is the leading
seller of TiO2 in several countries, including Germany and Canada.
Kronos' principal competitors are E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co. ("DuPont");
Millennium Chemicals, Inc.; Huntsman; Kerr-McGee Corporation; and Ishihara
Sangyo Kaisha, Ltd. Kronos' five largest competitors have estimated individual
shares of worldwide TiO2 production capacity ranging from 24% to 5%, and an
estimated aggregate 70% share of worldwide TiO2 production volume. DuPont has
about one-half of total U.S. TiO2 production capacity and is Kronos' principal
North American competitor.
Capacity additions that are the result of construction of greenfield plants
in the worldwide TiO2 market require significant capital and substantial lead
time, typically three to five years in Kronos' experience. As no new plants are
currently under construction, additional greenfield capacity is not expected in
the next three to five years, but industry capacity can be expected to increase
as Kronos and its competitors debottleneck existing plants. In addition to
potential capacity additions, certain competitors have either idled or shut down
facilities. Based on the factors described in "Industry" above, Kronos expects
that the average annual increase in industry capacity from announced
debottlenecking projects will be less than the average annual demand growth for
TiO2 over the next three to five years.
No assurance can be given that future increases in the TiO2 industry
production capacity and future average annual demand growth rates for TiO2 will
conform to Kronos' expectations. If actual developments differ from Kronos'
expectations, Kronos and the TiO2 industry's performance could be unfavorably
affected.
Research and Development
Kronos' expenditures for research and development and certain technical
support programs averaged approximately $6 million during each of 2000, 2001 and
2002. Research and development activities are conducted principally at the
Leverkusen, Germany facility. Such activities are directed primarily toward
improving both the chloride and sulfate production processes, improving product
quality and strengthening Kronos' competitive position by developing new pigment
applications.
Patents and Trademarks
Patents held for products and production processes are believed to be
important to Kronos and to the continuing business activities of Kronos. Kronos
continually seeks patent protection for its technical developments, principally
in the United States, Canada and Europe, and from time to time enters into
licensing arrangements with third parties.
Kronos' major trademarks, including Kronos, are protected by registration
in the United States and elsewhere with respect to those products it
manufactures and sells.
Foreign Operations
Kronos' chemical businesses have operated in non-U.S. markets since the
1920s. Most of Kronos' current production capacity is located in Europe and
Canada with non-U.S. net property and equipment aggregating approximately $379
million at March 31, 2003. Net property and equipment in the U.S., including 50%
of the property and equipment of LPC, was approximately $120 million at such
date. Kronos' European operations include production facilities in Germany,
Belgium and Norway. Approximately $603 million of Kronos' 2002 consolidated
sales were to non-U.S. customers, including $93 million to customers outside of
Europe and Canada. Sales to customers in the U.S. aggregated $272 million in
2002. Foreign operations are subject to, among other things, currency exchange
rate fluctuations and Kronos' results of operations have, in the past, been both
favorably and unfavorably affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
Effects of fluctuations in currency exchange rates on Kronos' results of
operations are discussed in "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
Condition and Results of Operations."
Political and economic uncertainties in certain of the countries in which
Kronos operates may expose it to risk of loss. Kronos does not believe that
there is currently any likelihood of material loss through political or economic
instability, seizure, nationalization or similar event. Kronos cannot predict,
however, whether events of this type in the future could have a material effect
on its operations. Kronos' manufacturing and mining operations are also subject
to extensive and diverse environmental regulation in each of the foreign
countries in which they operate. See "Regulatory and Environmental Matters."
Customer Base and Seasonality
Kronos believes that neither its aggregate sales nor those of any of its
principal product groups are concentrated in or materially dependent upon any
single customer or small group of customers. Kronos' largest ten customers
accounted for approximately 25% of net sales in 2002. Neither Kronos' business
as a whole nor that of any of its principal product groups is seasonal to any
significant extent. Due in part to the increase in paint production in the
spring to meet the spring and summer painting season demand, TiO2 sales are
generally higher in the first half of the year than in the second half of the
year.
Employees
As of March 31, 2003, Kronos employed approximately 2,500 persons,
excluding LPC employees, with approximately 100 employees in the United States
and approximately 2,400 employees outside of the United States. Hourly employees
in production facilities worldwide, including LPC, are represented by a variety
of labor unions, with labor agreements having various expiration dates. Kronos
believes its labor relations are good.
Regulatory and Environmental Matters
Certain of Kronos' businesses are and have been engaged in the handling,
manufacture or use of substances or compounds that may be considered toxic or
hazardous within the meaning of applicable environmental laws. As with other
companies engaged in similar businesses, certain past and current operations and
products of Kronos have the potential to cause environmental or other damage.
Kronos has implemented and continues to implement various policies and programs
in an effort to minimize these risks. The policy of Kronos is to maintain
compliance with applicable environmental laws and regulations at all its
facilities and to strive to improve its environmental performance. It is
possible that future developments, such as stricter requirements of
environmental laws and enforcement policies thereunder, could adversely affect
Kronos' production, handling, use, storage, transportation, sale or disposal of
such substances as well as Kronos' consolidated financial position, results of
operations or liquidity.
Kronos' U.S. manufacturing operations are governed by federal environmental
and worker health and safety laws and regulations, principally the Resource
Conservation and Recovery Act ("RCRA"), the Occupational Safety and Health Act,
the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, the Toxic
Substances Control Act and the Comprehensive Environmental Response,
Compensation and Liability Act, as amended by the Superfund Amendments and
Reauthorization Act ("CERCLA"), as well as the state counterparts of these
statutes. Kronos believes LPC and a slurry facility owned by Kronos in Lake
Charles, Louisiana are in substantial compliance with applicable requirements of
these laws or compliance orders issued thereunder. Kronos has no other U.S.
plants. From time to time, Kronos' facilities may be subject to regulatory
enforcement under such statutes. Resolution of such matters typically involves
the establishment of compliance programs. Occasionally, resolution may result in
the payment of penalties, but to date such penalties have not involved amounts
having a material adverse effect on Kronos' consolidated financial position,
results of operations or liquidity.
Kronos' European and Canadian production facilities operate in an
environmental regulatory framework in which governmental authorities typically
are granted broad discretionary powers which allow them to issue operating
permits required for the plants to operate. Kronos believes that all its plants
are in substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws.
While the laws regulating operations of industrial facilities in Europe
vary from country to country, a common regulatory denominator is provided by the
European Union (the "EU"). Germany and Belgium are members of the EU and follow
its initiatives. Norway, although not a member, generally patterns its
environmental regulatory actions after the EU. Kronos believes that it has
obtained all required permits and is in substantial compliance with applicable
EU requirements, including EU Directive 92/112/EEC regarding establishment of
procedures for reduction and eventual elimination of pollution caused by waste
from the TiO2 industry.
At all of Kronos' sulfate plant facilities other than Fredrikstad, Norway,
Kronos recycles spent acid either through contracts with third parties or using
Kronos' own facilities. At its Fredrikstad, Norway plant, Kronos ships its spent
acid to a third party location where it is treated and disposed. Kronos has a
contract with a third party to treat certain by-products of its German
sulfate-process plants. Either party may terminate the contract after giving
four years advance notice with regard to its Nordenham, Germany plant. Under
certain circumstances, Kronos may terminate the contract after giving six months
notice with respect to treatment of by-products from the Leverkusen, Germany
plant.
Kronos' capital expenditures related to its ongoing environmental
protection and improvement programs in 2002 were approximately $5 million, and
are currently expected to be approximately $5 million in 2003.
Properties
Kronos currently operates five TiO2 plants in Europe (two in Leverkusen,
Germany; one in Nordenham, Germany; one in Langerbrugge, Belgium; and one in
Fredrikstad, Norway). In North America, Kronos has a TiO2 plant in Varennes,
Quebec, Canada and, through LPC, the manufacturing joint venture described
above, a one-half interest in a TiO2 plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Kronos
operates an ilmenite ore mine in Hauge i Dalane, Norway and also owns a TiO2
slurry plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana. See Note 7 to Kronos' audited
consolidated financial statements included in this information statement.
Kronos' principal German operating subsidiary leases the land under its
Leverkusen TiO2 production facility pursuant to a lease expiring in 2050. The
Leverkusen facility, with about one-third of Kronos' current TiO2 production
capacity, is located within an extensive manufacturing complex owned by Bayer
AG. Rent for the Leverkusen facility is periodically established by agreement
with Bayer AG for periods of at least two years at a time. Under a separate
supplies and services agreement expiring in 2011, Bayer provides some raw
materials, including chlorine and certain amounts of sulfuric acid, auxiliary
and operating materials and utilities services necessary to operate the
Leverkusen facility. Both the lease and the supplies and services agreement have
certain restrictions regarding Kronos' ability to transfer ownership or use of
the Leverkusen facility.
Kronos owns, directly or through its joint venture, all of its principal
production facilities described above, except for the land under the Leverkusen
and Fredrikstad facilities. Kronos has a governmental concession with an
unlimited term to operate its ilmenite mine in Norway.
Kronos has under lease various corporate and administrative offices located
in the U.S. and various sales offices located in the U.S., France, the
Netherlands, Denmark and the U.K.
Kronos' principal executive offices are located at Three Lincoln Centre,
5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite 1700, Dallas, Texas 75240-2697 and its telephone number
is (972) 233-1700.
Legal Proceedings
See "Regulatory and Environmental Matters" above.
Kronos' Belgian subsidiary and various of its Belgian employees are the
subject of an investigation by Belgian authorities relating to an accident
resulting in two fatalities that occurred in its Langerbrugge, Belgium facility
in October 2000. The investigation stage, which could ultimately result in civil
and criminal sanctions against Kronos, was completed in 2002. In May 2003, the
Belgian authorities referred the proceedings against Kronos' Belgian subsidiary
and certain of its Belgium employees to the criminal court for trial. The matter
has been set for trial in October 2003.
MANAGEMENT
Directors and Officers
As of the distribution date, the following persons are currently
anticipated to serve as Kronos' officers and directors. Each of the directors
below will be elected to serve until the next annual meeting of stockholders and
his successor has been elected and has been qualified, or until his earlier
death, resignation or removal. In connection with the distribution, Kronos will
seek to identify and elect one or more additional or substitute non-employee
directors prior to the distribution date.
Name Age Principal Positions and Directorships
- ---- ---- -------------------------------------
Harold C. Simmons.......................... 72 Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer
George E. Poston........................... 66 Director
Glenn R. Simmons........................... 75 Director
General Thomas P. Stafford (retired)....... 72 Director
Dr. R. Gerald Turner....................... 57 Director
Steven L. Watson........................... 52 Director
Dr. Ulfert Fiand........................... 55 Senior Vice President, Manufacturing and Technology
H. Joseph Maas............................. 51 Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing
Douglas C. Weaver.......................... 61 Senior Vice President, Development
Robert D. Graham........................... 48 Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary
Gregory M. Swalwell........................ 46 Vice President, Finance
John St. Wrba.............................. 46 Vice President and Treasurer
Kelly D. Luttmer........................... 40 Tax Director
Harold C. Simmons has been a director of NL since 1986, Chairman of the
Board of NL since 1987 and Chief Executive Officer of NL since July 2003. Mr.
Simmons has served as Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of
Kronos since August 2003. He has been Chairman of the Board of Valhi and Contran
since prior to 1998, was Chief Executive Officer of Valhi and Contran from prior
to 1998 to 2002, and was President of Valhi and Contran from prior to 1997 to
1998. Mr. Simmons has been an executive officer and/or director of various
companies related to Valhi and Contran since 1961. He is a brother of Glenn R.
Simmons.
George E. Poston has been a director of NL since 2002 and is anticipated to
become a director of Kronos as of the distribution date. He is President of
Poston Real Estate Co., a privately-held commercial real estate investment
company, and President of Poston Capital Co., a privately-held investment
company, since 1970. Mr. Poston is anticipated to become a member of Kronos'
Audit Committee and Management Development and Compensation Committee.
Glenn R. Simmons has been a director of NL since 1986 and is anticipated to
become a director of Kronos as of the distribution date. Mr. Simmons is Chairman
of the Board of Keystone Consolidated Industries, Inc. ("Keystone"), a steel
fabricated wire products, industrial wire and carbon steel rod company that is
affiliated with Contran, and CompX International Inc. ("CompX"), a manufacturer
of ergonomic computer support systems, precision ball bearing slides and
security products that is also affiliated with Contran. Since prior to 1998, Mr.
Simmons has been Vice Chairman of the Board of Valhi and Contran, a diversified
holding company that directly and through related entities holds approximately
92% of the outstanding common stock of Valhi. Mr. Simmons is also a director of
Titanium Metals Corporation, an integrated producer of titanium metal products
that is 40% owned by Valhi ("TIMET"). Mr. Simmons has been an executive officer
and/or director of various companies related to Valhi and Contran since 1969. He
is a brother of Harold C. Simmons.
General Thomas P. Stafford (retired) served as a director of NL from 1984
to 1986 and was re-appointed in February 2000. General Stafford is anticipated
to become a director of Kronos as of the distribution date. General Stafford was
a co-founder of and has been affiliated with Stafford, Burke and Hecker, Inc., a
Washington-based consulting firm, since 1982. He was selected as an astronaut in
1962, piloted Gemini VI in 1965 and commanded Gemini IX in 1966. In 1969,
General Stafford was named Chief of the Astronaut Office and was the Apollo X
commander for the first lunar module flight to the moon. He commanded the
Apollo-Soyuz joint mission with the Soviet cosmonauts in 1975. After his
retirement from the United States Air Force in 1979 as Lieutenant General, he
became Chairman of Gibraltar Exploration Limited, an oil and gas exploration and
production company, and served in that position until 1984, when he joined
General Technical Services, Inc., a consulting firm. In addition to serving as a
director of NL, General Stafford is a director of TIMET. General Stafford is
anticipated to become the Chairman of Kronos' Audit Committee and Management
Development and Compensation Committee.
Dr. R. Gerald Turner has been a director of NL since May 2003 and is
anticipated to become a director of Kronos as of the distribution date. Dr.
Turner has served since 1995 as President of Southern Methodist University in
Dallas, Texas. He held previous executive and administrative positions at the
University of Mississippi, the University of Oklahoma, and Pepperdine
University. He serves on the Board of Directors of J.C. Penney and American
Aadvantage Funds. Dr. Turner is anticipated to become a member of Kronos' Audit
Committee.
Steven L. Watson has been a director of NL since 2000 and is anticipated to
become a director of Kronos as of the distribution date. Mr. Watson has been
President and a director of Valhi and Contran since 1998, and Chief Executive
Officer of Valhi since 2002. Mr. Watson is also a director of CompX, Keystone
and TIMET. Mr. Watson has served as an executive officer and/or director of
various companies related to Valhi and Contran since 1980.
Dr. Ulfert Fiand has served as Senior Vice President, Manufacturing and
Technology of Kronos since August 2003. He has been KII's President of
Manufacturing and Technology since 2001. Dr. Fiand joined KII in 1988, and has
served as Group Leader and Director of Chloride Process Technology, Director of
Process Technology, and VP Production & Process Technology.
H. Joseph Maas has served as Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing of
Kronos since August 2003 and Vice President of Marketing Worldwide of Kronos
since prior to 1998. Mr. Maas has served in various positions with Kronos or NL
since 1978
Douglas C. Weaver has served as Senior Vice President, Development of
Kronos since August 2003 and Vice President, Business Development of Kronos
since prior to 1998. Mr. Weaver has served in various positions with Kronos or
NL since 1973.
Robert D. Graham has served as Vice President, General Counsel and
Secretary of NL since July 2003 and Vice President, General Counsel and
Secretary of Kronos since August 2003. Mr. Graham has served as Vice President
of Valhi and Contran since October 2002. From January 1997 to October 2002, Mr.
Graham served as an executive officer, and most recently as Executive Vice
President and General Counsel, of Software Spectrum, Inc. ("SSI"). SSI is a
global business-to-business software services provider that is a wholly owned
subsidiary of Level 3 Communications, Inc. From 1991 to June 2002, SSI was a
publicly held corporation. From 1985 to 1997, Mr. Graham was a partner in the
law firm of Locke Purnell Rain Harrell (A Professional Corporation), a
predecessor to Locke Liddell and Sapp LLP.
Gregory M. Swalwell has served as Vice President, Finance of NL since July
2003 and as Vice President, Finance of Kronos since August 2003. Mr. Swalwell
has served as Vice President of Valhi and Contran since 1998 and controller of
Valhi and Contran since prior to 1998. Mr. Swalwell has served in accounting
positions with various companies related to Valhi and Contran since 1988.
John A. St. Wrba has been Vice President and Treasurer of NL since February
2003 and Vice President and Treasurer of Kronos since August 2003. Mr. St. Wrba
was NL's Assistant Treasurer from 2002 to 2003. From 2000 to 2002, he was
Assistant Treasurer of Kaiser Aluminum & Chemicals Corporation.
Kelly D. Luttmer has served as Tax Director of NL since July 2003 and as
Tax Director of Kronos since August 2003. Ms. Luttmer has served as Tax Director
of Valhi and Contran since 1998. Prior to 1998, Ms. Luttmer served as assistant
tax manager of Valhi and Contran. Ms. Luttmer has served in tax accounting
positions with various companies related to Valhi and Contran since 1989.
In addition, Dr. Lawrence A. Wigdor, formerly Kronos' President and Chief
Executive Officer since 1990, serves as a consultant to Kronos with ongoing
management involvement in the TiO2 operations conducted by Kronos.
Board Committees
As of the distribution date, Kronos' Board will establish two standing
committees: an Audit Committee and a Management Development and Compensation
Committee, each of which is composed entirely of individuals who are not
employees of Kronos.
Audit Committee. The principal responsibilities of the Audit Committee are
to serve as an independent and objective party to review Kronos' auditing,
accounting and financial reporting processes. Kronos' Board of Directors has
adopted a written charter for the Audit Committee. Each of the members of the
Audit Committee is independent within the meaning of the New York Stock Exchange
listing standards. The members of the Audit Committee are anticipated to be
General Stafford (Chairman), Mr. Poston and Dr. Turner.
Management Development and Compensation Committee. The principal
responsibilities of the Management Development and Compensation Committee are to
review and make recommendations regarding executive compensation policies,
periodically to review and approve or make recommendations with respect to
matters involving executive compensation, to take action or to review and make
recommendations to the Board regarding employee benefit plans or programs, and
to serve as a counseling committee to the Chief Executive Officer regarding
matters of key personnel selection, organization strategies and such other
matters as the Board may from time to time direct. The Management Development
and Compensation Committee also is responsible for reviewing and approving stock
option and other stock-based compensation awards under Kronos' incentive plan
and for reviewing and approving Kronos' target and performance levels under
variable compensation awards. The members of the Management Development and
Compensation Committee are anticipated to be General Stafford (Chairman) and Mr.
Poston.
Compensation of Directors
Annual fees will be paid to each director who was not an employee of Kronos
or a subsidiary of Kronos consisting of an annual retainer of $20,000 for board
members and $2,000 for each committee on which a member serves, payable in
quarterly installments, and shares of Kronos common stock granted pursuant to
the Kronos Long-Term Incentive Plan, the number of shares to be determined based
on the closing sale price of Kronos common stock on the date of grant. In
addition, each non-employee director will receive an attendance fee of $1,000
for each day during which Board or committee meetings are held (including
telephonic meetings) that a director attends. Non-employee directors will also
receive a fee of $1,000 per day for each day spent on Kronos business at the
request of the Board or the Chairman of the Board, other than the day related to
Board or committee meetings. Directors will be reimbursed for reasonable
expenses incurred in attending Board of Directors and committee meetings. If any
director who is not an officer or employee of Kronos or any subsidiary or
affiliate of Kronos dies while in active service, his or her designated
beneficiary or estate will be entitled to receive a life insurance benefit equal
to the annual retainer then in effect.
Compensation of Executive Officers
The summary compensation table set forth below provides summary information
for the years ended December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000 regarding annual and
long-term compensation awarded to, earned by or paid to Kronos' former Chief
Executive Officer and one other Kronos executive officer for services they
rendered to Kronos and its subsidiaries (the "named executive officers").
SUMMARY COMPENSATION TABLE (1)
Long-Term
Compensation (2)
----------------
Annual Compensation Shares Awards
---------------------------------------------- ----------------
Name and Other Annual Underlying All Other
Principal Position Year Salary Bonus Compensation Options (#) Compensation
- -------------------------- ------ ------------- -------------- ------------------ ------------------ --------------
Dr. Ulfert Fiand 2002 $ 142,179 $ 99,501 $ -0- -0- $ -0-
Senior Vice President 2001 117,520 182,111 -0- 6,000 (3) -0-
Manufacturing and 2000 113,977 43,596 -0- 5,000 (3) -0-
Technology
Dr. Lawrence A. Wigdor (4) 2002 750,000 750,000 (5) 68 (6) -0- 186,848 (7)
Former Chief Executive 2001 750,000 1,350,000 (5) 2,729 (6) 100,000 (3) 351,658(7)
Officer 2000 750,000 2,625,000 (5) 6,815 (6) 100,000 (3) 132,038(7)
- ----------
(1) Certain employees of NL provided services to Kronos during the years ended
December 31, 2002, 2001 and 2000, including the services of Robert D.
Hardy, Kronos' former chief financial officer, pursuant to a Services
Agreement between NL, Kronos and KII dated as of January 1, 1995 and
amended as of April 1, 2002 (the "NL ISA"). NL's charges to Kronos under
the NL ISA for the services Mr. Hardy provided to Kronos are not
specifically identifiable to his services. However, KII paid Mr. Hardy a
bonus of $250,000 in 2001 outside of the NL ISA for services Mr. Hardy
rendered to KII. See "Certain Relationships and Related Transactions."
(2) No shares of restricted stock were granted to the named executive officers
nor payouts made to the named executive officers pursuant to long-term
incentive plans during the last three years. Therefore, the columns for
such compensation have been omitted.
(3) Represents options to purchase shares of common stock of NL. Upon exercise,
NL will bill Kronos the difference between the fair market value of the
shares issued upon exercise and the aggregate exercise price for such
shares.
(4) Dr. Wigdor resigned as Kronos' Chief Executive Officer in July 2003. Prior
to his resignation, Dr. Wigdor was an executive officer of NL and Kronos
and devoted all of his business time to Kronos. Accordingly, Kronos paid,
accrued or was charged for all of Dr. Wigdor's compensation. Dr. Wigdor
currently serves as a consultant to Kronos with ongoing management
involvement in the TiO2 operations conducted by Kronos.
(5) Amounts Kronos paid Dr. Wigdor pursuant to NL's variable compensation plan,
including in certain instances, discretionary bonus amounts.
(6) Theses amounts represent accruals on Dr. Wigdor's deferred compensation
that exceeded 120% of the applicable federal long-term interest rate.
(7) As shown below, all other compensation for 2002, 2001, and 2000 for Dr.
Wigdor consisted of (i) matching contributions Kronos made or accrued
pursuant to the savings feature of the NL savings plan, (ii) retirement
contributions Kronos made or accrued pursuant to the NL savings plan, (iii)
life insurance premiums Kronos paid and (iv) amounts Kronos paid under the
NL Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan ("SERP") in 2002 and 2001 and
amounts accrued by Kronos in 2000 under the SERP and paid by Kronos in
2001.
NL Savings
NL Savings Plan Life
Plan Retirement Insurance SERP
Named Executive Officer Year Match Contributions Premiums Payments Total
--------------------------- ------ ------------ -------------- -------- ------------ ---------
Lawrence A. Wigdor...... 2002 $ 8,000 $ 16,600 $ 10,248 $ 152,000 $ 186,848
2001 6,800 14,110 10,248 320,500 351,658
2000 10,200 14,110 9,328 98,400 132,038
In 2001, NL amended the SERP to provide for the distribution of the accrued
balance in each SERP participant's account and the payment of future SERP
benefits to participants as accrued, thus reducing Kronos' interest costs. In
connection with the amendment, in 2001 Kronos paid $1,761,661 to Dr. Wigdor,
which represented the accrued vested balance in his SERP account with interest.
These accrued amounts were previously reported as compensation in the years
accrued.
Stock Option Exercises and Holdings
The following table provides information with respect to the named
executive officers concerning the exercise of options during 2002 and the value
of unexercised options held as of December 31, 2002. The options described in
the following table are options to purchase shares of common stock of NL
pursuant to NL's 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan. No stock options or stock
appreciation rights were granted to the named executive officers during 2002.
AGGREGATE STOCK OPTION EXERCISES IN 2002 AND
DECEMBER 31, 2002 OPTION VALUES (1)
Shares Number of Shares
Acquired on Underlying Value of Unexercised
Exercise Unexercised Options at In-the-Money Options
Value December 31, 2002 (#) at December 31, 2002 (2)
----------------------------- ---------------------------
Name (#) Realized Exercisable Unexercisable Exercisable Unexercisable
- --------------------------- ----------- ---------------- ----------------------------- ------------- ---------------
Dr. Ulfert Fiand........... 0 $ 0 3,000 11,000 $ 10,979 $ 19,287
Dr. Lawrence A. Wigdor..... 4,547 27,846 (1) 96,000 217,600 14,040 288,207
- ----------
(1) In November 2002, NL entered into agreements with Dr. Wigdor and Robert D.
Hardy, Kronos' former chief financial officer, among others, whereby they
each exercised certain options to purchase NL common stock and thereafter
NL purchased certain of the shares acquired upon exercise, as well as
certain options to purchase NL common stock from each of them. For Dr.
Wigdor, the shares he acquired upon exercise and the value he realized upon
such exercise are reflected in the table above. For Mr. Hardy, he acquired
23,425 shares of NL common stock upon exercise and realized $127,458 upon
such exercise. Dr. Wigdor and Mr. Hardy tendered 3,000 shares and 16,344
shares, respectively, of their own shares of NL common stock, which each
had held for at least six months, to pay a portion of the stock option
exercise price and to pay applicable withholding taxes, as permitted under
NL's incentive plans. These shares were valued at the market price of NL
common stock on the date of exercise. In addition, NL purchased options to
purchase 155,835 shares of NL common stock and 25,575 shares of NL common
stock from Dr. Wigdor and Mr. Hardy, respectively. In the same
transactions, NL also purchased 1,547 shares of NL common stock from Dr.
Wigdor and 7,081 shares of NL common stock from Mr. Hardy. These options
were sold at a price equal to the market price of NL common stock on the
date of sale, less the exercise price of the options, and the shares were
sold at the market price of NL common stock on the date of sale. In
connection with the NL purchase of the options and shares, NL paid $655,288
to Dr. Wigdor and $216,936 to Mr. Hardy. NL charged Kronos $580,902 for all
of the foregoing transactions related to Dr. Wigdor but did not charge
Kronos anything for the foregoing transactions related to Mr. Hardy.
(2) The value is based on the difference between the exercise price of the
individual stock options and the $17.00 per share closing sales price of NL
common stock on December 31, 2002. At December 31, 2002, Mr. Hardy held
exercisable stock options to purchase 24,000 shares of NL common stock and
unexercisable stock options to purchase 86,000 shares of common stock.
Based on the difference between the exercise price of the individual stock
options and the $17.00 per share closing sales price of NL common stock on
December 31, 2002, the value of Mr. Hardy's exercisable and unexercisable
stock options to purchase NL common stock was nil and $97,724,
respectively.
Pension Plans
The Retirement Program of NL Industries, Inc. for its U.S. employees (the
"Pension Plan") provides lifetime retirement benefits to eligible employees. In
1996, NL approved the suspension of all future accruals under the salaried
component of the Pension Plan. The Pension Plan covers Dr. Wigdor and Mr. Hardy.
No amounts were paid or distributed to any of such persons in 2002. The
estimated accrued annual benefits payable under the Pension Plan upon retirement
at normal retirement age for Dr. Wigdor and Mr. Hardy are $29,439 and $12,348,
respectively.
Dr. Fiand is eligible to receive his pension through Kronos Germany through
the Bayer Pensionskasse and the Supplemental Pension Promise. All of KII's
employees in Germany (including wage earners) who have contributed for five
years and are less than 55 years of age are covered by the Bayer Pensionskasse.
Each employee contributes 2% of eligible earnings excluding bonus, up to the
social security contribution ceiling (currently (euro)54,000) and the Bayer
Pensionskasse provides a benefit of 44% of such employee's accumulated
contributions (with a minimum benefit of approximately (euro)13 per month). All
of KII's employees in Germany who have completed 10 years of service are also
covered by the Supplemental Pension Promise. Kronos Germany accrues 11.25% of
participants' eligible annual earnings excluding bonus in excess of the social
security contribution ceiling, up to a maximum of (euro)98,500. The Supplemental
Pension Promise provides an annual retirement benefit of 20% of all accruals
made by Kronos Germany. Benefits for both plans are payable upon retirement and
the attainment of ages specified in the plans. No amounts were paid or
distributed under these plans to Dr. Fiand in 2002. The estimated accrued annual
benefits payable upon normal retirement at normal retirement age for Dr. Fiand
is (euro)24,425.
Compensatory Plans and Arrangements
Summarized below are certain benefit arrangements, other than arrangements
applicable to all employees generally, that have been established for the
benefit of Kronos' named executive officers following the distribution.
Concurrently with his resignation as Chief Executive Officer of Kronos in
July 2003, Dr. Wigdor entered into a consultancy arrangement with Kronos
pursuant to which Dr. Wigdor will provide ongoing management involvement in
Kronos' TiO2 operations. Dr. Wigdor received $461,000 on August 1, 2003 and will
receive a monthly payment of $84,000 beginning on August 1, 2003. If Kronos
achieves 2003 operating income of $130 million, Kronos will pay Dr. Wigdor an
additional $461,000 on February 1, 2004. Beginning in 2004, Dr. Wigdor will
receive annual discretionary bonuses that are no less than the average bonus
paid to the three executives of NL and Kronos combined receiving the highest
paid bonuses for 2004 and 2005, respectively, excluding the Chief Executive
Officer of NL. If Kronos terminates the consultancy arrangement prior to
September 30, 2005, Dr. Wigdor will receive eight months compensation, medical
and dental coverage through September 30, 2005 and, if terminated in 2004 or
after, a pro-rata portion of his discretionary bonus for the year in which the
termination occurs. The arrangement provides Dr. Wigdor various other benefits,
such as an office and secretarial support at Kronos' New Jersey office.
Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation
No member of Kronos' compensation committee is a current or former officer
or employee of Kronos or its subsidiaries or has had a relationship requiring
disclosure by Kronos under applicable federal securities regulations. No
executive officer of Kronos served as a director or member of the compensation
committee of any entity that has one or more executive officers serving as a
member of Kronos' Board of Directors or compensation committee.
PRINCIPAL STOCKHOLDERS
Ownership of NL and Kronos Common Stock
The following table sets forth the number of shares of NL common stock and
Kronos common stock that is beneficially owned, as defined by the regulations of
the SEC, as of __________, 2003 and the approximate number and percentage of
shares of Kronos common stock that will be beneficially owned immediately
following the distribution date, based on the number of outstanding shares of
Kronos common stock as of _______, 2003 and a distribution of one share of
Kronos common stock for every two shares of NL common stock as of the record
date, by each of Kronos' directors, the named executive officers, all Kronos
current executive officers and directors as a group and each other person known
to Kronos who will beneficially own 5% or more of Kronos common stock after the
distribution. As a result of the application of the foregoing assumptions,
Kronos expects to have an estimated 48.8 million shares of Kronos common stock
outstanding immediately after the completion of the distribution, although the
actual number of shares that will be outstanding will not be determinable until
after the record date. All information is taken from or based upon ownership
filings made by such persons with the SEC or information provided by such
persons to Kronos.
Number of Percentage
Shares of of Kronos
Kronos Common
Common Stock Number of Shares Stock
Number of Shares of NL Owned on of Kronos Common Owned
Common Stock Owned on ________, Stock Owned After After the
Name ________, 2003 (1) 2003 (1) the Distribution (1) Distribution
- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------- ------------ -------------------- ------------
NL Industries, Inc...................... -0- 1,000 (2) 24,924,670 (3) 51.1%
Valhi, Inc.............................. 30,135,390(3) -0- 15,067,695 (3) 30.9%
Tremont LLC............................. 10,215,541(3) -0- 5,107,770 (3) 10.5%
------------- ------- ---------- ----
40,350,931(3) 1,000 45,100,135 (3) 92.5%
George E. Poston........................ 2,000 -0- 1,000 (3) *
Glenn R. Simmons........................ 12,000(3)(4) -0- 2,000 (3) *
Harold C. Simmons....................... 83,475(3)(5) -0- 37,737 (3)(6) *
General Thomas P. Stafford (retired).... 10,000(7) -0- 2,000 (3) *
Dr. R. Gerald Turner.................... 1,000 -0- 500 (3) *
Steven L. Watson........................ 11,000(3)(8) -0- 3,500 (3) *
Dr. Lawrence A. Wigdor.................. 196,800(3)(9) -0- 1,500 (3) *
Dr. Ulfert Fiand........................ 7,400(10) -0- -0- *
All current executive officers and
directors of Kronos as a group (11
persons)............................ 323,675 (3)(4)(5) -0- 48,237 (3)(6) *
(6)(7)(8)(9)
(10)(11)
* Less than 1%.
(1) All beneficial ownership is sole and direct unless otherwise noted.
(2) Prior to the distribution, Kronos is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NL.
(3) Valhi and Tremont are the direct holders of approximately 63.2% and 21.4%,
respectively, of the outstanding common stock of NL. Valhi is the direct
holder of 100% of the membership interests of Tremont. Valhi Group, Inc.
("VGI"), National City Lines, Inc. ("National"), Contran, the Harold
Simmons Foundation, Inc. (the "Foundation"), the Contran Deferred
Compensation Trust No. 2 (the "CDCT No. 2") and The Combined Master
Retirement Trust (the "CMRT") are the direct holders of approximately
77.6%, 9.1%, 2.9%, 1.3%, 0.4% and 0.1%, respectively, of the outstanding
shares of Valhi common stock. National, NOA, Inc. ("NOA") and Dixie Holding
Company ("Dixie Holding") are the direct holders of approximately 73.3%,
11.4% and 15.3%, respectively, of the outstanding common stock of VGI.
Contran and NOA are the direct holders of approximately 85.7% and 14.3%,
respectively, of the outstanding common stock of National. Contran and
Southwest Louisiana Land Company, Inc. ("Southwest") are the direct holders
of approximately 48.9% and 51.1%, respectively, of the outstanding common
stock of NOA. Dixie Rice Agricultural Corporation, Inc. ("Dixie Rice") is
the direct holder of 100% of the outstanding common stock of Dixie Holding.
Contran is the holder of 100% of the outstanding common stock of Dixie Rice
and approximately 88.9% of the outstanding common stock of Southwest.
Substantially all of Contran's outstanding voting stock is held by trusts
established for the benefit of certain children and grandchildren of Harold
C. Simmons (the "Trusts"), of which Mr. Simmons is the sole trustee. As
sole trustee of each of the Trusts, Mr. Simmons has the power to vote and
direct the disposition of the shares of Contran stock held by each of the
Trusts. Harold C. Simmons is the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of NL, the Chairman of the Board of each of Tremont, Valhi, VGI,
National, NOA, Dixie Holding, Dixie Rice, Southwest and Contran and, as of
the distribution date, is anticipated to be the Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer of Kronos. The Foundation directly holds
approximately 1.3% of the outstanding shares of Valhi common stock. The
Foundation is a tax-exempt foundation organized for charitable purposes.
Harold C. Simmons is the Chairman of the Board of the Foundation and may be
deemed to control the Foundation. The CDCT No. 2 directly holds
approximately 0.4% of the outstanding shares of Valhi common stock. U.S.
Bank National Association serves as the trustee of the CDCT No. 2. Contran
established the CDCT No. 2 as an irrevocable "rabbi trust" to assist
Contran in meeting certain deferred compensation obligations that it owes
to Harold C. Simmons. If the CDCT No. 2 assets are insufficient to satisfy
such obligations, Contran is obligated to satisfy the balance of such
obligations as they come due. Pursuant to the terms of the CDCT No. 2,
Contran (i) retains the power to vote the shares of Valhi common stock held
directly by the CDCT No. 2, (ii) retains dispositive power over such shares
and (iii) may be deemed the indirect beneficial owner of such shares. The
CMRT directly holds approximately 0.1% of the outstanding shares of Valhi
common stock. Valhi established the CMRT to permit the collective
investment by master trusts that maintain the assets of certain employee
benefit plans Valhi and related companies adopt. Harold C. Simmons is the
sole trustee of the CMRT and a member of the trust investment committee for
the CMRT. Valhi's board of directors selects the trustee and members of the
trust investment committee for the CMRT. Harold C. Simmons, Glenn R.
Simmons, Steven L. Watson, Lawrence A. Wigdor and certain other executive
officers of Kronos are participants in one or more of the employee benefit
plans that invest through the CMRT. Each of such persons disclaims
beneficial ownership of the shares of Valhi common stock held by the CMRT,
except to the extent of his individual vested beneficial interest, if any,
in the assets held by the CMRT. By virtue of the holding of the offices,
the stock ownership and his services as trustee, all as described above,
(a) Harold C. Simmons may be deemed to control such entities and (b) Mr.
Simmons and certain of such entities may be deemed to possess indirect
beneficial ownership of shares directly held by certain of such other
entities. However, Mr. Simmons disclaims such beneficial ownership of the
shares beneficially owned directly or indirectly by any of such entities,
except to the extent of his vested beneficial interest, if any, in shares
held by the CMRT and his interest as a beneficiary of the CDCT No. 2. Mr.
Harold Simmons and all other directors and executive officers of Valhi or
NL disclaim beneficial ownership of all shares of NL common stock or Kronos
common stock that NL, Valhi or Tremont may directly hold, as applicable.
Valmont Insurance Company ("Valmont"), NL and a subsidiary of NL directly
own 1,000,000, 3,522,967 and 1,186,200 shares of Valhi common stock,
respectively. Valhi is the direct holder of 100% of the outstanding common
stock of Valmont. Pursuant to Delaware law, Valhi treats the shares of
Valhi common stock that Valmont, NL, and the subsidiary of NL own as
treasury stock for voting purposes. For the purposes of the percentage
calculations herein, such shares are not deemed outstanding. The business
address of NL, Valhi, Tremont, VGI, National, NOA, Dixie Holding, the CMRT,
the Foundation and Contran is Three Lincoln Centre, 5430 LBJ Freeway, Suite
1700, Dallas, Texas 75240-2697. The business address of Dixie Rice is 600
Pasquiere Street, Gueydan, Louisiana 70542. The business address of
Southwest is 402 Canal Street, Houma, Louisiana 70360.
(4) The shares of NL common stock shown as beneficially owned include 8,000
shares that Glenn R. Simmons has the right to acquire by exercise of
options within 60 days of _________, 2003 under NL's 1998 Long-Term
Incentive Plan (the "1998 Incentive Plan").
(5) The shares of NL common stock shown as beneficially owned by Harold C.
Simmons include 69,475 shares held by Harold C. Simmons' wife with respect
to which beneficial ownership is disclaimed by Mr. Simmons and 8,000 shares
which Mr. Simmons has the right to acquire by exercise of options within 60
days of _________, 2003 under the 1998 Incentive Plan.
(6) The shares of Kronos common stock shown as beneficially owned by Harold C.
Simmons include 34,737 shares held by Harold C. Simmons' wife with respect
to which beneficial ownership is disclaimed by Mr. Simmons.
(7) The shares of NL common stock shown as beneficially owned include 6,000
shares that General Stafford has the right to acquire by exercise of
options within 60 days of _________, 2003 under the 1998 Incentive Plan.
(8) The shares of NL common stock shown as beneficially owned include 4,000
shares that Mr. Watson has the right to acquire by exercise of options
within 60 days of ________, 2003 under the 1998 Incentive Plan and NL's
1989 Incentive Plan (collectively, the "Incentive Plans").
(9) The shares of NL common stock shown as beneficially owned include 193,800
shares that Dr. Wigdor has the right to acquire by exercise of options
within 60 days of ________, 2003 under the Incentive Plans.
(10) The shares of NL common stock shown as beneficially comprise 7,400 shares
of NL common stock that Dr. Fiand has the right to acquire by exercise of
options within 60 days of ___________, 2003.
(11) The shares of NL common stock shown as beneficially owned include 227,200
shares of NL common stock that all current executive officers and directors
of Kronos as a group (11 persons) have the right to acquire by exercise of
options within 60 days of ___________, 2003.
Ownership of Valhi Common Stock
The following table and accompanying notes set forth as of ___________,
2003 the beneficial ownership, as defined above, of Valhi common stock held by
each director of Kronos, each named executive officer and all current executive
officers and directors of Kronos as a group. See note (3) to the ownership of NL
and Kronos common stock table above for information concerning individuals and
entities who may be deemed to indirectly beneficially own those shares of NL
common stock directly beneficially held by Valhi or Tremont. All information is
taken from or based upon ownership filings made by such persons with the SEC or
information provided by such persons to Kronos.
Valhi Common Stock
Amount and Nature of Beneficial
Name Ownership(1) Percent of Class(2)
- -------------------------------------------- ------------------------------- -------------------
George E. Poston........................... -0- -0-
Glenn R. Simmons........................... 113,247 (3)(4) *
Harold C. Simmons.......................... 3,383 (3) *
General Thomas P. Stafford (retired)....... -0- *
Dr. R. Gerald Turner....................... -0- *
Steven L. Watson........................... 157,246 (3)(4) *
Dr. Lawrence A. Wigdor..................... -0- -0-
Dr. Ulfert Fiand........................... -0- -0-
All current executive officers and directors
of Kronos as a group (11 persons)...... 360,442 (3)(4) *
- -----------
* Less than 1%.
(1) All beneficial ownership is sole and direct unless otherwise noted.
(2) For purposes of calculating the percent of class owned, 3,522,967 shares of
Valhi common stock held by NL, 1,186,200 shares of Valhi common stock held
by a subsidiary of NL and 1,000,000 shares of Valhi common stock held by
Valmont are excluded from the amount of Valhi common stock outstanding.
Kronos understands that, pursuant to Delaware law, Valhi treats these
excluded shares as treasury stock for voting purposes.
(3) Excludes certain shares that may be deemed to be indirectly beneficially
owned by such individual as to which he disclaims beneficial ownership. See
note (3) to the ownership of NL and Kronos common stock table above.
(4) Includes shares that such person or group could acquire upon the exercise
of stock options within 60 days of __________, 2003. During such 60-day
period, options for 100,000 shares of Valhi common stock are exercisable by
Glenn R. Simmons, options for 140,000 shares of Valhi common stock are
exercisable by Steven L. Watson and options for 85,400 shares of Valhi
common stock are exercisable by all other Kronos executive officers as a
group. In each case, only the shares exercisable by the particular option
holder during such 60-day period are deemed outstanding for purposes of
calculating the percent of class owned by such holder. For Mr. Glenn
Simmons, of the shares reported that he beneficially owns, 800 shares are
held by his wife in her retirement account, with respect to which he
disclaims beneficial ownership.
CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS
Prior to the distribution, Kronos is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NL. At
_________, 2003, Valhi and Tremont held a total of approximately 85% of NL's
outstanding common stock. At _________, 2003, Contran, directly or through its
subsidiaries, held approximately 90% of Valhi's outstanding common stock.
Substantially all of Contran's outstanding voting stock is held by trusts
established for the benefit of certain children and grandchildren of Harold C.
Simmons, of which Mr. Simmons is the sole trustee. Mr. Simmons is the Chairman
of the Board of each of Contran, Valhi and Tremont and the Chairman of the Board
and Chief Executive Officer of NL, and may be deemed to control each such
company and Kronos. Following the distribution date, Mr. Simmons is anticipated
to be the Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Kronos, and will
still be deemed to control Kronos. See "Principal Stockholders." For a
discussion of potential conflicts of interest that may arise in connection with
Kronos' ownership structure, see "Risk Factors--NL and its affiliates may have
conflicts of interest with Kronos, and these conflicts could adversely affect
Kronos' business."
Corporations that may be deemed to be controlled by or affiliated with Mr.
Simmons sometimes engage in (a) intercorporate transactions such as guarantees,
management and expense sharing arrangements, shared fee arrangements, tax
sharing agreements, joint ventures, partnerships, loans, options, advances of
funds on open account, and sales, leases and exchanges of assets, including
securities issued by both related and unrelated parties and (b) common
investment and acquisition strategies, business combinations, reorganizations,
recapitalizations, securities repurchases, and purchases and sales (and other
acquisitions and dispositions) of subsidiaries, divisions or other business
units, which transactions have involved both related and unrelated parties and
have included transactions which resulted in the acquisition by one related
party of a publicly held minority equity interest in another related party.
While no transactions of the type described above are planned or proposed with
respect to Kronos other than as set forth in this information statement, Kronos
continuously considers, reviews and evaluates, and understands that Contran,
Valhi, Tremont and NL and related entities consider, review and evaluate, such
transactions. Depending upon the business, tax and other objectives then
relevant, and restrictions under the indentures and other agreements, it is
possible that Kronos might be a party to one or more such transactions in the
future.
Kronos' policy is to engage in transactions with related parties on terms,
in Kronos' opinion, no less favorable to Kronos than could be obtained from
unrelated parties.
Kronos is a party to intercorporate services agreements ("ISAs") with
various related parties discussed below. Under the ISAs, employees of one
company will provide certain management, tax planning, financial and
administrative services to the other company on a fee basis. Such charges are
based upon estimates of the time devoted by employees (or in certain instances,
groups of employees) of the provider of the services to the affairs of the
recipient, and the compensation of such persons.
Under the NL ISA, NL provides certain management, financial and
administrative services to Kronos and its subsidiaries on a fee basis.
Intercorporate services fee expense related to the NL ISA was $5.0 million in
2000, $3.5 million in 2001 and $3.7 million in 2002, and $.9 million in the
first quarter of 2003. Under the NL ISA and included in the total fee NL charged
Kronos in 2000 and 2001, Kronos paid fees of approximately $1.7 million and $1.4
million for tax and controller services, respectively, which included the amount
Kronos paid NL for the services of Robert D. Hardy as tax director and
controller of Kronos. Under the NL ISA and included in the total fee NL charged
Kronos in 2002 and the first quarter of 2003, Kronos paid fees of approximately
$1.4 million and $0.4 million for chief financial, tax and treasury services,
respectively, which included the amount Kronos paid NL for the services of
Robert D. Hardy as chief financial officer of Kronos. NL's charges to Kronos
under the NL ISA for the services Mr. Hardy provided to Kronos are not
specifically identifiable to his services. However, KII paid Mr. Hardy a bonus
of $250,000 in 2001 outside of the NL ISA for services Mr. Hardy rendered to
KII.
From time to time, Kronos loans funds to related parties. See Notes 11 and
13 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included in this
information statement. These loans permit Kronos to earn a higher rate of return
on cash not needed at the time for use in its operations than it could otherwise
earn. While such loans are of a lesser credit quality than cash equivalent
instruments otherwise available to Kronos, Kronos believes that it has evaluated
the credit risks involved, and that those risks are reasonable and reflected in
the terms of the loans. Interest income from affiliates related to such loans
was $20.3 million in 2000, $33.4 million in 2001 and $20.8 million in 2002, and
$.4 million in the first quarter of 2003.
Interest expense on loans from affiliates was $29.0 million in 2000, $23.0
million in 2001 and $12.3 million in 2002, and $.4 million in the first quarter
of 2003. See Note 11 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements
included in this information statement. See also "Relationships Among NL, Kronos
and Their Affiliates--Outstanding Debt to NL."
Tall Pines Insurance Company ("Tall Pines"), Valmont Insurance Company
("Valmont") and EWI provide for or broker certain of Kronos' and LPC's and its
affiliates' insurance policies. A son-in-law of Harold C. Simmons is the
Chairman of the Board of EWI. Kronos purchased EWI from certain affiliates of
Contran in January 2002, and Kronos distributed EWI to NL as a dividend in June
2003. See Notes 3, 18 and 23 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial
statements included in this information statement. Consistent with insurance
industry practices, Tall Pines, Valmont and EWI receive commissions from the
insurance and reinsurance underwriters for the policies that they provide or
broker. Kronos and LPC paid approximately $5.6 million in 2000, $9.7 million in
2001 and $10.1 million in 2002, and $.8 million in the first quarter of 2003,
for policies provided or brokered by Tall Pines, Valmont and EWI. The premiums
paid by affiliates (other than Kronos and LPC) for policies provided or brokered
by EWI was approximately $7.6 million in 2002 and $1.6 million in the first
quarter of 2003. These amounts principally included payments for reinsurance and
insurance premiums paid to unrelated third parties, but also included
commissions paid to Tall Pines, Valmont and EWI. In Kronos' opinion, the amounts
that Kronos paid for these insurance policies and the allocation among Kronos
and its affiliates of relative insurance premiums are reasonable and similar to
those they could have obtained through unrelated insurance companies and/or
brokers. Kronos expects that these relationships with Tall Pines, Valmont and
EWI will continue through 2003.
During 2000, NL and an officer of both Kronos and NL entered into an
agreement whereby stock options held by the officer to purchase an aggregate of
100,000 shares of NL's common stock were exercised. On a net basis, NL made
aggregate cash payments to the officer of approximately $1.3 million and NL
charged Kronos an equivalent amount for stock compensation expense.
During 2002, NL and an officer of both Kronos and NL entered into an
agreement whereby stock options held by the officer to purchase an aggregate of
160,400 shares of NL's common stock were exercised or canceled for value. On a
net basis, NL made aggregate cash payments to the officer of approximately $.7
million, and NL charged Kronos an equivalent amount for stock compensation
expense.
Purchases of TiO2 from LPC were $92.5 million in 2000, $93.4 million in
2001 and $92.4 million in 2002, and $27.7 million in the first quarter of 2003.
See Notes 7 and 18 to Kronos' audited consolidated financial statements included
in this information statement.
Kronos is a member of NL's consolidated U.S. federal income tax group.
Kronos is currently a party to a U.S. federal tax sharing agreement with NL.
Effective January 1, 2001, NL and its qualifying subsidiaries, including Kronos
and its qualifying subsidiaries were included in the consolidated U.S. federal
tax return of Contran. As such, Kronos is a party to a tax sharing agreement
that provides that Kronos will compute its provision for U.S. income taxes on a
separate-company basis using the tax elections made by Contran. Pursuant to the
tax sharing agreement, Kronos makes payments to or receives payments from NL in
amounts it would have paid to or received from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service
had it not been a member of the NL's consolidated tax group but instead was a
separate taxpayer. Pursuant to its tax sharing agreement with NL, Kronos made
payments to NL of $11.2 million in 2000, $7.7 million in 2001 and $5.3 million
in 2002 and no payment was made in the first quarter of 2003.
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
Currently, Kronos' authorized capital stock consists of 1,000 shares of
common stock, par value $10.00 per share, of which 1,000 shares are issued and
outstanding. NL owns all of the shares of Kronos common stock. Prior to the
distribution, Kronos will amend and restate its Certificate of Incorporation and
Bylaws, and the following descriptions of Kronos common stock assume that such
Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation (the "Certificate of
Incorporation") and Amended and Restated Bylaws (the "Bylaws") are in effect.
Immediately prior to the distribution, Kronos will recapitalize its capital
stock so that (i) Kronos' authorized capital stock consists of 60 million shares
of common stock, par value $.01 per share, and 100,000 shares of preferred
stock, par value $.01 per share, and (ii) the 1,000 shares of Kronos'
outstanding common stock is reclassified into 48.8 million shares. On the
distribution date and following the distribution of approximately 23.85 million
shares of Kronos common stock held by NL to its shareholders, Kronos will have
approximately 48.8 million shares of Kronos common stock outstanding and
approximately 6,000 holders of record. No shares of Kronos' preferred stock are
currently outstanding.
The following description of Kronos' capital stock is intended as a summary
and is qualified in its entirety by reference to the forms of the Certificate of
Incorporation and Bylaws filed as exhibits to the registration statement on Form
10, of which this information statement forms a part, and to Delaware corporate
law.
Common Stock
Voting Rights
The holders of Kronos common stock are entitled to one vote per share on
all matters to be voted on by stockholders. Holders of Kronos common stock are
not entitled to cumulate their votes in the election of directors. Generally, at
a meeting at which a quorum is present, all matters on which stockholders vote
must be approved by a majority of the votes entitled to be cast by all shares of
common stock present in person or represented by proxy, subject to any voting
rights granted to holders of any preferred stock. Except as otherwise provided
by law, and subject to any voting rights granted to holders of any outstanding
preferred stock, amendments to the Certificate of Incorporation must be approved
by holders of a majority of all outstanding shares of common stock.
Dividends
Holders of common stock will share ratably in any dividend declared by
Kronos' Board of Directors, subject to any preferential rights of any
outstanding preferred stock.
Other Rights
In the event of any merger or consolidation of Kronos with or into another
company in connection with which shares of common stock are converted into or
exchangeable for shares of stock, other securities or property (including cash),
all holders of common stock will be entitled to receive the same kind and amount
of shares of stock and other securities and property (including cash).
If Kronos is liquidated, dissolved or wound up after payment to creditors,
Kronos will pay the full amounts required to be paid to holders of shares of any
outstanding preferred stock before Kronos makes any payments to holders of
shares of Kronos common stock. All holders of shares of Kronos common stock are
entitled to share ratably in any assets available for distribution to these
holders, after all of Kronos' other creditors and preferred stockholders have
been satisfied.
No shares of Kronos common stock may be redeemed. Holders of shares of
Kronos common stock do not have any preemptive rights to purchase additional
shares of Kronos common stock.
Preferred Stock
Kronos may issue up to 100,000 shares of preferred stock in one or more
classes or series and with the terms of each class or series stated in Kronos'
Board of Director's resolutions providing for the designation and issue of that
class or series. The Certificate of Incorporation authorizes Kronos' Board of
Directors to determine the dividend, voting, conversion, redemption and
liquidation preferences, rights, privileges and limitations pertaining to each
class or series of preferred stock that Kronos issues.
Kronos believes that the ability of its Board of Directors to issue one or
more series of preferred stock will provide Kronos with flexibility in
structuring possible future financings and acquisitions, and in meeting other
corporate needs which might arise. The authorized shares of Kronos preferred
stock, as well as authorized shares of Kronos common stock, will be available
for issuance without further action by Kronos' stockholders, unless such action
is required by applicable law or the rules of any stock exchange or automated
quotation system on which Kronos' securities may be listed or traded. The New
York Stock Exchange currently requires shareholder approval in several
instances, including where the present or potential issuance of shares could
result in an increase in the number of shares of common stock, or in the amount
of voting securities, outstanding of at least 20%. If Kronos stockholder
approval is not required for the issuance of shares of preferred or common
stock, Kronos' Board of Directors may determine not to seek stockholder
approval.
Provisions That May Have an Anti-Takeover Effect
Some provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation and the Bylaws
summarized below may be deemed to have an anti-takeover effect and may delay,
deter or prevent a tender offer or takeover attempt that some, or a majority, of
Kronos' stockholders might believe to be in their best interests or in which
stockholders might receive a premium for their stock over the then-current
market price of such stock.
Board of Directors
The Bylaws provide that, subject to any rights of holders of preferred
stock to elect additional directors under specified circumstances, the number of
directors of Kronos consisting of one or more members shall be fixed from time
to time by resolution adopted by the affirmative vote of a majority of the Board
of Directors or pursuant to the action of the stockholders. In addition, the
Certificate of Incorporation and the Bylaws provide that newly created
directorships resulting from any increase in the authorized number of directors
or any vacancies in the Board of Directors resulting from death, resignation,
disqualification or removal may be filled only by a majority vote of the
directors then in office.
Amendments to the Certificate of Incorporation and Bylaws
The Certificate of Incorporation generally provides that the Bylaws and
certain provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation may be altered, amended
or repealed by the affirmative vote of the holders of at least the majority of
Kronos' securities entitled to vote in the election of directors. The Bylaws may
be altered, amended or repealed by a majority vote of Kronos' Board of Directors
or its stockholders.
Preferred Stock
Kronos' Board of Directors could issue a series of preferred stock that
could, depending on the terms of such series, delay, defer or prevent a change
in control of Kronos. Kronos' Board of Directors will make any determination to
issue such shares based on its judgment as to the best interests of Kronos and
its stockholders. Kronos' Board of Directors, in so acting, could issue
preferred stock having terms that could discourage an acquisition attempt
through which an acquiror may be able to change the composition of Kronos' Board
of Directors, including a tender offer or other transaction that some, or a
majority, of Kronos' stockholders might believe to be in their best interests or
in which stockholders might receive a premium for their stock over the
then-current market price of such stock.
Advance Notice Provisions for Stockholder Proposals or Director Nominations
For stockholder proposals or director nominations to be brought before an
annual meeting of stockholders, the Bylaws require that the proposal or
nomination must be delivered or mailed to the principal executive offices of
Kronos no later than 45 days prior to the earlier of the date (as if in the
current year) on which notice of the date of the last annual meeting was mailed
or public disclosure of the date the meeting was made. If Kronos did not mail or
publicly disclose the date of the last annual meeting or Kronos has moved the
date of the annual meeting by 30 days from the date of the last annual meeting
(as if in the current year), the stockholder proposal or nomination must be
delivered or mailed to the principal executive offices of Kronos no later than
90 days prior to the meeting. With respect to an election of directors to be
held at a special meeting of stockholders, stockholder director nominations must
be delivered or mailed to the principal executive offices of Kronos no later
than the tenth day following the date on which notice of such meeting is first
given to stockholders.
Liability and Indemnification of Directors and Officers
Delaware General Corporation Law, the Certificate of Incorporation and the
Bylaws contain provisions relating to the limitation of liability and
indemnification of Kronos' directors and officers.
The Certificate of Incorporation provides that Kronos' directors are not
personally liable to Kronos or its stockholders for monetary damages for breach
of their fiduciary duties as directors to the fullest extent permitted by
Delaware law. Existing Delaware law permits the elimination or limitation of
directors' personal liability to Kronos or its stockholders for monetary damages
for breach of their fiduciary duties as directors, except liability for:
o any breach of a director's duty of loyalty to Kronos or its
stockholders;
o acts or omissions not in good faith or involving intentional
misconduct or a knowing violation of law;
o any transaction from which a director derived improper personal
benefit;
o the unlawful payment of dividends; and
o unlawful stock repurchases or redemptions.
Because of these exculpation provisions, stockholders may be unable to
recover monetary damages against directors for actions taken by them that
constitute negligence or that otherwise violate their fiduciary duties as
directors, although it may be possible to obtain injunctive or other equitable
relief with respect to such actions. If equitable remedies are not available to
stockholders, stockholders may not have an effective remedy against a director
in connection with the director's conduct.
The Certificate of Incorporation provides as follows:
o Kronos must, to the fullest extent permitted by law, indemnify any and
all of its officers and directors;
o Kronos may, to the fullest extent permitted by law or such lesser
extent as is determined in the discretion of the Board of Directors,
indemnify all other persons; and
o Kronos may advance expenses to all persons to whom it has the power to
indemnify.
The Bylaws provide as follows:
o Kronos must indemnify its directors and officers to the fullest extent
permitted under Delaware law;
o Kronos must advance reasonable expenses (including attorneys' fees) of
a director or officer for an indemnifiable claim upon receipt of a
written affirmation by the director or officer of his or her good
faith belief that he or she has met the standard of conduct necessary
for indemnification and a written undertaking by or on behalf of the
director or officer to repay such amount if it shall ultimately be
determined that he or she is not entitled to by indemnified by Kronos
as authorized in the Bylaws;
o if Kronos receives a claim for indemnification of expenses of an
indemnifiable claim and does not pay the claim within 30 days of its
receipt, the claimant may bring suit to recover the unpaid amount and,
if successful in whole or in part, the claimant will also be entitled
to be paid the expenses of prosecuting such claim; and
o Kronos may grant rights of indemnification and advancement of expenses
to any person who is not at the time a current director or officer of
Kronos.
Additionally, Kronos will seek to obtain directors and officers liability
insurance prior to the distribution.
Transfer Agent
The transfer agent and registrar for Kronos common stock is EquiServe Trust
Co., N.A. The contact information for the transfer agent and registrar is:
EquiServe Trust Co., N.A.
P.O. Box 43069
Providence, Rhode Island 02940-3069
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
This information statement is part of a Form 10 registration statement that
Kronos filed with the SEC relating to the shares of Kronos common stock to be
distributed to NL shareholders. As allowed by SEC rules, this information
statement does not contain all of the information that you can find in the Form
10 or the exhibits to the Form 10. You can get a copy of the Form 10 (SEC File
No. 001-_____):
o at the Public Reference Room of the SEC, Room 1024, Judiciary Plaza,
450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549; and
o from the Internet site that the SEC maintains at http://www.sec.gov,
which contains reports, proxy and information statements and other
information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.
You may obtain information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference
Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.
After the distribution, Kronos will be required to comply with the
reporting requirements of the Exchange Act and to file with the SEC reports,
proxy statements and other information as required by the Exchange Act.
Additionally, Kronos will be required to provide annual reports containing
audited financial statements to its stockholders in connection with its annual
meetings of stockholders. After the distribution, these reports, proxy
statements and other information will be available to be inspected and copied at
the public reference facilities of the SEC or obtained by mail or over the
Internet from the SEC, as described above. Kronos expects to receive approval,
subject to official notice of issuance, to have its common stock listed on the
New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "___." When Kronos common stock
commences trading on the New York Stock Exchange, such reports, proxy statements
and other information will be available for inspection at the offices of the New
York Stock Exchange, 11 Wall Street, New York, New York 10005.
* * *
This information statement is being provided to you solely to furnish
information to shareholders of NL who will receive shares of Kronos common stock
in the distribution. It is not, and is not intended to be construed as, an
inducement or encouragement to buy or sell any of Kronos or NL securities. We
believe that the information contained in this information statement is accurate
as of the date set forth on the cover, and neither the mailing of this
information statement nor the delivery of Kronos common stock in the
distribution will create any implication to the contrary. Changes may occur
after that date, and we will not update the information contained herein except
in the normal course of public disclosure obligations and practices.
Neither NL nor Kronos has authorized anyone to give you any information or
to make any representation about the distribution or the companies that differs
from or adds to the information contained in this information statement or in
the documents NL has publicly filed with the SEC. Therefore, if anyone should
give you any different or additional information, you should not rely on it.
KRONOS, INC.
INDEX OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Pages
Kronos, Inc. Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements:
Summary.......................................................................................... FA-1
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income -- Year
ended December 31, 2002 and Three Months Ended March 31, 2003 FA-2/FA-3
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income......................... FA-4/FA-5
Kronos, Inc. Consolidated Financial Statements:
Report of Independent Auditors................................................................... FB-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets-- December 31, 2001 and 2002; March 31, 2003 (unaudited); Pro Forma
March 31, 2003 (unaudited).................................................................... FB-3
Consolidated Statements of Income-- Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; Three months FB-5
ended March 31, 2002 (unaudited) and 2003 (unaudited).........................................
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income-- Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; FB-6
Three months ended March 31, 2002 (unaudited) and 2003 (unaudited)............................
Consolidated Statement of Stockholder's Equity-- Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; FB-7
Three months ended March 31, 2003 (unaudited).................................................
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows-- Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; Three months FB-8
ended March 31, 2002 (unaudited) and 2003 (unaudited).........................................
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements....................................................... FB-11/FB-46
KRONOS UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income for the
year ended December 31, 2002 and the three months ended March 31, 2003 gives
effect to Kronos' distribution of the Term Note and other transactions involving
Kronos' capital structure and indebtedness, as if such transactions had occurred
on January 1, 2002. You should read this information in conjunction with the:
o accompanying notes to the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated
Financial Statements; and
o audited consolidated financial statements of Kronos for the year ended
December 31, 2002, the unaudited consolidated financial statements of
Kronos for the quarter ended March 31, 2003 and the unaudited pro
forma consolidated balance sheet of Kronos as of March 31, 2003, each
of which are included elsewhere in this information statement.
The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements are
presented for informational purposes only and to aid you in your analysis of the
financial aspects of the distribution. The unaudited pro forma condensed
consolidated financial statements have been derived from Kronos' historical
consolidated financial statements. The pro forma adjustments, as described in
the notes that follow, are based upon available information and upon certain
assumptions that Kronos believes to be reasonable and factually supportable. The
pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements are not necessarily
indicative of what Kronos' results of operations actually would have been had we
completed these transactions at the dates indicated. In addition, the unaudited
pro forma condensed consolidated financial statements do not purport to project
the future operating results of Kronos following the distribution.
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
Year ended December 31, 2002
(In millions, except per share amounts)
Pro forma adjustment
----------------------------
Kronos 2002 Kronos
historical Transactions Term Note pro forma
------------ -------------- ----------- -----------
Revenues and other income:
Net sales $ 875.2 $ - $ - $ 875.2
Interest income 20.7 (20.6) - .1
Other, net 7.9 - 7.9
--------- --------- --------- ---------
903.8 (20.6) - 883.2
--------- --------- --------- ---------
Costs and expenses:
Costs of goods sold 671.8 - - 671.8
Selling, general and administrative 110.5 - - 110.5
Interest 29.1 .4 18.0 47.5
-------- -------- --------- --------
811.4 .4 18.0 829.8
-------- -------- --------- --------
Interest before income taxes 92.4 (21.0) (18.0) 53.4
Provision for income taxes 25.7 (7.4) (6.3) 12.0
Minority interest .1 - - .1
-------- --------- --------- ---------
Net income $ 66.6 $ (13.6) $ (11.7) $ 41.3
======== ========= ========= =========
Net income per share $ 1.37 $ .85
========= =========
Shares used in the calculation of per
share amounts 48.8 48.8
======== =========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
Three months ended March 31, 2003
(In millions, except per share amounts)
Pro forma
adjustment
Kronos historical Term Note Kronos pro forma
----------------- ----------- ----------------
Revenues and other income:
Net sales $ 253.0 $ - $ 253.0
Interest income .4 - .4
Other, net (.9) - (.9)
--------- ------- ---------
252.5 - 252.5
--------- ------- ---------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of goods sold 188.4 - 188.4
Selling, general and administrative 30.2 - 30.2
Interest 8.4 4.5 12.9
--------- ------- ---------
227.0 4.5 231.5
--------- ------- ---------
Income before income taxes 25.5 (4.5) 21.0
Provision for income taxes 8.8 (1.6) 7.2
--------- ------- ---------
Net income $ 16.7 $ (2.9) $ 13.8
========= ========= =========
Net income per share $ .34 $ .28
========= =========
Shares used in the calculation of per share amounts 48.8 48.8
========= =========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 - Basis of presentation:
The unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated statements of income for the
year ended December 31, 2002 and the three months ended March 31, 2003 reflect
adjustments necessary to reflect the following transactions, as if each of such
transactions had occurred on January 1, 2002:
o The June 2002 issuance of (euro)285 million (approximately $283 million,
using the June 30, 2002 exchange rate) of 8?% Senior Secured Notes ("KII
Senior Notes") by Kronos International ("KII"), a wholly-owned subsidiary
of Kronos, and the application of the net proceeds to repay certain
indebtedness owed to NL ("Indebtedness to NL") in the aggregate amount of
$287 million (collectively, the "KII Senior Note Issuance"),
o The June 2002 borrowing of approximately (euro)40 million ($40 million) by
certain subsidiaries of KII under their revolving credit facility
("European Credit Facility'), and the repayment in full of certain
short-term notes payable ($53 million) to third parties ("European Notes
Payable") using the net proceeds from the borrowing plus other available
cash on hand (collectively, the "European Credit Facility Issuance"),
o The July 2002 distribution of certain long-term notes receivable ($753
million at June 30, 2002) from NL in the form of a non-cash dividend as
part of a recapitalization of Kronos (together with the KII Senior Note
Issuance and the European Credit Facility Issuance, the "2002
Transactions"), and
o The distribution of the Term Note by Kronos to NL, as contemplated as part
of the distribution of 48.9% of Kronos' common stock to NL's shareholders
as more fully described in this information statement.
Note 2 - Pro forma adjustments:
Pro forma adjustments are summarized below.
2002 Transactions
The $20.6 million adjustment to interest income for the year ended December
31, 2002 represents elimination of interest income on Kronos' notes receivable
from affiliates distributed to NL in the form of a non-cash dividend in July
2002.
The adjustment to interest expense related to the issuance of the KII
Senior Notes and the European Credit Facility is comprised of the following:
Year ended Three months ended
December 31, 2002 March 31, 2003
------------------- -------------------
(In millions)
Increase in interest expense:
KII Senior Notes $ 11.9 $ -
European Credit Facility 1.5 -
----------- ---------
13.4 -
----------- ---------
Decrease in interest expenses:
Indebtedness to NL 11.4 -
European Notes Payable 1.6 -
----------- ---------
13.0 -
----------- ---------
Net increase $ .4 $ -
=========== =========
================================================================================
The income tax effect associated with these adjustments to interest income
and interest expense have been calculated using applicable statutory income tax
rates in the various tax jurisdictions to which the pre-tax pro forma
adjustments relate.
Term Note
Interest expense on the Term Note (9% per annum), and the related income
tax benefit using the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 35%.
Note 3 - Pro forma per share amounts:
The pro forma earnings per share amounts are based upon the 48.8 million
shares of Kronos' common stock that will be outstanding following the
recapitalization of Kronos discussed in Note 1 to Kronos' consolidated financial
statements included in this information statement.
KRONOS, INC.
Index of Financial Statements
Financial Statements Pages
Report of Independent Auditors FB-2
Consolidated Balance Sheets - December 31, 2001 and 2002;
March 31, 2003 (unaudited); and Pro Forma March 31, 2003 (unaudited) FB-3
Consolidated Statements of Income - Years ended
December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; Three months ended
March 31, 2002 (unaudited) and 2003 (unaudited) FB-5
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income -
Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; Three months
ended March 31, 2002 (unaudited) and 2003 (unaudited) FB-6
Consolidated Statements of Stockholder's Equity -
Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; Three months ended
March 31, 2003 (unaudited) FB-7
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows - Years ended
December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002; Three months ended
March 31, 2002 (unaudited) and 2003 (unaudited) FB-8
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements FB-11
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
To the Stockholder and Board of Directors of Kronos, Inc.:
The recapitalization described in Note 1 to the consolidated financial
statements has not been consummated at August 8, 2003. When it has been
consummated, we will be in a position to furnish the following report:
"In our opinion, the consolidated balance sheets and the
related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income,
stockholder's equity and cash flows present fairly, in all
material respects, the consolidated financial position of Kronos,
Inc. and its subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company") at
December 31, 2002 and 2001, and the consolidated results of its
operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the
period ended December 31, 2002 in conformity with accounting
principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
These financial statements are the responsibility of the
Company's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion
on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted
our audits of these statements in accordance with auditing
standards generally accepted in the United States of America,
which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in
the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles
used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating
the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our
audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion."
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Houston, Texas
July 28, 2003
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except per share data)
Pro Forma
December 31, March 31, March 31,
ASSETS 2001 2002 2003 2003
----------- ----------- ----------- --------------
(Unaudited)
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents .................... $ 54,717 $ 43,268 $ 39,961 $ 39,961
Restricted cash equivalents .................. -- 1,291 2,244 2,244
Accounts and notes receivable ................ 123,870 134,248 167,745 167,745
Receivable from affiliates ................... 47 682 1,316 1,316
Refundable income taxes ...................... 1,528 1,777 774 774
Inventories .................................. 231,056 209,882 195,936 195,936
Prepaid expenses ............................. 2,642 6,494 4,996 4,996
Deferred income taxes ........................ 4,640 4,404 4,642 4,642
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total current assets ..................... 418,500 402,046 417,614 417,614
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ----------
Other assets:
Notes receivable from NL Industries, Inc. .... -- 44,600 44,600 44,600
Investment in TiO2 manufacturing joint venture 138,428 130,009 131,259 131,259
Prepaid pension cost ......................... 16,043 17,572 17,424 17,424
Other ........................................ 11,100 30,836 28,130 28,130
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total other assets ....................... 165,571 223,017 221,413 221,413
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Property and equipment:
Land ......................................... 22,066 26,568 27,671 27,671
Buildings .................................... 129,005 148,701 153,968 153,968
Machinery and equipment ...................... 534,089 636,425 651,848 651,848
Mining properties ............................ 48,167 65,296 62,331 62,331
Construction in progress ..................... 5,071 8,702 9,307 9,307
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
738,398 885,692 905,125 905,125
Less accumulated depreciation and depletion .. 412,373 509,906 523,045 523,045
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net property and equipment ............... 326,025 375,786 382,080 382,080
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
$ 910,096 $1,000,849 $1,021,107 $1,021,107
========== ========== ========== ==========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (CONTINUED)
(In thousands, except per share data)
Pro Forma
December 31, March 31, March 31,
ASSETS 2001 2002 2003 2003
----------- ------------ ------------ -----------
(Unaudited)
Current liabilities:
Notes payable .............................. $ 46,201 $ -- $ -- $ --
Current maturities of long-term debt ....... 1,033 1,298 1,238 1,238
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities ... 152,633 150,161 122,648 122,648
Payable to affiliates ...................... 11,365 7,933 10,462 10,462
Income taxes ............................... 7,181 6,299 5,512 5,512
Deferred income taxes ...................... 1,530 3,219 1,594 1,594
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total current liabilities .............. 219,943 168,910 141,454 141,454
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Noncurrent liabilities:
Long-term debt ............................. 1,465 324,608 349,021 349,021
Notes payable to affiliates ................ 194,000 44,600 52,600 252,600
Deferred income taxes ...................... 64,538 80,012 86,180 86,180
Accrued pension cost ....................... 25,558 33,098 32,489 32,489
Accrued postretirement benefits cost ....... 13,036 11,806 11,638 11,638
Other ...................................... 12,733 13,742 14,657 14,657
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total noncurrent liabilities ........... 311,330 507,866 546,585 746,585
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Minority interest .............................. 284 383 418 418
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Stockholder's equity:
Preferred stock - $.01 par value; 100
shares authorized; no shares issued or
outstanding .............................. -- -- -- --
Common stock - $.01 par value; 60,000 shares
authorized; 48,776 shares issued ......... 488 488 488 488
Additional paid-in capital ................. 1,060,158 1,060,158 1,060,158 1,060,158
Retained earnings (deficit) ................ 180,048 (575,388) (558,723) (770,123)
Notes receivable from NL Industries, Inc. .. (655,918) -- (11,400) --
Accumulated other comprehensive loss:
Marketable securities .................. -- (5) (9) (9)
Currency translation ................... (199,885) (148,082) (144,383) (144,383)
Pension liabilities .................... (6,352) (13,481) (13,481) (13,481)
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Total stockholder's equity ............. 378,539 323,690 332,650 132,650
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
$ 910,096 $ 1,000,849 $ 1,021,107 $ 1,021,107
=========== =========== =========== ===========
Commitments and contingencies (Notes 14 and 19)
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share data)
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
------------------------------- ---------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(Unaudited)
Revenues and other income (expense):
Net sales ......................... $922,319 $835,099 $875,188 $202,357 $ 252,973
Interest income from affiliates ... 20,250 33,379 20,754 8,485 358
Insurance recoveries, net ......... -- 17,468 -- -- --
Other income (expense), net ....... 9,259 11,164 7,896 829 (857)
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
951,828 897,110 903,838 211,671 252,474
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
Costs and expenses:
Cost of sales ..................... 610,449 578,060 671,830 156,253 188,417
Selling, general and administrative 114,517 103,545 110,471 25,780 30,150
Interest .......................... 2,005 4,305 16,837 700 7,983
Interest expense to affiliates .... 28,979 22,969 12,290 5,667 384
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
755,950 708,879 811,428 188,400 226,934
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
Income before income taxes and
minority interest ........... 195,878 188,231 92,410 23,271 25,540
Income tax expense .................... 65,625 33,759 25,719 6,265 8,851
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
Income before minority interest 130,253 154,472 66,691 17,006 16,689
Minority interest ..................... 47 16 55 10 24
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
-------- -------- -------- -------- ---------
Net income .................... $130,206 $154,456 $ 66,636 $ 16,996 $ 16,665
======== ======== ======== ======== =========
======== ======== ======== ======== =========
Net income per basic and diluted share $ 2.67 $ 3.17 $ 1.37 $ .35 $ .34
======== ======== ======== ======== =========
======== ======== ======== ======== =========
Basic and diluted weighted average
shares used in the calculation of net
income per share .................... 48,776 48,776 48,776 48,776 48,776
======== ======== ======== ======== =========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(In thousands)
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
----------------------------------- -----------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
----------- ----------- ----------- -------- ---------
(Unaudited)
Net income ........................ $ 130,206 $ 154,456 $ 66,636 $ 16,996 $ 16,665
--------- --------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- --------- -------- --------
Other comprehensive income (loss),
net of tax:
Marketable securities
adjustment .................. -- -- (5) -- (4)
Minimum pension liabilities
adjustment .................. 691 (6,352) (7,129) -- --
Currency translation adjustment (30,415) (15,974) 51,803 (6,142) 3,699
-------- --------- --------- -------- --------
-------- --------- --------- -------- --------
Total other comprehensive
(loss) income ........... (29,724) (22,326) 44,669 (6,142) 3,695
-------- --------- --------- -------- --------
-------- --------- --------- -------- --------
Comprehensive income .......... $ 100,482 $ 132,130 $ 111,305 $ 10,854 $ 20,360
========= ========= ========= ======== ========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF STOCKHOLDER'S EQUITY
Years ended December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002
Three months ended March 31, 2003(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share data)
Notes
Additional Retained receivable
Common paid-in earnings from
stock capital (deficit) affiliates
---------- --------------- ------------- -------------
---------- --------------- ------------- -------------
Balance at December 31, 1999 $ 488 $ 483,695 $ (19,114) $ -
Net income - - 130,206 -
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax - - - -
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (61,579)
Dividends declared - - (55,000) -
Capital contribution - 291,910 - (240,116)
-------------------------- ------------- ------------- -
Balance at December 31, 2000 488 775,605 56,092 (301,695)
Net income - - 154,456 -
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax - - - -
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (69,678)
Dividends declared - - (30,500) -
Capital contribution - 284,553 - (284,545)
-------------------------- ------------- -------------
Balance at December 31, 2001 488 1,060,158 180,048 (655,918)
Net income - - 66,636 -
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax - - - -
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (55,154)
Dividends declared:
Cash - - (111,000) -
Noncash - - (711,072) 711,072
-------------------------- ------------- -------------
Balance at December 31, 2002 488 1,060,158 (575,388) -
Net income - - 16,665 -
Other comprehensive income - - - -
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (11,400)
-------------------------- ------------- -------------
Balance at March 31, 2003 (unaudited) $ 488 $1,060,158 $ (558,723) $ (11,400)
========================== ============= =============
Accumulated other
comprehensive income (loss)
--------------------------------------
Currency Pension Marketable
translation liabilities securities Total
------------- -------------- ------------- --------------
------------- -------------- ------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 1999 $ (153,496) $ (691) $ - $ 310,882
Net income - - - 130,206
Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax (30,415) 691 - (29,724)
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (61,579)
Dividends declared - - - (55,000)
Capital contribution - - - 51,794
---------------------------------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 2000 (183,911) - - 346,579
Net income - - - 154,456
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax (15,974) (6,352) - (22,326)
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (69,678)
Dividends declared - - - (30,500)
Capital contribution - - - 8
---------------------------------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 2001 (199,885) (6,352) - 378,539
Net income - - - 66,636
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 51,803 (7,129) (5) 44,669
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (55,154)
Dividends declared:
Cash - - - (111,000)
Noncash - - - -
---------------------------------------- --------------
Balance at December 31, 2002 (148,082) (13,481) (5) 323,690
Net income - - - 16,665
Other comprehensive income 3,699 - (4) 3,695
Change in notes receivable from affiliates - - - (11,400)
---------------------------------------- --------------
Balance at March 31, 2003 (unaudited) $ (144,383) $ (13,481) $ (9) $ 332,650
======================================== ==============
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(In thousands)
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
------------------------------- -------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
---- ---- ---- ---- ----
(Unaudited)
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net income ............................ $ 130,206 $ 154,456 $ 66,636 $ 16,996 $ 16,665
Depreciation, depletion and
amortization ........................ 28,989 28,907 32,535 7,610 9,520
Noncash interest income from affiliates (21,579) (22,201) (20,629) (8,485) --
Noncash interest expense .............. -- -- 932 -- 528
Deferred income taxes ................. 11,901 (4,242) 10,625 2,293 4,246
Minority interest ..................... 47 16 55 10 24
Net loss from disposition of property
and equipment ....................... 1,562 735 625 47 61
Pension cost, net ..................... (3,710) (2,332) (1,866) (231) (1,051)
Other postretirement benefits, net .... (1,056) (1,236) (1,250) (318) (314)
Distributions from (contributions to)
TiO2 manufacturing joint venture, net 7,550 11,313 7,950 900 (1,250)
Insurance recoveries, net ............. -- (17,468) -- -- --
Other, net ............................ -- 261 -- -- --
--------- --------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- --------- -------- --------
153,910 148,209 95,613 18,822 28,429
Change in assets and liabilities:
Accounts and notes receivable ..... 1,541 2,507 5,546 (14,319) (31,040)
Inventories ....................... (23,395) (32,698) 42,249 43,049 18,702
Prepaid expenses .................. (124) (322) (383) (822) 1,581
Accounts payable and accrued
liabilities ..................... 16,973 26,274 (26,103) (38,390) (29,577)
Income taxes ...................... 11,705 (4,211) (2,263) (705) 405
Accounts with affiliates .......... (3,114) (652) (4,090) 29,908 2,077
Other noncurrent assets ........... (458) (1,314) 74 1,461 173
Other noncurrent liabilities ...... (2,309) (2,111) (866) -- 628
--------- --------- --------- -------- --------
--------- --------- --------- -------- --------
Net cash provided (used) by
operating activities ........ 154,729 135,682 109,777 39,004 (8,622)
--------- --------- --------- -------- --------
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
(In thousands)
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
------------------------------------- ---------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
------------- ----------- ---------- --------- -----------
(Unaudited)
Cash flows from investing activities:
Capital expenditures .................... $ (31,066) $(53,656) $ (32,598) $ (5,461) $ (6,503)
Property damaged by fire:
Insurance proceeds .................. -- 23,361 -- -- --
Other, net .......................... -- (3,205) -- -- --
Change in restricted cash and restricted
marketable debt securities, net ....... -- (577) 892 (232) (1,009)
Proceeds from disposition of property
and equipment ......................... 110 399 864 27 42
Acquisition of business ................. -- -- (9,149) (9,149) --
Other, net .............................. (33) -- -- -- --
-------- --------
-------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Net cash used by investing activities (30,989) (33,678) (39,991) (14,815) (7,470)
-------- -------- --------- -------- --------
-------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Cash flows from financing activities:
Indebtedness:
Borrowings .......................... 44,923 1,437 335,768 -- 16,106
Principal payments .................. (29,162) (22,428) (84,814) (263) (342)
Deferred financing fees ............. -- -- (10,706) -- --
Dividends paid .......................... (55,000) (30,500) (111,000) -- --
Loans from affiliates:
Loans ............................... -- -- 44,600 -- 8,000
Repayments .......................... (93,000) -- (194,000) (25,000) --
Other capital transactions with
affiliates,
net ................................... (40,000) (47,477) (64,600) -- (11,400)
Other, net .............................. (6) 3 (11) -- --
------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Net cash (used) provided by financing
activities ........................ (172,245) (98,965) (84,763) (25,263) 12,364
-------- -------- --------- -------- --------
-------- -------- --------- -------- --------
Net change during the year from
operating, investing and financing
activities ........................ $ (48,505) $ 3,039 $ (14,977) $ (1,074) $ (3,728)
========= ======== ========= ======== ========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (CONTINUED)
(In thousands)
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
--------------------------------- -----------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
---------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ----------
(Unaudited)
Cash and cash equivalents: Net change during the year from:
Operating, investing and financing
activities .................... $ (48,505) $ 3,039 $(14,977) $ (1,074) $ (3,728)
Acquisition of business ......... -- -- 196 196 --
Currency translation ............ (1,635) (1,301) 3,332 (274) 421
-------- --------
--------- -------- -------- -------- --------
(50,140) 1,738 (11,449) (1,152) (3,307)
Balance at beginning of year .... 103,119 52,979 54,717 54,717 43,268
--------- -------- -------- -------- --------
--------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Balance at end of year .......... $ 52,979 $ 54,717 $ 43,268 $ 53,565 $ 39,961
========= ======== ======== ======== ========
========= ======== ======== ======== ========
Supplemental disclosures - cash paid for:
Interest ............................ $ 32,304 $ 27,239 $ 33,169 $ 1,975 $ 1,056
Income taxes ........................ 45,157 43,422 17,392 3,161 3,041
Acquisition of business:
Cash and cash equivalents ....... $ -- $ -- $ 196 $ 196 $ --
Restricted cash ................. -- -- 2,685 2,685 --
Goodwill and other intangible
assets ........................ -- -- 9,007 9,007 --
Other noncash assets ............ -- -- 1,259 1,259 --
Liabilities ..................... -- -- (3,998) (3,998) --
---------- -------- -------- -------- --------
---------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Cash paid ................... $ -- $ -- $ 9,149 $ 9,149 $ --
========== ======== ======== ======== ========
KRONOS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 - Organization and basis of presentation:
Kronos, Inc. ("Kronos") is a wholly owned subsidiary of NL Industries, Inc.
("NL"). NL conducts its titanium dioxide pigments ("TiO2") operations through
Kronos. At March 31, 2003, Valhi, Inc. ("Valhi") and Tremont LLC ("Tremont"), a
wholly owned subsidiary of Valhi, held an aggregate of approximately 85% of NL's
outstanding common stock, and Contran Corporation ("Contran") and its
subsidiaries held approximately 90% of Valhi's outstanding common stock. At
December 31, 2002, (i) Contran and its subsidiaries held approximately 93% of
Valhi's outstanding common stock, (ii) Tremont Group, Inc. ("Tremont Group"),
which was 80% owned by Valhi and 20% owned by NL, held approximately 80% of the
outstanding shares of Tremont Corporation ("Tremont Corp.") common stock and
(iii) Valhi and Tremont Corp. held 63% and 21%, respectively, of the outstanding
common stock of NL. Substantially all of Contran's outstanding voting stock is
held by trusts established for the benefit of certain children and grandchildren
of Harold C. Simmons, of which Mr. Simmons is sole trustee. Mr. Simmons, the
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Kronos and NL as well as
the Chairman of the Board of each of Contran, Valhi and Tremont, may be deemed
to control each of such companies and Kronos.
Information included in the consolidated financial statements and related
notes to the consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 2003 and for the
three months ended March 31, 2002 and 2003, is unaudited. In the opinion of
management, all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments,
necessary to state fairly the information for the interim periods have been
made. The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily
indicative of the operating results for a full year or of future operations.
Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial
statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted
in the U.S. ("GAAP") have been condensed or omitted for the interim periods.
In August 2003, NL announced a distribution of approximately 48.9% of the
outstanding shares of Kronos' common stock to NL shareholders in the form of a
pro-rata dividend. Upon completion of such distribution, Valhi, Tremont and NL
will own an aggregate of approximately 92.5% of Kronos' common stock, and other
NL shareholders would own the remaining 7.5%. Prior to such distribution, Kronos
completed a recapitalization whereby Kronos (i) amended and restated its
articles of incorporation and (ii) paid a $200 million dividend to NL in the
form of a long-term note payable. Upon the effectiveness of Kronos' amended and
restated articles of incorporation, among other things, (i) Kronos' authorized
capital stock consists of 60 million shares of common stock and 100,000 shares
of preferred stock, each par value $.01 per share, and (ii) the 1,000 shares of
Kronos' common stock previously outstanding have been reclassified into an
aggregate of 48.8 million shares. The $200 million long-term note payable to NL
is unsecured, bears interest at 9% per annum, with interest payable quarterly
and all principal due in 2010.
The accompanying consolidated financial statements have been retroactively
reclassified to reflect such changes in Kronos' capital structure for all
periods presented. Earnings per share data for all periods presented has been
restated to reflect the 48.8 million shares of Kronos' common stock that was
outstanding following effectiveness of the amended and restated articles of
incorporation.
The accompanying unaudited pro forma balance sheet as of March 31, 2003
assumed Kronos had (i) distributed the $200 million long-term note payable to NL
and (ii) distributed $11.4 million of certain other notes receivable from NL
that were classified as a reduction of stockholder's equity (see Note 11), in
each case as if such transactions had occurred on March 31, 2003. The unaudited
pro forma balance sheet does not purport to project what Kronos' financial
position will be in the future when Kronos actually completes these
transactions.
Note 2 - Summary of significant accounting policies:
Principles of consolidation and management's estimates
The accompanying consolidated financial statements include the accounts of
Kronos and its majority-owned subsidiaries (collectively, the "Company"). All
material intercompany accounts and balances have been eliminated. The
preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management
to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and
liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of
the financial statements, and the reported amount of revenues and expenses
during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from previously estimated
amounts under different assumptions or conditions. The Company currently
believes that it has no involvement with any variable interest entity covered by
the scope of FASB Interpretation ("FIN") No. 46, "Consolidation of Variable
Interest Entities."
Translation of foreign currencies
Assets and liabilities of subsidiaries whose functional currency is other
than the U.S. dollar are translated at year-end rates of exchange and revenues
and expenses are translated at weighted average exchange rates prevailing during
the year. Resulting translation adjustments are included in other comprehensive
income (loss), net of related income taxes. Currency transaction gains and
losses are recognized in income currently.
Cash equivalents and restricted cash
Cash equivalents include U.S. Treasury securities purchased under
short-term agreements to resell and bank deposits with original maturities of
three months or less. Restricted cash equivalents, invested primarily in U.S.
government securities and mutual funds that invest primarily in U.S. government
securities, collateralize certain insurance obligations of the Company.
Restricted marketable debt securities
Restricted marketable debt securities are primarily invested in corporate
debt securities. Restricted marketable debt securities of approximately $.6
million and approximately $2.5 million, as of December 31, 2001 and 2002,
respectively, were used to support certain capital requirements regarding the
Company's Norwegian operating subsidiaries' defined benefit pension plans in
accordance with applicable Norwegian law. Restricted marketable debt securities
are generally classified as either current or noncurrent assets depending upon
the maturity date of each marketable debt security and are carried at market
which approximates cost. See Note 6.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost (principally average cost) or
market. Amounts are removed from inventories at average cost.
Investment in TiO2 manufacturing joint venture
Investment in a 50%-owned manufacturing joint venture is accounted for by
the equity method.
Property, equipment, depreciation and depletion
Property and equipment are stated at cost. Interest costs related to major,
long-term capital projects are capitalized as a component of construction costs.
Expenditures for maintenance, repairs and minor renewals are expensed;
expenditures for major improvements are capitalized.
Depreciation is computed principally by the straight-line method over the
estimated useful lives of ten to forty years for buildings and three to twenty
years for machinery and equipment. Depletion of mining properties is computed by
the unit-of-production and straight-line methods.
When events or changes in circumstances indicate that assets may be
impaired, an evaluation is performed to determine if an impairment exists. Such
events or changes in circumstances include, among other things, (i) significant
current and prior periods or current and projected periods with operating
losses, (ii) a significant decrease in the market value of an asset or (iii) a
significant change in the extent or manner in which an asset is used. All
relevant factors are considered. The test for impairment is performed by
comparing the estimated future undiscounted cash flows (exclusive of interest
expense) associated with the asset to the asset's net carrying value to
determine if a write-down to market value or discounted cash flow value is
required. Effective January 1, 2002, the Company commenced accounting for
impairment of other long-lived assets (such as property and equipment and mining
properties) in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards
("SFAS") No. 144 as discussed under "Accounting principles adopted in 2002."
Long-term debt
Where applicable, long-term debt is stated net of unamortized original
issue discount ("OID"). OID is amortized over the period during which cash
interest payments are not required and deferred financing costs are amortized
over the term of the applicable issue, both by the interest method.
Employee benefit plans
Accounting and funding policies for retirement plans and postretirement
benefits other than pensions ("OPEB") are described in Note 12.
While the Company has not issued any stock options to purchase Kronos'
common stock, certain employees of the Company have been granted options by NL
to purchase NL common stock. The Company has elected the disclosure alternative
prescribed by SFAS No. 123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation," as
amended by SFAS No. 148, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation - Transition
and Disclosure," and to account for its stock-based employee compensation
related to these NL stock options in accordance with Accounting Principles Board
Opinion ("APBO") No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees," and its
various interpretations. Under APBO No. 25, no compensation cost is generally
recognized for fixed stock options in which the exercise price is not less than
the market price on the grant date. During the fourth quarter of 2002, NL,
including the Company, commenced accounting for its stock options, including
options granted to Company employees, using the variable accounting method,
which requires the intrinsic value of all unexercised stock options (including
those with an exercise price at least equal to the market price on the date of
grant) to be accrued as an expense, with subsequent increases (decreases) in
NL's market price resulting in additional compensation expense (income). The
Company is also charged by NL for stock options exercised by employees of the
Company to the extent the exercise price exceeds an amount previously accrued as
an expense under the intrinsic value method. See Notes 13 and 18. Aggregate
compensation expense related to NL stock options held by employees of the
Company was $2.1 million in 2000, nil in 2001 and $2.3 million in 2002, and nil
and $.2 million in the three months ended March 31, 2002 and 2003, respectively.
The following table illustrates the effect on net income and earnings per
share if the Company had applied the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS
No. 123 to stock-based employee compensation.
Years ended December 31, Three months ended
March 31,
--------------------------------- ------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
----------- ------------ ------------ ---------- ---------
(Unaudited)
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Net income - as reported ..................... $ 130,206 $ 154,456 $ 66,636 $ 16,996 $ 16,665
Add back (deduct): Stock-based
compensation cost (income), net of tax,
included in reported net income ............ 1,349 -- 1,549 -- (239)
Deduct: Stock-based compensation cost,
net of tax, determined under fair value
based method for all awards ................ (1,077) (1,112) (740) (185) (81)
--------- --------- -------- -------- --------
--------- --------- -------- -------- --------
Net income - pro forma ....................... $ 130,478 $ 153,344 $ 67,445 $ 16,811 $ 16,345
========= ========= ======== ======== ========
========= ========= ======== ======== ========
Net income per basic and diluted common share:
As reported .............................. $ 2.67 $ 3.17 $ 1.37 $ .35 $ .34
Pro forma ................................ $ 2.68 $ 3.14 $ 1.38 $ .34 $ .34
Environmental remediation costs
Environmental remediation costs are accrued when estimated future
expenditures are probable and reasonably estimable. The estimated future
expenditures are generally not discounted to present value. Recoveries of
remediation costs from other parties, if any, are reported as receivables when
their receipt is deemed probable. At December 31, 2001 and 2002, no receivables
for recoveries have been recognized.
Net sales
The Company adopted the SEC's Staff Accounting Bulletin ("SAB") No. 101,
"Revenue Recognition in Financial Statements," as amended, in 2000. Revenue
generally is realized or realizable and earned when all of the requirements of
SAB No. 101 are met, including when title and the risks and rewards of ownership
passes to the customer (generally at the time the product is shipped to the
customer). The impact of adopting SAB No. 101 was not material. Amounts charged
to customers for shipping and handling are included in net sales.
Repair and maintenance costs
The Company performs planned major maintenance activities during the year.
Repair and maintenance costs estimated to be incurred in connection with planned
major maintenance activities are accrued in advance and are included in cost of
goods sold. Accrued repair and maintenance costs, included in other current
accrued liabilities (see Note 8) was $3.4 million and $4.0 million at December
31, 2001 and 2002.
Shipping and handling costs
Shipping and handling costs are included in selling, general and
administrative expense and were $50 million in 2000, $49 million in 2001 and $51
million in 2002.
Income taxes
Kronos and its qualifying subsidiaries are members of NL's consolidated
U.S. federal income tax group (the "NL Tax Group"). As a member of the NL Tax
Group, the Company is a party to a tax sharing agreement (the "NL Tax
Agreement"). Effective January 1, 2001, the NL Tax Group, including Kronos, was
included in the consolidated U.S. federal tax return of Contran (the "Contran
Tax Group"). As a member of the Contran Tax Group, NL is a party to a separate
tax sharing agreement (the "Contran Tax Agreement"). The Contran Tax Agreement
provides that NL and its qualifying subsidiaries, including Kronos, compute its
provision for U.S. income taxes on a separate-company basis using the tax
elections made by Contran. Pursuant to the NL Tax Sharing agreement and using
the tax elections made by Contran, Kronos makes payments to or receives payments
from NL in amounts it would have paid to or received from the U.S. Internal
Revenue Service had it not been a member of NL's consolidated tax group but
instead was a separate taxpayer.
Following completion of NL's distribution of 48.9% of the outstanding
shares of Kronos common stock to NL shareholders, Kronos and its qualifying
subsidiaries are no longer members of the NL Tax Group, but Kronos and its
qualifying subsidiaries remain as members of the Contran Tax Group. Kronos will
enter into a new tax sharing agreement with Valhi and Contran (the
"Kronos/Contran/Valhi Tax Agreement"). The Kronos/Contran/Valhi Tax Agreement is
expected to contain similar terms to the NL Tax Agreement.
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the expected
future tax consequences of temporary differences between the income tax and
financial reporting carrying amounts of assets and liabilities, including
investments in subsidiaries and unconsolidated affiliates not included in the NL
Tax Group. The Company periodically evaluates its deferred tax assets in the
various taxing jurisdictions in which it operates and adjusts any related
valuation allowance. The Company's valuation allowance is equal to the amount of
deferred tax assets which the Company believes do not meet the
"more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria.
Derivatives and hedging activities
The Company adopted SFAS No. 133, "Accounting for Derivative Instruments
and Hedging Activities," as amended, effective January 1, 2001. SFAS No. 133
establishes accounting standards for derivative instruments, including certain
derivative instruments embedded in other contracts, and for hedging activities.
Under SFAS No. 133, all derivatives are recognized as either assets or
liabilities and measured at fair value. The accounting for changes in fair value
of derivatives is dependent upon the intended use of the derivative. As
permitted by the transition requirements of SFAS No. 133, as amended, the
Company exempted from the scope of SFAS No. 133 all host contracts containing
embedded derivatives which were issued or acquired prior to January 1, 1999. At
December 31, 2001 and 2002, the Company was not a party to any significant
derivative or hedging instrument covered by SFAS No. 133. There was no impact on
the Company's financial statements from adopting SFAS No. 133.
The Company periodically uses interest rate swaps, currency swaps and other
types of contracts to manage interest rate and foreign exchange risk with
respect to financial assets or liabilities. The Company has not entered into
these contracts for trading or speculative purposes in the past, nor does it
currently anticipate doing so in the future. The Company was not a party to any
such contracts during 2000, 2001 and 2002.
Accounting principles adopted in 2002
The Company adopted SFAS No. 142, "Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets,"
effective January 1, 2002. Under SFAS No. 142, goodwill, including goodwill
arising from the difference between the cost of an investment accounted for by
the equity method and the amount of the underlying equity in net assets of such
equity method investee ("equity method goodwill"), will not be amortized on a
periodic basis. Instead, goodwill (other than equity method goodwill) will be
subject to an impairment test to be performed at least on an annual basis, and
impairment reviews may result in future periodic write-downs charged to
earnings. Equity method goodwill will not be tested for impairment in accordance
with SFAS No. 142; rather, the overall carrying amount of an equity method
investee will continue to be reviewed for impairment in accordance with existing
GAAP. There is currently no equity method goodwill associated with the Company's
equity method investee. All goodwill arising in a purchase business combination
(including step acquisitions) completed on or after July 1, 2001 would not be
periodically amortized from the date of such combination. The Company had
goodwill of $6.4 million at December 31, 2002 which was generated during January
2002. The Company had no goodwill recognized as of the January 1, 2002 date of
adoption of SFAS No. 142. See Note 3.
The Company adopted SFAS No. 144, "Accounting for the Impairment or
Disposal of Long-Lived Assets," effective January 1, 2002. SFAS No. 144 retains
the fundamental provisions of existing GAAP with respect to the recognition and
measurement of long-lived asset impairment contained in SFAS No. 121,
"Accounting for the Impairment of Long-Lived Assets and for Long-Lived Assets to
be Disposed Of." However, SFAS No. 144 provides new guidance intended to address
certain significant implementation issues associated with SFAS No. 121,
including expanded guidance with respect to appropriate cash flows to be used to
determine whether recognition of any long-lived asset impairment is required,
and if required how to measure the amount of the impairment. SFAS No. 144 also
requires that any net assets to be disposed of by sale to be reported at the
lower of carrying value or fair value less cost to sell, and expands the
reporting of discontinued operations to include any component of an entity with
operations and cash flows that can be clearly distinguished from the rest of the
entity. The adoption of SFAS No. 144 effective January 1, 2002 did not have a
material effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of
operations or liquidity.
The Company adopted SFAS No. 145, "Rescission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44
and 64, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13 and Technical Corrections" effective
April 1, 2002. SFAS No. 145, among other things, eliminated the prior
requirement that all gains and losses from the early extinguishment of debt were
to be classified as an extraordinary item. Upon adoption of SFAS No. 145, gains
and losses from the early extinguishment of debt are now classified as an
extraordinary item only if they meet the "unusual and infrequent" criteria
contained in APBO No. 30. In addition, upon adoption of SFAS No. 145, all gains
and losses from the early extinguishment of debt that had previously been
classified as an extraordinary item are to be reassessed to determine if they
would have met the "unusual and infrequent" criteria of APBO No. 30; any such
gain or loss that would not have met the APBO No. 30 criteria are retroactively
reclassified and reported as a component of income before extraordinary item.
The adoption of SFAS No. 145 effective January 1, 2002 did not have a material
effect on the Company's consolidated financial positions, results of operation
or liquidity.
In November 2002, the FASB issued FIN No. 45, "Guarantor's Accounting and
Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of
Indebtedness of Others." FIN No. 45 requires a guarantor to recognize a
liability at the inception of a guarantee covered by the scope of FIN No. 45,
equal to the fair value of the obligation undertaken in issuing the guarantee.
FIN No. 45 also expands the disclosures requirements with respect to certain
guarantees. The initial recognition and measurement provisions of FIN No. 45 are
applicable on a prospective basis for any guarantees issued or modified after
December 31, 2002, while the disclosure requirements were effective upon
issuance. The Company is not a party to any guarantees covered by the scope of
FIN No. 45 as of December 31, 2002.
Accounting principles adopted in 2003
The Company adopted SFAS No. 143, "Accounting for Asset Retirement
Obligations," effective January 1, 2003. Under SFAS No. 143, the fair value of a
liability for an asset retirement obligation covered under the scope of SFAS No.
143 is recognized in the period in which the liability is incurred, with an
offsetting increase in the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. Over
time, the liability is accreted to its future value, and the capitalized cost is
depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Upon settlement of the
liability, an entity will either settle the obligation for its recorded amount
or incur a gain or loss upon settlement.
Under the transition provisions of SFAS No. 143, at the date of adoption on
January 1, 2003 the Company recognized (i) an asset retirement cost capitalized
as an increase to the carrying value of its property, plant and equipment, (ii)
accumulated depreciation on such capitalized cost and (iii) a liability for the
asset retirement obligation. Amounts resulting from the initial application of
SFAS No. 143 were measured using information, assumptions and interest rates all
as of January 1, 2003. The amount recognized as the asset retirement cost was
measured as of the date the asset retirement obligation was incurred. Cumulative
accretion on the asset retirement obligation, and accumulated depreciation on
the asset retirement cost, were recognized for the time period from the date the
asset retirement cost and liability would have been recognized had the
provisions of SFAS No. 143 been in effect at the date the liability was
incurred, through January 1, 2003. The difference between the amounts recognized
as described above and the associated amounts recognized in the Company's
balance sheet as of December 31, 2002 was recognized as a cumulative effect of a
change in accounting principles as of January 1, 2003. The effect of adopting
SFAS No. 143 as of January 1, 2003 as summarized in the table below did not have
a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial position, results of
operations or liquidity and is not separately recognized in the accompanying
statement of income.
Amount
--------------
(In millions)
Increase in carrying value of net property,
plant and equipment:
Cost $ .4
Accumulated depreciation (.1)
Decrease in liabilities previously accrued for .3
closure and post closure activities
Asset retirement obligation recognized (.6)
------
------
Net impact $ -
======
The Company adopted SFAS No. 146, "Accounting for Costs Associated with
Exit or Disposal Activities," effective January 1, 2003 for exit or disposal
activities initiated on or after the date of adoption. Under SFAS No. 146, costs
associated with exit activities, as defined, that are covered by the scope of
SFAS No. 146 are recognized and measured initially at fair value, generally in
the period in which the liability is incurred. Costs covered by the scope of
SFAS No. 146 include termination benefits provided to employees, costs to
consolidate facilities or relocate employees, and costs to terminate contracts
(other than a capital lease). The adoption of SFAS No. 146 effective January 1,
2003 did not have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial
position, results of operations or liquidity.
Note 3 - Business and geographic segments:
The Company's operations are conducted in one operating business segment -
activities associated with the production and sale of TiO2. Titanium dioxide
pigments are used to impart whiteness, brightness and opacity to a wide variety
of products, including paints, plastics, paper, fibers and ceramics. At December
31, 2001 and 2002, the net assets of non-U.S. subsidiaries included in
consolidated net assets approximated $394 million and $159 million,
respectively.
The Company evaluates its TiO2 segment performance based on operating
income. Operating income is defined as income before income taxes, minority
interest, extraordinary items, interest expense, interest expense to affiliates,
certain nonrecurring items and certain general corporate items. Corporate items
excluded from operating income include corporate expense, interest income from
affiliates, interest and dividend income not attributable to TiO2 operations,
and gains and losses from the disposal of long-lived assets outside the ordinary
course of business. The accounting policies of the TiO2 segment are the same as
those described in Note 2. Interest income included in the calculation of TiO2
operating income is disclosed in Note 15 as "Trade interest income."
Segment assets are comprised of all assets attributable to the reportable
operating segment. The Company's investment in the TiO2 manufacturing joint
venture (see Note 7) is included in TiO2 business segment assets. Corporate
assets are not attributable to the TiO2 operating segment and consist
principally of cash, cash equivalents, restricted cash equivalents, restricted
marketable debt securities, EWI RE, Inc. and EWI RE, Inc. Ltd. (collectively
"EWI") reinsurance brokerage services net assets (see below), and notes
receivable from affiliates. For geographic information, net sales are attributed
to the place of manufacture (point of origin) and the location of the customer
(point of destination); property and equipment are attributed to their physical
location.
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
------------------------------------ -------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
---------- ----------- ------------- ------------ ------------
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Business segment - TiO2
Net sales .............................. $ 922,319 $ 835,099 $ 875,188 $ 202,357 $ 252,973
Other income (expense), excluding
corporate ............................ 8,167 10,815 824 783 (893)
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
930,486 845,914 876,012 203,140 252,080
Cost of sales .......................... 610,449 578,060 671,830 156,253 188,417
Selling, general and administrative,
excluding corporate .................. 107,554 98,667 107,675 24,728 29,379
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Operating income ................... 212,483 169,187 96,507 22,159 34,284
Insurance recoveries, net .............. -- 17,468 -- -- --
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Income before corporate items,
income taxes and minority interest 212,483 186,655 96,507 22,159 34,284
General corporate income (expense):
Corporate income (expense), net .... (5,871) (4,529) 4,276 (1,006) (735)
Interest expense ................... (2,005) (4,305) (16,837) (700) (7,983)
Interest expense to affiliates ..... (28,979) (22,969) (12,290) (5,667) (384)
Interest income from affiliates .... 20,250 33,379 20,754 8,485 358
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- --------- ---------
Income before income taxes and
minority interest ................ $ 195,878 $ 188,231 $ 92,410 $ 23,271 $ 25,540
========= ========= ========= ========= =========
Years ended December 31,
--------------------------------------
2000 2001 2002
------------ ------------- -----------
(In thousands)
Geographic areas
Net sales - point of origin:
Germany .......................... $ 444,050 $ 398,470 $ 404,299
United States .................... 313,426 278,624 291,823
Canada ........................... 154,579 149,412 157,773
Belgium .......................... 137,829 126,782 123,760
Norway ........................... 98,300 102,843 111,811
Other ............................ 92,691 82,320 89,560
Eliminations ..................... (318,556) (303,352) (303,838)
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
$ 922,319 $ 835,099 $ 875,188
========= ========= =========
========= ========= =========
Net sales - point of destination:
Europe ........................... $ 480,388 $ 425,338 $ 456,834
United States .................... 283,327 258,347 271,865
Canada ........................... 53,060 47,061 53,371
Latin America .................... 27,104 25,514 19,970
Asia ............................. 45,922 46,169 47,549
Other ............................ 32,518 32,670 25,599
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
$ 922,319 $ 835,099 $ 875,188
========= ========= =========
December 31,
---------------------------------
2001 2002
----------------- ---------------
(In thousands)
Identifiable assets
Net property and equipment:
Germany ............................ $ 182,387 $ 213,170
Canada ............................. 54,676 54,719
Belgium ............................ 46,841 54,625
Norway ............................. 38,549 49,737
Other .............................. 3,572 3,535
---------- ----------
---------- ----------
$ 326,025 $ 375,786
========== ==========
========== ==========
Total assets:
Operating .......................... $ 900,401 $ 939,349
General corporate .................. 9,695 61,500
---------- ----------
---------- ----------
$ 910,096 $1,000,849
========== ==========
In January 2002, the Company acquired all of the stock and limited
liability company units of EWI for an aggregate of $9.2 million in cash,
including acquisition costs of $.2 million. An entity controlled by one of
Harold C. Simmons' daughters owned a majority of EWI, and a wholly owned
subsidiary of Contran owned the remainder of EWI. EWI provides reinsurance
brokerage services for insurance policies of the Company, its joint venture and
other affiliates of Contran as well as external third-party customers. The
purchase was approved by a special committee of the NL's Board of Directors
consisting of two of its directors unrelated to Contran, and the purchase price
was negotiated by the special committee based upon its consideration of relevant
factors, including but not limited to due diligence performed by independent
consultants and an appraisal of EWI conducted by an independent third party
selected by the special committee.
EWI's results of operations and cash flows are included in the Company's
consolidated results of operations and cash flows beginning January 2002. The
pro forma effect on the Company's results of operations at December 31, 2001,
assuming the acquisition of EWI had occurred as of January 1, 2001, is not
material. The aggregate cash purchase price of $9.2 million (including
acquisition costs of $.2 million) has been allocated to the assets acquired and
liabilities assumed, including definite-lived, customer list intangible asset of
$2.6 million and goodwill of $6.4 million, based upon estimates of fair value.
The intangible asset and goodwill were included in other noncurrent assets at
December 31, 2002. See Note 6. The intangible asset will be amortized on a
straight-line basis over a period of seven years (approximately six years
remaining at December 31, 2002) with no assumed residual value. Goodwill will
not be amortized on a periodic basis but instead will subject to periodic
impairment tests in accordance with the requirements of SFAS No. 142. See Note
2. Effective June 30, 2003, the Company distributed EWI to NL. See Note 23.
Note 4 - Accounts and notes receivable:
December 31, March 31,
--------------------- --------------
2001 2002 2003
----------- ------------ -----------
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Trade receivables ....................... $ 99,989 $ 124,044 $ 161,431
Insurance claims receivable ............. 11,505 312 312
Recoverable VAT and other receivables ... 14,615 12,497 8,692
Allowance for doubtful accounts ......... (2,239) (2,605) (2,690)
--------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- ---------
$ 123,870 $ 134,248 $ 167,745
========= ========= =========
Note 5 - Inventories:
December 31, March 31,
---------------------- -------------
2001 2002 2003
----------- ---------- -------------
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Raw materials .................. $ 79,162 $ 54,077 $ 34,046
Work in process ................ 9,675 15,936 18,136
Finished products .............. 117,201 109,203 112,786
Supplies ....................... 25,018 30,666 30,968
-------- -------- --------
-------- -------- --------
$231,056 $209,882 $195,936
======== ======== ========
Note 6 - Other noncurrent assets:
December 31,
------------------
2001 2002
---------- -------
(In thousands)
Deferred financing costs, net (see Note 10) ..................... $ 12 $10,550
Goodwill (see Note 3) ........................................... -- 6,406
Unrecognized net pension obligations (see Note 12) .............. 5,901 5,561
Intangible asset, net of accumulated amortization of nil and $372
(see Note 3) .................................................. -- 2,230
Restricted marketable debt securities ........................... 577 2,492
Other ........................................................... 4,610 3,597
------- -------
------- -------
$11,100 $30,836
======= =======
Note 7 - Investment in TiO2 manufacturing joint venture:
Kronos Louisiana, Inc. ("KLA"), a wholly owned subsidiary of Kronos, owns a
50% interest in Louisiana Pigment Company, L.P. ("LPC"). LPC is a manufacturing
joint venture that is also 50%-owned by Tioxide Americas Inc. ("Tioxide"), a
wholly owned subsidiary of Huntsman International Holdings LLC, a 60%-owned
subsidiary of Huntsman Corporation. LPC owns and operates a chloride-process
TiO2 plant in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
KLA is required to purchase one-half of the TiO2 produced by LPC. LPC
operates on a break-even basis and, accordingly, the Company reports no equity
in earnings of LPC. Kronos' cost for its share of the TiO2 produced is equal to
its share of LPC's costs. Kronos' share of net costs is reported as cost of
sales as the related TiO2 acquired from LPC is sold.
LPC made cash distributions of $15.1 million in 2000, $22.6 million in 2001
and $15.9 million in 2002, equally split between the partners.
Summary balance sheets of LPC are shown below.
December 31,
-------------------------
2001 2002
------------- -----------
(In thousands)
ASSETS
Current assets ............................... $ 45,872 $ 56,745
Property and equipment, net .................. 250,501 235,739
-------- --------
-------- --------
$296,373 $292,484
======== ========
======== ========
LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' EQUITY
Other liabilities, primarily current ............. $ 16,767 $ 29,716
Partners' equity ................................. 279,606 262,768
-------- --------
-------- --------
$296,373 $292,484
======== ========
Summary income statements of LPC are shown below.
Years ended December 31,
------------------------------------
2000 2001 2002
----------- ------------- ----------
(In thousands)
Revenues and other income:
Kronos ........................... $ 92,530 $ 93,393 $ 92,428
Tioxide .......................... 93,366 94,009 93,833
Interest ......................... 578 303 53
-------- -------- --------
-------- -------- --------
186,474 187,705 186,314
-------- -------- --------
-------- -------- --------
Cost and expenses:
Cost of sales .................... 186,045 187,295 185,946
General and administrative ....... 429 410 368
-------- -------- --------
186,474 187,705 186,314
-------- -------- --------
-------- -------- --------
Net income ................... $ $ -- $ --
======== ======== ========
Note 8 - Accounts payable and accrued liabilities:
December 31,
--------------------------
2001 2002
-------------- -----------
(In thousands)
Accounts payable ......................... $ 95,837 $ 90,962
-------- --------
-------- --------
Accrued liabilities:
Employee benefits .................... 22,488 27,042
Other ................................ 34,308 32,157
-------- --------
-------- --------
56,796 59,199
-------- --------
-------- --------
$152,633 $150,161
======== ========
Note 9 - Other noncurrent liabilities:
December 31,
-------------------------
2001 2002
------------ ------------
(In thousands)
Insurance claims expense ................... $ 1,465 $ 1,480
Employee benefits .......................... 3,476 4,025
Environmental costs ........................ 5,662 5,921
Other ...................................... 2,130 2,316
------- -------
------- -------
$12,733 $13,742
======= =======
Note 10 - Notes payable and long-term debt:
December 31,
--------------------------------------
2001 2002
----------------- ------------------
(In thousands)
Notes payable - Kronos International, Inc. and subsidiaries $ 46,201 $ -
================= ==================
================= ==================
Long-term debt:
Kronos International, Inc. and subsidiaries:
8.875% Senior Secured Notes $ $ 296,942
-
Revolving credit facility - 27,077
Other 2,498 1,887
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
2,498 325,906
Less current maturities 1,033 1,298
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
$ 1,465 $ 324,608
================= ==================
Notes payable at December 31, 2001, consisted of (euro)27 million ($24.0
million) and NOK 200 million ($22.2 million). Notes payable totaling $53.2
million were repaid on June 28, 2002 with proceeds from the new European Credit
Facility discussed below and available cash, and the agreements were terminated.
In June 2002 Kronos International, Inc. ("KII"), a wholly owned subsidiary
of the Kronos, issued (euro)285 million ($280 million when issued and $297
million at December 31, 2002) principal amount of 8.875% Senior Secured Notes
(the "Notes") due 2009. The Notes are collateralized by first priority liens on
65% of the common stock or other equity interests of certain of KII's first-tier
subsidiaries. The Notes are issued pursuant to an indenture which contains a
number of covenants and restrictions which, among other things, restricts the
ability of KII and its subsidiaries to incur debt, incur liens, pay dividends or
merge or consolidate with, or sell or transfer all or substantially all of their
assets to another entity. In addition, the indenture contains customary
cross-default provisions with respect to other debt and obligations of KII or
its subsidiaries. The Notes are redeemable, at KII's option, on or after
December 30, 2005 at redemption prices ranging from 104.437% of the principal
amount, declining to 100% on or after December 30, 2008. In addition, on or
before June 30, 2005, KII may redeem up to 35% of its Notes with the net
proceeds of a qualified public equity offering at 108.875% of the principal
amount. In the event of a change of control of KII, as defined, KII would be
required to make an offer to purchase its Notes at 101% of the principal amount.
KII would also be required to make an offer to purchase a specified portion of
its Notes at par value in the event KII generates a certain amount of net
proceeds from the sale of assets outside the ordinary course of business, and
such net proceeds are not otherwise used for specified purposes within a
specified time period. At December 31, 2002 and March 31, 2003, KII was in
compliance with all the covenants, and the quoted market price of the Notes at
December 31, 2002 was (euro)1,010 per (euro)1,000 principal amount. The Notes
require cash interest payments on June 30 and December 30, commencing on
December 30, 2002. KII completed an exchange offer on November 18, 2002 to
exchange the Notes for registered publicly traded notes that have substantially
identical terms as the Notes.
In June 2002 KII's operating subsidiaries in Germany, Belgium and Norway
(the "European Borrowers"), entered into a three-year (euro)80 million secured
revolving credit facility ("European Credit Facility"). The European Credit
Facility is available in multiple currencies, including U.S. dollars, euros and
Norwegian kroner. In addition, the European Credit Facility has a (euro)5.0
million sub limit available for issuance of letters of credit. As of December
31, 2002, (euro)15 million ($15.6 million) and NOK 80 million ($11.5 million)
were outstanding under the European Credit Facility and (euro)1.8 million ($1.8
million) of letters of credit was also outstanding under the European Credit
Facility. At December 31, 2002, approximately (euro)52 million (approximately
$54 million) was available for additional borrowings. Borrowings bear interest
at the applicable interbank market rate plus 1.75%. As of December 31, 2002, the
interest rate was 4.80% and 8.86% on the euro and Norwegian kroner borrowings,
respectively, and the weighted average interest rate was 6.51%.
In March 2003 the Company borrowed (euro)15 million ($16.1 million when
borrowed) under the revolving credit facility. In April 2003 the Company repaid
NOK 80 million (approximately $11 million when repaid) under the revolving
credit facility.
The European Credit Facility is collateralized by accounts receivable and
inventory of the European Borrowers, plus a limited pledge of certain other
assets of the Belgian borrower. The European Credit Facility contains, among
others, various restrictive covenants, including restrictions on incurring
liens, asset sales, additional financial indebtedness, mergers, investments and
acquisitions, transactions with affiliates and dividends. In addition, the
European Credit Facility contains customary cross-default provisions with
respect to other debt and obligations of the European Borrowers, KII and its
other subsidiaries. The European Borrowers were in compliance with all the
covenants as of December 31, 2002 and March 31, 2003.
In September 2002 the Company's U.S. operating subsidiaries (the "U.S.
Borrowers") entered into a three-year $50 million asset-based revolving credit
facility ("U.S. Credit Facility"). Under the terms of the U.S. Credit Facility,
the amount available for borrowing is based on a formula-derived borrowing base
using eligible accounts receivable and eligible inventory and is subject to
maintaining $5 million of minimum excess availability ("Borrowing
Availability"). The maximum amount available under the U.S. Credit Facility is
$45 million. Borrowings bear interest at either prime rate or eurodollar rates
plus a margin spread based on average excess availability under the U.S. Credit
Facility or certain levels of EBITDA (as defined) of the U.S. Borrowers. Margin
spreads range from 0.25% to 1.00% for prime rate borrowings and 2.00% to 2.75%
for eurodollar rate borrowings. The U.S. Credit Facility is available for future
working capital requirements and general corporate purposes of the U.S.
Borrowers, including dividend distributions. The U.S. Credit Facility is
collateralized by accounts receivable, inventory and certain fixed assets of the
U.S. Borrowers. The U.S. Credit Facility contains, among other things, various
restrictive and financial covenants including restrictions on incurring liens,
asset sales, mergers, and minimum EBITDA (as defined) of the U.S. Borrowers and
Kronos. The U.S. Borrowers were in compliance with all the covenants as of
December 31, 2002 and March 31, 2003. As of December 31, 2002 and March 31,
2003, no borrowings were outstanding under the U.S. Credit Facility and
Borrowing Availability was approximately $30 million and approximately $40
million, respectively.
Deferred financing costs of $10.7 million for the Notes, the European
Credit Facility and the U.S. Credit Facility are being amortized over the life
of the respective agreements and are included in other noncurrent assets as of
December 31, 2002.
Unused lines of credit available for borrowing under the Company's non-U.S.
credit facilities approximated $57 million at December 31, 2002 (including
approximately $54 million under the European Credit Facility of which
approximately $3.2 million is available for letters of credit).
The aggregate maturities of long-term debt at December 31, 2002 are shown
in the table below.
Years ending December 31, Amount
- -------------------------
--------------------
(In thousands)
2003 $ 1,298
2004 279
2005 27,224
2006 145
2007 18
2008 and thereafter 296,942
--------
$325,906
========
Note 11 - Notes receivable from and payable to affiliates:
December 31,
--------------------------
2001 2002
------------ -------------
(In thousands)
Notes receivable from affiliates:
Variable rate - NL $ - $ 44,600
============ ============
Notes payable to affiliates:
11.75% First-Tier Senior Mirror Note $ 194,000 $ -
Revolving credit facility - 44,600
------------- ------------
------------- ------------
$ 194,000 $ 44,600
=========== ============
Notes receivable from affiliates
At December 31, 2002, the Company had $44.6 million of loans outstanding to
NL under the terms of a $55 million revolving credit facility entered into with
NL during 2002. The loan bore interest at U.S. LIBOR plus 1.75% (3.1% at
December 31, 2002), with interest payable quarterly, and all principal was due
on December 31, 2005. This note receivable from NL is included in noncurrent
assets at December 31, 2002, as settlement of the note was currently
contemplated within the foreseeable future. During the first six months of 2003,
NL repaid this outstanding balance ($44.6 million) in full, and the revolving
credit agreement with NL was terminated on June 30, 2003. Included in contra
equity at March 31, 2003 was $11.4 million of this note receivable from NL as
settlement of this portion of the affiliate note was not currently contemplated
within the foreseeable future.
Notes payable to affiliates
NL had $194 million of 11.75% Senior Secured Notes due 2003 (the "NL
Notes") at December 31, 2001. The Company had a First-Tier Senior Mirror Note
(the "Mirror Note") payable to NL. The terms of the Mirror Note were identical
to the terms of the NL Notes with respect to the maturity dates and interest
rates with interest paid semi-annually. The Mirror Note was collateralized by a
first priority lien on the common stock of KII and another subsidiary of the
Company, as well as the Company's Second-Tier Senior Mirror Note ("Second-Tier
Mirror Note") receivable from KII, the terms of which were identical to the
terms of the Mirror Note. The Second-Tier Mirror Note was eliminated in the
Company's consolidated financial statements. The NL Notes were collateralized by
a first priority lien on the common stock of Kronos, the Mirror Note and other
collateral pledged by NL.
On March 22, 2002, NL redeemed $25 million principal amount of the NL Notes
at the current call price of 100%, and Kronos concurrently repaid $25 million
principal amount of the Mirror Notes. In addition, immediately following the
closing of the Notes offering (see Note 10), the Company effectively loaned to
NL sufficient funds for NL to redeem in full the remaining $169 million
principal amount of the NL Notes. In accordance with the terms of the indenture
governing the NL Notes, on June 28, 2002, NL irrevocably placed on deposit with
the trustee funds in an amount sufficient to pay in full the redemption price
plus all accrued and unpaid interest due on the July 28, 2002 redemption date.
Immediately thereafter, NL was released from its obligations under such
indenture, the indenture was discharged and all collateral was released to NL.
Because NL had been released as being the primary obligor under the indenture as
of June 30, 2002, the NL Notes were derecognized as of that date along with the
funds placed on deposit with the trustee to effect the July 28, 2002 redemption.
The Company recognized a loss on the early extinguishment of debt of
approximately $1.5 million in the second quarter of 2002, consisting primarily
of the interest on the Mirror Note for the period from July 1 to July 28, 2002.
Such loss was recognized as a component of interest expense. The Mirror Note was
deemed repaid in accordance with the terms and conditions of such agreement, and
the agreement was canceled.
At December 31, 2002, the Company had $44.6 million outstanding of loans
from NL Environmental Management Services, Inc. ("EMS"), a majority-owned
subsidiary of NL, under the terms of a $55 million revolving credit facility
entered into with EMS in 2002. The loan bore interest at U.S. LIBOR plus 1.75%
(3.1% at December 31, 2002), with interest payable quarterly, and all principal
was due on December 31, 2005. During the first six months of 2003, the Company
repaid this outstanding balance in full, and the revolving credit agreement with
EMS was terminated on June 30, 2003.
Note 12 - Employee benefit plans:
Company-sponsored pension plans
The Company maintains various defined benefit and defined contribution
pension plans covering substantially all employees as well as certain former
employees and retirees of certain business units formerly operated by the
Company. Non-U.S. employees are covered by plans in their respective countries
and a majority of U.S. employees are eligible to participate in a contributory
savings plan. The Company amended its defined benefit pension plans in Belgium
and Norway in 2002 to exclude the admission of new employees to the plans. New
employees of these particular locations are eligible to participate in
Company-sponsored defined contribution plans.
The Company contributes to eligible U.S. employees' accounts an amount
equal to approximately 4% (in each of 2000, 2001 and 2002) of the employee's
annual eligible earnings and partially matches employee contributions to the
U.S. contributory savings plan. The Company also has a nonqualified defined
contribution plan covering certain U.S. executives, and participants receive
benefits based on a formula involving eligible earnings. The Company's expense
related to the U.S. plans was $.3 million in 2000, $.4 million in 2001 and $.2
million in 2002.
Certain actuarial assumptions used in measuring the defined benefit pension
assets, liabilities and expenses are presented below.
December 31,
---------------------------------------------------------------
2000 2001 2002
----------------- ----------------- ------------------
(Percentages)
Discount rate 6.0 to 7.8 5.8 to 7.3 5.5 to 7.0
Rate of increase in future compensation levels 3.0 to 4.5 2.8 to 4.5 2.5 to 4.5
Long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.0 to 9.0 6.8 to 8.5 6.8 to 8.5
Plan assets are comprised primarily of investments in U.S. and non-U.S.
corporate equity and debt securities, short-term investments, mutual funds and
group annuity contracts.
SFAS No. 87, "Employers' Accounting for Pension Costs" requires that an
additional pension liability be recognized when the unfunded accumulated pension
benefit obligation exceeds the unfunded accrued pension liability. Variances
from actuarially assumed rates will change the actuarial valuation of accrued
pension liabilities, pension expense and funding requirements in future periods.
The components of the net periodic defined benefit pension cost are set
forth below.
Years ended December 31,
----------------------------------------------------
2000 2001 2002
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
(In thousands)
Net periodic pension cost:
Service cost benefits $ 3,836 $ 3,743 $ 4,278
Interest cost on projected benefit obligation ("PBO") 12,196 12,751 13,641
Expected return on plan assets (12,553) (12,635) (12,778)
Amortization of prior service cost 238 201 307
Amortization of net transition obligation 586 563 570
Recognized actuarial losses 196 399 1,126
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
---------------- ---------------- ----------------
$ 4,499 $ 5,022 $ 7,144
================ ================ ================
The funded status of the Company's defined benefit pension plans is set
forth below.
December 31,
--------------------------------------
2001 2002
----------------- ------------------
(In thousands)
Change in PBO:
Beginning of year $ 207,609 $ 218,162
Service cost 3,743 4,278
Interest 12,751 13,641
Participant contributions 1,005 1,056
Amendments 1,819 -
Actuarial loss (gain) 7,340 (5,178)
Benefits paid (12,972) (13,936)
Change in currency exchange rates (3,133) 36,436
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
End of year 218,162 254,459
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
Change in fair value of plan assets:
Beginning of year 175,773 168,155
Actual return on plan assets 2,984 (2,054)
Employer contributions 7,354 9,010
Participant contributions 1,005 1,056
Benefits paid (12,972) (13,936)
Change in currency exchange rates (5,989) 27,705
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
End of year 168,155 189,936
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
Funded status at year end:
Plan assets less than PBO (50,007) (64,523)
Unrecognized actuarial loss 40,316 55,807
Unrecognized prior service cost 4,371 4,881
Unrecognized net transition obligation 4,536 5,247
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
$ (784) $ 1,412
================= ==================
================= ==================
Amounts recognized in the balance sheet:
Prepaid pension cost $ 16,043 $ 17,572
Accrued pension cost:
Current (5,682) (6,677)
Noncurrent (25,558) (33,098)
Unrecognized net pension obligations 5,901 5,561
Accumulated other comprehensive loss 8,512 18,054
----------------- ------------------
----------------- ------------------
$ (784) $ 1,412
================= ==================
Selected information related to the Company's defined benefit pension plans
that have accumulated benefit obligations in excess of fair value of plan assets
is presented below. At December 31, 2001 and 2002, 100% and 94%, respectively,
of the projected benefit obligations of such plans relate to non-U.S. plans.
December 31,
-----------------------------------
---------------- ----------------
2001 2002
---------------- ----------------
(In thousands)
Projected benefit obligation $ 167,825 $ 204,398
Accumulated benefit obligation 150,716 184,314
Fair value of plan assets 119,340 142,612
Incentive bonus programs
Certain employees are eligible to participate in the Company's various
incentive bonus programs. The programs provide for annual payments, which may be
in the form of cash or NL common stock. The amount of the annual payment paid to
an employee, if any, is based on formulas involving the profitability of Kronos
in relation to the annual operating plan and, for most of these employees,
individual performance.
Postretirement benefits other than pensions
In addition to providing pension benefits, the Company currently provides
certain health care and life insurance benefits for eligible retired employees.
Certain of the Company's Canadian employees may become eligible for such
postretirement health care and life insurance benefits if they reach retirement
age while working for the Company. In 1989 the Company began phasing out such
benefits for active U.S. employees over a ten-year period and U.S. employees
retiring after 1998 are not entitled to any such benefits. The majority of all
retirees are required to contribute a portion of the cost of their benefits and
certain current and future retirees are eligible for reduced health care
benefits at age 65. The Company's policy is to fund medical claims as they are
incurred, net of any contributions by the retirees.
For measuring the OPEB liability at December 31, 2002, the expected rate of
increase in health care costs is 9% in 2003 decreasing to 5.5% in 2007 and
thereafter. Other weighted-average assumptions used to measure the liability and
expense are presented below.
December 31,
----------------------------------------------
------------ ------------ ------------
2000 2001 2002
------------ ------------ ------------
(Percentages)
Discount rate 7.3 7.0 6.5
Long-term rate for compensation increases 6.0 6.0 6.0
Long-term rate of return on plan assets 7.7 7.7 6.0
Variances from actuarially assumed rates will change accrued OPEB
liabilities, net periodic OPEB expense and funding requirements in future
periods. If the health care cost trend rate was increased (decreased) by one
percentage point for each year, postretirement benefit expense would have
increased approximately $.1 million (decreased by $.1 million) in 2002, and the
projected benefit obligation at December 31, 2002 would have increased by
approximately $.8 million (decreased by $.6 million).
The components of the Company's net periodic postretirement benefit cost
are set forth below.
Years ended December 31,
----------------------------------
2000 2001 2002
--------- ----------- ------------
(In thousands)
Net periodic OPEB cost (benefit):
Service cost benefits ................... $ 84 $ 94 $ 103
Interest cost on PBO .................... 973 924 660
Expected return on plan assets .......... (66) (66) --
Amortization of prior service cost ...... (1,055) (1,055) (1,055)
Recognized actuarial losses ............. 24 27 27
------- ------- -------
------- ------- -------
$ (40) $ (76) $ (265)
======= ======= =======
December 31,
------------------------
2001 2002
----------- ------------
(In thousands)
Change in PBO:
Beginning of year ............................ $ 13,498 $ 11,407
Service cost ................................. 94 103
Interest cost ................................ 924 660
Actuarial losses (gains) ..................... (1,694) 103
Release of insurance obligations ............. -- (787)
Benefits paid:
Company funds ............................ (1,006) (985)
Plan assets .............................. (264) --
Change in currency exchange rates ............ (145) 32
-------- --------
-------- --------
End of year .............................. 11,407 10,533
-------- --------
-------- --------
Change in fair value of plan assets:
Beginning of year ............................ 850 787
Actual return on plan assets ................. 47 --
Employer contributions ....................... 154 --
Benefits paid ................................ (264) --
Release of insurance obligations ............. -- (787)
-------- --------
End of year .............................. 787 --
-------- --------
-------- --------
Funded status at year end:
Plan assets less than PBO .................... (10,620) (10,533)
Unrecognized actuarial gain .................. (421) (335)
Unrecognized prior service cost .............. (3,280) (2,225)
-------- --------
-------- --------
$(14,321) $(13,093)
======== ========
======== ========
Amounts recognized in the balance sheet:
Current ...................................... $ (1,285) $ (1,287)
Noncurrent ................................... (13,036) (11,806)
-------- --------
-------- --------
$(14,321) $(13,093)
======== ========
Based on communications with a certain insurance provider of retiree
benefits, and consultations with the Company's actuaries, the Company has been
released from certain life insurance retiree benefit obligations totaling $.8
million as of December 31, 2002 through the use of an equal amount of plan
assets.
Note 13 - Common stock and notes receivable from affiliates:
Common stock options
The NL Industries, Inc. 1998 Long-Term Incentive Plan ("NL Option Plan")
provides for the discretionary grant of restricted common stock, stock options,
stock appreciation rights ("SARs") and other incentive compensation to officers
and other key employees of the Company. Although certain stock options granted
pursuant to a similar plan which preceded the NL Option Plan ("Predecessor
Option Plan") remain outstanding at December 31, 2002, no additional options may
be granted under the Predecessor Option Plan.
Up to five million shares of NL common stock may be issued pursuant to the
NL Option Plan and, at December 31, 2002, 3,651,000 shares were available for
future grants. The NL Option Plan provides for the grant of options that qualify
as incentive options and for options which are not so qualified. Generally,
stock options and SARs (collectively, "options") are granted at a price equal to
or greater than 100% of the market price at the date of grant, vest over a five
year period and expire ten years from the date of grant. Restricted stock,
forfeitable unless certain periods of employment are completed, is held in
escrow in the name of the grantee until the restriction period expires. No SARs
have been granted under the NL Option Plan.
Changes in outstanding options granted to certain employees of the Company
pursuant to the NL Option Plan and the Predecessor Option Plan are summarized in
the table below.
Weighted-
average
Amount Weighted- fair
Exercise price payable average value
per share upon exercise at grant
Shares Low High exercise price date
----------------------- ----------- -------------------------- -------------
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Outstanding at December 31, 1999 800 $ 5.00 $ 24.19 $ 12,659 $ 15.82
Granted 184 14.25 14.25 2,622 14.25 $ 4.83
Exercised (193) 5.00 17.97 (2,034) 10.53
Forfeited (150) 24.19 24.19 (3,628) 24.19
----------------------- ----------- --------------------------
----------------------- ----------- --------------------------
Outstanding at December 31, 2000 641 5.00 21.97 9,619 15.01
Granted 216 20.11 20.51 4,344 20.11 $ 7.52
Exercised (6) 11.28 14.25 (70) 12.43
----------------------- ----------- --------------------------
Outstanding at December 31, 2001 851 5.00 21.97 13,893 16.33
Exercised (192) 5.00 15.19 (2,715) 14.16
----------------------- ----------- --------------------------
Outstanding at December 31, 2002 659 $ 8.69 $ 21.97 $ 11,178 $ 16.96
======================= =========== ==========================
At December 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002 options to purchase 140,700, 261,000
and 240,400 shares, respectively, were exercisable and options to purchase
184,000 shares become exercisable in 2003. Of the exercisable options, options
to purchase 114,000 shares at December 31, 2002 had exercise prices less than
NL's December 31, 2002 quoted market price of $17.00 per share. Outstanding
options at December 31, 2002 expire at various dates through 2011.
The following table summarizes NL's stock options outstanding and
exercisable that were held by certain employees of the Company as of December
31, 2002 by price range.
Options outstanding Options exercisable
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------
Weighted-
average Weighted- Weighted-
Outstanding remaining average Exercisable average
Range of at contractual exercise at exercise
exercise prices 12/31/02 life price 12/31/02 price
--------------- ---------------- -------------- ----------------- ----------------
$ 7.26 - $ 9.68 2,000 1.1 $ 8.69 2,000 $ 8.69
9.68 - 12.09 68,900 5.4 11.47 47,500 11.56
12.09 - 14.51 198,700 6.5 14.03 52,500 14.14
14.51 - 16.93 25,200 4.8 15.46 12,000 15.75
16.93 - 19.35 84,400 4.6 17.87 70,400 17.85
19.35 - 21.77 250,000 7.7 20.11 32,000 20.10
21.77 - 24.19 30,000 5.1 21.97 24,000 21.97
---------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------- ----------------
659,200 6.5 $ 16.96 240,400 $ 16.33
================ =============== =============== ================ ================
The pro forma information included in Note 2 required by SFAS No. 123 is
based on an estimation of the fair value of options issued subsequent to January
1, 1995. No options were granted in 2002. The fair values of employee stock
options were calculated using the Black-Scholes stock option valuation model
with the following weighted average assumptions for grants in 2000 and 2001:
stock price volatility of 48% and 46% in 2000 and 2001, respectively; risk-free
rate of return of 5% in each of 2000 and 2001; dividend yield of 4.9% in 2000
and 4.0% in 2001; and an expected term of 9 years in each of 2000 and 2001. For
purposes of pro forma disclosures, the estimated fair value of the options is
amortized to expense over the options' vesting period.
Notes receivable from affiliates - contra equity
Certain long-term notes receivable from affiliates were included as a
component of equity in accordance with GAAP, as settlement of the affiliate
notes receivable balances was not currently contemplated within the foreseeable
future. The notes are summarized in the following table.
December 31,
--------------------------
2001 2002
----------- --------------
(In thousands)
Notes receivable from NL:
8.7% Fixed rate ............................... $106,783 $ --
6.0% Fixed rate euro-denominated .............. 286,363 --
Variable rate ................................. 262,772 --
-------- ---------
$655,918 $ --
======== =========
The 8.7% fixed-rate note receivable from NL originally matured in 2008 with
interest payable quarterly. The 6% fixed-rate euro-denominated note receivable
from NL originally matured in 2010 with interest payable monthly. The 6%
fixed-rate euro-denominated note receivable from NL was established in 2001 as a
result of a series of noncash transactions between KII, NL and the Company.
Variable-rate notes receivable consisted of eight individual notes from NL of
which five originally matured in 2003 and three originally matured in 2010, with
interest rates ranging from U.S. LIBOR plus .625% to U.S. LIBOR plus 1.625%
(2.5875% to 3.5875% at December 31, 2001) payable semi-annually. In July 2002
the Company distributed its affiliate notes receivable to NL totaling $711.1
million in the form of a dividend.
The Company periodically converted interest receivable from affiliates to
notes receivable from affiliates. For the years ended 2000, 2001 and 2002, the
interest transferred to notes receivable from affiliates totaled $21.6 million,
$22.2 million and $20.6 million, respectively.
Cash flows related to such loans made to affiliates included in contra
equity were reflected in "Other capital transactions with affiliates, net" in
the accompanying consolidated statement of cash flows.
Note 14 - Income taxes:
The components of (i) income from continuing operations before income taxes
and minority interest ("pretax income"), (ii) the difference between the
provision for income taxes attributable to pretax income and the amounts that
would be expected using the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate of 35%, (iii)
the provision for income taxes and (iv) the comprehensive tax provision are
presented below.
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
----------------------------------------- ---------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
------------- ------------- ------------- ---------------------------
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Pretax income:
U.S. $ 33,675 $ 34,167 $ 24,864 $ 6,594 $ 3,606
Non-U.S. 162,203 154,064 67,546 16,677 21,934
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
$195,878 $188,231 $ 92,410 $ 23,271 $ 25,540
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
Expected tax expense $ 68,557 $ 65,880 $ 32,343 $ 8,145 $ 8,939
Non-U.S. tax rates (6,462) (7,069) (3,238) (343) (374)
Resolution of German income tax audits (5,500) - - - -
Change in valuation allowance:
Corporate restructuring in Germany and
other - (23,247) - - -
Recognition of certain deductible tax
attributes which previously did not meet
the "more-likely-than-not" recognition
criteria (375) - (1,808) (125) (679)
Incremental tax on income of companies
not included in the NL Tax Group 1,943 451 548 130 915
Rate change adjustment of deferred taxes 5,695 - (2,332) - -
U.S. state income taxes 595 542 43 (37) 59
Tax contingency reserve adjustments, net 252 (3,423) 193 (1,589) -
Other, net 920 625 (30) 84 (9)
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Income tax expense $ 65,625 $ 33,759 $ 25,719 $ 6,265 $ 8,851
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
Provision for income taxes:
Current income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal $ 7,274 $ 8,467 $ 4,630 $ 1,523 $ 1,151
U.S. state 595 542 43 (37) 59
Non-U.S. 45,855 28,992 10,421 2,486 3,395
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
53,724 38,001 15,094 3,972 4,605
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
Deferred income tax expense (benefit):
U.S. federal 4,569 4,021 5,073 817 983
U.S. state - - - - -
Non-U.S. 7,332 (8,263) 5,552 1,476 3,263
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
11,901 (4,242) 10,625 2,293 4,246
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
$ 65,625 $ 33,759 $ 25,719 $ 6,265 $ 8,851
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
Comprehensive provision (benefit) for income taxes allocable to:
Pretax income $ 65,625 $ 33,759 $ 25,719 $ 6,265 $ 8,851
Acquired definite-lived intangible asset - - 908 908 -
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Pension liabilities - (2,160) (2,882) - -
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------- -------------
$ 65,625 $ 31,599 $ 23,745 $ 7,173 $ 8,851
============= ============= ============= ============= =============
The components of the net deferred tax liability are summarized below:
December 31,
----------------------------------------------------------------
2001 2002
------------------------------- --------------------------------
Deferred tax Deferred tax
--------------- ---------------- ---------------
Assets Liabilities Assets Liabilities
--------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------
(In thousands)
Tax effect of temporary differences relating to:
Inventories $ 3,202 $ (2,849) $ 3,427 $ (3,302)
Property and equipment 42,721 (54,432) 43,868 (59,058)
Accrued postretirement benefits cost 4,953 - 4,516 -
Accrued (prepaid) pension cost 1,473 (21,665) 3,043 (24,785)
Other accrued liabilities and deductible
differences 11,993 - 9,627 -
Other taxable differences - (26,591) - (36,069)
Tax on unremitted earnings of non-U.S.
subsidiaries - (3,933) - (4,156)
Tax loss and tax credit carryforwards 106,067 - 139,674 -
Valuation allowance (121,681) - (153,678) -
--------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------
--------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------
Gross deferred tax assets (liabilities) 48,728 (109,470) 50,477 (127,370)
Reclassification, principally netting by
tax jurisdiction (43,402) 43,402 (44,139) 44,139
--------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------
--------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------
Net total deferred tax assets (liabilities) 5,326 (66,068) 6,338 (83,231)
Net current deferred tax assets (liabilities) 4,640 (1,530) 4,404 (3,219)
--------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------
--------------- --------------- ---------------- ---------------
Net noncurrent deferred tax assets
(liabilities) $ 686 $ (64,538) $ 1,934 $(80,012)
=============== =============== ================ ===============
Changes in the Company's deferred income tax valuation allowance are
summarized below.
----------------------------------------------
Years ended December 31,
-------------- --------------- ---------------
2000 2001 2002
-------------- --------------- ---------------
(In thousands)
Balance at the beginning of year $ 196,630 $ 155,572 $ 121,681
Recognition of certain deductible tax attributes which
previously did not meet the "more-likely-than-not"
recognition criteria (375) (23,247) (1,808)
Offset to the change in gross deferred income tax assets
due principally to redeterminations of certain tax attributes
and implementation of certain tax planning strategies (24,955) (3,157) 12,187
Foreign currency translation (15,728) (7,487) 21,618
-------------- --------------- ---------------
-------------- --------------- ---------------
Balance at the end of year $ 155,572 $ 121,681 $ 153,678
============== =============== ===============
A reduction in the German "base" income tax rate from 30% to 25%, enacted
in October 2000, became effective January 1, 2001. The reduction in the German
income tax rate resulted in $5.7 million of additional deferred income tax
expense in the fourth quarter of 2000 due to a reduction of the Company's
deferred income tax asset related to certain German tax attributes.
A reduction in the Belgian income tax rate from 40.17% to 33.99%, enacted
in December 2002, became effective January 1, 2003. The reduction in the Belgian
income tax rate resulted in a $2.3 million decrease in deferred income tax
expense in the fourth quarter of 2002 due to a reduction of the Company's
deferred income tax liabilities related to certain Belgian temporary
differences.
Certain of the Company's tax returns in various U.S. and non-U.S.
jurisdictions are being examined and tax authorities have proposed or may
propose tax deficiencies, including penalties and interest.
In 2002 the Company received a notification from the Norwegian tax
authorities of their intent to assess tax deficiencies of approximately NOK 12.2
million ($1.7 million at December 31, 2002 and at March 31, 2003) relating to
1998 through 2000. The Company has objected to this proposed assessment in a
written response to the Norwegian tax authorities.
The Company has received preliminary tax assessments for the years 1991 to
1997 from the Belgian tax authorities proposing tax deficiencies, including
related interest, of approximately (euro)10.4 million ($10.8 million at December
31, 2002 and $11.2 million at March 31, 2003). The Company has filed protests to
the assessments for the years 1991 to 1997. The Company is in discussions with
the Belgian tax authorities and believes that a significant portion of the
assessments is without merit.
In April 2003 the Company received a notification from the Belgian tax
authorities of their intent to assess a tax deficiency related to 1999. The
anticipated assessment, including interest, is expected to approximate (euro)12
million ($12.9 million at March 31, 2003). The Company believes the proposed
assessment related to 1999 is without merit and in April 2003 filed a written
response in opposition to the notification of intent to assess.
In the first quarter of 2003, Kronos was notified by the German Federal
Fiscal Court (the "Court") that the Court had ruled in Kronos' favor concerning
a claim for refund suit in which Kronos sought refunds of prior taxes paid
during the periods 1990 through 1997. Kronos has filed certain amended German
tax returns and expects to file additional amended German tax returns claiming
such refunds for all years affected by the Court's decision, which is expected
to result in an estimated total net refund of taxes and interest of
approximately $40 million. As of March 31, 2003, Kronos had not reflected the
refund in its consolidated financial statements. Receipt of the German tax
refunds is subject to satisfaction of various procedural requirements, including
a review and acceptance of the amended German tax returns by the German tax
authorities. Certain of these procedural requirements were satisfied in the
second quarter of 2003 with respect to a portion of the refund claim, and in
July 2003 the German tax authorities refunded Kronos a portion of the total
anticipated refund. The portion received in July was (euro)21.5 million ($24.6
million using June 30, 2003 exchange rates). Kronos will reflect this refund in
its second quarter 2003 results of operations. Kronos expects to receive the
remaining refunds over the next six to nine months, a portion of which may
result in an additional income tax benefit.
No assurance can be given that the Company's tax matters will be favorably
resolved due to the inherent uncertainties involved in court and tax
proceedings. The Company believes that it has provided adequate accruals for
additional taxes and related interest expense which may ultimately result from
all such examinations and believes that the ultimate disposition of such
examinations should not have a material adverse effect on the Company's
consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
During the fourth quarter of 2001, the Company completed a restructuring of
its German subsidiaries, and as a result recognized a $23.2 million net income
tax benefit attributable to a decrease in the valuation allowance due to a
change in estimate of the Company's ability to utilize certain German income tax
attributes that did not previously meet the "more-likely-than-not" recognition
criteria.
At December 31, 2002 and at March 31, 2003, the Company had the equivalent
of approximately $414 million and $451 million, respectively, of income tax loss
carryforwards in Germany with no expiration date. However, the Company has
provided a deferred tax valuation allowance against substantially all of these
income tax loss carryforwards because the Company currently believes they do not
meet the "more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria. In 2002 the German federal
government proposed certain changes to its income tax law, including certain
changes that would have imposed limitations on the annual utilization of income
tax loss carryforwards. Such proposal, if enacted, would have significantly
affected Kronos' 2003 and future income tax expense and cash tax payments. In
April 2003 the German federal government passed a new tax law which does not
contain the provision that would have restricted the utilization of tax loss
carryforwards. Furthermore, the provisions contained in the new law are not
expected to materially impact Kronos' income tax expense or cash tax payments.
On August 1, 2003, the German federal government proposed new tax law amendments
that, among other things, reintroduced the limitations on the annual utilization
of income tax loss carryforwards, to become effective in 2004. There can be no
assurance that these proposed law amendments will be enacted and, if enacted,
when they would become effective. Such proposal, if enacted as proposed, would
significantly affect the Company's future income tax expense and cash tax
payments.
At December 31, 2002 and March 31, 2003, the Company had net deferred tax
liabilities of $ 76.9 million and $82.9 million, respectively. The Company
operates in numerous tax jurisdictions, in certain of which it has temporary
differences that net to deferred tax assets (before valuation allowance). The
Company has provided a deferred tax valuation allowance of $153.7 million at
December 31, 2002 and $156.5 million at March 31, 2003, principally related to
Germany, partially offsetting deferred tax assets which the Company believes do
not currently meet the "more-likely-than-not" recognition criteria.
Note 15 - Other income (expense), net:
Years ended Three months ended
December 31, March 31,
---------------------------------------------- -------------------------------
---------------------------------------------- -------------------------------
2000 2001 2002 2002 2003
--------------- -------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Securities earnings-
interest and dividends $ 1,078 $ 349 $ 801 $ 46 $ 36
Currency transaction gains
(losses), net 6,510 1,188 5,724 597 (1,098)
Trade interest income 2,333 2,332 1,709 223 163
Disposition of property and
equipment (1,562) (735) (625) (47) (61)
Insurance recoveries, net
(See Note 16) - 7,222 - - -
Other, net 900 808 287 10 103
--------------- -------------- --------------- --------------- ---------------
$ 9,259 $ 11,164 $ 7,896 $ 829 $ (857)
=============== ============= ================ =============== ===============
Note 16 - Leverkusen fire and insurance claim:
A fire on March 20, 2001 damaged a section of the Company's Leverkusen,
Germany 35,000 metric ton sulfate-process TiO2 plant ("Sulfate Plant") and, as a
result, production of TiO2 at the Leverkusen facility was halted. The fire did
not enter the Company's adjacent 125,000 metric ton chloride-process TiO2 plant
("Chloride Plant"), but did damage certain support equipment necessary to
operate that plant. The damage to the support equipment resulted in a temporary
shutdown of the Chloride Plant.
On April 8, 2001, repairs to the damaged support equipment were
substantially completed and full production resumed at the Chloride Plant. The
Sulfate Plant became approximately 50% operational in September 2001 and became
fully operational in late October 2001. The damages to property and the business
interruption losses caused by the fire were covered by insurance as noted below,
but the effect on the financial results of the Company on a quarter-to-quarter
basis was impacted by the timing and amount of insurance recoveries.
The Company reached an agreement and settled the coverage claim involving
the Leverkusen fire for $56.4 million during the fourth quarter of 2001 ($46.9
million received as of December 31, 2001, with the remaining $9.5 million
received in January 2002), of which $27.3 million related to business
interruption and $29.1 million related to property damage, clean-up costs and
other extra expenses. The Company recognized a $17.5 million pre-tax gain in
2001 related to the property damage recovery after deducting $11.6 million of
clean-up costs and other extra expenses incurred and the carrying value of
assets destroyed in the fire. The gain was excluded from the determination of
operating income. The $27.3 million of business interruption proceeds recognized
in 2001 were allocated between other income, excluding corporate, which reflects
recovery of lost margin ($7.2 million) and as a reduction of cost of sales to
offset unallocated period costs ($20.1 million). No additional recoveries
related to the Leverkusen fire are expected to be received.
Note 17 - Other items:
Advertising costs are expensed as incurred and were $1 million in each of
2000, 2001 and 2002.
Research, development and certain sales technical support costs are
expensed as incurred and approximated $6 million in each of 2000, 2001 and 2002.
Interest capitalized in connection with long-term capital projects was nil
in each of 2000, 2001 and 2002.
Note 18- Related party transactions:
The Company may be deemed to be controlled by Harold C. Simmons.
Corporations that may be deemed to be controlled by or affiliated with Mr.
Simmons sometimes engage in (a) intercorporate transactions such as guarantees,
management and expense sharing arrangements, shared fee arrangements, tax
sharing agreements, joint ventures, partnerships, loans, options, advances of
funds on open account, and sales, leases and exchanges of assets, including
securities issued by both related and unrelated parties and (b) common
investment and acquisition strategies, business combinations, reorganizations,
recapitalizations, securities repurchases, and purchases and sales (and other
acquisitions and dispositions) of subsidiaries, divisions or other business
units, which transactions have involved both related and unrelated parties and
have included transactions which resulted in the acquisition by one related
party of a publicly held minority equity interest in another related party.
While no transactions of the type described above are planned or proposed with
respect to the Company other than as set forth in these financial statements,
the Company continuously considers, reviews and evaluates, and understands that
Contran, Valhi, NL and related entities consider, review and evaluate, such
transactions. Depending upon the business, tax and other objectives then
relevant, and restrictions under the indentures and other agreements, it is
possible that the Company might be a party to one or more such transactions in
the future.
The Company is a party to various intercorporate services agreements
("ISA") with various related parties discussed below. Under the ISA's, employees
of one company will provide certain management, tax planning, financial and
administrative services to the other company on a fee basis. Such charges are
based upon estimates of the time devoted by the employees of the provider of the
services to the affairs of the recipient, and the compensation of such persons.
The Company is a party to an intercorporate services agreement with NL ("NL
ISA") whereby NL provides certain management, financial and administrative
services to the Company on a fee basis. Intercorporate services fee expense
related to the NL ISA was $5.0 million in 2000, $3.5 million in 2001 $3.7
million in 2002, and $1.0 million and $.9 million in the first quarter of 2002
and 2003, respectively. Following completion of NL's distribution of 48.9% of
the outstanding shares of Kronos common stock to NL shareholders, Kronos expects
that the NL ISA will be amended with terms similar to the original agreement.
Purchases of TiO2 from LPC were $92.5 million in 2000, $93.4 million in
2001, $92.4 million in 2002, and $20.9 million and $27.7 million in the first
quarter of 2002 and 2003, respectively.
Interest income from affiliates related to notes receivable from affiliates
was $20.3 million in 2000, $33.4 million in 2001, $20.8 million in 2002, and
$8.5 million and $.4 million in the first quarter of 2002 and 2003,
respectively. Interest expense to affiliates related to notes payable to
affiliates was $29.0 million in 2000, $23.0 million in 2001, $12.3 million in
2002, and $5.7 million and $.4 million in the first quarter of 2002 and 2003,
respectively.
Tall Pines Insurance Company ("Tall Pines"), Valmont Insurance Company
("Valmont") and EWI provide for or broker certain of the Company's, its joint
venture's and its affiliates' insurance policies. Valmont and Tall Pines are
wholly-owned by Valhi. A son-in-law of Mr. Simmons is the Chairman of the Board
of EWI. Consistent with insurance industry practices, Tall Pines, Valmont and
EWI receive commissions from the insurance and reinsurance underwriters for the
policies that they provide or broker. The Company and its joint venture paid
approximately $5.6 million, $9.7 million, $10.1 million in 2000, 2001, 2002, and
$.8 million in each of the first quarter of 2002 and 2003, respectively, for
policies provided or brokered by Tall Pines, Valmont and EWI. The premiums paid
by affiliates (other than the Company and its joint venture) for policies
provided or brokered by EWI in 2002, and the first quarter of 2002 and 2003 was
approximately $7.6 million, and approximately $.5 million and $1.6 million,
respectively. These amounts principally included payments for reinsurance and
insurance premiums paid to unrelated third parties, but also included
commissions paid to Tall Pines, Valmont and EWI. In the Company's opinion, the
amounts that the Company paid for these insurance policies and the allocation
among the Company and its affiliates of relative insurance premiums are
reasonable and similar to those they could have obtained through unrelated
insurance companies and/or brokers. The Company expects that these relationships
with Tall Pines, Valmont and EWI will continue in 2003.
During 2000 NL and an officer of both the Company and NL entered into an
agreement whereby stock options held by the officer to purchase an aggregate of
100,000 shares of NL's common stock were exercised. On a net basis, NL made
aggregate cash payments to the officer of approximately $1.3 million and NL
charged the Company an equivalent amount for stock compensation expense. See
Note 2. During 2002 NL and an officer of both the Company and NL entered into an
agreement whereby stock options held by the officer to purchase an aggregate of
160,400 shares of NL's common stock were exercised or canceled for value. On a
net basis, NL made aggregate cash payments to the officer of approximately $.7
million, and NL charged the Company an equivalent amount for stock compensation
expense. See Note 2.
From time to time, the Company loans funds to related parties. See Notes 11
and 13. These loans permit the Company to earn a higher rate of return on cash
not needed at the time for use in its operations than it could otherwise earn.
While such loans are of a lesser credit quality than cash equivalent instruments
otherwise available to the Company, the Company believes that it has evaluated
the credit risks involved, and that those risks are reasonable and reflected in
the terms of the loans.
Amounts receivable from and payable to affiliates are summarized in the
following table.
December 31, March 31,
-------------------- -----------
2001 2002 2003
---------- ---------- ------------
(Unaudited)
(In thousands)
Current receivable from affiliates:
NL - income taxes ................... $ -- $ 628 $ 1,260
Other ............................... 47 54 56
------- ------- -------
------- ------- -------
$ 47 $ 682 $ 1,316
======= ======= =======
======= ======= =======
Current payable to affiliates:
NL .................................. $ 4,939 $ 319 $ --
NL - income taxes ................... 64 -- 531
LPC ................................. 6,362 7,614 9,931
------- ------- -------
------- ------- -------
$11,365 $ 7,933 $10,462
======= ======= =======
Amounts payable to LPC are generally for the purchase of TiO2 (see Note 7),
and amounts payable to NL principally relate to accrued interest on affiliate
loans.
Note 19 - Commitments and contingencies:
Leases
The Company leases, pursuant to operating leases, various manufacturing and
office space and transportation equipment. Most of the leases contain purchase
and/or various term renewal options at fair market and fair rental values,
respectively. In most cases management expects that, in the normal course of
business, leases will be renewed or replaced by other leases.
Kronos' principal German operating subsidiary leases the land under its
Leverkusen TiO2 production facility pursuant to a lease expiring in 2050. The
Leverkusen facility, with approximately one-third of Kronos' current TiO2
production capacity, is located within the lessor's extensive manufacturing
complex. Rent for the Leverkusen facility is periodically established by
agreement with the lessor for periods of at least two years at a time. Under a
separate supplies and services agreement expiring in 2011, the lessor provides
some raw materials, including chlorine and certain amounts of sulfuric acid,
auxiliary and operating materials and utilities services necessary to operate
the Leverkusen facility. Both the lease and the supplies and services agreements
restrict the Company's ability to transfer ownership or use of the Leverkusen
facility.
Net rent expense aggregated $9 million in 2000, $8 million in 2001 and $10
million in 2002. At December 31, 2002, minimum rental commitments under the
terms of noncancellable operating leases were as follows:
Real Estate Equipment
---------------- ----------------
(In thousands)
Years ending December 31,
2003 $ 2,164 $2,232
2004 2,116 1,643
2005 1,692 984
2006 1,424 382
2007 1,414 174
2008 and thereafter 18,110 692
------- ------
------- ------
$26,920 $6,107
======= ======
Approximately $16.5 million of the $26.9 million real estate minimum rental
commitment is attributable to the Leverkusen, Germany facility. The minimum
commitment is determined by taking the current annual rental rate in effect at
December 31, 2002 and extending out the annual rate to the year 2050.
Purchase commitments
The Company has long-term supply contracts that provide for the Company's
chloride feedstock requirements through 2006. The agreements require the Company
purchase certain minimum quantities of feedstock with average minimum annual
purchase commitments aggregating approximately $156 million.
Environmental, product liability and litigation matters
The Company's operations are governed by various foreign environmental laws
and regulations. Certain of the Company's businesses are and have been engaged
in the handling, manufacture or use of substances or compounds that may be
considered toxic or hazardous within the meaning of applicable environmental
laws. As with other companies engaged in similar businesses, certain past and
current operations and products of the Company have the potential to cause
environmental or other damage. The Company has implemented and continues to
implement various policies and programs in an effort to minimize these risks.
The policy of the Company is to maintain compliance with applicable foreign
environmental laws and regulations at all of its facilities and to strive to
improve its environmental performance. It is possible that future changes in
environmental laws and enforcement policies thereunder, could affect the
Company's production, handling, use, storage, transportation, sale or disposal
of such substances as well as adversely affect the Company's consolidated
financial position, results of operations or liquidity.
The Company's production facilities operate within an environmental
regulatory framework in which governmental authorities typically are granted
broad discretionary powers which allow them to issue operating permits under
which the plants must operate. The Company believes all of its plants are in
substantial compliance with applicable environmental laws.
While the laws regulating operations of industrial facilities in Europe
vary from country to country, a common regulatory denominator is provided by the
European Union (the "EU"). Germany and Belgium are members of the EU and follow
its initiatives. Norway, although not a member, generally patterns its
environmental regulatory actions after the EU. The Company believes that Kronos
has obtained all required permits and is in substantial compliance with
applicable EU requirements, including EU Directive 92/112/EEC regarding
establishment of procedures for reduction and eventual elimination of pollution
caused by waste from the TiO2 industry.
At all of the Company's sulfate plant facilities other than Fredrikstad,
Norway, the Company recycles spent acid either through contracts with third
parties or using the Company's own facilities. At its Fredrikstad, Norway plant,
the Company ships its spent acid to a third party location where it is treated
and disposed. The Company has a contract with a third party to treat certain
by-products of its German sulfate-process plants. Either party may terminate the
contract after giving four years advance notice with regard to its Nordenham,
Germany plant. Under certain circumstances, Kronos may terminate the contract
after giving six months notice with respect to treatment of by-products from the
Leverkusen, Germany plant.
The Company landfills waste generated at its Nordenham, Germany and
Langerbrugge, Belgium plants and mine tailings waste generated at its mining
facility in Norway. The Company maintains reserves, as required under GAAP, to
cover the anticipated cost of closure of these landfills, which were
approximately $.1 million and $.5 million as of December 31, 2001 and 2002,
respectively.
The Company is responsible for certain closure costs at landfills used and
formerly used by its Leverkusen, Germany TiO2 plants. The Company has a reserve
of approximately $5 million and $6 million related to such landfills as of
December 31, 2001 and 2002, respectively.
The Company's Belgian subsidiary and various of its Belgian employees are
the subject of an investigation by Belgian authorities relating to an accident
resulting in two fatalities that occurred in its Langerbrugge, Belgium facility
in October 2000. The investigation stage, which could ultimately result in civil
and criminal sanctions against the Company, was completed in 2002. In May 2003
the Belgian authorities referred the proceedings against the Company's Belgian
subsidiary and certain of its Belgian employees to the criminal court for trial.
The matter has been set for trial in October 2003.
The Company is also involved in various other environmental, contractual,
product liability and other claims and disputes incidental to its business.
The Company currently believes the disposition of all claims and disputes,
individually or in the aggregate, should not have a material adverse effect on
the Company's consolidated financial condition, results of operations or
liquidity.
Concentrations of credit risk
Sales of TiO2 accounted for more than 90% of net sales from continuing
operations during each of the past three years. The remaining sales result from
the mining and sale of ilmenite ore (a raw material used in the sulfate pigment
production process), and the manufacture and sale of iron-based water treatment
chemicals (derived from co-products of the TiO2 production processes). TiO2 is
generally sold to the paint, plastics and paper industries. Such markets are
generally considered "quality-of-life" markets whose demand for TiO2 is
influenced by the relative economic well-being of the various geographic
regions. TiO2 is sold to over 4,000 customers, with the top ten customers
approximating 25% of net sales in each of the last three years. Approximately
one-half of the Company's TiO2 sales by volume were to Europe in each of the
past three years and approximately 37% in 2000, 38% in 2001 and 39% in 2002 of
sales were attributable to North America.
Consolidated cash, cash equivalents and current restricted cash equivalents
includes $17.7 million and $13.8 million invested in U.S. Treasury securities
purchased under short-term agreements to resell at December 31, 2001 and 2002,
respectively, of which $9.6 million and $10.4 million, respectively, of such
securities are held in trust for the Company by a single U.S. bank.
Note 20 - Financial instruments:
Summarized below is the estimated fair value and related net carrying value
of the Company's financial instruments.
December 31, December 31,
2001 2002
--------------------------- -------------------------
Carrying Fair Carrying Fair
Amount Value Amount Value
------------- ------------- ------------ ------------
(In millions)
Cash, cash equivalents, and
noncurrent restricted marketable debt securities $ 55.3 $ 55.3 $ 47.1 $ 47.1
Notes payable and long-term debt:
Fixed rate with market quotes:
11.75% First-Tier Senior Mirror Note to NL $ 194.0 $ 194.9 $ - $ -
8.875% Senior Secured Notes - - 296.9 299.9
Variable rate debt 48.7 48.7 29.0 29.0
Note payable to affiliate - - 44.6 44.6
Fair value of the noncurrent restricted marketable debt securities were
based upon quoted market prices at December 31, 2001 and 2002. Fair value of the
Company's 11.75% First-Tier Senior Mirror Note was based upon quoted market
prices of the NL Notes at December 31, 2001. Fair value of the Company's Notes
was based upon quoted market prices at December 31, 2002. Fair value
approximated carrying value on the Company's variable rate debt and note payable
to affiliate because the variable interest rate on all of such indebtedness is
deemed to approximate market rates. The Company held no derivative financial
instruments at December 31, 2001 or 2002.
Note 21 - Capital Contribution:
On January 31, 2000, NL contributed its investment of $291.9 million in NL
Capital Corporation ("NLCC"), a wholly owned subsidiary of NL, to the Company,
which immediately contributed it to KII. NLCC then merged with KII (with KII
being the surviving corporation in the merger.) The net assets acquired in the
merger were recorded at predecessor carryover basis in accordance with GAAP due
to the common control of KII and NLCC by NL. NLCC previously conducted NL's
rheological additives business which was sold in 1998. Substantially all of the
net proceeds from the sale of the operational assets related to the rheological
additives business were loaned to NL and the Company. Subsequent to the sale,
NLCC did not conduct any operations and its major assets held were such notes
receivable from affiliates. Of the $291.9 million, $240.1 million represented
noncurrent notes receivable from NL, which were classified as a reduction of
stockholder's equity at the time of the merger.
Note 22 - Quarterly financial data (unaudited):
Quarter ended
-------------------------------------------------------------------
March 31 June 30 Sept. 30 Dec. 31
---------------- -------------- ----------------- -----------------
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
Year ended December 31, 2001:
Net sales $ 226,060 $ 220,105 $ 206,952 $ 181,982
Cost of sales 149,902 151,320 145,945 130,893
Operating income 51,916 45,170 36,222 35,879(a)
Net income 35,965 35,641 25,442 57,408(a)
$ .74 $ .73 $ .52 $ 1.18(a)
================ =============== ================ =================
Basic and diluted weighted average
common shares and potential common
shares outstanding 48,776 48,776 48,776 48,776
================ =============== ================ =================
Year ended December 31, 2002:
Net sales $ 202,357 $ 226,909 $ 234,061 $ 211,861
Cost of sales 156,253 176,247 177,521 161,809
Operating income 22,159 24,665 29,619 20,064
Net income 16,996 23,299(b) 17,030 9,311
$ .35 $ .48(b) $ .35 $ .19
================ =============== ================ =================
Basic and diluted weighted average
common shares and potential common
shares outstanding 48,776 48,776 48,776 48,776
================ =============== ================ =================
The sum of the quarterly per share amounts may not equal the annual per share
amounts due to relative changes in the weighted average number of shares used in
the per share computations.
(a) Operating income in the fourth quarter of 2001 included $16.6 million of
pretax insurance recoveries for business interruption related to prior 2001
quarters due to the Leverkusen fire. Net income in the fourth quarter of
2001 also included $11.6 million net of pretax insurance recoveries for
property damage related to the Leverkusen fire and a $17.6 million net
income tax benefit related to a restructuring of the Company's German
subsidiaries.
(b) Net income in the second quarter of 2002 included a one-time foreign
currency transaction gain of $6.3 million related to the extinguishment of
certain intercompany indebtedness. Net income in second quarter 2002 also
included $1.5 million pretax of additional interest expense related to the
early extinguishment of the Company's 11.75% First-Tier Senior Mirror Note.
Note 23 - Subsequent event:
On June 30, 2003, the Company distributed EWI to NL in the form of a noncash
dividend. In accordance with GAAP, all financial statements of the Company as of
and for periods ended on or after June 30, 2003 will exclude the financial
position, results of operations and cash flows of EWI retroactively from the
date of the Company's acquisition of EWI in January 2002. For periods subsequent
to the Company's January 2002 acquisition of EWI, the effect of such restatement
on the Company's previously-reported net income and cash flows will not be
material, and the effect of such restatement on the Company's
previously-reported stockholder's equity will be a reduction of approximately
$10 million.
