Alliance One 10K 2011



UNITED STATES
SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-K


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Alliance One International, Inc.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Virginia

001-13684

54-1746567

(State or other jurisdiction
of incorporation)

(Commission File Number)

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)


8001 Aerial Center Parkway

Morrisville, North Carolina 27560-8417

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Telephone Number (919) 379-4300

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of Each Class

Name of Exchange On Which Registered

Common Stock (no par value)

New York Stock Exchange

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:   None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.                                                                                                                                                                    Yes [  ]  No [X]

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Exchange Act.                                                                                                                                                   Yes [  ]  No [X]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.                                                                                                                                                                  Yes [X]  No [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).                                                                                                                                                          Yes [  ]  No [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.    [  ]

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):                                                                           

Large Accelerated Filer    [  ]    Accelerated Filer    [X]    Non-Accelerated filer    [  ]    Smaller Reporting Company    [  ]  
                                                                   (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
                                                                                                                                                                          Yes [  ]  No [X]

 

As of September 30, 2010, the aggregate market value of the registrant’s common stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant was approximately $340.1 million based on the closing sale price of the common stock as reported on the New York Stock Exchange.  As of June 6, 2011, there were 87,083,419 shares of Common Stock outstanding (no par value) excluding 7,853,121 shares owned by a wholly owned subsidiary.

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE

Certain information contained in the Proxy Statement for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders (to be held August 11, 2011) of the registrant is incorporated by reference into Part III hereof.








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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART I

 

ITEM 1.

BUSINESS

ITEM 1A.

RISK FACTORS

ITEM 1B.

UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

ITEM 2.

PROPERTIES

ITEM 3.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

ITEM 4.

[REMOVED AND RESERVED]

 

 

PART II

 

ITEM 5.

MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

ITEM 6.

SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

ITEM 7.

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

ITEM 7A.

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

ITEM 8.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

 

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

REPORTS OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

ITEM 9.

CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE

ITEM 9A.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

ITEM 9B.

OTHER INFORMATION

 

 

PART III

 

ITEM 10.

DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

ITEM 11.

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

ITEM 12.

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS

ITEM 13.

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE

ITEM 14.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES

 

 

PART IV

 

ITEM 15.

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES




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PART I


ITEM 1.  BUSINESS

 

A.  The Company


Alliance One is a Virginia corporation with revenues of approximately $2.1 billion and operating income of approximately $132.9 million for the year ended March 31, 2011.  Our common stock has been traded on the New York Stock Exchange since 1995. Through our predecessor companies, we have a long operating history in the leaf tobacco industry with some customer relationships beginning in the early 1900s.  Alliance One is one of only two global publicly held leaf tobacco merchants, each with substantially similar global market shares. We have broad geographic processing capabilities, a diversified product offering and an established customer base, including all of the major consumer tobacco product manufacturers.  Our goal is to be the preferred supplier of quality tobacco products and innovative solutions to the world’s manufacturers and marketers of tobacco products.  


Additional Information

We are required to file annual, quarterly and current reports, proxy statements and other information with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).  The public may read and copy any materials that we file with the SEC at the SEC’s Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549.  Information on the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330.  In addition, the SEC maintains an internet site that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file with the SEC at http://www.sec.gov.

          Our website address is http://www.aointl.com. We make available free of charge through our website our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and all amendments to those reports as soon as reasonably practicable after such material is electronically filed with or furnished to the SEC.  The information contained on our website shall not be deemed part of this annual report on Form 10-K for any reason.


B.  The Business


Leaf tobacco merchants purchase, process, pack, store and ship tobacco to manufacturers of cigarettes and other consumer tobacco products throughout the world.  In an increasing number of markets, we also provide agronomy expertise for growing leaf tobacco.  Our revenues are primarily comprised of sales of processed tobacco and fees charged for processing and related services to these manufacturers of tobacco products.  Processing and other revenues are less than 5% of our total revenues.  We do not manufacture cigarettes or other consumer tobacco products.

          We deal primarily in flue-cured, burley, and oriental tobaccos that are used in international brand cigarettes.  Several of the large multinational cigarette manufacturers have expanded their operations throughout the world, particularly in Asia, Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union, in order to increase their access to and penetration of international brand cigarette markets.  As cigarette manufacturers expand their global operations, we believe that demand will increase for local sources of leaf tobacco and local tobacco processing and distribution, primarily due to beneficial tariff rates and lower freight costs.  For some large multinational cigarette manufacturers, international expansion will cause them to place greater reliance on the services of leaf tobacco merchants with the ability to source and process tobacco on a global basis and to help develop higher quality local sources of tobacco by improving local agronomic practices.  For other large multinational cigarette manufacturers, international expansion also includes vertical integration of their operations, either through acquisition of our competitors, establishing new operations or contracting directly with suppliers.  Recently, Japan Tobacco, Inc. enhanced their direct leaf procurement capabilities by acquiring small leaf processors in Malawi and Brazil and forming a joint venture for tobacco leaf in the United States.  Both Alliance One and the other global publicly held leaf tobacco merchant have assigned supplier contracts and sold related assets to Philip Morris International, Inc. (“PMI”) in Brazil as PMI strengthens their direct leaf procurement capabilities.  We will continue to work with our customers to meet all their needs as their buying patterns and business models change while continuing to be a provider of quality tobacco products and innovative solutions.


Purchasing

Tobacco is primarily purchased directly from suppliers with small quantities still sold at auction.  In non-auction markets, we purchase tobacco directly from suppliers and we assume the risk of matching the quantities and grades required by our customers to the entire crop we must purchase under contract.  In other non-auction markets, such as Argentina and China, we buy tobacco from local entities that have purchased tobacco from suppliers and supervise the processing of that tobacco by those local entities.  Principal auction markets include India, Malawi and Zimbabwe and our network of tobacco operations and buyers allows us to cover the major auctions of flue-cured and burley tobacco throughout the world.  In the United States, a number of our U.S. customers purchase tobacco directly from the suppliers in addition to the leaf merchants.  Although our U.S. facilities process the tobacco purchased directly from suppliers by these customers, we do not take ownership of that tobacco and do not record sales revenues associated with its resale.  The number of customers purchasing tobacco directly from suppliers and the locations in which they purchase tobacco directly from suppliers has expanded recently.



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Purchasing (continued)

          Our arrangements with suppliers vary from locale to locale depending on our predictions of future supply and demand, local historical practice and availability of capital.  In certain jurisdictions, we purchase seeds, fertilizer, pesticides and other products related to growing tobacco and advance them to suppliers, which represents prepaid inventory.  The suppliers then utilize these inputs to grow tobacco, which we are contractually obligated to purchase.  The advances of inputs for the current crop generally include the original cost of the inputs plus a mark-up and interest as it is earned. Where contractually permitted, we charge interest to the suppliers during the period the current crop advance is outstanding. We generally advance inputs at a price greater than our cost, which results in a mark-up on the inputs.  We account for our advances to tobacco suppliers using a cost accumulation model, which results in us reporting our advances at the lower of cost or recoverable amounts excluding the mark-up and interest. The mark-up and interest on our advances are recognized when the tobacco is delivered as a decrease in our cost of the current crop.  Upon delivery of tobacco, part of the purchase price paid to the supplier is paid in cash and part through a reduction of the advance balance.  The advances applied to the delivery are then reclassed out of advances and included as unprocessed inventory. We advance inputs only to suppliers with whom we have purchase contracts. For example, in Brazil, we generally contract to purchase a supplier's entire tobacco crop at the market price per grade at the time of harvest based on the quality of the tobacco delivered.  Pursuant to these purchase contracts, we provide suppliers with fertilizer and other materials necessary to grow tobacco and may guarantee Brazilian rural credit loans to suppliers to finance the crop.  Under longer-term arrangements with suppliers, we may advance or guarantee financing on suppliers' capital assets, which are also recovered through the delivery of tobacco to us by our suppliers.

          In these jurisdictions, our agronomists maintain frequent contact with suppliers prior to and during the growing and curing seasons to provide technical assistance to improve the quality and yield of the crop. As a result of various factors including weather, not all suppliers are able to settle the entire amount of advances through delivery of tobacco in a given crop year. Throughout the crop cycle, we monitor events that may impact the suppliers’ ability to deliver tobacco.  If we determine we will not be able to recover the original cost of the advances with deliveries of the current crop, or future crop deliveries, the unit cost of tobacco actually received is increased when unrecoverable costs are within a normal range which is based on our historical results or expensed immediately when they are above a normal range based on our historical results. We account for the unrecoverable costs in this manner to ensure only costs within a normal range are capitalized in inventory and costs that are above a normal range are expensed immediately as current period charges.

          Alliance One has developed an extensive international network through which we purchase, process and sell tobacco and we hold a leading position in most tobacco growing regions in the world.  We purchase tobacco in more than 45 countries.  During the three years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, approximately 35%, 36% and 39%, respectively, of our purchases of tobacco were from the South America operating segment and approximately 65%, 64% and 61%, respectively, were from the Other Regions operating segment.  Within the Other Regions operating segment, approximately 30%, 32% and 32% of our purchases for the three years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively, were from Malawi, China, the United States and Turkey.


Processing

We process tobacco to meet each customer's specifications as to quality, yield, chemistry, particle size, moisture content and other characteristics.  Unprocessed tobacco is a semi-perishable commodity that generally must be processed within a relatively short period of time to prevent fermentation or deterioration in quality.  The processing of leaf tobacco facilitates shipping and prevents spoilage and is an essential service to our customers because the quality of processed leaf tobacco substantially affects the quality of the manufacturer’s end product.  Accordingly, we have located our production facilities in proximity to our principal sources of tobacco.

          We process tobacco in more than 50 owned and third-party facilities around the world including Argentina, Brazil, Canada, China, Guatemala, India, Tanzania, the United States, Malawi, Thailand, Germany, Indonesia, Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkey.  These facilities encompass all leading export locations of flue-cured, burley and oriental tobaccos.  In addition, we have entered into contracts, joint ventures and other arrangements for the purchase of tobacco grown in substantially all other countries that produce export-quality flue-cured and burley tobacco.  

          Upon arrival at our processing plants, flue-cured and burley tobacco is first reclassified according to grade.  Most of that tobacco is then blended to meet customer specifications regarding color, body and chemistry, threshed to remove the stem from the leaf and further processed to produce strips of tobacco and sieve out small scrap.  We also sell a small amount of processed but unthreshed flue-cured and burley tobacco in loose-leaf and bundle form to certain customers.  Oriental tobaccos are handled and processed in a similar manner other than that the tobaccos are not threshed to remove stems.

          Processed flue-cured, burley and oriental tobacco is redried to remove excess moisture so that it can be held in storage by customers or us for long periods of time.  After redrying, whole leaves, bundles, strips or stems and scrap where applicable are separately packed in cases, bales, cartons or hogsheads for storage and shipment.  Packed flue-cured, burley and oriental tobacco generally is transported in the country of origin by truck or rail, and exports are moved by ship.  Prior to and during processing, steps are taken to ensure consistent quality of the tobacco, including the regrading and removal of undesirable leaves, dirt and other non-tobacco related material.  Customer representatives are frequently present at our facilities to monitor the processing of their particular orders.  Throughout the processing, our technicians use quality control laboratory test equipment to ensure that the product meets all customer specifications.




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Selling

We ship tobacco to manufacturers of cigarettes and other consumer tobacco products located in more than 90 countries around the world as designated by these manufacturers.  We recognize sales revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price to the customer is fixed, collectability is reasonably assured and title and risk of ownership is passed to the customer, which is upon shipment or delivery. In certain countries we also use commissioned agents to supplement our selling efforts.  Individual shipments may be large, and since the customer typically specifies shipping dates, our financial results may vary significantly between reporting periods due to timing of sales. In some markets, principally the United States, we process tobacco that is owned by our customers, and revenue is recognized when the processing is completed.

          The consumer tobacco business is dominated by a relatively small number of large multinational cigarette manufacturers and by government controlled entities.  Including their respective affiliates, accounting for more than 10% of our revenues from continuing operations were each of Philip Morris International, Inc., Japan Tobacco, Inc. (“JTI”) and British American Tobacco p.l.c. for the years ended March 31, 2011 and 2010; and PMI and JTI for the year ended March 31, 2009.  

          In 2011, Alliance One delivered approximately 54% of its tobacco sales to customers in Europe and approximately 14% to customers in the United States.  One customer directs shipments to its Belgium storage and distribution center before shipment to its manufacturing facilities in Europe and Asia.  In 2011, these Belgium sales accounted for 24% of sales to customers in Europe.  The remaining sales are to customers located in Asia, Africa and other geographic regions of the world.


Seasonality

The purchasing and processing activities of our tobacco business are seasonal.  Flue-cured tobacco grown in the United States is purchased, processed and marketed generally during the five-month period beginning in July and ending in November.  U.S. grown burley tobacco is purchased, processed and marketed usually from late November through January or February.  Tobacco grown in Brazil is usually purchased, processed and marketed from January through July and in Africa from April through September.  Other markets around the world have similar purchasing periods, although at different times of the year.

          During the purchasing, processing and marketing seasons, inventories of unprocessed tobacco, inventories of redried tobacco and trade accounts receivable normally reach peak levels in succession.  Current liabilities, particularly advances from customers and short-term notes payable to banks, normally reach their peak in this period as a means of financing the seasonal expansion of current assets.  At March 31, the end of our fiscal year, the seasonal components of our working capital reflect primarily the operations related to foreign grown tobacco.


Competition

Alliance One is one of only two global publicly held leaf tobacco merchants, with substantially similar global market shares in markets in which we both operate.  We expect to maintain a major position in most major tobacco growing regions in the world, including the principal export markets for flue-cured, burley and oriental tobacco and, as a result of our scale, global reach, and financial resources, we believe we are well-suited to serve the needs of all manufacturers of cigarettes and other consumer tobacco products.

          The leaf tobacco industry is highly competitive and competition is based primarily on the price charged for products and services as well as the merchant's ability to meet customer specifications in the buying, processing, residue compliance and financing of tobacco.  In addition to the primary global independent leaf tobacco merchants, there are a number of other independent global, regional or national competitors.  Local independent leaf merchants with low fixed costs and overhead also supply cigarette manufacturers.  Recent vertical integration initiatives and other changes in customer buying patterns have resulted in a more dynamic and competitive operating environment.  There is also competition in all countries to buy the available leaf tobacco and in many areas, total leaf tobacco processing capacity exceeds demand.


Reportable Segments

The purchasing, processing, selling and storing of leaf tobacco is similar throughout our business.  However, we maintain regional operating and financial management in North America, South America, Europe, Africa and Asia to monitor our various operations in these areas.  In reviewing these operations, we have concluded that the economic characteristics of South America are dissimilar from the other operating regions.  Based on this fact, we disclose South America separately and have aggregated the remaining four operating segments, Africa, Asia, Europe and North America into one reportable segment “Other Regions.”  Our financial performance is reviewed at this level and these regions represent our operating segments.  See Note 14 “Segment Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for financial information attributable to our reportable segments.


C.  Other


Research and Development

We routinely cooperate with both our customers and the manufacturers of the equipment used in our processing facilities to improve processing technologies.  However, no material amounts are expended for research and development, and we hold no material patents, licenses, franchises, or concessions.






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Alliance One Employees

Alliance One’s consolidated entities employed approximately 3,300 persons, excluding seasonal employees, in our worldwide operations at March 31, 2011.  In the Other Regions operating segment, Alliance One’s consolidated entities employed approximately 2,600 employees at March 31, 2011 excluding approximately 4,000 seasonal employees.  During processing periods, most seasonal employees as well as approximately 200 full-time factory personnel in the United States are covered by collective bargaining agreements.  In the South America operating segment, Alliance One’s consolidated entities employed approximately 700 persons, excluding approximately 3,400 seasonal employees, at March 31, 2011.  We consider Alliance One’s employee relations to be satisfactory.


Government Regulation and Environmental Compliance

See Item 1A. “Risk Factors” for a discussion of government regulation.  Currently there are no material estimated capital expenditures related to environmental control facilities.  In addition, there is no material effect on capital expenditures, results of operations or competitive position anticipated as a result of compliance with current or pending federal or state laws and regulations relating to protection of the environment.  


EXECUTIVE OFFICERS OF ALLIANCE ONE INTERNATIONAL, INC.


The following information is furnished with respect to the Company’s executive officers as of April 1, 2011, and the capacities in which they serve.  These officers serve at the pleasure of the Board of Directors and are elected at each annual organizational meeting of the Board.


NAME

AGE

TITLE

Mark W. Kehaya

43

Chairman and Interim Chief Executive Officer

 

 

 

J. Pieter Sikkel

47

President

 

 

 

J. Henry Denny

60

Executive Vice President - Global Operations

 

 

 

Robert A. Sheets

56

Executive Vice President – Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer

 

 

 

William L. O’Quinn, Jr.

42

Senior Vice President - Chief Legal Officer and Secretary


The business experience summaries provided below for the Company’s executive officers describe positions held by the named individuals during the last five years.


Mark W. Kehaya has served as Chairman of Alliance One and Interim Chief Executive Officer since December 14, 2010, and remains a founding partner at Meriturn Partners, LLC, an investment firm specializing in restructurings and turnarounds of middle-market companies, since January 2002.  


J. Pieter Sikkel has served as President of Alliance One International, Inc., since December 14, 2010, having previously served as Executive Vice President – Business Strategy and Relationship Management from April 2007 through December 13, 2010 , and as Regional Director of Asia from May 2005 through April 2007 ..


J. Henry Denny has served as Executive Vice President – Global Operations since July 2009, having previously served as Regional Director of North and Central America from June 2006 through July 2009, and as Director of Leaf Purchasing for North America from May 2005 through June 2006.


Robert A. Sheets has served as Executive Vice President - Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer since December 14, 2010, having previously served as Executive Vice President – Chief Financial Officer from April 1, 2008 through December 13, 2010, and as a member of the Board of Directors and as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of a corporate predecessor, Standard Commercial Corporation, until its merger into Alliance One in May 2005.  


William L. O’Quinn, Jr. has served as Senior Vice President - Chief Legal Officer and Secretary since April 1, 2011, having previously served as Senior Vice President - Secretary since January 1, 2011, and as Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Secretary from August 2005.  



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ITEM 1A.    RISK FACTORS


The following risk factors should be read carefully in connection with evaluating our business and the forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report on Form 10-K. Any of the following risks could materially adversely affect our business, our operating results, our financial condition and the actual outcome of matters as to which forward-looking statements are made in this Annual Report.

          We may from time to time make written or oral forward-looking statements, including statements contained in filings with the SEC, in reports to stockholders and in press releases and investor calls and webcasts. You can identify these forward-looking statements by use of words such as “strategy,” “expects,” “continues,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “will,” “estimates,” “intends,” “projects,” “goals,” “targets” and other words of similar meaning. You can also identify them by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts.

          We cannot guarantee that any forward-looking statement will be realized, although we believe we have been prudent in our plans and assumptions. Achievement of future results is subject to risks, uncertainties and inaccurate assumptions. Should known or unknown risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove inaccurate, actual results could vary materially from those anticipated, estimated or projected. Investors should bear this in mind as they consider forward-looking statements and whether to invest in or remain invested in Alliance One International, Inc. securities. In connection with the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, we are identifying important risk factors that, individually or in the aggregate, could cause actual results and outcomes to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements made by us; any such statement is qualified by reference to the following cautionary statements. We elaborate on these and other risks we face throughout this document. You should understand that it is not possible to predict or identify all risk factors. Consequently, you should not consider the following to be a complete discussion of all potential risks or uncertainties. We do not undertake to update any forward-looking statement that we may make from time to time.


Risks Relating to Our Operations


Our reliance on a small number of significant customers may adversely affect our results of operations.

Our customers are manufacturers of cigarette and other tobacco products. Several of these customers individually account for a significant portion of our sales in a normal year.

          For the year ended March 31, 2011, each of Philip Morris International, Inc., British American Tobacco p.l.c. and Japan Tobacco Inc., including their respective affiliates, accounted for more than 10% of our revenues from continuing operations.

          In addition, tobacco product manufacturers are experiencing consolidation and further consolidation among our customers could decrease such customers’ demand for our leaf tobacco or processing services. The loss of any one or more of such customers could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or results of operations.

          Further, demand for our leaf tobacco or processing services could be materially reduced if cigarette manufacturers continue to  significantly vertically integrate their operations, either through acquisition of our competitors, establishing new operations or contracting directly with suppliers.  Japan Tobacco, Inc. began its vertical integration operations with the current crop in Malawi, Brazil and the United States.  Our results of operations were adversely affected.  Philip Morris International, Inc. acquired supplier contracts and related assets in Brazil in fiscal 2011 to procure leaf directly beginning with the 2011 crop.  Further vertical integration by our customers could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and results of operations.  


Global shifts in sourcing customer requirements may negatively impact our organizational structure and asset base.

The global leaf tobacco industry is experiencing shifts in the sourcing of customer requirements for tobacco. For example, significant tobacco production volume decreases have occurred in the United States, Zimbabwe and Western Europe from historical levels. At the same time, production volumes in other sourcing origins, such as Brazil and other areas of Africa, are stabilizing.  Additional shifts in sourcing may occur as a result of currency fluctuations, including devaluation of the U.S. dollar.  A shift in sourcing origins in Europe has been influenced by modifications to the tobacco price support system in the European Union (EU). Customer requirements are changing due to these variations in production, therefore influencing our ability to plan effectively for the longer term in Europe.

          We may not be able to timely or efficiently adjust to these shifts in sourcing origins, and adjusting to these shifts may require changes in our production facilities in certain origins and changes in our fixed asset base. We have incurred, and may continue to incur, restructuring charges as we continue to adjust to these shifts in sourcing. Adjusting our capacity and adjusting to these shifts in sourcing may have an adverse impact on our ability to manage our costs, and could have an adverse effect on our financial performance.


Our financial results will vary according to growing conditions, customer indications and other factors, which reduces your ability to gauge our quarterly and annual financial performance.

Our financial results, particularly the quarterly financial results, may be significantly affected by fluctuations in tobacco growing seasons and crop sizes which affect the supply of tobacco. The cultivation period for tobacco is dependent upon a number of factors, including the weather and other natural events, such as hurricanes or tropical storms, and our processing schedule and results of operations can be significantly altered by these factors.




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Risks Relating to Our Operations (continued)


Our financial results will vary according to growing conditions, customer indications and other factors, which reduces your ability to gauge our quarterly and annual financial performance. (continued)

          The cost of acquiring tobacco can fluctuate greatly due to smaller crop sizes and increased competition in certain markets in which we purchase tobacco.  For example, in Malawi, a smaller 2007 crop and increased competition in the Malawi market increased green tobacco costs at auction by almost 100%, while processing and overhead costs also increased.  Furthermore, short crops in periods of high demand translate into higher average green prices, higher throughput costs and less volume to sell.

          Further, the timing and unpredictability of customer indications, orders and shipments cause us to keep tobacco in inventory, increase our risk and result in variations in quarterly and annual financial results. The timing of shipments can be materially impacted by shortages of containers and vessels for shipping as well as infrastructure and accessibility issues in ports we use for shipment.  We may from time to time in the ordinary course of business keep a significant amount of processed tobacco in inventory for our customers to accommodate their inventory management and other needs. Sales recognition by us and our subsidiaries is based on the passage of ownership, usually with shipment of product. Because individual shipments may represent significant amounts of revenue, our quarterly and annual financial results may vary significantly depending on our customers’ needs and shipping instructions. These fluctuations result in varying volumes and sales in given periods, which also reduces your ability to compare our financial results in different periods or in the same periods in different years.


Suppliers who have historically grown tobacco and from whom we have purchased tobacco may elect to grow other crops instead of tobacco, which affects the world supply of tobacco and may impact our quarterly and annual financial performance.

Increases in the prices for other crops have led and may in the future lead suppliers who have historically grown tobacco, and from whom we have purchased tobacco, to elect to grow these other, more profitable items instead of tobacco.  A decrease in the volume of tobacco available for purchase may increase the purchase price of such tobacco.  As a result, we could experience an increase in tobacco crop acquisition costs which may impact our quarterly and annual financial performance.


Our advancement of inputs to tobacco suppliers could expose us to losses.

We advance inputs to our suppliers, which represent prepaid inventory, in many countries to allow the suppliers to grow tobacco, which we are contractually obligated to purchase. The advances to tobacco suppliers are settled as part of the consideration paid upon the suppliers delivering us unprocessed tobacco at market prices. Two primary factors determine the market value of the tobacco suppliers deliver to us: the quantity of tobacco delivered and the quality of the tobacco delivered. Unsatisfactory quantities or quality of the tobacco delivered could result in losses of amounts advanced to our tobacco suppliers or the deferral of those advances.


When we purchase tobacco directly from suppliers, we bear the risk that the tobacco will not meet our customers’ quality and quantity requirements.

In countries where we contract directly with tobacco suppliers, including Argentina, Brazil, the United States and certain African countries, we bear the risk that the tobacco delivered will not meet quality and quantity requirements of our customers. If the tobacco does not meet such market requirements, we may not be able to sell the tobacco we agreed to buy and may not be able to meet all of our customers’ orders, which would have an adverse effect on profitability and results of operations.


Weather and other conditions can affect the marketability of our inventory.

Like other agricultural products, the quality of tobacco is affected by weather and the environment, which can change the quality or size of the crop. If a weather event is particularly severe, such as a major drought or hurricane, the affected crop could be destroyed or damaged to an extent that it would be less desirable to our customers, which would result in a reduction in revenues. If such an event is also widespread, it could affect our ability to acquire the quantity of products required by customers. In addition, other items can affect the marketability of tobacco, including, among other things, the presence of:


·

non-tobacco related material;

·

genetically modified organisms; and

·

excess residues of pesticides, fungicides and herbicides.


          A significant event impacting the condition or quality of a large amount of any of the tobacco crops we buy could make it difficult for us to sell such tobacco or to fill our customers’ orders.  In addition, in the event of climate change, adverse weather patterns could develop in the growing regions in which we purchase tobacco.  Such adverse weather patterns could result in more permanent disruptions in the quality and size of the available crop, which could adversely affect our business.




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Risks Relating to Our Operations (continued)


We face increased risks of doing business due to the extent of our international operations.

We do business in more than 45 countries, some of which do not have stable economies or governments. Our international operations are subject to international business risks, including unsettled political conditions, uncertainty in the enforcement of legal obligations, including the collection of accounts receivable, expropriation, import and export restrictions, exchange controls, inflationary economies, currency risks and risks related to the restrictions on repatriation of earnings or proceeds from liquidated assets of foreign subsidiaries. These risks are exacerbated in countries where we have advanced substantial sums or guaranteed local loans or lines of credit for the purchase of tobacco from suppliers. For example, in 2006 as a result of the political environment, economic instability, foreign currency controls and governmental regulations in Zimbabwe, we deconsolidated our Zimbabwe subsidiaries.  

         Our international operations are in areas where the demand is for the export of lower priced tobacco.  We have significant investments in our purchasing, processing and exporting operations in Argentina, Brazil, Malawi, Tanzania and Turkey.

          In recent years, economic problems in certain African countries have received wide publicity related to devaluation and appreciation of the local currency and inflation. Devaluation and appreciation can affect our purchase costs of tobacco and our processing costs.  In addition, we conduct business with suppliers and customers in countries that have recently had or may be subject to dramatic political regime change, such as Tunisia and Egypt.  In the event of such dramatic changes in the government of such countries, we may be unable to continue to operate our business, or adequately enforce legal obligations, after the change in a manner consistent with prior practice.

          We are subject to potentially inconsistent actions by the governments of certain foreign countries in which we operate which may have a significant impact on our financial results. For example, in 2006, our concession to promote tobacco production in the Chifunde district of Mozambique was terminated by the government. Thereafter, we assessed our remaining Mozambique operations without the Chifunde district and determined that it was not in our economic interest to remain in Mozambique without this strategic district. Consequently, we discontinued our operations within Mozambique after the 2006 crop.


We are subject to the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the “FCPA”) and operate in jurisdictions that pose a high risk of potential FCPA violations.

We are subject to the FCPA, which generally prohibits companies and their intermediaries from making improper payments to foreign officials for the purpose of obtaining or keeping business and/or other benefits. We operate in a number of jurisdictions that pose a high risk of potential FCPA violations.  Although our corporate policy prohibits foreign bribery and we have adopted procedures to promote compliance, there is no assurance that our policy or procedures will work effectively all of the time or protect us against liability under the FCPA for actions taken by our agents, employees and intermediaries with respect to our business or any businesses that we acquire. Failure to comply with the FCPA, other anti-corruption laws and other laws governing the conduct of business with government entities (including local laws) could lead to criminal and civil penalties and other remedial measures (including further changes or enhancements to our procedures, policies, and controls, the imposition of a compliance monitor at our expense and potential personnel changes and/or disciplinary actions), any of which could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition, results of operations and liquidity. Any investigation of any potential violations of the FCPA or other anti-corruption laws by U.S. or foreign authorities also could have an adverse impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

           Additionally, we have recently resolved an investigation for potential criminal and civil violations of the FCPA. In March 2004, we discovered potential irregularities with respect to certain bank accounts in southern Europe and central Asia. Our Audit Committee engaged an outside law firm to conduct an investigation of activity relating to these accounts. The investigation revealed that there were payments from these accounts that may have violated the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. In May 2004, we voluntarily reported the matter to the U.S. Department of Justice (“Justice”). Soon thereafter, we closed the accounts in question, implemented personnel changes and other measures designed to prevent similar situations in the future, including the addition of new finance and internal audit staff and enhancement of existing training programs, and disclosed these circumstances in our filings with the SEC. In August 2006, we learned that the SEC had issued a formal order of investigation of us and others to determine if these or other actions, including those in other countries in which we do business, may have violated the FCPA or other provisions of the Exchange Act and rules thereunder. In May 2008, we learned that Justice began conducting an investigation into possible violations of the FCPA or other federal criminal laws stemming from the same actions being investigated by the SEC.  The SEC’s investigation was resolved on August 26, 2010.  The Justice’s investigation was resolved on October 21, 2010.  The settlements resulted in the disgorgement in profits and fines totaling $19.45 million, which have been paid.  Both settlements require us to retain an independent compliance monitor for a term of three years.  


Our exposure to changes in foreign tax regimes could adversely impact our business.

We do business in countries that have tax regimes in which the rules are not clear, are not consistently applied and are subject to sudden change. This is especially true with regard to international transfer pricing. Our earnings could be reduced by the uncertain and changing nature of these tax regimes.




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Risks Relating to Our Operations (continued)


Fluctuations in foreign currency exchange and interest rates could adversely affect our results of operations.

We conduct our business in many countries around the world. Our business is generally conducted in U.S. dollars, as is the business of the leaf tobacco industry as a whole. However, we generally must purchase tobacco in non-U.S. countries using local currency. As a result, local country operating costs, including the purchasing and processing costs for tobaccos, are subject to the effects of exchange fluctuations of the local currency against the U.S. dollar.  When the U.S. dollar weakens against foreign currencies, our costs for purchasing and processing tobacco in such currencies increases.  We attempt to minimize such currency risks by matching the timing of our working capital borrowing needs against the tobacco purchasing and processing funds requirements in the currency of the country where the tobacco is grown. Fluctuations in the value of foreign currencies can significantly affect our operating results.

          In addition, the devaluation of foreign currencies has resulted and may in the future result in reduced purchasing power from customers whose capital resources are denominated in those currencies. We may incur a loss of business as a result of the devaluation of these currencies now or in the future.


Low investment performance by our defined benefit pension plan assets may increase our pension expense, and may require us to fund a larger portion of our pension obligations, thus, diverting funds from other potential uses.

We sponsor defined benefit pension plans that covers certain eligible employees. Our pension expense and required contributions to our pension plan are directly affected by the value of plan assets, the projected rate of return on plan assets, the actual rate of return on plan assets, and the actuarial assumptions we use to measure the defined benefit pension plan obligations.

          Due to the significant market downturn that began in 2008, plan asset values declined significantly. If plan assets perform below the assumed rate of return used to determine pension expense, future pension expense will increase. Further, as a result of the global economic instability, our pension plan investment portfolio has recently incurred greater volatility.

          The proportion of pension assets to liabilities, which is called the funded status, determines the level of contribution to the plan that is required by law. In recent years, we have funded the plan in amounts as required, but changes in the plan’s funded status related to the value of assets or liabilities could increase the amount required to be funded.  We cannot predict whether changing market or economic conditions, regulatory changes or other factors will further increase our pension funding obligations, diverting funds we would otherwise apply to other uses.


Competition could erode our earnings.

The leaf tobacco industry is highly competitive. We are one of two global publicly held competitors in the leaf tobacco industry, each with approximately equal market share. Competition is based primarily on the prices charged for products and services as well as the merchant’s ability to meet customer specifications in the buying, processing and financing of tobacco. In addition, there is competition in all countries to buy the available tobacco. The loss or substantial reduction of any large or significant customer could reduce our earnings.

          In addition to the two primary global independent leaf tobacco merchants, the cigarette manufacturers increasingly buy tobacco directly from suppliers, and new independent leaf merchants are entering the leaf purchasing and processing business. We face increasing competition from new local and regional independent leaf merchants with low fixed costs and overhead and good customer connections at the local level. These new independent merchants are buying an increasing portion of the crops in certain international markets, particularly Brazil and parts of Africa, where the new entrants have been able to capitalize in the global transition to those markets.  Any of these sources of new competition may result in less tobacco available for us to purchase and process in the applicable markets.


We have identified several material weaknesses related to our internal control in the past, and there can be no assurance that material weaknesses will not be identified in the future.

In the past, we have identified certain matters involving our internal control over financial reporting that we and our independent registered public accounting firm determined to be material weaknesses under standards established by the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board.  We remediated those material weaknesses in internal control over financial reporting, and we believe that our internal control over financial reporting was effective at March 31, 2011 and 2010 as reported elsewhere in this Annual Report.  Although we intend to continue to monitor and improve our internal controls, we cannot assure you that other material weaknesses will not occur in the future.  Any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered in their implementation, could cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations or result in misstatements in our financial statements in amounts that could be material. Inferior internal controls could cause investors to lose confidence in our reported financial information, which could have a negative effect on the value of our common stock and could also require additional restatements of our prior reported financial information.



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Risks Relating to Our Capital Structure


We may not continue to have access to the capital markets to obtain long-term and short-term financing on acceptable terms and conditions.

We access the short-term capital markets and, from time to time, the long-term markets to obtain financing.  Although we believe that we can continue to access the capital markets in fiscal 2012 on acceptable terms and conditions, our access and the availability of acceptable terms and conditions are impacted by many factors, including:  (i) our credit ratings; (ii) the liquidity and volatility of the overall capital markets, which has been negatively impacted by the U.S. sub-prime debt turmoil; and (iii) the current state of the economy, including the tobacco industry.  There can be no assurances that we will continue to have access to the capital markets on terms acceptable to us.


We may not have access to available capital to finance our local operations in non-U.S. jurisdictions.

We have typically financed our non-U.S. local operations with uncommitted short-term operating credit lines at the local level. These operating lines are typically seasonal in nature, normally extending for a term of 180 to 270 days corresponding to the tobacco crop cycle in that location. These facilities are typically uncommitted in that the lenders have the right to cease making loans or demand payment of outstanding loans at any time. In addition, each of these operating lines must be renewed with each tobacco crop season in that jurisdiction. Although our foreign subsidiaries are the borrowers under these lines, many of them are guaranteed by us.

          As of March 31, 2011, we had approximately $231.4 million drawn and outstanding on foreign seasonal lines with maximum capacity totaling $798.6 million subject to limitations as provided for in our Credit Agreement.  Additionally against these lines there was $14.0 million available in unused letter of credit capacity with $4.9 million issued but unfunded.

          Because the lenders under these operating lines typically have the right to cancel the loan at any time and each line must be renewed with each crop season, there can be no assurance that this capital will be available to our subsidiaries. If a number of these lenders cease lending to our subsidiaries or dramatically decrease such lending, it could have a material adverse affect on our liquidity.


Failure of foreign banks in which our subsidiaries deposit funds or the failure to transfer funds or honor withdrawals may affect our results of operations.

Funds held by our foreign subsidiaries are often deposited in their local banks. Banks in certain foreign jurisdictions may be subject to a higher rate of failure or may not honor withdrawals of deposited funds. In addition, the countries in which these local banks operate may lack sufficient regulatory oversight or suffer from structural weaknesses in the local banking system. Due to uncertainties and risks relating to the political stability of certain foreign governments, these local banks also may be subject to exchange controls and therefore unable to perform transfers of certain currencies. If our ability to gain access to these funds was impaired, it could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.


We have substantial debt which may adversely affect us by limiting future sources of financing, interfering with our ability to pay interest and principal on the senior notes and subjecting us to additional risks.

We have a significant amount of indebtedness and debt service obligations. As of March 31, 2011, we had approximately $1,116.6 million of indebtedness. In addition, the indenture governing the senior notes allows us to incur additional indebtedness under certain circumstances. If we add new indebtedness to our current indebtedness levels, the related risks that we now face could increase.

          Our substantial debt will have important consequences, including:


·

that our indebtedness may make it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations with respect to the senior notes and our other obligations;

·

that our indebtedness may limit our ability to obtain additional financing on satisfactory terms and to otherwise fund working capital, capital expenditures, debt refinancing, acquisitions and other general corporate requirements;

·

that a significant portion of our cash flow from operations must be dedicated to paying interest on and the repayment of the principal of our indebtedness. This reduces the amount of cash we have available for making principal and interest payments under the senior notes and for other purposes and makes us more vulnerable to a decrease in demand for leaf tobacco, increases in our operating costs or general economic or industry conditions;

·

that our ability to adjust to changing market conditions and to compete with other global leaf tobacco merchants may be hampered by the amount of debt we owe;

·

increasing our vulnerability to general adverse economic and industry conditions;

·

placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less debt or are less leveraged;

·

limiting our flexibility in planning for, or reacting to, changes in our business and the industry in which we operate; and

·

restricting us from making strategic acquisitions or exploiting business opportunities.





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Risks Relating to Our Capital Structure (continued)


We have substantial debt which may adversely affect us by limiting future sources of financing, interfering with our ability to pay interest and principal on the senior notes and subjecting us to additional risks. (continued)

          In addition, the indenture governing the senior notes and our senior secured credit facility each contain financial and other restrictive covenants that will limit our ability to engage in activities that may be in our long-term best interests. Our failure to comply with those covenants could result in an event of default which, if not cured or waived, could result in the acceleration of all of our debt. Also, a substantial portion of our debt, including borrowings under our senior secured credit facility, bears interest at variable rates. If market interest rates increase, variable-rate debt will create higher debt service requirements, which would adversely affect our cash flow. While we may enter into agreements limiting our exposure to higher debt service requirements, any such agreements may not offer complete protection from this risk.


Despite current indebtedness levels, we may still be able to incur substantially more debt. This could exacerbate further the risks associated with our significant leverage.

We may be able to incur substantial additional indebtedness in the future.  The terms of the indentures governing our publicly traded senior notes and our credit agreement restrict, but do not completely prohibit, us from doing so. Our senior secured credit facility provides for a revolving credit line that was increased to $290.0 million. There was $148.0 million outstanding under this facility at March 31, 2011. If new debt is added to our current debt levels, the related risks we now face could intensify.  


The indentures governing the senior notes and our senior secured credit facility contain, and in the future could contain additional, covenants and tests that limit our ability to take actions or cause us to take actions we may not normally take.

The indentures governing the senior notes and our senior secured credit facility contain a number of significant covenants. These covenants limit our ability to, among other things:


·

incur additional indebtedness;

·

issue preferred stock;

·

merge, consolidate or dispose of substantially all of our assets;

·

grant liens on our assets;

·

pay dividends, redeem stock or make other distributions or restricted payments;

·

repurchase or redeem capital stock or prepay subordinated debt;

·

make certain investments;

·

agree to restrictions on the payment of dividends to us by our subsidiaries;

·

sell or otherwise dispose of assets, including equity interests of our subsidiaries;

·

enter into transactions with our affiliates; and

·

enter into certain sale and leaseback transactions.


          Our senior secured credit facility and the indentures require us to meet certain financial tests. Complying with these covenants and tests may cause us to take actions that we otherwise would not take or not take actions that we otherwise would take. The failure to comply with these covenants and tests would cause a default under the credit facility and, under the indenture, would prevent us from taking certain actions, such as incurring additional debt, paying dividends or redeeming senior notes or subordinated debt. A default, if not waived, could result in the debt under our senior secured credit facility and the indenture becoming immediately due and payable and could result in a default or acceleration of our other indebtedness with cross-default provisions. If this occurs, we may not be able to pay our debt or borrow sufficient funds to refinance it. Even if new financing is available, it may not be on terms that are acceptable to us.


We have had to obtain waivers and amendments under our existing financing arrangements to avoid future defaults or cure past defaults.

In the recent past and subsequent to year end, we have sought and obtained waivers and amendments under our existing financing arrangements to avoid future non-compliance with financial covenants and cure past defaults under restrictive covenants. We also paid significant fees to obtain these waivers and consents.  You should consider this in evaluating our ability to comply with restrictive covenants in our debt instruments and the financial costs of our ability to do so.  Any future defaults for which we do not obtain waivers or amendments could result in the acceleration of a substantial portion of our indebtedness, much of which is cross-defaulted to other indebtedness.










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Risks Relating to Our Capital Structure (continued)


We will require a significant amount of cash to service our indebtedness. Our ability to generate cash depends on many factors beyond our control.

Our ability to make payments on and to refinance our indebtedness, including the notes, and to fund planned capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future. This is subject to general economic, financial, competitive and other factors that may be beyond our control. We cannot assure you that our business will generate sufficient cash flow from operations or that future borrowings will be available to us under our senior secured credit facility or otherwise in an amount sufficient to enable us to pay our indebtedness, including the senior notes, or to fund our other liquidity needs. We may need to refinance all or a portion of our indebtedness, including the senior notes, on or before maturity. We cannot assure you that we will be able to refinance any of our debt, including our senior secured credit facility or the senior notes, on commercially reasonable terms or at all.  Additionally, to the extent permitted under our senior secured credit agreement and indentures, we may repurchase, repay or tender for our bank debt, senior notes or senior subordinated notes, which may place pressure on future cash requirements to the extent that the debt repurchased, repaid or tendered cannot be redrawn.


If we refinance our current credit facilities, we may not be able to obtain the same credit availability or at interest rates similar to our current credit facilities.

If the worsening of credit market conditions continues or increases, it could have a material adverse impact on our ability to refinance our current credit facilities on similar or better terms than our current credit facility.


Risks Related to Global Financial and Credit Markets


Volatility and disruption of global financial and credit markets may negatively impact our ability to access financing and expose us to unexpected risks.

Global financial and credit markets exposes us to a variety of risks as we fund our business with a combination of cash from operations, short-term seasonal credit lines, our revolving credit facility, long-term debt securities and customer advances.  We have financed our non-U.S. operations with uncommitted unsecured short term seasonal lines of credit at the local level.  These local operating lines typically extend for a term of up to one year and are typically uncommitted in that the lenders have the right to cease making loans and demand repayment of loans at any time.  As of March 31, 2011, we had approximately $231.4 million drawn and outstanding on foreign seasonal lines with maximum capacity totaling $798.6 million.  Changes in the global financial and credit markets could create uncertainty as to whether local seasonal lines will continue to be available to finance our non-U.S. operations to the extent or on terms similar to what has been available in the past and whether repayment of existing loans under these lines will be demanded prior to maturity.  To the extent that local seasonal lines cease to be available at levels necessary to finance our non-U.S. operations or we are required to repay loans under the lines prior to maturity, we may be required to seek alternative financing sources beyond our existing committed sources of funding.  Based on the current financial and credit markets, we cannot assure you that such alternative funding will be available to us on terms and conditions acceptable to us, or at all.  In the event that we may be required to support our non-U.S. operations by borrowing U.S. dollars under our existing revolving credit line, we may be exposed to additional currency exchange risk that we may be unable to successfully hedge.  Further, there is additional risk that certain banks in the U.S. revolving credit line syndicate could be unable to meet contractually obligated borrowing requests in the future if their financial condition were to deteriorate.  In addition, we maintain deposit accounts with numerous financial institutions around the world in amounts that exceed applicable governmental deposit insurance levels.  While we actively monitor our deposit relationships, we are subject to risk of loss in the event of the unanticipated failure of a financial institution in which we maintain deposits, which loss could be material to our results of operations and financial condition.


Derivative transactions may expose us to potential losses and counterparty risk.

We have entered into certain derivative transactions, including interest rate swaps and foreign exchange contracts. Changes in the fair value of these derivative financial instruments that are not accounted for as cash flow hedges are reported as income, and accordingly could materially affect our reported income in any period. In addition, the counterparties to these derivative transactions, and to the convertible note hedge transactions, are financial institutions or affiliates of financial institutions, and we are subject to risks that these counterparties default under these transactions. In some of these transactions, including the convertible note hedge transactions, our exposure to counterparty credit risk is not secured by any collateral.  Global economic conditions over the last few years have resulted in the actual or perceived failure or financial difficulties of many financial institutions, including bankruptcy.  If one or more of the counterparties to one or more of our derivative transactions not secured by any collateral becomes subject to insolvency proceedings, we will become an unsecured creditor in those proceedings with a claim equal to our exposure at the time under those transactions.  We can provide no assurances as to the financial stability or viability of any of our counterparties.








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Risks Relating to the Tobacco Industry


Reductions in demand for consumer tobacco products could adversely affect our results of operations.

The tobacco industry, both in the United States and abroad, continues to face a number of issues that may reduce the consumption of cigarettes and adversely affect our business, sales volume, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.

          These issues, some of which are more fully discussed below, include:


·

governmental actions seeking to ascribe to tobacco product manufacturers liability for adverse health effects associated with smoking and exposure to environmental tobacco smoke;

·

smoking and health litigation against tobacco product manufacturers;

·

tax increases on consumer tobacco products;

·

current and potential actions by state attorneys general to enforce the terms of the Master Settlement Agreement, or MSA, between state governments in the United States and tobacco product manufacturers;

·

governmental and private bans and restrictions on smoking;

·

actual and proposed price controls and restrictions on imports in certain jurisdictions outside the United States;

·

restrictions on tobacco product manufacturing, marketing, advertising and sales;

·

the diminishing social acceptance of smoking;

·

increased pressure from anti-smoking groups;

·

other tobacco product legislation that may be considered by Congress, the states, municipalities and other countries; and

·

the impact of consolidation among multinational cigarette manufacturers.


Tobacco product manufacturer litigation may reduce demand for our services.

Our primary customers, the leading cigarette manufacturers, face thousands of lawsuits brought throughout the United States and, to a lesser extent, the rest of the world. These lawsuits have been brought by plaintiffs, including (1) individuals and classes of individuals alleging personal injury and/or misleading advertising, (2) governments (including governmental and quasi-governmental entities in the United States and abroad) seeking recovery of health care costs allegedly caused by cigarette smoking, and (3) other groups seeking recovery of health care expenditures allegedly caused by cigarette smoking, including third-party health care payors, such as unions and health maintenance organizations. Damages claimed in some of the smoking and health cases range into the billions of dollars. There have been several jury verdicts in tobacco product litigation during the past several years. Additional plaintiffs continue to file lawsuits.  The effects of the lawsuits on our customers could reduce their demand for tobacco from us.


Recent legislation and regulatory and other governmental initiatives could impose burdensome restrictions on the tobacco industry and reduce consumption of consumer tobacco products and demand for our services.

The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, which was enacted in June 2009, extends the authority of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to regulate tobacco products. This act authorizes the FDA to adopt product standards for tobacco products, including the level of nicotine yield and the reduction or elimination of other constituents of the products, along with provisions for the testing of products against these standards. The act imposes further restrictions on advertising of tobacco products, authorizes the FDA to limit the sales of tobacco products to face-to-face transactions permitting the verification of the age of the purchaser, authorizes a study to determine whether the minimum age for the purchase of tobacco products should be increased and requires submission of reports from manufacturers of tobacco products to the FDA regarding product ingredients and other matters, including reports on health, toxicological, behavioral, or physiologic effects of tobacco products and their constituents.  The act also mandates warning labels and requires packaging to indicate the percentage of domestically grown tobacco and foreign grown tobacco included in the product.

          In addition, the act directs the FDA to promulgate regulations requiring that the methods used in, and the facilities and controls used for, the manufacture, preproduction design validation, packing, and storage of a tobacco product conform to current good manufacturing practice.  The act does not apply to tobacco leaf that is not in the possession of a manufacturer of tobacco products, or to the producers of tobacco leaf, including tobacco suppliers, tobacco warehouses, and tobacco supplier cooperatives unless those entities are controlled by a tobacco product manufacturer. The full impact of this legislation and the required regulatory actions is uncertain.  However, if the effect of such legislation is a significant reduction in consumption of tobacco products, it could materially adversely affect our business, volume, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition.










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Risks Relating to the Tobacco Industry (continued)


Recent legislation and regulatory and other governmental initiatives could impose burdensome restrictions on the tobacco industry and reduce consumption of consumer tobacco products and demand for our services. (continued)

          Reports with respect to the harmful physical effects of cigarette smoking have been publicized for many years, and the sale, promotion and use of cigarettes continue to be subject to increasing governmental regulation. Since 1964, the Surgeon General of the United States and the Secretary of Health and Human Services have released a number of reports linking cigarette smoking with a broad range of health hazards, including various types of cancer, coronary heart disease and chronic lung disease, and recommending various governmental measures to reduce the incidence of smoking. More recent reports focus upon the addictive nature of cigarettes, the effects of smoking cessation, the decrease in smoking in the United States, the economic and regulatory aspects of smoking in the Western Hemisphere, and cigarette smoking by adolescents, particularly the addictive nature of cigarette smoking in adolescence. Numerous state and municipal governments have taken and others may take actions to diminish the social acceptance of smoking of tobacco products, including banning smoking in certain public and private locations.

          A number of foreign nations also have taken steps to restrict or prohibit cigarette advertising and promotion, to increase taxes on cigarettes and to discourage cigarette smoking. In some cases, such restrictions are more onerous than those in the United States. For example, advertising and promotion of cigarettes has been banned or severely restricted for a number of years in Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Italy, Singapore and other countries. Further, in February 2005, the World Health Organization (“WHO”) treaty, the Framework Convention for Tobacco Control (“FCTC”), entered into force. This treaty, to which 164 nations were parties at March 31, 2009, requires signatory nations to enact legislation that would require, among other things, specific actions to prevent youth smoking; restrict or prohibit tobacco product marketing; inform the public about the health consequences of smoking and the benefits of quitting; regulate the content of tobacco products; impose new package warning requirements including the use of pictorial or graphic images; eliminate cigarette smuggling and counterfeit cigarettes; restrict smoking in public places; increase and harmonize cigarette excise taxes; abolish duty-free tobacco sales; and permit and encourage litigation against tobacco product manufacturers.

          Due to the present regulatory and legislative environment, a substantial risk exists that past growth trends in tobacco product sales may not continue and that existing sales may decline.


Government actions can have a significant effect on the sourcing of tobacco. If some of the current efforts are successful, we could have difficulty obtaining sufficient tobacco to meet our customers’ requirements, which could have an adverse effect on our performance and results of operations.

The WHO, through the FCTC, has created a formal study group to identify and assess crop diversification initiatives and alternatives to leaf tobacco growing in countries whose economies depend upon tobacco production. The study group began its work in February 2007. If certain countries were to partner with the FCTC study group and seek to eliminate or significantly reduce leaf tobacco production, we could encounter difficulty in sourcing leaf tobacco to fill customer requirements, which could have an adverse effect on our results of operations.


We have been, and continue to be, subject to governmental investigations into, and litigation concerning, leaf tobacco industry buying and other payment practices.

The leaf tobacco industry, from time to time, has been the subject of government investigations regarding trade practices. For example, we were the subject of an investigation by the Antitrust Division of the United States Department of Justice into certain buying practices alleged to have occurred in the industry, we were named defendants in an antitrust class action litigation alleging a conspiracy to rig bids in the tobacco auction markets, and we were the subject of an administrative investigation into certain tobacco buying and selling practices alleged to have occurred within the leaf tobacco industry in some countries within the European Union, including Spain, Italy, Greece and potentially other countries.

          Our subsidiaries in Spain, Italy and Greece have been subject to these investigations. In 2004, the EC fined us and our Spanish subsidiaries 4.4 million ($5.6 million) solely relating to the investigations in Spain. In respect of the Italian investigation, in October 2005, the EC announced that we and our Italian subsidiaries have been assessed a fine in the aggregate amount of 24.0 million ($28.8 million).  Several tobacco processors, suppliers and agricultural associations that were the subject of the investigation in Italy were assessed fines in various amounts totaling 56.0 million ($67.0 million), inclusive of the fines imposed on us and our subsidiaries. We, along with the applicable subsidiaries, have appealed the decisions of the EC with respect to Spain and Italy to the Court of First Instance of the EC for the annulment or modification of the decision; but the outcome of the appeals process as to both timing and results is uncertain.

          In March 2005, the EC informed us that it had closed its investigation in relation to the Greek leaf tobacco industry buying and selling practices. In relation to these investigations into certain tobacco buying and selling practices, the DGCOMP could decide to pursue investigations into other countries and additional fines may be assessed in those countries.

          We have been made aware of a review by the Malawi Government of the operation of its tobacco auction markets. The Government’s preliminary report suggests that there may have been violations by the leaf dealer industry of certain Malawi competition laws.  The Government’s review has not been finalized and it is not possible to predict its outcome or its possible impact on us. We will continue to cooperate with the relevant authorities.





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ITEM 1B.    UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS


None.


ITEM 2.    PROPERTIES

 

Following is a description of Alliance One’s material properties as of March 31, 2011.


Corporate

Our corporate headquarters are located in Morrisville, North Carolina.

 

Facilities


We own a total of 11 production facilities in 8 countries.  We operate each of our tobacco processing plants for seven to nine months during the year to correspond with the applicable harvesting season.  While we believe our production facilities have been efficiently utilized, we continually compare our production capacity and organization with the transitions occurring in global sourcing of tobacco.  We also believe our domestic production facilities and certain foreign production facilities have the capacity to process additional volumes of tobacco if required by customer demand.

          The following is a listing of the various material properties used in operations all of which are owned by Alliance One:  


                              LOCATION

              USE

 

 

 

 

SOUTH AMERICA SEGMENT

SOUTH AMERICA

 

 

VENANCIO AIRES, BRAZIL

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

ARARANGUA, BRAZIL

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

VERA CRUZ, BRAZIL

STORAGE

 

EL CARRIL, ARGENTINA

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

 

 

 

OTHER REGIONS SEGMENT

UNITED STATES

 

 

WILSON, N.C.

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

FARMVILLE, N.C.

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

DANVILLE, VA

STORAGE

 

 

 

 

AFRICA

 

 

LILONGWE, MALAWI

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

MOROGORO, TANZANIA

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

 

 

 

EUROPE

 

 

IZMIR, TURKEY

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

KARLSRUHE, GERMANY

FACTORY/STORAGE

 

 

 

 

ASIA

 

 

NGORO, INDONESIA

FACTORY/STORAGE

 


ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS


In October 2001, the Directorate General for Competition (“DGCOMP”) of the European Commission (“EC”) began an administrative investigation into certain tobacco buying and selling practices alleged to have occurred within the leaf tobacco industry in some countries within the European Union, including Spain and Italy.  In respect of the investigation into practices in Spain, in 2004, the EC fined the Company and its Spanish subsidiaries 4.4 million (US$5.6 million).  In respect of the investigation into practices in Italy, in October 2005, the EC announced that the Company and its Italian subsidiaries have been assessed a fine in the aggregate amount of 24.0 million (US$28.8 million).  With respect to both the Spanish and Italian investigations, the fines imposed on the Company and its predecessors and subsidiaries were part of fines assessed on several participants in the applicable industry.  The Company, along with its applicable subsidiaries, has appealed the decisions of the EC with respect to Spain and Italy to the Court of First Instance of the European Commission for the annulment or modification of the decision, but the outcome of the appeals process as to both timing and results is uncertain.  The Company has fully recognized the impact of each of the fines set forth above and has paid all of such fines as part of the appeal process.



- 16 -











- 17 -






ITEM 3.    LEGAL PROCEEDINGS (continued)


          Mindo, S.r.l., the purchaser in 2004 of the Company’s Italian subsidiary Dimon Italia, S.r.l., has asserted claims against subsidiaries of the Company arising out of that sale transaction in an action filed before the Court of Rome on April 12, 2007.  The claim, allegedly arising from a guaranty letter issued by a consolidated subsidiary of the Company in connection with the sale transaction, seeks the recovery of 7.4 million (US$10.4 million) plus interest and costs.  A hearing for the disposition of this matter is scheduled for December 2011.

          On December 13, 2007, the Public Prosecutors offices in the States of Santa Catarina and Parana filed claims against the Company’s Brazilian subsidiary, Alliance One Brazil Exportadora de Tobaccos Ltda. (“AOB”) and a number of other tobacco processors, on behalf of all tobacco suppliers in those states.  The lawsuits primarily asserted that an employment relationship existed between tobacco processors and tobacco suppliers.  On March 11, 2011, AOB agreed to a settlement of these claims and these actions have been dismissed.  Under the terms of the settlement, AOB agreed to record-keeping and other requirements not expected to materially increase the cost of operations in these states.

          On June 6, 2008, AOB and a number of other tobacco processors were notified of a class action initiated by the ALPAG - Associação Lourenciana de Pequenos Agricultrores ("Association of Small Farmers of São Lourenço”). The class action’s focus is a review of tobacco supplier contracts and business practices, specifically aiming to prohibit processors from notifying the national credit agency of producers in debt, prohibiting processors from deducting tobacco suppliers’ debt from payments for tobacco, and seeking the modification of other contractual terms historically used in the purchase of tobacco.  The case is currently before the 2nd civil court of São Lourenço do Sul.  The Company’s motion to dismiss the class action is currently pending.  The Company believes this claim to be without merit and is vigorously defending it. Ultimate exposure if an unfavorable outcome is received is not determinable.


ITEM 4.    [REMOVED AND RESERVED]

 

PART II


ITEM 5.    MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND

      ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES


Alliance One’s common stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange, under the ticker symbol "AOI."

          The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the high and low reported sales prices of our common stock as reported by the NYSE and the amount of dividends declared per share for the periods indicated.


 

Alliance One Common Stock     

 

High 

Low 

Dividends
Declared 

Year Ended March 31, 2011

Fourth Quarter

$ 4.37

$ 3.49

$ -  

Third Quarter

4.83

3.74

-  

Second Quarter

4.15

3.21

-  

First Quarter

5.41

3.64

-  

 

Year Ended March 31, 2010

Fourth Quarter

$ 5.96

$ 4.50

$ -  

Third Quarter

5.23

4.25

-  

Second Quarter

4.73

3.61

-  

First Quarter

5.71

3.19

-  


          As of March 31, 2011, there were approximately 8,849 shareholders, including approximately 7,986 beneficial holders of our common stock.

          The payment of dividends by Alliance One is subject to the discretion of our board of directors and will depend on business conditions, compliance with debt agreements, achievement of anticipated cost savings, financial condition and earnings, regulatory considerations and other factors.  Our senior credit agreement and the indentures governing our senior notes restrict our ability to pay dividends.  See “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations – Liquidity and Capital Resources – Dividends.”

 



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ITEM 5.    MARKET FOR REGISTRANT'S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND

      ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES (continued)


Alliance One International, Inc. Comparison of Cumulative Total Return to Shareholders


The following line graph and table presents the cumulative total shareholder return of a $100 investment including reinvestment of dividends and price appreciation over the last five years in each of the following: Alliance One International, Inc. (AOI) common stock, the S&P 500 Index, the S&P 600 Small Cap Index and an index of peer companies. The sole company in the peer group is Universal Corporation (UVV).




Cumulative Total Return

 

 

Fiscal Year Ended

 

 

03/31/06  

 

3/31/07  

 

3/31/08  

 

3/31/09  

 

3/31/10  

 

3/31/11  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Alliance One International, Inc.

 

$ 100.00  

 

$ 189.92  

 

$ 124.28  

 

$ 79.01  

 

$ 104.73  

 

$   82.72  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Custom Peer Group

 

$ 100.00  

 

$ 174.36  

 

$ 192.08  

 

$ 91.52  

 

$ 169.12  

 

$ 146.02  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S&P 500 Index

 

$ 100.00  

 

$ 111.83  

 

$ 106.15  

 

$ 65.72  

 

$   98.43  

 

$ 113.83  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

S&P Small Cap 600 Index

 

$ 100.00  

 

$ 105.29  

 

$   94.13  

 

$ 58.30  

 

$   95.61  

 

$ 119.77  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 




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ITEM 6.    SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

 

FIVE YEAR FINANCIAL STATISTICS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries


  

Years Ended March 31,

(in thousands, except per share amount, ratio and number of stockholders)

2011

2010

2009

2008

2007

Summary of Operations

 

 

 

 

 

   Sales and other operating revenues

$ 2,094,062 

$ 2,308,299 

$ 2,258,219 

$ 2,011,503 

$ 1,979,078 

   Restructuring charges

23,467 

591 

19,580 

29,773 

   Operating income

132,874 

223,814 

204,462 

93,595 

113,700 

   Debt retirement expense

4,584 

40,353 

954 

5,909 

3,860 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

(72,148)

79,946 

132,830 

9,374 

(1,962)

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

407 

7,855 

(18,730)

         Net income (loss)

(72,148)

79,946 

133,237 

17,229 

(20,944)

   Net income (loss) attributable to
      Alliance One International, Inc.

(71,551)

79,167 

132,558 

16,861 

(21,597)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Per Share Statistics

 

 

 

 

 

   Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share:

 

 

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$           (.81)

$            .89 

$          1.50 

$            .10 

$           (.03)

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

.09 

(.22)

   Net income (loss) attributable to
      Alliance One International, Inc.

(.81)

.89 

1.50 

.19 

(.25)

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share:

 

 

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$           (.81)

$            .78 

$          1.49 

$            .10 

$           (.03)

   Income (loss) from discontinued operations

.09 

(.22)

   Net income (loss) attributable to
      Alliance One International, Inc. (1)

(.81)

.78 

1.49 

.19 

(.25)

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Cash dividends paid

   Book value

3.59 

4.38 

3.67 

2.38 

2.55 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance Sheet Data

 

 

 

 

 

   Working capital

$    846,860 

$    795,229 

$    608,179 

$    440,213 

$    531,983 

   Total assets

1,808,330 

1,911,199 

1,758,519 

1,712,865 

1,653,872 

   Long-term debt

884,371 

788,880 

652,584 

563,973 

726,625 

   Stockholders’ equity attributable to
      Alliance One International, Inc.

312,813 

390,400 

326,661 

211,467 

225,546 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other Data

 

 

 

 

 

   Ratio of earnings to fixed charges

1.30 

1.63 

2.07 

1.02 

1.12 

   Common shares outstanding at year end (3)

87,085 

89,113 

88,974 

88,897 

88,614 

   Number of stockholders at year end (2)

8,849 

7,716 

6,754 

7,670 

7,612 


(1)   For the years ended March 31, 2011 and 2007, all outstanding restricted shares and shares applicable to stock options and         restricted stock units are excluded because their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect on the loss per share.  For the         year ended March 31, 2011, assumed conversion of convertible notes at the beginning of the period has an antidultive         effect on the loss per share.


(2)   Includes the number of stockholders of record and non-objecting beneficial owners.


(3)   Excluding 7,853 shares owned by a wholly owned subsidiary.



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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS



The following discussions should be read in conjunction with the other sections of this report, including the consolidated financial statements and related notes contained in Item 8 of this Form 10-K:



Executive Overview

The following executive overview is intended to provide significant highlights of the discussion and analysis that follows.  


Financial Results


Fiscal year 2011 was a year of change, both for the industry and the Company.  During the fiscal year, the industry went from a balanced demand supply equilibrium to one of oversupply.  In addition, the previously announced partial vertical integration moves by JTI fully affected the Company during the year.  As a result of the industry environment, packed inventories moved slower and were higher then last year by $107.8 million, as well as increasing uncommitted inventories.  Due to this situation, we recorded $15.4 million in inventory write downs to reflect current market pricing.  

          Selling, administrative and general expenses included increased costs for the independent monitor and related matters of $4.8 million and reserves on customer receivables of $3.1 million. Further, the Company incurred a non-cash charge of $2.1 million associated with issuing options.  We also incurred restructuring expenses of $23.5 million reflecting the costs associated with repositioning the Company to meet future market conditions and debt retirement expenses of $4.6 million.

          In Brazil, PMI acquired tobacco supplier contracts and related assets from us to strengthen their supply source beginning with the 2011 crop, which resulted in a one time gain of approximately $37.8 million.   Concurrently, we signed a multi-year contract to process Brazilian tobacco for PMI. Additionally, we also signed a multi-year contract to process JTI tobacco in our new Santa Catarina facility.  

          As a result, operating income decreased 40.6%.  Interest and other finance costs decreased significantly as a result of lower rates in the current year and the non-recurrence of debt refinancing costs in the prior year.  The effective tax rate was 327.1% for 2011 due to a non-cash increase of $108.5 million in the valuation allowance based on management’s evaluation of the realization of U.S. deferred tax benefits.  Consequently, results for the current year were a net loss.  


Liquidity


Our liquidity requirements are affected by crop seasonality, foreign currency and interest rates, green tobacco prices, crop size and quality, as well as other factors. We monitor and adjust funding sources based on a number of industry, business, and financial market dynamics. Movement and changes between these various funding sources enhances enterprise agility and ability to drive various business opportunities.  As a result, during 2011, we purchased $58.6 million of senior notes as well as 2.4 million shares of common stock.  In addition, the third amendment to our senior secured credit facility was closed on June 6, 2011 which extended the term of the agreement, increased our capital expenditure basket as well as modified certain financial covenants and other related items.  We will continue to modify available liquidity as required to maintain appropriate business flexibility and cost controls.


Outlook


While the operating environment will remain dynamic with uncertainties in demand driven by increases in excise taxes, changes in customer buying patterns, uncertainties with respect to economic conditions in many major consumer markets and political uncertainty in the Middle East, we have taken steps to position the Company for this environment.  These steps include: significant efficiency improvements and cost reductions already identified and many of these realized, new investments in Brazil and Macedonia coming on line for the 2011 crop year (FY2012), significant investments in the United States and Tanzania to increase efficiencies and capacities and in Zimbabwe to reopen an idled plant, elevated focus on our value added products and processing group to drive growth and increased processing revenue, as well as continued review of assets to improve efficiencies and utilization.

          We expect green price decreases and lower sales prices for the next fiscal year in most of our operating areas.  Further, due to changes in buying patterns and customer mix and crop delays in South America and Africa, we expect a slower start to the year than normal.   However, we believe the steps we have taken will more than offset the challenges in the operating environment that we are facing over the next fiscal year.  In addition, we are taking further steps to streamline the operations in fiscal year 2012, to position ourselves to meet future cigarette demand growth in Asia and to rekindle growth in other markets for the future.    



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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Results of Operations


Consolidated Statement of Operations

 

Twelve Months Ended March 31,

 

 

Change          

 

Change         

 

(in millions)

2011  

$    

%   

2010  

$   

%   

2009     

Sales and other operating revenues

$ 2,094.1  

$(214.2)

(9.3)

$ 2,308.3  

$  50.1   

2.2 

$ 2,258.2  

Gross profit

276.8  

(119.7)

(30.2)

396.5  

35.7   

9.9 

360.8  

Selling, administrative and general expenses

157.9  

2.5 

1.6 

155.4  

(0.6)  

(0.4)

156.0  

Other income (expense)

37.4  

54.7 

 

(17.3) 

(17.5)  

 

0.2  

Restructuring charges

23.5  

23.5 

 

-  

(0.6)  

 

0.6  

Operating income

132.9  

(90.9) 

 

223.8  

19.3   

 

204.5  

Debt retirement expense

4.6  

(35.8)

 

40.4  

39.4   

 

1.0  

Interest expense

102.7  

(11.1)

 

113.8  

15.8   

 

98.0  

Interest income

7.3  

2.7 

 

4.6  

0.8   

 

3.8  

Income tax expense (benefit)

107.5  

111.3 

 

(3.8) 

18.2   

 

(22.0) 

Equity in net income of investee companies

2.5  

0.5 

 

2.0  

0.5   

 

1.5  

Income from discontinued operations

-  

 

-  

(0.4)  

 

0.4  

Income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

(0.6) 

(1.4)

 

0.8  

0.1   

 

0.7  

Net income (loss) attributable to the Company

$     (71.6) 

$  (150.8)

 

$      79.2  

$ (53.4)*

 

$    132.6*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  *  Amounts do not equal column totals due to rounding.


Sales and Other Operating Revenue Supplemental Information

 

Twelve Months Ended March 31,

 

 

Change          

 

Change        

 

(in millions, except per kilo amounts)

2011  

$     

%   

2010  

$     

%   

2009  

Tobacco sales and other operating revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     Sales and other operating revenues

$ 2,033.4 

$ (204.7)

(9.1)

$ 2,238.1

$  65.4 

3.0 

$ 2,172.7

     Kilos

439.1 

(50.4)

(10.3)

489.5

(8.5)

(1.7)

498.0

     Average price per kilo

$      4.63 

$    0.05 

1.1 

$      4.58

$  0.22 

5.0 

$      4.36

Processing and other revenues

$      60.7 

$     (9.5)

(13.5)

$      70.2

$ (15.3)

(17.9)

$      85.5

Total sales and other operating revenues

$ 2,094.1 

$ (214.2)

(9.3)

$ 2,308.3

$  50.1 

2.2 

$ 2,258.2


Comparison of the Year Ended March 31, 2011 to the Year Ended March 31, 2010

 

Summary

Compared to the prior year, sales and other operating revenues decreased 9.3% and gross profit decreased 30.2% due to JTI’s vertical integration initiative and lower demand by customers as a result of reduced cigarette consumption in some markets. Gross profit as a percentage of sales decreased from 17.2% in 2010 to 13.2% in 2011.  Impacting gross profit was increased lower of cost or market inventory adjustments and margin pressures due to the industry entering into an oversupply situation.  Gross profit was also impacted by higher local costs and product mix.  Selling, administrative and general expenses were relatively constant compared to the prior year although this year includes independent monitor costs of $3.4 million and reserves on customer receivables of $3.1 million.  Other operating income (expense) was $37.4 million in 2011 primarily related to gains of $37.8 million from the sale of contracts with tobacco suppliers and other assets in Brazil to Philip Morris International, Inc. In 2010, other operating income (expense) was $(17.3) million primarily related to recording an estimated loss of $19.5 million, including disgorgement and penalties, in connection with negotiations with the SEC and Department of Justice and their investigation of alleged FCPA violations.  In response to shifting supply and demand balances and the changing business models of customers, several strategic initiatives were implemented this year.  In addition to the appointment of new leadership to better position us for the future, we began realigning origin and corporate operations to increase operational efficiency and effectiveness.  These initiatives resulted in restructuring charges of $23.5 million.  This review is ongoing as we continue to define and execute the necessary changes to support core business functions.  As a result of lower sales and margins, operating income decreased 40.6% or $90.9 million compared to the prior year.





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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Results of Operations (continued)


Comparison of the Year Ended March 31, 2011 to the Year Ended March 31, 2010 (continued)


Summary (continued)

          In 2011, we purchased $23.6 million of our 8.5% senior notes and $35.0 million of our 10% senior notes.  Associated costs and the related accelerated amortization of deferred financing costs and original issue discount resulted in our recording $4.6 million of debt retirement expense this year.  In the prior year, we refinanced our credit facility and long-term debt which resulted in recognition of $40.4 million in significant costs to retire our existing debt and accelerated recognition of the related deferred financing costs and original issue discounts.  Our interest costs decreased $11.1 million as a result of lower interest rates primarily on our seasonal lines of credit.  Although our net financing costs decreased 33.2% from the prior year, our pretax income decreased 55.7% from $74.2 million in 2010 to $32.8 million in 2011.  

          Our effective tax rate changed from a benefit of 5.1% in 2010 to an expense of 327.1% in 2011.  Our effective rates in both years vary significantly from the statutory tax rate due to foreign income tax rates that are lower than the U.S. rate, permanent differences related to local goodwill amortization, exchange gains and losses and currency translation adjustments, and changes to valuation allowance on deferred tax assets.  The significant increase in the tax rate in 2011 is primarily due to an increase in the valuation allowance on U.S. deferred tax assets of $108.5 million.  Management’s evaluation of available positive and negative evidence resulted in a judgment that realization of tax benefits for U.S. deferred tax assets was less than likely and therefore a valuation allowance was recorded.   The effective tax rate varied from the statutory rate in 2010 due to reductions in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits and other factors.


South America Region

Tobacco revenues decreased $116.3 million or 14.1% primarily due to a 46.6 million kilo decrease in quantities sold mainly attributable to the impact of JTI’s vertical integration in Brazil in the prior fiscal year.  Partially offsetting the impact of decreased volumes is an increase of $0.77 per kilo in average sales prices and a $2.8 million increase in processing and other revenues.  The increased average sales price is primarily due to product mix and improved customer pricing to offset higher costs in local currency and exchange rate appreciation.

          Gross profit decreased $50.4 million due to the impact of JTI’s initiative, increased lower of cost or market inventory adjustments of $8.5 million, increased prices paid to suppliers and the exchange rate impact on purchase and processing costs which are denominated in local currency.  Gross profit as a percentage of sales decreased 4.4% as a result of these factors.


Other Regions

Tobacco revenues decreased $88.4 million or 6.3% primarily as a result of a $0.24 per kilo decrease in average sales prices and a 3.8 million kilo decrease in quantities sold.  Decreased average sales prices were primarily due to product mix and the increased sales of lower priced byproducts.  Volume increases in Asia were offset by the negative impact of JTI’s vertical integration initiative, less opportunistic sales and shipping delays, including congestion and other logistical issues at the port of Beira.  Processing and other revenues decreased 18.2% or $12.3 million primarily as a result of decreased customer requirements in Africa and North America including those of JTI.  

          Gross profits decreased $69.3 million in 2011 compared to 2010 primarily due to JTI’s vertical integration initiative, increased lower of cost or market inventory adjustments of $5.9 million, product mix and shipping delays.  Gross profit as a percentage of sales decreased 3.8% as a result of these factors.  


Comparison of the Year Ended March 31, 2010 to the Year Ended March 31, 2009

 

Summary

Sales and other operating revenues increased 2.2% from $2,258.2 million in 2009 to $2,308.3 million in 2010 and gross profit increased 9.9% from $360.8 million in 2009 to $396.5 million in 2010.  Sales increases are the result of a 5.0% or $0.22 per kilo increase in average sales prices partially offset by a 1.7% or 8.5 million kilo decrease in quantities sold and a $15.3 million decrease in processing and other revenues.  Gross profit as a percentage of sales increased from 16.0% in 2009 to 17.2% in 2010.  While selling, administrative and general expenses remained fairly constant, other operating income (expense) was negatively impacted by our recording an estimated loss of $19.5 million, including disgorgement and penalties, in connection with negotiations with the SEC and Department of Justice and their investigation of alleged violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act.  See Note 16 “Contingencies” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.  Including the estimated loss, our operating income still increased $19.4 million compared to the prior year.

          During 2010, we refinanced our credit facility and long-term debt.  As a result, we recorded $40.4 million in debt retirement costs in 2010.  In addition, our interest costs increased $15.8 million as a result of higher debt levels after the refinancing.  Consequently, our pretax income decreased from $109.3 million in 2009 to $74.2 million in 2010.  Our effective tax rate changed from a benefit of 20.1% in 2009 to a benefit of 5.1% in 2010.  Our effective rates in both years vary significantly from the statutory tax rate due to foreign income tax rates that are lower than the U.S. rate, permanent differences related to local goodwill amortization and exchange gains and losses and currency translation adjustments.



- 23 -






ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Results of Operations (continued)


Comparison of the Year Ended March 31, 2010 to the Year Ended March 31, 2009 (continued)


Summary (continued)

          In addition, in 2010, the effective tax rate varied from the statutory rate due to reductions in liabilities for unrecognized tax benefits and other factors.  In 2009, the effective tax rate was lower than the statutory rate due to the decrease in the valuation allowance.


South America Region

Tobacco revenues decreased $36.3 million or 4.2% primarily due to a decrease of 12.1 million kilos in quantities sold partially offset by an increase of $0.11 per kilo in average sales prices.  The decrease in volume is mainly attributable to carryover volumes sold in 2009 that did not recur in 2010 and smaller crop sizes. The increase in average sales price is primarily due to sales of higher priced lamina in the current year compared to the prior year and improved customer pricing.

          Although revenues decreased, gross profit increased $6.5 million primarily due to favorable variances related to supplier advances.  While product mix and improved customer pricing increased average sales prices, the increase was not sufficient to offset the impact of decreased volumes, increased prices of tobacco paid to suppliers and the exchange rate impact on purchase and processing costs which are denominated in local currency.  In addition, increased gains from derivative financial instruments were offset by increased exchange losses this year compared to the prior year due to the volatility of the Brazilian real.     


Other Regions

Tobacco revenues increased $101.7 million or 7.8% primarily as a result of a $0.28 per kilo increase in average sales prices and an increase of 3.6 million kilos in quantities sold.  Processing and other revenues decreased 17.9% or $15.3 million primarily as a result of decreased processing volumes in Africa and Europe.  Gross profits increased $29.2 million in 2010 compared to 2009.  

          Increased revenues and gross profits were primarily from the Africa, North America and Asia regions.  In the Africa region, Malawi had a record crop this year which was the primary driver in increasing revenues and gross profits this year compared to the prior year.  In addition, Tanzania prices increased compared to the prior year as a result of higher costs while their margins improved primarily due to the impact of favorable exchange rates. Kenya and Zambia operating results also improved which contributed to increased revenues and gross profits in the Africa region.

          In the North America region, revenues and gross profit increases were primarily due to better yields in the United States which lowered costs and the increased demand for our cut rag operations as consumers turn to lower priced U.S. products in response to tax increases on tobacco products by U.S. federal and state governments.  Our Canadian operations increased revenues and gross profits as a result of a fundamental change in the Canadian marketing system which began with this year’s crop.  

          The primary driver in increased revenues and gross profits in the Asia region was increased sales from China of by-products at higher average sales prices as well as higher prices for lamina due to cost increases and product mix. Partially offsetting these gains were less opportunistic sales from Vietnam and the Philippines.  Increased revenues and gross profits from Indonesia were offset by decreased volumes sold of India and Thailand tobacco.


Liquidity and Capital Resources


Overview

Historically we have needed capital in excess of cash flow from operations to finance accounts receivable, inventory and advances to suppliers for tobacco crops in certain foreign countries.  Purchasing, processing and selling activities of our business are seasonal and our need for capital fluctuates with corresponding peaks where outstanding indebtedness may be significantly greater or less as a result.  Our long-term borrowings consist of unsecured senior and convertible senior subordinated notes as well as a senior secured revolving credit facility. We also have short-term lines of credit available with a number of banks throughout the world to provide needed seasonal working capital to correspond with regional peaks of our business.  Over the last twelve months, as a result of Japan Tobacco Inc.’s vertical integration, the increasing oversupply in certain markets around the world and the change in customer buying patterns, we increased debt, net of cash, by $224.5 million from $848.6 million as of March 31, 2010 to $1,073.1 million as of March 31, 2011.  As a result of the July 2009 refinancing the makeup of our debt is longer term in nature with a significant portion of the maturities extending out to 2016. From time to time in the future, we may elect to redeem, repay, retire or cancel indebtedness prior to stated maturity under our senior secured credit agreement or indentures, as permitted therein.






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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)


Overview (continued)

          At March 31, 2011, we had $43.5 million in cash on our balance sheet, $148.0 million in indebtedness under our revolving credit facility with an additional $142.0 million in borrowings available under that facility, $231.4 million outstanding under foreign lines with an additional $553.2 million available under those lines and $4.4 million outstanding of other debt for a total of $738.9 million of debt availability and cash on hand around the world, excluding $4.9 million in issued but unfunded letters of credit with $9.1 million available. Another source of liquidity as of March 31, 2011 was $43.3 million funded under our $100 million accounts receivable sale program.  Additionally, customers advances were $17.6 million in 2011 compared to $102.3 million in 2010.  To the extent that these customers do not provide this advance funding, we must provide financing for their inventories.  Should customers pre-finance less in the future for committed inventories, this action could negatively affect our short-term liquidity.  We believe that the sources of capital we possess, or have access to, will be sufficient to fund our anticipated needs for fiscal year 2012.  No cash dividends were paid to stockholders during the twelve months ended March 31, 2011.  On July 28, 2010, our board of directors authorized the purchase up to $40.0 million of our common stock over the next two years and we purchased 2.4 million shares of our common stock at a weighted average price paid per share of $3.78 through March 31, 2011.  Effective March 31, 2011, we did not satisfy the fixed charge coverage ratio of 2.0 to 1.0 required under the indenture governing our senior notes to permit us to access the restricted payments basket for the purchase of common stock and other actions under that basket. From time to time we may not satisfy the required ratio.  See Note 7 “Short-term Borrowing Arrangements” and Note 17 “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.

          Seasonal liquidity beyond cash flow from operations is provided by our revolving credit facility, seasonal working capital lines throughout the world, advances from customers and sale of accounts receivable.  For the years ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, our average short-term borrowings, aggregated peak short-term borrowings outstanding and weighted-average interest rate on short-term borrowings were as follows:


(dollars in millions)

2011    

2010    

Average short-term borrowings

$  373.4   

$ 339.7   

Aggregated peak short-term borrowings outstanding

$  619.3   

$ 570.5   

Weighted-average interest rate on short-term borrowings

3.47%

7.47%


          Aggregated peak borrowings for 2011 and 2010 were during the second quarter as we reach our seasonally adjusted high for our South American crop lines as we are shipping inventory and collecting receivables.  Peak borrowings for 2011 and 2010 were repaid with cash provided by operating activities.

          As of March 31, 2011, we are in our working capital build. In South America we are in the process of purchasing and processing the most recent crop, while the peak tobacco sales season for South America is at its beginning stages. Africa is also in the middle of its buying, processing and selling season and is utilizing working capital funding as well.  North America and Europe are still selling and planning for the next crop that is now being grown.


Working Capital

Our working capital increased from $795.2 million at March 31, 2010 to $846.9 million at March 31, 2011.  Our current ratio was 2.8 to 1 at March 31, 2011 compared to 2.4 to 1 at March 31, 2010.  The increase in working capital is primarily related to decreases in advances from customers due to less customer funding of the current crop and increases in trade receivables due to the timing of sales.  Partially offsetting these increases in working capital are decreases in inventories and cash and cash equivalents.  Decreases in accounts payable were primarily offset by decreases in prepaid expense and tax asset balances.



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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)


Working Capital (continued)

          The following table is a summary of items from the Consolidated Balance Sheet and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.


 

As of March 31,                                             

 

 

Change          

 

Change         

 

(in millions except for current ratio)

2011  

$     

%   

2010  

$     

%   

2009  

Cash and cash equivalents

$  43.5   

$  (86.2)

(66.5)

$  129.7   

$  42.0 

47.9 

$  87.7   

Net trade receivables

279.9   

72.5 

35.0 

207.4   

31.7 

18.0 

175.7   

Inventories and advances to tobacco suppliers

874.9   

(20.0)

(2.2)

894.9   

82.5 

10.2 

812.4   

Total current assets

1,317.3   

(65.6)

(4.7)

1,382.9   

163.3 

13.4 

1,219.6   

Notes payable to banks

231.4   

42.4 

22.4 

189.0   

(72.5)

(27.7)

261.5   

Accounts payable

86.1   

(60.3)

(41.2)

146.4   

26.2 

21.8 

120.2   

Advances from customers

17.6   

(84.7)

(82.8)

102.3   

57.9 

130.4 

44.4   

Total current liabilities

470.4   

(117.3)

(20.0)

587.7   

(23.7)

(3.9)

611.4   

Current ratio

2.8 to 1   

 

 

2.4 to 1   

 

 

2.0 to 1   

Working capital

846.9   

51.7 

6.5 

795.2   

187.0 

30.7 

608.2   

Total long term debt

884.4   

95.5 

12.1 

788.9   

136.3 

20.9 

652.6   

Stockholders’ equity attributable to
   Alliance One International, Inc.

312.8   

(77.6)

(19.9)

390.4   

63.7 

19.5 

326.7   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net cash provided (used) by:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Operating activities

(183.0)  

(294.3)

 

111.3   

77.7 

 

33.6   

      Investing activities

(15.9)  

(6.6)

 

(9.3)  

22.9 

 

(32.2)  

      Financing activities

113.0   

172.3 

 

(59.3)  

(43.8)

 

(15.5)  


Operating Cash Flows

Net cash provided by operating activities decreased $294.3 million in 2011 compared to 2010 which increased $77.7 million compared to 2009.  The decrease in 2011 compared to 2010 is primarily due to the negative impact of JTI’s vertical integration initiatives on earnings, less customer funding for the current crop and the related increase in cash used for receivables.  Partially offsetting these decreases are reduced levels of inventories and advances to tobacco suppliers compared to the prior year.  The increase in 2010 compared to 2009 is primarily due to higher levels of pre-financing by customers.  Partially offsetting these increases are reduced earnings and the reversal of non-cash exchange gains.  


Investing Cash Flows

Net cash used by investing activities increased $6.6 million in 2011 compared to 2010 which decreased $22.9 million compared to 2009.  The increase in cash used in 2011 compared to 2010 is a result of increased capital expenditures of $53.7 million primarily related to the construction of our new processing facility in Brazil.  Partially offsetting the increase in cash used are increased proceeds from the sale of assets of $44.1 million primarily related to the assets sold to PMI in Brazil this year.  Reductions in the purchase of foreign currency derivatives and less costs incurred for internally developed software were offset by less proceeds from notes receivable.  The decrease in cash used in 2010 compared to 2009 is primarily a reduction in the purchase of foreign currency derivatives compared to 2009.  Also decreasing cash used in 2010 was less costs incurred for internally developed software as we began our global implementation of SAP in 2009.


Financing Cash Flows

Net cash provided by financing activities was $113.0 million in 2011 compared to net cash used of $59.3 million in 2010 and $15.5 million in 2009.  The increase in cash provided in 2011 compared to cash used in 2010 is primarily related to the impact of our debt refinancing on 2010 cash flows that did not recur in 2011.  Partially offsetting these increases in cash provided are the purchase of $58.6 million of our 8.5% senior notes and 10% senior notes in 2011 as well as the purchase 2.4 million shares of our common stock this year.  The increase in cash used in 2010 compared to 2009 is primarily increased repayments of our short term borrowings and increased debt issuance, debt retirement and other debt related costs primarily associated with our debt refinancing this year.  Partially offsetting these decreases are not having short term demand notes in 2010 and more net proceeds from long term borrowings also due to our debt refinancing in 2010.




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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)


         The following table summarizes our debt financing as of March 31, 2011:


 

 

March 31, 2011

 

 

 

Outstanding

Lines and

 

 

 

 

  March 31,

March 31,

Letters

Interest

 

Long Term Debt Repayment Schedule

 

       2010    

2011    

Available

Rate

 

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Later

Senior secured credit facility:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Revolver (1)

$           - 

$     148.0 

$  142.0 

3.1% 

(2)

$      - 

$ 148.0 

$      - 

$         - 

$      - 

$         - 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Senior notes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   10% senior notes due 2016 (4)

642.2 

611.8 

10.00% 

 

611.8 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   8 ½% senior notes due 2012

29.6 

6.0 

8.50% 

 

6.0 

Other

 

 

 

671.8 

617.8 

 

 

6.0 

611.8 

5 ½% convertible senior    subordinated notes due 2014

115.0 

115.0 

5.50% 

 

115.0 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other long-term debt

2.5 

4.4 

0.2 

8.00% 

(2)

0.8 

0.9 

1.3 

1.0 

0.1 

0.3 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Notes payable to banks (3)

189.0 

231.4 

553.2 

3.50% 

(2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Total debt

$   978.3 

$  1,116.6 

695.4 

 

 

$  0.8 

$ 154.9 

$  1.3 

$  116.0 

$  0.1 

$  612.1 

Short-term

$   189.0 

$     231.4 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Long-term debt current

$       0.4 

$         0.8 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Long-term debt

788.9 

884.4 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$   789.3 

$     885.2 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Letters of credit

$       5.3 

$         4.9 

9.1 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Total credit available

 

 

$  704.5 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)  As of March 31, 2011, pursuant to Section 2.1 (A) (iv) of the Credit Agreement, the full Revolving Committed Amount was available based on the calculation of the lesser of the Revolving Committed Amount and the Working Capital Amount.

 

(2)  Weighted average rate for the twelve months ended March 31, 2011.

 

(3)  Primarily foreign seasonal lines of credit.

 

(4)  Repayment of $611.8 is net of original issue discount of $23.2.  Total repayment will be $635.0.  


Senior Secured Credit Facility

On July 2, 2009, the Company replaced its previous credit agreement by entering into a Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), with a syndicate of banks that provided for a senior secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) of a three and one-quarter year $270.0 million revolver (the “Revolver”) which initially accrued interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.50%.  The interest rate for the Revolver may increase or decrease according to a consolidated interest coverage ratio pricing matrix as defined in the Credit Agreement, plus an applicable percentage.  As of April 7, 2010, the Company increased the Revolver to $290.0 million.


First Amendment.  On August 24, 2009, the Company closed the First Amendment to the Credit Agreement which included allowing the issuance of up to an additional $100.0 million of Senior Notes due 2016 within 90 days of the First Amendment Effective Date, amending the definition of Consolidated Total Senior Debt to exclude the Existing Senior Notes 2005, amending the definition of applicable percentage to clarify the effective date of the change in the applicable percentage and modifications to several schedules within the Credit Agreement.



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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)


Senior Secured Credit Facility (continued)


Second Amendment.  On June 9, 2010, the Company closed the Second Amendment to the Credit Agreement, which included adding back the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act estimate of $19.45 million to Consolidated Net Income for the period ended March 31, 2010 and increasing the Maximum Consolidated Leverage Ratio to 5.25 to 1.00 for the period ending September 30, 2010 and to 5.00 to 1.00 for the period ending March 31, 2011.  The Second Amendment also allowed a subsidiary of the Company to incur indebtedness of up to $25.0 million after ceasing to be a wholly owned subsidiary, a guarantee by the Company of that indebtedness, the issuance of up to 30% equity interests in the subsidiary to officers, employees, directors, advisory boards and/or its third parties investors and allow certain restricted payments by the subsidiary.


Third Amendment.  On June 6, 2011, the Company closed the Third Amendment to the Credit Agreement.  See Note 21 “Subsequent Event” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Financial Covenants.  Certain financial covenants and required financial ratios adjust over time in accordance with schedules in the Credit Agreement.  After giving effect to the Third Amendment to the Credit Agreement, the requirements of those covenants and financial ratios are as follows:  


·

a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio of not less than 1.90 to 1.00 (1.65 for the quarters ending June and September 30, 2011 and 1.80 for the quarter ending December 31, 2011);


·

a maximum consolidated leverage ratio in an amount not more than a ratio specified for each fiscal quarter as set forth in a schedule, which ratio is 5.85 for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, peaks to 7.50 for the quarter ending September 30, 2011 and reduces to 4.75 by the quarter ending December 31, 2012 and thereafter;


·

a maximum consolidated total senior debt to working capital amount ratio of not more than 0.80 to 1.00; and


·

maximum annual capital expenditures of $55.0 million during fiscal year ending March 31, 2012 and $40.0 million during any fiscal year thereafter, in each case with a one-year carry-forward for capital expenditures in any fiscal year below the maximum amount.


          The Company continuously monitors its compliance with the covenants.  At March 31, 2011, the Company was in compliance with the covenants (as revised by the Third Amendment for the fourth quarter).  The Company records all fees and third-party costs associated with the Credit Agreement, including amendments thereto, in accordance with accounting guidance for changes in line of credit or revolving debt arrangements.


Senior Notes

On July 2, 2009, the Company issued $570.0 million of 10% Senior Notes due 2016 (the “Senior Notes”) at a price of 95.177% of the face value. On August 26, 2009, the Company issued an additional $100.0 million tranche of 10% Senior Notes due 2016 at a price of 97.500% of the face value.  These additional notes form part of the same series as the Senior Notes issued on July 2, 2009. The Senior Notes are required to be guaranteed by any “material domestic subsidiaries” of the Company as defined in the indenture governing the Senior Notes.  The Company does not have a “material domestic subsidiary” at March 31, 2011.

           During fiscal 2011, the Company purchased $35.0 million of these notes on the open market.  All purchased securities were cancelled leaving $635.0 million of the 10% senior notes outstanding at March 31, 2011.  Associated cash premiums and other costs paid were $1.6 million.  Deferred financing costs and amortization of original issue discount of $2.0 million were accelerated.


Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes

On July 2, 2009, the Company issued $100.0 million of 5 ½% Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the “Convertible Notes”).  The initial purchasers of the Convertible Notes were granted an option to purchase up to an additional $15.0 million of Convertible Notes solely to cover over-allotments which was exercised on July 15, 2009.  Holders may surrender their Convertible Notes, in integral multiples of $1,000 principal amount, for conversion into shares of the Company’s common stock at the then-applicable conversion rate until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date.  The initial conversion rate for the Convertible Notes is 198.8862 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes.  The conversion rate is subject to adjustments based on certain events as described in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes. In addition, holders of these notes have certain rights and entitlements upon the occurrence of certain fundamental changes (as defined in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes).



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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)


Other Senior Notes and Senior Subordinated Notes

The Company applied a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the Senior Notes and Convertible Notes to fund the purchase of $120.4 million of its previously existing 8 ½% Senior Notes due 2012 and the purchase, defeasance and redemption of all of its previously existing 11% Senior Notes due 2012, 12 ¾% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2012, 9 % Senior Notes due 2011, 7 ¾% Senior Notes due 2013 and 8% Senior Notes due 2012, Series B pursuant to an early settlement of a cash tender offer.  

          As a result of the repurchase, defeasance and redemption of these existing notes, the Company accelerated approximately $5.6 million of deferred financing costs and $5.6 million of amortization of original issue discount during the year ended March 31, 2010.

         During fiscal 2011, the Company purchased $23.6 million of the remaining 8 ½% Senior Notes due 2012 on the open market.  All purchased securities were cancelled leaving $6.0 million of the 8 ½% senior notes outstanding at March 31, 2011.  Associated cash premiums and other costs paid were $.7 million.  Deferred financing costs and amortization of original issue discount of $.3 million were accelerated.


Convertible Note Hedge and Warrant Transactions

In connection with the offering of the Convertible Notes, the Company entered into privately negotiated convertible note hedge transactions with three counterparties (“hedge counterparties”) to cover, subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments, the number of shares of the Company’s common stock that initially underlie the Convertible Notes and expire on the last day that any Convertible Notes remain outstanding.  The Company also entered separately into privately negotiated warrant transactions relating to the same number of shares of the Company’s common stock with the hedge counterparties.  The convertible note hedge transactions are expected to reduce the potential dilution with respect to the common stock of the Company upon conversion of the Convertible Notes in the event that the value per share of common stock, as measured under the convertible note hedge transactions, during the applicable valuation period, is greater than the strike price of the convertible note hedge transactions, which corresponds to the $5.0280 per share initial conversion price of the Convertible Notes and is similarly subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments.  If, however, the price per share of the Company’s common stock, as measured under the warrants, exceeds the strike price of the warrant transactions during the applicable valuation period, there would be dilution from the issuance of common stock pursuant to the warrants.  The warrants have a strike price of $7.3325 per share, which is subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments and the maximum number of shares that could be issued under the warrant transactions is 45,743,836.  The warrants expire in daily installments commencing on October 15, 2014 and ending on April 8, 2015.  Both the convertible note hedge transactions and the warrant transactions require physical net-share settlement and are accounted for as equity instruments.


Foreign Seasonal Lines of Credit

We have typically financed our non-U.S. operations with uncommitted unsecured short-term seasonal lines of credit at the local level.  These operating lines are seasonal in nature, normally extending for a term of 180 to 270 days corresponding to the tobacco crop cycle in that location.  These facilities are typically uncommitted in that the lenders have the right to cease making loans and demand repayment of loans at any time.  These loans are typically renewed at the outset of each tobacco season.  As of March 31, 2011, we had approximately $231.4 million drawn and outstanding on foreign seasonal lines with maximum capacity totaling $798.6 million subject to limitations as provided for in the Credit Agreement.  Additionally against these lines there was $14.0 million available in unused letter of credit capacity with $4.9 million issued but unfunded.


Dividends

Our senior credit agreement restricts our ability to pay dividends or make other distributions or restricted payments based upon our consolidated net income and consolidated net loss since April 1, 2008 and the amount of specified restricted investments we have made since that date.  In addition, we must be in compliance with all terms of the senior credit agreement, including the financial covenants, in order to pay dividends, repurchase common stock or make other distributions or restricted payments.  In addition, the indenture governing our senior notes contains similar restrictions and also prohibits the payment of dividends and other distributions if we fail to satisfy a ratio of consolidated EBITDA to fixed charges of at least 2.0 to 1.0.  At March 31, 2011, we did not satisfy this fixed charge coverage ratio.  We may from time to time not satisfy this ratio.



- 29 -






ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)


Aggregate Contractual Obligations and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

We have summarized in the table below our contractual cash obligations and other commercial commitments as of March 31, 2011.


 

 

Payments / Expirations by Period

(in millions)

 

Total

2012

Years
2013-2014

Years
2015-2016

After
2016

Long-Term Debt Obligations*

 

$ 1,273.8  

$  79.8  

$  307.0  

$  254.7  

$  632.3  

Capital Lease Obligations*

 

0.2  

0.1  

0.1  

-  

-  

Operating Lease Obligations

 

36.2  

9.8  

10.1  

7.0  

9.3  

Capital Expenditure Commitments

 

5.6  

5.6  

-  

-  

-  

Tobacco Purchase Obligations

 

661.8  

603.1  

58.7  

-  

-  

Beneficial Interest in Receivables Sold

 

15.8  

15.8  

-  

-  

-  

Amounts Guaranteed for Tobacco Suppliers

 

174.1  

107.0  

58.6  

8.5  

-  

Total Contractual Obligations and Other
     Commercial Commitments

 

$ 2,167.5  

$ 821.2  

$  434.5  

$  270.2  

$  641.6  

*

Long-Term Debt Obligations and Capital Lease Obligations include projected interest for both fixed and variable rate debt.  We assume that there will be no drawings on the senior secured revolving credit facility in these calculations.  The variable rate used in the projections is the rate that was being charged on our variable rate debt as of March 31, 2011.  These calculations also assume that there is no refinancing of debt during any period.  These calculations are on Long-Term Debt Obligations and Capital Lease Obligations only.  


          We do not have any other off-balance sheet arrangements that are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, liquidity, capital expenditures or capital resources, as defined under the rules of SEC Release No. FRR-67, Disclosure in Management’s Discussion and Analysis about Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements and Aggregate Contractual Obligations.


Lease Obligations

We have both capital and operating leases.  In accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, operating leases are not reflected in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheet.  The operating leases are for land, buildings, automobiles and other equipment; the capital leases are primarily for production machinery and equipment.  The capitalized lease obligations are payable through 2015.  Operating assets that are of long-term and continuing benefit are generally purchased.


Tobacco Purchase Obligations

Tobacco purchase obligations result from contracts with suppliers, primarily in the United States, Brazil and Turkey, to buy either specified quantities of tobacco or the supplier’s total tobacco production.  Amounts shown as tobacco purchase obligations are estimates based on projected purchase prices of the future crop tobacco.  Payment of these obligations is net of our advances to these suppliers. Our tobacco purchase obligations do not exceed our projected requirements over the related terms and are in the normal course of business.


Beneficial Interest in Receivables Sold

We sell accounts receivable in a revolving trade accounts receivable securitization.  Under the agreement, we receive 90% of the face value of the receivable sold, less contractual dilutions which limit the amount that may be outstanding from any one particular customer and insurance reserves that also have the effect of limiting the risk attributable to any one customer.  Our 10% beneficial interest is subordinate to the purchaser of the receivables.  See Note 17 “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Amounts Guaranteed for Tobacco Suppliers

In Brazil, Argentina and Malawi, we provide guarantees to ensure financing is available to our tobacco suppliers.  In the event these suppliers should default, we would be responsible for repayment of the funds provided to these suppliers.  See Note 1 “Significant Accounting Policies – Advances to Tobacco Suppliers” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Planned Capital Expenditures

We have projected a total of $34.7 million in capital investments for our 2012 fiscal year of which $5.6 million is under contract at March 31, 2011.  We forecast our capital expenditure needs for routine replacement of equipment as well as investment in assets that will add value to the customer or increase efficiency.  



- 30 -






ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Liquidity and Capital Resources (continued)


Aggregate Contractual Obligations and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements (continued)


Tax and Repatriation Matters

We are subject to income tax laws in each of the countries in which we do business through wholly owned subsidiaries and through affiliates.  We make a comprehensive review of the income tax requirements of each of our operations, file appropriate returns and make appropriate income tax planning analyses directed toward the minimization of our income tax obligations in these countries.  Appropriate income tax provisions are determined on an individual subsidiary level and at the corporate level on both an interim and annual basis.  These processes are followed using an appropriate combination of internal staff at both the subsidiary and corporate levels as well as independent outside advisors in review of the various tax laws and in compliance reporting for the various operations.

          We consider unremitted earnings of certain subsidiaries operating outside the United States to be invested indefinitely.  No U.S. income taxes or foreign withholding taxes are provided on such permanently reinvested earnings, in accordance with ASC 740.  We regularly review the status of the accumulated earnings of each of our foreign subsidiaries and reassess this determination as part of our overall financing plans.  Following this assessment, we provide deferred income taxes, net of any foreign tax credits, on any earnings that are determined to no longer be indefinitely invested.   We did not record any deferred income taxes for 2011.  See Note 12 “Income Taxes” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Critical Accounting Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States (GAAP) requires the use of estimates and assumptions that have an impact on the assets, liabilities, revenue and expense amounts reported.  These estimates can also affect supplemental disclosures including information about contingencies, risk and financial condition.

          Critical accounting estimates are defined as those that are reflective of significant judgments and uncertainties and potentially yield materially different results under different assumptions or conditions.  Given current facts and circumstances, we believe that our estimates and assumptions are reasonable, adhere to GAAP and are consistently applied.  Our selection and disclosure of our critical accounting policies and estimates has been reviewed with our Audit Committee.  Following is a review of the more significant assumptions and estimates and the accounting policies and methods used in the preparation of our consolidated financial statements.  For all of these estimates, we caution that future events rarely develop exactly as forecast, and the best estimates routinely require adjustment.  See Note 1 “Significant Accounting Policies” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” which discusses the significant accounting policies that we have adopted.


Inventories

Costs included in inventory include processed tobacco inventory, unprocessed tobacco inventory and other inventory costs.

          Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market (“LCM”), which requires us to make significant estimates in assessing our inventory balances for potential LCM adjustments. We evaluate our inventories for LCM adjustments by country and type of inventory.  Therefore, processed tobacco and unprocessed tobacco are evaluated separately for LCM purposes.

          We compare the cost of our processed tobacco to market values based on recent sales of similar grades when evaluating those balances for LCM adjustments. We also consider whether our processed tobacco is committed to a customer, whereby the expected sales price would be utilized in determining the market value for committed tobacco.

          We review data on market conditions in performing our LCM evaluation for our unprocessed tobacco. Further, we identify the tobacco cost plus estimated costs to complete and compare those costs to the current market prices based on purchase commitments in determining whether an LCM adjustment is needed on our unprocessed tobacco.

          See Note 1 “Significant Accounting Policies - Inventories” and Note 2 “Inventories” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.

 

Income Taxes

Our annual tax rate is based on our income, statutory tax rates, exchange rates and tax planning opportunities available to us in the various jurisdictions in which we operate. Tax laws are complex and subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and respective governmental taxing authorities. Significant judgment is required in determining our tax expense and in evaluating our tax positions including evaluating uncertainties under ASC 740.  We review our tax positions quarterly and adjust the balances as new information becomes available.



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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Critical Accounting Estimates (continued)


Income Taxes (continued)

          Deferred income tax assets represent amounts available to reduce income taxes payable on taxable income in future years. Such assets arise because of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as from net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. We evaluate the recoverability of these future tax deductions by assessing the adequacy of future expected taxable income from all sources, including reversal of taxable temporary differences, forecasted operating earnings and available tax planning strategies. These sources of income inherently rely heavily on estimates.  To provide insight, we use our historical experience and our short and long-range business forecasts.  We believe it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred income tax assets may expire unused and have established a valuation allowance against them. Although realization is not assured for the remaining deferred income tax assets, we believe it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will be fully recoverable within the applicable statutory expiration periods. However, deferred tax assets could be reduced in the near term if our estimates of taxable income are significantly reduced.  See Note 12 “Income Taxes” and Note 16 “Contingencies and Other Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Advances to Tobacco Suppliers

We evaluate our advances to tobacco suppliers, which represent prepaid inventory, for recoverability by crop and country. Our recoverability assessment for our advances to tobacco suppliers and our LCM evaluation for our inventories achieve a similar objective. We reclass the advances at the time suppliers deliver tobacco. The purchase price for the tobacco delivered by the suppliers is based on market prices. Two primary factors determine the market value of the tobacco suppliers deliver to us: the quantity of tobacco delivered and the quality of the tobacco delivered. Therefore, and at the time of delivery, we ensure our advances to tobacco suppliers are appropriately stated at the lower of cost or their recoverable amounts.

          Upon delivery of tobacco, part of the purchase price to the supplier is paid in cash and part through a reduction of the advance balance.  If a sufficient value of tobacco is not delivered to allow the reduction of the entire advance balance, then we first determine how much of the deficiency for the current crop is recoverable through future crops. This determination is made by analyzing the suppliers’ ability-to-deliver a sufficient supply of tobacco. This analysis includes historical quantity and quality of production with monitoring of crop information provided by our field service technicians related to flood, drought and disease. The remaining recoverable advance balance would then be classified as noncurrent.  Any increase in the estimate of unrecoverable advances associated with the noncurrent portion is charged to cost of goods and services sold in the income statement when determined.

          Amounts not expected to be recovered through current or future crops are then evaluated to determine whether the yield is considered to be normal or abnormal.  If the yield adjustment is normal, then we capitalize the applicable variance in the current crop of inventory. If the yield adjustment is considered abnormal, then we immediately charge the applicable variance to cost of goods and services sold in the income statement. A normal yield adjustment is based on the range of unrecoverability for the previous three years by country.   Our normal yield in the South America region is 5% to 7%.

          We account for our advances to tobacco suppliers using a cost accumulation model, which results in reporting our advances at the lower of cost or recoverable amounts exclusive of the mark-up and interest.  The mark-up and interest on our advances are recognized upon delivery of tobacco as a decrease in our cost of the current crop.

          The following table illustrates the amounts of favorable and unfavorable variances on current crop advances to tobacco suppliers (prepaid inventory) that will be capitalized into inventory when the crop has been purchased as of March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.   The current crop is primarily sold in the next fiscal year when the net favorable / (unfavorable) variance is recognized through cost of sales.  See Note 1 “Significant Accounting Policies – Advances to Tobacco Suppliers” for further information on the various components noted below.  Variances on advances serve to state the tobacco inventory at cost by accumulating actual total cash expended and allocating it to the tobacco received during the crop cycle.


(in millions)

2011

2010

2009

Favorable variances (including mark-up)

$ 25.0    

$ 50.6      

$ 49.2      

Unfavorable variances (including unrecoverable advances)

(15.2)   

(25.1)     

(23.1)     

Net favorable / (unfavorable) variance in crop cost in inventory

$   9.8    

$ 25.5      

$ 26.1      




- 32 -






ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Critical Accounting Estimates (continued)


Advances to Tobacco Suppliers (continued)


South America Region

The price, and the resulting mark-up, of the inputs we advance is determined at the beginning of each season and depends on various market considerations. We purchase and advance the inputs in the currency of the local market. The amount of inputs advanced for the 2010 crop were less than the inputs advanced for the 2009 crop. Additionally, the local currency depreciated against the U.S. dollar. However, these reductions were offset by an increase in the input prices we are advancing to our suppliers and lower input acquisition costs. These factors resulted in a relatively consistent favorable year-over-year variance from 2009 to 2010. We believe the favorable variances relating to the 2009 and 2010 crops are representative of average favorable variance levels.  In 2011, we assigned approximately 20% of our tobacco suppliers to the Brazilian affiliate of Philip Morris International, Inc. (“PMI”).  Therefore, the 2011 variances are not comparable with 2010 or 2009.  The amount of inputs advanced for the 2011 crop were less than the inputs advanced for the 2010 crop. While the local currency appreciated against the U.S. dollar, higher input acquisition costs resulted in a lower favorable variance percentage than 2010, but a comparable percentage to 2009. We believe the favorable variances relating to the 2011 crop are representative of average favorable variance percentages.

          We base our estimate of the unrecoverable advances on numerous factors, including, but not limited to our expectations of the quantity and quality of tobacco our suppliers will deliver to us.  The estimated unfavorable variances relating to the 2009 and 2010 crops are comparable with the 2010 crop impacted by heavier than average rains in certain areas of South America but within average unfavorable variance levels.  Again, the 2011 variances are not comparable with 2010 or 2009 due to the transaction with PMI.  The 2011 unfavorable variance percentage also improved over 2010 and 2009 primarily as a result of a tighter credit controls in evaluating tobacco suppliers.


Other Regions

Within the Other Regions, Africa and Guatemala are the primary areas where we advance some inputs to suppliers for the coming crop.  Advances to tobacco suppliers in most other areas are primarily cash advances to third party commercial suppliers.  The Company did not incur substantial net variances within the Other Regions operating segments for 2011, 2010 and 2009 that were absorbed into inventory.


Asset Impairment

Long-lived assets, including recoverable intrastate trade tax credits, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. Determining whether an impairment has occurred typically requires various estimates and assumptions, including determining which undiscounted cash flows are directly related to the potentially impaired asset, the useful life over which cash flows will occur, their amount, and the asset’s residual value, if any. In turn, measurement of an impairment loss requires a determination of fair value, which is based on the best information available. We derive the required undiscounted cash flow estimates from our historical experience and our internal business plans. To determine fair value, we use our internal cash flow estimates discounted at an appropriate interest rate, quoted market prices when available and independent appraisals, as appropriate. Accordingly, the fair value of an asset could be different using different estimates and assumptions in these valuation techniques which would increase or decrease the impairment charge.


Other Intangible Assets

We have no other intangible assets with indefinite useful lives. We test other identified intangible assets with defined useful lives and subject to amortization whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the related carrying amounts may not be recoverable. We perform this test by initially comparing the carrying amount to the sum of undiscounted cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an intangible asset exceeds its estimated future undiscounted cash flows, then an impairment loss would be indicated.  The amount of the impairment loss to be recorded would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the intangible asset over its discounted future cash flows.  We use judgment in assessing whether the carrying amount of our intangible assets is not expected to be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives.  See Note 5 “Goodwill and Other Intangibles” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.





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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Critical Accounting Estimates (continued)


Pensions and Postretirement Health Care and Life Insurance Benefits

The valuation of our pension and other postretirement health care and life insurance plans requires the use of assumptions and estimates that are used to develop actuarial valuations of expenses, assets and liabilities.  These assumptions include discount rates, investment returns, projected salary increases and benefits and mortality rates.  The significant assumptions used in the calculation of pension and postretirement obligations are:


             

Discount rate:  The discount rate is based on investment yields available at the measurement date on high-quality fixed income obligations, such as those included in the Moody’s Aa bond index.

 

 

 

 

             

Salary increase assumption:  The salary increase assumption reflects our expectations with respect to long-term salary increases of our workforce.  Historical pay increases, expectations for the future, and anticipated inflation and promotion rates are considered in developing this assumption.

 

 

 

 

             

Cash Balance Crediting Rate:  Interest is credited on cash balance accounts based on the yield on one-year Treasury Constant Maturities plus 1%.  The assumed crediting rate thus considers the discount rate, current treasury rates, current inflation rates, and expectations for the future.

 

 

 

 

             

Mortality Rates:  Mortality rates are based on gender-distinct group annuity mortality (GAM) tables.

 

 

 

 

             

Expected return on plan assets:  The expected return reflects asset allocations, investment strategy and our historical actual returns.

 

 

 

 

             

Termination and Retirement Rates:  Termination and retirement rates are based on standard tables reflecting past experience and anticipated future experience under the plan.  No early retirement rates are used since benefits provided are actuarially equivalent and there are not early retirement subsidies in the plan.

 


          Management periodically reviews actual demographic experience as it compares to the actuarial assumptions.  Changes in assumptions are made if there are significant deviations or if future expectations change significantly.  Based upon anticipated changes in assumptions, pension and postretirement expense is expected to decrease by $2.7 million in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2012 as compared to March 31, 2011.  We continually evaluate ways to better manage benefits and control costs.  The cash contribution to our employee benefit plans in 2011 was $12.5 million and is expected to be $13.3 million in 2012.

          The effect of actual results differing from our assumptions are accumulated and amortized over future periods and, therefore, generally affect our recognized expense in such future periods.  Changes in other assumptions and future investment returns could potentially have a material impact on our pension and postretirement expenses and related funding requirements.

          The effect of a change in certain assumptions is shown below:


 

 

Estimated Change
in Projected
Benefit Obligation
Increase (Decrease)
(in 000’s)

 

Estimated Change in
Annual Expense
Increase (Decrease)
(in 000’s)

Change in Assumption (Pension and Postretirement Plans)

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in discount rate

 

$ (17,688)       

 

$  (475)         

     1% decrease in discount rate

 

$   19,851        

 

$   637          

 

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in salary increase assumption

 

$     1,477        

 

$   434          

     1% decrease in salary increase assumption

 

$   (1,347)       

 

$  (386)         

 

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in cash balance crediting rate

 

$     1,533        

 

$   261          

     1% decrease in cash balance crediting rate

 

$   (1,369)       

 

$  (159)         

 

 

 

 

 

     1% increase in rate of return on assets

 

$            -        

 

$  (774)         

     1% decrease in rate of return on assets

 

$            -        

 

$   774          


          Changes in assumptions for other post retirement benefits are no longer applicable as the benefit is capped and no longer subject to inflation.  See Note 13 “Employee Benefits” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.




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ITEM 7.    MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

                  CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS (continued)


Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted


In October 2009, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on accounting for multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. The objective of this accounting guidance is to address the accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements to enable vendors to account for products or services (deliverables) separately rather than as a combined unit. This accounting guidance will be effective for the Company on April 1, 2011. The Company does not expect the impact of this new accounting guidance to have a material impact on its financial condition or results of operations.

         In January 2010, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures. This guidance requires reporting entities to disclose separately the amounts of significant transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements and describe the reasons for the transfers. It will also require reporting entities to present separately information about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in their Level 3 fair value reconciliations. The new disclosures and clarifications of existing disclosures (the Level 1 and Level 2 changes) were effective for the Company on January 1, 2010 with no material impact to the Company.  The disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in the roll forward of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements will be effective for the Company on April 1, 2011. The Company does not expect these new disclosure requirements to have a material impact on its financial condition or results of operations.


ITEM 7A.    QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT

                     MARKET RISK


Derivatives policies: Hedging interest rate exposure using swaps and hedging foreign exchange exposure using forward contracts are specifically contemplated to manage risk in keeping with management’s policies. We may use derivative instruments, such as swaps or forwards, which are based directly or indirectly upon interest rates and currencies to manage and reduce the risks inherent in interest rate and currency fluctuations.  

          We do not utilize derivatives for speculative purposes, and we do not enter into market risk sensitive instruments for trading purposes. Derivatives are transaction specific so that a specific debt instrument, contract, or invoice determines the amount, maturity, and other specifics of the hedge.


Foreign exchange rates: Our business is generally conducted in U.S. dollars, as is the business of the tobacco industry as a whole.  However, local country operating costs, including the purchasing and processing costs for tobaccos, are subject to the effects of exchange fluctuations of the local currency against the U.S. dollar.  We attempt to minimize such currency risks by matching the timing of our working capital borrowing needs against the tobacco purchasing and processing funds requirements in the currency of the country where the tobacco is grown.  Also, in some cases, our sales pricing arrangements with our customers allow adjustments for the effect of currency exchange fluctuations on local purchasing and processing costs.  Fluctuations in the value of foreign currencies can significantly affect our operating results.  In our cost of goods and services sold, we have recognized exchange gains (losses) of $(0.01) million, $(8.1) million and $9.9 million for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  We recognized exchange gains (losses) of $8.4 million, $20.3 million and $(9.9) million related to tax balances in our tax expense for the fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  In addition, foreign currency fluctuations in the Euro and (U.K.) Sterling can significantly impact the currency translation adjustment component of accumulated other comprehensive income.  We recognized gains (losses) of $2.3 million, $(1.8) million and $7.0 million in 2011, 2010, and 2009, respectively, as a result of fluctuations in these currencies.

          Our consolidated selling, administrative and general (SG&A) expenses denominated in foreign currencies are subject to translation risks from currency exchange fluctuations.  These foreign denominated expenses accounted for approximately 26.9% or $42.3 million of our total SG&A expenses for the twelve months ended March 31, 2011.  A 10% change in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to those currencies would have caused the reported value of those expenses to increase or decrease by approximately $4.2 million.


Interest rates: We manage our exposure to interest rate risk through the proportion of fixed rate and variable rate debt in our total debt portfolio.  A 1% change in variable interest rates would increase or decrease our reported interest cost by approximately $4.5 million.  A substantial portion of our borrowings are denominated in U.S. dollars and bear interest at commonly quoted rates.

 



- 35 -







ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA

 

  STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS AND COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
  
Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Years Ended March 31,

(in thousands, except per share data)

2011

2010

2009

Sales and other operating revenues

$  2,094,062   

$ 2,308,299   

$ 2,258,219   

Cost of goods and services sold

1,817,243   

1,911,849   

1,897,380   

Gross profit

276,819   

396,450   

360,839   

Selling, administrative and general expenses

157,920   

155,376   

156,000   

Other income (expense)

37,442   

(17,260)   

214   

Restructuring charges

23,467   

-   

591   

 

Operating income

132,874   

223,814   

204,462   

Debt retirement expense

4,584   

40,353   

954   

Interest expense

102,696   

113,819   

97,984   

Interest income

7,255   

4,550   

3,808   

Income before income taxes and other items

32,849   

74,192   

109,332   

Income tax expense (benefit)

107,460   

(3,791)  

(22,020)  

Equity in net income of investee companies

2,463   

1,963   

1,478   

Income (loss) from continuing operations

(72,148)  

79,946   

132,830   

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

-   

-   

407   

Net income (loss)

(72,148)  

79,946   

133,237   

 

Less:  Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

(597)  

779   

679   

Net income (loss) attributable to Alliance One International, Inc.

$     (71,551)  

$      79,167   

$    132,558   

Comprehensive income:

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss)

$     (72,148)  

$      79,946   

$    133,237   

 

Currency translation adjustment

2,297   

(1,837)  

(7,207)  

 

Pension adjustment, net of tax expense (benefit) of $26 in 2011,
     $(5,107) in 2010 and $(3,378) in 2009

(2,789)  

(6,383)  

(13,165)  

Total comprehensive income (loss)

(72,640)  

71,726   

112,865   

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

(615)  

763   

496   

Total comprehensive income (loss) attributable to
           Alliance One International, Inc.

$     (72,025)  

$      70,963   

$    112,369   

 

 

 

 

Amounts attributable to Alliance One International, Inc.

 

 

 

     Income (loss) from continuing operations

$     (71,551)  

$      79,167   

$    132,151   

     Income from discontinued operations

-   

-   

407   

     Net income (loss) attributable to Alliance One International, Inc.

$     (71,551)  

$      79,167   

$    132,558   

 

 

 

 

Basic Earnings (Loss) Per Share

 

 

 

     Income (loss) from continuing operations

$         (0.81)  

$          0.89   

$          1.50   

     Income from discontinued operations

-   

-   

-   

     Net income (loss)

$         (0.81)  

$          0.89   

$          1.50   

 

 

 

 

Diluted Earnings (Loss) Per Share

 

 

 

     Income (loss) from continuing operations

$         (0.81)  

$          0.78   

$          1.49   

     Income from discontinued operations

-   

-   

-   

     Net income (loss)

$         (0.81)  

$          0.78   

$          1.49   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  See notes to consolidated financial statements.




- 36 -







ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

 

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

(in thousands)

2011    

 

2010    

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

Current assets

 

 

 

 

   Cash and cash equivalents

$       43,506 

 

$    129,738 

 

   Trade and other receivables, net

279,904 

 

207,387 

 

   Accounts receivable, related parties

61,981 

 

30,061 

 

   Inventories

800,365 

 

824,147 

 

   Advances to tobacco suppliers

74,556 

 

70,749 

 

   Recoverable income taxes

7,191 

 

11,447 

 

   Current deferred taxes

3,955 

 

37,209 

 

   Prepaid expenses

42,319 

 

67,288 

 

   Assets held for sale

413 

 

819 

 

   Current derivative asset

2,543 

 

2,528 

 

   Other current assets

542 

 

1,579 

 

         Total current assets

1,317,275 

 

1,382,952 

 

Other assets

 

 

 

 

   Investments in unconsolidated affiliates

25,665 

 

23,202 

 

   Goodwill and other intangible assets

41,205 

 

44,991 

 

   Deferred income taxes

82,707 

 

148,971 

 

   Other deferred charges

21,019 

 

27,789 

 

   Other noncurrent assets

83,371 

 

90,070 

 

 

253,967 

 

335,023 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment, net

237,088 

 

193,224 

 

 

$  1,808,330 

 

$ 1,911,199 

 

 

 

 

 

 

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

   Notes payable to banks

$     231,407 

 

$    188,981 

 

   Accounts payable

86,103 

 

146,395 

 

   Due to related parties

38,937 

 

20,275 

 

   Advances from customers

17,576 

 

102,286 

 

   Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

78,459 

 

113,048 

 

   Income taxes

17,149 

 

16,281 

 

   Long-term debt current

784 

 

457 

 

         Total current liabilities

470,415 

 

587,723 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

884,371 

 

788,880 

 

Deferred income taxes

3,816 

 

4,399 

 

Liability for unrecognized tax benefits

14,733 

 

20,168 

 

Pension, postretirement and other long-term liabilities

118,983 

 

115,107 

 

 

1,021,903 

 

928,554 

 

 

 

 

Commitments and contingencies

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity

 

 

 

 

   Common stock—no par value:

 

 

 

 

      250,000 authorized shares, 94,938 issued and outstanding
         (96,966 at March 31, 2010)

455,409 

 

460,971 

 

   Retained deficit

(120,793)

 

(49,242)

 

   Accumulated other comprehensive loss

(21,803)

 

(21,329)

 

         Total stockholders’ equity of Alliance One International, Inc.

312,813 

 

390,400 

 

   Noncontrolling interests

3,199 

 

4,522 

 

         Total equity

316,012 

 

394,922 

 

 

$  1,808,330 

 

$ 1,911,199 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.





- 37 -









ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

 

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Attributable to Alliance One International, Inc.

 

 

 

Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Income

 

 

(in thousands)

Common
Stock  

Retained
Deficit

Currency
Translation
Adjustment

Pensions,
Net of Tax

Noncontrolling
Interest

Total
Stockholders’
Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2008

$ 462,798 

$ (258,395)

$   5,154   

$     1,910   

$  3,623   

$ 215,090    

Net income

132,558 

-   

-   

679   

133,237    

Restricted stock surrendered

(284)

-   

-   

-   

(284)   

Employee stock option related

40 

-   

-   

-   

40    

Stock-based compensation

5,641 

-   

-   

-   

5,641    

Noncontrolling interest dividend
   paid and other adjustments

-   

-   

(157)  

(157)   

Conversion of foreign currency
   financial statements

(7,024)  

-   

(26)  

(7,050)   

Adjustment in pensions

-   

(13,165)  

-   

(13,165)   

Adoption of ASC 715-60

(2,572)

-   

-   

-   

(2,572)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2009

$ 468,195 

$ (128,409)

$  (1,870)  

$ (11,255)  

$  4,119   

$ 330,780    

Net income

79,167 

-   

-   

779   

79,946    

Stock warrants issued

16,821 

-   

-   

-   

16,821    

Call option related to convertible
   debentures, net of tax of $14,978

(24,440)

-   

-   

-   

(24,440)   

Restricted stock surrendered

(249)

-   

-   

-   

(249)   

Exercise of employee stock options

75 

-   

-   

-   

75    

Stock-based compensation

569 

-   

-   

-   

569    

Noncontrolling interest dividend paid

-   

-   

(360)  

(360)   

Conversion of foreign currency
   financial statements

(1,821)  

-   

(16)  

(1,837)   

Adjustment in pensions

-   

(6,383)  

-   

(6,383)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2010

$ 460,971 

$  (49,242)

$  (3,691)  

$ (17,638)  

$  4,522   

$ 394,922    

Net (loss)

(71,551)

-   

-   

(597)  

(72,148)   

Restricted stock surrendered

(582)

-   

-   

-   

(582)   

Exercise of employee stock options

130 

-   

-   

-   

130    

Stock-based compensation

3,888 

-   

-   

-   

3,888    

Shares purchased

(9,042)

-   

-   

-   

(9,042)   

Purchase of additional investment

   in subsidiary

44 

-   

-   

(424)  

(380)   

Noncontrolling interest dividend paid

-   

-   

(284)  

(284)   

Conversion of foreign currency

   financial statements

2,315   

-   

(18)  

2,297    

Adjustment in pensions

-   

(2,789)  

-   

(2,789)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Balance, March 31, 2011

$ 455,409 

$  (120,793)

$  (1,376)  

$ (20,427)  

$  3,199   

$ 316,012    

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.




- 38 -







ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

 

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Years Ended March 31,

 

(in thousands)

2011

2010

2009

 

Operating activities

 

 

 

 

   Net Income (Loss)

$     (72,148)   

$     79,946    

$  133,237    

 

   Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided

 

 

 

 

         by operating activities of continuing operations:

 

 

 

 

      Net income from discontinued operations, net of tax

-    

-    

(407)   

 

      Depreciation and amortization

28,216    

29,113    

29,277    

 

      Debt amortization/interest

12,959    

13,104    

4,979    

 

      Debt retirement cost

4,584    

40,353    

954    

 

      Restructuring charges (recovery)

10,323    

-    

(87)   

 

      (Gain) loss on foreign currency transactions

(8,387)   

(12,288)   

21    

 

      Gain on disposition of fixed assets

(4,355)   

(5,981)   

(3,706)   

 

      Gain on other sales of assets

(37,765)   

-    

-    

 

      Bad debt expense

3,002    

81    

-    

 

      Stock based compensation

4,609    

448    

5,632    

 

      Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net:

 

 

 

 

          Trade and other receivables

(100,711)   

(28,974)   

(38,575)   

 

          Inventories and advances to suppliers

60,123    

(61,324)   

10,383    

 

          Prepaid expenses

321    

(3,352)   

(693)   

 

          Deferred items

99,646    

(14,947)   

(76,019)   

 

          Recoverable income taxes

(535)   

(6,711)   

(3,069)   

 

          Payables and accrued expenses

(95,239)   

30,828    

(250)   

 

          Advances from customers

(84,832)   

57,844    

(47,511)   

 

          Current derivative asset

(16)   

(1,699)   

(10,839)   

 

          Current derivative liability

-    

641    

25,670    

 

          Income taxes

(1,416)   

(7,773)   

7,012    

 

          Other operating assets and liabilities

(1,620)   

1,142    

(575)   

 

      Other, net

224    

868    

(2,366)   

 

         Net cash provided (used) by operating activities
            of continuing operations

(183,017)   

111,319    

33,068    

 

         Net cash provided by operating activities
            of discontinued operations

-    

-    

562    

 

         Net cash provided (used) by operating activities

(183,017)   

111,319    

33,630    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investing activities

 

 

 

 

   Purchases of property, plant and equipment

(69,525)   

(15,785)   

(15,942)   

 

   Intangibles, including internally developed software costs

(648)   

(6,646)   

(11,051)   

 

   Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

6,649    

8,575    

8,224    

 

   Proceeds on other sales of assets

46,074    

-    

-    

 

   Foreign currency derivatives

-    

(5,026)   

(14,397)   

 

   Return of capital on investments in unconsolidated affiliates

-    

-    

5,756    

 

   Proceeds from notes receivable

1,331    

11,437    

5,977    

 

   Investment in notes receivable

(188)   

(1,839)   

(12,609)   

 

   Surrender of life insurance policies

219    

318    

1,674    

 

   Other, net

187    

(365)   

154    

 

      Net cash used by investing activities

(15,901)   

(9,331)   

(32,214)   




- 39 -







ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

 

STATEMENTS OF CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOWS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

 

 

 

Years Ended March 31,

 

(in thousands)

2011

2010

2009

 

Financing activities

 

 

 

 

   Net proceeds (repayments) of short-term borrowings

$  37,214    

$   (72,512)   

$  (36,833)   

 

   Proceeds from short-term demand notes

-    

-    

9,014    

 

   Repayment of short-term demand notes

-    

-    

(64,079)   

 

   Proceeds from long-term borrowings

347,300    

1,040,509    

171,719    

 

   Repayment of long-term borrowings

(256,093)   

(944,709)   

(89,379)   

 

   Debt issuance cost

(3,722)   

(36,273)   

(6,184)   

 

   Debt retirement cost

(2,262)   

(23,459)   

(73)   

 

   Repurchase of common stock

(9,042)   

-    

-    

 

   Proceeds from issuance of warrants

-    

16,821    

-    

 

   Purchase of call options

-    

(39,418)   

-    

 

   Other, net

(445)   

(285)   

350    

 

      Net cash provided (used) by financing activities

112,950    

(59,326)   

(15,465)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

(264)   

(589)   

(10,500)   

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

(86,232)   

42,073    

(24,549)   

 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

129,738    

87,665    

112,214    

 

         Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

$  43,506    

$   129,738    

$   87,665    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other information:

 

 

 

 

   Cash paid during the year:

 

 

 

 

      Interest

$  91,108    

$   118,638    

$   90,913    

 

      Income taxes

12,921    

42,193    

7,470    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See notes to consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

 

 

 




- 40 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies


Description of Business

The Company is principally engaged in purchasing, processing, storing, and selling leaf tobacco.  The Company purchases tobacco primarily in the United States, Africa, Europe, South America and Asia for sale to customers primarily in the United States, Europe and Asia.


Basis of Presentation

The accounts of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries are included in the consolidated financial statements after elimination of intercompany accounts and transactions.  The Company uses the cost or equity method of accounting for its investments in affiliates that are owned 50% or less and are not variable interest entities where the Company is the primary beneficiary.

          The Company is accounting for its investment in the Zimbabwe operations on the cost method and has been reporting it in Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates in the consolidated balance sheet since March 31, 2006.  During fiscal year 2007, the Company wrote its investment in the Zimbabwe operations down to zero, however the Company continues to make advances and guarantees on behalf of this entity.  See Note 19 “Related Party Transactions” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates

The Company’s equity method investments and its cost method investments, including its Zimbabwe operations, are non-marketable securities. The Company reviews such investments for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an investment may not be recovered. For example, the Company would test such an investment for impairment if the investee were to lose a significant customer, suffer a large reduction in sales margins, experience a major change in its business environment, or undergo any other significant change in its normal business. In assessing the recoverability of equity or cost method investments, the Company uses discounted cash flow models. If the fair value of an equity investee is determined to be lower than its carrying value, an impairment loss is recognized. The preparation of discounted future cash flow analysis requires significant management judgment with respect to future operating earnings growth rates and the selection of an appropriate discount rate. The use of different assumptions could increase or decrease estimated future operating cash flows, and the discounted value of those cash flows, and therefore could increase or decrease any impairment charge.


Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions.  These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities.  They also affect the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.  Actual results could differ from these estimates, and changes in these estimates are recorded when known.  Estimates are used in accounting for, among other things, pension and postretirement health care benefits, inventory market values, allowances for doubtful accounts and advances, bank loan guarantees to suppliers, useful lives for depreciation and amortization, future cash flows associated with impairment testing for long-lived assets, deferred tax assets and uncertain income tax positions, intrastate tax credits in Brazil and fair value determinations of financial assets and liabilities including derivatives, securitized beneficial interests and counterparty risk. Changes in market and economic conditions, local tax laws, and other related factors are considered each reporting period, and adjustments to the accounts are made based on the Company’s best judgment.


Revenue Recognition

The Company recognizes revenue from the sale of tobacco when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, the price to the customer is fixed or determinable, collectibility is reasonably assured and title and risk of ownership is passed to the customer, which is upon shipment or delivery.  The Company requires that all customer-specific acceptance provisions be met at the time title and risk of ownership passes to the customer.  Furthermore, the Company’s sales history indicates customer returns and rejections are not significant.

          The Company also processes tobacco owned by its customers and revenue is recognized based on contractual terms.  The Company’s history indicates customer requirements for processed tobacco are met upon completion of processing.  In addition, advances from customers are deferred and recognized as revenue upon shipment or delivery.


Taxes Collected from Customers

Certain subsidiaries are subject to value added taxes on local sales.  These amounts have been included in sales and were $31,043, $32,906 and $28,969 for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.



- 41 -








ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Shipping and Handling

Shipping and handling costs are included in cost of goods and services sold in the statement of operations.


Other Income (Expense)

Other Income (Expense) consists primarily of gains on sales of property, plant and equipment and assets held for sale.  This caption also includes expenses related to the Company’s sale of receivables.  See Note 17 “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.  During fiscal 2011, the Company recorded a gain of $37,765 on the assignment of approximately 9,000 tobacco suppliers in Southern Brazil and the sale of related assets to the Brazilian affiliate of Philip Morris International, Inc. (“PMI”).  The Company expects to continue to supply processed tobacco to PMI and to process tobacco for PMI’s Brazilian affiliate under a long-term processing agreement.  During fiscal 2010, an estimate of a probable loss in connection with a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”) investigation was recorded.  The following table summarizes the significant components of Other Income (Expense).


 

Years Ending March 31,

 

2011

2010

2009

Malawi other property sales

$  1,975 

$     1,677 

$          - 

Turkey storage and other property sales

2,567 

Brazil factory and other property sales to PMI’s affiliate

37,765 

Other sales of assets and expenses

97 

896 

3,762 

FCPA loss

(19,450)

Losses on sale of receivables

(2,395)

(2,950)

(3,548)

 

$  37,442 

$ (17,260)

$     214 


Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash equivalents are defined as temporary investments of cash with original maturities of less than 90 days.  At March 31, 2011, cash and cash equivalents included $325 of customer funding that was restricted for social responsibility programs maintained by the Company.  At March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, $296 and $294 of cash held on deposit as a compensating balance for short-term borrowings was included in other current assets.


Trade and Other Receivables

Trade and other receivables consist of $264,174 of trade receivables and $15,730 of other receivables at March 31, 2011. The balances at March 31, 2010 were $198,753 and $8,634 for trade receivables and other receivables, respectively.

          Trade receivables are amounts owed to the Company from its customers. Trade receivables are recorded at invoiced amounts and primarily have net 30 day terms. The Company extends credit to its customers based on an evaluation of a company’s financial condition and collateral is generally not required.

          The Company maintains an allowance for doubtful accounts for estimated uncollectible accounts receivable. The allowance is based on the Company’s assessment of known delinquent accounts, other currently available evidence of collectibility and the aging of accounts receivable. The Company’s allowance for doubtful accounts was $3,732 and $3,906 at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  The provision for doubtful accounts was $3,086, $447 and $882 for the years ending March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively and is reported primarily in selling, administrative and general expenses in the consolidated statement of operations.

          Other receivables consist primarily of value added tax (VAT) receivables of $12,282 and $6,161 at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.


Other Deferred Charges

Other deferred charges are primarily deferred financing costs that are amortized over the life of the debt.

 




- 42 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Sale of Accounts Receivable

The Company is engaged in a revolving trade accounts receivable securitization arrangement to sell receivables to a third party limited liability company.  The Company records the transaction as a sale of receivables, removes such receivables from its financial statements and records a receivable for the beneficial interest in such receivables.  The losses on the sale of receivables are recognized in Other Income (Expense).  As of March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, accounts receivable sold and outstanding were $53,156 and $105,579.  See Note 17 “Sale of Receivables” and Note 18 “Fair Value Measurements” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Inventories

Costs in inventory include processed tobacco inventory, unprocessed tobacco inventory and other inventory. Costs of unprocessed tobacco inventories are determined by the average cost method, which include the cost of green tobacco. Costs of processed tobacco inventories are determined by the average cost method, which include both the cost of unprocessed tobacco, as well as direct and indirect costs that are related to the processing of the product. Costs of other non-tobacco inventory are determined by the first-in, first-out method, which include costs of packing materials, non-tobacco agricultural products and agricultural supplies including seed, fertilizer, herbicides and pesticides.

          Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market (“LCM”). The Company evaluates its inventories for LCM adjustments by country and type of inventory. Therefore, processed tobacco and unprocessed tobacco are evaluated separately for LCM purposes.  The Company compares the cost of its processed tobacco to market values based on recent sales of similar grades when evaluating those balances for LCM adjustments.  The Company also considers whether its processed tobacco is committed to a customer, whereby the expected sales price would be utilized in determining the market value for committed tobacco.  

          The Company reviews data on market conditions in performing its LCM evaluation for unprocessed tobacco. Further, the Company identifies the tobacco cost plus estimated costs to complete and compares those costs to the current market prices based on purchase commitments in determining whether an LCM adjustment is needed on its unprocessed tobacco.

          See Note 2 “Inventories” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Advances to Tobacco Suppliers

The Company purchases seeds, fertilizer, pesticides and other products related to growing tobacco and advances them to suppliers, which represents prepaid inventory and is recorded as advances to tobacco suppliers. The advances of current crop inputs generally include the original cost of the inputs plus a mark-up and interest as it is earned.  Where contractually permitted, the Company charges interest to the suppliers during the period the current crop advance is outstanding. The Company generally advances the inputs at a price that is greater than its cost, which results in a mark-up on the inputs. The suppliers then utilize these inputs to grow tobacco, which the Company is contractually obligated to purchase.  Upon delivery of tobacco, part of the purchase price to the supplier is paid in cash and part through a reduction of the advance balance.  The advances applied to the delivery are then reclassed out of advances and included as unprocessed inventory. Advances to tobacco suppliers are accounted for utilizing a cost accumulation methodology.

          The Company has current and noncurrent advances to tobacco suppliers. The current advances represent the cost of the seeds, fertilizer and other materials that are advanced for the current crop of inventory. The noncurrent advances generally represent the cost of advances to suppliers for infrastructure, such as curing barns, which is also recovered through the delivery of tobacco to the Company by the suppliers. As a result of various factors in a given crop year (weather, etc.) not all suppliers are able to settle the entire amount of advances that are due that year. In these situations, the Company may allow the suppliers to deliver tobacco over future crop years to recover its advances. The advance balances that are deferred over future crop years are also classified as noncurrent.

          Advances to tobacco suppliers are carried at cost and evaluated for recoverability. The realizability evaluation process is similar to that of the LCM evaluation process for inventories. The Company evaluates its advances for recoverability by crop and country. The Company reclasses the advance to inventory at the time suppliers deliver tobacco. The purchase price for the tobacco delivered by the suppliers is based on market prices. Two primary factors determine the market value of the tobacco suppliers deliver: the quantity of tobacco delivered and the quality of the tobacco delivered. Therefore, the Company ensures its advances are appropriately stated at the lower of cost or estimated recoverable amounts.




- 43 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Advances to Tobacco Suppliers (continued)

          Upon delivery of tobacco, part of the purchase price to the supplier is paid in cash and part through a reduction of the advance balance.  If a sufficient value of tobacco is not delivered to allow the reduction of the entire advance balance, then the Company first determines how much of the deficiency for the current crop is recoverable through future crops. This determination is made by analyzing the suppliers’ ability-to-deliver a sufficient supply of tobacco. This analysis includes historical quantity and quality of production with monitoring of crop information provided by field service technicians related to flood, drought and disease. The remaining recoverable advance balance would then be classified as noncurrent.  Any increase in the estimate of unrecoverable advances associated with the noncurrent portion is charged to cost of goods and services sold in the income statement when determined.  Amounts not expected to be recovered through current or future crops are then evaluated to determine whether the yield is considered to be normal or abnormal.  If the yield adjustment is normal, then the Company capitalizes the applicable variance in the current crop of inventory. If the yield adjustment is considered abnormal, then the Company immediately charges the applicable variance to cost of goods and services sold in the income statement. A normal yield adjustment is based on the range of unrecoverability for the previous three years by country.  

          The Company accounts for its advances to tobacco suppliers using a cost accumulation model, which results in the reporting of its advances at the lower of cost or recoverable amounts exclusive of the mark-up and interest. The mark-up and interest on its advances are recognized upon delivery of tobacco as a decrease in the cost of the current crop. The mark-up and interest capitalized or to be capitalized into inventory for the current crop was $24,995 and $50,587 as of March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  Unrecoverable advances and other costs capitalized or to be capitalized into the current crop was $15,221 and $25,135 at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  The following table reflects the classification of advances to tobacco suppliers:


 

March 31, 2011

March 31, 2010

Current

$  74,556            

$   70,749            

Noncurrent

12,706            

36,824            

 

$  87,262            

$ 107,573            


          Noncurrent advances to tobacco suppliers are recorded in other noncurrent assets in the consolidated balance sheet.

          Unrecovered amounts expensed directly to cost of goods and services sold in the income statement for abnormal yield adjustments or unrecovered amounts from prior crops were $1,350, $6,385 and $1,074 for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Normal yield adjustments are capitalized into the cost of the current crop and are expensed as cost of goods and services sold as that crop is sold.


Guarantees

The Company and certain of its foreign subsidiaries guarantee bank loans to suppliers to finance their crops.  Under longer-term arrangements, the Company may also guarantee financing on suppliers’ construction of curing barns or other tobacco production assets.  The Company also guarantees bank loans to certain tobacco cooperatives to assist with the financing of their suppliers’ crops.  Guaranteed loans are generally repaid concurrent with the delivery of tobacco to the Company.  The Company is obligated to repay any guaranteed loan should the supplier or tobacco cooperative default.  If default occurs, the Company has recourse against the supplier or cooperative.  The following table summarizes amounts guaranteed and the fair value of those guarantees:


 

March 31, 2011

 

March 31, 2010

Amounts guaranteed (not to exceed)

$ 119,114          

 

$  184,575        

Amounts outstanding under guarantee

102,550          

 

184,382        

Fair value of guarantees

4,575          

 

13,478        


         Of the guarantees outstanding at March 31, 2011 approximately 84% expire within one year and the remainder within five years.  The fair value of guarantees is recorded in Accrued Expenses and Other Current Liabilities in the consolidated balance sheets and included in crop costs.



- 44 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Guarantees (continued)

         In Brazil, some suppliers obtain government subsidized rural credit financing from local banks that is guaranteed by the Company. The Company withholds amounts owed to suppliers related to the rural credit financing of the supplier upon delivery of tobacco to the Company. The Company remits payments to the local banks on behalf of the guaranteed suppliers. Terms of rural credit financing are such that repayment is due to local banks based on contractual due dates. As of March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, the Company had balances of $27,750 and $55,926 that were due to local banks on behalf of suppliers. These amounts are included in accounts payable in the consolidated balance sheets.


Goodwill and Other Intangibles

Goodwill represents the excess of purchase price over fair value of net assets acquired, and is allocated to the appropriate reporting unit when acquired. Goodwill is not amortized; rather it is evaluated for impairment annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the value of the asset may be impaired.  Goodwill is evaluated for impairment by determining the fair value of the related reporting unit. Fair value is measured based on a discounted cash flow method or relative market-based approach. If the carrying amount of goodwill exceeds its fair value, an impairment charge is recorded.

          The Company has no other intangible assets with indefinite useful lives. It does have other intangible assets, production and supply contracts and a customer relationship intangible asset as well as internally developed software that is capitalized into intangibles.  These intangible assets are stated at amortized cost and tested for impairment whenever factors indicate the carrying amount may not be recoverable.  Supply contracts are amortized based on the expected realization of the benefit over the term of the contracts ranging from three to five years.  Production contracts and the customer relationship intangible are both amortized on a straight-line basis ranging from five to ten years and twenty years, respectively.  The amortization period is the term of the contract or, if no term is specified in the contract, management’s best estimate of the useful life based on past experience.  Internally developed software is amortized on a straight-line basis over five years once the software testing is complete.  Events and changes in circumstance may either result in a revision in the estimated useful life or impairment of an intangible resulting in revaluation of the asset value to its fair value.  See Note 5 “Goodwill and Other Intangibles” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Other Noncurrent Assets

For the year ended March 31, 2011, other noncurrent assets consist primarily of long-term VAT and intrastate tax receivables of $37,359, long-term advances to suppliers of $12,706 and long-term recoverable income taxes of $11,360.  For the year ended March 31, 2010, other noncurrent assets consist primarily of long-term VAT and intrastate tax receivables of $31,230 and long-term advances to suppliers of $36,824.


Property, Plant and Equipment

Property, plant and equipment at March 31, 2011 and 2010, are summarized as follows:


 

2011         

 

2010             

 

   Land

$    25,295       

 

$   20,983       

 

   Buildings

184,888       

 

156,886       

 

   Machinery and equipment

170,349       

 

158,809       

 

      Total

380,532       

 

336,678       

 

   Less accumulated depreciation

143,444       

 

143,454       

 

          Total property, plant and equipment, net

$  237,088       

 

$ 193,224       

 


          Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation.  Provisions for depreciation are computed on a straight-line basis at annual rates calculated to amortize the cost of depreciable properties over their estimated useful lives.  Buildings, machinery and equipment and technological equipment are depreciated over ranges of 20 to 30 years, 5 to 10 years and 3 to 5 years, respectively.  The consolidated financial statements do not include fully depreciated assets.  Depreciation expense recorded in cost of goods and services sold for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $20,699, $21,714 and $22,944, respectively.  Depreciation expense recorded in selling, administrative and general expense for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 was $2,915, $2,933 and $3,094, respectively.  For fiscal 2011, total property and equipment purchases, including internally developed software intangibles, were $70,608 of which $3,141 was unpaid at March 31, 2011 and included in accounts payable. Included in fiscal 2011 purchases is $43,775 for a new tobacco processing facility in the State of Santa Catarina by the Company’s subsidiary in Brazil.  The plant has an annual production capacity of 70 million kilos and began processing with the 2011 crop.



- 45 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Property, Plant and Equipment (continued)

          Estimated useful lives are periodically reviewed and changes are made to the estimated useful lives when necessary. Long-lived assets are reviewed for indicators of impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.  The evaluation is performed at the lowest level of identifiable cash flows.  An impairment loss would be recognized when estimated undiscounted future cash flows from the use of the asset and its eventual disposition are less than its carrying amount. Measurement of an impairment loss would be based on the excess of the carrying amount of the asset over its fair value. Fair value is the amount at which the asset could be bought or sold in a current transaction between willing parties and may be estimated using a number of techniques, including quoted market prices or valuations, present value techniques based on estimates of cash flows, or multiples of earnings or revenue performance measures.

          A component of a business that is either disposed of or held for sale is reported as discontinued operations if there will be no significant involvement in such operations in the future.  The Company has made such decisions in prior years concerning tobacco operations in Mozambique and its wool operations.  These operations are reported as discontinued operations in the financial statements and have resulted in income of $407 in 2009.  The Company completed the liquidation of these operations as of March 31, 2009.  See Discontinued Operations below for further information.


Assets Held For Sale

The Company classifies assets as “Assets Held For Sale” when the company has committed to a plan to sell the assets, including the initiation of a plan to locate a buyer, the assets are available for immediate sale, and it is probable that the assets will be sold within one year based on its current condition and sales price.  Upon classifying the assets as held for sale, the assets are recorded at the lower of historical cost or fair value less selling costs and depreciation is discontinued.  Assets classified as held for sale were $413 and $819 at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.


Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company uses forward or option currency contracts to protect against volatility associated with certain non-U.S. dollar denominated forecasted transactions.  The Company does not currently deem underlying criteria to be perfectly matched and therefore does not believe the currency contracts qualify for hedge accounting as defined by generally accepted accounting principles.  As a result, the Company has recorded income (expense) of $5,679, $11,448 and $(3,702) in its cost of goods and services sold for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  The Company has also recorded income of $95, $3,640 and $879 in its selling, administrative and general expenses for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  See Note 6 “Derivative and Other Financial Instruments” to the "Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements" for further information.


Income Taxes

The Company uses the asset and liability method to account for income taxes. The objective of the asset and liability method is to establish deferred tax assets and liabilities for the temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the income tax basis of the Company’s assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect when such amounts are realized or settled.

          The Company’s annual tax rate is based on its income, statutory tax rates and tax planning opportunities available to it in the various jurisdictions in which it operates. Tax laws are complex and subject to different interpretations by the taxpayer and respective governmental taxing authorities.  Significant judgment is required in determining tax expense and in evaluating tax positions, including evaluating uncertainties.  The Company reviews its tax positions quarterly and adjusts the balances as new information becomes available.

          Deferred income tax assets represent amounts available to reduce income taxes payable on taxable income in future years. Such assets arise because of temporary differences between the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as well as from net operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. The Company evaluates the recoverability of these future tax deductions by assessing the adequacy of future expected taxable income from all sources, including reversal of taxable temporary differences, forecasted operating earnings and available tax planning strategies. These sources of income inherently rely on estimates. The Company uses historical experience and short and long-range business forecasts to provide insight.  The Company believes it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred income tax assets may expire unused and has established a valuation allowance against them. Although realization is not assured for the remaining deferred income tax assets, the Company believes it is more likely than not the deferred tax assets will be fully recoverable within the applicable statutory expiration periods. However, deferred tax assets could be reduced in the near term if estimates of taxable income are significantly reduced or available tax planning strategies are no longer viable.  See Note 12 “Income Taxes” and Note 16 “Contingencies and Other Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.



- 46 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Stock-Based Compensation

The Company expenses the fair value of grants of various stock-based compensation programs at fair value over the vesting period of the awards.  The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes-Merton option valuation model which was developed for use in estimating the fair value of exchange traded options that have no vesting restrictions and are fully transferable. Option valuation methods require the input of highly subjective assumptions, including the expected stock price volatility.  See Note 11 “Stock-Based Compensation” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.


Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information

During fiscal 2009, non-cash investing activities included $17,184 related to the net settlement of foreign currency derivatives and a supply contract valued at $7,844 of which $5,914 was unpaid and included in accrued expenses at March 31, 2009.  


New Accounting Standards


Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements

On April 1, 2010, the Company adopted new accounting guidance on accounting for transfers of financial assets. The objective of this accounting guidance is to improve the relevance, representational faithfulness, and comparability of the information that a reporting entity provides in its financial reports about a transfer of financial assets; the effects of a transfer on its financial position, financial performance, and cash flows; and a transferor’s continuing involvement in transferred financial assets.  The Company adopted this new accounting guidance with no material impact to its financial condition and results of operations.  See Note 17 “Sale of Receivables” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further details.

         On April 1, 2010, the Company adopted new accounting guidance on accounting for variable interest entities. The objective of this accounting guidance is to improve financial reporting by enterprises involved with variable interest entities and to provide more relevant and reliable information to users of financial statements.  The Company adopted this new accounting guidance with no material impact to its financial condition and results of operations.  See Note 3 “Variable Interest Entities” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further details.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted

In October 2009, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on accounting for multiple-deliverable revenue arrangements. The objective of this accounting guidance is to address the accounting for multiple-deliverable arrangements to enable vendors to account for products or services (deliverables) separately rather than as a combined unit. This accounting guidance will be effective for the Company on April 1, 2011. The Company does not expect the impact of this new accounting guidance to have a material impact on its financial condition or results of operations.

         In January 2010, the FASB issued new accounting guidance on fair value measurements and disclosures. This guidance requires reporting entities to disclose separately the amounts of significant transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements and describe the reasons for the transfers. It will also require reporting entities to present separately information about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in their Level 3 fair value reconciliations. The new disclosures and clarifications of existing disclosures (the Level 1 and Level 2 changes) were effective for the Company on January 1, 2010 with no material impact to the Company.  The disclosures about purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements in the roll forward of activity in Level 3 fair value measurements will be effective for the Company on April 1, 2011. The Company does not expect these new disclosure requirements to have a material impact on its financial condition or results of operations.

 




- 47 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Computation of Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share


Computation of Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share

 

Years Ended March 31,

(in thousands, except per share data)

2011

2010

2009

BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS)

 

 

 

Amounts attributable to Alliance One International, Inc.

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$ (71,551)   

$ 79,167    

$ 132,151  

   Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

-    

-   

407  

   Net income (loss) attributable to Alliance One International, Inc.

$ (71,551)   

$ 79,167    

$ 132,558  

 

 

 

 

SHARES

 

 

 

   Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding

87,799    

88,627    

88,359  

 

 

 

 

BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$     (0.81)   

$     0.89    

$        1.50 

   Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

-    

-    

-  

   Net income (loss)

$     (0.81)   

$     0.89    

$       1.50  

 

 

 

 

DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS)

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$ (71,551)   

$ 79,167    

$ 132,151  

   Plus interest expense on 5 ½% convertible notes, net of tax

-*   

3,072    

-  

   Income (loss) from continuing operations, net of tax as adjusted

(71,551)   

82,239    

132,151  

   Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

-    

-    

407  

   Net income (loss) attributable to Alliance One International, Inc. as adjusted

$ (71,551)   

$ 82,239    

$ 132,558  

 

 

SHARES

 

   Weighted average number of common shares outstanding

87,799    

88,627    

88,359  

   Plus:  Restricted shares issued and shares applicable to stock options
             and restricted stock units, net of shares assumed to be
             purchased from proceeds at average market price

-*   

413    

702  

             Assuming conversion of 5 ½% convertible notes

-*   

17,001    

-  

             Shares applicable to stock warrants

-** 

-*  

-  

   Average Number of Shares Outstanding

87,799    

106,041    

89,061  

 

 

DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

 

 

 

   Income (loss) from continuing operations

$     (0.81)   

$     0.78    

$       1.49  

   Income from discontinued operations

-    

-    

-  

   Net income (loss) as adjusted

$     (0.81)   

$     0.78    

$       1.49  

 

  *

Assumed conversion of convertible notes at the beginning of the period has an antidilutive effect on earnings (loss) per share.  All outstanding restricted shares and shares applicable to stock options and restricted stock units are excluded because their inclusion would have an antidilutive effect on the loss per share.

**

For the year ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, the warrants were not assumed exercised because the exercise price was more than the average price for the period.

The weighted average number of common shares outstanding is reported as the weighted average of the total shares of common stock outstanding net of shares of common stock held by a wholly owned subsidiary.  Shares of common stock owned by the subsidiary were 7,853 at March 31, 2011 and 2010.  This subsidiary waives its right to receive dividends and it does not have the right to vote.

          Certain potentially dilutive options were not included in the computation of earnings per diluted share because their exercise prices were greater than the average market price of the shares of common stock during the period and their effect would be antidilutive.  These shares totaled 4,042 at a weighted average exercise price of $6.30 per share at March 31, 2011 and 1,622 at a weighted average exercise price of $7.02 per share at March 31, 2010.





- 48 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 1 – Significant Accounting Policies (continued)


Computation of Earnings (Loss) Per Common Share (continued)

          In connection with the offering of the Company’s 5 ½% Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014, issued on July 2, 2009 (the “Convertible Notes”), the Company entered into privately negotiated convertible note hedge transactions (the “convertible note hedge transactions”) equal to the number of shares that underlie the Company’s Convertible Notes.  These convertible note hedge transactions are expected to reduce the potential dilution of the Company’s common stock upon conversion of the Convertible Notes in the event that the value per share of common stock exceeds the initial conversion price of $5.0280 per share.  These shares were not included in the computation of earnings per diluted share because their inclusion would be antidilutive.

          On July 28, 2010, the Company’s board of directors authorized the purchase up to $40,000 of its common stock through June 30, 2012.  As of March 31, 2011, the Company has purchased 2,380 shares of its common stock at a weighted average price paid per share of $3.78.


Concentration of Credit Risk

The Company may potentially be subject to a concentration of credit risks due to tobacco supplier advances and trade receivables relating to customers in the tobacco industry as well as cash which is deposited with high-credit-quality financial institutions.  See Note 14 “Segment Information” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information of particular concentrations.


Preferred Stock

The Board of Directors is authorized to issue shares of Preferred Stock in series with variations as to the number of shares in any series.  The Board of Directors also is authorized to establish the rights and privileges of such shares issued, including dividend and voting rights.  At March 31, 2011, 10,000 shares of preferred stock were authorized and no shares had been issued.


Discontinued Operations

The Company continually evaluates its component operations to assure they are consistent with its business plan.  Results of operations of our business reported as discontinued operations were as follows:


Year Ended March 31, 2009

Mozambique

Wool     

Total     

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income from discontinued operations, net of tax:

 

 

 

 

Income from discontinued operations, before tax

$  87 

$  320 

$  407 

 

Income tax expense

 

 Income from discontinued operations, net of tax

$  87 

$  320 

$  407 

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2009, the Company had completed the liquidation of its discontinued operations.


Note 2 – Inventories


 

March 31, 2011

March 31, 2010

Processed tobacco

$  525,759           

$ 417,996           

Unprocessed tobacco

230,831           

354,155           

Other

43,775           

51,996           

 

$  800,365           

$ 824,147           


See Note 1 “Significant Accounting Policies - Inventories” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information on the costs that comprise the inventory balances and the LCM testing methodologies.  

          The Company recorded LCM adjustments of $15,443, $1,094 and $313 for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.



- 49 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 3 – Variable Interest Entities


On April 1, 2010, the Company adopted new accounting guidance on accounting for variable interest entities (“VIEs”). This accounting guidance amended the consolidation guidance applicable to VIEs and required additional disclosures concerning an enterprise’s continuing involvement with VIEs.


Consolidated Variable Interest Entities

The Company holds a variable interest in one joint venture in which the Company is the primary beneficiary because of its power to direct activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entity.  The joint venture is an enterprise that serves as a dedicated inventory supply source in Asia and the Company’s variable interest in this joint venture relates to working capital advances.

          As the primary beneficiary of this VIE, the entity’s material assets and results of operations are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. The following table summarizes the material carrying amounts of the entity’s assets, all of which are restricted, included in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets at March 31, 2011 and 2010.


Assets of Consolidated VIE

March 31, 2011

 

March 31, 2010

Inventory

$ 5,195      

 

$ 12,069      

Advances to suppliers

1,770      

 

3,746      


          Amounts presented in the table above as restricted assets relating to the consolidated VIE are adjusted for intercompany eliminations.  Subsequent to year end, the Company terminated its relationship with this entity.


Nonconsolidated Variable Interest Entities

The Company holds variable interests in four joint ventures that are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. These joint ventures procure inventory on behalf of the Company and the other joint venture partners. The variable interests relate to equity investments and advances made by the Company to the joint ventures.  In addition, the Company also guarantees one of its joint venture’s borrowings which also represent a variable interest in that joint venture.  The Company is not the primary beneficiary, as it does not have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the economic performance of the entities as a result of the entities’ management and board of directors structure. Therefore, these entities are not consolidated. At March 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company’s investment in these joint ventures was $24,753 and $22,290, respectively and is classified as Investments in Unconsolidated Affiliates in the consolidated balance sheets. The Company’s advances to these joint ventures were $36 and $8,936 at March, 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, and are classified as Accounts Receivable, Related Parties in the consolidated balance sheets.  The Company guaranteed an amount to a joint venture not to exceed $16,982 and $17,121 at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  The investments, advances and guarantee in these joint ventures represent the Company’s maximum exposure to loss.


Note 4 – Restructuring Charges


In response to shifting supply and demand balances and the changing business models of the Company’s customers, the Company began implementing several strategic initiatives.  The first was to begin realigning the Company’s organization by transitioning the United Kingdom finance and logistics functions to the United States in October 2010 and closing the Netherlands office in November 2010.  In December 2010, new leadership was appointed to better position the Company for the future.  In addition, origin and corporate operations were reviewed and initiatives were implemented to increase operational efficiency and effectiveness.  As a result, total charges of $14,824 were incurred in connection with the reduction in the global workforce including an impact on the Company’s pension plans of $1,271.  Other restructuring charges of $8,643 were incurred primarily related to the relocation of factory equipment in Brazil.  The initiatives will continue over the coming quarters as the Company continues to define and execute the necessary changes to support core business functions.



- 50 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 4 – Restructuring Charges (continued)


The following table summarizes the restructuring actions as of March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:


 

Years Ended March 31,

Restructuring Charges

2011

2010

2009

Employee separation and other cash charges:

 

 

 

   Beginning balance

$           -     

$    103     

$   2,360     

   Period Charges:

 

 

 

      Employee separation charges

13,474     

-     

605     

      Other cash charges (recoveries)

5,863     

-     

(24)    

   Total employee separation and other cash charges

19,337     

-     

581     

   Payments through March 31

(13,144)    

(103)    

(2,838)    

   Ending balance March 31

$  6,193      

$         -     

$      103     

   Other non-cash charges

4,130     

-     

10     

Total restructuring charges

$ 23,467     

$         -     

$      591     


         The following table summarizes cash payments for employee separation and other cash charges for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009.


 

Year Ending March 31,

Total

Cash Payments by Year

2011

2010

2009

Payments

Employee separation and other cash charges

$ 19,337 

$    - 

$    581 

 

Cash paid 2009

(548)

$    (548) 

Cash paid 2010

(33)

$      (33) 

Cash paid 2011

(13,144)

$ (13,144) 

Balances at March 31, 2011

$  6,193 

$    - 

$         - 

 


         The following table summarizes the employee separation and other cash charges recorded in the Company’s South America and Other Regions segments as of March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:


 

Years Ended March 31,

Employee Separation and Other Cash Charges

2011

2010

2009

 

 

 

 

Beginning balance:

$        - 

$ 103 

$ 2,360 

   South America

134 

   Other regions

103 

2,226 

Period charges:

$  19,337 

$      - 

$    581 

   South America

7,589 

47 

   Other regions

11,748 

534 

Payments through March 31:

$  (13,144)

$(103)

$(2,838)

   South America

(6,516)

(181)

   Other regions

(6,628)

(103)

(2,657)

Ending balance March 31:

$   6,193 

$      - 

$    103 

   South America

1,073 

   Other regions

5,120 

103 


         Non-cash charges related to the South America segment were $2,860 during the year ended March 31, 2011.  Non-cash charges related to the Other Regions segment were $1,270 and $10 during the years ended March 31, 2011 and 2009, respectively.



- 51 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 5 – Goodwill and Other Intangibles


The Company tests the carrying amount of goodwill annually as of the first day of the last quarter of the fiscal year and whenever events or circumstances indicate that impairment may have occurred.  The Company evaluated its goodwill for impairment during fiscal 2011, 2010 and 2009 and determined that no impairment was required.

          The carrying value of other intangible assets as of March 31, 2011 represents customer relationship, production and supply contracts and internally developed software.  These intangible assets were determined by management to meet the criterion for recognition apart from goodwill and have finite lives.  The Company uses judgment in assessing whether the carrying amount of its intangible assets is not expected to be recoverable over their estimated remaining useful lives.  Amortization expense associated with these intangible assets was $5,094, $5,618 and $3,412 for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively and is recorded in selling, administrative and general expenses.

          The Company began implementing a new ERP system in fiscal 2008 and capitalized certain costs into intangible assets within the consolidated balance sheet in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  As of March 31, 2011, the Company had incurred $15,125 of capitalizable costs associated with the ERP implementation and $642 of capitalizable costs related to other internally developed software projects.  The ERP system was placed in service in the United States, Brazil and the United Kingdom during fiscal 2009, in Tanzania and Kenya during fiscal 2010 and in Malawi, Canada, Zambia, Argentina, the Netherlands, Russia and Guatemala during fiscal 2011.  Amortization of the final accumulated costs of each location is over a five year useful life.

          Goodwill and Intangible Asset Rollforward:


 

 

Unamortizable
Goodwill

 

Amortizable Intangibles

 

 

 

Other
Regions
Segment

 

Customer
Relationship
Intangible

 

Production
and Supply
Contract
Intangibles

 

Internally
Developed
Software
Intangible

 

Total

Weighted average remaining

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    useful life in years as of     March 31, 2011

 

 

14 

 

 

 

 

March 31, 2009 balance:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Gross carrying amount

 

$   2,794 

 

$ 33,700 

 

$ 7,844 

 

$ 13,776 

 

$ 58,114 

      Accumulated amortization

 

 

(6,529)

 

(270)

 

(1,438)

 

(8,237)

Net March 31, 2009 balance

 

2,794 

 

27,171 

 

7,574 

 

12,338 

 

49,877 

      Additions

 

 

 

49 

 

683 

 

732 

      Amortization expense

 

 

(1,685)

 

(1,182)

 

(2,751)

 

(5,618)

Net March 31, 2010 balance

 

2,794 

 

25,486 

 

6,441 

 

10,270 

 

44,991 

      Additions

 

 

 

 

1,308 

 

1,308 

      Amortization expense

 

 

(1,685)

 

(496)

 

(2,913)

 

(5,094)

Net March 31, 2011 balance

 

$   2,794 

 

$ 23,801 

 

$   5,945 

 

$   8,665 

 

$ 41,205 


          Estimated Intangible Asset Amortization Expense:


For Fiscal
Years Ended

 

Customer
Relationship
Intangible

 

Production
and Supply
Contract
Intangible

 

Internally    
Developed    
Software   
Intangible *

 

Total

2012        

 

$   1,685      

 

$  1,173      

 

$  3,086      

 

$   5,944      

2013        

 

1,685      

 

1,251      

 

3,154      

 

6,090      

2014        

 

1,685      

 

1,251      

 

1,715      

 

4,651      

2015        

 

1,685      

 

1,173      

 

402      

 

3,260      

2016        

 

1,685      

 

1,097      

 

240      

 

3,022      

Later        

 

15,376      

 

-      

 

68      

 

15,444      

 

 

$ 23,801      

 

$  5,945      

 

$  8,665      

 

$ 38,411      

*  Estimated amortization expense for the internally developed software is based on costs accumulated as of March 31, 2011.
    These estimates will change as new costs are incurred and until the software is placed into service in all locations.




ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 6 – Derivative and Other Financial Instruments


Fair Value of Derivative Financial Instruments

The Company recognizes all derivative financial instruments, such as interest rate swap contracts and foreign exchange contracts at fair value.  Changes in the fair value of derivative financial instruments are either recognized periodically in income or in shareholders’ equity as a component of other comprehensive income depending on whether the derivative financial instrument qualifies for hedge accounting, and if so, whether it qualifies as a fair value hedge or a cash flow hedge.  Estimates of fair value were determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.  The Company has elected not to offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments with the same counterparty under a master netting agreement.  See Note 18 “Fair Value Measurements” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information of fair value methodology.  The following table summarizes the fair value of the Company’s derivatives by type at March 31, 2011 and 2010.


 

 

Fair Values of Derivative Instruments

 

 

Assets

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments Under ASC 815:

 

Balance Sheet Account

 

Fair Value

     Foreign currency contracts at March 31, 2011 (a)

 

Current Derivative Asset

 

$  2,543   

     Foreign currency contracts at March 31, 2010 (a)

 

Current Derivative Asset

 

$  2,528   

 

 

 

 

 

(a) The cumulative adjustment for non-performance risk was a loss of $3 at March 31, 2011 and a loss of $4 at March 31, 2010.


Earnings Effects of Derivatives


Foreign Currency Contracts

The Company has entered into forward or option currency contracts to protect against volatility associated with certain non-U.S. dollar denominated forecasted transactions.  These contracts are for green tobacco purchases and processing costs as well as selling, administrative and general costs as the Company deems necessary. These contracts do not meet the requirements for hedge accounting treatment under generally accepted accounting principles, and as such, changes in fair value are reported in income each period.

          The following table summarizes the earnings effects of derivatives in the statements of consolidated operations for the years ending March 31, 2011, 2010, and 2009.


Derivatives Not Designated
as Hedging Instruments
Under ASC 815:

 

Location of Gain
(Loss) Recognized
in Income

 

Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income

 

 

 

 

2011

 

2010

 

2009

Foreign currency contracts

 

Cost of goods and services sold

 

$ 5,679  

 

$ 11,448  

 

$  (3,702)

Foreign currency contracts

 

Selling, administrative and general expenses

 

95  

 

3,640  

 

879 

Total

 

 

 

$ 5,774  

 

$ 15,088  

 

$  (2,823)


Credit Risk

Financial instruments, including derivatives, expose the Company to credit loss in the event of non-performance by counterparties.  The Company manages its exposure to counterparty credit risk through specific minimum credit standards, diversification of counterparties, and procedures to monitor concentrations of credit risk.  If a counterparty fails to meet the terms of an arrangement, the Company’s exposure is limited to the net amount that would have been received, if any, over the arrangement’s remaining life.  The Company does not anticipate non-performance by the counterparties and no material loss would be expected from non-performance by any one of such counterparties.


Note 7 – Short-Term Borrowing Arrangements


Excluding all long-term credit agreements, the Company has lines of credit arrangements with a number of banks under which the Company may borrow up to a total of $798,599 and $619,294 at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  The weighted average variable interest rate for the twelve months ending March 31, 2011 was 3.5%.  At March 31, 2011 and 2010, amounts outstanding under the lines were $231,407 and $188,981, respectively.  Unused lines of credit at March 31, 2011 amounted to $553,211 ($416,131 at March 31, 2010), net of $13,981 of letters of credit lines.  Certain non-U.S. borrowings of approximately $2,818 and $1,349 have inventories of approximately $2,849 and $1,353 as collateral at March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively.  At March 31, 2011 and 2010, respectively, $296 and $294 were held on deposit as a compensating balance.



- 53 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 7 – Short-Term Borrowing Arrangements (continued)


        Subsequent to year end, the Company has entered into a $30,000 limited recourse receivable purchase program with one of its lenders.  Under the program, the lender takes the receivable payment risk of the customer subject to usual and customary covenants, while the Company fulfills contractual obligations.  Funding of the purchased receivable is 80% of the face value, and the Company retains an interest in the remaining 20%, which is paid at collection.  


Note 8 – Long-Term Debt


Senior Secured Credit Facility

On July 2, 2009, the Company replaced its previous credit agreement by entering into a Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”), with a syndicate of banks that provided for a senior secured credit facility (the “Credit Facility”) of a three and one-quarter year $270,000 revolver (the “Revolver”) which initially accrued interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 2.50%.  The interest rate for the Revolver may increase or decrease according to a consolidated interest coverage ratio pricing matrix as defined in the Credit Agreement, plus an applicable percentage.  As of April 7, 2010, the Company increased the Revolver to $290,000.


First Amendment.  On August 24, 2009, the Company closed the First Amendment to the Credit Agreement which included allowing the issuance of up to an additional $100,000 of Senior Notes due 2016 within 90 days of the First Amendment Effective Date, amending the definition of Consolidated Total Senior Debt to exclude the Existing Senior Notes 2005, amending the definition of Applicable Percentage to clarify the effective date of the change in the Applicable Percentage and modifications to several schedules within the Credit Agreement.


Second Amendment.  On June 9, 2010, the Company closed the Second Amendment to the Credit Agreement, which included adding back the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act estimate of $19,450 to Consolidated Net Income for the period ended March 31, 2010 and increasing the Maximum Consolidated Leverage Ratio to 5.25 to 1.00 for the period ending September 30, 2010 and to 5.00 to 1.00 for the period ending March 31, 2011.  The Second Amendment also allowed a subsidiary of the Company to incur indebtedness of up to $25,000 after ceasing to be a wholly owned subsidiary, a guarantee by the Company of that indebtedness, the issuance of up to 30% equity interests in the subsidiary to officers, employees, directors, advisory boards and/or its third parties investors and allow certain restricted payments by the subsidiary.


Third Amendment.  On June 6, 2011, the Company closed the Third Amendment to the Credit Agreement.  See Note 21 “Subsequent Event” to the “Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements” for further information.

 

Financial Covenants.  Certain financial covenants and required financial ratios adjust over time in accordance with schedules in the Credit Agreement.  After giving effect to the Third Amendment to the Credit Agreement, the requirements of those covenants and financial ratios are as follows:  


·

a minimum consolidated interest coverage ratio of not less than 1.90 to 1.00 (1.65 for the quarters ending June and September 30, 2011 and 1.80 for the quarter ending December 31, 2011);


·

a maximum consolidated leverage ratio in an amount not more than a ratio specified for each fiscal quarter as set forth in a schedule, which ratio is 5.85 for the quarter ended March 31, 2011, peaks to 7.50 for the quarter ending September 30, 2011 and reduces to 4.75 by the quarter ending December 31, 2012 and thereafter;


·

a maximum consolidated total senior debt to working capital amount ratio of not more than 0.80 to 1.00; and


·

maximum annual capital expenditures of $55,000 during fiscal year ending March 31, 2012 and $40,000 during any fiscal year thereafter, in each case with a one-year carry-forward for capital expenditures in any fiscal year below the maximum amount.


          The Company continuously monitors its compliance with the covenants.  At March 31, 2011 and during the fiscal year, the Company was in compliance with the covenants (as revised by the Third Amendment for the fourth quarter).  The Company records all fees and third-party costs associated with the Credit Agreement, including amendments thereto, in accordance with accounting guidance for changes in line of credit or revolving debt arrangements.





- 54 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 8 – Long-Term Debt (continued)


Senior Notes

On July 2, 2009, the Company issued $570,000 of 10% Senior Notes due 2016 (the “Senior Notes”) at a price of 95.177% of the face value. On August 26, 2009, the Company issued an additional $100,000 tranche of 10% Senior Notes due 2016 at a price of 97.500% of the face value.  These additional notes form part of the same series as the Senior Notes issued on July 2, 2009. The Senior Notes are required to be guaranteed by any “material domestic subsidiaries” of the Company as defined in the indenture governing the Senior Notes.  The Company does not have a “material domestic subsidiary” at March 31, 2011.

           During fiscal 2011, the Company purchased $35,000 of these notes on the open market.  All purchased securities were cancelled leaving $635,000 of the 10% senior notes outstanding at March 31, 2011.  Associated cash premiums and other costs paid were $1,613.  Deferred financing costs and amortization of original issue discount of $2,040 were accelerated.


Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes

On July 2, 2009, the Company issued $100,000 of 5 ½% Convertible Senior Subordinated Notes due 2014 (the “Convertible Notes”).  The initial purchasers of the Convertible Notes were granted an option to purchase up to an additional $15,000 of Convertible Notes solely to cover over-allotments which was exercised on July 15, 2009.  Holders may surrender their Convertible Notes, in integral multiples of $1,000 principal amount, for conversion into shares of the Company’s common stock at the then-applicable conversion rate until the close of business on the second scheduled trading day immediately preceding the maturity date.  The initial conversion rate for the Convertible Notes is 198.8862 shares of common stock per $1,000 principal amount of Convertible Notes.  The conversion rate is subject to adjustments based on certain events as described in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes. In addition, holders of these notes have certain rights and entitlements upon the occurrence of certain fundamental changes (as defined in the indenture governing the Convertible Notes).


Other Senior Notes and Senior Subordinated Notes

The Company applied a portion of the net proceeds from the issuance of the Senior Notes and Convertible Notes to fund the purchase of $120,365 of its previously existing 8 ½% Senior Notes due 2012 and the purchase, defeasance and redemption of all of its previously existing 11% Senior Notes due 2012, 12 ¾% Senior Subordinated Notes due 2012, 9 % Senior Notes due 2011, 7 ¾% Senior Notes due 2013 and 8% Senior Notes due 2012, Series B pursuant to an early settlement of a cash tender offer.  

          As a result of the repurchase, defeasance and redemption of the notes that existed prior to the refinancing, the Company accelerated approximately $5,591 of deferred financing costs and $5,563 of amortization of original issue discount during the year ended March 31, 2010.

         During fiscal 2011, the Company purchased $23,635 of the remaining 8 ½% Senior Notes due 2012 on the open market.  All purchased securities were cancelled leaving $6,000 of the 8 ½% senior notes outstanding at March 31, 2011.  Associated cash premiums and other costs paid were $650.  Deferred financing costs and amortization of original issue discount of $282 were accelerated.


Convertible Note Hedge and Warrant Transactions

In connection with the offering of the Convertible Notes, the Company entered into privately negotiated convertible note hedge transactions with three counterparties (“hedge counterparties”) to cover, subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments, the number of shares of the Company’s common stock that initially underlie the Convertible Notes and expire on the last day that any Convertible Notes remain outstanding.  The Company also entered separately into privately negotiated warrant transactions relating to the same number of shares of the Company’s common stock with the hedge counterparties.  


Convertible Note Hedge and Warrant Transactions

         The convertible note hedge transactions are expected to reduce the potential dilution with respect to the common stock of the Company upon conversion of the Convertible Notes in the event that the value per share of common stock, as measured under the convertible note hedge transactions, during the applicable valuation period, is greater than the strike price of the convertible note hedge transactions, which corresponds to the $5.0280 per share initial conversion price of the Convertible Notes and is similarly subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments.  If, however, the price per share of the Company’s common stock, as measured under the warrants, exceeds the strike price of the warrant transactions during the applicable valuation period, there would be dilution from the issuance of common stock pursuant to the warrants.  The warrants have a strike price of $7.3325 per share, which is subject to customary anti-dilution adjustments and the maximum number of shares that could be issued under the warrant transactions is 45,743,836.  The warrants expire in daily installments commencing on October 15, 2014 and ending on April 8, 2015.  Both the convertible note hedge transactions and the warrant transactions require physical net-share settlement and are accounted for as equity instruments.



- 55 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 8 – Long-Term Debt (continued)


Foreign Seasonal Lines of Credit

The Company has typically financed its non-U.S. operations with uncommitted unsecured short-term seasonal lines of credit at the local level.  These operating lines are seasonal in nature, normally extending for a term of 180 to 270 days corresponding to the tobacco crop cycle in that location.  These facilities are typically uncommitted in that the lenders have the right to cease making loans and demand repayment of loans at any time.  These loans are typically renewed at the outset of each tobacco season.  As of March 31, 2011, the Company had approximately $231,407 drawn and outstanding on foreign seasonal lines with maximum capacity totaling $798,599 subject to limitations as provided for in the Credit Agreement.  Additionally, against these lines there was $13,981 available in unused letter of credit capacity with $4,859 issued but unfunded.


Dividends

Our senior credit agreement restricts our ability to pay dividends or make other distributions or restricted payments based upon our consolidated net income and consolidated net loss since April 1, 2008 and the amount of specified restricted investments we have made since that date.  In addition, we must be in compliance with all terms of the senior credit agreement, including the financial covenants, in order to pay dividends, repurchase common stock or make other distributions or restricted payments.  In addition, the indenture governing our senior notes contains similar restrictions and also prohibits the payment of dividends and other distributions if we fail to satisfy a ratio of consolidated EBITDA to fixed charges of at least 2.0 to 1.0.  At March 31, 2011, we did not satisfy this fixed charge coverage ratio.  We may from time to time not satisfy this ratio.


Summary of Debt

The carrying value and estimated fair value of the Company’s long-term debt are $885,155 and $905,330, respectively, as of March 31, 2011 and $789,337 and $845,642, respectively, as of March 31, 2010.

          The following table summarizes the Company’s debt financing as of March 31, 2011:


 

 

March 31, 2011

 

 

 

Outstanding

Lines and

 

 

 

 

March 31, 

March 31, 

Letters

Interest

 

Long Term Debt Repayment Schedule

 

2010       

2011       

Available

Rate

 

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Later

Senior secured credit facility:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Revolver (1)

$             - 

$    148,000 

$ 142,000 

3.1% 

(2)

$      - 

$ 148,000 

$        - 

$             - 

$      - 

$            - 

Senior notes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   10% senior notes due 2016 (4)

642,225 

611,756 

10.0% 

 

611,756 

   8 ½% senior notes due 2012

29,568 

6,000 

8.5% 

 

6,000 

   Other

 

 

 

671,793 

617,756 

 

 

6,000 

611,756 

5 ½% convertible senior    subordinated notes due 2014

115,000 

115,000 

5.5% 

 

115,000 

Other long-term debt

2,544 

4,399 

201 

8.0% 

(2)

784 

890 

1,269 

1,025 

137 

294 

Notes payable to banks (3)

188,981 

231,407 

553,211 

3.5% 

(2)

   Total debt

$ 978,318 

$ 1,116,562 

695,412 

 

 

$ 784 

$ 154,890 

$ 1,269 

$ 116,025 

$ 137 

$ 612,050 

Short term

$ 188,981 

$    231,407 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Long term:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Long term debt current

$        457 

$           784 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Long term debt

788,880 

884,371 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$ 789,337 

$    885,155 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Letters of credit

$     5,346 

$        4,859 

9,122 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   Total credit available

 

 

$ 704,534 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(1)  As of March 31, 2011, pursuant to Section 2.1 (A) (iv) of the Credit Agreement, the full Revolving Committed Amount was available based on the calculation of the lesser of the Revolving Committed Amount and the Working Capital Amount.

(2)  Weighted average rate for the twelve months ended March 31, 2011.

(3)  Primarily foreign seasonal lines of credit.

(4)  Repayment of $611,756 is net of original issue discount of $23,244.  Total repayment will be $635,000.  




ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 9 – Long-Term Leases


The Company has both capital and operating leases.  The operating leases are for land, buildings, automobiles and other equipment.  Rent expense for all operating leases was $16,400, $14,499 and $13,821 for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.  Capital leases are primarily for production machinery and equipment.  The capitalized lease obligations are payable through 2015.  Interest rates are imputed at 6.62% to 8.00%.  Amortization is included in depreciation expense.  Minimum future obligations and capitalized amounts are as follows:


 

Capital     
Leases     

Operating
Leases  

2012

$   70      

$   9,827   

2013

62      

6,184   

2014

67      

3,916   

2015

30      

3,502   

2016

-      

3,461   

Remaining

-      

9,327   

 

$ 229      

$  36,217   


Note 10 – Equity in Net Assets of Investee Companies


The Company has equity basis investments in companies located in Asia which purchase and process tobacco.  The Asia investees and ownership percentages are as follows:  Transcontinental Leaf Tobacco India Private Ltd. (India) 49%, Siam Tobacco Export Company (Thailand) 49%, Adams International Ltd. (Thailand) 49%.  Summarized financial information for these investees for fiscal years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 follows:


 

Years Ended March 31,

Operations Statement Information

2011

2010

2009

Sales

$  112,362     

$ 105,123     

$ 122,000     

Gross Profit

15,057     

14,947     

12,111     

Net Income

5,026     

3,994     

3,023     


 

March 31,

 

Balance Sheet Information

2011

2010

 

Current assets

$  74,468     

$   62,774     

 

Property, plant and equipment and other assets

35,811     

36,540     

 

Current liabilities

54,283     

47,914     

 

Long-term obligations and other liabilities

5,479     

5,910     

 

Interests of other shareholders

25,764     

23,200     

 

Company’s interest

24,753     

22,290     

 


Note 11 – Stock – Based Compensation


The Company expenses the fair value of grants of various stock-based compensation programs over the vesting period of the awards.  Awards granted are recognized as compensation expense based on the grant-date fair value estimated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.

          The table below summarizes certain data for the Company’s stock based compensation plans:


 

Year Ended March 31,

 

2011

2010

2009

Compensation Expense for all Stock Based
     Compensation Plans

$ 4,609        

$   448        

$ 5,417        

Tax (Expense) Benefits for Stock Based Compensation

$         -        

$ (748)       

$ 1,478        

Intrinsic Value of Stock Options Exercised

$      22        

$    59         

$         -        

Fair Value of Stock Options Vested

$    189        

$   908        

$ 1,337        




- 57 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 11 – Stock – Based Compensation (continued)


          The Company’s shareholders approved the 2007 Incentive Plan (the “2007 Plan”) at its Annual Meeting of Shareholders on August 16, 2007 and amended the plan at its Annual Meeting of Shareholders on August 6, 2009.  The 2007 Plan is an omnibus plan that provides the flexibility to grant a variety of equity awards including stock options, stock appreciation rights, stock awards, stock units, performance awards and incentive awards to officers, directors and employees of the Company.  A maximum of 8,300 shares may be granted under the plan as amended.  As of March 31, 2011, 11,134 equity awards have been granted, 3,197 equity awards have been cancelled and 747 vested under the 2007 Plan, leaving 363 shares available for future awards under the 2007 Plan.  Total equity awards outstanding are 8,245 inclusive of 7,190 awards granted and outstanding under the 2007 plan and 1,055 awards granted under prior plans.  Shares issued under both the 2007 plan and earlier plans are new shares which have been authorized and designated for award under the plans.  Individual types of awards are discussed in greater detail below.


Stock Option Awards

Stock options allow for the purchase of common stock at a price determined at the time the option is granted.  Stock options generally vest ratably over four years and generally expire after ten years.  The fair value of these options is determined at grant date using the Black-Scholes valuation model and includes estimates of forfeiture based on historical experience.  The fair value is then recognized as compensation expense ratably over the vesting term of the options.  There were 2,835 stock options granted during fiscal year 2011.  No stock options were granted during 2010 and 2009.

          Assumptions used to determine the fair value of options issued in 2011 include the following:


 

2011

Grant Price

$   3.97

Exercise Price

$   6.00

Expected Life in Years

6.50

Annualized Volatility

59.2%

Annual Dividend Rate

0.00%

Risk Free Rate

2.48%

Fair Value

$ 5,540


          A summary of option activity for stock options follows:


Options

Shares

Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price

Weighted
Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term (Years)

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Outstanding at March 31, 2008

3,155    

6.28       

 

 

    Exercised

-    

-       

 

 

    Forfeited

(364)   

6.47       

 

 

    Expired

(155)   

9.23       

 

 

Outstanding at March 31, 2009

2,636    

6.08       

 

 

    Exercised

(30)   

3.26       

 

 

    Forfeited

(173)   

6.46       

 

 

    Expired

(276)   

4.89       

 

 

Outstanding at March 31, 2010

2,157    

6.24       

 

 

    Granted

2,835    

6.00       

 

 

    Exercised

(35)   

2.98       

 

 

    Forfeited

(433)   

6.91       

 

 

    Expired

-    

-       

 

 

Outstanding at March 31, 2011

4,524    

6.05       

7.92       

35       

Vested and expected to vest at March 31, 2011

4,370    

6.05       

7.85       

35       

Exercisable at March 31, 2011

1,541    

6.01       

4.27       

35       





- 58 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 11 – Stock – Based Compensation (continued)


Stock Option Awards (continued)

          The intrinsic values in the table above represent the total pre-tax intrinsic value which is the difference between the Company’s closing stock price and the exercise price multiplied by the number of options.  The expense related to stock option awards for 2011, 2010, and 2009 was $2,874, $1,090, and $1,320, respectively.  Options exercised in 2011 and 2010 were purchased by the tender of existing shares of option holders.  There were no options exercised in 2009.

          The table below shows the movement in unvested options from March 31, 2010 to March 31, 2011.


 

 

Shares

 

Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair
Value

 

Aggregate
Grant Date
Fair Value

Unvested March 31, 2010

 

510    

 

3.81          

 

$ 1,941       

Granted

 

2,835    

 

1.95          

 

5,540       

Forfeited

 

(283)   

 

4.06          

 

(1,149)      

Vested

 

(79)   

 

2.39          

 

(189)      

Unvested March 31, 2011

 

2,983    

 

2.06          

 

$ 6,143       


          As of March 31, 2011, there is $3,623 of unearned compensation, net of expected forfeitures, related to stock option awards which will vest over a weighted average remaining life of 3.8 years.


Restricted Stock

Restricted stock is common stock that is both nontransferable and forfeitable unless and until certain conditions are satisfied.  The fair value of restricted shares is determined on grant date and is amortized over the vesting period which is generally three years.


 

Restricted Stock

Shares

Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2008

690        

5.58                

 

 

Granted

146        

4.47                

 

 

Vested

(316)       

5.57                

 

 

Forfeited

(26)       

5.61                

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2009

494        

5.26                

 

 

Granted

192        

4.25                

 

 

Vested

(271)       

4.13                

 

 

Forfeited

(17)       

5.95                

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2010

398        

5.51                

 

 

Granted

143        

3.34                

 

 

Vested

(258)       

6.08                

 

 

Forfeited

(27)       

5.06                

 

 

Restricted at March 31, 2011

256        

3.77                

 


          As of March 31, 2011, there was $318 of remaining unamortized deferred compensation associated with restricted stock awards that will be expensed over the remaining service period through August 6, 2012.  Expense recognized due to the vesting of restricted stock awards was $559, $824 and $1,230 for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.






- 59 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 11 – Stock – Based Compensation (continued)


Restricted Stock Units

Restricted stock units differ from restricted stock in that no shares are issued until restrictions lapse.  Certain restricted stock units vest at the end of a three-year service period and others vest ratably over a three year period.  The fair value of the restricted stock units is determined on the grant date and is amortized over the vesting period.


 

Restricted Stock Units

Shares

Weighted Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2008

-        

-                 

 

 

Granted

99        

4.47                 

 

 

Forfeited

(7)       

4.47                 

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2009

92        

4.47                 

 

 

Granted

106        

4.26                 

 

 

Forfeited

(10)       

4.39                 

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2010

188        

4.36                 

 

 

Granted

959        

4.57                 

 

 

Vested

(5)       

4.59                 

 

 

Forfeited

(253)       

4.58                 

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2011

889        

4.53                 

 


          As of March 31, 2011, there was $2,889 of remaining unamortized deferred compensation associated with these restricted stock units that will be expensed over the remaining service period through February 9, 2014.  Expense recognized due to the vesting of these awards was $829, $236 and $91 during the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009 respectively.


Performance Shares

This award differs from restricted stock in that no shares are issued unless and until both service and performance conditions are met.  These shares will vest at the end of a two-year performance period but the level of the awards to be earned at the end of the performance period is contingent upon attainment of specific business performance goals.  If certain minimum performance levels are not attained, compensation earned under these awards will be zero.  Alternatively, if the maximum performance goals described by the plan are attained, the awards will be 150% of the plan’s target.  The table below includes the maximum number of shares that may be earned under the plan.  


 

Performance Shares

Shares

Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair Value

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2008

-        

-                

 

 

Granted

1,197        

4.47                

 

 

Forfeited

(9)       

4.47                

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2009

1,188        

4.47                

 

 

Granted

1,782        

4.19                

 

 

Forfeited

(203)       

4.36                

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2010

2,767        

4.30                

 

 

Granted

-        

-                

 

 

Vested

(291)       

4.47                

 

 

Forfeited

(496)       

4.02                

 

 

Shares not vesting due to Performance

(803)       

4.47                

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2011

1,177        

4.26                

 


         As of March 31, 2011, the Company anticipates that none of the performance shares will vest.  However, as of March 31, 2011, there was $5,016 of maximum remaining unamortized deferred compensation associated with these awards that could be earned during the service period through March 31, 2012.  Expense (income) recognized due to the expected vesting of this type of award was $163, $(1,514) and $2,656 for the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.



- 60 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 11 – Stock – Based Compensation (continued)


Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units

Restricted stock units vest at the end of either a two or three year performance period but the level of the award to vest is subject to similar performance criteria as the Performance Shares described above.  The awards are also variable in that they range from zero to 200% of the plan’s target contingent on the performance level attained. The table below includes the maximum number of restricted stock units that may be earned under the plan.


 

Performance-Based
Restricted Stock Units

Shares

Weighted Average
Grant Date Fair Value

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2008

-        

-                

 

 

Granted

150        

4.47                

 

 

Forfeited

-        

-                

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2009

150        

4.47                

 

 

Granted

-        

-                

 

 

Forfeited

-        

-                

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2010

150        

4.47                

 

 

Granted

2,097        

4.56                

 

 

Vested

(40)       

4.47                

 

 

Forfeited

(698)       

4.59                

 

 

Shares not vesting due to Performance

(110)       

4.47                

 

 

Outstanding as of March 31, 2011

1,399        

4.55                

 


         As of March 31, 2011, the Company anticipates that 231 of the performance-based restricted stock units will vest.  There is $6,201 remaining unamortized deferred compensation associated with the 1,399 restricted stock units that could potentially vest through March 31, 2013.  Expense (income) recognized due to the expected vesting of these awards were $184, $(179) and $335 during the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, respectively.


Note 12 – Income Taxes


Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes

As of March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009, the Company’s unrecognized tax benefits totaled $9,019, $9,004 and $20,129, respectively, all of which would impact the Company’s effective tax rate if recognized.  The following table presents the changes to unrecognized tax benefits during the years ended March 31, 2011, 2010 and 2009:


 

2011         

2010         

2009         

Balance at April 1

$ 9,004        

$ 20,129        

$ 18,557        

Increase for current year tax positions

3,500        

2,292        

2,075        

Increases (reductions) for prior year tax positions

5,539        

(1,698)       

3,062        

Impact of changes in exchange rates

(63)       

3,664        

(3,565)       

Reduction for settlements

(8,961)       

(15,383)       

-         

Balance at March 31

$ 9,019        

$   9,004        

$ 20,129        


         The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense.  During the years ended March 31, 2011 and 2010, the Company accrued an additional $2,446 and $11,487, respectively, of interest, penalties and related exchange losses related to unrecognized tax benefits.  During the year ending March 31, 2011, the Company reduced its accrued interest and penalties for $803 related to settlements and for $3,594 related to the expiration of statute of limitations.  As of March 31, 2011, accrued interest and penalties totaled $7,780 and $1,434, respectively.  As of March 31, 2010, accrued interest and penalties totaled $7,933 and $3,231, respectively.

         During the fiscal year ending March 31, 2011, the Company’s total liability for unrecognized tax benefits, including the related interest and penalties, decreased from $20,168 to $18,233.  The decrease relates to settlements of approximately $9,763, expiration of statute of limitations of approximately $6,013, and increases related to current period activity of approximately $13,840.  

         The Company expects to continue accruing interest expenses related to the remaining unrecognized tax benefits.  Additionally, the Company may be subject to fluctuations in the unrecognized tax liability due to currency exchange rate movements.



- 61 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 12 – Income Taxes (continued)


Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (continued)

         Other than the expiration of an applicable statute of limitations pertaining to an international unrecognized tax benefit for the amount of $125, interest of $73 and penalties $94, the Company does not foresee any reasonably possible changes in the unrecognized tax benefits in the next twelve months but must acknowledge circumstances can change due to unexpected developments in the law.  In certain jurisdictions, tax authorities have challenged positions that the Company has taken that resulted in recognizing benefits that are material to its financial statements.  The Company believes it is more likely than not that it will prevail in these situations and accordingly have not recorded liabilities for these positions.  The Company expects the challenged positions to be settled at a time greater than twelve months from its balance sheet date.

         The Company and its subsidiaries file a U.S. federal consolidated income tax return as well as returns in several U.S. states and a number of foreign jurisdictions.  As of March 31, 2011, the Company’s earliest open tax year for U.S. federal income tax purposes was its fiscal year ended March 31, 2008.  Open tax years in state and foreign jurisdictions generally range from three to six years.


Income Tax Provision

The components of income (loss) before income taxes, equity in net income of investee companies, minority interests and discontinued operations consisted of the following:


 

Years Ended March 31,

 

2011

2010

2009

U.S.

$  (51,092)        

$ (43,645)        

$   25,176        

Non-U.S.

83,941         

117,837         

84,156        

Total.

$  32,849         

$   74,192         

$ 109,332       


         The details of the amount shown for income taxes in the Statements of Consolidated Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) follow:


 

Years Ended March 31,

 

2011

2010

2009

Current

 

 

 

Federal

$         472   

$           -   

$            -    

State

-   

(7,509)  

2,469   

Non-U.S.

7,346   

6,173   

22,844   

 

$      7,818   

$  (1,336)  

$   25,313   

Deferred

 

 

 

Federal

$    97,311   

$  (9,271)  

$ (23,586)  

State

631   

(631)  

(682)  

Non-U.S.

1,700   

7,447   

(23,065)  

 

$    99,642   

$  (2,455)  

$ (47,333)  

Total

$  107,460   

$  (3,791)  

$ (22,020)  


         The reasons for the difference between income tax expense based on income before income taxes, equity in net income of investee companies and minority interests and the amount computed by applying the U.S. statutory federal income tax rate to such income are as follows:


 

Years Ended March 31,

 

2011      

2010      

2009      

Tax expense at U.S. statutory rate

$   11,497   

$ 25,967   

$   38,266   

Effect of non-U.S. income taxes

(7,322)  

(16,309)  

(16,457)  

Goodwill amortization

(4,640)  

(8,374)  

(8,245)  

Change in valuation allowance

111,679   

(3,345)  

(31,295)  

Increase (decrease) in reserves for uncertain tax positions

4,489   

(8,060)  

3,369   

Exchange effects and currency translation

(7,120)  

5,680   

(10,370)  

Permanent items

(1,123)  

650   

2,712   

Actual tax expense (benefit)

$ 107,460   

$ (3,791)  

$ (22,020)  




ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)


NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)


Note 12 – Income Taxes (continued)


Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (continued)

          The deferred tax liabilities (assets) are comprised of the following:


 

March 31,

March 31,

 

2011   

2010   

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

     Intangible assets

$     9,044 

$       9,685 

     Fixed assets

9,135 

11,137 

Total deferred tax liabilities

$   18,179 

$     20,822 

 

 

 

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

     Reserves and accruals

$  (77,746)

$    (60,678)

     Tax credits

(48,659)

(55,842)

     Tax loss carryforwards

(63,228)

(44,312)

     Derivative transactions

(12,760)

(14,984)

     Postretirement and other benefits

(29,786)

(29,444)

     Other

(752)

(18,915)

Gross deferred tax assets

(232,931)

(224,175)

Valuation allowance

138,787 

27,502 

Total deferred tax assets

$  (94,144)

$  (196,673)

Net deferred tax asset

$  (75,965)

$  (175,851)


          The following table presents the breakdown between current and non-current (assets) liabilities:


 

March 31,
2011  

March 31,
2010  

Current asset

$    (3,955) 

$   (37,209) 

Current liability

6,881  

5,930  

Non-current asset

(82,707) 

(148,971) 

Non-current liability

3,816  

4,399  

Net deferred tax asset

$  (75,965) 

$ (175,851) 


        The current portion of deferred tax liability is included in income taxes.

         During the year ended March 31, 2011, the net deferred tax asset balance decreased by  $245 for certain adjustments not included in the deferred tax expense (benefit), primarily for deferred tax assets related to pension accruals recorded in equity as part of Other Comprehensive Income.

           For the year ended March 31, 2011, the valuation allowance increased by $111,285.  The valuation allowance increased primarily due to changes in management’s judgment concerning the need for valuation allowances related to deferred tax assets for future deductible temporary differences and tax attribute carryovers in the U.S. Recent years’ cumulative losses incurred in the U.S. as of March 31, 2011, combined with the effects of certain changes in the market, provide significant objective negative evidence in the evaluation of whether the U.S. entity will generate sufficient taxable income to realize the tax benefits of the deferred tax assets.  This negative evidence carries greater weight than the more subjective positive evidence of favorable future projected income in the assessment of whether realization of the tax benefits of the deferred tax assets is more likely than not.  Therefore, based on the weight of presently objectively verifiable positive and negative evidence, it is management’s judgment that realization of the tax benefits of the deferred tax assets is less than more likely than not.  

         At March 31, 2011, the Company has U.S federal tax loss carryovers of $83,359, non-U.S. tax loss carryovers of $81,192, and U.S. state tax loss carryovers of $243,946.  Of the non-U.S. tax loss carryovers, $50,182 will expire within the next five years, $2,120 will expire in later years, and $28,890 can be carried forward indefinitely.  Of the U.S. state tax loss carryovers, $23,781 will expire within the next five years and $220,165 will expire thereafter.  At March 31, 2011, the Company has foreign tax credit carryovers in the U.S. of $44,847 that expire in 2016.






- 63 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)

 

Note 12 – Income Taxes (continued)


Income Tax Provision (continued)

         Realization of deferred tax assets is dependent on generating sufficient taxable income prior to expiration of the loss carryovers.  Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that all of the deferred tax assets, net of applicable valuation allowances, will be realized.  The amount of the deferred tax assets considered realizable could be reduced or increased if estimates of future taxable income change during the carryover period.

           No provision has been made for U.S. or foreign taxes that may result from future remittances of approximately $226,971 at March 31, 2011 and $177,899 at March 31, 2010 of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries because management expects that such earnings will be reinvested overseas indefinitely.  Determination of the amount of any unrecognized deferred income tax liability on these unremitted earnings is not practicable.


Note 13 – Employee Benefits


Retirement Benefits

The Company has multiple benefit plans at several locations.  The Company has a defined benefit plan that provides retirement benefits for substantially all U.S. salaried personnel based on years of service rendered, age and compensation.  The Company also maintains various other Excess Benefit and Supplemental Plans that provide additional benefits to (1) certain individuals whose compensation and the resulting benefits that would have actually been paid are limited by regulations imposed by the Internal Revenue Code and (2) certain individuals in key positions.  In addition, a Supplemental Retirement Account Plan (SRAP), a defined contribution program, is maintained.

         The Company’s policy is to contribute amounts to the plans sufficient to meet or exceed funding requirements of local governmental rules and regulations.

         Additional non-U.S. plans sponsored by certain subsidiaries cover substantially all of the full-time employees located in Germany, Turkey, Malawi and United Kingdom.

         The Company experienced special termination costs in connection with its restructuring activities, which have been recorded in restructuring charges.  

         A reconciliation of benefit obligations, plan assets and funded status of the plans at March 31, 2011 and 2010, the measurement dates, is as follows:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2011    

2010    

 

2011   

2010   

Change in Benefit Obligation

 

 

 

 

 

 

Benefit obligation, beginning

$  92,258  

$  75,142  

 

$  64,237  

$  57,085  

 

Service cost

2,113  

1,666  

 

1,108  

1,969  

 

Interest cost

4,879  

5,352  

 

3,951  

3,784  

 

Actuarial losses

2,786  

16,018  

 

2,431  

3,883  

 

Settlements/special termination benefits

259  

-  

 

204  

11  

 

Effects of currency translation

-  

-  

 

1,895  

1,300  

 

Net transfers in

324  

-  

 

-  

-  

 

Benefits paid

(6,386) 

(5,920) 

 

(5,954) 

(3,795) 

 

Benefit obligation, ending

$  96,233  

$  92,258  

 

$  67,872  

$  64,237  

 

 

 

 

 

 

Change in Plan Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fair value of plan assets, beginning

$  41,867  

$  35,680  

 

$  36,839  

$  27,122  

 

Actual return on plan assets

4,120  

8,142  

 

3,737  

8,898  

 

Employer contributions

5,655  

3,965  

 

6,038  

4,022  

 

Plan settlements

-  

-  

 

(358) 

-  

 

Effects of currency translation

-  

-  

 

1,252  

592  

 

Benefits paid

(6,386) 

(5,920) 

 

(5,954) 

(3,795) 

 

Fair value of plan assets, ending

$  45,256  

$  41,867  

 

$  41,554  

$  36,839  

 

Net amount recognized

$ (50,977) 

$ (50,391) 

 

$ (26,318) 

$ (27,398) 





- 64 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)

 

Note 13 – Employee Benefits (continued)


Retirement Benefits (continued)


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2011    

2010    

 

2011    

2010    

Amounts Recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet Consist of:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Noncurrent benefit asset recorded in Other Noncurrent Assets

$            -  

$           -   

 

$    1,353  

$        167  

 

Accrued current benefit liability recorded in Accrued Expenses     and Other Current Liabilities

(2,756) 

(2,735) 

 

(3,155) 

(2,829) 

 

Accrued noncurrent benefit liability recorded in Pension,     Postretirement and Other Long-Term Liabilities

(48,221) 

(47,656) 

 

(24,516) 

(24,736) 

           Net amount recognized

$ (50,977) 

$ (50,391) 

 

$ (26,318) 

$ (27,398) 


          The pension obligations for all defined benefit pension plans:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2011    

2010    

 

2011    

2010   

Information for Pension Plans with Accumulated Benefit

 

 

 

 

 

   Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Projected benefit obligation

$  96,233 

$ 92,258 

 

$  49,562 

$ 46,295 

 

Accumulated benefit obligation

93,798 

89,645 

 

45,841 

42,613 

 

Fair value of plan assets

45,256 

41,867 

 

21,891 

18,731 


          Net periodic pension costs included the following components:


 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2011   

2010   

2009   

 

2011   

2010   

2009   

Service cost

$  2,113 

$ 1,666 

$ 1,912 

 

$  1,108 

$ 1,969 

$ 2,549 

Interest cost

4,879 

5,352 

5,029 

 

3,951 

3,784 

3,836 

Expected return on plan assets

(3,190)

(2,730)

(3,410)

 

(2,567)

(1,824)

(2,848)

Amortization of actuarial (gains) losses

1,066 

(634)

(398)

 

276 

639 

56 

Amortization of prior service (credit) cost

(194)

(308)

 

19 

19 

16 

Special termination benefits

259 

122 

 

1,012 

11 

Effects of settlement

 

(56) 

(17)

(35)

Net periodic pension cost

$  5,131 

$ 3,460 

$ 2,947 

 

$  3,743 

$ 4,581 

$ 3,574 





- 65 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)

 

Note 13 – Employee Benefits (continued)


Retirement Benefits (continued)


          The amounts showing in other comprehensive income at March 31, 2011, March 31, 2010 and movements for the year were as follows:


 

 

U.S. and Non-U.S.
Pension

 

U.S. and Non-U.S.
Post-retirement

 

Total

Prior service credit (cost)

 

$    (1,067)           

 

$    8,103             

 

$     7,036             

Net actuarial losses

 

(28,920)           

 

(6,237)            

 

(35,157)            

Deferred taxes

 

11,176            

 

(693)            

 

10,483             

   Balance at March 31, 2010

 

$  (18,811)           

 

$    1,173             

 

$ (17,638)            

Prior service credit (cost)

 

$           26            

 

$   (1,605)           

 

$   (1,579)            

Net actuarial (losses) income

 

(1,712)           

 

528             

 

(1,184)            

Deferred taxes

 

(49)           

 

23             

 

(26)            

   Total change for 2011

 

$    (1,735)           

 

$     (1,054)            

 

$   (2,789)            

Prior service credit (cost)

 

$    (1,041)           

 

$    6,498             

 

$     5,457             

Net actuarial losses

 

(30,632)           

 

(5,709)            

 

(36,341)            

Deferred taxes

 

11,127            

 

(670)            

 

10,457             

   Balance at March 31, 2011

 

$  (20,546)           

 

$       119             

 

$ (20,427)            


          The following weighted average assumptions were used to determine the expense for the pension, postretirement, other postemployment, and employee savings plans as follows:



U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2011

2010

2009

 

2011

2010

2009

Discount rate

5.50%

7.50%

6.30%

 

6.35%

6.69%

6.67%

Rate of increase in future compensation

5.00%

5.00%

5.00%

 

5.02%

5.08%

4.87%

Expected long-term rate of return on
   plan assets

8.00%

8.00%

8.00%

 

6.85%

6.40%

7.50%


          In order to project the long-term investment return for the total portfolio, estimates are prepared for the total return of each major asset class over the subsequent 10-year period, or longer. Those estimates are based on a combination of factors including the current market interest rates and valuation levels, consensus earnings expectations and historical long-term risk premiums. To determine the aggregate return for the pension trust, the projected return of each individual asset class is then weighted according to the allocation to that investment area in the trust’s long-term asset allocation policy.

          A March 31 measurement date is used for the pension, postretirement, other postemployment and employee savings plans. The expected long-term rate of return on assets was determined based upon historical investment performance, current asset allocation, and estimates of future investment performance by asset class.  

          The following assumptions were used to determine the benefit obligations disclosed for the pension, postretirement, other postemployment and employee savings plans at March 31, 2011 and 2010:



U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

2011

2010

 

2011

2010

Discount rate

5.19%

5.50%

 

6.10%

6.35%

Rate of increase in future compensation

4.00%

5.00%

 

4.96%

5.02%


         Net gain (loss) and prior service credits (costs) for the combined U.S. and non-U.S. pension plans expected to be amortized from accumulated comprehensive income into net periodic benefit cost during fiscal 2012 is ($1,259) and ($107), respectively.  




- 66 -






ITEM 8.    FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA (continued)

 

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued)

Alliance One International, Inc. and Subsidiaries

(in thousands)

 

Note 13 – Employee Benefits (continued)


Plan Assets

The Company’s asset allocations and the percentage of the fair value of plan assets at March 31, 2011 and 2010 by asset category are as follows:


 

Target Allocations

 

U.S. Plans

 

Non-U.S. Plans

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

 

March 31,

(percentages)

2011              

 

2011    

2010    

 

2011     

2010     

Asset Category:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

2.0%           

 

2.9%  

2.8%  

 

1.0%  

0.9%  

Equity securities

54.0              

 

57.3     

60.5     

 

62.0     

62.7     

Debt securities

25.0              

 

23.1     

26.9     

 

25.0     

24.1     

Real estate and other investments

19.0              

 

16.7     

9.8     

 

12.0     

12.3     

Total

100.0%           

 

100.0%  

100.0%  

 

100.0%  

100.0%  


          The Company’s investment objectives are to generate consistent total investment return to pay anticipated plan benefits, while minimizing long-term costs.  Financial objectives underlying this policy include maintaining plan contributions at a reasonable level relative to benefits provided and assuring that unfunded obligations do not grow to a level to adversely affect the Company’s financial health.  Manager performance is measured against investment objectives and objective benchmarks, including:  Salomon 90 Day Treasury Bill, Barclays Intermediate Govt. Credit, Barclays Aggregate Index, Russell 1000 Value, Russell 1000 Growth, Russell 2500 Value, Russell 2000 Growth, and MSCI EAFE.  The Portfolio Objective is to exceed the actuarial return on assets assumption.  Management regularly reviews portfolio allocations and periodically rebalances the portfolio to the targeted allocations when considered appropriate.  Equity securities do not include the Company’s common stock.  Our diversification and risk control processes serve to minimize the concentration of risk. There are no significant concentrations of risk, in terms of sector, industry, geography or companies.


The fair values for the pension plans by asset category are as follows:


U.S. Pension Plans

March 31, 2011

 

Total

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents

$    1,327       

 

$       48       

 

$ 1,279    

 

$          -       

U.S. equities

12,933       

 

12,933       

 

-    

 

-       

International equities

12,911       

 

12,911       

 

-    

 

-       

U.S. fixed income funds

7,966       

 

7,966       

 

-    

 

-       

International fixed income funds

2,523       

 

2,523       

 

-    

 

-       

Other investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

      Diversified funds

3,803       

 

3,298       

 

-    

 

505       

      Real estate

3,793       

 

-       

 

-    

 

3,793       

Total

$  45,256       

 

$ 39,679       

 

$ 1,279    

 

$  4,298       


U.S. Pension Plans

March 31, 2010

 

Total

 

Level 1

 

Level 2

 

Level 3

Cash and cash equivalents

$    1,154       

 

$           -      

 

$  1,154    

 

$        -       

U.S. equities

12,960       

 

12,960      

 

-    

 

-       

International equities

12,374       

 

12,374      

 

-    

 

-     &n