Uncategorized

Identive Group (INVE) Announces Fourth Quarter 2009 and Year End Results

Press Release Source: SCM Microsystems, Inc. On Friday March 5, 2010, 2:30 am EST

SANTA ANA, Calif. and ISMANING, Germany, March 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — SCM Microsystems, Inc. d.b.a. Identive Group (Nasdaq: INVE; Frankfurt Stock Exchange: INV), a provider of products, services and solutions for the security, identification and RFID industries, today announced final results for its 2009 fiscal fourth quarter (Q4) and year (FY).

Q4 2009 Results

On April 30, 2009, the Company completed its merger with Hirsch Electronics Corporation, and the Company’s financial results have included operating results for the Hirsch subsidiary since the date of acquisition. All figures are reported in accordance with U.S. GAAP.

Revenue in Q4 2009 was $11.9 million, in line with the estimate provided on January 21, 2010 and up 32% from $9.0 million in Q4 2008. The increase in Q4 2009 revenues was due to the inclusion of revenue from the Hirsch business unit, partially offset by lower revenues from the SCM smart card reader and digital media reader businesses.

Gross profit margin was 37% in Q4 2009, compared with 46% in the Q4 2008, as a result of a $0.8 million write-off of inventory related to terminals for the stalled German eHealth program, as the government authorities in Germany have indefinitely halted broad implementation of the project.

Operating expenses were $11.3 million in Q4 2009, up 111% from $5.4 million in Q4 2008. The increase primarily was due to the inclusion of operating expenses relating to the Hirsch business, as well as $1.3 million in transaction costs primarily related to the acquisition of Bluehill ID, which were above the estimate of $1.0 million provided on January 21, 2010. Operating loss was $(6.9) million in Q4 2009, compared with operating loss of $(1.2) million in Q4 2008.

Loss from continuing operations in Q4 2009 was $(8.5) million, or $(0.34) per share, compared with loss from continuing operations of $(3.7) million, or $(0.23) per share in Q4 2008. Included in Q4 2009 is a $1.4 million impairment charge related to the write off of equity investments related to the Company’s investment in TranZfinity, Inc. and a related impairment charge of $0.6 million for the exclusivity fees paid to TranZfinity, which was recorded as an intangible asset in the consolidated balance sheet.

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of Q4 2009 were $4.8 million, down from $6.2 million at the end of the previous quarter.

FY 2009 Full Year Results

Total revenue was $41.3 million in FY 2009, in line with the estimate provided January 21, 2010 and up 46% compared with $28.4 million in FY 2008. The increase in FY 2009 revenues was due to the inclusion of eight months of revenue from the Hirsch business unit, partially offset by lower revenues from the SCM smart card reader and digital media reader businesses.

Gross profit margin in FY 2009 was 45% of revenue, compared to gross profit margin of 44% in FY 2008. During FY 2009, gross profit margin was positively impacted by the inclusion of sales of higher-margin Hirsch products in the second, third and fourth quarters, offset by the Q4 2009 inventory write-off described above.

Operating expenses were $32.0 million in FY 2009, up 59% compared with operating expenses of $20.1 million in FY 2008, primarily due to transaction costs and the addition of eight months of expenses for the Hirsch business in FY 2009. Operating loss was $(13.5) million in FY 2009, compared with ($7.6) million in FY 2008.

The Company reported a loss from continuing operations in FY 2009 of $(14.6) million, compared with a loss from continuing operations of $(10.5) million in FY 2008.

“The 2009 merger with Hirsch Electronics was a true transformation for SCM, moving the Company into a leadership position in the area of convergence of physical and logical access control. With the January 2010 business combination with Bluehill ID, we now have the critical components with which to begin to build the signature company in the secure ID market,” said Ayman S. Ashour, CEO and Chairman of Identive. “Our focus now is on vigorous cost reduction to bring down the inflated overhead costs of the Company and to stabilize our financial base. Going forward, we aim to capitalize on our unique position in the market with strong organic growth and continued execution of our acquisition strategy in a more economic manner that reduces the historically high transaction costs. Ultimately, the executive management and the Board are committed to completing the transformation of the company into profit driven growth that delivers value to our stakeholders.”

About Identive Group

Identive Group (Nasdaq: INVE; Frankfurt Stock Exchange: INV) is an international technology group focused on building the world’s signature company in secure identification-based technologies. Through its group of recognized brands, Identive provides leading-edge products and solutions in the areas of physical and logical access control, identity management and RFID systems to governments, commercial and industrial enterprises and consumers. The organization’s growth model is based on a combination of disciplined acquisitive development and strong technology-driven organic growth from its member companies. For additional info visit: www.identive-group.com

NOTE: This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These include, without limitation, the statements by Ayman S. Ashour, including statements about our focus on cost reduction to reduce our expense overhead, reducing the transaction costs of acquisitions, achieving strong organic growth, achieving profit driven growth and building the signature company in secure ID. These statements are based on current expectations or beliefs, as well as a number of assumptions about future events that are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated herein. Our financial results may not meet expectations, we may not become profitable and we may not be successful in our strategy of pursuing both organic and acquisitive growth. Readers should not unduly rely on these forward-looking statements, which are not a guarantee of future performance and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are outside our control, that could cause our actual business and operating results to differ, including, but not limited to, our ability to successfully integrate the Bluehill ID business into ours; our ability to effect significant reductions in our expense base; we may not be able to reduce the transaction costs associated with mergers and acquisitions; our ability to grow the Company based on a strategy of providing products, components and services for the identification systems value chain; our ability to complete additional acquisitions that add to the value of our Company; our ability to complete transactions for mergers and acquisitions at a lower cost than in the past; our ability to grow market share and revenues based on participation in early stage markets for contactless products; our ability to successfully develop and introduce new products that satisfy the evolving and increasingly complex requirements of customers; the markets in which we participate or target may not grow, converge or standardize at anticipated rates or at all, including the identification and identity markets that we are targeting; and we may not successfully compete in the markets in which we participate or target. For a discussion of further risks and uncertainties related to our business, please refer to our public company reports, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and subsequent reports filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

All trade names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders.

– FINANCIALS FOLLOW –

                   SCM MICROSYSTEMS, INC. d.b.a. IDENTIVE GROUP
                 Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
                     (In thousands, except per share data)
                                  (unaudited)

                                      Three months ended  Twelve months ended
                                          December 31,       December 31,
                                          ------------       ------------
                                         2009     2008      2009      2008
                                         ----     ----      ----      ----
    Revenues                           $11,865   $8,985   $41,315   $28,362
    Cost of revenues                     7,432    4,856    22,804    15,817
                                         -----    -----    ------    ------
         Gross profit                    4,433    4,129    18,511    12,545
                                         -----    -----    ------    ------
    Operating expenses:
      Research and development           1,286      844     5,062     3,902
      Sales and marketing                4,949    2,611    15,584     9,620
      General and administrative         4,426    3,356    12,091     8,075
      Impairment of intangibles            647        -       647         -
      Gain on sale of assets                 -   (1,455)   (1,417)   (1,455)
                                           ---   ------    ------    ------
         Total operating expenses       11,308    5,356    31,967    20,142
                                        ------    -----    ------    ------
         Income (loss) from operations  (6,875)  (1,227)  (13,456)   (7,597)
    Loss and impairment on equity
     investments                        (1,449)    (256)   (2,244)     (256)
    Interest and other, net               (406)  (1,588)     (411)   (1,881)
                                          ----   ------      ----    ------
         Loss from continuing operations
          before income taxes           (8,730)  (3,071)  (16,111)   (9,734)
    Benefit (provision) for income
     taxes                                 242     (601)    1,549      (752)
                                           ---     ----     -----      ----
          Loss from continuing
           operations                   (8,488)  (3,672)  (14,562)  (10,486)
          Gain (loss) from
           discontinued operations          36     (486)      226      (213)
          Gain (loss) on sale of
           discontinued operations          41       36       157       589
                                           ---      ---       ---       ---
          Net loss                     $(8,411) $(4,122) $(14,179) $(10,110)
                                       =======  =======  ========  ========
    Loss per share from continuing
     operations:
       Basic and diluted                $(0.34)  $(0.23)   $(0.66)   $(0.66)
    Gain (loss) per share from
     discontinued operations:
       Basic and diluted                 $0.00   $(0.03)    $0.02     $0.02
                                         -----   ------     -----     -----
    Net loss per share:
       Basic and diluted                $(0.34)  $(0.26)   $(0.64)   $(0.64)
                                        ------   ------    ------    ------
    Shares used in computing loss
     per share:
       Basic and diluted                25,135   15,744    22,013    15,743
       -----------------                ------   ------    ------    ------

    Note: Financial results contained in this release reflect continuing
    operations of the Company's Security and Identity Products and Digital
    Media and Connectivity businesses only. The Company completed the sale of
    its Digital TV solutions business in May 2006; therefore, financial
    results for the Digital TV solutions business are being accounted for as
    discontinued operations.
                    SCM MICROSYSTEMS, INC. d.b.a. IDENTIVE GROUP
                        Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
                                   (in thousands)

                                                   December 31, December 31,
    ASSETS                                            2009         2008
    ------                                            ----         ----
    Current assets:
      Cash and cash equivalents                      $4,836      $20,550
      Accounts receivable, net                        6,739        8,665
      Inventories, net                                5,379        5,065
      Other current assets                            1,921        1,139
                                                      -----        -----
        Total current assets                         18,875       35,419

    Equity investments                                    -        2,244
    Property, equipment and other assets, net         1,719        3,168
    Goodwill                                         21,895            -
    Intangibles, net                                 22,082          307
                                                     ------          ---
        Total assets                                $64,571      $41,138
                                                    =======      =======

    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
    ------------------------------------
    Current liabilities:
      Accounts payable                               $5,530       $3,555
      Accrued expenses and other current liabilities  9,231        7,933
                                                      -----        -----
        Total current liabilities                    14,761       11,488
    Long-term income taxes payable                      456          184
    Long-term liabilities to related parties          7,899            -
    Deferred tax liability                            3,515        1,340

    Stockholders' equity                             37,940       28,126
                                                     ------       ------
          Total liabilities and stockholders'
           equity                                   $64,571      $41,138
                                                    =======      =======
Friday, March 5th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Identive Group (INVE) Announces Fourth Quarter 2009 and Year End Results

ATS Corporation (ATSC) Announces New Contract Awards Totaling $28.6 million

Press Release Source: ATS Corporation On Thursday March 4, 2010, 4:30 pm EST

MCLEAN, Va., March 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — ATS Corporation (“ATSC” or the “Company”) (NYSE Amex: ATSC), a leading information technology company that delivers innovative technology solutions to government and commercial organizations, today announced that it has been awarded several new and follow-on contracts totaling $28.6 million with the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (“NRC”), the Federal Housing Finance Agency (“FHFA”) and several large insurance customers.

The new NRC contract totals $21.4 million over a five-year term.  With this award, ATSC will continue to support the NRC’s Program Management Methodology (PMM), the major NRC Program Offices, and will maintain the NRC’s Rational Tools Suite.

The new FHFA contract totals $1.4 million over an 18 month term.  Under this award, ATSC will support the agency’s efforts to consolidate and modernize its IT infrastructure, which include network design, management and continuity of operations.  The FHFA regulates Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac and the 12 Federal Home Loan Banks and was formed in 2008 by the merger of the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight (“OFHEO”), the Federal Housing Finance Board (“FHFB”) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) government-sponsored enterprise (“GSE”) mission team.

ATSC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Edward H. Bersoff commented on the two new government awards, “ATSC has been a trusted service provider to the NRC for the past five years.  With this new award, we look forward to continuing our relationship and plan on further assisting the NRC in other business areas in the future.  ATSC has provided application development and IT support to the predecessor organizations that merged into the FHFA for the last six years.  Our longstanding relationship with this customer is a testament to our expertise and ability to provide the tools necessary to support the mission of this recently established organization.”

The Company also received an award totaling $4.5 million over 12 months from a large health insurance provider, representing an extension of our current assignment to provide application development support for the organization’s claims modernization project.   The remaining $1.3 million in new awards came from several different property and casualty insurance customers, including Arbella Insurance Group, Minnesota Fair Plan, and Michigan Basic Property Insurance Association.  ATSC’s insurance practice leverages its domain expertise to deliver technology solutions that improve the efficiency of business operations.

Bersoff added, “We are very pleased to see our commercial business starting the year with these important wins.   Each of these awards represents extension of our current work, demonstrating our strong track record of performance with our customers.”

About ATS Corporation

ATSC is a leading provider of software and systems development, systems integration, infrastructure management and outsourcing, information sharing, training and consulting to the Department of Defense, Federal civilian agencies, public safety and national security customers, as well as commercial enterprises.  Headquartered in McLean, Virginia, the Company has more than 600 employees at 10 locations across the country.

Any statements in this press release about future expectations, plans, and prospects for ATSC, including statements about the estimated value of the contract and work to be performed, and other statements containing the words “estimates,” “believes,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “expects,” “will,” and similar expressions, constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results may differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements as a result of various important factors, including: our dependence on our contracts with federal government agencies for the majority of our revenue, our dependence on our GSA schedule contracts and our position as a prime contractor on government-wide acquisition contracts to grow our business, and other factors discussed in our latest annual report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 16, 2009, as amended on February 24, 2010. In addition, the forward-looking statements included in this press release represent our views as of March 4, 2010. We anticipate that subsequent events and developments will cause our views to change. However, while we may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future, we specifically disclaim any obligation to do so. These forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as representing our views as of any date subsequent to March 4, 2010.

Friday, March 5th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on ATS Corporation (ATSC) Announces New Contract Awards Totaling $28.6 million

Fronteer (FRG) Drilling Returns 1.23 Ounces Per Ton Gold Over 24.8 Feet at Sandman, Nevada

Press Release Source: Fronteer On Friday March 5, 2010, 7:00 am EST

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(Marketwire – 03/05/10) – Fronteer (TSX:FRGNews)(AMEX:FRGNews) announces today that drilling by Newmont USA Limited (“Newmont”), a wholly owned subsidiary of Newmont Mining Corporation, has intersected additional bonanza-grade, near-surface oxide gold at Sandman, one of three high-quality Nevada gold projects in Fronteer’s future production platform.

Newmont has provided drill results from six holes at Sandman’s Silica Ridge deposit. Hole NSM-137, starting at a depth of 20 metres, returned:

– 42.28 grams per tonne gold (1.23 ounces per ton) over 7.56 metres (24.8 feet), including 98.24 g/t gold (2.86 oz/ton) over 2.65 metres; and

– 26.52 g/t gold (0.77 oz/ton) over 0.61 metres.

The remaining five holes provided by Newmont all intersected oxide gold mineralization starting within 15 metres of surface, including:

– 1.36 g/t gold (0.04 oz/ton) over 7.25 metres in NSM-125;

– 1.43 g/t gold (0.04 oz/ton) over 11.09 metres, in NSM-130.

Importantly, the high-grade style of gold intersected in NSM-137 is a consistent component of the mineralization at Sandman, reinforcing the high-quality nature of this epithermal system. Specifically, since Newmont began drilling at Sandman in 2008, 24% of all holes (26 out of 110) have returned intercepts of greater than 10 g/t gold over more than 1.0 metres. By way of example, some of these intercepts, which have been previously published, are tabulated below.

 

--------------------------------------------------------------------
             From        To  Intercept                  Au
Hole ID   (metres)  (metres)   (metres)  Au (g/t)  (oz/ton)  Ag (g/t)
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-57      24.78     27.13       2.35    139.03      4.06     47.58
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-69      38.01     39.96       1.95    120.75      3.52     20.39
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-142     57.79     61.26       3.47     90.28      2.63    126.54
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-141     47.15     48.34       1.19     86.91      2.53     67.89
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-55      29.60     31.46       1.86     72.36      2.11     48.16
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-147     12.92     13.93       1.01     52.45      1.53     34.11
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-148     31.76     32.77       1.01     50.55      1.47  2,067.45
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-53      32.58     34.53       1.95     65.69      1.92     57.97
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-110     17.86     20.48       2.62     32.14      0.94     42.92
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-44      37.06     38.89       1.83     29.17      0.85      8.68
--------------------------------------------------------------------
NSM-51     118.57    120.64       2.07     28.90      0.84     69.31
--------------------------------------------------------------------

The true width of the mineralized zones is estimated to be
approximately 90% of those stated. Drill composites were calculated
using a cut-off of 2.0 g/t.

For a comprehensive table of new and previously reported drill results, please click (note: due to the length of the URL, you may need to copy and paste it into your internet browser): http://www.fronteergroup.com/sites/files/fronteer_admin/SandmanDrillResults1010.pdf

Results are pending from additional holes from Newmont’s 2009 work-program.

Newmont has met its annual earn-in obligations and has continued to advance the project, completing more than 12,000 metres of drilling since 2008. As part of this year’s program, Newmont is preparing an expanded Plan of Operations for 2010, which will include exploration drilling to test up to eight new targets, ongoing development drilling and additional geotechnical and metallurgical work.

Sandman is within trucking distance to Newmont’s Twin Creeks mine, potentially eliminating the need for a stand-alone milling facility and other significant capital expenditures if the project were to proceed to production.

Northumberland, Sandman and Long Canyon comprise Fronteer’s future production platform based in Nevada. All three gold deposits have high-grade gold starting at- or near-surface, are potentially open-pit mineable and have encouraging production attributes. Fronteer aims to build regional production by advancing these projects sequentially over the near-term, and funding the company’s growth with low-risk of dilution. In the near-term, Fronteer anticipates ongoing deposit growth to add significant gold ounces to its ledger and pending results from a variety of development activities to clearly define the economic strength of the company’s projects.

Drill samples and analytical data for the Sandman project are being collected under the supervision of Newmont, Fronteer’s joint venture partner and project operator, using industry standard QA-QC protocols. Fronteer’s James Ashton P.E., who is the QP responsible for compiling the data contained in this release, has not verified all the data; however, the grades and widths reported here agree well with the Company’s past results on the project and correspondence with the operator and review of portions of the data has given him no reason to doubt their authenticity. The true width of the mineralized zones is estimated by Fronteer to be approximately 90% of those stated. Primary composite intervals stated in this release were calculated using a cut-off of 0.3 g/t Au, 0.5 g/t Au and 2.0 g/t Au for the higher grade internal intervals. No gold values below the 0.30 g/t Au cut-off were included as internal dilution. The lower 0.3 g/t cut off is used to conform with the 43-101 compliant resources previously calculated on the Sandman Project. For further details on Sandman, please view the technical report prepared by Mine Development Associates (“MDA”), as of May 31, 2007, on SEDAR at http://www.sedar.com.

ABOUT FRONTEER

We intend to become a significant gold producer. Our solid financial position and strengthened operational team give us the ability to advance our key gold projects through to production. Our future potential production platform includes our Long Canyon, Sandman and Northumberland projects – all located in Nevada, one of the friendliest gold-mining jurisdictions in the world. For further information on Fronteer visit http://www.fronteergroup.com/.

Except for the statements of historical fact contained herein, certain information presented constitutes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and Canadian securities laws. Such forward-looking statements, including but not limited to, those with respect to potential expansion of mineralization, potential size of mineralized zone, and size and timing of exploration and development programs, estimated project capital and other project costs and the timing of submission and receipt and availability of regulatory approvals involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievement of Fronteer to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, among others, risks related to international operations and joint ventures, the actual results of current exploration activities, conclusions of economic evaluations, uncertainty in the estimation of mineral resources, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future prices of uranium, environmental risks and hazards, increased infrastructure and/or operating costs, labour and employment matters, and government regulation and permitting requirements as well as those factors discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Fronteer’s Annual Information form and Fronteer’s latest Form 40-F on file with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission in Washington, D.C. Although Fronteer has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Fronteer disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, other than as required pursuant to applicable securities laws. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Friday, March 5th, 2010 Uncategorized 1 Comment

RCN Corporation (RCNI) to Be Acquired by ABRY Partners

HERNDON, VA — (Marketwire) — 03/05/10 — RCN Corporation (NASDAQ: RCNI) and ABRY Partners today announced their entry into a definitive agreement for an investment fund managed by ABRY to acquire RCN for total consideration of approximately $1.2 billion, including the assumption of debt. As part of this agreement, each share of RCN common stock issued and outstanding immediately prior to the effective time of the merger will be entitled to receive $15 in cash, representing a 43% premium over RCN’s average closing share price during the past 30 trading days and a 22% premium over the closing share price on March 4, 2010. The transaction has fully committed financing, consisting of a combination of equity to be invested by ABRY and debt financing to be provided by SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc., GE Capital, Societe Generale, and certain of their affiliates.

The transaction is expected to be completed in the second half of 2010, subject to receipt of stockholder approval, regulatory approvals, including the receipt of required consents and approvals of the Federal Communications Commission, as well as satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. The transaction is not subject to any financing condition.

Under the terms of the merger agreement, RCN may solicit proposals from third parties for 40 days through April 14, 2010. There can be no assurances that this process will result in an alternative transaction. RCN does not intend to disclose developments with respect to this solicitation process unless and until its Board of Directors has made a decision.

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc. and Waller Capital Partners, LLC acted as financial advisors to the Special Committee of RCN’s Board of Directors with respect to this transaction. Jenner & Block LLP acted as counsel to RCN.

SunTrust Robinson Humphrey acted as exclusive financial advisor to ABRY and will also serve as Left Lead Joint Bookrunner and Administrative Agent for the debt financing. GE Capital Markets and SG Americas Securities will also act as Joint Bookrunners for the debt financing. Edwards Angell Palmer & Dodge LLP acted as counsel to ABRY Partners.

Update Regarding Conference Call for Fourth Quarter Financial Results

As a result of this announcement, RCN will not hold a fourth quarter 2009 results conference call, previously scheduled for March 9, 2010.

About RCN Corporation
RCN Corporation (NASDAQ: RCNI), www.rcn.com, is a competitive broadband services provider delivering all-digital and high definition video, high-speed internet and premium voice services to residential and small-medium business customers under the brand names of RCN and RCN Business Services, respectively. In addition, through its RCN Metro Optical Networks business unit, RCN delivers fiber-based high-capacity data transport services to large commercial customers, primarily large enterprises and carriers, targeting the metropolitan central business districts in the company’s geographic markets. RCN’s primary service areas include Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Lehigh Valley (PA), New York City, Boston and Chicago. (RCNI-G)

About ABRY Partners
Based in Boston, Massachusetts, ABRY Partners enjoys a position as one of the most experienced and successful media and communications focused private equity investment firms in North America. Since 1989, ABRY Partners has completed over $21 billion of leveraged transactions and other private equity and mezzanine investments, representing investments in more than 500 media and communications properties.

Important Notice
In connection with the proposed transaction, RCN will file a proxy statement and other materials with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors and security holders are advised to read the proxy statement and these other materials when they become available because they will contain important information about RCN and the proposed transaction. Investors and security holders may obtain a free copy of the proxy statement (when available) and other documents filed by RCN with the Securities and Exchange Commission at the SEC web site at www.sec.gov. Copies of the proxy statement (when available) and other filings made by RCN with the SEC can also be obtained, free of charge, by directing a request to RCN Corporation, 196 Van Buren Street, Herndon, VA 20170, Attention: Investor Relations. The proxy statement (when available) and such other documents are also available for free on the RCN website at www.rcn.com under “About RCN/Investor Relations/SEC Filings.”

RCN and its directors and officers and other persons may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from its stockholders in connection with the proposed acquisition transaction. Information concerning the interests of directors and executive officers in the solicitation is set forth in the RCN proxy statements and Annual Reports on Form 10-K, previously filed with the SEC, and in the proxy statement relating to the proposed transaction when it becomes available.

RCN Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. One can identify these forward-looking statements by the use of words such as “expect,” “anticipate,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “estimate” or other similar expressions. Because such statements apply to future events, they are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the actual results to differ materially. Important factors, which could cause actual results to differ materially, include (without limitation): the ability to obtain regulatory approvals of the transactions contemplated by the acquisition agreement on the proposed terms and schedule; the failure of RCN’s stockholders to approve the transactions contemplated by the acquisition agreement; our ability to maintain relationships with customers, employees or suppliers following the announcement of the transaction; the ability of third parties to fulfill their obligations relating to the proposed transactions, including providing financing under current financial market conditions; the ability of the parties to satisfy the conditions to closing of the transactions contemplated by the acquisition agreement; and the risk that the transactions contemplated by the acquisition agreement may not be completed in the time frame expected by the parties or at all. Additional information on risk factors that may affect the business and financial results of RCN can be found in RCN’s Annual Report on Form 10-K and in the filings of RCN made from time to time with the SEC. RCN undertakes no obligation to correct or update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Friday, March 5th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on RCN Corporation (RCNI) to Be Acquired by ABRY Partners

InterMune (ITMN) Announces Posting of Briefing Documents for FDA Advisory Committee Meeting on Pirfenidone

BRISBANE, Calif., March 5 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — InterMune, Inc. (Nasdaq: ITMN) announced today that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has posted briefing documents for the March 9 Pulmonary-Allergy Drugs Advisory Committee (PADAC) meeting to review the New Drug Application (NDA) for pirfenidone, InterMune’s investigational drug candidate for the treatment of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) to reduce decline in lung function. The proposed trade name for pirfenidone is Esbriet®.

IPF is a disabling and ultimately fatal disease that affects approximately 200,000 people in the United States and Europe combined, with approximately 30,000 new cases reported per year in each region. There are no medicines approved in the United States or in Europe for the treatment of IPF. Pirfenidone was approved in Japan in October of 2008 and is marketed by Shionogi & Co. Ltd as Pirespa®.

The Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for 8:00 a.m. EST on Tuesday, March 9, 2010. The briefing materials can be accessed at: http://www.fda.gov/AdvisoryCommittees/CommitteesMeetingMaterials/Drugs/Pulmonary-AllergyDrugsAdvisoryCommittee/ucm199877.htm

Pirfenidone Regulatory Path – NDA and MAA

On November 4, 2009, InterMune submitted the NDA for pirfenidone to the FDA, seeking approval to market pirfenidone for the treatment of patients with IPF to reduce decline in lung function. Pirfenidone has been granted Orphan Drug and Fast Track designation by the FDA, and also has been granted Orphan Drug status in Europe. On January 4, 2010, InterMune announced that the FDA granted Priority Review designation for the pirfenidone NDA. Priority Review designation may be granted by the FDA to an NDA for drugs that have the potential to offer major advances in treatment, or provide a treatment where no adequate therapy exists. Based on the Prescription Drug User Fee Act (PDUFA), the FDA has set an action date for the NDA of May 4, 2010.

On March 2, 2010, InterMune announced that it had submitted a Marketing Authorization Application (MAA) to the European Medicines Agency (EMA), seeking approval to market pirfenidone for the treatment of IPF patients in the European Union.

About Pirfenidone

Preclinical and in-vitro evidence have shown that pirfenidone has both anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory effects. In February 2009, InterMune announced the results of the company’s two global Phase 3 clinical trials evaluating pirfenidone for the treatment of IPF, known as the CAPACITY trials. InterMune believes that these data support the safety and efficacy of pirfenidone in IPF patients on a number of clinical measures. Prior to the CAPACITY results, data had previously been presented from another Phase 3 study and three Phase 2 clinical trials in more than 400 patients which suggested that pirfenidone may positively affect lung function and disease progression in patients with IPF. In those clinical studies, pirfenidone was safe and generally well-tolerated, with the most frequent side effects reported being photosensitivity rash and gastrointestinal symptoms. In October of 2008, pirfenidone was approved for use in IPF patients in Japan and is marketed as Pirespa® by Shionogi & Co. Ltd. in that country.

About IPF

IPF is characterized by inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) in the lungs, hindering the ability to process oxygen and causing shortness of breath (dyspnea) and cough and is a progressive disease, meaning that over time, lung scarring and symptoms increase in severity. The median survival time from diagnosis is two to five years, with a five-year survival rate of approximately 20%. Patients diagnosed with IPF are usually between the ages of 40 and 70, with a median age of 63 years and the disease tends to affect slightly more men than women.

About InterMune

InterMune is a biotechnology company focused on the research, development and commercialization of innovative therapies in pulmonology and hepatology. InterMune has an R&D portfolio addressing idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infections. The pulmonology portfolio includes pirfenidone for which InterMune has completed a Phase 3 program in patients with IPF (CAPACITY) and a New Drug Application (NDA) has been accepted for Priority Review by the FDA. The hepatology portfolio includes the HCV protease inhibitor compound RG7227 (ITMN-191) that entered Phase 2b in August 2009 and a second-generation HCV protease inhibitor research program. For additional information about InterMune and its R&D pipeline, please visit www.intermune.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, which reflect InterMune’s judgment and involve risks and uncertainties as of the date of this release, including without limitation the statements related to anticipated regulatory timelines and the likelihood of regulatory success. All forward-looking statements and other information included in this press release are based on information available to InterMune as of the date hereof, and InterMune assumes no obligation to update any such forward-looking statements or information. InterMune’s actual results could differ materially from those described in InterMune’s forward-looking statements. Pirfenidone failed to achieve statistical significance on the primary endpoint in one of its two pivotal clinical trials and there can be no assurance that the regulatory authorities in either the United States or Europe will grant regulatory approval based upon these data, in combination with the other efficacy analyses and safety results the company has submitted in support of its NDA and MAA filings. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, those discussed in detail in the risk factors attached as Exhibit 99.3 to InterMune’s Form 8-K filed with the SEC on January 20, 2010, and other periodic reports filed with the SEC, including the following: (i) risks related to the long, expensive and uncertain clinical development and regulatory process, including having no unexpected safety, toxicology, clinical or other issues or delays in anticipated timing of the regulatory approval process; (ii) risks related to failure to achieve the clinical trial results required to commercialize our product candidates; and (iii) risks related to timely patient enrollment and retention in clinical trials. The risks and other factors discussed above should be considered only in connection with the fully discussed risks and other factors discussed in detail in the Form 8-K and InterMune’s other periodic reports filed with the SEC. InterMune undertakes no duty or obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this release as a result of new information, future events or changes in InterMune’s expectations.

Friday, March 5th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on InterMune (ITMN) Announces Posting of Briefing Documents for FDA Advisory Committee Meeting on Pirfenidone

China Armco (CNAM) Metals Enters Into Scrap Steel Supply Contract With Major China Steel Producer

SAN MATEO, CA, Mar. 4, 2010 (Marketwire) —

SAN MATEO, CA — (Marketwire) — 03/04/10 — China Armco Metals, Inc. (NYSE Amex: CNAM), a distributor of imported metal ore and metal recycler with a new state of the art scrap metal recycling facility in China, today announced that Armet Renewable Resource Company, Limited, the Company’s wholly owned subsidiary, has signed a contract to supply a major Chinese steel producer with up to 230,000 tons of scrap steel in 2010. The contract calls for the delivery of up to 23,000 metric tons of scrap steel per month for 10 months beginning in March of 2010. Based on the current spot price of scrap steel, this supply contract is valued at over $100 million.

Management anticipates this supply contract will allow the company to sell all of the initial production from its recently completed 1 million ton recycling facility during the first several months of operation. Additionally, management anticipates reaching a full capacity run rate sometime in the fourth quarter of 2010. At full capacity the facility is capable of processing approximately 1 million metric tons of scrap steel per year or over $400 million annually at current prices.

Commenting on the supply contract, Mr. Kexuan Yao, CEO and Chairman of China Armco Metals, Inc., stated, “We are very excited to have secured such a sizable contract with this leading steel producer. This essentially has pre-sold the first several months of production from our newly opened facility as we ramp up capacity over the coming quarters. We are confident that this contract coupled with our other operations will enable our company to experience significant revenue growth and enhanced earnings power for the foreseeable future.”

About China Armco Metals, Inc.

China Armco Metals, Inc. is engaged in the sale and distribution of metal ore and non-ferrous metals throughout the PRC and has entered the recycling business with the Company’s acquisition of 22 acres of land for the construction and operation of a one million ton per year shredder and recycler of metals. The Company maintains customers throughout China which include the fastest growing steel producing mills and foundries in the PRC. Raw materials are supplied from global suppliers in India, Hong Kong, Nigeria, Brazil, Turkey, the Philippines and Libya. The Company’s product lines include ferrous and non-ferrous ore; iron ore, chrome ore, nickel ore, copper ore, manganese ore and steel billet. Upon completion and testing of its new facility late in the fourth quarter of 2009, China Armco Metals expects to launch operations in its steel recycling and scrap metal recycling business early in 2010. The recycling facility is expected to be capable of recycling one million metric tons of scrap metal per year which will position the Company as one of the top 10 largest recyclers of scrap metal in China. ARMCO estimates the recycled metal market as 70 million metric tons. For more information about China Armco, please visit http://www.armcometals.com

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. China Armco Metals, Inc. is hereby providing cautionary statements identifying important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those projected in forward-looking statements. Any statements that are not historical facts and that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, indicated through the use of words or phrases such as “will likely result,” “are expected to,” “will continue,” “is anticipated,” “estimated,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes” and “projects”) may be forward-looking and may involve estimates and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in the forward-looking statements. These statements include, but are not limited to, our guidance and expectations regarding revenues, net income and earnings.

We caution that the factors described herein could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements we make and that investors should not place undue reliance on any such forward-looking statements. Further, any forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date on which such statement is made, and we undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made or to reflect the occurrence of anticipated or unanticipated events or circumstances. New factors emerge from time to time, and it is not possible for us to predict all of such factors. Further, we cannot assess the impact of each such factor on our results of operations or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. This press release is qualified in its entirety by the cautionary statements and risk factor include unforeseen natural disasters, our ability to deliver the quantity stated in our contract, fluctuations in raw material prices, we may not be able to pass on cost increases to customers and disclosure contained in our Securities and Exchange Commission filings, including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2008.

Thursday, March 4th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on China Armco (CNAM) Metals Enters Into Scrap Steel Supply Contract With Major China Steel Producer

SXC Health Solutions (SXCI) Signs PBM Contract with HealthSpring

Mar. 4, 2010 (PR Newswire) —

LISLE, IL, March 4 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ – SXC Health Solutions Corp. (“SXC” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: SXCI, TSX: SXC), a leading provider of pharmacy benefit management (PBM) products and services, today announced that its informedRx PBM unit has been awarded a contract with HealthSpring Inc. (“HealthSpring”) having an initial term of three years with provisions for two additional one-year extensions. HealthSpring, based in Nashville, Tennessee, offers Medicare Advantage plans across seven states to over 193,000 members and a national stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plan to 387,000 members. SXC will provide HealthSpring with its full suite of PBM services which include mail order pharmacy, specialty pharmacy, retail network management, Medicare compliance services, and patient care clinical services, managing an anticipated drug spend of approximately $1 billion annually. HealthSpring will deploy mail and specialty pharmacy services beginning in 2010, with implementation of the full PBM services on January 1, 2011.

“The flexibility of SXC’s full service PBM offering, combined with its expertise in Medicare Part D, aligns perfectly with our commitment to design competitive products and provide high quality healthcare benefits to Medicare members,” said Michael G. Mirt, President and Chief Operating Officer of HealthSpring, Inc. “We manage our Medicare Advantage plans locally and require customized benefits programs throughout our network, which made SXC, with its flexible PBM service model, an ideal partner to help us achieve our service and cost containment objectives.”

“HealthSpring is a recognized market leader in Medicare, and we are very pleased to earn their business,” said Mark Thierer, President and CEO of SXC. “The size and scope of this agreement makes HealthSpring a strategic addition to our PBM client base and validates our ability to scale our offerings to meet the needs of some of the largest and most innovative healthcare organizations in the country.”

SXC collaborates with clients to use pharmacy data to more effectively manage medical costs. Taking a highly consultative approach, SXC will help HealthSpring use these insights to drive smarter plan design and pre-emptive intervention in high-risk clinical situations by utilizing its Integrail(TM) clinical decision support tool. Additionally, HealthSpring has a unique and differentiated relationship with its physicians – SXC will deploy its provider technology tools to actively engage their physician community.

About HealthSpring Inc.

HealthSpring is based in Nashville, Tennessee, and is one of the country’s largest Medicare Advantage coordinated care plans. HealthSpring currently owns and operates Medicare Advantage plans in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas and also offers a national stand-alone Medicare prescription drug plan. For more information, visit www.healthspring.com.

About SXC Health Solutions Corp.

SXC Health Solutions Corp. is a leading provider of pharmacy benefit management (PBM) services and Healthcare Information Technology (HCIT) solutions to the healthcare benefits management industry. As the industry’s “Technology-Enabled PBM”(TM), SXC’s product offerings and solutions combine a wide range of advanced PBM services, software applications, application service provider processing services, and professional services to help healthcare organizations reduce the cost of prescription drugs and deliver better healthcare to their members. SXC serves many of the largest organizations in the pharmaceutical supply chain, such as health plans; employers; Federal, provincial, and state governments; institutional pharmacies; pharmacy benefit managers; and retail pharmacy chains. SXC is headquartered in Lisle, Illinois with multiple locations in North America. Learn more at www.sxc.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements included herein, including those that express management’s expectations or estimates of our future performance relating to the new agreement with HealthSpring Inc., constitute “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by management at this time, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. We caution that such forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other risks that may cause our actual financial results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from our estimated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by those forward-looking statements. Factors to be considered are discussed from time to time in SXC’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risks and uncertainties discussed under that captions “Risk Factors” and “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, which are available at www.sec.gov. Investors are cautioned not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to SXC or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by this notice. We disclaim any intent or obligation to update publicly these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Please see our Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 4, 2010 for additional information regarding the new agreement with HealthSpring Inc.

Thursday, March 4th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on SXC Health Solutions (SXCI) Signs PBM Contract with HealthSpring

Bell Microproducts (BELM) Announces Financial Results for the Fourth Quarter and Full Fiscal Year 2009

Mar. 3, 2010 (GlobeNewswire) —

Sequential Sales Up 9% to $837 Million

Quarterly Earnings Improve to $0.40 per Share and Non-GAAP Earnings to $0.28 per Share

SAN JOSE, Calif., March 3, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bell Microproducts Inc. (Nasdaq:BELM), one of the world’s largest value-added distributors of storage and computing technology, today announced its financial results for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2009.

Net sales in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2009 were $837.0 million, an increase of 9% compared to both the third quarter of 2009 and the fourth quarter of 2008. Net income for the fourth fiscal quarter of 2009 was $12.9 million, or $0.40 per diluted share, compared to net income of $1.7 million, or $0.05 per diluted share in the prior quarter, and a net loss of $(33.5) million, or $(1.04) per share in the fourth quarter of 2008. On a non-GAAP basis, the Company generated net income of $9.1 million, or $0.28 per diluted share in the fourth fiscal quarter of 2009, as compared to non-GAAP net income of $4.2 million, or $0.13 per diluted share in the prior quarter and a non-GAAP net loss of $(16.4) million, or $(0.51) per share, in the fourth quarter of 2008.

“We are pleased to report significantly improved profits and fundamentals in the fourth quarter as we concluded a year full of accomplishments,” said W. Donald Bell, President and CEO. “Sales increased in each major geography as market conditions improved and we executed against our goals.  We were particularly encouraged by Europe, where sales increased 14% compared to same quarter last year and 17% sequentially. With our sales growth, solid margins and lower expenses, we generated significant sequential increases in our GAAP and non-GAAP profits. Our 2010 focus is on further improving our execution and shareholder returns.”

Key Financial Highlights for the Fourth Quarter of 2009:

  • Net sales were $837.0 million, up 9% compared to the third fiscal quarter of 2009.
  • Selling, general and administrative expenses (excluding professional fees) were down 25% and professional fees were down 76% from the fourth quarter of 2008.
  • The Company reported operating income of 2.1% of sales and net income of $12.9 million ($0.40 per diluted share).
  • Non-GAAP net income was $9.1 million ($0.28 per diluted share), up from $4.2 million ($0.13 per diluted share) in the third quarter of 2009.
  • Working capital, defined as current assets less current liabilities, increased 14% to $152 million, and the cash conversion cycle declined from 41 days to 40 days, compared to September 30, 2009.
  • In September 2009, the Company became current with its SEC filing requirements, and in early 2010:

– the Company’s shares became relisted on The NASDAQ Global Market under the symbol “BELM”, and

– the Company announced that the SEC investigation concerning its accounting and financial reporting matters had been completed and that no enforcement action was recommended.

Non-GAAP results reflect the exclusion of various non-cash and other charges and credits from the Company’s reported GAAP results as detailed in the attached supplemental reconciliation table, including the following recorded in the fourth quarter of 2009:

  • a $3.2 million credit recorded upon a contract settlement, and
  • net tax credits of $8.6 million to reverse a portion of the valuation allowance previously recorded on certain deferred tax assets.

Net Sales and Product Mix by Region

The following is a comparison of the Company’s net sales and product mix for the fourth quarter of 2009 in each of its three major geographic regions:

  • North American net sales were $354.0 million (42% of total revenues), a sequential increase of 4%. The sales growth was primarily fueled by an improved market for storage components, improved execution of semiconductor sales and continued growth in value-added products and services. Compared to the fourth quarter of 2008, North American net sales increased 1%.
  • European region net sales were $351.7 million (42% of total revenues), a sequential increase of 17% (16% in constant currency), primarily attributable to an improved market for storage components, a seasonal increase in enterprise product sales and a strengthening of foreign currencies in relation to the US dollar. Compared to the fourth quarter of 2008, European net sales increased 14% (5% in constant currency).
  • Latin American net sales were $130.8 million (16% of total revenues), a sequential increase of 6% (5% in constant currency). Compared to the fourth quarter of 2008, Latin American net sales increased 19% (13% in constant currency) due to an improved market for semiconductor products and storage components.

The following is a net sales breakdown for Bell Micro’s major categories of products and services for the fourth fiscal quarter:

  • The Components and Peripherals category, which represented 46% of net sales, increased 16% sequentially and increased 27% compared to the comparable quarter of 2008. Disk drive sales increased 16% from both comparable prior periods, primarily in Europe and North America, and primarily due to stabilized unit pricing and a favorable product mix. Disk drive sales represented 26% of total net sales. Also contributing to the growth in Components and Peripherals was increased sales of certain semiconductor products, primarily in Latin America.
  • The Solutions category increased 5% sequentially to represent 54% of total net sales in the fourth quarter of 2009. The sequential increase was primarily due to higher sales of software licenses in Europe and higher sales of computer platform products, primarily in North America. Solutions sales declined by nearly 3% compared to the fourth quarter of 2008.

Fiscal 2009 Overview

Annual net sales for 2009 were $3.0 billion, a 16% decrease from net sales for 2008. Net income for 2009 was $7.5 million, or $0.23 per diluted share, as compared to a net loss of $(82.5) million, or $(2.55) per share, in 2008. Non-GAAP net income generated in 2009 was $16.4 million, or $0.50 per diluted share, as compared to a non-GAAP net loss of $(23.0) million, or $(0.71) per diluted share, in 2008.

Balance Sheet

The Company’s key balance sheet metrics as of December 31, 2009, as compared to December 31, 2008, are as follows:

  • Total debt declined 8% to $350 million, and the Company is in compliance with all financial covenants of its banking agreements;
  • Working capital, defined as current assets less current liabilities, increased 30% to $152 million and the cash conversion cycle declined from 46 days to 40 days;
  • Accounts receivable increased 1% to $435 million and days sales outstanding declined from 50 days to 47 days;
  • Inventory increased 28% to $296 million and accounts payable and cash overdraft increased 31% to $361 million due to opportunistic purchases of storage components late in the quarter.

First Quarter 2010 Outlook

Management anticipates first quarter 2010 sales of $780 million to $815 million, an increase of 9% to 14% from the first quarter of 2009. Further, based upon foreign currency exchange rate changes to date, we anticipate first quarter currency losses of approximately $3 to $4 million.

Conference Call

A conference call is scheduled for today, March 3, 2010, at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time. The Company will broadcast the conference call via a webcast over the internet. To listen to the webcast, please visit the investors section of the Bell Micro website at www.bellmicro.com. A replay will be available following the call on Bell Micro’s Investor Relations web site or for one week at the following numbers: 888-286-8010 or 617-801-6888 with ID#55032448.

About Bell Microproducts Inc.

Bell Microproducts (Nasdaq:BELM) is an international, value-added distributor of a wide range of high-tech products, solutions and services, including storage systems, servers, software, computer components, and peripherals, as well as maintenance and professional services.  An industry-recognized specialist in storage products, the Company is one of the world’s largest storage-centric value-added distributors.

Bell Microproducts is uniquely qualified with deep technical and application expertise to service a broad range of information technology needs.  From design to deployment, its products are available at any level of integration, from components to subsystem assemblies and fully-integrated, tested and certified system solutions.  More information can be found in the Company’s SEC filings, or by visiting the Bell Microproducts website at http://www.bellmicro.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

Some of the statements included in this press release constitute forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. These forward-looking statements include statements that reflect the current views of our senior management with respect to our financial performance and future events with respect to our business and our industry in general. Statements that include the words “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “anticipate,” “estimate” and similar statements of a future or forward-looking nature identify forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements address matters that involve risks and uncertainties. Accordingly, there are or will be important factors that could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated in these statements. We believe that these factors include, but are not limited to, the following: our ability to comply with the financial covenants in our credit agreements; our ability to achieve cost reductions and other benefits in connection with our strategic initiatives; the circumstances resulting in the restatement of our historical financial statements and the material weaknesses in our internal control over financial reporting and in our disclosure controls and procedures; our ability to remain current in our SEC filings; loss or adverse effect on our supplier relationships; our ability to accurately forecast customer demand and order sufficient product quantities; competition in the markets in which we operate; the products we sell may not satisfy shifting customer demand; our reliance on third parties to manufacture the products we sell; our reliance on credit provided by our manufacturers to finance our inventory purchases; risks related to our substantial indebtedness, including the inability to obtain additional financing for our operations on terms acceptable to us or at all; limitations on our operating and strategic flexibility under the terms of our debt agreements; our ability to attract and retain qualified personnel; risks associated with doing business abroad, including foreign currency risks; our inability to identify, acquire and integrate acquired businesses; the outcome of any pending or future litigation or regulatory proceedings, including the pending French tax proceeding, the current shareholder lawsuit and any claims or litigation related to the restatement of our consolidated financial statements; the effects of a prolonged economic downturn; and our ability to reduce professional fees for audit, legal, tax and outside accounting advisor services.

For a more detailed discussion of how these and other risks and uncertainties could cause our actual results to differ materially from those indicated in our forward-looking statements, see our reports filed with SEC (available at www.sec.gov), including our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.

BELL MICROPRODUCTS INC.
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands)
(unaudited)
December 31,
2009 2008 (1)
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash (2) $ 21,132 $ 22,775
Accounts receivable, net 434,858 429,853
Inventories 295,692 230,652
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 44,088 24,907
Total current assets 795,770 708,187
Property and equipment, net 15,710 19,042
Goodwill and other intangibles 27,717 28,526
Other long-term assets 17,779 26,371
Total assets $ 856,976 $ 782,126
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable and cash overdraft $ 360,868 $ 274,745
Borrowings under lines of credit and current portion of

long-term debt

190,788 221,691
Other accrued liabilities 91,784 94,658
Total current liabilities 643,440 591,094
Long-term debt, net of current portion 159,494 161,063
Other long-term liabilities 22,210 24,269
Total liabilities 825,144 776,426
Shareholders’ equity 31,832 5,700
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $ 856,976 $ 782,126

(1)   Adjusted for the retrospective adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) ASC 470-20, Debt with Conversion and Other Options (“ASC 470-20”).

(2)   Includes approximately $2.0 million of compensating balances under certain of the Company’s credit arrangements at December 31, 2009.

BELL MICROPRODUCTS INC.
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In thousands, except per share data)
(unaudited)
Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
Dec. 31, Sep. 30, Dec. 31, December 31,
2009 2009 2008(1) 2009 2008(1)
Net sales $ 836,967 $ 765,156 $ 768,806 $ 3,021,167 $ 3,579,499
Cost of sales 758,568 693,431 690,301 2,725,127 3,244,053
Gross profit 78,399 71,725 78,505 296,040 335,446
Selling, general and administrative expense 54,652 59,040 73,307 226,329 302,416
Professional fees 4,197 2,906 17,220 26,129 56,763
Impairment of goodwill and other intangibles 5,864 5,864
Restructuring costs 1,696 1,949 3,795 4,289
Total operating expenses 60,545 61,946 98,340 256,253 369,332
Operating income (loss) 17,854 9,779 (19,835) 39,787 (33,886)
Interest and other expense, net 8,979 7,517 14,281 30,976 48,053
Income (loss) before income taxes 8,875 2,262 (34,116) 8,811 (81,939)
Provision for (benefit from) income taxes (4,073) 597 (637) 1,289 527
Net income (loss) $ 12,948 $ 1,665 $ (33,479) $ 7,522 $ (82,466)
Income (loss) per share:
Basic $ 0.41 $ 0.05 $ (1.04) $ 0.24 $ (2.55)
Diluted $ 0.40 $ 0.05 $ (1.04) $ 0.23 $ (2.55)
Shares used in per share calculation:
Basic 31,919 31,879 32,070 31,859 32,299
Diluted 32,694 32,575 32,070 32,595 32,299

(1)   Adjusted for the retrospective adoption of ASC 470-20.

BELL MICROPRODUCTS INC.
Supplemental Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Results
(In thousands, except per share data)
(Unaudited)
Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
Dec. 31, Sep. 30, Dec. 31, December 31,
2009 2009 2008 2009 2008
Net income (loss):
GAAP net income (loss) $ 12,948 $ 1,665 $ (33,479) $ 7,522 $ (82,466)
Adjustments:
Professional fees (1) 1,997 706 15,020 17,329 47,963
Trade settlements (334) (4,461) (15,058) (10,563)
ProSys derivative and related settlement (3,224) (2,374) 1,217 (6,156) 4,019
Intangible amortization 798 815 793 3,170 3,405
Stock-based compensation 776 477 709 2,518 2,955
Restructuring costs 1,696 1,949 3,795 4,289
Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs 3,526 3,386 3,130 13,554 11,614
Income tax credits (8,623) (8,623)
Income tax impacts of non-GAAP items (2) (744) (174) (1,245) (1,665) (4,248)
Total adjustments to GAAP net income (loss) (3,798) 2,502 17,112 8,864 59,434
Non-GAAP net income (loss) $ 9,150 $ 4,167 $ (16,367) $ 16,386 $(23,032)
Shares used in computing non-GAAP net income:
Basic 31,919 31,879 32,070 31,859 32,299
Diluted 32,694 32,575 32,070 32,595 32,299
Basic net income (loss) per share:
GAAP $ 0.41 $ 0.05 $ (1.04) $ 0.24 $ (2.55)
Adjustments (0.12) 0.08 0.53 0.27 1.84
Non-GAAP $ 0.29 $ 0.13 $ (0.51) $ 0.51 $ (0.71)
Diluted net income (loss) per share:
GAAP $ 0.40 $ 0.05 $ (1.04) $ 0.23 $ (2.55)
Adjustments (0.12) 0.08 0.53 0.27 1.84
Non-GAAP $ 0.28 $ 0.13 $ (0.51) $ 0.50 $ (0.71)

(1)    Excluded from non-GAAP net income is professional fees for auditors, investigators, lawyers and other outside advisors incurred in excess of $2.2 million for each three-month period presented, as management believes $2.2 million represents approximately one quarter of the Company’s expected annual spending on such professional fees. The actual professional fees incurred may be significantly different than this estimate, and such costs will likely fluctuate significantly from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year.

(2)     Amount represents the income tax effect of the adjustments to GAAP net income (loss).

ABOUT NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES

In addition to the Company’s condensed consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, or GAAP, the Company is providing in this release supplemental non-GAAP net income (loss) and non-GAAP net income (loss) per share as compared to the corresponding financial measures prepared in accordance with GAAP.

The presentation of supplemental non-GAAP financial information, which is not prepared under any comprehensive set of accounting rules or principles, is not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, the financial information prepared and presented in accordance with GAAP. In addition, these measures may be materially different from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies.

The Company is providing these non-GAAP financial measures because it believes that such measures provide important supplemental information to management and investors about its core operating results, primarily because the non-GAAP measures exclude certain charges and credits that management believes that investors benefit by being provided with such information. Company management uses these non-GAAP financial measures, in addition to the corresponding GAAP financial measures, in evaluating the Company’s operating performance, in planning and forecasting future periods, in making decisions regarding business operations and the allocation of resources, and in comparing the Company’s performance against its historical performance. The Company excludes the following items from its non-GAAP financial measures:

Professional fees.  These amounts include certain costs of auditors, investigators, lawyers and other outside advisors, through September 30, 2009, these costs were utilized in connection with: 1) independent accounting investigations, 2) the restatement of certain previously-filed financial statements, and 3) the preparation of the delinquent financial statements necessary to regain SEC reporting compliance. Management has excluded such costs incurred in excess of $2.2 million for each three-month period presented, as it believes $2.2 million represents approximately one quarter of the Company’s estimated annual spending for such professional fees on matters other than those listed above. The actual professional fees incurred in future periods may be significantly different than this estimate, and such costs will likely fluctuate significantly from quarter-to-quarter and year-to-year.

Trade settlements. These credits were recorded upon the settlement of certain disputed trade receivable credits (recorded as an increase in net sales) and trade payable credits (recorded as a reduction of cost of goods sold) received in prior periods, but settled in the period recorded. Although the resolution of disputed trade credits is an ongoing part of the Company’s business, these credits are typically identified and a resolution initiated and completed within a normal operating cycle. During the process of restating its consolidated financial statements and the filing of its December 2006 10-K, the Company identified a significant number of historical credits that lacked sufficient documentation. The Company obtained additional documentation and recorded a higher than typical amount of credits to income in 2009.

ProSys derivative and related settlement. These charges and credits represent amounts recorded under agreements with the former shareholders of ProSys, under which the Company has granted those shareholders rights to put certain shares to the Company and rights to receive cash from the Company upon open market sales under certain conditions. Also included in the fourth quarter of 2009 was a credit recorded upon settlement of a related dispute.

Intangible amortization. These charges reflect the non-cash amortization of certain intangible assets.

Stock-based compensation. These non-cash charges reflect amounts recorded pertaining to stock options and restricted stock units granted under stock-based compensation plans.

Restructuring costs.  At various times in the past, we have implemented restructuring plans to improve operating performance. Restructuring costs consist of estimated expenses associated with workforce reductions, the consolidation of excess facilities and the impairment of leasehold improvements and other equipment associated with abandoned facilities.  While we believe it is important to understand these charges, we do not believe that these charges are indicative of our future operating results.

Amortization of debt discount and issuance costs.  These charges represent the non-cash amortization related to the retrospective adoption of ASC 470-20 and certain issuance costs that are being amortized over the term of the underlying debt.

Income tax credits. The Company recorded credits in the fourth quarter of 2009 related to the reversal of a portion of the valuation allowance previously recorded on certain deferred tax assets. Of the $8.6 million recorded, $2.4 million was pertaining to prior periods, which is considered immaterial.

Income tax impacts of non-GAAP items.  The Company adjusts its provision for income taxes to reflect the tax effects of excluding the non-GAAP items noted above.

All supplemental non-GAAP financial measures are unaudited, and should be read in conjunction with the comparable information presented in accordance with GAAP.

Thursday, March 4th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Bell Microproducts (BELM) Announces Financial Results for the Fourth Quarter and Full Fiscal Year 2009

Coldwater Creek Inc. (CWTR) Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2009 Results Coldwater Creek Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2009 Results

Mar. 3, 2010 (PR Newswire) —

SANDPOINT, Idaho, March 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Coldwater Creek Inc. (Nasdaq: CWTR) today reported financial results for the three-month and twelve-month periods ended January 30, 2010.

Fourth Quarter 2009 Operating Results

    --  Net sales were $318.4 million, compared with $283.2 million in the
        fiscal 2008 fourth quarter. Sales from the retail segment, which
        includes the Company's premium retail stores, outlet stores, and day spa
        locations, were $221.0 million versus $199.7 million in the fiscal 2008
        fourth quarter. Comparable premium store sales increased 8.9 percent in
        the fourth quarter versus the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008.  Direct
        sales (phone and internet) were $97.3 million, compared with $83.5
        million in the same period last year.
    --  Gross profit for the fiscal 2009 fourth quarter was $90.3 million, or
        28.4 percent of net sales, compared with $76.0 million, or 26.8 percent
        of net sales, for the fiscal 2008 fourth quarter. The increase in gross
        profit was primarily due to an increase in merchandise margin and
        leverage of occupancy expenses resulting from higher sales.
    --  Selling, general and administrative expenses for the fiscal 2009 fourth
        quarter were $105.2 million, or 33.0 percent of net sales, compared with
        $110.3 million, or 38.9 percent of net sales, for the fiscal 2008 fourth
        quarter. The decrease in selling, general and administrative expenses of
        approximately $5.1 million was driven by lower employee costs, partially
        offset by higher marketing expense as compared with the fourth quarter
        last year.
    --  Operating loss for the fourth quarter was $15.5 million, reflecting an
        improvement of $18.8 million from an operating loss of $34.3 million for
        the fiscal 2008 fourth quarter.
    --  Net loss for the fourth quarter was $9.7 million, or $0.11 per share,
        compared with net loss of $18.6 million, or $0.20 per share, for the
        fiscal 2008 fourth quarter. Net loss for fourth quarter 2009 included a
        $0.6 million non-cash charge related to certain premium retail store
        asset impairments, or approximately $0.01 per share.

Dennis Pence, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Coldwater Creek, commented, “Our fourth quarter results were significantly ahead of the prior year as we began to see an improvement in our comparable store sales and direct revenue, as well as a modest expansion in merchandise margin. In addition, we continued to focus on expense discipline and ended the quarter with a strong balance sheet. While we are disappointed to report a loss in fiscal 2009, we are confident that we are taking the right steps to position the company for profitability and growth.”

“For fiscal 2010, we expect to improve merchandise margin as we re-balance our assortments, align our pricing with the high quality and fashion inherent in our product lines, and continue to modify our quarterly sale events,” Mr. Pence continued. “In addition, we have a renewed discipline towards inventory management that is focused on ensuring that our inventory investments are aligned with the current economic conditions. At the same time, we will continue to tightly manage expense and capital investments. We expect these efforts to result in a consistent improvement in our operating results in fiscal year 2010.”

Fiscal Year 2009 Operating Results

    --  Net sales were $1,038.6 million, compared with $1,024.2 million in the
        twelve months ended January 31, 2009. Sales from the retail segment,
        which includes the Company's premium retail stores, outlet stores, and
        day spa locations, were $782.4 million versus $751.4 million last year.
        Direct sales (phone and internet) were $256.2 million, compared with
        $272.9 million in the same period last year.
    --  Gross profit for fiscal 2009 was $334.3 million, or 32.2 percent of net
        sales, compared with $350.6 million, or 34.2 percent of net sales, in
        fiscal 2008. The decline in gross profit was primarily due to lower
        merchandise margins resulting from increased promotional activity and
        lower initial markups.
    --  Selling, general and administrative expenses for fiscal 2009 were $378.9
        million, or 36.5 percent of net sales, compared with $395.3 million, or
        38.6 percent of net sales, for fiscal 2008. The decrease in selling,
        general and administrative expenses of approximately $16.5 million was
        primarily related to lower employee costs and reduced marketing expenses
        as well as other related costs, partially offset by $6.0 million in
        expenses related to the separation from the Company's former CEO.
    --  Net loss for fiscal 2009 was $56.1 million, or $0.61 per share, compared
        with a net loss of $26.0 million, or $0.29 per share, in fiscal 2008.
        Results in 2008 include a non-cash charge of $0.9 million after-tax, or
        $0.01 per share, related to the impairment of certain Coldwater Creek
        day spa locations.
    --  Net loss for fiscal 2009 included the following: (i) a $25.3 million
        non-cash income tax charge, or $0.28 per share, related to a valuation
        allowance against net deferred tax assets; (ii) a $3.8 million after-tax
        charge, or $0.04 per share, related to the separation from the Company's
        former CEO; and (iii) a $0.6 million non-cash charge, or approximately
        $0.01 per share, related to premium retail store asset impairments.

Income Tax Valuation Allowance

U.S. GAAP requires that we assess whether a valuation allowance should be established against our deferred tax assets based on the consideration of all available evidence using a “more likely than not” standard. In making such judgments, significant weight is given to evidence that can be objectively verified. A company’s current or previous losses are given more weight than its projected future performance. Consequently, based on available evidence, in particular our three-year historical cumulative losses, we recorded a valuation allowance against our net deferred tax asset in the third quarter of fiscal 2009. The recording of a valuation allowance has no impact on cash and does not preclude the company from utilizing the full amount of the deferred tax asset in future profitable periods.

Balance Sheet Highlights:

    --  Cash totaled $84.7 million, compared with $81.2 million at the end of
        fiscal 2008.
    --  Premium retail store inventory per square foot, including retail
        inventory in the distribution center, increased approximately 20.0
        percent compared to January 31, 2009.
    --  Total inventory increased to $161.5 million, compared to $135.4 million
        at the end of fiscal 2008.
    --  Working capital was $98.7 million, compared to $93.0 million as of
        January 31, 2009.

Store Openings

The Company opened no new premium retail stores during the three-month period ended January 30, 2010, ending the year with 356 premium retail stores. The Company plans to open approximately 20 new retail stores in fiscal 2010.

Outlook

The Company expects to report a loss in the first quarter of fiscal 2010, however, it expects an improvement over the $0.08 loss per share in the first quarter of fiscal 2009. This assumes a mid-single digit year-over-year increase in total net sales. For fiscal 2010, the company expects to report earnings per share of between $0.08 and $0.12, with the majority of the earnings growth coming in the second half of the year. This compares to actual fiscal 2009 loss per share of $0.61, which includes costs of $0.33 per share related to the income tax valuation allowance, separation agreement charges, and non-cash asset impairment charges.

Conference Call Information

Coldwater Creek will host a conference call on Wednesday, March 3, 2010, at 4:30 p.m. (Eastern) to discuss fiscal 2009 fourth quarter and full year results. To listen to the live Web cast, log on to http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?p=irol-eventDetails&c=92631&ev

entID=2750365. Also, a link to the live Web cast of the call is provided in the Investor Relations section of the Company’s Web site at http://www.coldwatercreek.com/. The call will be archived from approximately one hour after the conference call until Wednesday, March 17, 2010. The replay can be accessed by dialing (877) 660-6853 and giving account number 3055 and the passcode 344841. A replay and transcript of the call will also be available in the investor relations section of the Company’s Web site.

Founded in 1984, and headquartered in Sandpoint, Idaho, Coldwater Creek is a leading specialty retailer of women’s apparel, gifts, jewelry, and accessories. The company sells its merchandise through premium retail stores across the country, online at coldwatercreek.com and through its catalogs.

CAUTIONARY STATEMENT REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION:

This news release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the securities laws, including statements relating to our expected financial results for the first fiscal quarter and fiscal year of 2010. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to a number of uncertainties, risks and assumptions that may not fully materialize or may prove incorrect. As a result, our actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from estimates or projections contained in the forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to:

    --  the inherent difficulty predicting the effectiveness of promotional
        discounting, as well as the difficulty in forecasting consumer buying
        and retail traffic patterns and trends, which continue to be erratic and
        are affected by factors beyond our control, such as severe weather, the
        current macroeconomic conditions, high unemployment, continuing heavy
        promotional activity in the specialty retail marketplace, and
        competitive conditions and the possibility that because of lower than
        expected customer response, or because of competitive pricing pressures,
        we may be required to sell merchandise at lower than expected margins,
        or at a loss;
    --  the possibility that our sales and earnings projections will not be
        realized, due to changing business and economic conditions;
    --  our potential inability to recover the substantial fixed costs of our
        retail store base due to sluggish sales;
    --  our potential inability to continue to fund our operations solely with
        operating cash as a result of either lower sales or higher than
        anticipated costs, or both;
    --  delays we may encounter in sourcing merchandise from our foreign and
        domestic vendors, including the potential inability of our vendors to
        finance production of the goods we order; risks related to our foreign
        sourcing strategy; and the possibility that foreign sourcing may not
        lead to any reduction of our sourcing costs or improvement in our
        margins;
    --  the effect of volatile energy costs on various aspects of our business,
        including shipping, transportation, merchandise acquisition and consumer
        spending;
    --  increasing competition from discount retailers and companies that have
        introduced concepts or products similar to ours;
    --  difficulties encountered in anticipating and managing customer returns
        and the possibility that customer returns will be greater than expected;
    --  the inherent difficulties in catalog management, for which we incur
        substantial costs prior to mailing that we may not be able to recover,
        and the possibility of unanticipated increases in mailing and printing
        costs;
    --  unexpected costs or problems associated with our efforts to manage our
        expanding and increasingly complex business, including our current
        efforts to improve key management information systems and controls;
    --  the risk that the benefits expected from our strategic initiatives will
        not be achieved or may take longer to achieve than we expect;

and such other factors as are discussed in our most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). We believe that these forward-looking statements are reasonable; however, you should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations and speak only as of the date of this release. We do not assume any obligation to publicly release any revisions to forward-looking statements to reflect events or changes in our expectations occurring after the date of this release.

                      COLDWATER CREEK INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
         CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS AND SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
    (unaudited, in thousands except for per share data and store counts) 

                            Three Months Ended         Fiscal Year Ended
                            ------------------         -----------------
                         January 30,  January 31,  January 30,  January 31,
    Statements of
     Operations:                2010         2009         2010         2009
                                ----         ----         ----         ---- 

    Net sales               $318,364     $283,229   $1,038,581   $1,024,221
    Cost of sales            228,040      207,231      704,300      673,661
                             -------      -------      -------      -------
        Gross profit          90,324       75,998      334,281      350,560
    Selling, general and
     administrative
     expenses                105,187      110,299      378,852      395,320
    Loss on asset
     impairments                 607            -          607        1,452
                                 ---          ---          ---        -----
        Loss from
         operations          (15,470)     (34,301)     (45,178)     (46,212)
    Interest, net, and
     other                      (239)          65         (797)       1,508
                                ----           --         ----        -----
        Loss before
         income taxes        (15,709)     (34,236)     (45,975)     (44,704)
    Income tax provision
     (benefit)                (6,031)     (15,683)      10,157      (18,741)
                              ------      -------       ------      -------
        Net loss             $(9,678)    $(18,553)    $(56,132)    $(25,963)
                             =======     ========     ========     ======== 

        Net loss per share -
             Basic and
         Diluted              $(0.11)      $(0.20)      $(0.61)      $(0.29)
                              ======       ======       ======       ====== 

        Weighted average
         shares outstanding -
         Basic and Diluted    92,081       91,213       91,597       91,037 

    Supplemental Data:
                            Three Months Ended         Fiscal Year Ended
                            ------------------         -----------------
                         January 30,  January 31,  January 30,  January 31,
    Operating                2010         2009         2010         2009
    Statistics:              ----         ----         ----         ---- 

    Catalogs mailed         33,989       27,083       91,365       85,950
    Premium retail
     store count                                         356          348
    Spa store count                                        9            9
    Outlet store count                                    36           35
    Premium retail store
     square footage                                    2,108        2,055 

                            Three Months Ended         Fiscal Year Ended
                            ------------------         -----------------
                         January 30,  January 31,  January 30,  January 31,
    Segment Net Sales:       2010         2009         2010         2009
                             ----         ----         ----         ---- 

    Retail                  $221,026     $199,702     $782,429     $751,352
    Direct                    97,338       83,527      256,152      272,869
                              ------       ------      -------      -------
      Total                 $318,364     $283,229   $1,038,581   $1,024,221
                            ========     ========   ==========   ========== 

                 COLDWATER CREEK INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                      CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
           (unaudited, in thousands, except for share data)       

                                ASSETS                            

                                           January 30,  January 31,
                                               2010         2009
                                               ----         ----
    CURRENT ASSETS:
        Cash and cash equivalents            $84,650      $81,230
        Receivables                            5,977       15,991
        Inventories                          161,546      135,376
        Prepaid and other                      9,385       11,086
        Income taxes recoverable              12,074       14,895
        Prepaid and deferred marketing
         costs                                 5,867        5,361
        Deferred income taxes                  6,797        9,792
                                               -----        ----- 

             Total current assets            286,296      273,731 

    Property and equipment, net              295,012      337,766
    Deferred income taxes                          -       14,147
    Restricted cash                              890        1,776
    Other                                      1,184        1,207
                                               -----        ----- 

             Total assets                   $583,382     $628,627
                                            ========     ======== 

                       LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY       

    CURRENT LIABILITIES:
        Accounts payable                     $99,786      $93,355
        Accrued liabilities                   82,551       82,469
        Current deferred marketing fees and
         revenue sharing                       5,215        4,918
                                               -----        ----- 

      Total current liabilities              187,552      180,742 

    Deferred rents                           125,337      137,216
    Capital lease and other financing
     obligations                              11,454       13,316
    Supplemental Employee Retirement
     Plan                                      9,202        7,807
    Deferred marketing fees and revenue
     sharing                                   7,149        5,823
    Deferred income taxes                      6,480            -
    Other                                        647        1,227
                                                 ---        ----- 

      Total liabilities                      347,821      346,131
                                             -------      ------- 

    Commitments and
     contingencies                                                

    STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
        Preferred stock, $.01 par value,
         1,000,000 shares
         authorized,
         none issued and outstanding               -            -
        Common stock, $.01 par value,
         300,000,000 shares
         authorized,
         92,163,597 and 91,264,527 shares
          issued, respectively                   922          913
        Additional paid-in capital           124,148      115,921
        Accumulated other comprehensive
         loss                                   (373)      (1,334)
        Retained earnings                    110,864      166,996
                                             -------      ------- 

      Total stockholders' equity             235,561      282,496
                                             -------      ------- 

      Total liabilities and
       stockholders' equity                 $583,382     $628,627
                                            ========     ======== 

           COLDWATER CREEK INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
           CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                 (unaudited, in thousands)             

                                     Fiscal Year Ended
                                     -----------------
                                  January 30,  January 31,
                                     2010         2009
                                     ----         ---- 

    OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
    Net loss                     $(56,132)    $(25,963)
    Adjustments to reconcile net
     loss to net cash provided by
      operating activities:
        Depreciation and
         amortization              63,721       61,811
        Stock-based compensation
         expense                    6,718        4,779
        Supplemental Employee
         Retirement Plan
         expense                    3,011        1,293
        Deferred income taxes      22,842       (8,930)
        Excess tax benefit from
         exercises of stock
         options                     (650)         (82)
        Net loss on asset
         dispositions               1,120          405
        Loss on asset
         impairments                  607        1,452
        Other                         211          318
    Net change in current assets
     and liabilities:
        Receivables                10,014       12,529
        Inventories               (26,170)       4,617
        Prepaid and other and
         income taxes
         recoverable                3,847        6,199
        Prepaid and deferred
         marketing costs             (506)       8,301
        Accounts payable            6,729       23,126
        Accrued liabilities          (276)      (7,472)
        Income taxes payable            -            -
    Change in deferred
     marketing fees and
     revenue sharing                1,623       (1,575)
    Change in deferred rents      (11,285)      16,353
    Other changes in non-
     current assets and
     liabilities                     (799)      (1,628)
                                     ----       ------
          Net cash provided by
           operating
           activities              24,625       95,533
                                   ------       ------ 

    INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
         Purchase of property and
          equipment               (21,681)     (81,215)
         Proceeds from asset
          dispositions                 58        3,086
         Change in restricted
          cash                        886          888
                                      ---          ---
          Net cash used in
           investing
           activities             (20,737)     (77,241)
                                  -------      ------- 

    FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
        Proceeds from exercises
         of stock options and
         ESPP purchases             1,223        1,318
        Excess tax benefit from
         exercises of stock
         options                      650           82
        Payments on capital
         lease and other
         financing
         obligations               (1,723)        (941)
        Credit facility
         financing costs             (618)           -
        Purchase and retirement
         of treasury stock              -            -
                                     ----         ----
          Net cash provided by
           (used in) financing
           activities                (468)         459
                                     ----          --- 

            Net increase in cash
             and cash equivalents   3,420       18,751
                Cash and cash
                 equivalents,
                 beginning         81,230       62,479
                                   ------       ------ 

            Cash and cash
             equivalents,
             ending               $84,650      $81,230
                                  =======      =======
Thursday, March 4th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Coldwater Creek Inc. (CWTR) Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2009 Results Coldwater Creek Announces Fourth Quarter and Fiscal 2009 Results

SinoCoking (SCOK) Commences Construction of New Coking Facility

Mar. 3, 2010 (Business Wire) — SinoCoking Coal and Coke Chemical Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ:SCOK) (the “company” or “SinoCoking”) today announced that it broke ground today on the construction of its new state-of-the-art coking facility in Pingdingshan city, in Henan Province, China. The new coking facility, which will cost an estimated $70 million to complete, is expected to launch production of metallurgical and chemical coke, coal gas, and various chemical products by early 2011. The cleaner, more efficient coking facility will have an anticipated maximum annual production capacity of 900,000 metric tons of coke. SinoCoking management projects that if completed as planned, the launch of the new facility could result in a five-fold or more increase in the company’s annual coke production and sales volume from the fiscal year 2012 and beyond, compared to current levels.

SinoCoking presently relies on its three parallel WG-86 type coke ovens, which have certain technical limitations. SinoCoking’s current facilities have a production capacity of up to 250,000 metric tons per year.

The new coking facility will be capable of utilizing a broader range of coal inputs compared to the company’s existing plant, with even lower thermal properties (a G-index as low as 50). Since the average cost of inputs will decrease, this is expected to enable SinoCoking to produce coke at a better profit margin. The new facility is also expected to generate an additional 66.5 million Kilowatt hours of electricity each year from the conversion of heat emitted from the coal-gas powered system, which is used to power steam generators. The new facility will also produce purified coal gas as a fuel source for use by city residents. These two byproducts alone could result in an additional estimated $43 to $62 million in projected incremental revenue per year for SinoCoking, based on current energy prices and currency translation rates. The company’s plans to provide coal gas to local residents have received approval from the city of Daying, which will involve providing coal gas to consumers at a price per thermal equivalent unit that is 20% less than the current price of liquid natural gas (LNG), a competing alternative. In addition, SinoCoking anticipates that the new coking facility will expand its product portfolio, enabling it to offer its customers other products such as crude benzol, sulfur, and ammonium sulfate.

“We view this as a key step in the implementation of our growth strategy,” said Jianhua Lv, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SinoCoking. “Power and fuel scarcity, as well as environmental side effects of industrial growth, are key issues in China today. Our new coking facility project helps to address these issues, and that is why our project is strongly supported by our local and provincial governments. Furthermore, the completion of this project would enable us to produce our coke products with even greater efficiency, and will provide expanded revenue opportunities to SinoCoking. We look forward to the completion of this project, to further solidify our leadership position in the regional market.”

SinoCoking is a supplier of the vital commodities of thermal and metallurgical coal and coke to industrial users such as power plants, steel mills, plant and factory operators and manufacturers in China. The Company is a vertically-integrated processor that uses coal from both its own mines and that of third-party mines to provide basic and value-added coal products to its customer base. SinoCoking began producing metallurgical coke in 2002, and since then has expanded its production to become an important supplier to regional steel producers in central China.

About SinoCoking

SinoCoking Coal and Coke Chemical Industries, Inc., a Florida corporation (NASDAQ: SCOK), is a vertically-integrated coal and coke processor that uses coal from both its own mines and that of third-party mines to produce basic and value-added coal products for steel manufacturers, power generators, and various industrial users. SinoCoking currently has mining rights and capacity to extract 300,000 tons of coal per year from mines located in the Henan Province in central China. SinoCoking has been producing metallurgical coke since 2002, and acts as a key supplier to regional steel producers in central China. SinoCoking, a Florida corporation, owns its assets and conducts its operations through its subsidiaries, Top Favour Limited, a British Virgin Islands holding company; Pingdingshan Hongyuan Energy Science; and Technology Development Co., Ltd. (“Hongyuan”); Henan Province Pingdingshan Hongli Coal & Coke Co., Ltd. (“Hongli”); Baofeng Coking Factory; Baofeng Hongchang Coal Co., Ltd.; and Baofeng Hongguang Environment Protection Electricity Generating Co., Ltd.

For further information about SinoCoking, please refer to the Definitive Proxy Statement of the Company (previously named Ableauctions.com, Inc.) filed on Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 27, 2009.

This press release contains forward-looking statements, particularly as related to, among other things, the business plans of the Company, statements relating to goals, plans and projections regarding the Company’s financial position and business strategy. The words or phrases “plans”, “would be,” “will allow,” “intends to,” “may result,” “are expected to,” “will continue,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimate,” “project,” “indicate,” “could,” “potentially,” “should,” “believe,” “think”, “considers” or similar expressions are intended to identify “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements fall within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934 and are subject to the safe harbor created by these sections. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, involve known and unknown risks, a reliance on third parties for information, transactions or orders that may be cancelled, and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in our industry, to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results include risks and uncertainties related to the fluctuation of local, regional, and global economic conditions, the performance of management and our employees, our ability to obtain financing, competition, general economic conditions and other factors that are detailed in our periodic reports and on documents we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements made herein are as of the date of this press release and should not be relied upon as of any subsequent date. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on such statements. The Company does not undertake, and the Company specifically disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences, developments, unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statement. Actual results may differ materially from the Company’s expectations and estimates. The Company provides no assurances that any potential acquisitions will actually be consummated, or if consummated that such acquisitions will be on terms and conditions anticipated on the date of this press release, and the Company makes no assurances with regard to any results of any such acquisitions.

Thursday, March 4th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on SinoCoking (SCOK) Commences Construction of New Coking Facility

Keegan Resources Inc. (KGN) Drilling to Commence at Asumura Gold Property

Press Release Source: Keegan Resources Inc. On Wednesday March 3, 2010, 8:00 am EST

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA–(Marketwire – 03/03/10) – Keegan (TSX:KGNNews)(AMEX:KGNNews) is pleased to announce that drilling is set to commence at its 280 square km Asumura gold property in southwest Ghana in the second half of March. In the past year, Keegan has been integrating all of its recently obtained geophysical and geochemical information in order to develop specific target models that place past prospective intercepts into a coherent model. Keegan plans to drill a minimum 4000 meters of core holes focusing on five primary target areas. Please see www.keeganresources.com for further details of the proposed program.

At Esaase, Keegan currently has two UDR 900 drills operating, one focused on development drilling and the other on exploration. Additional results will be released when available. Keegan would also like to mention that the Esaase deposit Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) study is on track and should be released by the end of Q1 2010.

CORPORATE UPDATE:

Keegan is also pleased to announce the appointment of Ben Adoo as Managing Director of its wholly owned Ghana subsidiary, where he will act as Keegan’s Ghana country manager. Ben is a mining engineer who graduated from the Camborne School of Mines in 1971 and completed a masters in engineering at McGill University in 1987. Ben has almost four decades of underground gold and surface bauxite mining experience in Ghana. He was former Managing Director, Ghana Bauxite Co. Ltd., a subsidiary of Alcan Inc., former General Manager of Prestea, Tarkwa and Dukwa Goldfields in Ghana and is a past President and Honorary Member of Council of the Ghana Chamber of Mines. Ben has acted as a representative of Ghana’s mining community on many occasions, including a recent role with the World Bank study on “The Mining Sector and Business Sector Development in Burkina Faso”.

Keegan would also like to announce the resignation of Richard Haslinger, P.Eng. as director of the Company. Mr. Haslinger will be remaining with Keegan and continuing to act as V.P of Exploration. The board would like to thank Mr. Haslinger for his years of service and look forward to the continued relationship.

The board of directors has appointed and welcomes Shawn Wallace as Executive Chairman and director of the company. Mr. Wallace brings over 20 years of mineral exploration, development and corporate experience.

President and CEO, Dan McCoy states: “Keegan is pleased to be recommencing drilling at Asumura. We believe that in addition to targeting the potential extent of mineralization discovered in our last drilling program in the NW structure, we have exciting new drill-ready targets revealed by our recent geophysics and soil auger programs. We also look forward to new exploration results and the completion of our PEA at Esaase. On the personnel front, we are very pleased and proud to welcome Ben Adoo, who has enormous stature in the Ghana mining community and a sterling reputation based on his experience, intellect and integrity. Shawn Wallace is an experienced corporate strategist, and we look forward to having the benefit of his experience of being involved with numerous successful projects in his position as Director and Executive Chairman.”

About Keegan Resources

Keegan is a junior gold company offering investors the opportunity to share ownership in the rapid exploration and development of high quality pure gold assets. The Company is focused on its wholly owned flagship Esaase project (2.025 Moz indicated resources with an average grade of 1.5 g/t Au at a 0.6 g/t Au cutoff and 1.451 million ounces in an inferred category at an average grade of 1.6 g/t Au applying a 0.6 g/t Au cut-off for a total inferred and indicated resource of 3.476 Moz) as well as its Asumura gold project, both of which are located in Ghana, West Africa, a highly favorable and prospective jurisdiction. Managed by highly skilled and successful technical and financial professionals, Keegan is well financed with no debt. Keegan is also strongly committed to the highest standards for environmental management, social responsibility, and health and safety for its employees and neighboring communities. Keegan trades on the TSX and the NYSE AMEX under the symbol KGN. More information about Keegan is available at www.keeganresources.com.

On Behalf of the Board

Dan McCoy, Ph.D., President & CEO

Forward Looking and other Cautionary Information

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed “forward-looking statements”. All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address estimated resource quantities, grades and contained metals, possible future mining, exploration and development activities, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way construed as guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include market prices for metals, the conclusions of detailed feasibility and technical analyses, lower than expected grades and quantities of resources, mining rates and recovery rates and the lack of availability of necessary capital, which may not be available to the Company on terms acceptable to it or at all. The Company is subject to the specific risks inherent in the mining business as well as general economic and business conditions. For more information on the Company, Investors should review the Company’s annual Form 20-F filing with the United States Securities Commission and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedar.com.

Information Concerning Estimates of Measured, Indicated and Inferred Resources This news release also uses the terms ‘indicated resources’ and ‘inferred resources’. Keegan Resources Inc. advises investors that although these terms are recognized and required by Canadian regulations (under National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects), the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission does not recognize them. Investors are cautioned not to assume that any part or all of the mineral deposits in these categories will ever be converted into reserves. In addition, ‘inferred resources’ have a great amount of uncertainty as to their existence, and economic and legal feasibility. It cannot be assumed that all or any part of an Inferred Mineral Resource will ever be upgraded to a higher category. Under Canadian rules, estimates of Inferred Mineral Resources may not form the basis of feasibility or pre-feasibility studies, or economic studies except for Preliminary Assessment as defined under 43-101. Investors are cautioned not to assume that part or all of an inferred resource exists, or is economically or legally mineable.

To view the map associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/kgn_0303_map_link.pdf

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Keegan Resources Inc. (KGN) Drilling to Commence at Asumura Gold Property

SinoCoking (SCOK) Commences Construction of New Coking Facility

Mar. 3, 2010 (Business Wire) — SinoCoking Coal and Coke Chemical Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ:SCOK) (the “company” or “SinoCoking”) today announced that it broke ground today on the construction of its new state-of-the-art coking facility in Pingdingshan city, in Henan Province, China. The new coking facility, which will cost an estimated $70 million to complete, is expected to launch production of metallurgical and chemical coke, coal gas, and various chemical products by early 2011. The cleaner, more efficient coking facility will have an anticipated maximum annual production capacity of 900,000 metric tons of coke. SinoCoking management projects that if completed as planned, the launch of the new facility could result in a five-fold or more increase in the company’s annual coke production and sales volume from the fiscal year 2012 and beyond, compared to current levels.

SinoCoking presently relies on its three parallel WG-86 type coke ovens, which have certain technical limitations. SinoCoking’s current facilities have a production capacity of up to 250,000 metric tons per year.

The new coking facility will be capable of utilizing a broader range of coal inputs compared to the company’s existing plant, with even lower thermal properties (a G-index as low as 50). Since the average cost of inputs will decrease, this is expected to enable SinoCoking to produce coke at a better profit margin. The new facility is also expected to generate an additional 66.5 million Kilowatt hours of electricity each year from the conversion of heat emitted from the coal-gas powered system, which is used to power steam generators. The new facility will also produce purified coal gas as a fuel source for use by city residents. These two byproducts alone could result in an additional estimated $43 to $62 million in projected incremental revenue per year for SinoCoking, based on current energy prices and currency translation rates. The company’s plans to provide coal gas to local residents have received approval from the city of Daying, which will involve providing coal gas to consumers at a price per thermal equivalent unit that is 20% less than the current price of liquid natural gas (LNG), a competing alternative. In addition, SinoCoking anticipates that the new coking facility will expand its product portfolio, enabling it to offer its customers other products such as crude benzol, sulfur, and ammonium sulfate.

“We view this as a key step in the implementation of our growth strategy,” said Jianhua Lv, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SinoCoking. “Power and fuel scarcity, as well as environmental side effects of industrial growth, are key issues in China today. Our new coking facility project helps to address these issues, and that is why our project is strongly supported by our local and provincial governments. Furthermore, the completion of this project would enable us to produce our coke products with even greater efficiency, and will provide expanded revenue opportunities to SinoCoking. We look forward to the completion of this project, to further solidify our leadership position in the regional market.”

SinoCoking is a supplier of the vital commodities of thermal and metallurgical coal and coke to industrial users such as power plants, steel mills, plant and factory operators and manufacturers in China. The Company is a vertically-integrated processor that uses coal from both its own mines and that of third-party mines to provide basic and value-added coal products to its customer base. SinoCoking began producing metallurgical coke in 2002, and since then has expanded its production to become an important supplier to regional steel producers in central China.

About SinoCoking

SinoCoking Coal and Coke Chemical Industries, Inc., a Florida corporation (NASDAQ: SCOK), is a vertically-integrated coal and coke processor that uses coal from both its own mines and that of third-party mines to produce basic and value-added coal products for steel manufacturers, power generators, and various industrial users. SinoCoking currently has mining rights and capacity to extract 300,000 tons of coal per year from mines located in the Henan Province in central China. SinoCoking has been producing metallurgical coke since 2002, and acts as a key supplier to regional steel producers in central China. SinoCoking, a Florida corporation, owns its assets and conducts its operations through its subsidiaries, Top Favour Limited, a British Virgin Islands holding company; Pingdingshan Hongyuan Energy Science; and Technology Development Co., Ltd. (“Hongyuan”); Henan Province Pingdingshan Hongli Coal & Coke Co., Ltd. (“Hongli”); Baofeng Coking Factory; Baofeng Hongchang Coal Co., Ltd.; and Baofeng Hongguang Environment Protection Electricity Generating Co., Ltd.

For further information about SinoCoking, please refer to the Definitive Proxy Statement of the Company (previously named Ableauctions.com, Inc.) filed on Schedule 14A with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 27, 2009.

This press release contains forward-looking statements, particularly as related to, among other things, the business plans of the Company, statements relating to goals, plans and projections regarding the Company’s financial position and business strategy. The words or phrases “plans”, “would be,” “will allow,” “intends to,” “may result,” “are expected to,” “will continue,” “anticipates,” “expects,” “estimate,” “project,” “indicate,” “could,” “potentially,” “should,” “believe,” “think”, “considers” or similar expressions are intended to identify “forward-looking statements.” These forward-looking statements fall within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Act of 1934 and are subject to the safe harbor created by these sections. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of a number of risks and uncertainties. Such forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, involve known and unknown risks, a reliance on third parties for information, transactions or orders that may be cancelled, and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements, or developments in our industry, to differ materially from the anticipated results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from anticipated results include risks and uncertainties related to the fluctuation of local, regional, and global economic conditions, the performance of management and our employees, our ability to obtain financing, competition, general economic conditions and other factors that are detailed in our periodic reports and on documents we file from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Statements made herein are as of the date of this press release and should not be relied upon as of any subsequent date. The Company cautions readers not to place undue reliance on such statements. The Company does not undertake, and the Company specifically disclaims any obligation, to update any forward-looking statements to reflect occurrences, developments, unanticipated events or circumstances after the date of such statement. Actual results may differ materially from the Company’s expectations and estimates. The Company provides no assurances that any potential acquisitions will actually be consummated, or if consummated that such acquisitions will be on terms and conditions anticipated on the date of this press release, and the Company makes no assurances with regard to any results of any such acquisitions.

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on SinoCoking (SCOK) Commences Construction of New Coking Facility

Novell (NOVL) Confirms Receipt of Unsolicited, Conditional Proposal From Elliott Associates

Mar. 2, 2010 (PR Newswire) —

WALTHAM, Mass., March 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Novell, Inc. (Nasdaq: NOVL) today confirmed that it has received an unsolicited, conditional proposal from Elliott Associates, L.P. to acquire the Company for $5.75 per share in cash. Novell anticipates that its Board of Directors will review Elliott’s proposal in consultation with its financial and legal advisors. J.P. Morgan is serving as financial advisor and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP is acting as legal counsel to Novell.

About Novell

Novell, Inc. (NASDAQ: NOVL) delivers an interoperable Linux* platform and a portfolio of integrated IT management software designed to help customers around the world reduce cost, complexity and risk. With our infrastructure software and ecosystem of partnerships, Novell harmoniously integrates mixed IT environments, allowing people and technology to work as one. For more information, visit www.novell.com.

Novell and the Novell logo are registered trademarks and SLES is a trademark of Novell, Inc. in the United States and other countries. *All third party marks are the property of their respective owners.

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Novell (NOVL) Confirms Receipt of Unsolicited, Conditional Proposal From Elliott Associates

UFP Technologies (UFPT) Announces Strong 2009 Results

Mar. 3, 2010 (Business Wire) — UFP Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: UFPT), a manufacturer of packaging and component products, today reported net income of $5.9 million or $0.94 per diluted common share outstanding for its fiscal year ended December 31, 2009, 16% higher than net income of $5.1 million or $0.82 per diluted common share outstanding for its fiscal year 2008. Sales for 2009 were $99.2 million or 9.8% less than 2008 sales of $110 million.

For its fourth quarter ended December 31, 2009, the Company reported net income of $2.9 million or $0.45 per diluted common share outstanding, compared to net income of $1.1 million or $0.19 per diluted common share outstanding in the same period in 2008. Sales for the fourth quarter of 2009 were $29.0 million or 11.4% higher than 2008 fourth quarter sales of $26.1 million.

“I am very pleased with our strong finish to 2009,” said R. Jeffrey Bailly, Chairman & CEO. “Solid demand in our medical and military markets, coupled with the positive impact of our now fully integrated acquisitions, enabled us to generate record profits.”

“These results are a testament to our company’s depth and our responsiveness to changing market conditions and growth opportunities,” Bailly said. “Early in 2009, we scaled back the business in the face of significantly reduced customer demand. Yet we maintained the ability to identify exciting acquisition candidates, quickly close the transactions, and efficiently integrate those businesses.”

“We finished the year in excellent financial condition. With $15 million in cash, we are well positioned to grow our business both internally and through additional strategic acquisitions,” Bailly added. “This, combined with improving customer demand, leaves me optimistic about 2010 and beyond.”

UFP Technologies is a leading designer and manufacturer of interior protective packaging solutions using molded fiber, vacuum-formed plastics, and molded and fabricated foam plastics. The Company also designs and manufactures engineered component solutions using laminating, molding, and fabricating technologies. The Company primarily serves the automotive, computers and electronics, medical, aerospace and defense, consumer, and industrial markets.

This news release contains forward-looking information that involves risks and uncertainties, including statements about the Company’s prospects, anticipated advantages the Company expects to realize from its acquisition strategies, the Company’s growth potential and strategies for growth, and statements about customer demand. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties, including without limitation risks associated with the identification of suitable acquisition candidates and the successful, efficient execution of acquisition transactions and integration of any such acquisition candidates, as well as other risks and uncertainties that are detailed in the documents filed by the Company with the SEC. Accordingly, actual results may differ materially. Readers are referred to the documents filed by the Company with the SEC, specifically the last reports on Forms 10-K and 10-Q. The forward-looking statements contained herein speak only of the Company’s expectations as of the date of this press release. The Company expressly disclaims any obligation or undertaking to release publicly any updates or revisions to any such statement to reflect any change in the Company’s expectations or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based.

Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income

($ in thousands, except Per Share Data)

Unaudited
Three Months Ended Twelve Months Ended
31-Dec-09 31-Dec-08 31-Dec-09 31-Dec-08
Net sales $ 29,044 $ 26,066 $ 99,231 $ 110,032
Cost of sales 20,093 19,429 72,512 81,469
Gross profit 8,951 6,637 26,719 28,563
SG&A 4,662 3,982 18,539 18,823
Restructuring charge 909 1,315
Operating income 4,289 1,746 8,180 8,425
Gain on acquisitions 840
Interest expense, other income & expenses (46 ) (43 ) (221 ) (270 )
Income before income taxes 4,243 1,703 8,799 8,155
Income taxes 1,327 562 2,817 2,995
Net income from consolidated operations $ 2,916 $ 1,141 $ 5,982 $ 5,160
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests $ (10 ) $ 5 $ (53 ) $ (44 )
Net income attributable to UFP Technologies, Inc. $ 2,906 $ 1,146 $ 5,929 $ 5,116
Weighted average shares outstanding 5,920 5,640 5,830 5,550
Weighted average diluted shares outstanding 6,497 6,112 6,294 6,263
Per Share Data
Net income per share outstanding $ 0.49 $ 0.20 $ 1.02 $ 0.92
Net income per diluted share outstanding $ 0.45 $ 0.19 $ 0.94 $ 0.82
Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets

($ in thousands)

Assets: 31-Dec-09 31-Dec-08
Cash $ 14,999 $ 6,729
Receivables 14,218 12,755
Inventories 7,647 8,153
Other current assets 1,887 2,005
Net property, plant, and equipment 12,218 11,754
Other assets 8,483 7,327
Total assets $ 59,452 $ 48,723
Liabilities and equity:
Short-term debt $ 623 $ 1,420
Accounts payable 4,274 3,304
Other current liabilities 6,153 6,229
Long-term debt 7,502 4,852
Other liabilities 1,895 1,027
Total liabilities 20,447 16,832
Total equity 39,005 31,891
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 59,452 $ 48,723

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on UFP Technologies (UFPT) Announces Strong 2009 Results

Trintech (TTPA) Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2010 Financial Results

Mar. 2, 2010 (GlobeNewswire) —

  • Revenues of $7.9 million, Adjusted EBITDA Net Income of $1.4 million and Net Income of $910,000 for the Fourth Quarter 2010 from Continuing Operations.
  • Revenues of $32.5 million, Adjusted EBITDA Net Income of $4.9 million and Net Income of $2.6 million for the Year Ended January 31, 2010 from Continuing Operations.
  • Agreement to sell Healthcare Division for $34.5 million in cash.

DUBLIN, Ireland and DALLAS, March 2, 2010 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trintech Group Plc (Nasdaq:TTPA) today announced revenues of $7.9 million for the fourth quarter ended January 31, 2010, an adjusted EBITDA net income of $1.4 million and net income for the quarter of $910,000 from continuing operations. For the year ended January 31, 2010, the company recorded revenues of $32.5 million, an adjusted EBITDA net income of $4.9 million and net income of $2.6 million from continuing operations. It also announced that it has signed a definitive agreement for the sale of its healthcare division, Concuity, to The Advisory Board Company (Nasdaq:ABCO) for $34.5 million in cash. Under the terms of the agreement, The Advisory Board Company will pay Trintech $34.5 million cash for all of the outstanding shares of a newly formed Trintech subsidiary which, prior to closing, will hold the majority of the assets and liabilities of the Concuity business. The purchase price is subject to a working capital adjustment at the closing date and an escrow amount of $6 million to be set aside with $2 million being released after 9 months and the remainder no later than December 31, 2011, subject to the satisfaction of post-closing conditions. The sale has been approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies and is subject to customary closing conditions. Trintech expects the sale will be completed within one month.

Due to the sale of its healthcare division to The Advisory Board Company, Trintech is required to present its financial results on a continuing and discontinued basis. This requirement has resulted in the presentation of financial results showing fourth quarter and the full fiscal year for the continuing business (the Financial Governance, Risk and Compliance or GRC business).

Highlights:

  • Revenues from continuing operations amounted to $7.9 million for Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year which was unchanged compared to Q4 of the prior year.
  • Revenues from continuing operations fell 5% for the 2010 fiscal year to $32.5 million compared to $34.3 million in the prior year.
  • Trintech generated an adjusted EBITDA net income from continuing operations of $1.4 million for Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year compared to an adjusted EBITDA net income from continuing operations of $649,000 for the corresponding period in the prior year. Adjusted EBITDA basic and diluted net income from continuing operations per equivalent ADS was $0.08 for Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year compared to $0.04 for the same period in the prior year.
  • Trintech generated an adjusted EBITDA net income from continuing operations of $4.9 million for the 2010 fiscal year compared to an adjusted EBITDA net income from continuing operations of $2.6 million in the prior year. Adjusted basic and diluted EBITDA net income from continuing operations per equivalent ADS was $0.30 for the 2010 fiscal year compared to $0.16 for the prior year.
  • Trintech generated $2.6 million cash for the 2010 fiscal year and increased its cash balances to $20.1 million (including restricted cash of $170,000) at the end of the year. Cash generated was $1.2 million for Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year compared to $523,000 for the same period in the prior year.
  • Gross margin from continuing operations amounted to $5.7 million in Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year, representing 73% of revenues, compared to $5.5 million and 70% in Q4 of the prior year.
  • Gross margin from continuing operations amounted to $23.6 million in the 2010 fiscal year representing 73% of revenues, compared to $24.4 million and 71% in the prior year.
  • Trintech increased expenditure in research and development from continuing operations by 8% from $1.0 million in Q4 of the 2009 fiscal year to $1.1 million in the same quarter in the 2010 fiscal year. Research and development expenditure from continuing operations was down by less than 1% in the 2010 fiscal year compared with the prior fiscal year.
  • Trintech reduced expenditure in sales and marketing from continuing operations by 19% from $2.2 million in Q4 in the 2009 fiscal year to $1.8 million in the same quarter in the 2010 fiscal year. Sales and marketing expenditure from continuing operations decreased overall by 25% in the 2010 fiscal year from $10.7 million to $8.0 million in the prior fiscal year.
  • General and administrative expenses from continuing operations decreased by 20% to $1.7 million in Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year compared to $2.1 million in Q4 of the 2009 fiscal year and by 13% in the 2010 fiscal year from $8.7 million to $7.5 million in the prior fiscal year.
  • Net income from continuing operations increased to $910,000 in Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year from $267,000 in Q4 of the 2009 fiscal year. After incorporating a loss from discontinued operations of $126,000, the total net income for the quarter ended January 31, 2010 was $784,000 compared with a net loss of $334,000 for the same period in the prior year, after incorporating a loss from discontinued operations of $601,000 in Q4 of the prior year.
  • Basic and diluted net income per equivalent ADS from continuing operations for the quarter ended January 31, 2010 was $0.06, compared with a basic and diluted net income per equivalent ADS of $0.02 for the quarter ended January 31, 2009.

Cyril McGuire, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Our trading results in Q4 and fiscal year 2010 continued to perform strongly, with adjusted EBITDA net income from continuing operations of $1.4 million for Q4 and $4.9 million for the fiscal year 2010 representing over 115% and 90% growth, respectively. We also signed a definitive agreement for the sale of our healthcare division, Concuity, for a cash consideration of $34.5 million, which will allow us to tighten our strategic focus and become a pure play in our core Financial GRC business globally.”

Mr. McGuire added, “Operating performance metrics continued to improve, with margin growth, profitability, operating costs, and cash generation exceeding our targets. Following the Concuity sale, we will have a strengthened balance sheet of over $50 million cash and will target growth in our core Financial GRC business.  Our outlook for the fiscal year 2011 is for robust growth of 10% in revenues and continued earnings growth as the global economy recovers with encouraging signs of market confidence and stability building in the US and internationally in our target markets.”

Paul Byrne, President, added, “Trintech’s business continues to deliver strong adjusted EBITDA growth, which has been driven by increasing operational efficiencies, and improved productivity and asset utilization, as our solutions continue to drive value for our clients. With the definitive agreement for the sale of the healthcare division, we expect to drive additional value for our clients through a singular focus on the Financial Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC) market. Combining this focus with our already highly profitable operating model and a strong balance sheet, Trintech is positioned for sustained profitable growth.”

Recent Highlights include:

Trintech announced that RONA had selected its ReconNET software for financial process compliance. ReconNET is a component of Trintech’s Unity platform, a suite of modular software that enables companies to meet their financial governance, risk management and compliance goals. RONA is the largest Canadian distributor and retailer of hardware, renovation and gardening products. RONA operates a network of close to 700 corporate, franchise and affiliate stores of various sizes and formats.

Trintech announced that PAC Worldwide had selected its AssureNET ASP software for financial process compliance. AssureNET ASP is a hosted component of Trintech’s Unity platform, a suite of modular software that enables companies to meet their financial governance, risk management and compliance goals. PAC Worldwide Corporation has facilities in the U.S., Mexico and Malaysia. They have over 500 employees, thousands of customers and ship directly to dozens of countries around the world. The packaging that they manufacture reaches virtually all corners of the earth.

Trintech announced that Hyatt Hotels selected the hosted version of its Unity Compliance software for financial process compliance. Unity Compliance is a component of Trintech’s Unity platform, a suite of modular software that enables companies to meet their financial governance, risk management and compliance goals.

Trintech announced that Amplifon selected its ReconNET software for financial process compliance. Amplifon, listed on the STAR segment and the FTSE Italia Mid Cap Index of the Milan Stock Exchange, is a worldwide leader in the distribution and fitting of hearing aids and related services.

Trintech announced that Komen for the Cure® selected its ReconNET ASP software for financial process compliance. ReconNET ASP is a hosted component of Trintech’s Unity platform, a suite of modular software that enables companies to meet their financial governance, risk management and compliance goals. Today, Komen for the Cure is the world’s largest grassroots network of breast cancer survivors and activists fighting to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find the cures.

Trintech announced that it had embedded the Fujitsu Interstage® XWand® XBRL processing engine into the Trintech Unity Xtensible Financial Reporting (XFR) software module, dramatically extending the ability of Trintech clients to create, manage and validate XBRL-compliant financial statements, including Edgar Filer Manual (EFM) validation. Fujitsu Interstage XWand software helps companies create, validate, report, collect, and analyze financial data in XBRL, a standard format for disclosing financial information.

Trintech announced that The Board of Directors and International Steering Committee of XBRL International approved the appointment of Chethan Gorur, Director of Interactive Data Services at Trintech, as Chairman Designate of the XBRL International Standards Board (XSB) effective immediately. It is anticipated that he will fully assume the role of Chairman at the end of March 2010.

Trintech and KPMG, the global network of professional service firms providing audit, tax and advisory services, jointly presented a webinar on XBRL compliance entitled “Your 2010 XBRL Compliance Roadmap.” Topics included concepts such as XBRL extensions, how to evaluate XBRL software vendors, and how to leverage the phases of the SEC mandate.

Trintech presented a webinar entitled “Global XBRL Compliance: The ‘Built-In’ Approach To Drive Benefits.” This webinar was aimed at helping attendees to anticipate and understand the common mistakes made by filers in their first year of compliance and to learn how to embed XBRL into their overall financial close and reporting processes using a built-in approach that offers dramatic efficiencies over the other methods available.

Trintech announced that it has signed a partnership agreement with Safeplay, a Swedish consulting partnership specializing in finance and business process management solutions for the banking, insurance, energy, telecommunications, shipping, and manufacturing industries to sell our Financial GRC solutions.

Results Overview:

Revenues from continuing operations for the year ended January 31, 2010 were $32.5 million compared to $34.3 million for the year ended January 31, 2009, a decrease of 5%. Revenues from continuing operations for the fourth quarter ended January 31, 2010 remained unchanged compared to the revenues from continuing operations for the corresponding quarter in the prior year at $7.9 million.

Software license revenues from continuing operations for the year ended January 31, 2010 were $20.1 million compared to $19.6 million for the year ended January 31, 2009, an increase of 3%. The increase was primarily due to stronger GRC license sales in the US and some international markets. Continued economic uncertainty in some European markets is negatively impacting our normal sale cycles, with customers becoming more cautious, procurement processes lengthening and general uncertainty creating significant challenges to close new business.  Maintenance revenues from continuing operations continued to be strong from existing customers in the US.

Service revenues from continuing operations for the year ended January 31, 2010 were $12.3 million compared to $14.7 million for the year ended January 31, 2009, a decrease of 16%. The decrease was primarily due to a fall in professional service revenues from our GRC business in the US and European markets and a higher professional service revenue backlog available in the prior year.

Total gross margin from continuing operations for the year ended January 31, 2010 was $23.6 million, a decrease of 3% from $24.4 million for the year ended January 31, 2009. The overall gross margin percentage from continuing operations increased by 2% in the 2010 fiscal year to 73% from 71% in the 2009 fiscal year. Total gross margin from continuing operations for the fourth quarter ended January 31, 2010 was $5.7 million, an increase of 4% from $5.5 million in the corresponding quarter in the prior year. Gross margin percentage from continuing operations increased to 73% in Q4 of the 2010 fiscal year compared to 70% in the same period of the prior year. The increase in margin and margin percentage in Q4 and for the 2010 fiscal year was due to higher license revenues and a lower percentage of lower margin service revenues compared to the prior year periods.

Total operating expenses from continuing operations for the year ended January 31, 2010 were $21.2 million, a decrease of 15% from $25.1 millionin the previous year. Total operating expenses from continuing operations for the fourth quarter ended January 31, 2010 were $4.7 million, a decrease of 16% from $5.6 million in the corresponding quarter in the prior year. The decrease in costs was primarily due to headcount reductions and lower salary costs. There has also been a reduction in discretionary expenditure in all areas of Trintech over the last year due to the general economic environment.

Adjusted EBITDA operating expenses from continuing operations for the year ended January 31, 2010 were $19.3 million, a decrease of 15% from $22.7 millionin the previous year. Adjusted EBITDA operating expenses from continuing operations for the quarter ended January 31, 2010 were $4.4 million, a decrease of 14% compared to $5.1 million for the corresponding period in the prior year.

The provision for income taxes from continuing operations was $138,000 and $45,000 for the year and quarter ended January 31, 2010, respectively, compared to a credit of $356,000 and a credit of $243,000 for the year and quarter ended January 31, 2009. The tax credits in the year and quarter ended January 31, 2009 were primarily due to a deferred tax credit in the US resulting from the finalization of the purchase accounting related to the acquisition of the Movaris business.

Trintech’s balance sheet remains strong, with cash balances of $20.1 million (including restricted cash of $170,000) as of January 31, 2010. The cash flow statement has been prepared on a combined continuing and discontinued basis. Net cash generated for the three months ended January 31, 2010 was $1.2 million, which included cash generated from operations of $1.5 million, cash payments on the purchase of property and equipment of $53,000 and the effect of exchange rate differences on cash and cash equivalents of $88,000 negative.

Trintech will host a conference call to discuss its financial results, its business outlook and the proposed sale of its healthcare division beginning at 13:30 hrs (UK Time), Wednesday, March 3. Please see advisory for information on the call.

A web simulcast of Trintech’s conference call reviewing our performance for Q4 and the full fiscal year 2010, our business outlook for Q1 fiscal year 2011 and our proposed sale of its healthcare division will be broadcast live, Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at 13:30 hrs (UK Time), 08:30 hrs (NY Time) and 05:30 hrs (CA Time) and thereafter for 1 year at www.trintech.com/investor. An instant telephone replay will also be available for 10 days by dialing +44 1452 55 00 00 and entering the following access number (57225731 #).

About Trintech Group

Trintech Group Plc (Nasdaq:TTPA) is a leading global provider of integrated financial governance, risk management, and compliance software solutions for commercial, financial, and healthcare markets. Trintech’s recognized expertise in reconciliation process management, financial data aggregation, revenue and cost cycle management, financial close, risk management, and compliance enables customers to gain greater visibility and control of their critical financial processes leading to better overall business performance.

For more information on how Trintech can help you increase confidence in business performance and reduce financial risk, please contact us online at www.trintech.com or at our principal business office in Addison, Texas, or through an international office in Ireland, the United Kingdom, or the Netherlands.

Trintech • 15851 Dallas Parkway, Suite 900 • Addison, TX 75001 • Tel 1 972 701 9802

Trintech UK Ltd. • Warnford Court, 29 Throgmorton St. • London EC2N2AT, UK • Tel +44 (0) 20 7628 5235

Trintech Technologies • Block C, Central Park • Leopardstown, Dublin 18, Ireland • Tel +353 1 293 9840

Trintech • Cypresbaan 9 • 2908 LT Capelle a/d Ijssel, The Netherlands • Tel +31 (0) 10 8507 474

Forward Looking Statements

This news release contains “forward looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Any “forward looking statements” in this press release are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those stated. “Forward looking statements” in this press release include statements, among others, relating to Trintech’s growth strategy, including a singular focus on the Governance, Risk and Compliance market, the timing of the closing of the sale of Trintech’s healthcare division, Concuity, the benefits to be derived therefrom, revenue growth of 10% and continued earnings growth in Trintech’s fiscal year 2011, and economic recovery in the markets that Trintech serves. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include Trintech’s ability to close the sale of the Concuity business, accurately predict future sales and market trends, accurately predict and meet customer needs and to successfully position itself in the market, ensure the performance of its products and services, and improve the performance of its organization and ensure the long term health of its business. Actual performance may also be affected by other factors more fully discussed in Trintech’s Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended January 31, 2009 filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (www.sec.gov) and subsequent filings with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Lastly, Trintech assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements.

TRINTECH GROUP PLC
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
ASSETS January 31, 2010 January 31, 2009
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents $19,929 $17,363
Restricted cash 170 1,143
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of
$97 and $261 at January 31, 2010 and January 31, 2009, respectively 4,583 5,447
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,059 993
Net current deferred tax asset 199 252
Assets held for sale and in discontinued operations 7,703 7,735
Total current assets 33,643 32,933
Non-current assets
Restricted cash 170
Property and equipment, net 1,005 1,150
Intangible assets, net 1,843 2,945
Goodwill 20,290 20,276
Total non-current assets 23,138 24,541
Total assets $56,781 $57,474
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable 463 695
Accrued payroll and related expenses 966 1,555
Deferred consideration 970
Income taxes payable 101 161
Other accrued liabilities 1,186 1,467
Deferred revenues 8,481 8,414
Liabilities held for sale and in discontinued operations 3,981 4,345
Total current liabilities 15,178 17,607
Non-current liabilities
Income taxes payable 127 110
Net non-current deferred tax liability 199 252
Deferred rent less current portion 404 537
Total non-current liabilities 730 899
Series B preference shares, $0.0027 par value
10,000,000 authorized at January 31, 2010 and January 31, 2009, respectively
None issued and outstanding
Shareholders’ equity:
Ordinary Shares, $0.0027 par value: 100,000,000 shares authorized;
33,454,384 shares issued and 33,095,914
and 31,843,333 shares outstanding at January 31, 2010 and
January 31, 2009, respectively 90 90
Additional paid-in capital 253,372 253,076
Treasury shares (at cost, 358,470 and 595,552 at January 31, 2010 and
January 31, 2009, respectively) (529) (879)
Accumulated deficit (207,880) (209,367)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss (4,180) (3,952)
Total shareholders’ equity 40,873 38,968
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $56,781 $57,474
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(U.S. dollars in thousands, except share and per share data)
Three months Twelve months
ended January 31, ended January 31,
2010 2009 2010 2009
Revenues
License $4,668 $4,566 $20,140 $19,614
Service 3,207 3,334 12,325 14,697
Total revenues 7,875 7,900 32,465 34,311
Cost of revenues
License 594 540 2,736 2,246
Amortization of purchased technology 62 107 248 417
Service 1,477 1,724 5,855 7,248
Total cost of revenues 2,133 2,371 8,839 9,911
Gross margin 5,742 5,529 23,626 24,400
Operating expenses
Research and development 1,092 1,012 4,581 4,620
Sales and marketing 1,815 2,241 8,032 10,656
General and administrative 1,679 2,092 7,489 8,654
Restructuring charges 58 244 212
Amortization of purchased intangible assets 141 238 855 933
Total operating expenses 4,727 5,641 21,201 25,075
Income (loss) from operations 1,015 (112) 2,425 (675)
Interest income, net 3 57 50 334
Exchange (loss) gain, net (63) 79 229 331
Income (loss) before provision
for income taxes 955 24 2,704 (10)
Provision for income taxes (45) 243 (138) 356
Net income from continuing operations $910 $267 $2,566 $346
Loss from discontinued operations (126) (601) (1,079) (2,498)
Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net 920
Net loss from discontinued operations,net of tax (126) (601) (1,079) (1,578)
Net income (loss) $784 $(334) $1,487 $(1,232)
Basic and diluted net income per OrdinaryShare from continuing operations $0.03 $0.01 $0.08 $0.01
Basic and diluted net loss per OrdinaryShare from discontinued operations $(0.00) $(0.02) $(0.03) $(0.05)
Basic and diluted net income (loss) perOrdinary Share $0.02 $(0.01) $0.05 $(0.04)
Shares used in computation of basic netincome per Ordinary Share and basic

net income from continuing operations

33,084,253 31,936,148 32,951,646 31,921,345
Shares used in computation of diluted netincome (loss) per Ordinary Share and

diluted net income from continuing

operations

33,659,516 32,972,477 33,034,267 33,001,888
Shares used in computation of basic and diluted net loss per Ordinary Share from discontinued operations 33,084,253 31,936,148 32,951,646 31,921,345
Basic and diluted net income per equivalent ADS from continuing operations $0.06 $0.02 $0.16 $0.02
Basic and diluted net income (loss) per equivalent ADS $0.05 $(0.02) $0.09 $(0.08)

TRINTECH GROUP PLC
RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS TO
ADJUSTED EBITDA NET INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
(U.S. dollars in thousands, except per share data)
Three months ended January 31, Twelve months ended January 31,
2010 2009 2010 2009
Net income from continuing operations $910 $267 $2,566 $346
Adjustments:
Depreciation 100 111 409 504
Amortization of purchased intangible assets 203 345 1,103 1,350
Share-based compensation 141 168 488 854
Restructuring charge 58 244 212
Interest income, net (3) (57) (50) (334)
Income taxes 45 (243) 138 (356)
Adjusted Earnings Before Interest, Taxation, Depreciation,

Amortization, Restructuring and Share-based compensation (EBITDA) net income from continuing operations

$1,396 $649 $4,898 $2,576
Adjusted Basic and diluted EBITDA net income per OrdinaryShare from continuing operations $0.04 $0.02 $0.15 $0.08
Adjusted Basic and diluted EBITDA net income per equivalentADS from continuing operations $0.08 $0.04 $0.30 $0.16
Note: Management believes Adjusted EBITDA net income from continuing operations is an important measure of Company performance without consideration of the non-operating income and expense adjusted above as it presents a clearer view of operational performance changes between the comparative periods.

TRINTECH GROUP PLC
RECONCILIATION OF OPERATING EXPENSES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS TO
ADJUSTED EBITDA OPERATING EXPENSES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
(U.S. dollars in thousands)
Three months ended January 31, Twelve months ended January 31,
2010 2009 2010 2009
Total operating expenses from continuing operations $4,727 $5,641 $21,201 $25,075
Adjustments:
Restructuring charge (58) (244) (212)
Depreciation (91) (97) (372) (430)
Amortization of purchased intangible assets (141) (238) (855) (933)
Share-based compensation (122) (154) (436) (792)
Adjusted EBITDA operating expenses from continuing operations $4,373 $5,094 $19,294 $22,708
Note: Management believes Adjusted EBITDA operating expenses from continuing operations is an important measure of Company performance without consideration of the non-operating expense adjusted above as it presents a clearer view of operational performance changes between the comparative periods.

TRINTECH GROUP PLC
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(U.S. dollars in thousands)
Twelve Months ended January 31,
2010 2009
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net income (loss) $1,487 $(1,232)
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to
net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation 606 742
Amortization 2,194 2,545
Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net (920)
Share-based compensation 515 919
Effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates (65) (273)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable 1,944 804
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (1,181) (669)
Accounts payable (225) 193
Accrued payroll and related expenses (631) (555)
Deferred revenues 595 2,556
Other accrued liabilities (562) (246)
Net cash provided by operating activities 4,677 3,864
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of property and equipment (268) (271)
(Payments) proceeds relating to sale of discontinued operations, net (60) 920
Increase (decrease) in restricted cash deposits 1,143 (975)
Payments relating to acquisitions (2,883) (8,816)
Net cash used in investing activities (2,068) (9,142)
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Principal payments on capital leases (156) (146)
Issuance of ordinary shares 130 124
Repurchase of ordinary shares (100)
Net cash used in financing activities (26) (122)
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 2,583 (5,400)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (17) (1,003)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 17,363 23,766
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $19,929 $17,363
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information
Interest paid $14 $31
Taxes paid $144 $222
Supplemental disclosure of non-cash flow information
Acquisition of property and equipment under capital leases $– $(30)
Leasehold improvements funded by the landlord $– $249
Shares issued in connection with acquisition $– $1,238
CONTACT:  Trintech Group plc
          Paul Byrne, President
          Joseph Seery, VP Finance, Group
          +353 1 293 9840
          paul.byrne@trintech.com
          joseph.seery@trintech.com

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Trintech (TTPA) Reports Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2010 Financial Results

SouthWest Water Company (SWWC) Signs Agreement to be Acquired by Long-Term Infrastructure Investor Group

Mar. 3, 2010 (Business Wire) — SouthWest Water Company (NASDAQ:SWWC) today announced it has entered into a definitive merger agreement to be acquired for approximately $275 million in cash, or $11.00 per share, by institutional investors advised by J.P. Morgan Asset Management and Water Asset Management L.L.C. (the partnership).

The all-cash offer represents a 56% premium over SouthWest Water’s closing share price on March 2, 2010 and a premium of 71% over the average 30-day closing price ended March 2, 2010. After taking into account SouthWest Water’s outstanding debt the transaction represents a total enterprise value of approximately $427 million.

The Board of Directors of SouthWest Water and the members of the partnership unanimously approved the agreement, which is subject to customary closing conditions, including approval of SouthWest Water’s shareholders and various regulatory agencies.

“I am excited about the opportunity that this transaction presents for our customers, employees and the communities we serve, as well as the value it provides to our shareholders,” said Mark Swatek, president and chief executive officer of SouthWest Water. “The partnership is extremely committed to our industry and its infrastructure needs, as well as the stability of the company’s operations, quality customer service and community involvement. We are confident that this transaction will facilitate SouthWest Water’s access to long-term capital and enhances our ability to invest in systems to the benefit of the customers and communities we serve.”

Andrew Walters, vice president of J.P. Morgan Asset Management’s Infrastructure Investments Group, said, “We believe that SouthWest Water is an excellent, long-term investment for the partnership. We look forward to working with SouthWest Water’s experienced management and talented workforce to deliver cost effective customer service to a growing customer base over time. A seamless transition and continuity are high priorities for us and we look forward to continuing to work with management and employees in the company’s service territories to ensure continued responsiveness to needs of local customers and communities.”

“SouthWest Water has made a significant commitment to improve the water service infrastructure in the regions it serves, and, in turn, enhance service and reliability to its customers,” said Disque Deane Jr. of Water Asset Management. “Our partnership is committed to funding necessary maintenance and upgrades over the long-term.”

Prior to the closing of the acquisition, members of the partnership will invest approximately $16 million in 2.7 million newly issued SouthWest Water shares under a private placement, priced at $6.00 per share. SouthWest Water intends to use the proceeds to assist the financing of ongoing utility infrastructure investments. As the offer and sale of the shares of common stock will not be registered under the Securities Act of 1933 or applicable state securities laws, the shares of common stock may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from such registration requirements. This document is being issued pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 135c under the Securities Act and does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy the shares of common stock.

Upon completion of the transaction, SouthWest Water’s common stock will cease to be publicly traded. Wells Fargo Securities, LLC acted as financial advisor to the Special Committee of the Board of Directors of SouthWest Water which was formed to evaluate SouthWest Water’s strategic alternatives. Macquarie Capital (USA) Inc. acted as financial advisor to the partnership.

Conference Call

The company will hold a conference call to discuss the transaction at 12:30 p.m. Eastern (9:30 a.m. Pacific). The call will be web cast live so that interested parties may listen over the Internet at the company’s website at www.swwc.com under the investor relations button at the top of the page. For those unable to participate in the live web cast, a replay will be available shortly after the call on the company’s website. A telephonic replay will also be available beginning at 3:30 p.m. Eastern (12:30 p.m. Pacific) until midnight March 10, 2010 at 888.286.8010 (international callers 617.801.6888), passcode 37139231.

About SouthWest Water Company

SouthWest Water Company provides a broad range of operations, maintenance and management services, including water production, treatment and distribution; wastewater collection and treatment; customer service; and utility infrastructure construction management. The company owns regulated public utilities and also serves cities, utility districts and private companies under contract. More than a million people in 9 states depend on SouthWest Water for high-quality, reliable service. Additional information may be found on the company’s website: www.swwc.com.

About J.P. Morgan Asset Management – Global Real Assets

J.P. Morgan Asset Management – Global Real Assets has approximately $43 billion in real estate and infrastructure assets, as of December 31, 2009. With a 40-year history of successful investing and a staff of 359 professionals, J.P. Morgan Asset Management – Global Real Assets identifies, analyzes, negotiates, acquires, develops, redevelops, renovates, operates, maintains, finances and sells assets, on behalf of its clients. J.P. Morgan Asset Management’s broad investment capabilities and framework for analyzing opportunities in today’s complex real estate and infrastructure markets provide critical insights for its institutional clients in both the public and private markets.

About J.P. Morgan Asset Management

J.P. Morgan Asset Management, with assets under supervision of $1.5 trillion, is a global leader in investment and wealth management. J.P. Morgan Asset Management’s clients include institutions, retail investors and high-net worth individuals in every major market throughout the world. J.P. Morgan Asset Management offers global investment management in equities, fixed income, real estate, hedge funds, private equity and liquidity. J.P. Morgan Asset Management provides trust and estate, banking and brokerage services to high-net-worth clients and retirement services for corporations and individuals. JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM), the parent company of J.P. Morgan Asset Management, is a leading global financial services firm with assets of $2.1 trillion and operations in more than 60 countries. Information about JPMorgan Chase & Co. is available at www.jpmorganchase.com.

About Water Asset Management, L.L.C.

Water Asset Management, L.L.C. is a water industry focused investment firm, that invests exclusively in water related companies and assets worldwide. As the third largest shareholder of SouthWest Water Company, WAM has been a committed and engaged shareholder for many years. Additional information is available at www.waterinv.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements, including, but not limited to, statements relating to the proposed transaction and its potential effects on the company and its operations, involve risks and uncertainties, as well as assumptions that, if they prove incorrect or never materialize, could cause the results of the company to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from these expectations due to changes in regulatory, political, weather, economic, business, competitive, market, environmental and other factors. More detailed information about these factors is contained in the company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including under the caption “Risk Factors” in the company’s 2008 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The company assumes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements to reflect any change in future events.

Additional Information

In connection with the proposed transaction, SouthWest Water will file a proxy statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Before making any voting or investment decision, investors and security holders are urged to carefully read the entire proxy statement and any other relevant documents filed with the SEC, as well as any amendments or supplements to those documents, because they will contain important information about the proposed transaction. A definitive proxy statement will be sent to shareholders in connection with the proposed transaction. Investors and security holders may obtain a free copy of the proxy statement (when available) and other documents filed at the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The proxy statement and such other documents may also be obtained at no cost from SouthWest Water by directing the request to SouthWest Water Company, 624 S. Grand Avenue, Suite 2900, Los Angeles, CA, 90017, Attention: Shareholder Services.

The company and its directors, executive officers and other members of its management and employees may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies from the security holders of the company in connection with the proposed transaction. Information concerning the special interests of these directors, executive officers and other members of the company’s management and employees in the proposed transaction will be included in the company’s proxy statement referenced above. Information regarding the company’s directors and executive officers is also available in its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008 and in its proxy statement for its 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders, which documents are filed with the SEC. These documents are available free of charge at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and from the company at the address provided above.

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on SouthWest Water Company (SWWC) Signs Agreement to be Acquired by Long-Term Infrastructure Investor Group

Metropolitan Health Networks (MDF) Reports Record 2009 Results of Operations

Press Release Source: Metropolitan Health Networks, Inc. On Tuesday March 2, 2010, 7:00 am EST

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Metropolitan Health Networks, Inc. (NYSE Amex:MDF), a leading provider of healthcare services in Florida, today announced the financial results for their fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2009. Highlights include the following:

  • Revenue of $354.4 million in 2009, a 11.7% increase compared to 2008;
  • Net income of $14.4 million in 2009 or $0.32 per basic share, compared to $10.2 million or $0.21 per basic share in 2008;
  • Total customer months increased by 7.2% in 2009 over 2008; and
  • Total outstanding shares of common stock reduced by 11.4 million shares since September 30, 2008 to 40.9 million at December 31, 2009; and
  • Authorization to increase share repurchase program to 20 million shares of common stock.

Full Year 2009 Financial Highlights:

The Company recognized revenue of $354.4 million for 2009 as compared to $317.2 million for 2008, an increase of $37.2 million or 11.7%. Operating income in 2009 was $23.0 million compared to $16.5 million in 2008. Net income for 2009 was $14.4 million compared to $10.2 million for 2008. Net earnings per share were $0.32 basic and $0.31 diluted for 2009 compared to $0.21 basic and $0.20 diluted for 2008. Weighted average common shares outstanding for 2009 were 44.5 million, basic and 45.9 million, diluted.

Included in the 2009 results was a gain on sale of the HMO of $1.3 million, relating to the settle-up of net equity at the time of sale and included in the 2008 results were the gain on sale of the HMO of $5.9 million and expenses directly related to the sale including employee termination payments and stay bonuses totaling $1.6 million. Operating income adjusted for these items was $21.6 million in 2009 compared to $12.3 million in 2008. These adjusted amounts are non-GAAP measures.

The Company’s consolidated medical expense ratio (“MER”) was 88.5% for 2009 compared to 88.4% in 2008. Year over year medical expense, on a per customer per month basis, increased 4.2% in 2009.

Fourth Quarter Financial Highlights:

The Company recognized revenue of $88.8 million for the fourth quarter as compared to $80.0 million in the 2008 fourth quarter, a 10.9% increase. Operating income was $7.8 million in 2009 compared to $4.9 million in 2008. Net income for the 2009 fourth quarter was $4.8 million or $0.12 per share basic and $0.11 diluted as compared to $2.6 million or $0.05 per share basic and diluted for the same quarter last year.

The Company’s consolidated MER was 84.9% in the fourth quarter of 2009 compared to 88.3% in the same quarter of 2008.

Customer Information:

Medicare Advantage customers increased to 35,500 at December 31, 2009 as compared to 33,000 customers at December 31, 2008, an increase of 2,500 members. Total customer months, the combined total customers for each month of the measurement period, increased by 7.2% to 425,100 in 2009, up from 396,400 in 2008.

Balance Sheet Highlights:

Cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments at December 31, 2009, totaled $33.8 million compared to $36.3 million at December 31, 2008. This reduction is primarily a result of posting $5.0 million of short-term investments to secure a $3.0 million line of credit, and reflecting this collateral as a non-current asset at December 31, 2009. As noted below, $15.9 million was used during 2009 to repurchase 7.8 million shares of the Company’s common stock as well as options exercisable to purchase 684,200 share of our common stock. The Company had a working capital surplus of $27.7 million as of December 31, 2009 as compared to a surplus of $34.5 million as of December 31, 2008, a decrease of $6.8 million or 19.7%. The decrease in working capital is primarily attributable to the posting of collateral for the letter of credit and to the stock repurchases. Stockholders’ equity increased approximately $100,000 or 0.2%, from approximately $42.8 million at December 31, 2008 to approximately $42.9 million at December 31, 2009.

Share Repurchase Program:

On February 24, 2010, the Company’s Board of Directors approved a 5 million share increase to its previously announced share repurchase program bringing the total number of shares of common stock authorized for repurchase under the program to 20 million shares. From the inception of the program through December 31, 2009 the Company has repurchased 12.0 million shares of its common stock, and 684,200 options, at an average cost of $1.85 per share. Shares repurchased from January 1 through February 25, 2010 totaled approximately 1.6 million bringing total shares then outstanding to approximately 39.8 million. Approximately 5.7 million shares remain available for purchase under the plan. The number of shares to be repurchased and the timing of the purchases will be influenced by a number of factors, including the then prevailing market price of the common stock of the Company, other perceived opportunities that may become available to the Company, and regulatory requirements.

Michael Earley, Chief Executive Officer of Metropolitan Health Networks, Inc., commented, “2009’s strong financial results are driven by a number of operating strategies and actions initiated over the past few years. Our customer base has continued growing, we’ve strengthened our risk scoring compliance and medical management capabilities, and our operating expenses have been significantly reduced. We took advantage of short-term weakness in the financial markets for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, reducing our outstanding shares from the inception of the share repurchase program by over 23%.

Earley noted further, “Almost three years ago we recognized the need to advance our business model to better serve and meet the demands of the rapidly growing Medicare population. Centered around customer care and delivering better outcomes more efficiently, we saw value in the Patient Centered Medical Home (PCMH) model of care. This model restores primary care physicians and their staffs to the role of providing and coordinating the full range of care for patients, or in our words, customers. We initiated a series of strategic changes to embark on that path.”

“In 2009 we implemented a number of PCMH related initiatives including the addition of nursing professionals to our medical office staffs, the implementation of electronic prescribing and chronic care disease registries, an investment in a comprehensive electronic medical records system that we expect to be fully operational by late 2010, and the adoption of a comprehensive training program aimed at enhancing both customer satisfaction and employee engagement. While many of these achievements may not be readily evident in our numbers, our recently announced PCMH pilot study results and our high customer satisfaction marks indicate these advances are making a difference both in how we are perceived by our customers and in measurable quality of care metrics. In conjunction with our recent receipt of NCQA recognition, we fully expect the investments we are making in these programs to have an ongoing long-term positive impact on our operations,” Earley concluded.

Conference Call Information:

Metropolitan Health Networks will hold a conference call to review its fourth quarter and full year 2009 results on Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern. The call will be hosted by Michael Earley, Chief Executive Officer. Interested parties may access the conference call by dialing the following numbers: (888) 679-8037 (domestic) or (617) 213-4849 (international), pass code #74394818. The call will also be available via web cast at www.metcare.com, http://www.streetevents.com, or http://www.fulldisclosure.com

Participants may pre-register for the call at:

https://www.theconferencingservice.com/prereg/key.process?key=P9XK4LHXX

Pre-registrants will be issued a pin number to use when dialing into the live call which will provide quick access to the conference by bypassing the operator upon connection.

If you are unable to participate, an audio replay of the call will be available beginning two hours after the call and will be available until 11:59 p.m. on March 9, 2010, by dialing (888) 286-8010 (domestic) or (617) 801-6888 (international) using confirmation pass code 71738557.

About Metropolitan Health Networks, Inc.:

Metropolitan Health Networks, Inc. with its group of “Metcare of Florida” primary care practices is a growing healthcare organization that provides comprehensive healthcare services for Medicare Advantage customers and other patients in Florida. To learn more about Metropolitan please visit its website at www.metcare.com.

GAAP to Non-GAAP RECONCILIATION

Non-GAAP income from operations is a non-GAAP financial measure under Section 101 of Regulation G under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Non-GAAP income from operations is calculated by excluding certain GAAP financial items we believe have less significance to the day-to-day operations of our business.

Forward-Looking Statements:

Except for historical matters contained herein, statements made in this press release are forward-looking and are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, words such as “may”, “will”, “to”, “plan”, “expect”, “believe”, “anticipate”, “intend”, “could”, “would”, “estimate”, or “continue” or the negative other variations thereof or comparable terminology are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

Investors and others are cautioned that a variety of factors, including certain risks, may affect our business and cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. These risk factors include, without limitation, (i) our ability to meet our cost projections under various provider agreements with Humana; (ii) our failure to accurately estimate incurred but not reported medical benefits expense; (iii) pricing pressures exerted on us by managed care organizations and the level of payments we indirectly receive under governmental programs or from other payors; (iv) future legislation and changes in governmental regulations; (v) the impact of Medicare Risk Adjustments on payments we receive for our managed care operations; (vi) a loss of any of our significant contracts or our ability to increase the number of Medicare eligible patient lives we manage under these contracts. The Company is also subject to the risks and uncertainties described in its filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008, its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended June 30, 2009, and its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, and its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, which is anticipated to be filed within several business days.

METROPOLITAN HEALTH NETWORKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
December 31,
2009 2008
ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and equivalents $ 6,794,809 $ 2,701,243
Investments, at fair value 27,036,310 33,641,140
Accounts receivable from patients, net of allowance of $583,000 and $490,000
in 2009 and 2008, respectively
517,314 286,003
Due from Humana, net 2,823,355
Inventory 216,170 315,811
Prepaid expenses 427,985 570,792
Deferred income taxes 510,816 262,874
Other current assets 211,649 266,007
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS 35,715,053 40,867,225
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, net of accumulated depreciation and
amortization of $2,809,000 and $2,324,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively 1,909,635 1,336,094
RESTRICTED CASH AND INVESTMENTS 6,444,678 1,408,089
DEFERRED INCOME TAXES, net of current portion 1,167,475 980,842
OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS, net of accumulated amortization of $877,000 and
$524,000 in 2009 and 2008, respectively
930,569 1,184,142
GOODWILL 4,362,332 2,587,332
OTHER ASSETS 802,500 780,631
TOTAL ASSETS $ 51,332,242 $ 49,144,355
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable $ 455,306 $ 483,621
Accrued payroll and payroll taxes 2,959,708 2,288,224
Income taxes payable 2,271,638 1,865,926
Due to Humana, net 1,385,200
Accrued termination costs of HMO administrative services agreement 1,080,000
Accrued expenses 618,575 621,854
Current portion of long-term debt 318,182
TOTAL CURRENT LIABILITIES 8,008,609 6,339,625
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of current portion 397,727
TOTAL LIABILITIES 8,406,336 6,339,625
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Preferred stock, par value $.001 per share; stated value $100 per share;
10,000,000 shares authorized; 5,000 issued and outstanding 500,000 500,000
Common stock, par value $.001 per share; 80,000,000 shares authorized;
40,902,391 and 48,251,395 issued and outstanding at December 31, 2009 and
2008, respectively
40,902 48,251
Additional paid-in capital 23,329,290 37,649,331
Retained earnings 19,055,714 4,607,148
TOTAL STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY 42,925,906 42,804,730
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY $ 51,332,242 $ 49,144,355
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.
METROPOLITAN HEALTH NETWORKS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
Years Ended December 31,
2009 2008 2007
REVENUE $ 354,407,100 $ 317,211,727 $ 277,577,289
MEDICAL EXPENSE
Medical claims expense 299,039,806 267,983,448 229,420,767
Medical center costs 14,512,051 12,488,679 11,275,599
Total Medical Expense 313,551,857 280,472,127 240,696,366
GROSS PROFIT 40,855,243 36,739,600 36,880,923
OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES
Administrative payroll, payroll taxes and benefits 11,287,110 12,537,118 13,108,160
General and administrative 7,564,251 10,071,781 11,158,177
Marketing and advertising 359,249 1,864,822 3,959,220
Stay bonuses and termination costs of HMO subsidiary 1,597,674
Restructuring expense 583,795
Total Other Operating Expenses 19,210,610 26,071,395 28,809,352
OPERATING INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE GAIN ON SALE OF HMO 21,644,633 10,668,205 8,071,571
Gain on sale of HMO subsidiary 1,336,470 5,872,769
OPERATING INCOME 22,981,103 16,540,974 8,071,571
OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE)
Investment income, net 390,183 108,137 1,396,624
Other income (expense), net (22,607 ) (30,576 ) (27,457 )
Total other income (expense) 367,576 77,561 1,369,167
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 23,348,679 16,618,535 9,440,738
INCOME TAX EXPENSE 8,900,113 6,414,068 3,526,740
NET INCOME $ 14,448,566 $ 10,204,467 $ 5,913,998
EARNINGS PER SHARE:
Basic $ 0.32 $ 0.21 $ 0.12
Diluted $ 0.31 $ 0.20 $ 0.11
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements
Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Metropolitan Health Networks (MDF) Reports Record 2009 Results of Operations

Delta Apparel (DLA) Raises Fiscal 2010 Sales and Earnings Guidance

Mar. 2, 2010 (Business Wire) — Delta Apparel, Inc. (NYSE Amex: DLA) today announced that the Company is raising its expectations of net sales and earnings for its 2010 fiscal year ending July 3, 2010.

For the full fiscal year 2010, the Company now expects net sales of $395 to $400 million compared to its prior guidance of net sales of $375 to $385 million. Earnings are now expected to be in the range of $1.20 to $1.30 per diluted share compared to the Company’s prior guidance of diluted earnings of $0.95 to $1.10 per share.

“Sales trends in each of our business units continue to be strong as we proceed through the second half of the fiscal year,” commented Robert W. Humphreys, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Gross margins are exceeding our original target, driven by manufacturing efficiencies at the company-owned facilities and a favorable shift in product mix. We continue to utilize the strengths of each of our businesses to enhance top-line growth and leverage our operating platform. We are encouraged by our recent performance and believe we are well positioned to capitalize on the many long-term growth opportunities that still lie ahead for Delta Apparel, Inc.”

While the Company remains concerned about the U.S. economy, it believes it has taken into consideration the heightened risk factors associated with the current economic climate. Significant deterioration in the economy could, however, negatively impact the Company’s ability to achieve its expectations.

About Delta Apparel, Inc.

Delta Apparel, Inc., along with its operating subsidiaries, M. J. Soffe, LLC, Junkfood Clothing Company, To The Game, LLC, and Art Gun, LLC, is an international design, marketing, manufacturing, and sourcing company that features a diverse portfolio of high quality branded and private label activewear apparel and headwear. The Company specializes in selling a variety of casual and athletic products through most distribution channels for these types of goods. Its products are sold to specialty and boutique shops, upscale and traditional department stores, mid-tier retailers, sporting goods stores, screen printers, and private label accounts. In addition, certain products are sold to college bookstores and to the U.S. military. Through its newest acquisition, Art Gun, LLC, the Company provides shoppers a “virtual art studio” to create customized graphics on apparel products. Many of the Company’s products are available direct to consumers on its websites at www.soffe.com, www.junkfoodclothing.com, and www.deltaapparel.com. The headwear products can be viewed at www.2thegame.com. The Company’s operations are located throughout the United States, Honduras, El Salvador, and Mexico, and it employs approximately 6,600 people worldwide. Additional information about the Company is available at www.deltaapparelinc.com.

Statements and other information in this press release that are not reported financial results or other historical information are forward-looking statements. These are based on our expectations and are necessarily dependent upon assumptions, estimates and data that we believe are reasonable and accurate but may be incorrect, incomplete or imprecise. Forward-looking statements are also subject to a number of business risks and uncertainties, any of which could cause actual results to differ materially from those set forth in or implied by the forward-looking statements. The risks and uncertainties include, among others, the general U.S. and international economic conditions; the ability to grow, achieve synergies and realize the expected profitability of recent acquisitions; changes in consumer confidence, consumer spending, and demand for apparel products; the ability of our brands and products to meet consumer preferences within the prevailing retail environment; the financial difficulties encountered by our customers and higher credit risk exposure; the competitive conditions in the apparel and textile industries; changes in environmental, tax, trade, employment and other laws and regulations; the uncertainty of raw material and energy prices; changes in the economic, political and social stability of our offshore locations; the relative strength of the United States dollar as against other currencies; and other risks described from time to time in our reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. We do not undertake publicly to update or revise the forward-looking statements even if it becomes clear that any projected results will not be realized.

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Delta Apparel (DLA) Raises Fiscal 2010 Sales and Earnings Guidance

Lihua International (LIWA) Announces Preliminary Unaudited 2009 Financial Results

China, Mar. 2, 2010 (PRNewswire-Asia) — Lihua International, Inc. (Nasdaq: LIWA) (“Lihua” or the “Company”), a leading Chinese developer, designer, manufacturer, marketer and distributor of low cost, high quality alternatives to pure copper superfine and magnet wire, as well as copper rod products, today announced that it expects full-year 2009 revenue of approximately $161.5 million, gross profit of approximately $36 million and non-GAAP net income of approximately $25.5 million, excluding non-cash charges of $9 million. This represents expected year-over-year growth of 223%, 114% and 118%, respectively. Preliminary unaudited GAAP net income for fiscal year 2009 is expected to be approximately $16.5 million. The non-cash charges relate to the change in fair value of warrants issued to investors in conjunction with the Company’s private placement of convertible preferred stock in October 2008. According to FASB Accounting Standards Update No. 2010-05 (Topic 718) regarding Stock Compensation, Lihua will no longer need to report a non-cash charge of $15.4 million relating to the realization of management earn outs at the end of 2009, which was initially anticipated and disclosed in previous filings. Lihua previously reported guidance of 110%-115% gross profit growth and 115%-120% non-GAAP net income growth, excluding non-cash charges, over 2008.

The strong year-over-year growth was driven by four primary factors: 1) a significant increase in domestic demand for Lihua’s copper-clad aluminum (CCA) wire and copper products; 2) the commencement of the company’s new scrap copper recycling and cleaning facility in March 2009, which contributed to the growth of Lihua’s main product lines: copper rod and copper wire; 3) an increase in manufacturing capacity following the launch of four new high-speed manufacturing lines in the 2009 third quarter, which increased CCA and copper wire capacity by approximately 40% to 25,200 tons; and, 4) a 50% increase in the Company’s customer base over 2008, from 200 to approximately 300 customers as of December 31, 2009.

Jianhua Zhu, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lihua, said, “We believe that our preliminary unaudited results for 2009 reflect the benefits and advantages of our copper alternative products, the strength of our business model and our ability to capture additional market share. As we continue to expand our manufacturing capacity, we believe that we will be better positioned to further capitalize on the demand for copper and copper alternatives in the Chinese market, driven by the growth in end markets such as white goods, household appliances, electronics, general infrastructure and telecommunications.”

2010 Guidance

Lihua anticipates 2010 year-over-year growth of approximately 30-35% in gross profit and 35-40% in non-GAAP net income, excluding non-cash charges, as a result of its growth plans.

The Company expects that 2010 growth will be largely the result of continued strong demand in China for recycled copper and copper alternatives such as CCA in the household appliance, consumer white goods and infrastructure markets. In order to better meet this expected growth in demand, Lihua plans to add 10 new proprietary high-speed production lines in 2010, which will increase its annual capacity by nearly 40%. Lihua expects to complete the build-out of six of these new production lines in the first half of 2010, bringing its annual copper magnet and copper fine wire production capacity to 25,000 tons from approximately 18,000 tons at the end of 2009. Lihua expects to launch the remaining four production lines during the second half of 2010, which will bring its CCA fine and magnet wire capacity to 10,000 tons annually, compared with current annual capacity of approximately 7,200 tons. To date, the Company has launched the first two of its six planned copper magnet and copper fine wire production lines. Lihua remains on track to complete the build out of four additional copper wire production lines during the first half of 2010, with four CCA wire production lines planned for the second half of the year. The Company anticipates funding these capacity increases from existing cash on the balance sheet and operating cash flow generated in 2010.

“Under the Chinese government’s RMB 4 trillion stimulus package, we expect to benefit from continued high demand for copper and copper alternatives,” said Mr. Zhu. “Our products represent a cost-effective, high-performance alternative to pure copper and we believe that Lihua is well positioned to benefit from favorable industry trends, both in the near- and long-term. We also expect our new production capacity to bolster our gross margin profile, as we will be able to ramp up the conversion of recycled copper rod products into sales of higher-margin, value-added superfine and copper magnet wire.”

About Lihua International, Inc.

Lihua International, through its two wholly-owned subsidiaries, Lihua Electron and Lihua Copper, is a leading value-added manufacturer of copper replacement products for China’s rapidly growing magnet and fine wire market. Lihua is one of the first vertically integrated companies in China to develop, design, manufacture, market and distribute lower cost, high quality, alternatives to pure copper magnet wire. Lihua’s products include copper-clad aluminum wire (“CCA”) and recycled scrap copper wire and are sold in China either directly to manufacturers or through distributors in the wire and cable industries and manufacturers in the consumer electronics, white goods, automotive, utility, telecommunications and specialty cable industries. Lihua’s corporate and manufacturing headquarters are located in the heart of China’s copper industry in Danyang, Jiangsu Province. For more information, please visit http://www.lihuaintl.com .

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains certain statements that may be deemed to be “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, that address activities, events or developments that the Company expects, projects, believes or anticipates will or may occur in the future, including, without limitation, statements about its business or growth strategy, general industry conditions including availability of copper or recycled scrap copper, future operating results of the Company, capital expenditures, expansion and growth opportunities, bank borrowings, financing activities and other such matters, are forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that its expectations stated in this press release are based on reasonable assumptions, actual results may differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements.

Please note that information in this press release reflects management views as of the date of issuance.

Regulation G

To supplement our consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP, we use non-GAAP measures, such as Adjusted Net Income, which exclude certain non-cash expenses. This non-GAAP adjustment is provided to enhance the user’s overall understanding of our historical and current financial performance and our prospects for the future. We believe the non-GAAP results provide useful information to both management and investors by excluding certain expenses we believe are not indicative of our core operating results. We have provided above Net Income for the period discussed, which is the most directly comparable GAAP measure to Adjusted Net Income.

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Lihua International (LIWA) Announces Preliminary Unaudited 2009 Financial Results

Hercules (HERO) Offshore Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2009 Results

Mar. 2, 2010 (PR Newswire) —

HOUSTON, March 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Hercules Offshore, Inc. (Nasdaq: HERO) today reported a loss from continuing operations of $26.9 million, or $0.23 per diluted share, on revenues of $176.4 million for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2009, versus a loss from continuing operations of $1.1 billion, or $12.90 per diluted share, on revenues of $313.5 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2008.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050601/DAW092LOGO)

When adjusting for certain items outlined in the attached Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures, the Company reported a loss from continuing operations of $25.8 million, or $0.23 per diluted share for the fourth quarter 2009, compared with income from continuing operations of $36.2 million, or $0.41 per diluted share for the fourth quarter 2008, also adjusted for certain items. The fourth quarter 2009 loss of $0.23 per diluted share has not been adjusted for the accounts receivable reserve and related items associated with the Hercules 185 which adversely impacted the results on a pre-tax basis by a net of $31.6 million. The accounts receivable reserve associated with Hercules 185 was reduced from the previously announced amount by $3.0 million due to a payment received.

The Company reported a loss from continuing operations of $90.1 million, or $0.93 per diluted share, on revenues of $742.9 million for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2009, versus a loss from continuing operations of $1.1 billion, or $12.25 per diluted share, on revenues of $1.1 billion for the twelve month period ended December 31, 2008.

The Company reported a loss from continuing operations for the twelve months ended December 31, 2009, of $75.2 million, or $0.77 per diluted share, as adjusted for certain items, compared to income from continuing operations of $92.9 million, or $1.04 per diluted share for the twelve months ended December 31, 2008, also adjusted for certain items.

John T. Rynd, Chief Executive Officer and President of Hercules Offshore stated, “Our fourth quarter 2009 results were adversely impacted by the accounts receivable reserve in International Offshore as well as relatively weak business conditions in our Domestic Offshore and Inland segments. However, solid results from our cost reduction measures partially offset these challenges. Overall, 2009 was one of the most difficult years our industry has ever seen and I am extremely proud of the proactive response by our management team and employees to enhance revenue opportunities, eliminate costs, reduce capital spending and strengthen our capital structure.”

Mr. Rynd continued, “While the slope of the recovery is still uncertain, we believe that the recovery is underway, as evidenced by the recent increase in our Domestic Offshore activity levels and our increasing backlog which is providing better visibility than we have had in over a year. The recent strengthening and stabilization in commodity prices, reduced oilfield service costs, the improvement in the capital markets and feedback we have received from our customers are all pointing toward increasing exploration and production spending both in the U.S. and internationally, which serve to reinforce our belief that the industry has entered the initial stages of recovery.”

Offshore

Domestic Offshore revenues in the fourth quarter 2009 decreased to $25.8 million from $109.7 million in the fourth quarter 2008 due to declines in both operating days and dayrates which were primarily caused by weak demand. Fourth quarter 2009 average revenue per rig per day decreased to $37,799 compared to $72,008 in the fourth quarter 2008, while operating days declined to 682 from 1,524, in the same periods, respectively. The decline in revenue was partially offset by a 28% reduction in operating costs to $43.8 million in the fourth quarter 2009 from $61.0 million in the fourth quarter 2008 as a result of the Company’s stacking plan. Domestic Offshore recorded an operating loss of $34.5 million for the fourth quarter 2009 compared with operating income of $29.9 million, before the impairment of property and equipment and goodwill, for the fourth quarter 2008.

International Offshore generated revenues of $98.5 million in the fourth quarter 2009, a slight increase from $93.2 million in the fourth quarter 2008. Average revenue per rig per day increased to $131,571 from $127,981 in the same periods, respectively, despite a decline in market dayrates as the Company benefitted from a change in the mix of rigs working. Operating days increased modestly to 749 in the fourth quarter 2009 from 728 in the fourth quarter 2008, as a result of the fourth quarter 2008 and first quarter 2009 commencement of operations on our two jackup rigs operating in Saudi Arabia, largely offset by fewer operating days on the Hercules 156 and Hercules 170, which were warm stacked earlier in 2009, and the Hercules 206, which has mobilized to the U.S. Gulf of Mexico in November 2009 from Mexico. Fourth quarter 2009 operating income was $11.2 million, including the net charge of $31.6 million related to the Hercules 185 compared to operating income of $43.3 million in the comparable quarter, excluding the impairment of goodwill. The Company continues to pursue all commercial and legal avenues for the collection of the receivable related to the Hercules 185. Although the amount owed by the customer remains undisputed and the Company recently received a $3.0 million payment from the customer, the collection of the receivable remains uncertain.

Inland

During the fourth quarter 2009, Inland revenues declined to $4.3 million from $37.5 million in the fourth quarter 2008 due to extremely weak demand, which also led to a decline in average revenue per rig per day to $18,346 from $39,454 in the same periods, respectively. Operating days declined to 237 in the fourth quarter 2009 from 951 in the fourth quarter 2008. However, utilization of marketed rigs increased to 85.9% in the fourth quarter 2009 from 68.9% in the comparable period of 2008 because of significantly reduced available days resulting from our stacking plan, which also led to a 72.3% reduction in operating expenses to $8.0 million in the fourth quarter 2009 from $29.0 million in the fourth quarter 2008. Inland recorded an operating loss of $11.9 million in the fourth quarter 2009 versus a fourth quarter 2008 operating loss of $8.5 million excluding the effect of impairment charges.

Liftboats

Domestic Liftboats generated revenues of $14.8 million during the fourth quarter 2009 compared to revenues of $31.2 million in the fourth quarter 2008. Utilization decreased to 62.5% in the fourth quarter 2009, following a mild hurricane season from 81.4% in the same period of 2008, which was bolstered by repair work stemming from Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. As a result of the reduced demand and a fleet mix shift following the mobilization of four of our larger class liftboats to West Africa, average revenue per liftboat per day declined to $6,780 in the fourth quarter 2009 from $9,918 in the fourth quarter 2008. The reduced fleet size and decline in utilization led to a reduction in operating income to approximately $353,000 in fourth quarter 2009 from $12.3 million in the fourth quarter 2008.

During the fourth quarter 2009, International Liftboats generated revenues of $26.8 million compared to $27.0 million in the fourth quarter 2008. Average revenue per liftboat per day increased slightly to $21,972 from $20,177 in the fourth quarters of 2009 and 2008, respectively. Partially offsetting the higher average revenue per liftboat per day was a decrease in utilization to 63.3% in the fourth quarter 2009 from 78.3% in the fourth quarter 2008, due to weak demand, particularly for the smaller vessels, and an extensive drydocking schedule. Our average operating expense per liftboat per day increased to $8,582 in the fourth quarter 2009 from $6,643 in the fourth quarter 2008 largely driven by expenses related to the mobilization of the four aforementioned liftboats as well as the mix shift in the type of liftboats. As a result, operating income decreased to $4.6 million in the fourth quarter 2009 from $10.9 million in the fourth quarter 2008.

Liquidity and Capitalization

At December 31, 2009, the Company had unrestricted cash and equivalents totaling $140.8 million and unused capacity of $165.0 million under its revolving credit facility. As of December 31, 2009, the Company’s balance sheet reflects total debt of $861.7 million. Cash flow provided by operations was $17.9 million and capital expenditures plus deferred drydocking expenditures were $6.7 million during the three months ended December 31, 2009.

Non-GAAP

Certain non-GAAP performance measures and corresponding reconciliations to GAAP financial measures for the Company have been provided for meaningful comparisons between current results and prior operating periods. Generally, a non-GAAP financial measure is a numerical measure of a company’s performance, financial position, or cash flows that excludes or includes amounts that are not normally excluded or included in the most directly comparable measure calculated and presented in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. In order to fully assess the financial operating results, management believes that the adjusted income (loss) from continuing operations figures included in this release are appropriate measures of the continuing and normal operations of the Company. However, these measures should be considered in addition to, and not as a substitute, or superior to, income (loss) from continuing operations, operating income (loss), cash flows from operations, or other measures of financial performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. The non-GAAP measures included in this press release have been reconciled to the nearest GAAP measure in the table that follows the financial statements.

Please see the attached Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures for a complete description of the adjustments made to Operating Income (Loss), Net Income (Loss) From Continuing Operations and Diluted Earnings (Loss) per Share from Continuing Operations.

Conference Call Information

Hercules Offshore will conduct a conference call at 10:00 a.m. CST (11:00 a.m. EST) on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, to discuss its fourth quarter and year end 2009 financial results. To participate in the call, dial 800-901-5231 (domestic) or 617-786-2961 (international) and reference access code 99167334 approximately 10 minutes prior to the start of the call. The conference call will also be broadcast live via the Internet at http://www.herculesoffshore.com.

A replay of the conference call will be available by telephone on Tuesday, March 2, 2010, beginning at 1:00 p.m. CST (2:00 p.m. EST), through Tuesday, March 9, 2010. The phone number for the conference call replay is 888-286-8010 (domestic) or 617-801-6888 (international) with reference code 93181822. Additionally, the recorded conference call will be accessible through our Web site at http://www.herculesoffshore.com for 28 days after the conference call.

Additional Information

Headquartered in Houston, Hercules Offshore, Inc. operates a fleet of 30 jackup rigs, 17 barge rigs, 65 liftboats, three submersible rigs, one platform rig and a fleet of marine support vessels, and has operations in nine different countries on three continents. The Company offers a range of services to oil and gas producers to meet their needs during drilling, well service, platform inspection, maintenance, and decommissioning operations in shallow waters.

For more information, please visit our Web site at http://www.herculesoffshore.com.

The news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included in this news release that address outlook, activities, events or developments that we expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. Such statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including the factors described in Hercules Offshore’s most recent periodic reports and other documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which are available free of charge at the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov or the Company’s Web site at http://www.herculesoffshore.com. Hercules Offshore cautions you that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and that actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected or implied in these statements. Risks and uncertainties that may affect our actual results include, among other things, oil and natural gas prices and industry expectations about future prices; demand for our rigs and vessels; future utilization rates and dayrates; our ability to enter into and the terms of future contracts and the collection of accounts receivable; sufficiency and availability of financing and compliance with our debt covenants; the impact of governmental laws and regulations; increases in operating expenses; uncertainties relating to the level of activity in offshore oil and natural gas exploration, development and production; labor relations and work stoppages; operating hazards such as severe weather and seas, fires, blowouts, war, terrorism, and inadequate insurance coverage; compliance with or breach of environmental laws; the business impact of newly constructed rigs; the effect of litigation and contingencies; and the inability to carry out our business strategies.

                  HERCULES OFFSHORE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                        CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                               (In thousands)                          

                                               December 31,  December 31,
                                                    2009         2008
                                                    ----         ----
                                                (Unaudited)
    ASSETS
      Current Assets:
        Cash and Cash Equivalents                 $140,828     $106,455
        Restricted Cash                              3,658            -
        Accounts Receivable, Net                   133,662      293,089
        Prepaids                                    13,706       23,033
        Current Deferred Tax Asset                  22,885       17,379
        Assets Held for Sale                             -       39,623
        Other                                        6,675       19,946
                                                     -----       ------
                                                   321,414      499,525

      Property and Equipment, Net                1,923,603    2,049,030
      Other Assets, Net                             32,459       42,340
                                                    ------       ------

                                                $2,277,476   $2,590,895
                                                ==========   ==========

    LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
      Current Liabilities:
        Short-term Debt and Current Portion
         of Long-term Debt                          $4,952      $11,455
        Insurance Notes Payable                      5,484       11,126
        Accounts Payable                            51,868       99,823
        Accrued Liabilities                         67,773       83,424
        Interest Payable                             6,624          506
        Taxes Payable                                5,671       32,440
        Other Current Liabilities                   34,229       35,966
                                                    ------       ------
                                                   176,601      274,740

      Long-term Debt, Net of Current Portion       856,755    1,015,764
      Other Liabilities                             19,809       35,529
      Deferred Income Taxes                        245,799      339,547

      Commitments and Contingencies                                    

      Stockholders' Equity                         978,512      925,315
                                                   -------      -------

                                                $2,277,476   $2,590,895
                                                ==========   ==========

                      HERCULES OFFSHORE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
                       (In thousands, except per share data)               

                           Three Months Ended        Twelve Months Ended
                               December 31,               December 31,
                          -----------------------   -------------------------
                            2009         2008          2009          2008
                            ----         ----          ----          ----
                         (Unaudited)  (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)             

    Revenues              $176,407     $313,469      $742,851    $1,111,807 

    Costs and Expenses:
      Operating Expenses   125,437      161,573       514,136       631,711
      Impairment of
       Goodwill                  -      950,287             -       950,287
      Impairment of
       Property and
       Equipment                 -      376,668        26,882       376,668
      Depreciation and
       Amortization         49,682       51,744       201,421       192,894
      General and
       Administrative       44,002       23,383        92,558        81,160
                            ------       ------        ------        ------
                           219,121    1,563,655       834,997     2,232,720
                           -------    ---------       -------     --------- 

    Operating Loss         (42,714)  (1,250,186)      (92,146)   (1,120,913)

    Other Income (Expense):
      Interest Expense     (23,505)     (15,793)      (77,986)      (63,778)
      Expense of Credit
       Agreement Fees            -            -       (15,073)            -
      Gain (Loss) on Early
       Retirement of Debt,
       Net                  (1,590)      26,345        12,157        26,345
      Other, Net             1,207          497         3,967         3,315
                             -----          ---         -----         ----- 

    Loss Before
     Income Taxes          (66,602)  (1,239,137)     (169,081)   (1,155,031)
    Income Tax Benefit      39,721      104,149        78,932        73,161
                            ------      -------        ------        ------
    Loss from Continuing
     Operations            (26,881)  (1,134,988)      (90,149)   (1,081,870)
    Income (Loss) from
     Discontinued
     Operation, Net of
     Taxes                     380         (754)       (1,585)       (1,520)
                               ---         ----        ------        ------
    Net Loss              $(26,501) $(1,135,742)     $(91,734)  $(1,083,390)
                          ========  ===========      ========   =========== 

    Basic Loss Per Share:
      Loss from Continuing
       Operations           $(0.23)     $(12.90)       $(0.93)      $(12.25)
      Income (Loss)
       from Discontinued
       Operation                 -        (0.01)        (0.01)        (0.01)
                               ---        -----         -----         -----
      Net Loss              $(0.23)     $(12.91)       $(0.94)      $(12.26)
                            ======      =======        ======       ======= 

    Diluted Loss Per Share:
      Loss from Continuing
       Operations           $(0.23)     $(12.90)       $(0.93)      $(12.25)
      Income (Loss)
       from Discontinued
       Operation                 -        (0.01)        (0.01)        (0.01)
                               ---        -----         -----         -----
      Net Loss              $(0.23)     $(12.91)       $(0.94)      $(12.26)
                            ======      =======        ======       ======= 

    Weighted Average
     Shares Outstanding:
      Basic                114,564       87,970        97,114        88,351
      Diluted              114,564       87,970        97,114        88,351 

                  HERCULES OFFSHORE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                   CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
                               (In thousands)
                                                 Twelve Months Ended
                                                     December 31,
                                                 -------------------
                                                   2009         2008
                                                   ----         ----
                                                (Unaudited)
    Cash Flows from Operating Activities:
      Net Loss                                    (91,734) $(1,083,390)
      Adjustments to Reconcile Net
       Loss to Net Cash Provided by
        Operating Activities:
          Depreciation and Amortization           201,421      192,918
          Stock-Based Compensation Expense          8,257       12,535
          Deferred Income Taxes                   (89,295)    (118,685)
          Provision for Doubtful Accounts
           Receivable                              32,912        6,167
          Amortization of Deferred Financing Fees   3,594        4,036
          Amortization of Original Issue Discount   4,120        4,292
          Non-Cash Loss on Derivatives              1,429            -
          Gain on Insurance Settlement             (8,700)           -
          Gain on Disposal of Assets                 (970)      (3,029)
          Expense of Credit Agreement Fees         15,073            -
          Gain on Early Retirement of Debt, Net   (12,157)     (26,345)
          Impairment of Goodwill                        -      950,287
          Impairment of Property and Equipment     26,882      376,668
          Excess Tax Benefit from Stock-Based
           Arrangements                            (4,571)      (5,860)
        Net Change in Operating Assets and
         Liabilities                               52,658      (39,646)
                                                   ------      -------
            Net Cash Provided by Operating
             Activities                           138,919      269,948 

    Cash Flows from Investing Activities:
      Acquisition of Assets                             -     (320,839)
      Additions of Property and Equipment         (76,141)    (264,245)
      Deferred Drydocking Expenditures            (15,646)     (17,269)
      Proceeds from Sale of Marketable Securities       -       39,300
      Insurance Proceeds Received                   9,168       30,221
      Proceeds from Sale of Assets, Net            25,767       17,045
      Increase in Restricted Cash                  (3,658)           -
                                                   ------          ---
            Net Cash Used in Investing
             Activities                           (60,510)    (515,787)

    Cash Flows from Financing Activities:
      Short-term Debt Borrowings (Repayments),
       Net                                         (2,455)       2,455
      Long-term Debt Borrowings                   292,149      350,000
      Long-term Debt Repayments                  (403,648)    (121,427)
      Redemption of 3.375% Convertible Senior
       Notes                                       (6,099)     (44,848)
      Common Stock Issuance (Repurchase)           89,600      (49,228)
      Proceeds from Exercise of Stock Options           -        5,127
      Excess Tax Benefit from Stock-Based
       Arrangements                                 4,571        5,860
      Payment of Debt Issuance Costs              (18,143)      (8,097)
      Other                                           (11)           -
                                                      ---          ---
            Net Cash Provided by (Used in)
             Financing Activities                 (44,036)     139,842 

    Net Increase (Decrease) in Cash and
     Cash Equivalents                              34,373     (105,997)
    Cash and Cash Equivalents at Beginning
     of Period                                    106,455      212,452
                                                  -------      -------
    Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of
     Period                                      $140,828     $106,455
                                                 ========     ======== 

                          HERCULES OFFSHORE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                            SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA
                       (Dollars in thousands, except per day amounts)
                                         (Unaudited)                 

                                Three Months Ended     Twelve Months Ended
                                    December 31,          December 31,
                                ------------------     -------------------
                                  2009       2008         2009       2008
                                  ----       ----         ----       ----
    Domestic Offshore:
      Number of rigs (as of end
       of period) (a)                 24          27         24          27
      Revenues                   $25,779    $109,740   $140,889    $382,358
      Operating expenses          43,838      60,988    175,473     227,884
      Impairment of goodwill           -     507,194          -     507,194
      Impairment of property and
       equipment                       -     174,613          -     174,613
      Depreciation and
       amortization expense       15,525      17,765     60,775      66,850
      General and administrative
       expenses                      901       1,057      6,496       4,673
                                     ---       -----      -----       -----
      Operating loss            $(34,485)  $(651,877) $(101,855)  $(598,856)
                                ========   =========  =========   ========= 

    International Offshore:
      Number of rigs (as of end
       of period) (b)                 10          12         10          12
      Revenues                   $98,547     $93,170   $393,797    $327,983
      Operating expenses          41,940      37,281    169,418     147,899
      Impairment of goodwill           -     150,886          -     150,886
      Impairment of property and
       equipment                       -           -     26,882           -
      Depreciation and
       amortization expense       15,106      11,471     63,808      37,865
      General and administrative
       expenses                   30,312       1,166     35,694       2,980
                                  ------       -----     ------       -----
      Operating income (loss)    $11,189   $(107,634)   $97,995    $(11,647)
                                 =======   =========    =======    ======== 

    Inland:
      Number of barges (as of
       end of period) (a)             17          27         17          27
      Revenues                    $4,348     $37,521    $19,794    $162,487
      Operating expenses           8,030      28,987     44,593     125,656
      Impairment of goodwill           -     205,474          -     205,474
      Impairment of property and
       equipment                       -     202,055          -     202,055
      Depreciation and
       amortization expense        8,023      11,577     32,465      43,107
      General and administrative
       expenses                      243       5,497      1,831       8,347
                                     ---       -----      -----       -----
      Operating loss            $(11,948)  $(416,069)  $(59,095)  $(422,152)
                                ========   =========   ========   ========= 

    Domestic Liftboats:
      Number of liftboats
       (as of end of period) (C)      41          45         41          45
      Revenues                   $14,822     $31,191    $75,584     $94,755
      Operating expenses           9,461      13,346     48,738      54,474
      Depreciation and
       amortization expense        4,423       4,848     20,267      21,317
      General and administrative
       expenses                      585         669      2,039       2,386
                                     ---         ---      -----       -----
      Operating income              $353     $12,328     $4,540     $16,578
                                    ====     =======     ======     ======= 

    (a) In January 2009, we retired four Domestic Offshore rigs and ten
        Inland barges. In November 2009, we transferred Hercules 206 to
        Domestic Offshore to be cold-stacked. 

    (b) In August 2009, we sold Hercules 110 which was cold-stacked in
        Trinidad. In November 2009, we transferred Hercules 206 to Domestic
        Offshore to be cold-stacked. 

    (c) The number of liftboats as of December 31, 2009 reflects the transfer
        of four liftboats from our Domestic Liftboats segment to our
        International Liftboats segment. The financial results of these four
        vessels are reflected in International Liftboats from the date of
        transfer which occurred during the three months ended  September 30,
        2009. 

                  HERCULES OFFSHORE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
            SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA - (Continued)
               (Dollars in thousands, except per day amounts)
                               (Unaudited)                               

                             Three Months Ended       Twelve Months Ended
                                December 31,              December 31,
                             ------------------       --------------------
                              2009        2008          2009         2008
                              ----        ----          ----         ---- 

    International Liftboats:
      Number of liftboats
       (as of end of
        period) (C)              24           20            24           20
      Revenues              $26,828      $26,977       $88,537      $85,896
      Operating expenses     16,563       11,346        48,240       39,122
      Depreciation and
       amortization expense   4,208        2,417        12,880        9,912
      General and
       administrative
       expenses               1,442        2,296         4,990        5,990
                              -----        -----         -----        -----
      Operating income       $4,615      $10,918       $22,427      $30,872
                             ======      =======       =======      ======= 

    Delta Towing:
      Revenues               $6,083      $14,870       $24,250      $58,328
      Operating expenses      5,605        9,625        27,674       36,676
      Impairment of goodwill      -       86,733             -       86,733
      Depreciation and
       amortization expense   1,599        2,869         7,917       10,926
      General and
       administrative
       expenses                 312        2,128         1,336        4,058
                                ---        -----         -----        -----
      Operating loss        $(1,433)    $(86,485)     $(12,677)    $(80,065)
                            =======     ========      ========     ======== 

    Total Company:
      Revenues             $176,407     $313,469      $742,851   $1,111,807
      Operating expenses    125,437      161,573       514,136      631,711
      Impairment of
       goodwill                   -      950,287             -      950,287
      Impairment of
       property and
       equipment                  -      376,668        26,882      376,668
      Depreciation and
       amortization expense  49,682       51,744       201,421      192,894
      General and
       administrative
       expenses              44,002       23,383        92,558       81,160
                             ------       ------        ------       ------
      Operating loss        (42,714)  (1,250,186)      (92,146)  (1,120,913)
        Interest expense    (23,505)     (15,793)      (77,986)     (63,778)
        Expense of Credit
         Agreement Fees           -            -       (15,073)           -
        Gain (Loss) on early
         retirement of debt,
         net                 (1,590)      26,345        12,157       26,345
        Other, net            1,207          497         3,967        3,315
                              -----          ---         -----        -----
      Loss before income
       taxes                (66,602)  (1,239,137)     (169,081)  (1,155,031)
        Income tax benefit   39,721      104,149        78,932       73,161
                             ------      -------        ------       ------
      Loss from continuing
       operations           (26,881)  (1,134,988)      (90,149)  (1,081,870)
      Income (loss) from
       discontinued
       operation,
       net of taxes             380         (754)       (1,585)      (1,520)
                                ---         ----        ------       ------
      Net Loss             $(26,501) $(1,135,742)     $(91,734) $(1,083,390)
                           ========  ===========      ========  =========== 

    (c) The number of liftboats as of December 31, 2009 reflects the
        transfer of four liftboats from our Domestic Liftboats segment to
        our International Liftboats segment.  The financial results of these
        four vessels are reflected in International Liftboats from the date
        of transfer which occurred during the three months ended September 30,
        2009. 

                   HERCULES OFFSHORE, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
              SELECTED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING DATA - (Continued)
                 (Dollars in thousands, except per day amounts)
                              (Unaudited)                                  

                             Three Months Ended December 31, 2009
                             ------------------------------------ 

                                                                     Average
                                                       Average      Operating
                 Operating   Available               Revenue per   Expense per
                    Days       Days    Utilization(1)    Day(2)       Day (3)
                    ----       ----    -------------     ------       -------
      Domestic
       Offshore      682      1,012         67.4%        $37,799      $43,318
      International
       Offshore      749        951         78.8%        131,571       44,101
      Inland         237        276         85.9%         18,346       29,094
      Domestic
       Liftboats   2,186      3,496         62.5%          6,780        2,706
      International
       Liftboats   1,221      1,930         63.3%         21,972        8,582

                           Three Months Ended December 31, 2008
                           ------------------------------------
                                                                     Average
                                                        Average     Operating
                 Operating   Available                Revenue per  Expense per
                    Days       Days    Utilization(1)    Day(2)       Day (3)
                    ----       ----    -------------     ------       -------
      Domestic
       Offshore    1,524      2,024         75.3%        $72,008      $30,132
      International
       Offshore      728        791         92.0%        127,981       47,131
      Inland         951      1,380         68.9%         39,454       21,005
      Domestic
       Liftboats   3,145      3,864         81.4%          9,918        3,454
      International
       Liftboats   1,337      1,708         78.3%         20,177        6,643

                           Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2009
                           -------------------------------------            

                                                                     Average
                                                        Average     Operating
                 Operating   Available                Revenue per  Expense per
                    Days       Days    Utilization(1)    Day(2)      Day (3)
                    ----       ----    -------------     ------      -------
      Domestic
       Offshore    2,676      4,544         58.9%        $52,649      $38,616
      International
       Offshore    3,100      3,714         83.5%        127,031       45,616
      Inland         651      1,578         41.3%         30,406       28,259
      Domestic
       Liftboats   9,535     14,804         64.4%          7,927        3,292
      International
       Liftboats   4,293      7,209         59.6%         20,624        6,692

                          Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2008
                          -------------------------------------              

                                                                    Average
                                                        Average    Operating
                 Operating   Available                Revenue per  Expense per
                    Days       Days    Utilization(1)    Day(2)      Day (3)
                    ----       ----    -------------     ------      -------
      Domestic
       Offshore    5,907      8,166         72.3%        $64,730      $27,906
      International
       Offshore    2,753      3,005         91.6%        119,137       49,218
      Inland       4,048      5,885         68.8%         40,140       21,352
      Domestic
       Liftboats  10,343     15,785         65.5%          9,161        3,451
      International
       Liftboats   5,028      6,501         77.3%         17,084        6,018

    (1)  Utilization is defined as the total number of days our rigs or
         liftboats, as applicable, were under contract, known as operating
         days, in the period as a percentage of the total number of available
         days in the period.  Days during which our rigs and liftboats were
         undergoing major refurbishments, upgrades or construction, and days
         during which our rigs and liftboats are cold-stacked, are not counted
         as available days. Days during which our liftboats are in the
         shipyard undergoing drydocking or inspection are considered available
         days for the purposes of calculating utilization.     

    (2)  Average revenue per rig or liftboat per day is defined as revenue
         earned by our rigs or liftboats, as applicable, in the period divided
         by the total number of operating days for our rigs or liftboats, as
         applicable, in the period.  Included in International Offshore
         revenue is a total of $3.9 million and $16.3 million related to
         amortization of deferred mobilization revenue and contract specific
         capital expenditures reimbursed by the customer for the three and
         twelve months ended December 31, 2009, respectively and $2.3 million
         and $11.6 million for the three and twelve months ended December 31,
         2008, respectively.  Included in International Liftboats revenue is a
         total of $0.1 million and $0.2 million related to amortization of
         deferred mobilization revenue for the three and twelve months ended
         December 31, 2009, respectively and $0.3 million for both the three
         and twelve months ended December 31, 2008.    

    (3)  Average operating expense per rig or liftboat per day is defined as
         operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization, incurred
         by our rigs or liftboats, as applicable, in the period divided by the
         total number of available days in the period.  We use available days
         to calculate average operating expense per rig or liftboat per day
         rather than operating days, which are used to calculate average
         revenue per rig or liftboat per day, because we incur operating
         expenses on our rigs and liftboats even when they are not under
         contract and earning a dayrate. In addition, the operating expenses
         we incur on our rigs and liftboats per day when they are not under
         contract are typically lower than the per-day expenses we incur when
         they are under contract.  Included in International Offshore
         operating expense is a total of $3.6 million and $6.3 million
         related to amortization of deferred mobilization expenses, including
         a $2.6 million charge to impair the deferred mobilization costs
         related to one international contract, for the three and twelve
         months ended December 31, 2009, respectively and $1.0 million and
         $5.6 million for the three and twelve months ended December 31, 2008,
         respectively.  Included in International Liftboats operating expense
         is a total of $0.2 million related to amortization of deferred
         mobilization expenses for both the three and twelve months ended
         December 31, 2009. There was no such operating expense for the
         three and twelve months ended December 31, 2008.    

                      Hercules Offshore, Inc. and Subsidiaries
                Reconciliation of GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures
                                   (Unaudited)
                       (In thousands, except per share data)          

    We report our financial results in accordance with generally accepted
    accounting principles (GAAP). However, management believes that certain non-GAAP performance measures and ratios may provide users of this
    financial information additional meaningful comparisons between current results and results in prior operating periods. One such non-GAAP
    financial measure we may present from time to time is operating income,
    income from continuing operations or diluted earnings per share excluding certain charges or amounts. This adjusted income amount is not a measure
    of financial performance under GAAP. Accordingly, it should not be considered as a substitute for operating income, income from continuing
    operations, net income, earnings per share or other income data prepared in accordance with GAAP.  See the table below for supplemental financial
    data and corresponding reconciliations to GAAP financial measures for the
    three and twelve months ended December 31, 2009 and 2008.  Non-GAAP
    financial measures should be viewed in addition to, and not as an
    alternative for, the Company's reported results prepared in accordance with GAAP. The non-GAAP measures included in this press release have been
    reconciled to the nearest GAAP measure in the following table: 

                             Three Months Ended         Twelve Months Ended
                                December 31,                December 31,
                             ------------------         -------------------
                              2009         2008          2009         2008
                              ----         ----          ----         ----  

    Operating Income (Loss):
      GAAP Operating
       Loss              $(42,714)   $(1,250,186)   $(92,146)  $(1,120,913)
      Adjustment                -(a)   1,328,914(b)   26,882(c)  1,334,423(d)
                              ---      ---------      ------     ---------
      Non-GAAP Operating
      Income (Loss)      $(42,714)       $78,728    $(65,264)     $213,510
                         ========        =======    ========      ======== 

    Other Income (Expense):
      GAAP Other Income
      (Expense)          $(23,888)       $11,049    $(76,935)     $(34,118)
      Adjustment            1,590(a)     (26,345)(b)   2,916(c)    (26,345)(d)
                            -----        -------       -----       -------
      Non-GAAP Other
       Expense           $(22,298)      $(15,296)   $(74,019)     $(60,463)
                         ========       ========    ========      ======== 

    Benefit (Provision) for
      Income Taxes:
       GAAP Benefit for
       Income Taxes       $39,721       $104,149     $78,932       $73,161
      Tax Impact of
       Adjustment            (557)(a)   (131,403)(b) (14,799)(c)  (133,331)(d)
                             ----       --------     -------      --------
      Non-GAAP Benefit
       (Provision) for
       Income Taxes       $39,164       $(27,254)    $64,133      $(60,170)
                          =======       ========     =======      ======== 

    Income (Loss) from
     Continuing Operations:
      GAAP Loss from
       Continuing
       Operations        $(26,881)   $(1,134,988)   $(90,149)  $(1,081,870)
      Total Adjustment,
       Net of Tax           1,033(a)   1,171,166(b)   14,999(c)  1,174,747(d)
                            -----      ---------      ------     ---------
      Non-GAAP Income
       (Loss) from
       Continuing
       Operations        $(25,848)       $36,178    $(75,150)      $92,877
                         ========        =======    ========       ======= 

    Diluted Earnings (Loss) per
     Share from Continuing
     Operations:
      GAAP Diluted Loss
       per Share from
       Continuing
       Operations          $(0.23)       $(12.90)     $(0.93)      $(12.25)
      Adjustment
       per Share                -(a)       13.31(b)     0.16(c)      13.29(d)
                              ---          -----        ----         -----
      Non-GAAP Diluted
       Earnings (Loss)
       per Share from
       Continuing
       Operations          $(0.23)         $0.41      $(0.77)        $1.04
                           ======          =====      ======         ===== 

    (a) This amount represents a non-cash charge of $1.6 million related to
        the write-off of unamortized issuance cost in connection with the
        early retirement of a portion of our term loan facility. On an after-
        tax basis, this adjustment approximated $1.0 million, or zero cents
        per diluted share. 

    (b) These amounts represent a non-cash charge of $1.3 billion to reflect
        the impairment of goodwill and property and equipment, $2.0 million
        of separation and benefit related costs associated with the Company's
        executive management changes, a $28.4 million gain on the repurchase
        of $88.2 million aggregate principal amount of the Company's 3.375%
        Convertible Senior Notes as well as the related write-off of
        unamortized issuance costs of $2.1 million.  On an after-tax basis,
        these adjustments approximated $1.2 billion, or $13.31 per diluted
        share. 

    (c) These amounts represent (i) a non-cash charge of $26.9 million to
        reflect the impairment of the Hercules 110; (ii) a $10.7 million
        gain on the repurchase of $20.0 million  aggregate principal amount
        of our 3.375% Convertible Senior Notes offset by the write-off of
        unamortized issuance cost of $0.4 million; (iii) a $4.4 million gain
        on the retirement of $45.8 million aggregate principal amount of our
        3.375% Convertible Senior Notes in exchange for 7,755,440 of our
        common shares offset by the write-off of unamortized issuance cost of
        $1.0 million; (iv) a $10.8 million charge due to the write-off of
        previously deferred unamortized debt issuance costs in connection with
        the amendment of our Credit Agreement; (v) a $4.3 million charge
        related to certain fees paid to third-parties associated with the
        amendment of our Credit Agreement and (vi) a non-cash charge of $1.6
        million related to the write-off of unamortized issuance cost in
        connection with the early retirement of a portion of our term loan
        facility. On an after-tax basis, these adjustments approximated $15.0
        million, or 16 cents per diluted share. 

    (d) These amounts represent a non-cash charge of $1.3 billion to reflect
        the impairment of goodwill and property and equipment, $7.5 million of
        separation and benefit related costs associated with the Company's
        executive management changes, a $28.4 million gain on the repurchase
        of $88.2 million aggregate principal amount of the Company's 3.375%
        Convertible Senior Notes as well as the related write-off of
        unamortized issuance costs of $2.1 million.  On an after-tax basis,
        these adjustments approximated $1.2 billion, or $13.29 per diluted
        share.
Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Hercules (HERO) Offshore Announces Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2009 Results

Sonic Solutions (SNIC) Expands Small Screen Access to Digital Entertainment

Mar. 2, 2010 (PR Newswire) —

NOVATO, Calif., March 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Sonic Solutions® (Nasdaq: SNIC), today announced that the Roxio CinemaNow(TM) entertainment platform now supports digital movie delivery to the Windows Mobile platform. The latest support further expands the reach of the Roxio CinemaNow platform and provides retailers and content owners with another way to reach entertainment lovers on the go.

While supporting handsets running the Windows Mobile Operating System, the Roxio CinemaNow platform provides retailers and content owners with the opportunity to provide instant entertainment access to consumers using Android-based smartphones, as well as DivX Certified® mobile devices. In addition to supporting a range of mobile operating systems, the Roxio CinemaNow platform allows partners to also provide premium content services on an ever expanding ecosystem of connected TVs, Blu-ray Disc players, PCs, set-top boxes, mobile media players, and netbooks from a range of manufacturers.

“Sonic’s goal is to leverage device and format expertise built over two decades to power digital delivery as a format that offers consumers greater convenience and flexibility than physical discs,” said Dave Habiger, president and CEO of Sonic Solutions. “In collaboration with our retail partners, we will continue to add new platform support and build out an open system that will enable consumers to buy a piece of content once, then seamlessly play it back on virtually any type of device with a screen.”

The Roxio CinemaNow entertainment platform serves a broad range of premium content, including new movies and next-day TV programs, to a growing, multi-manufacturer ecosystem of home and mobile electronics including PCs, connected TVs, set-top DVRs, Blu-ray Disc players, smartphones, and mobile media devices. The platform enables retailers and consumer electronics companies to participate in the entertainment supply chain, add value to product offerings and form ongoing relationships with customers. Roxio CinemaNow-powered stores enable consumers to instantly rent and purchase high-quality entertainment on their favorite device and, through Roxio CinemaNow online entertainment locker, the flexibility to playback content ordered on additional consumer electronics devices. As well as being available on a range of consumer electronics, Roxio CinemaNow powers digital entertainment delivery for Best Buy and Blockbuster.

About Sonic Solutions

Sonic Solutions® (NASDAQ: SNIC) is powering the digital media ecosystem through its complete range of Hollywood to Home(TM) applications, services, and technologies. Sonic’s Roxio® products enable consumers to easily manage and enjoy personal digital media content and, through Roxio CinemaNow(TM), access premium Hollywood entertainment on a broad range of connected devices. A wide array of leading technology firms, professionals, and developers rely on Sonic to bring innovative digital media functionality to next-generation devices and platforms. Sonic Solutions is headquartered in Marin County, California.

Forward Looking Statements

This release may contain forward looking statements that are based upon current expectations, including the launch, distribution, and market acceptance of Roxio CinemaNow. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward looking statements as a result of various risks and uncertainties, including those discussed in Sonic Solutions’ annual and quarterly reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission. This press release should be read in conjunction with Sonic Solutions’ most recent annual report on Form 10-K, Form 10-Q and other reports on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission, which contain a more detailed discussion of the Company’s business including risks and uncertainties that may affect future results. Sonic Solutions does not undertake to update any forward looking statements.

Sonic, the Sonic logo, Sonic Solutions, Roxio, Roxio CinemaNow, and Hollywood to Home, are trademarks or registered trademarks owned by Sonic Solutions in the United States and/or other countries. All other company or product names are trademarks of their respective owners and, in some cases, are used by Sonic Solutions under license. Specifications, pricing and delivery schedules are subject to change without notice.

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Sonic Solutions (SNIC) Expands Small Screen Access to Digital Entertainment

Questcor (QCOR) Reports Solid Fourth Quarter Results

Mar. 1, 2010 (PR Newswire) —

UNION CITY, Calif., March 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: QCOR) today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2009. The Company’s financial performance in the fourth quarter of 2009 was driven primarily by:

— a 223% increase in the number of new paid Acthar commercial
prescriptions for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) exacerbations
versus the fourth quarter of 2008,
— a sequential 56% increase in new paid Acthar commercial prescriptions
for the treatment of infantile spasms (IS), and
— lower sequential Medicaid usage.

In addition to the financial improvement in the quarter, the Company also received an encouraging initial set of Acthar prescriptions for the treatment of nephrotic syndrome (NS). Also, during the fourth quarter, the FDA accepted for review Questcor’s supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) filing which seeks approval for an indication for Acthar in the treatment of IS.

Net sales totaled $25.9 million for the quarter ended December 31, 2009 compared to $13.9 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2009, and $27.0 million for the fourth quarter of 2008. Net income for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $8.4 million, or $0.13 per diluted common share compared to $1.2 million, or $0.02 per diluted common share for the third quarter of 2009, and $16.2 million, or $0.24 per diluted common share for the fourth quarter of 2008. An additional $1.2 million in sales reserves was recorded during the fourth quarter of 2009 for retroactive Tricare rebates. Significantly higher sales reserves adjustments reduced net sales and operating income for the third quarter of 2009 by $4.6 million. Tax benefits resulting from the reversal of a valuation allowance positively affected net income in the fourth quarter of 2008 by $4.4 million.

Net sales totaled $88.3 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, compared with $95.2 million for 2008. Net income for 2009 was $26.6 million, or $0.40 per diluted common share compared with net income applicable to common shareholders of $35.3 million, or $0.49 per diluted common share for 2008. The 2008 earnings were impacted by a one-time net tax benefit of $5.2 million and a deemed dividend of $5.3 million.

“We are making excellent progress on all of Questcor’s top priorities,” said Don M. Bailey, President and CEO. “Our fourth quarter financial performance improved significantly on a sequential basis. Questcor’s sales in the MS market showed marked growth and there are preliminary indications that Acthar may also begin to be adopted in the NS market, which is much larger than either the IS or MS markets. In addition, IS prescriptions and payer mix both improved during the fourth quarter from a very weak third quarter. To date, we are seeing little or no impact on Acthar sales in the IS market from the September 2009 introduction of Sabril (vigabatrin).”

IS, MS, and NS Sales

During the fourth quarter of 2009, Questcor shipped 1,626 vials of Acthar compared to third quarter 2009 shipments of 1,354 vials and fourth quarter 2008 shipments of 1,510 vials. Because Acthar prescriptions are filled at specialty pharmacies, the Company does not receive complete information regarding either the number of prescriptions or the number of vials by therapeutic area for all of the patients being treated with Acthar. However, Questcor is able to monitor historic trends in payer mix for new Acthar prescriptions based on data it receives from its reimbursement support center. Questcor estimates that approximately 90% of new Acthar prescriptions are processed by this support center, but that very few refill prescriptions are processed at this center. The following tables show the number of prescriptions shipped by payer category for each of three therapeutic areas for those new prescriptions processed by the Questcor support center:

Multiple Sclerosis New Prescriptions
————————————
Paid/Commercial Medicaid Tricare/VA
————— ——– ———-
Q108 24 5 0
Q208 35 1 0
Q308 50 5 1
Q408 66 3 2
Total 2008 175 14 3

Q109 78 5 3
Q209 125 11 6
Q309 141 14 5
Q409 213 10 5
Total 2009 557 40 19

Infantile Spasms New Prescriptions
———————————-
Paid/Commercial Medicaid Tricare/VA
————— ——– ———-
Q108 98 38 2
Q208 114 47 3
Q308 113 67 3
Q408 103 56 3
Total 2008 428 208 11

Q109 104 70 5
Q209 93 63 5
Q309 61 55 3
Q409 95 40 5
Total 2009 353 228 18

Nephrotic Syndrome New Prescriptions
————————————
Paid/Commercial Medicaid Tricare/VA
————— ——– ———-
Q109 1 0 0
Q209 3 0 1
Q309 2 0 0
Q409 14 2 1
Total 2009 20 2 2

Note: Historical trend information is not necessarily indicative of
future results. The total number of vials associated with an individual
prescription varies by the condition being treated and by patient.

“As the above tables illustrate, our efforts in MS continue to show that the use of Acthar is expanding,” commented Steve Cartt, Executive Vice President. “Our initiatives to educate MS specialists about the treatment benefits of Acthar have resulted in a tripling in MS prescriptions year over year.”

“In addition, spontaneous IS prescriptions during the fourth quarter rebounded to 140 new paid prescriptions from a low level of 119 in the third quarter,” noted Mr. Cartt. “If we are able to receive approval from the FDA to market Acthar for the treatment of IS, we may be able to expand our sales in this therapeutic area.”

“The modest set of prescriptions for NS in the fourth quarter was an unexpected development at this stage in our efforts to generate sales in this market,” added Mr. Cartt. “NS is a devastating kidney disorder which leads to end-stage renal disease (ESRD). NS is an on-label indication for Acthar and we are working to generate more clinical data to further support the effectiveness of Acthar in the treatment of this disease.”

Sales Reserves–Medicaid, Tricare and VA Adjustments

As required by federal regulations, the Company provides rebates to state Medicaid programs for Acthar dispensed to Medicaid patients. The Medicaid rebate portion of sales reserves for the fourth quarter of 2009 was $8.4 million or 22% of 2009 fourth quarter gross sales. While total new commercially paid Acthar prescriptions for the treatment of IS processed through the Company’s reimbursement support center increased to 95 in the fourth quarter from 61 in the third quarter, the number of Medicaid-reimbursed IS prescriptions dropped 27% sequentially.

The Department of Defense (DOD) operates a prescription drug program through its Tricare Management Administration (Tricare). As a result of uncertainties in an on-going dispute between the pharmaceutical industry and the DOD over Tricare rebate regulations, Questcor recorded a sales reserve related to a portion of Tricare-claimed rebates during the third quarter of 2009. Due to recent developments in that dispute, Questcor recorded an additional $1.2 million in sales reserves during the fourth quarter of 2009 for the remaining potential Tricare-claimed rebates. Effective January 1, 2010, Questcor established new prices for Acthar purchased by Tricare and Veterans Administration (VA) medical centers. Additionally, Questcor has removed uncertainty regarding Tricare rebate liabilities going forward. The new agreement with Tricare does not diminish Questcor’s rights in regards to the fully reserved 2008-2009 liability. Any sales in 2010 to Tricare or the VA will represent an increase from the negligible net sales to these customers in 2009.

Regulatory Activity

Acthar is currently approved in the U.S. for the treatment of MS exacerbations, nephrotic syndrome and many other conditions. Acthar is not approved in the U.S. for the treatment of IS, a potentially life-threatening disorder that typically begins in the first year of life. However, pursuant to guidelines published by the American Academy of Neurology and the Child Neurology Society, many child neurologists use Acthar to treat infants afflicted with IS.

On December 23, 2009 the FDA accepted for review Questcor’s supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) seeking approval to market Acthar for the treatment of infantile spasms. The FDA has notified Questcor that an Advisory Committee Meeting of independent experts will be held to discuss the approval and use of Acthar in infantile spasms. The FDA has also notified Questcor that it has set a PDUFA goal date of June 11, 2010, but there is no assurance that this date will not be delayed. Approval of the IS indication would allow Questcor to promote the use of Acthar in treating IS to child neurologists.

Previously, the FDA granted Orphan Designation to Acthar for the treatment of IS. As a result of this Orphan Designation, if Questcor is successful in obtaining FDA approval for the IS indication, Questcor believes that it will also qualify for a seven-year exclusivity period during which the FDA is prohibited from approving any other adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) formulation for IS unless the other formulation is demonstrated to be clinically superior to Acthar.

Cash, Accounts Receivable and Share Repurchase Program

At February 26, 2010, Questcor’s cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments totaled approximately $81 million, and accounts receivable totaled approximately $9 million.

During the fourth quarter, the Company repurchased 2.5 million shares of its common stock at a total cost of $9.9 million. In the last two years, Questcor has spent $67.0 million for the repurchase of 14.5 million common and preferred shares.

As of December 31, 2009, Questcor had 61.7 million common shares outstanding, with 5.1 million shares remaining under its common share repurchase program.

Conference Call Details

The Company will host a conference call today to discuss these results at 5:00 p.m. ET. Don Bailey, President and Chief Executive Officer; Steve Cartt, Executive Vice President and Chief Business Officer; Dr. David Young, Chief Scientific Officer; Dave Medeiros, Senior Vice President, Pharmaceutical Operations; Dr. Jason Zielonka, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer; and Gary Sawka, Senior Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer will host the call.

To participate in the live call by telephone, please dial 877-941-2928 from the U.S. or 480-629-9724 from outside the U.S. Participants are asked to call the above numbers 5-10 minutes prior to the starting time. The call will also be webcast live at www.questcor.com. An audio replay of the call will be available for 7 days following the call. This replay can be accessed by dialing 800-406-7325 for domestic callers and 303-590-3030 for international callers, both using passcode 4221516#. An archived webcast will also be available at www.questcor.com.

About Questcor

Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc. is a pharmaceutical company that markets H.P. Acthar® Gel (repository corticotropin injection). H.P. Acthar Gel (“Acthar”) is an injectable drug that is approved for the treatment of certain disorders, including the treatment of exacerbations associated with multiple sclerosis (“MS”) and to induce a diuresis or a remission of proteinuria in the nephrotic syndrome without uremia of the idiopathic type or that is due to lupus erythamatosus. In addition, Acthar is not indicated for, but is used in treating patients with infantile spasms (“IS”), a rare form of refractory childhood epilepsy, and opsoclonus myoclonus syndrome, a rare autoimmune-related childhood neurological disorder. For more information, please visit www.questcor.com.

Note: Except for the historical information contained herein, this press release contains forward-looking statements that have been made pursuant to the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements relate to future events or our future financial performance. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by terminology such as “may,” “will,” “if,” “should,” “forecasts,” “expects,” “plans,” “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “predicts,” “potential,” or “continue” or the negative of such terms and other comparable terminology. These statements are only predictions. Actual events or results may differ materially. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include, but are not limited to, the following:

— Questcor’s ability to continue to successfully implement its
Acthar-centric business strategy, including its expansion in the MS
marketplace;
— FDA approval of and the market introduction of competitive products and
our inability to market Acthar in IS prior to approval of IS as a
labeled indication;
— Questcor’s ability to operate within an industry that is highly
regulated at both the Federal and state level;
— Regulatory changes or actions including Federal or State health care
reform initiatives;
— Questcor’s ability to accurately forecast the demand for its products;
— The gross margin achieved from the sale of its products;
— Questcor’s ability to estimate the quantity of Acthar used by government
entities and Medicaid-eligible patients;
— That the actual amount of rebates and chargebacks related to the use of
Acthar by government entities, including the Department of Defense
Tricare network, and Medicaid-eligible patients may differ materially
from Questcor’s estimates;
— Questcor’s expenses and other cash needs for upcoming periods;
— The inventories carried by Questcor’s distributors, specialty pharmacies
and hospitals;
— Volatility in Questcor’s monthly and quarterly Acthar shipments and
end-user demand;
— Questcor’s ability to obtain finished goods from its sole source
contract manufacturers on a timely basis if at all;
— Questcor’s ability to attract and retain key management personnel;
— Research and development risks, including risks associated with
Questcor’s sNDA for IS and its preliminary work in the area of nephrotic
syndrome;
— Uncertainties regarding Questcor’s intellectual property;
— The uncertainty of receiving required regulatory approvals in a timely
way, or at all; and,
— Questcor’s ability to identify product acquisition candidates and
consummate transactions on terms acceptable to the Company.
— Other risks discussed in Questcor’s annual report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2008 and other documents filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission.

The risk factors and other information contained in these documents should be considered in evaluating Questcor’s prospects and future financial performance.

Questcor undertakes no obligation to publicly release the result of any revisions to these forward-looking statements, which may be made to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

For more information, please visit www.questcor.com or www.acthar.com.

Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Income
(In thousands, except per share amounts)

Three Months Ended Years Ended
December 31, December 31,
————– ————–
2009 2008 2009 2008
—- —- —- —-
Net sales $25,905 $27,018 $88,320 $95,248
Cost of sales (exclusive of
amortization of purchased
technology) 1,898 1,858 7,017 7,304
—– —– —– —–
Gross profit 24,007 25,160 81,303 87,944
Gross margin 93% 93% 92% 92%
Operating expenses:
Selling, general and
administrative 7,841 5,075 29,950 19,247
Research and development 2,662 2,511 9,653 10,614
Depreciation and amortization 121 124 480 503
— — — —
Total operating expenses 10,624 7,710 40,083 30,364
—— —– —— ——
Income from operations 13,383 17,450 41,220 57,580
Other income:
Interest and other income, net 101 247 686 1,075
Gain on sale of product rights – 75 225 75
— — — —
Total other income 101 322 911 1,150
— — — —–
Income before income taxes 13,484 17,772 42,131 58,730
Income tax expense 5,063 1,530 15,502 18,198
—– —– —— ——
Net income 8,421 16,242 26,629 40,532
Deemed dividend on Series A
preferred stock – – – 5,267
— — — —–
Net income applicable to common
shareholders $8,421 $16,242 $26,629 $35,265
====== ======= ======= =======
Net income per share applicable
to common shareholders:
Basic $0.13 $0.25 $0.41 $0.52
===== ===== ===== =====
Diluted $0.13 $0.24 $0.40 $0.49
===== ===== ===== =====
Shares used in computing net
income per share applicable to
common shareholders:
Basic 63,086 65,135 64,196 67,761
====== ====== ====== ======
Diluted 64,783 68,345 66,257 71,350
====== ====== ====== ======

Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Consolidated Balance Sheets
(In thousands, except share amounts)

December 31,
2009 2008
—- —-
ASSETS
Current assets:
Cash and cash equivalents $45,829 $13,282
Short-term investments 29,878 42,169
—— ——
Total cash, cash equivalents and
short-term investments 75,707 55,451
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for
doubtful accounts of $77 and $62 at
December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively 14,833 10,418
Inventories, net 3,378 2,459
Prepaid income taxes – 3,316
Prepaid expenses and other current assets 1,162 1,101
Deferred tax assets 8,180 6,252
—– —–
Total current assets 103,260 78,997
Property and equipment, net 407 450
Purchased technology, net 3,372 3,669
Goodwill 299 299
Deposits and other assets 710 710
Deferred tax assets 3,392 5,021
—– —–
Total assets $111,440 $89,146
======== =======
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities:
Accounts payable $12,921 $4,302
Accrued compensation 2,140 1,896
Sales-related reserves 14,922 11,825
Income taxes payable 477 –
Other accrued liabilities 1,751 1,702
—– —–
Total current liabilities 32,211 19,725
Lease termination and deferred rent
liabilities and other non-current
liabilities 1,226 1,529
—– —–
Total liabilities 33,437 21,254
—— ——
Shareholders’ equity:
Preferred stock, no par value, 7,500,000
shares authorized; none outstanding – –
Common stock, no par value, 105,000,000
shares authorized; 61,726,609 and
65,970,653 shares issued and outstanding
at December 31, 2009 and 2008,
respectively 67,793 84,028
Retained earnings (accumulated deficit) 10,224 (16,405)
Accumulated other comprehensive income
(loss) (14) 269
— —
Total shareholders’ equity 78,003 67,892
—— ——
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity $111,440 $89,146
======== =======

Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(In thousands)

Years Ended
December 31,
2009 2008
—- —-
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income $26,629 $40,532
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash
provided by operating activities:
Share-based compensation expense 3,066 4,119
Deferred income taxes (290) 4,649
Amortization of investments 181 (456)
Depreciation and amortization 480 503
Gain on sale of product rights (225) (75)
Income tax benefit realized from share-based
compensation plans 783 4,932
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation
plans (743) (4,841)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable (4,415) 13,221
Inventories (919) (94)
Prepaid income taxes 3,316 (3,316)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets (61) (323)
Accounts payable 8,619 2,525
Accrued compensation 244 (49)
Sales-related reserves 3,097 3,649
Income taxes payable 477 (1,330)
Other accrued liabilities 49 210
Other non-current liabilities (303) (347)
—- —-
Net cash flows provided by operating activities 39,985 63,509
—— ——
INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Purchase of property and equipment (140) (133)
Purchase of short-term investments (61,557) (69,613)
Proceeds from the sale and maturities of short-
term investments 73,375 42,388
Net proceeds from sale of product rights 225 75
Changes in deposits and other assets – 34
— —
Net cash flows provided by (used in) investing
activities 11,903 (27,249)
—— ——-
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Issuance of common stock, net 1,002 2,161
Repurchase of common stock (21,086) (35,571)
Repurchase of Series A preferred stock – (10,348)
Excess tax benefit from share-based compensation
plans 743 4,841
— —–
Net cash flows used in financing activities (19,341) (38,917)
——- ——-
Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 32,547 (2,657)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 13,282 15,939
—— ——
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year $45,829 $13,282
======= =======

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Questcor (QCOR) Reports Solid Fourth Quarter Results

FDA Approves Exalgo(TM) Extended-Release Tablets

Mar. 2, 2010 (Business Wire) — CombinatoRx, Incorporated (NASDAQ: CRXX) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the New Drug Application (NDA) for Exalgo™ (hydromorphone HCl) extended-release tablets, for the management of moderate to severe pain in opioid tolerant patients requiring continuous, around-the-clock opioid analgesia for an extended period of time.

CombinatoRx will receive a $40 million milestone payment from Covidien based on Exalgo approval and is eligible to receive tiered royalties on Exalgo net sales. Under the terms of the agreements relating to the merger with Neuromed Pharmaceuticals, effective with the FDA approval of Exalgo, approximately 38,609,168 additional shares of CombinatoRx common stock are outstanding, resulting in CombinatoRx having total shares of common stock outstanding following FDA approval of Exalgo of approximately 88,610,640.

“Our considerable product development expertise played a key role in facilitating this successful NDA submission, with the goal of providing much needed relief to those who suffer from chronic pain,” commented Mark H.N. Corrigan, MD, President and CEO of CombinatoRx. “We will continue to apply our strong development capabilities to the many promising drug candidates in our pipeline going forward.”

The U.S. rights to Exalgo tablets were acquired from Neuromed by Mallinckrodt Inc., a Covidien company, in June, 2009. Neuromed acquired the U.S. marketing rights to Exalgo tablets from ALZA Corporation in April 2007 and was responsible for clinical development and regulatory filings. Covidien is responsible for all commercialization activities for Exalgo in the U.S., including marketing, sales and all post-approval FDA regulatory filings, and will now own the intellectual property for the product. ALZA is responsible for manufacturing, packaging and supply of the product. CombinatoRx and Neuromed merged on December 21, 2009.

About CombinatoRx

CombinatoRx, Incorporated (CRXX) develops novel drug candidates with a focus on the treatment of pain and inflammation. The company applies its combination drug discovery capabilities and its selective ion-channel modulation platform to generate innovative therapeutics. To learn more about CombinatoRx, please visit www.combinatorx.com.

Forward-Looking Statement:

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 concerning CombinatoRx, the product Exalgo™, its potential and any royalties CombinatoRx may receive from Mallinckrodt based on net sales of Exalgo, the CombinatoRx drug discovery technologies, and the business plans of CombinatoRx. These forward-looking statements about future expectations, plans, objectives and prospects of CombinatoRx may be identified by words like “believe,” “expect,” “may,” “will,” “should,” “seek,” or “could” and similar expressions and involve significant risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including risks related to the ability of Mallinckrodt to successfully market Exalgo™, the unproven nature of the CombinatoRx drug discovery technologies, the Company’s ability to obtain additional financing or funding for its research and development and those other risks that can be found in the “Risk Factors” section beginning on page 31 of CombinatoRx’s Form S-4 Registration Statement filed in connection with its merger with Neuromed (File No. 333-161146), on file with the Securities and Exchange Commission and the other reports that CombinatoRx periodically files with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Actual results may differ materially from those CombinatoRx contemplated by these forward-looking statements. These forward looking statements reflect management’s current views and CombinatoRx does not undertake to update any of these forward-looking statements to reflect a change in its views or events or circumstances that occur after the date of this release except as required by law.

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on FDA Approves Exalgo(TM) Extended-Release Tablets

NuMobile, Inc. (NUBL) Smartphone and Mobile Computing Solutions to Be Reviewed in a Milestone Strategy Presentation Thursday

CARY, NC — (Marketwire) — 03/01/10 — NuMobile, Inc. (OTCBB: NUBL) is scheduled to be featured in a milestone strategy Webcast this Thursday, March 4th. The Webcast is expected to review the Company’s smartphone and mobile computing solutions and price per share performance potential from a milestone investment perspective. The Webcast agenda also includes a discussion of the NewMarket Technology, Inc. (PINKSHEETS: NWMT) Greenfield Partnership Program and a recent analyst report ‘buy’ rating of NewMarket Technology. NuMobile is building a portfolio of software solutions for the global mobile computing and smartphone market and was the first company to join the Greenfield Program last year. A link to the Webcast will be published upon release Thursday.

Milestone Investment Strategy

The Milestone Investment Strategy is an investment approach developed by Philip Verges, the founder and Chairman of NewMarket Technology to help enhance the return on investment opportunity for self-directed retail investors when investing in early-stage businesses.

Greenfield Partnership Program

NewMarket started the Greenfield Partnership Program to accelerate the introduction of new technologies into emerging markets around the world where technology buying is on the rise, while improving return on investment (ROI) potential. Greenfield Program participant companies have been chosen to participate in the partnership program based on their technology and service offerings in conjunction with the emerging geographic markets in which they operate.

Last week, a Greenfield Partner update Webcast was released. The Webcast titled ‘Greenfield Partnership Program Update Webcast’ is available for review at http://www.newmarkettechnology.com/wcgf_20100223.htm.

NewMarket Technology, Inc. ‘Buy’ Recommendation and $1.47 Target PPS

Last week, an analyst report on NewMarket Technology was published with a ‘buy’ rating and a $1.47 target price per share. The independent analyst is a Certified Financial Analyst (CFA) in accordance with the CFA Institute Code of Ethics and Standards for Professional Conduct. The analyst has previously conducted research for a number of Western European and North American financial institutions, including Janney Montgomery Scott.

To learn more about NuMobile and to sign up for company email alerts, please visit the corporate website at www.numobileinc.com.

About NuMobile, Inc. (www.numobileinc.com)

NuMobile is building a portfolio of security and software solutions for the global mobile computing and smartphone market. Through a roll-up strategy, NuMobile plans to acquire and develop mobile computing solutions for a variety of applications, including mobile banking, for the global marketplace. The demand for mobile security and software applications is being driven in large part by the growing number of mobile phone sales into emerging economies that currently do not have substantial access to the Internet via desktop computing. Already in North America, the Company has also forged a partnership in the Chinese market and is developing a plan for the emerging economies of Latin America and East Africa. NuMobile is a SEC fully-reporting public company listed on the Over-the-Counter Bulletin Board.

“SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT” UNDER THE PRIVATE SECURITIES LITIGATION REFORM ACT OF 1995
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. The statements in this release are forward-looking statements that are made pursuant to safe harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Actual results, events and performance could vary materially from those contemplated by these forward-looking statements. These statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause NuMobile’s actual results in future periods to differ materially from results expressed or implied by forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things, product demand and market competition. You should independently investigate and fully understand all risks before making investment decisions.

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Monday, March 1st, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on NuMobile, Inc. (NUBL) Smartphone and Mobile Computing Solutions to Be Reviewed in a Milestone Strategy Presentation Thursday

Uroplasty, Inc. (UPI) – SUmiT Trial Results Clearly Demonstrate Therapeutic Effect of Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation

Mar. 1, 2010 (PR Newswire) —

MINNEAPOLIS, March 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Uroplasty, Inc. (NYSE Amex: UPI), a medical device company that develops, manufactures and markets innovative proprietary products to treat voiding dysfunctions, today highlighted results of the SUmiT Trial of its Urgent® PC Neuromodulation System that will be published in the April 2010 print edition of THE JOURNAL OF UROLOGY® and is now available on line. The Urgent PC system is a proprietary, minimally invasive, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) device designed for office-based treatment of urinary urgency, urinary frequency and urge incontinence, symptoms often associated with overactive bladder (OAB).

The pivotal SUmiT Trial was a 220-patient, multicenter, randomized, controlled, double-blind study. Patients and investigators reported statistically significant OAB symptom improvement compared to a validated sham procedure.

Highlights from the study include:

    --  58.3% of PTNS patients considered their overall urinary symptoms
        moderately or markedly improved compared to only 21.9% of sham patients.
    --  Statistically significant changes for PTNS patients included reduction
        in voiding frequency, urinary urge incontinence episodes, nighttime
        voids, urgency episodes and voids with moderate to severe volume, in
        addition to improvement in voiding volume and quality of life measures.
    --  Neither group reported any serious adverse events.

“This important study is the first publication that demonstrates the effectiveness of PTNS compared to a validated sham procedure,” said Dr. Kenneth Peters, lead investigator, and Chairman of the Department of Urology at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak, Michigan. “PTNS is a viable OAB treatment and its efficacy is irrefutably demonstrated. It is rare that a medical device is put through such rigorous testing, first comparing it to standard drug therapy as recently done in the OrBIT study and now demonstrating superiority to a sham procedure.”

Publication of the SUmiT Trial follows the publication in The JOURNAL OF UROLOGY of both the 12-week OrBIT (Overactive Bladder Innovative Therapy) multi-center trial in September 2009 and the 12-month OrBIT long term results in January 2010. The 12-week results demonstrated that patients treated with PTNS had fewer significant side effects as well as clinical improvements comparable to patients treated with a leading oral, extended-release OAB drug. The 12-month results demonstrated long term durability of the initial response to PTNS.

“We believe these results erase any doubt that PTNS provides real and measurable clinical results,” said Dave Kaysen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Uroplasty, Inc. “Using a validated sham procedure provided a control usually seen in only the most rigorous pharmaceutical trials. We understand this type of study is rare in the medical device industry. We will use these results, along with previous peer-reviewed publications, to educate medical directors about PTNS effectiveness to establish reimbursement. The SUmiT Trial data is also a key component in our application to the American Medical Association considered at their February meeting for a unique CPT code for PTNS,” added Mr. Kaysen.

For more information about the Urgent® PC Neuromodulation System, please call 866-277-0466 or visit www.uroplasty.com.

About the Urgent PC Neuromodulation System

The Urgent PC Neuromodulation System is a proprietary, minimally invasive nerve stimulation device designed for office-based treatment of urge incontinence, urinary urgency and urinary frequency, symptoms often associated with overactive bladder. Application of neuromodulation therapy targets specific nerve tissue and disrupts the signals that lead to these symptoms. Uroplasty sells the Urgent PC system in the United States, Canada, and countries recognizing the CE mark. Outside of the United States, Urgent PC is also indicated for the treatment of fecal incontinence.

About Uroplasty, Inc.

Uroplasty, Inc., headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, with wholly-owned subsidiaries in The Netherlands and the United Kingdom, is a medical device company that develops, manufactures and markets innovative proprietary products for the treatment of voiding dysfunctions. Our focus is the continued commercialization of our Urgent PC system, which we believe is the only FDA-approved minimally invasive nerve stimulation device designed for office-based treatment of urinary urgency, urinary frequency and urge incontinence, symptoms often associated with overactive bladder.

We also offer Macroplastique® Implants, an injectable urethral bulking agent for the treatment of adult female stress urinary incontinence primarily due to intrinsic sphincter deficiency. For more information on the company and its products, please visit Uroplasty, Inc. at www.uroplasty.com.

Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which reflect our best estimates regarding future events and financial performance. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from our anticipated results. We discuss in detail the factors that may affect the achievement of our forward-looking statements in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC. Further, we cannot assure you that we will timely obtain, or even succeed at all at obtaining, a unique CPT reimbursement code from the American Medical Association for Urgent PC treatments, that even if we obtain a unique CPT reimbursement code third-party payers will provide or continue to provide coverage and reimbursement, or reimburse the providers an amount sufficient to cover their costs and expenses.

For Further Information:

    Uroplasty, Inc.                             EVC Group
    ---------------                             ---------
    David Kaysen, President and CEO, or         Doug Sherk (Investors)
    -----------------------------------         ----------------------
    Medi Jiwani, Vice President, CFO, and
     Treasurer,                                 415.896.6820
    -------------------------------------       ------------
    952.426.6140                                Chris Gale (Media)
    ------------                                ------------------
                                                646.201.5431
                                                ------------
Monday, March 1st, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Uroplasty, Inc. (UPI) – SUmiT Trial Results Clearly Demonstrate Therapeutic Effect of Percutaneous Tibial Nerve Stimulation

Crosstex Energy (XTEX) Reports Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2009 Results

Mar. 1, 2010 (Business Wire) — The Crosstex Energy companies, Crosstex Energy, L.P. (NASDAQ: XTEX) (the Partnership) and Crosstex Energy, Inc. (NASDAQ: XTXI) (the Corporation), today reported earnings for the fourth-quarter and full-year 2009.

Fourth-Quarter 2009 – Crosstex Energy, L.P. Financial Results

The Partnership realized adjusted cash flow of $42.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2009 compared with $61.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2008. Adjusted cash flow is a non-GAAP financial measure and is explained in greater detail under “Non-GAAP Financial Information.” There is a reconciliation of this non-GAAP measure to net income (loss) in the tables at the end of this news release. Fourth-quarter 2008 adjusted cash flow included other income of $20.0 million associated with the assignment of certain contract rights to a nonaffiliated third party. Additionally, assets sold during 2009 contributed $18.3 million to fourth-quarter 2008 realized adjusted cash flow.

The Partnership reported net income of $55.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2009, compared with a net loss of $9.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2008. Fourth-quarter 2009 results included an $86.3 million gain on the sale of the Partnership’s Treating assets, while fourth-quarter 2008 results included a $49.8 million gain on the sale of the Partnership’s interest in the Seminole gas processing plant. Fourth-quarter 2009 results also included a $6.1 million loss from discontinued operations that was mainly related to the write-off of debt issuance costs and senior note make whole expense due to the repayment of notes with the proceeds from asset sales.

“We are extremely pleased with the significant progress we made executing our plan in 2009,” said Barry E. Davis, Crosstex President and Chief Executive Officer. “We have focused on optimizing results from our core assets in north Texas and Louisiana while investing in high-return projects, realigning our cost structure, lowering our business risks and significantly reducing our leverage.

“We recently completed our long-term recapitalization and reducing our leverage will continue to be a priority as we conservatively manage our business. We have established financial guidelines that we will follow when making decisions regarding the restoration of our distribution and dividend. Based on our current assumptions, distributions could be paid from the results of operations of the fourth quarter of 2010,” added Davis.

The Partnership’s gross margin from continuing operations for the fourth quarter of 2009 increased to $80.6 million from $65.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2008. This improvement was related to higher margins from the Partnership’s gathering and transmission business and increases in the natural gas processing business as a result of a more favorable natural gas liquids (NGL) market in the 2009 period. Gross margin from the south Louisiana processing and NGL business increased by $10.7 million, as a result of improvements in the NGL marketing business and increased plant inlet volumes. Gross margin from LIG gathering, transmission and processing increased by $7.9 million due to higher margins and a more favorable NGL market. Gross margin derived from north Texas operations declined $7.1 million compared with the fourth-quarter 2008. The decrease was primarily related to a $3.7 million charge associated with a final arbitration decision in a producer lawsuit and declines in throughput. Fourth-quarter 2009 north Texas volumes declined from the third quarter of 2009 mainly due to the renegotiation of a key producer contact, which reduced gathering volumes and increased transmission volumes.

Fourth-quarter 2009 operating expenses declined $6.4 million, or 20 percent, compared with the fourth quarter of 2008, as a result of the Partnership’s continued focus on expense reduction. Fourth-quarter 2009 general and administrative expense was $16.2 million, including a one-time charge of $1.0 million for severance expenses related to asset sales, a decline of $4.7 million versus the same period a year ago. Depreciation and amortization expense of $29.2 million in the fourth quarter of 2009 rose slightly over the fourth quarter of 2008 amount of $28.3 million. Interest expense declined to $28.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2009 from $41.0 million in the fourth quarter of 2008, primarily the result of the debt paydown associated with asset sales during the year.

The net income per limited partner common unit in the fourth quarter of 2009 was $1.09 basic and $1.07 diluted compared with a net loss per limited partner common unit of $0.18 basic and diluted in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Full-Year 2009 – Crosstex Energy, L.P. Financial Results

The Partnership realized adjusted cash flow of $203.8 million in 2009 compared with $245.1 million in 2008. The reduction in realized adjusted cash flow is mainly due to the sale of assets during 2009. The Partnership reported net income of $104.5 million in 2009, compared with $11.1 million in 2008. Results for 2009 included a $183.7 million gain on the sale of Partnership assets compared with a gain of $49.8 million recorded in 2008. The Partnership’s net income in 2009 also included a loss from discontinued operations related to the asset sales of $1.8 million compared to income of $25.0 million in 2008.

The Partnership’s gross margin from continuing operations for 2009 increased to $311.2 million from $307.8 million in 2008. This improvement was primarily related to higher margins on the Partnership’s gathering and transmission assets, which was partially offset by a decline in the natural gas processing business due to a less favorable NGL market. The LIG system’s gross margin increased by $14.0 million year over year primarily due to improved pricing and higher volumes on the northern portion of the system, which was offset by a $15.1 million decline in processing margins in Louisiana. Gross margin derived from north Texas operations rose $10.2 million compared with 2008. The growth was primarily related to increased gathering and plant inlet volumes versus the previous year, which was partially offset by the previously mentioned arbitration charge.

The Partnership’s 2009 operating expense declined $15.4 million, or 12 percent, to $110.4 million versus $125.8 million in 2008. General and administrative expense for 2009 decreased by $9.0 million from 2008, including the effect of a one-time charge of $1.9 million for severance expenses. Depreciation and amortization expense increased $11.6 million in 2009 compared with 2008 due to the Partnership’s investment in its north Texas and Louisiana assets. Interest expense rose to $95.1 million in 2009 from $75.0 million 2008. The increase in interest expense results primarily from an increase in interest rates pursuant to the February 2009 amendments to the Partnership’s debt agreements.

The net income per limited partner common unit for 2009 was $1.44 basic and $1.40 diluted compared with a net loss per limited partner common unit of $3.19 basic and diluted in 2008.

Crosstex Energy, Inc. Financial Results

The Corporation reported net income of $12.1 million in the fourth quarter of 2009 compared with a loss of $4.5 million in the comparable 2008 period. The Corporation’s loss from continuing operations before income taxes (which includes interest of non-controlling partners in the net income of the Partnership) was $24.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2009, compared with $64.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Net income for the year 2009 was $15.6 million compared with net income of $24.2 million in 2008. The Corporation’s loss from continuing operations before income taxes (which includes interest of non-controlling partners in the net income of the Partnership) was $78.4 million in 2009, compared with $65.6 million in 2008.

The Corporation had $9.9 million of cash on hand and no debt at the end of the fourth-quarter 2009.

In accordance with U.S. accounting standards, the Partnership and Corporation classified the results of their operations for assets sold as discontinued operations for all accounting periods presented. Tables of selected financial data in which amounts have been reclassified as discontinued operations for each period presented are included in this news release.

Crosstex Provides Preliminary 2010 Guidance

The following is the Partnership’s low and high estimates of 2010 adjusted cash flow and distributable cash flow based upon two commodity price scenarios. The Partnership has established financial guidelines that will govern its considerations as to the timing and amount of any future distribution payments, including achieving a ratio of total debt to adjusted cash flow of less than 4.5 to 1 (pro forma for the payment of any distribution), strong coverage from cash flow to continue to allow the Partnership to delever and a positive outlook for its business. Assuming actual results are within the range of guidance, the Partnership expects it could generate sufficient distributable cash flow to pay up to $0.30 per unit in distributions relating to the fourth quarter of 2010 with strong coverage from cash flows generated in such quarter; and the Corporation expects it could pay up to $0.10 per share in dividends, assuming the receipt of a $0.30 per unit distribution from the Partnership. The payment and amount of any distributions and dividends will be subject to approval by the respective Boards of Directors and to economic conditions and other factors existing at the time of determination.

Crosstex Energy, L.P.
Forecast for 2010 Net Income
Reconciliation to Distributable Cash Flow*
(In millions except prices and ratios)
Total Year 2010
Low High
Net income (loss) $ (41 ) $ (10 )
Depreciation and amortization 113 113
Stock-based compensation 6 6
Interest 80 79
Taxes and other 2 2
Adjusted cash flow * $ 160 $ 190
Interest (80 ) (79 )
Taxes and other (3 ) (3 )
Maintenance capital expenditures (15 ) (12 )
Distributable cash flow * $ 62 $ 96
Growth Capital $ 25 $ 30
Key Assumptions for Forecast
Weighted Average Liquids Price ($/gallon) $ 0.80 $ 1.09
Crude ($/Bbl) $ 69.37 $ 94.52
Natural Gas ($/MMBtu) $ 6.00 $ 5.00
Natural Gas Liquids to Gas Ratio 149.9 % 245.0 %
* Adjusted cash flow and Distributable cash flow are non-GAAP financial measures and are explained in greater detail under “Non-GAAP Financial Information.”
Processing Sensitivities: Impact
Percent of Liquids Contracts – $0.10 change in Weighted Average Liquids Price $2.9 million
Processing Margin Contracts – 5% change in Natural Gas Liquids to Gas Ratio (1) $1.8 million
(1) Assumes constant gas price of $5.79/MMBtu.

Crosstex to Hold Earnings Conference Call Today

The Partnership and the Corporation will hold their quarterly conference call to discuss fourth-quarter and full- year 2009 results today, March 1, at 10:00 a.m. Central time (11:00 a.m. Eastern time). The dial-in number for the call is 1-888-679-8034. Callers outside the United States should dial 1-617-213-4847. The passcode for all callers is 88621274. Investors are advised to dial in to the call at least 10 minutes prior to the call time to register. Participants may preregister for the call at https://www.theconferencingservice.com/prereg/key.process?key=PUBWL748L. Preregistrants will be issued a pin number to use when dialing in to the live call, which will provide quick access to the conference by bypassing the operator upon connection. Interested parties also can access a live Web cast of the call on the Investors page of Crosstex’s Web site at www.crosstexenergy.com.

After the conference call, a replay can be accessed until June 8, 2010, by dialing 1-888-286-8010. International callers should dial 1-617-801-6888 for a replay. The passcode for all callers listening to the replay is 91226576. Interested parties also can visit the Investors page of Crosstex’s Web site to listen to a replay of the call.

About the Crosstex Energy Companies

Crosstex Energy, L.P., a midstream natural gas company headquartered in Dallas, operates approximately 3,300 miles of pipeline, nine processing plants and three fractionators. The Partnership currently provides services for 3.2 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas, or approximately six percent of marketed U.S. daily production.

Crosstex Energy, Inc. owns the two percent general partner interest, a 25 percent limited partner interest and the incentive distribution rights of Crosstex Energy, L.P.

Additional information about the Crosstex companies can be found at www.crosstexenergy.com.

Non-GAAP Financial Information

This press release contains non-generally accepted accounting principle financial measures that the Partnership refers to as Distributable Cash Flow and Adjusted Cash Flow. Distributable Cash Flow is defined as earnings before certain noncash charges, less maintenance capital. Adjusted Cash Flow is defined as net income before interest, income taxes, depreciation, amortization and impairments, stock-based compensation, noncash mark-to-market items gain on the sale of assets and other miscellaneous noncash items. The amounts included in the calculation of these measures are computed in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP), with the exception of maintenance capital expenditures. Maintenance capital expenditures are capital expenditures made to replace partially or fully depreciated assets in order to maintain the existing operating capacity of the assets and to extend their useful lives.

The Partnership believes these measures are useful to investors because they may provide users of this financial information with meaningful comparisons between current results and prior-reported results and a meaningful measure of the Partnership’s cash flow after it has satisfied the capital and related requirements of its operations.

Distributable Cash Flow and Adjusted Cash Flow are not measures of financial performance or liquidity under GAAP. They should not be considered in isolation or as an indicator of the Partnership’s performance. Furthermore, they should not be seen as measures of liquidity or a substitute for metrics prepared in accordance with GAAP. A reconciliation of these measures to net income (loss) is included among the preceding and following tables.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the federal securities laws. These statements are based on certain assumptions made by the Partnership and the Corporation based upon management’s experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors the Partnership and the Corporation believe are appropriate in the circumstances. These statements include, but are not limited to, statements with respect to the Partnership’s and the Corporation’s guidance and future outlook, distribution and dividend guidelines and future estimates, financing plans, financial condition, liquidity and results of operations. Such statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Partnership and the Corporation, which may cause the Partnership’s and the Corporation’s actual results to differ materially from those implied or expressed by the forward-looking statements. These risks include the following: (1) the Partnership’s profitability is dependent upon prices and market demand for natural gas and NGL’s; (2) the Partnership’s substantial indebtedness could limit its flexibility and adversely effect its financial health (3) the Partnership may not be able to obtain funding due to the deterioration of the credit and capital markets and current economic conditions; (4) the Partnership and the Corporation do not have diversified assets; (5) drilling levels may decrease due to deterioration in the credit and commodity markets; (6) the Partnership’s credit risk management efforts may fail to adequately protect against customer nonpayment; (7) the Partnership’s use of derivative financial instruments does not eliminate its exposure to fluctuations in commodity prices and interest rates; (8) the Partnership may not be successful in balancing its purchases and sales; (9) the amount of natural gas transported in the Partnership’s gathering and transmission lines may decline as a result of reduced drilling by producers, competition for supplies, reserve declines and reduction in demand from key customers and markets; (10) the level of the Partnership’s processing operations may decline for similar reasons; (11) operational, regulatory and other asset-related risks, including weather conditions such as hurricanes, exist because a significant portion of the Partnership’s assets are located in southern Louisiana; and (12) other factors discussed in the Partnership’s and the Corporation’s Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2009, and other filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The Partnership and the Corporation have no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

(Tables follow)

CROSSTEX ENERGY, L.P.
Selected Financial Data
(All amounts in thousands except per unit numbers)
Three Months Ended Years Ended
December 31 December 31
2009 2008 2009 2008
(Unaudited)
Revenues
Midstream $ 403,895 $ 422,708 $ 1,453,346 $ 3,072,646
Gas and NGL marketing activities 1,882 1,023 5,744 3,365
Total revenues 405,777 423,731 1,459,090 3,076,011
Midstream purchased gas 325,131 358,526 1,147,868 2,768,225
Gross margin 80,646 65,205 311,222 307,786
Operating expenses 25,662 32,059 110,394 125,754
General and administrative 16,238 20,881 59,854 68,864
(Gain) loss on derivatives 3,728 (4,333 ) (2,994 ) (8,619 )
(Gain) loss on sale of property 234 76 (666 ) (947 )
Impairments 1,994 29,373 2,894 29,373
Depreciation and amortization 29,163 28,332 119,088 107,521
Total operating costs and expenses 77,019 106,388 288,570 321,946
Operating income (loss) 3,627 (41,183 ) 22,652 (14,160 )
Interest expense, net (27,952 ) (40,989 ) (95,078 ) (74,971 )
Loss on extinguishment of debt (4,669 )
Other income 664 20,100 1,400 27,770
Total other income (expense) (27,288 ) (20,889 ) (98,347 ) (47,201 )
Loss from continuing operations before non-controlling interest and income taxes
(23,661 ) (62,072 ) (75,695 ) (61,361 )
Income tax provision (547 ) (314 ) (1,790 ) (2,369 )
Loss from continuing operations, net of tax (24,208 ) (62,386 ) (77,485 ) (63,730 )
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (6,174 ) 3,215 (1,796 ) 25,007
Gain on sale of discontinued operations, net of tax 86,324 49,805 183,747 49,805
Net income (loss) 55,942 (9,366 ) 104,466 11,082
Less: Net income from continuing operations attributable to the non-controlling interest
69 73 60 311
Net income (loss) attributable to Crosstex Energy, L.P. $ 55,873 $ (9,439 ) $ 104,406 $ 10,771
General partner interest in net income (loss) $ 681 $ (1,446 ) $ (819 ) $ 26,415
Limited partners’ interest in net income (loss) $ 55,192 $ (7,993 ) $ 105,225 $ (15,644 )
Net income (loss) per limited partners’ unit:
Basic common unit $ 1.09 $ (0.18 ) $ 1.44 $ (3.19 )
Diluted common unit $ 1.07 $ (0.18 ) $ 1.40 $ (3.19 )
Basic and diluted senior subordinated series C unit
$ $ $ $ 9.44
Basic and diluted senior subordinated series D unit
$ $ $ 8.85 $
Weighted average limited partners’ units outstanding:
Basic common units 49,156 44,904 48,161 42,330
Diluted common units 50,189 44,904 49,467 42,330
CROSSTEX ENERGY, L.P.
Reconciliation of Net Income (Loss) to Adjusted Cash Flow and Distributable Cash Flow
(All amounts in thousands except ratios, distributions per unit and footnotes)
Three Months Ended Years Ended
December 31 December 31
2009 2008 2009 2008
(Unaudited) (Unaudited)
Net income (loss) attributable to Crosstex Energy, L.P. $ 55,873 $ (9,439 ) $ 104,406 $ 10,771
Depreciation, amortization and impairments (1) 31,085 64,616 132,342 163,050
Stock-based compensation 2,465 2,992 8,742 11,243
Interest expense, net (2) 33,343 48,451 129,929 104,935
Loss on extinguishment of debt 4,669
Gain on sale of property (86,090 ) (49,729 ) (184,413 ) (50,752 )
Taxes and other 5,620 4,383 8,091 5,879
Adjusted cash flow 42,296 61,274 203,766 245,126
Interest (2)(3)(4) (26,571 ) (24,136 ) (121,265 ) (82,830 )
Cash taxes and other (748 ) 37,697 (3,395 ) 36,352
Maintenance capital expenditures (3,712 ) (5,494 ) (10,939 ) (18,310 )
Distributable cash flow $ 11,265 $ 69,341 $ 68,167 $ 180,338
Actual distribution $ $ 11,456 $ $ 122,942
Distribution coverage 6.05 1.47
Distributions declared per limited partner unit $ $ 0.25 $ $ 2.00
(1) Excludes minority interest share of depreciation and amortization of $72 thousand and $290 thousand for the three months and year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, and $80 thousand and $286 thousand for the three months and year ended December 31, 2008, respectively. Includes depreciation, amortization and impairments related to discontinued operations of $10.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, and $7.0 million and $26.4 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2008, respectively.
(2) Includes interest expense allocated to discontinued operations of $5.4 million and $34.9 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, and $7.5 million and $30.0 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2008, respectively.
(3) Excludes $2.2 million and $4.3 million of debt issuance cost amortization for the three months and year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, and $2.9 million and $5.2 million of senior secured note make-whole and call premium paid-in-kind interest resulting from repayment of such notes from the proceeds of asset sales, for the three months and year ended December 31, 2009, respectively.
(4) Excludes noncash interest rate swap mark to market of $1.7 million and $(797) thousand for the three months and year ended December 31, 2009, respectively, and $24.3 million and $22.1 million for the three months and year ended December 31, 2008, respectively.
CROSSTEX ENERGY, L.P.
Operating Data
Three Months Ended Years Ended
December 31 December 31
2009 2008 2009 2008
Pipeline Throughput (MMBtu/d)
LIG Pipeline & Marketing 881,000 922,000 900,000 960,000
North Texas – Gathering 764,000 775,000 793,000 670,000
North Texas – Transmission 331,000 308,000 318,000 330,000
Other Midstream 26,000 32,000 29,000 42,000
Total Gathering and Transmission Volume 2,002,000 2,037,000 2,040,000 2,002,000
Natural Gas Processed (MMBtu/d)
South Louisiana 892,000 530,000 747,000 1,098,000
LIG System 291,000 268,000 269,000 310,000
North Texas 203,000 226,000 219,000 200,000
Total Gas Volumes Processed 1,386,000 1,024,000 1,235,000 1,608,000
Realized weighted average
Natural Gas Liquids price ($/gallon) 1.03 0.72 0.81 1.36
Actual weighted average
Natural Gas Liquids to Gas ratio 280 % 129 % 225 % 176 %
Commercial Services Volume (MMBtu/d) 39,000 90,000 75,000 85,000
North Texas Gathering (1)
Wells connected 12 24 84 158
(1) North Texas Gathering wells connected are as of the last day of the period and include Centralized Delivery Point (“CDP”) connections where Crosstex connects multiple wells at a single meter station.
CROSSTEX ENERGY, INC.
Selected Financial Data
(All amounts in thousands except per share numbers)
Three Months Ended Years Ended
December 31 December 31
2009 2008 2009 2008
(Unaudited)
Revenues
Midstream $ 403,895 $ 422,708 $ 1,453,346 $ 3,072,646
Gas and NGL marketing activities 1,882 1,023 5,744 3,365
Total revenues 405,777 423,731 1,459,090 3,076,011
Midstream purchased gas 325,131 358,526 1,147,868 2,768,225
Gross margin 80,646 65,205 311,222 307,786
Operating expenses 25,661 32,060 110,394 125,762
General and administrative 16,852 22,322 62,491 72,377
(Gain) loss on derivatives 3,728 (4,333 ) (2,994 ) (8,619 )
(Gain) loss on sale of property 234 76 (666 ) (947 )
Impairments 1,994 30,177 2,894 30,177
Depreciation and amortization 29,182 28,350 119,162 107,652
Total operating costs and expenses 77,651 108,652 291,281 326,402
Operating income (loss) 2,995 (43,447 ) 19,941 (18,616 )
Interest expense, net (27,953 ) (40,956 ) (95,078 ) (74,861 )
Loss on extinguishment of debt (4,669 )
Other income 664 20,143 1,449 27,898
Total other income (expense) (27,289 ) (20,813 ) (98,298 ) (46,963 )
Loss from continuing operations before income taxes and gain on issuance of Partnership units
(24,294 ) (64,260 ) (78,357 ) (65,579 )
Income tax benefit 3,614 9,118 6,020 1,375
Gain on issuance of Partnership units 14,748
Loss from continuing operations, net of tax (20,680 ) (55,142 ) (72,337 ) (49,456 )
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax (5,331 ) 2,925 (1,519 ) 21,466
Gain from sale of discontinued operations, net of tax 75,134 42,753 159,961 42,753
Net Income (loss) 49,123 (9,464 ) 86,105 14,763
Less: Interest of non-controlling partners in the Partnership’s net income (loss):
Interest of non-controlling partners in the Partnership’s
continuing operations (15,217 ) (37,914 ) (48,069 ) (55,704 )
Interest of non-controlling partners in the Partnership’s
discontinued operations (3,988 ) 2,135 (1,137 ) 15,454
Interest of non-controlling partners in Partnership’s gain
sale of discontinued operations 56,224 30,780 119,669 30,780
Total interest of non-controlling partners in the Partnership 37,019 (4,999 ) 70,463 (9,470 )
Net income (loss) attributable to Crosstex Energy, Inc. $ 12,104 $ (4,465 ) $ 15,642 $ 24,233
Net income (loss) per common share:
Basic $ 0.26 $ (0.09 ) $ 0.33 $ 0.52
Diluted $ 0.25 $ (0.09 ) $ 0.33 $ 0.51
Weighted average shares outstanding:
Basic 46,517 46,335 46,476 46,298
Diluted 46,746 46,483 46,535 46,589
Dividends declared per common share $ $ 0.09 $ $ 1.15
Monday, March 1st, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Crosstex Energy (XTEX) Reports Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2009 Results

Astellas Pharma Inc. (OSIP) Offers to Acquire OSI Pharmaceuticals for $52.00 Per Share in Cash

TOKYO, March 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Astellas Pharma Inc. (TSE: 4503), a global pharmaceutical company, will commence a tender offer to acquire all outstanding shares of common stock of OSI Pharmaceuticals (Nasdaq: OSIP) for $52.00 per share in cash, or an aggregate of approximately $3.5 billion on a fully diluted basis.

The all-cash offer, set forth in Astellas’ letter to OSI delivered this morning, represents a significant premium of over 40% on the closing price of OSI’s common stock of $37.02 per share on February 26, 2010, a 53% premium to its three-month average of $34.01 per share, and a 31% premium to its 52-week high of $39.66 per share. Astellas’ offer is not subject to any financing conditions.

The acquisition of OSI – a biotechnology company primarily focused on the discovery, development and commercialization of molecular targeted therapies addressing medical needs in oncology, diabetes and obesity – would support Astellas’ growth strategy of becoming a Global Category Leader in oncology. OSI manufactures and sells Tarceva (erlotinib), a leading cancer medication and has several prospective new oncology medications in its R&D pipeline. The transaction would provide Astellas with a top-tier oncology business in the U.S. and an expanded product portfolio and pipeline. OSI would also augment Astellas’ strong existing franchises in urology and immunology.

Astellas’ scale and financial strength will help OSI realize the value of its current product pipeline, as well as continue the necessary funding of its discovery engine. Adding Astellas’ strong business operations and experience in the development and sales of new products will enable the combined company to accelerate their development and ensure their successful commercialization. Astellas has great respect for the OSI organization and expects to integrate the strengths of OSI’s business and employees into its operations as it has in the past with similar strategic acquisitions.

Masafumi Nogimori, President and Chief Executive Officer of Astellas, commenting on the offer, said, “This offer follows our attempts over the past 13 months to engage OSI in meaningful discussions. We firmly believe in the compelling strategic rationale behind the combination and the opportunity it provides to the OSI stockholders to realize full and fair value, in cash, immediately. As recently as February 12, 2010, Astellas presented this proposal to acquire OSI, which reflected a 50% premium on that date. However, we received a response stating that our offer ‘very significantly undervalues’ OSI. That response was the latest indication to us that OSI is not interested in engaging in substantive discussions. We are therefore taking our offer directly to OSI’s stockholders. Our proposal and its significant premium recognize both the value created by OSI to date and its future prospects. Of course, we are open to, and we hope that OSI’s Board and management will commence, discussions with us to effect a negotiated transaction.”

Astellas has made numerous attempts to engage in substantive discussions to acquire OSI. Astellas first raised its interest in acquiring OSI during a meeting with OSI’s CEO in January 2009 and made its first written proposal in February 2009. Despite subsequent letters reiterating Astellas’ interest in March and June 2009 and several face-to-face meetings, including a meeting between the two CEOs on February 12, 2010, OSI has refused to engage in a meaningful discussion. As a result, Astellas has decided to commence a tender offer and go directly to the OSI stockholders. Astellas will consider all means necessary to secure a completed transaction. Among other things, Astellas intends to nominate directors at OSI’s upcoming annual meeting to give stockholders a voice in the outcome.

Astellas will commence a tender offer on March 2, 2010, to purchase all outstanding common stock of OSI for $52.00 per share in cash. Following successful completion of the tender offer, a merger will be completed at the same price. The complete terms and conditions of the offer will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and disseminated to OSI stockholders. Astellas has cash and cash equivalents on hand to complete the transaction. The offer is not subject to any financing or due diligence conditions, and will be subject only to customary closing conditions, including the tender of a majority of OSI’s shares of common stock on a fully diluted basis, and OSI’s Board taking all necessary actions to make its stockholder rights plan and Section 203 of the Delaware Corporation Law inapplicable to Astellas’ offer. There are no anticipated regulatory hurdles to completion.

Citigroup is acting as exclusive financial advisor to Astellas and Morrison & Foerster LLP is acting as legal counsel.

Following is a copy of the letter Astellas sent earlier today to Colin Goddard, OSI’s CEO:

    March 1, 2010
    Colin Goddard, Chief Executive Officer, OSI Pharmaceuticals
    Cc: Robert A. Ingram, Chairman, OSI Pharmaceuticals

Dear Dr. Goddard:

As you know from our meetings, we have a great deal of respect for you and OSI, its employees and what the company has achieved. We believe there are significant benefits from OSI’s acquisition by Astellas and believe that a combined entity would allow us to achieve the goal of discovering, developing and delivering novel medications for patients with unmet needs in the oncology space far better than each of our companies could do independently.

When we met on February 12, 2010, I presented our proposal to acquire all of OSI shares for $52 per share, a 50% premium to the prior day’s closing price. This followed Astellas’ numerous attempts to engage in meaningful conversations with OSI over the last 13 months regarding the potential for bringing our two businesses together.

I was hopeful that our February 12th meeting would have finally resulted in a constructive attempt by you and OSI’s Board to discuss a transaction and bring value to your stockholders. Instead, your written response dated February 22nd stated that our proposal “very significantly undervalues” OSI. It also contained a confidentiality agreement with a two-year “standstill” provision which we believe would not be in your stockholders’ best interests, as it would have restricted us from making our offer directly to them.

As we have stated to you consistently in our many communications to you over the last 13 months, we believe the acquisition of OSI by Astellas makes for a compelling business proposition and provides a unique opportunity for our respective stockholders, employees and customers. However, because your response indicates that you have no intention to engage in substantive discussions, our Board has authorized me to take our offer directly to OSI’s stockholders.

We remain enthusiastic about the potential of this transaction to realize the value of OSI’s current commercialized products and to ensure the successful development and commercialization of additional products from its pipeline. We respect your organization very much, and as such we would expect to integrate the strengths of your business and of OSI’s employees into our company as we have in the past with similar strategic acquisitions.

Our proposal would be subject to standard acquisition conditions, including the removal of your stockholder rights plan, and is not subject to any financing or any due diligence conditions. We do not foresee any regulatory or other impediment to closing.

We continue to be excited about the possibility of bringing our two organizations together and we hope that you and your Board will reconsider your position and work with us to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome. Astellas has engaged Citigroup as financial advisor and Morrison & Foerster LLP as legal counsel to assist us in completing this transaction. We and our advisors stand ready to meet with you and your advisors to answer any questions you may have about our offer.

    Very truly yours,

    Masafumi Nogimori
    Chief Executive Officer

    cc:  Toichi Takenaka, Chairman

Additional Information

All details related to this proposal can be found on www.oncologyleader.com

    Media Contacts
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    Thomas Gardiner, Managing Director
    +1 212 440 9872

About Astellas

Astellas Pharma Inc., located in Tokyo, Japan, is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceuticals. Astellas has approximately 14,200 employees worldwide. The organization is committed to becoming a global category leader in urology, immunology & infectious diseases, neuroscience, DM complications & metabolic diseases and oncology. For more information on Astellas Pharma Inc., please visit our website at http://www.astellas.com/en.

Important Additional Information

This communication is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer to purchase or a solicitation of an offer to sell OSI Pharmaceuticals (“OSI”) common stock. No tender offer for the shares of OSI common stock has commenced at this time. The tender offer (the “Tender Offer”) will be made pursuant to a tender offer statement on Schedule TO (including the Offer to Purchase, Letter of Transmittal and other related tender offer materials) to be filed by Astellas Pharma Inc., Astellas U.S. Holding, Inc. and Ruby Acquisition, Inc. (collectively, “Astellas”) with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). These materials, as they may be amended from time to time, contain important information, including the terms and conditions of the Tender Offer, that should be read carefully before any decision is made with respect to the Tender Offer. Investors and security holders may obtain a free copy of these materials, when available, and other documents filed by Astellas with the SEC at the website maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. The Offer to Purchase, Letter of Transmittal and other related Tender Offer materials may also be obtained, when available, for free by contacting the information agent for the Tender Offer, Georgeson Inc., at (212) 440-9800 for banks and brokers and at (800) 213-0473 for persons other than banks and brokers.

In connection with Astellas’ proposal to nominate directors at OSI’s annual meeting of stockholders, Astellas may file a proxy statement with the SEC. Investors and security holders of OSI are urged to read the proxy statement and other documents related to the solicitation of proxies filed with the SEC carefully in their entirety when they become available because they will contain important information. Stockholders of OSI and other interested parties may obtain, free of charge, copies of the proxy statement (when available), and any other documents filed by Astellas with the SEC in connection with the proxy solicitation, at the SEC’s website as described above. The proxy statement (when available) and these other documents may also be obtained free of charge by contacting Georgeson Inc. at the numbers listed above.

Astellas and certain of their directors and executive officers may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of proxies in connection with the proposed transaction. Information regarding these directors and executive officers will be available in the Schedule 14A to be filed today and other documents filed by Astellas with the SEC as described above. Further information will be available in any proxy statement or other relevant materials filed with the SEC in connection with the solicitation of proxies when they become available.

No assurance can be given that the proposed transaction described herein will be consummated by Astellas, or completed on the terms proposed or any particular schedule, that the proposed transaction will not incur delays in obtaining the regulatory, board or stockholder approvals required for such transaction, or that Astellas will realize the anticipated benefits of the proposed transaction.

Statement on Cautionary Factors

Any statements made in this communication that are not statements of historical fact, including statements about Astellas’ beliefs and expectations and statements about Astellas’ proposed acquisition of OSI, are forward-looking statements and should be evaluated as such. Forward-looking statements include statements that may relate to Astellas’ plans, objectives, strategies, goals, future events, future revenues or performance, and other information that is not historical information. Factors that may materially affect such forward-looking statements include: Astellas’ ability to successfully complete the tender offer for OSI’s shares or realize the anticipated benefits of the transaction; delays in obtaining any approvals required for the transaction, or an inability to obtain them on the terms proposed or on the anticipated schedule; and the failure of any of the conditions to Astellas’ tender offer to be satisfied.

Any information regarding OSI contained herein has been taken from, or is based upon, publicly available information. Although Astellas does not have any information that would indicate that any information contained herein is inaccurate or incomplete, Astellas has not had the opportunity to verify any such information and does not undertake any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of such information.

Astellas does not undertake, and specifically disclaims, any obligation or responsibility to update or amend any of the information above except as otherwise required by law.

Monday, March 1st, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Astellas Pharma Inc. (OSIP) Offers to Acquire OSI Pharmaceuticals for $52.00 Per Share in Cash

Acme United Corp. (ACU) Reports Fourth Quarter Sales Increase of 7% and Earnings Increase of 22%

Feb. 26, 2010 (Business Wire) — Acme United Corporation (NYSE AMEX:ACU) today announced that net sales for the quarter ended December 31, 2009, were $13.4 million compared to $12.6 million in the same period in 2008, an increase of 7% (4% in local currency). Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2009 were $59.1 million, compared to $68.7 million in the same period in 2008, a decrease of 14% (17% in local currency).

Net income for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2009 was $731,000, or $.22 per diluted share, compared to $634,000, or $.18 per diluted share, for the comparable period last year, an increase of 22%. Net income for the year ended December 31, 2009 was $2,842,000, or $.85 per diluted share, compared to $4,467,000, or $1.24 per diluted share, in the comparable period last year.

Net sales for the year ended December 31, 2009, in the U.S. segment decreased 16% compared to 2008. Net sales in Canada for the year ended December 31, 2009 decreased 13% in U.S. dollars compared to 2008, and 6% in local currency. The decline in net sales for the twelve months ended December 31, 2009 in the U.S. and Canadian segment was principally due to the economic downturn. European net sales for the year ended December 31, 2009 increased 3% in U.S. dollars and 8% in local currency compared to 2008.

Gross margins were 39% for the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Gross margins were 37% for 2009 compared to 40% in 2008. The gross margin decline for the year was primarily due to fixed costs spread over lower sales, the weaker Canadian dollar which raised the cost of products in our Canadian segment, and product mix.

Operating income in the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2009 was $293,000, compared to $795,000 in the fourth quarter of 2008. Operating income in the fourth quarter of 2009 included a $210,000 write-off of medical products donated for relief efforts. The fourth quarter of 2008 included a benefit of $400,000 from the reversal of incentive compensation liabilities. Excluding these items, operating income was $503,000 in the fourth quarter of 2009 compared to $395,000 in 2008.

Pretax income in the fourth quarter ended December 31, 2009 was $266,000 compared to $875,000 in the fourth quarter of 2008. Included in pretax income in the fourth quarter of 2008 was $265,000 in other income related to the Company’s gain on the sale of its former facility in Bridgeport, CT, which had ceased manufacturing in 1996. Excluding the $210,000 charge associated with the donation of medical products and the exceptional items in the fourth quarter of 2008, pretax income was $476,000 in the fourth quarter of 2009 compared to $210,000 in same period in 2008.

In the fourth quarter of 2009, the Company recorded an income tax benefit of approximately $464,000, which was primarily due to $500,000 of tax savings related to the Company’s donation of medical products to AmeriCares and the donation of land to the City of Bridgeport, CT. This donation, which occurred in December 2009, consisted of waterfront property adjacent to the property the Company sold in December 2008.

The full year effective tax rate in 2009 was 18%, compared to 33% in 2008. The decrease in the effective tax rate in 2009 was primarily the result of the $500,000 of tax savings resulting from the donations. Without these credits, the effective tax rate would have been approximately 32% for 2009.

Walter C. Johnsen, Chairman and CEO said, “We completed 2009 with momentum. Our award-winning iPoint pencil sharpeners are gaining wide distribution, the Speed Pak utility knives are building sales, and the Camillus knife sales are growing. Our new proprietary non-stick coatings are broadening our product applications for cutting in the craft, office, industrial, hardware and other markets.”

Mr. Johnsen added that he was pleased with the Company’s substantial reduction in debt during the year, and its new bank facility obtained in January 2010. He emphasized that Acme United enters 2010 with a stronger balance sheet than a year ago, and is well positioned for growth.

The Company’s bank debt less cash on December 31, 2009 was $2.7 million compared to $6.5 million on December 31, 2008. During fiscal year 2009, the Company repurchased 206,000 shares of its common stock for approximately $1.7 million and paid $700,000 in dividends on its common stock; the expenditures were offset by cash flow from operations of $6.6 million.

ACME UNITED CORPORATION is an innovative supplier of cutting devices, measuring instruments and safety products for school, home, office, industrial and hardware use. Its leading brands include Westcott®, Clauss®, Camillus® and PhysiciansCare ®.

Forward-looking statements in this report, including without limitation, statements related to the Company’s plans, strategies, objectives, expectations, intentions and adequacy of resources, are made pursuant to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Investors are cautioned that such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties including, without limitation, the following: (i) the Company’s plans, strategies, objectives, expectations and intentions are subject to change at any time at the discretion of the Company; (ii) the impact of current uncertainties in global economic conditions and the ongoing financial crisis affecting the domestic and foreign banking system and financial markets, including the impact on the Company’s suppliers and customers (iii) the Company’s plans and results of operations will be affected by the Company’s ability to manage its growth, and (iv) other risks and uncertainties indicated from time to time in the Company’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

ACME UNITED CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
YEAR END REPORT 2009
(Unaudited)
Quarter Ended Quarter Ended
Amounts in $000’s except per share data December 31, 2009 December 31, 2008
Net sales $ 13,422 $ 12,584
Cost of goods sold 8,248 7,701
Gross profit 5,174 4,883
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 4,881 4,088
Income from operations 293 795
Interest expense (32 ) (89 )
Interest income 33
Net interest expense 2 (89 )
Other (expense) income (29 ) 169
Total other (expense) income net (27 ) 80
Pre-tax income 266 875
Income tax (benefit) expense (464 ) 241
Net income $ 731 $ 634
Shares outstanding – Basic 3,208 3,415
Shares outstanding – Diluted 3,305 3,511
Earnings per share basic $ 0.23 $ 0.19
Earnings per share diluted 0.22 0.18
ACME UNITED CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
YEAR END REPORT 2009 (cont.)
(Unaudited)
Year Ended Year Ended
Amounts in $000’s except per share data December 31, 2009 December 31, 2008
Net sales $ 59,149 $ 68,719
Cost of goods sold 37,075 41,062
Gross profit 22,073 27,657
Selling, general, and administrative expenses 19,047 20,778
Income from operations 3,027 6,879
Interest expense (155 ) (396 )
Interest income 129
Net interest expense (26 ) (396 )
Other (expense) income 452 193
Total other income (expense) net 426 (203 )
Pre-tax income 3,453 6,676
Income tax expense 611 2,209
Net income $ 2,842 $ 4,467
Shares outstanding – Basic 3,289 3,486
Shares outstanding – Diluted 3,353 3,612
Earnings per share basic $ 0.86 $ 1.28
Earnings per share diluted 0.85 1.24
ACME UNITED CORPORATION
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
YEAR END REPORT 2009
(Unaudited)
Amounts in $000’s December 31, 2009 December 31, 2008
Assets:
Current assets:
Cash $ 6,519 $ 5,225
Accounts receivable, net 10,703 10,564
Inventories 17,400 21,769
Prepaid and other current assets 1,133 1,088
Total current assets 35,755 38,646
Property and equipment, net 2,088 2,269
Long term receivable 1,892 2,000
Other assets 2,574 2,509
Total assets $ 42,309 $ 45,424
Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:
Current liabilities
Accounts payable $ 3,546 $ 3,669
Other current liabilities 3,257 5,157
Total current liabilities 6,803 8,826
Non-current liabilities
Long term debt 9,154 11,750
Other non current liabilities 1,811 1,960
Total liabilities 17,768 22,536
Total stockholders’ equity 24,541 22,888
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity $ 42,309 $ 45,424
Friday, February 26th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Acme United Corp. (ACU) Reports Fourth Quarter Sales Increase of 7% and Earnings Increase of 22%

DTS (DTSI) Partners with Samsung to Deliver Superior Audio to Digital Televisions Worldwide

Feb. 26, 2010 (Business Wire) — DTS, Inc. (Nasdaq:DTSI) today announced significant news in the Digital TV space by entering into a partnership with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd to integrate DTS audio decoding (or DTS Digital Surround) technology into virtually all Samsung digital televisions worldwide. This global partnership teams the global market leader in televisions with the leading audio technology provider for HD entertainment. Most importantly, it will further enhance the consumer entertainment experience by matching DTS best-in-class audio technology with Samsung’s industry-leading HDTV products.

“DTS is thrilled to partner with an industry leader such as Samsung as we continue our efforts to bring the finest audio experience possible to consumers,” said Brian Towne, Executive Vice President and General Manager, DTS, Inc. “Further, we remain focused on the future as we continue our expansion into new segments of home and portable entertainment.”

The integration of DTS technology in Samsung digital televisions is the latest milestone in the growth of DTS, a company that is quickly becoming a household name in the home entertainment arena. Recognition of DTS’ expansion is evident by the growing popularity of its DTS-HD Master Audio technology in the Blu-ray disc format and its emergence into the PC space with DTS Premium Suite, a new and compelling, high performance technology offering.

About DTS

DTS, Inc. (NASDAQ: DTSI) is a digital technology company dedicated to delivering the ultimate entertainment experience. DTS branded decoders are in virtually every major brand of multi-channel surround sound processors, and there are hundreds of millions of DTS-licensed consumer electronics products available worldwide. A pioneer in multi-channel audio, DTS technology is in home theatre, car audio, PC and game console products, as well as DVD-Video, Blu-ray Disc and surround music software. Founded in 1993, DTS’ corporate headquarters are located in Calabasas, California with its licensing operations headquartered in Limerick, Ireland. DTS also has offices in Northern California, Washington, Canada, China, France, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and the United Kingdom. For further information, please visit www.dts.com. DTS and the DTS Symbol are registered trademarks of DTS, Inc. DTS Neural Surround is a trademark of DTS, Inc. All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 that involve risks, uncertainties, assumptions and other factors which, if they do not materialize or prove correct, could cause DTS’ results to differ materially from historical results or those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are statements that could be deemed forward-looking statements, including statements containing the words “planned,” “expects,” “believes,” “strategy,” “opportunity,” “anticipates” and similar words. These statements may include, among others, plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements regarding proposed new products, services or developments; any statements regarding future economic conditions or financial or operating performance; statements of belief and any statements of assumptions underlying any of the foregoing. The potential risks and uncertainties that could cause actual growth and results to differ materially include, but are not limited to, the transition to the next generation optical drives and consumer adoption of such technology, the rapidly changing and competitive nature of the digital audio, consumer electronics and entertainment markets, the Company’s inclusion in or exclusion from governmental and industry standards, continued customer acceptance of the Company’s technology, products, services and pricing, risks related to ownership and enforcement of intellectual property, the continued release and availability of entertainment content containing DTS audio soundtracks, success of the Company’s research and development efforts, risks related to integrating acquisitions, greater than expected costs, the departure of key employees, the current financial crisis and global economic downturn, a loss of one or more of the Company’s key customers or licensees, changes in domestic and international market and political conditions, and other risks and uncertainties more fully described in DTS’ public filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, available at www.sec.gov. DTS does not intend to update any forward-looking statement contained in this press release to reflect events or circumstances arising after the date hereof.

Friday, February 26th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on DTS (DTSI) Partners with Samsung to Deliver Superior Audio to Digital Televisions Worldwide

Orckit-Corrigent (ORCT) Strengthens its Presence in India

Feb. 25, 2010 (Business Wire) — Orckit Communications Ltd. (NASDAQ:ORCT), the leading Carrier Ethernet + Transport (CE+T) networking vendor, today announced that Mr. VK Aggarwal has joined the company as Managing Director India. Bringing more than 35 years of sales, business development, marketing and R&D expertise in the telecommunication market, Mr. Aggarwal will be leading the Indian headquarter, based in Gurgaon.

“VK Aggarwal joins Orckit-Corrigent from one of the world’s largest telecommunication vendors, Nokia Siemens Networks, where he served as Account Director for public operators and defense. Prior to this, he served as Executive Vice President, Siemens Communications for public & private operators and defense. His decision to join Orckit-Corrigent is evidence to our success and potential as a company,” said Mr. Oren Tepper, Vice President, corporate sales. “We recently announced the selection of our solutions by a Tier-1 service provider in India, and with the newly extended team we are looking forward to taking an active role in building the next generation transport for India’s networking infrastructure.”

The telecommunication market in India continues to present exceptional growth. For example, analyst firm OVUM has predicted 135 million new mobile connections in India in 2010. Cost optimized solutions are mandatory for building networks on a very large scale, and Orckit-Corrigent was able to introduce a Carrier Ethernet platform that is both scalable and cost efficient.

“Orckit-Corrigent has an excellent track record with innovative technologies. I look forward to joining the company’s talented team and fulfilling our potential in this growing market,” said Mr. VK Aggarwal, Managing Director, India at Orckit-Corrigent. “The company has already gained a significant footprint by building the next generation triple play network that is based on GPON technologies, and upcoming phases of the deployment will rely on Carrier Ethernet + Transport solutions.”

Orckit-Corrigent has also brought on additional employees to its headquarters in Gurgaon, India, to better serve the existing customers and develop new business opportunities.

About Orckit Communications Ltd.

Orckit facilitates telecommunication providers’ delivery of high capacity broadband residential, business and mobile services over wireline or wireless networks with its Orckit-Corrigent family of products. With 20 years of field experience with Tier-1 customers located around the world and sound leadership, Orckit has a firm foothold in the ever-developing world of telecommunication.

Orckit-Corrigent’s product lines include Carrier Ethernet + Transport (CE+T) switches – an MPLS based portfolio enabling advanced packet as well as legacy services over packet networks with a wide set of transport features, and Personalized Video Distribution systems – an advanced video distribution portfolio, optimized for IPTV, enabling multiple HD streams per home. Orckit-Corrigent markets its products directly and indirectly through strategic alliances as well as distribution and reseller partners worldwide.

Orckit was founded in 1990 and went public 1996. Orckit is dually listed on NasdaqGM (ORCT) and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange and is headquartered in Tel-Aviv, Israel.

Certain matters discussed in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve a number of risks and uncertainties including, but not limited to, the Company’s history of losses, dependence on a limited number of customers, risks in product development plans and schedules, rapid technological change, changes and delays in product approval and introduction, customer acceptance of new products, the impact of competitive products and pricing, market acceptance, the lengthy sales cycle, exchange rate fluctuations, fluctuation in order size, proprietary rights of the Company and its competitors, need for additional financing, the ability to repay the convertible notes, risk of operations in Israel, government regulation, dependence on third parties to manufacture products, the effect of current global economic conditions, as well as turmoil in the financial and credit markets, and other risk factors detailed in the Company’s United States Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Actual results may materially differ. Orckit assumes no obligation to update the information in this release.

Friday, February 26th, 2010 Uncategorized Comments Off on Orckit-Corrigent (ORCT) Strengthens its Presence in India