Automotive Industry

Ford Motor Credit Reports 2008 Preliminary Results*

January 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Ford Motor Credit
Company reported a net loss of $1.5 billion in 2008, a decrease of $2.3
billion from net income of $775 million a year earlier. On a pre-tax basis,
Ford Motor Credit reported a loss of $2.6 billion in 2008, including the
second quarter 2008 impairment charge of $2.1 billion for North America
operating leases, compared with earnings of $1.2 billion in the previous year.
The decrease in full year pre-tax earnings is more than explained by the
impairment charge, a higher provision for credit losses, and higher
depreciation expense for leased vehicles.

In the fourth quarter of 2008, Ford Motor Credit’s net loss was $228
million, down $414 million from a year earlier. On a pre-tax basis, Ford
Motor Credit reported a loss of $372 million in the fourth quarter, compared
with earnings of $263 million in the previous year. The decrease in fourth
quarter pre-tax earnings primarily reflected a higher provision for credit
losses, higher net losses related to market valuation adjustments to
derivatives, lower volume, and lower financing margin. Lower operating costs
were largely offset by other expenses.

“The drastic and rapid deterioration in the economy, credit markets and
auto sales in 2008 brought unprecedented challenges to Ford Motor Credit. The
historic decline in used-vehicle auction prices across the industry affected
our North American lease portfolio and led to a second quarter impairment,”
Chairman and CEO Mike Bannister said. “Tough external challenges are expected
in 2009. However, we will continue to manage our business through consistent
and sound risk management, lending and servicing practices.”

On December 31, 2008, Ford Motor Credit’s on-balance sheet net receivables
totaled $116 billion, compared with $141 billion at year-end 2007. Managed
receivables were $118 billion on December 31, 2008, down from $147 billion on
December 31, 2007. The lower receivables primarily reflected lower North
America receivables, changes in currency exchange rates, the impact of
divestitures and alternative business arrangements, and the second quarter
2008 impairment charge for North America operating leases.

Ford Motor Credit also is restructuring its U.S. operations to meet
changing business conditions, including lower auto sales and the planned
reduction in Jaguar, Land Rover and Mazda receivables, and to maintain a
competitive cost structure. The restructuring will affect servicing, sales
and central operations and eliminate about 1,200 staff and agency positions,
or about 20 percent. The reductions will occur in 2009 through attrition,
retirements and involuntary separations.

Ford Motor Credit Company LLC is one of the world’s largest automotive
finance companies and has supported the sale of Ford Motor Company products
since 1959. Ford Motor Credit is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of
Ford. It provides automotive financing for Ford, Lincoln, Mercury and Volvo
dealers and customers. More information can be found at
http://www.fordcredit.com and at Ford Motor Credit’s investor center,
http://www.fordcredit.com/investorcenter/.

– - – - -

* The financial results discussed herein are presented on a preliminary
basis; final data will be included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the
year ended December 31, 2008.

                                      ###

                FORD MOTOR CREDIT COMPANY LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                 PRELIMINARY
                       CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME
               For the Periods Ended December 31, 2008 and 2007
                                (in millions)

                                        Fourth Quarter        Full Year
                                      ------------------  ------------------
                                        2008      2007      2008      2007
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
                                          (Unaudited)    (Unaudited)
    Financing revenue
      Operating leases                $  1,519  $  1,680  $  6,519  $  6,343
      Retail                               766       895     3,270     3,475
      Interest supplements and other
       support costs earned from
       affiliated companies              1,092     1,214     4,774     4,592
      Wholesale                            381       525     1,721     2,132
      Other                                 30        41       133       174
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
          Total financing revenue        3,788     4,355    16,417    16,716
    Depreciation on vehicles subject
     to operating leases                (1,542)   (1,667)   (9,019)   (6,188)
    Interest expense                    (1,853)   (2,166)   (7,634)   (8,630)
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
      Net financing margin                 393       522      (236)    1,898
    Other revenue
      Investment and other income
       related to sales of receivables      13        83       199       391
      Insurance premiums earned, net        30        39       140       169
      Other income, net                    112       398       758     1,362
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
          Total financing margin and
           other revenue                   548     1,042       861     3,820
    Expenses
      Operating expenses                   387       478     1,548     1,929
      Provision for credit losses          520       287     1,769       588
      Insurance expenses                    13        14       103        88
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
          Total expenses                   920       779     3,420     2,605
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
    Income/(Loss) before income taxes     (372)      263    (2,559)    1,215
    Provision for/(Benefit from)
     income taxes                         (144)       83    (1,014)      446
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
      Income/(Loss) before minority
       interests                          (228)      180    (1,545)      769
    Minority interests in net income
     of subsidiaries                         -         0         0         0
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
      Income/(Loss) from continuing
       operations                         (228)      180    (1,545)      769
    Gain on disposal of discontinued
     operations                              -         6         9         6
                                      --------  --------  --------  --------
      Net income/(loss)               $   (228) $    186  $ (1,536) $    775
                                      ========  ========  ========  ========

                FORD MOTOR CREDIT COMPANY LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                 PRELIMINARY
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
                                (in millions)

                                                          December 31,
                                                  -------------------------
                                                     2008           2007
                                                  ----------     ----------
                                                  (Unaudited)
    ASSETS
      Cash and cash equivalents                   $   15,473     $   14,137
      Marketable securities                            8,606          3,155
      Finance receivables, net                        93,331        111,468
      Net investment in operating leases              22,506         29,663
      Retained interest in securitized assets             92            653
      Notes and accounts receivable from
       affiliated companies                            1,047            906
      Derivative financial instruments                 3,791          2,811
      Assets of held-for-sale operations                 214              -
      Other assets                                     5,067          6,230
                                                  ----------     ----------
          Total assets                            $  150,127     $  169,023
                                                  ==========     ==========

    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDER'S INTEREST
    Liabilities
      Accounts payable
        Customer deposits, dealer reserves and
         other                                    $    1,781     $    1,837
        Affiliated companies                           1,015          2,308
                                                  ----------     ----------
          Total accounts payable                       2,796          4,145
      Debt                                           126,458        139,411
      Deferred income taxes                            2,668          5,380
      Derivative financial instruments                 2,145          1,376
      Liabilities of held-for-sale operations             56              -
      Other liabilities and deferred income            5,438          5,314
                                                  ----------     ----------
          Total liabilities                          139,561        155,626

    Minority interests in net assets of subsidiaries       0              3

    Shareholder's interest
      Shareholder's interest                           5,149          5,149
      Accumulated other comprehensive income             432          1,730
      Retained earnings                                4,985          6,515
                                                  ----------     ----------
          Total shareholder's interest                10,566         13,394
                                                  ----------     ----------
          Total liabilities and shareholder's
           interest                               $  150,127     $  169,023
                                                  ==========     ==========

                FORD MOTOR CREDIT COMPANY LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
                             OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS

                                         Fourth Quarter         Full Year
                                       ------------------  ------------------
                                         2008      2007      2008      2007
                                       --------  --------  --------  --------
    Financing Shares
    United States
      Financing share - Ford, Lincoln and
       Mercury
        Retail installment and lease         34%       32%       39%       38%
        Wholesale                            78        78        77        78

    Europe
      Financing share - Ford
        Retail installment and lease         30%       27%       28%       26%
        Wholesale                            98        96        98        96

    Contract Volume - New and used
     retail/lease (in thousands)
    North America segment
      United States                         179       248     1,043     1,256
      Canada                                 27        38       149       186
                                       --------  --------  --------  --------
        Total North America segment         206       286     1,192     1,442

    International segment
      Europe                                125       155       629       696
      Other international                    24        48       129       207
                                       --------  --------  --------  --------
        Total International segment         149       203       758       903
                                       --------  --------  --------  --------
          Total contract volume             355       489     1,950     2,345
                                       ========  ========  ========  ========

    Borrowing Cost Rate*                    5.8%      6.2%      5.6%      6.1%

    Charge-offs (in millions)
      On-Balance Sheet Receivables
        Retail installment and lease   $    332  $    220  $  1,089  $    608
        Wholesale                            19        (8)       29        17
        Other                                13         4        17         7
                                       --------  --------  --------  --------
          Total charge-offs - on-
           balance sheet receivables   $    364  $    216  $  1,135  $    632
                                       ========  ========  ========  ========

      Total loss-to-receivables ratio      1.18%     0.61%     0.84%     0.46%

      Managed Receivables**
        Retail installment and lease   $    334  $    237  $  1,120  $    673
        Wholesale                            19        (8)       29        17
        Other                                13         4        17         7
                                       --------  --------  --------  --------
          Total charge-offs - managed
           receivables                 $    366  $    233  $  1,166  $    697
                                       ========  ========  ========  ========

      Total loss-to-receivables ratio      1.18%     0.62%     0.84%     0.47%

    - - - - -
    *  On-balance sheet debt includes the effects of derivatives and facility
       fees.
    ** See Appendix for additional information.

                FORD MOTOR CREDIT COMPANY LLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
                                   APPENDIX

In evaluating Ford Motor Credit’s financial performance, Ford Motor Credit
management uses financial measures based on Generally Accepted Accounting
Principles (“GAAP”), as well as financial measures that include adjustments
from GAAP. Included below are brief definitions of key terms, information
about the impact of on-balance sheet securitization and a reconciliation of
non-GAAP measures to GAAP:

    -- Managed receivables:  receivables reported on Ford Motor Credit's
       balance sheet, excluding unearned interest supplements related to
       finance receivables, and receivables Ford Motor Credit sold in off-
       balance sheet securitizations and continues to service
    -- Charge-offs on managed receivables:  charge-offs associated with
       receivables reported on Ford Motor Credit's balance sheet and charge-
       offs associated with receivables that Ford Motor Credit sold in off-
       balance sheet securitizations and continues to service
    -- Equity:  shareholder's interest reported on Ford Motor Credit's balance
       sheet

IMPACT OF ON-BALANCE SHEET SECURITIZATION: Finance receivables (retail and
wholesale) and net investment in operating leases reported on Ford Motor
Credit’s balance sheet include assets included in securitizations that do not
qualify for accounting sale treatment. These assets are available only for
repayment of the debt or other obligations issued or arising in the
securitization transactions; they are not available to pay the other
obligations of Ford Motor Credit or the claims of Ford Motor Credit’s other
creditors until the associated debt or other obligations are satisfied. Debt
reported on Ford Motor Credit’s balance sheet includes obligations issued or
arising in securitizations that are payable only out of collections on the
underlying securitized assets and related enhancements.


    RECONCILIATION OF NON-GAAP MEASURES TO GAAP:

    Managed Leverage Calculation                   December 31,   December 31,
                                                       2008           2007
                                                     --------       --------
                                                          (in billions)
    Total debt                                       $  126.5       $  139.4
    Securitized off-balance sheet receivables
     outstanding                                          0.6            6.0
    Retained interest in securitized off-balance
     sheet receivables                                   (0.1)          (0.7)
    Adjustments for cash, cash equivalents and
     marketable securities*                             (23.6)         (16.7)
    Adjustments for hedge accounting**                   (0.4)           0.0
                                                     --------       --------
      Total adjusted debt                            $  103.0       $  128.0
                                                     ========       ========

    Total equity (including minority interest)       $   10.6       $   13.4
    Adjustments for hedge accounting**                   (0.2)          (0.3)
                                                     --------       --------
      Total adjusted equity                          $   10.4       $   13.1
                                                     ========       ========

    Managed leverage (to 1) = Total adjusted
     debt / Total adjusted equity                         9.9            9.8
    Memo: Financial statement leverage (to 1) =
     Total debt / Total equity                           12.0           10.4

    Net Finance Receivables and Operating Leases   December 31,   December 31,
                                                       2008           2007
                                                     --------       --------
    On-Balance Sheet Receivables                          (in billions)
    Retail installment                               $   65.5       $   74.2
    Wholesale                                            27.7           34.8
    Other finance receivables                             2.8            3.4
    Unearned interest supplements                        (1.3)             -
    Allowance for credit losses                          (1.4)          (1.0)
                                                     --------       --------
      Finance receivables, net                           93.3          111.4
    Net investment in operating leases                   22.5           29.7
                                                     --------       --------
      Total net finance receivables and operating
       leases                                        $  115.8       $  141.1
                                                     ========       ========

    Off-Balance Sheet Receivables - Retail           $    0.6       $    6.0

    Managed Receivables
    Retail installment                               $   66.1       $   80.2
    Wholesale                                            27.7           34.8
    Other finance receivables                             2.8            3.4
    Unearned interest supplements                           -              -
    Allowance for credit losses                          (1.4)          (1.0)
                                                     --------       --------
      Finance receivables, net                           95.2          117.4
    Net investment in operating leases                   22.5           29.7
                                                     --------       --------
      Total net finance receivables and operating
       leases                                        $  117.7       $  147.1
                                                     ========       ========

    - - - - -
    *  Excludes marketable securities related to insurance activities.
    ** Primarily related to market valuation adjustments to derivatives due to
       movements in interest rates.

Categories: Uncategorized

International Speedway Corporation Reports Results for the Fourth Quarter and Full Year of Fiscal 2008

January 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — International Speedway Corporation (Nasdaq: ISCA; OTC Bulletin Board: ISCB) (“ISC”) today reported results for the fourth quarter and full year ended November 30, 2008.

“Given the impact the economic environment had on consumers and our corporate partners in 2008, we were pleased with our overall results,” said ISC President Lesa France Kennedy. “NASCAR fans remain the most avid and brand loyal in all of sports, and continue to attend live events in huge numbers. They are attracted to a sport that provides thrilling on-track competition by teams of highly-skilled athletes, which has been a hallmark of NASCAR racing for the last 60 years and will continue into the future. This backdrop will serve us well as we operate in a continued challenging landscape during 2009.”

Ms. France Kennedy continued, “Clearly we are sensitive to the financial pressures many of our fans are experiencing. To address this, we recently reduced ticket prices on over 150,000 seats, or 15 percent of capacity, for Sprint Cup events across the Company. Additionally, we are working closely with community partners to lower the overall race weekend cost for fans, such as reducing the number of minimum night stays at local hotels. We have seen a strong and favorable response to our efforts, and will continue to look for opportunities to support our fans during these unprecedented times.”

Fourth Quarter Comparison

Total revenues for the fourth quarter were $205.3 million, compared to revenues of $252.8 million in the prior-year period. Operating income decreased to $64.9 million during the period compared to $92.7 million in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.

In addition to adverse economic conditions affecting consumer and corporate spending, quarter-over-quarter comparability was impacted by:

  • The NASCAR Sprint Cup and Nationwide series race weekend at Auto Club Speedway which was conducted in the third quarter of 2008 as compared to the fourth quarter of 2007.
  • Accelerated depreciation of $0.5 million, or $0.01 per diluted share after tax, in the fourth quarter of 2008 for certain office and related buildings in Daytona Beach associated with the Company’s previously announced Daytona Live! project. The 2007 fourth quarter included accelerated depreciation charges of $0.5 million, or $0.01 per diluted share after tax.
  • The fourth quarter of 2007 includes impairment charges of $3.9 million, or $0.05 per diluted share after tax, for costs associated with the fill removal process on the Staten Island property and the impairment of certain other long-lived assets. By comparison, the 2008 fourth quarter includes impairment charges of approximately $323,000 to remove the net book value of certain assets retired from service.
  • The 2007 fourth quarter impairment of Motorsports Authentics’ (“MA”) goodwill and intangible assets as of November 30, 2007. ISC’s 50 percent portion was $34.8 million, or $0.65 per diluted share after tax.
  • A 2007 fourth quarter recognition of a deferred income tax credit of $1.6 million, or $0.03 per diluted share after tax, attributable to a revision to the income-based tax system in the State of Michigan. In accordance with the enacted legislation, the credit was equal to the deferred income tax liability recognized in ISC’s 2007 third quarter results.
  • The 2008 fourth quarter includes a charge to provide for working capital advances of $2.3 million, or $0.03 per diluted share after tax, associated with our joint venture project in Kansas for the development of a gaming and entertainment destination.

Net income for the fourth quarter of 2008 increased to $33.6 million, or $0.69 per diluted share, compared to net income of $22.5 million, or $0.43 per diluted share, in the prior year’s fourth quarter. Excluding discontinued operations and the aforementioned accelerated deprecation associated with the Daytona Live! project, impairment of long-lived assets and allowances against working capital advances associated with the development of a gaming and entertainment destination, non-GAAP (defined below) net income for the fourth quarter of 2008 was $35.6 million, or $0.73 per diluted share. This is compared to non-GAAP net income for the fourth quarter of 2007 of $57.6 million, or $1.11 per diluted share.

Full Year Comparison

For the year ended November 30, 2008, total revenues were $787.3 million, compared to $814.2 million in 2007. Operating income for the fiscal year was $235.8 million compared to $241.7 million in the prior year.

Year-over-year comparability was impacted by:

  • Accelerated depreciation charges in fiscal 2008 of $2.1 million, or $0.02 per diluted share after tax, associated with the previously discussed Daytona Live! project. Results for the year ended November 30, 2007, included accelerated depreciation charges of $14.7 million, or $0.17 per diluted share after tax.
  • 2008 impairment charges of $2.2 million, or $0.03 per diluted share after tax, associated with the previously discussed fill removal costs on Staten Island and net book value of certain assets retired from service. Results for the year ended November 30, 2007, included an impairment charge of $13.1 million, or $0.16 per diluted share after tax related to the Company’s decision to discontinue speedway development efforts in Kitsap County, Washington, and to a lesser extent, estimated costs for fill removal on the Company’s Staten Island property.
  • The aforementioned 2007 fourth quarter impairments combined with the 2007 third quarter write-down by MA of certain inventory and related assets, which was included in ISC’s equity losses totaled $47.2 million, or $0.88 per diluted share after tax.
  • The recognition of a tax benefit of $3.5 million, or $0.07 per diluted share after tax, associated with certain restructuring initiatives in the third quarter of 2008.
  • A 2008 first quarter non-cash charge of $3.8 million, or $0.08 per diluted share after tax, to correct the carrying value of certain other assets as of November 30, 2007.
  • The aforementioned 2008 fourth quarter costs of $2.3 million, or $0.03 per diluted share after tax, associated with the pursuit of a casino management contract at Wyandotte County, Kansas.

Net income for the year ended November 30, 2008, was $134.6 million, or $2.71 per diluted share, compared to $86.2 million, or $1.64 per diluted share in 2007. Excluding discontinued operations and the aforementioned accelerated depreciation, impairment of long-lived assets, the recognition of a tax benefit, the correction of certain other assets’ carrying value amounts, and allowances against working capital advances associated with the development of a gaming and entertainment destination, non-GAAP net income for the year ended November 30, 2008, was $139.1 million, or $2.80 per diluted share. This is compared to non-GAAP net income for the 2007 fiscal year end of $150.0 million, or $2.85 per diluted share.

GAAP to Non-GAAP Reconciliation

The following financial information is presented below using other than U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“non-GAAP”), and is reconciled to comparable information presented using GAAP. Non-GAAP net income and diluted earnings per share below are derived by adjusting amounts determined in accordance with GAAP for certain items presented in the accompanying selected operating statement data, net of taxes.

The 2007 adjustments relate to accelerated depreciation of certain office and related building structures in Daytona Beach; impairment of long-lived assets primarily related to ISC’s decision to discontinue speedway development efforts in Kitsap County, Washington, and, to a lesser extent, fill removal costs related to the Company’s Staten Island property; increased deferred income tax expense related to the change in Michigan state tax laws; and, the impairment of goodwill and intangible assets and write-down of certain inventory and related assets at MA.

The adjustments for 2008 relate to accelerated depreciation of certain office and related buildings in Daytona Beach; the impairment of long-lived assets associated with the fill removal process of the Staten Island property and the net book value of certain assets retired from service; a tax benefit associated with certain restructuring initiatives; a non-cash charge to correct the carrying value of certain other assets; and, an allowance against working capital advances associated with our joint venture project in Kansas for the development of a gaming and entertainment destination.

The Company believes such non-GAAP information is useful and meaningful to investors, and is used by investors and ISC to assess core operations. This non-GAAP financial information may not be comparable to similarly titled measures used by other entities and should not be considered as an alternative to operating income, net income or diluted earnings per share, which are determined in accordance with GAAP.


                                   (In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)
                                                  (Unaudited)

                                    Three Months Ended   Twelve Months Ended
                                    Nov. 30,   Nov. 30,  Nov. 30,  Nov. 30,
                                      2007       2008      2007      2008
                                    -------------------  -------------------
    Net income                       $22,474    $33,621   $86,201  $134,595
    Net loss from
     discontinued operations              34         45        90       163
                                         ---        ---       ---       ---
    Income from
     continuing operations            22,508     33,666    86,291   134,758

    Adjustments, net of tax:
      Additional depreciation            320        319     9,009     1,278
      Impairment of long-
       lived assets                    2,455        198     8,390     1,374
      MA impairment and
       inventory-related
       write down of equity
       investment                     33,913          -    46,327         -
      Tax benefit
       associated with
       restructuring
       initiatives                         -          -         -    (3,477)
      Michigan income tax             (1,595)         -         -         -
      Correction of certain
       other assets' carrying
       value                               -          -         -     3,758
      Allowance against
       advances to Kansas
       joint venture                       -      1,409         -     1,409
                                        ----       ----      ----      ----
    Non-GAAP net income              $57,601    $35,592  $150,017  $139,100
                                     =======    =======  ========  ========

    Per share data:
    Diluted earnings
     per share                         $0.43      $0.69     $1.64     $2.71
    Net loss from
     discontinued operations               -          -         -         -
                                         ---        ---       ---       ---Income from
     continuing operations              0.43       0.69      1.64      2.71

    Adjustments, net
     of tax:
      Additional depreciation           0.01       0.01      0.17      0.02
      Impairment of long-
       lived assets                     0.05          -      0.16      0.03
      MA impairment and
       inventory-related
       write down of equity
       investment                       0.65          -      0.88         -
      Tax benefit
       associated with
       restructuring
       initiatives                         -          -         -     (0.07)
      Michigan income tax              (0.03)         -         -         -
      Correction of certain
       other assets' carrying
       value                               -          -         -      0.08
      Allowance against
       advances to Kansas
       joint venture                       -       0.03         -      0.03
                                        ----       ----      ----      ----
    Non-GAAP diluted
     earnings per share                $1.11      $0.73     $2.85     $2.80
                                       =====      =====     =====     =====

Event Weekends

ISC hosted seven major motorsports event weekends in the fourth quarter, which included six NASCAR Sprint Cup events; four NASCAR Nationwide events; four NASCAR Craftsman Truck events; one IRL IndyCar event; and two ARCA RE/MAX events.

The 2008 NASCAR season ended on a historic note, with Jimmie Johnson capturing his third consecutive NASCAR Sprint Cup Championship, a feat that hasn’t been accomplished in 30 years.

In the first quarter, ISC will host four major motorsports event weekends, which includes four NASCAR Sprint Cup events; two NASCAR Nationwide events; two NASCAR Camping World Truck events (previously entitled the NASCAR Craftsman Truck series); one Grand-Am series event; and one ARCA RE/MAX series event.

Daytona International Speedway opened the 2009 race season with its annual lineup of events known as DIRECTV Speedweeks, which combines the best sports car, stock car and truck racing in the world. DIRECTV Speedweeks’ first event was the 47th running of the Grand-Am Rolex 24 at Daytona. The event ended with the closest margin of victory in the history of the Rolex 24 with the No. 58 Brumos Racing Porsche Riley winning by 0.167 seconds. DIRECTV Speedweeks concludes on February 15, with the 51st running of the Daytona 500, the most prestigious motorsports race in North America.

ISC was successful in securing significant corporate partnerships during 2008. Most notably, the Company secured a multi-year, multi-million dollar naming rights agreement with the Auto Club of Southern California. In addition, ISC has been successful, in light of the current economy, in brining new sponsors into the sport, such as ServiceMaster Clean and NextEra Energy Resources. Also, ISC secured title sponsors for all of its major events in 2008 and has agreements in place for almost 80 percent of its 2009 events.

External Growth and Related Initiatives

MA, the Company’s motorsports-related merchandise 50/50 joint venture with Speedway Motorsports, contributed $1.6 million to equity income for the year. This is a significant turnaround from 2007, when MA posted a non-GAAP operating loss of $19.6 million, and ISC recorded a $9.8 million equity loss to reflect its 50 percent portion.

As previously announced in September, Kansas Entertainment, LLC (“KE”), ISC’s 50/50 joint venture with The Cordish Company (“Cordish”), was awarded the casino management contract for Wyandotte County, Kansas, by the Kansas Lottery Gaming Facility Review Board. However, on December 5, 2008, KE withdrew its proposed Hard Rock Hotel & Casino at Kansas Speedway application for Lottery Gaming Facility Manager for the Northeast Kansas gaming zone due to the uncertainty in the global financial markets and the expected inability to finance the project at reasonable rates.

The State of Kansas has re-opened the bidding process for the casino management contract and KE expects to resubmit a proposal to include a phased approach for the non-gaming amenities. In addition, KE’s proposal will include a commitment to petition NASCAR to realign a second date to Kansas from one of ISC’s existing facilities as well as build a state-of-the-art road course in the infield at Kansas Speedway.

Daytona Live!, a mixed-use entertainment destination development that ISC is also pursuing in a 50/50 joint venture with Cordish, is moving forward. The eight-story office building that will serve as ISC, NASCAR and Grand-Am’s corporate headquarters is currently under construction with completion expected late in the fourth quarter of 2009. The retail, dining, and entertainment component of Daytona Live is being actively marketed by Cordish. Cobb Theaters has already announced its intention to anchor the complex with a state of the art, 65,000 square foot theater. Cordish is having productive conversations with other potential tenants.

The Company is also having productive conversations concerning a settlement with the Internal Revenue Service and the sale of its 676 acre parcel on Staten Island and remains hopeful that a transaction will occur in 2009.

Share Repurchase Program

In the 2008 fourth quarter, ISC purchased approximately 182,000 shares of its Class A Common Stock for $7.5 million. From initiation of the program in December 2006 through November 30, 2008, the Company purchased a total of 4.7 million shares for $208.0 million, leaving $42.0 million in remaining capacity on its $250 million authorization as of November 30, 2008.

ISC ceased repurchasing shares in September 2008 as a result of the turbulent credit markets and its desire to conserve cash given its $150 million in Senior Notes due this April. Once the Company is able to refinance at an acceptable rate, it expects to resume the repurchase program as it is viewed as a critical component in the Company’s long-term capital allocation strategy designed to build shareholder value.

Ms. France Kennedy concluded, “Although these are challenging times, we are fortunate to be aligned with a leading sports property that is healthy and supported by tens of millions of passionate fans. The NASCAR Sprint Cup series remains the largest spectator sport in the country and the second most watched on television. This provides an excellent backdrop as we move through the coming year.

“More importantly, ISC remains a dynamic company uniquely positioned to prosper well into the future as our business model is supported by a solid foundation of contracted revenues. Combined with prudent cost containment measures and a well-planned capital allocation strategy, we expect to continue to generate substantial cash flow that can be reinvested in value-added opportunities, including returning cash to our shareholders.”

Conference Call Details

The management of ISC will host a conference call today with investors at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time. To participate, dial (888) 694-4641 five to ten minutes prior to the scheduled start time and request to be connected to the ISC earnings call, identification number 81320872. A live Webcast will also be available at that time on the Company’s Web site, www.iscmotorsports.com, under the “Investor Relations” section.

A replay will be available two hours after the end of the call through midnight Thursday, February 5, 2009. To access, dial (800) 642-1687 and enter the code 81320872, or visit the “Investor Relations” section of the Company’s Web site.

International Speedway Corporation is a leading promoter of motorsports activities, currently promoting more than 100 racing events annually as well as numerous other motorsports-related activities. The Company owns and/or operates 13 of the nation’s major motorsports entertainment facilities, including Daytona International Speedway(R) in Florida (home of the Daytona 500(R)); Talladega Superspeedway(R) in Alabama; Michigan International Speedway(R) located outside Detroit; Richmond International Raceway(R) in Virginia; Auto Club Speedway of Southern California(SM) near Los Angeles; Kansas Speedway(R) in Kansas City, Kansas; Phoenix International Raceway(R) in Arizona; Chicagoland Speedway(R) and Route 66 Raceway(SM) near Chicago, Illinois; Homestead-Miami Speedway(SM) in Florida; Martinsville Speedway(R) in Virginia; Darlington Raceway(R) in South Carolina; and Watkins Glen International(R) in New York.

The Company also owns and operates MRN(R) Radio, the nation’s largest independent sport radio network; the Daytona 500 Experience(SM), the “Ultimate Motorsports Attraction” in Daytona Beach, Florida, and official attraction of NASCAR(R); and Americrown Service Corporation(SM), a subsidiary that provides catering services, food and beverage concessions, and produces and markets motorsports-related merchandise. In addition, ISC has an indirect 50 percent interest in Motorsports Authentics(R), which markets and distributes motorsports-related merchandise licensed by certain competitors in NASCAR racing. For more information, visit the Company’s Web site at www.iscmotorsports.com.

Statements made in this release that express the Company’s or management’s beliefs or expectations and which are not historical facts or which are applied prospectively are forward-looking statements. It is important to note that the Company’s actual results could differ materially from those contained in or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company’s results could be impacted by risk factors, including, but not limited to, weather surrounding racing events, government regulations, economic conditions, consumer and corporate spending, military actions, air travel and national or local catastrophic events. Additional information concerning factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements is contained from time to time in the Company’s SEC filings including, but not limited to, the 10-K and subsequent 10-Qs. Copies of those filings are available from the Company and the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that may be needed to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. The inclusion of any statement in this release does not constitute an admission by International Speedway or any other person that the events or circumstances described in such statement are material.

(Tables follow)

                      Consolidated Statements of Operations
                    (In Thousands, Except Per Share Amounts)

                                Three Months Ended      Twelve Months Ended
                                Nov. 30,    Nov. 30,    Nov. 30,    Nov. 30,
                                 2007        2008        2007        2008
                               ---------   ---------   ---------   ---------
                                    (Unaudited)
    REVENUES:
         Admissions, net         $78,167     $63,863    $253,685    $236,105
         Motorsports related     143,016     119,178     465,469     462,835
         Food, beverage
          and merchandise         27,135      19,298      84,163      78,119
         Other                     4,531       2,911      10,911      10,195
                                   -----       -----      ------      ------
                                 252,849     205,250     814,228     787,254

    EXPENSES:
         Direct:
              Prize and point
               fund monies and
               NASCAR sanction
               fees               49,970      42,798     151,311     154,655
              Motorsports
               related            45,144      41,135     160,387     166,047
              Food, beverage
               and merchandise    14,984      11,958      48,490      48,159
         General and
          administrative          28,855      25,808     118,982     109,439
         Depreciation and
          amortization            17,232      18,293      80,205      70,911
         Impairment of
          long-lived assets        3,926         323      13,110       2,237
                                   -----         ---      ------       -----
                                 160,111     140,315     572,485     551,448
                                 -------     -------     -------     -------

    Operating income              92,738      64,935     241,743     235,806
    Interest income and other      1,291         648       4,990      (1,630)
    Interest expense              (3,847)     (4,962)    (15,628)    (15,861)
    Minority interest                  -         194           -         324
    Equity in net loss
     from equity investments     (36,391)     (5,817)    (58,147)     (1,203)
                                 -------      ------     -------      ------

    Income from continuing
     operations before
     income taxes                 53,791      54,998     172,958     217,436
    Income taxes                  31,283      21,332      86,667      82,678
                                  ------      ------      ------      ------

    Income from continuing
     operations                   22,508      33,666      86,291     134,758
    Loss from discontinued
     operations                      (34)        (45)        (90)       (163)
                                     ---         ---         ---        ----
    Net income                   $22,474     $33,621     $86,201    $134,595
                                 -------     -------     -------    --------

    Basic earnings per share:
         Income from
          continuing operations    $0.43       $0.69       $1.64       $2.71
         Loss from discontinued
          operations                   -           -           -           -
                                     ---         ---         ---         ---
         Net income                $0.43       $0.69       $1.64       $2.71
                                   -----       -----       -----       -----

    Diluted earnings per share:
         Income from
          continuing operations    $0.43       $0.69       $1.64       $2.71
         Loss from discontinued
          operations                   -           -           -           -
                                     ---         ---         ---         ---
         Net income                $0.43       $0.69       $1.64       $2.71
                                   -----       -----       -----       -----

    Dividends per share               $-          $-       $0.10       $0.12
                                     ---         ---       -----       -----

    Basic weighted average
     shares outstanding       51,853,828  48,560,549  52,557,550  49,589,465
                              ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------

    Diluted weighted
     average shares
     outstanding              51,959,612  48,670,245  52,669,934  49,688,909
                              ----------  ----------  ----------  ----------


                          Consolidated Balance Sheets
                                (In Thousands)
                                                November 30,  November 30,
                                                   2007          2008
                                              ------------- -------------
    ASSETS
    Current Assets:
         Cash and cash equivalents                  $57,316      $218,920
         Short-term investments                      39,250           200
         Restricted cash                                  -         2,405
         Receivables, less allowance of $1,200 in
          2007 and 2008                              46,860        47,558
         Inventories                                  4,508         3,763
         Deferred income taxes                        1,345         1,838
         Prepaid expenses and other current
          assets                                     10,547         7,194
                                                     ------         -----
    Total Current Assets                            159,826       281,878

    Property and Equipment, net                   1,303,178     1,331,231
    Other Assets:
         Long-term restricted cash and
          investments                                     -        40,187
         Equity investments                          76,839        77,613
         Intangible assets, net                     178,984       178,841
         Goodwill                                   118,791       118,791
         Deposits with Internal Revenue
          Service                                   117,936       117,936
         Other                                       26,563        34,342
                                                     ------        ------
                                                    519,113       567,710
                                                    -------       -------
    Total Assets                                 $1,982,117    $2,180,819
                                                 ----------    ----------

    LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
    Current Liabilities:
         Current portion of long-term debt           $2,538      $153,002
         Accounts payable                            37,508        26,393
         Deferred income                            128,631       103,549
         Income taxes payable                        22,179         8,659
         Other current liabilities                   21,447        18,035
                                                     ------        ------
    Total Current Liabilities                       212,303       309,638

    Long-Term Debt                                  375,009       422,045
    Deferred Income Taxes                           214,109       104,172
    Long-Term Tax Liabilities                             -       161,834
    Long-Term Deferred Income                        15,531        13,646
    Other Long-Term Liabilities                       6,077        28,125
    Commitments and Contingencies                         -             -
    Shareholders' Equity:
         Class A Common Stock, $.01 par value,
          80,000,000 shares authorized;
          30,010,422 and 27,397,924 issued and
          outstanding in 2007 and 2008,
          respectively                                  300           274
         Class B Common Stock, $.01 par value,
          40,000,000 shares authorized;
          21,593,025 and 21,150,471 issued and
          outstanding in 2007 and 2008,
          respectively                                  216           211
         Additional paid-in capital                 621,528       497,277
         Retained earnings                          537,044       665,405
         Accumulated other comprehensive loss             -       (21,808)
                                                        ---       -------
    Total Shareholders' Equity                    1,159,088     1,141,359
                                                  ---------     ---------
    Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity   $1,982,117    $2,180,819
                                                 ----------    ----------

                      Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
                                  (In Thousands)

                                                     Twelve Months Ended
                                                November 30,   November 30,
                                                    2007           2008
                                                -------------  -------------
    OPERATING ACTIVITIES
    Net income                                        $86,201       $134,595
         Adjustments to reconcile net income to
          net cash provided by
              Operating activities:
              Depreciation and amortization            80,205         70,911
              Minority interest                             -           (324)
              Stock-based compensation                  4,046          3,282
              Amortization of financing costs             517            517
              Deferred income taxes                    23,374         30,753
              Loss from equity investments             58,147          1,203
              Impairment of long-lived assets           8,170            784
              Excess tax benefits relating to
               stock-based compensation                  (170)             -
              Other, net                                  154          3,921
              Changes in operating assets and
               liabilities:
                   Receivables, net                     7,525           (698)
                   Inventories, prepaid
                    expenses and other assets          (2,142)         4,117
                   Deposits with Internal
                    Revenue Service                    (7,123)             -
                   Accounts payable and other
                    liabilities                         5,045         (8,233)
                   Deferred income                     (5,712)       (26,967)
                   Income taxes                          (121)         7,030
                                                         ----          -----
    Net cash provided by operating activities         258,116        220,891

    INVESTING ACTIVITIES
         Capital expenditures                         (96,060)      (107,036)
         Acquisition of business, net of cash
          acquired                                    (87,111)             -
         Proceeds from affiliate                           67          4,700
         Advance to affiliate                            (200)       (18,450)
         Increase in restricted cash                        -        (42,592)
         Proceeds from short-term investments         105,320         41,700
         Purchases of short-term investments          (66,570)        (2,650)
         Purchases of equity investments                    -            (81)
         Other, net                                       264            700
                                                          ---            ---
    Net cash used in investing activities            (144,290)      (123,709)

    FINANCING ACTIVITIES
         Proceeds under credit facility                65,000        170,000
         Payments under credit facility               (65,000)       (20,000)
         Proceeds of long-term debt                         -         51,300
         Payment of long-term debt                    (29,910)        (3,505)
         Exercise of Class A common stock options         357              -
         Cash dividends paid                           (5,292)        (5,960)
         Excess tax benefits relating to
          stock-based compensation                        170              -
         Reacquisition of previously issued
          common stock                                (81,516)      (127,413)
                                                      -------       --------
    Net cash (used in) provided by financing
     activities                                      (116,191)        64,422
                                                     --------         ------

    Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash
     equivalents                                       (2,365)       161,604
    Cash and cash equivalents at beginning
     of period                                         59,681         57,316
                                                       ------         ------
    Cash and cash equivalents at end of period        $57,316       $218,920
                                                      -------       --------

Categories: Uncategorized

Lear Corporation Reports Preliminary Fourth-Quarter and Full-Year 2008 Financial Results

January 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

SOUTHFIELD, Mich., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Lear Corporation
(NYSE: LEA), a leading global supplier of automotive seating systems,
electrical distribution systems and electronic products, today reported
preliminary financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2008, as
follows:

    -- Net sales of $2.6 billion in Q4 and $13.6 billion for full year
    -- Core operating earnings positive in Q4 and strong for full year
    -- Year end cash and cash equivalents balance of $1.6 billion
    -- Accelerated and expanded global restructuring and cost reduction
       efforts
    -- Continued to diversify sales, with 64% of 2008 revenue generated
       outside of N.A.
    -- Awarded electrical and electronic content on Chevy Volt and other new
       hybrids

    (Logo:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080520/LEARCORPLOGO )

Business Conditions

The production environment in the fourth quarter was extremely challenging
due to significantly lower production volumes globally. In North America,
industry production compared with a year ago was down 26%, the Domestic Three
were down 30%, and our top fifteen platforms were down 26%. In Europe,
industry production was down 29%, and our top five customers were down 31%.
Globally, automotive production was down 21%.

“These sharp declines in automotive production in North America and
globally dramatically impacted our financial results in the fourth quarter,”
said Bob Rossiter, Lear’s chairman, chief executive officer and president.
“We have been aggressively restructuring our global operations in response to
changing business conditions. Lear’s strategy to manage through the downturn
is to accelerate and expand global restructuring and cost reduction efforts,
to narrow our investment focus to minimize cash burn and to continue to
provide our customers with superior value.”

Fourth-Quarter 2008 Financial Results

For the fourth quarter of 2008, Lear reported net sales of $2.6 billion
and a pretax loss of $692.1 million, driven largely by a non-cash goodwill
impairment charge of $530.0 million and restructuring costs of $66.2 million.
Income before interest, other (income) expense, income taxes, restructuring
costs and other special items (core operating earnings) was $22.0 million in
the fourth quarter of 2008. This compares with net sales of $3.9 billion,
pretax income of $45.1 million and core operating earnings of $178.6 million
in the fourth quarter of 2007. A reconciliation of core operating earnings to
pretax income (loss) as determined by generally accepted accounting principles
(“GAAP”) is provided in the attached supplemental data pages.

The decline in net sales for the quarter primarily reflects a significant
reduction in production in North America and Europe.

In the seating segment, net sales were down 32% to $2.1 billion.
Operating margins declined sharply, reflecting primarily the impact of lower
vehicle production offset partially by favorable cost performance. In the
electrical and electronic segment, net sales were down 33% to $529 million.
Operating margins declined significantly, driven by lower vehicle production
offset partially by favorable cost performance.

Net loss was $688.2 million, or $8.91 per share, including the non-cash
goodwill impairment charge and restructuring costs, for the fourth quarter of
2008. This compares with net income of $27.0 million, or $0.34 per share, in
the year earlier quarter.

In the fourth quarter of 2008, free cash flow was negative $38.3 million,
as compared with free cash flow of $170.9 million in the fourth quarter of
2007. The decline in free cash flow compared with a year ago primarily
reflects lower earnings. Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
was ($90.9) million and $157.4 million in the fourth quarters of 2008 and
2007, respectively. A reconciliation of free cash flow to net cash provided
by (used in) operating activities as determined by GAAP is provided in the
attached supplemental data pages.

Full-Year 2008 Financial Results

For the full year 2008, Lear reported net sales of $13.6 billion and a
pretax loss of $604.1 million, driven largely by a non-cash goodwill
impairment charge of $530.0 million and restructuring costs of $193.9 million.
Core operating earnings were $418.4 million for the full year 2008. This
compares with net sales of $16.0 billion, pretax income of $331.4 million and
core operating earnings of $748.5 million in 2007. A reconciliation of core
operating earnings to pretax income (loss) as determined by GAAP is provided
in the attached supplemental data pages.

The decline in net sales for the full year primarily reflects a
significant reduction in production in North America and Europe and the
divestiture of the interior business, partially offset by favorable foreign
exchange. The decline in core operating earnings reflects the decline in net
sales offset in part by favorable cost performance, including the benefit of
restructuring actions.

Lear reported a net loss of $689.9 million, or $8.93 per share, including
the non-cash goodwill impairment charge and restructuring costs, for the
full-year 2008. This compares with net income of $241.5 million, or $3.09 per
share, for the full-year 2007.

Free cash flow in 2008 was negative $70.7 million as compared with free
cash flow of $433.6 million in 2007. The decline primarily reflects lower
earnings and higher cash costs for restructuring. Net cash provided by
operating activities was $144.2 million and $466.9 million in 2008 and 2007,
respectively. A reconciliation of free cash flow to net cash provided by
operating activities as determined by GAAP is provided in the attached
supplemental data pages.

For the year, Lear continued to make progress on its strategic priorities,
including further diversification of its global sales, business development in
emerging markets and the implementation of an operating improvement plan for
the electrical and electronic segment. Approximately two-thirds of Lear’s
2008 net sales were generated outside of North America. In addition, Lear
continues to improve quality and win new business globally. Our business
backlog for the 2009 to 2011 period currently stands at $1.1 billion, with 60%
in the seating segment and 40% in the electrical and electronic segment,
including recent awards on the Chevy Volt and several other new hybrid models.

In terms of liquidity, the Company had approximately $1.6 billion in cash
and cash equivalents as of December 31, 2008, providing more than adequate
resources to satisfy ordinary course business obligations. During the fourth
quarter of 2008, Lear chose to borrow $1.2 billion under its primary credit
facility in order to protect against disruptions in the capital markets and to
further bolster its liquidity position. The Company elected not to repay the
amounts borrowed at year end in light of continued market and industry
uncertainty. As a result of this decision, the Company is no longer in
compliance with the leverage ratio contained in its primary credit facility.
The Company has initiated discussions with the co-agents under its primary
credit facility to seek a long-term amendment. The discussions have been
constructive and are continuing. Because the amendment will require support
from lenders holding a majority of outstanding commitments and borrowings
under the primary credit facility, the Company intends to pursue discussions
with a broader lender group before finalizing the amendment proposal and
launching the formal amendment process. If the Company is unable to obtain an
amendment, upon a majority vote of the lenders under the primary credit
facility, the lenders would have the right to exercise all remedies
thereunder, which would have a material adverse effect on the Company’s
financial position.

Lear will webcast a conference call to review the Company’s fourth-quarter
2008 financial results and related matters on Thursday, January 29, 2009, at
8:00 a.m. eastern time through the Investor Relations link at
http://www.lear.com. In addition, the conference call can be accessed by
dialing 1-800-789-4751 (domestic) or 1-973-200-3975 (international). The
audio replay will be available two hours following the call at 1-800-642-1687
(domestic) or 1-706-645-9291 (international) and will be available until
February 12, 2009, with a Conference I.D. of 75075891.

Non-GAAP Financial Information

In addition to the results reported in accordance with GAAP included
throughout this press release, the Company has provided information regarding
“income before interest, other expense, income taxes, restructuring costs and
other special items” (core operating earnings) and “free cash flow” (each, a
non-GAAP financial measure). Other expense includes, among other things, non-
income related taxes, foreign exchange gains and losses, discounts and
expenses associated with the Company’s asset-backed securitization and
factoring facilities, minority interests in consolidated subsidiaries, equity
in net income of affiliates and gains and losses on the sale of assets. Free
cash flow represents net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
before the net change in sold accounts receivable, less capital expenditures.
The Company believes it is appropriate to exclude the net change in sold
accounts receivable in the calculation of free cash flow since the sale of
receivables may be viewed as a substitute for borrowing activity.

Management believes the non-GAAP financial measures used in this press
release are useful to both management and investors in their analysis of the
Company’s financial position and results of operations. In particular,
management believes that core operating earnings is a useful measure in
assessing the Company’s financial performance by excluding certain items
(including those items that are included in other expense) that are not
indicative of the Company’s core operating earnings or that may obscure trends
useful in evaluating the Company’s continuing operating activities.
Management also believes that this measure is useful to both management and
investors in their analysis of the Company’s results of operations and
provides improved comparability between fiscal periods. Management believes
that free cash flow is useful to both management and investors in their
analysis of the Company’s ability to service and repay its debt. Further,
management uses these non-GAAP financial measures for planning and forecasting
in future periods.

Core operating earnings and free cash flow should not be considered in
isolation or as a substitute for pretax income (loss), net income (loss), cash
provided by (used in) operating activities or other statement of operations or
cash flow statement data prepared in accordance with GAAP or as a measure of
profitability or liquidity. In addition, the calculation of free cash flow
does not reflect cash used to service debt and therefore, does not reflect
funds available for investment or other discretionary uses. Also, these non-
GAAP financial measures, as determined and presented by the Company, may not
be comparable to related or similarly titled measures reported by other
companies.

For reconciliations of non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly
comparable financial measures calculated and presented in accordance with
GAAP, see the attached supplemental data pages which, together with this press
release, have been posted on the Company’s website through the Investor
Relations link at http://www.lear.com

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning
of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements
regarding anticipated financial results and liquidity. Actual results may
differ materially from anticipated results as a result of certain risks and
uncertainties, including but not limited to, general economic conditions in
the markets in which the Company operates, including changes in interest rates
or currency exchange rates, the financial condition of the Company’s customers
or suppliers, changes in actual industry vehicle production levels from the
Company’s current estimates, fluctuations in the production of vehicles for
which the Company is a supplier, the loss of business with respect to, or the
lack of commercial success of, a vehicle model for which the Company is a
significant supplier, including further declines in sales of full-size pickup
trucks and large sport utility vehicles, disruptions in the relationships with
the Company’s suppliers, labor disputes involving the Company or its
significant customers or suppliers or that otherwise affect the Company, the
Company’s ability to achieve cost reductions that offset or exceed customer-
mandated selling price reductions, the outcome of customer negotiations, the
impact and timing of program launch costs, the costs, timing and success of
restructuring actions, increases in the Company’s warranty or product
liability costs, risks associated with conducting business in foreign
countries, competitive conditions impacting the Company’s key customers and
suppliers, the cost and availability of raw materials and energy, the
Company’s ability to mitigate increases in raw material, energy and commodity
costs, the outcome of legal or regulatory proceedings to which the Company is
or may become a party, unanticipated changes in cash flow, including the
Company’s ability to align its vendor payment terms with those of its
customers, the Company’s ability to access capital markets on commercially
reasonable terms, further impairment charges initiated by adverse industry or
market developments, the Company’s ability to obtain a waiver or amendment
under its primary credit facility and other risks described from time to time
in the Company’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings. Future operating
results will be based on various factors, including actual industry production
volumes, commodity prices and the Company’s success in implementing its
operating strategy.

This press release also contains information on the Company’s sales
backlog. The Company’s incremental sales backlog reflects anticipated net
sales from formally awarded new programs and open replacement programs, less
phased-out and cancelled programs. The calculation of backlog does not
reflect customer price reductions on existing or newly awarded programs. The
backlog may be impacted by various assumptions embedded in the calculation,
including vehicle production levels on new and replacement programs, foreign
exchange rates and the timing of major program launches. Lear’s 2009 – 2011
sales backlog is based on an exchange rate of $1.40/per Euro and the December
15, 2008 status of CSM Worldwide’s industry production assumptions.

The forward-looking statements in this press release are made as of the
date hereof, and the Company does not assume any obligation to update, amend
or clarify them to reflect events, new information or circumstances occurring
after the date hereof.

Lear Corporation is one of the world’s leading suppliers of automotive
seating systems, electrical distribution systems and electronic products. The
Company’s world-class products are designed, engineered and manufactured by a
diverse team of 80,000 employees at 215 facilities in 35 countries. Lear’s
headquarters are in Southfield, Michigan, and Lear is traded on the New York
Stock Exchange under the symbol [LEA]. Further information about Lear is
available on the Internet at http://www.lear.com.


                      Lear Corporation and Subsidiaries
                    Consolidated Statements of Operations

                   (In millions, except per share amounts)

                                                      Three Months Ended
                                                December 31,      December 31,
                                                   2008              2007

    Net sales                                     $2,600.4          $3,859.0

    Cost of sales                                  2,542.3           3,626.3
    Selling, general and administrative expenses      96.6             146.1
    Goodwill impairment charges                      530.0                -
    Divestiture of Interior business                    -                2.9
    Interest expense                                  50.8              48.9
    Other (income) expense, net                       72.8             (10.3)

    Income (loss) before income taxes               (692.1)             45.1
    Income taxes                                      (3.9)             18.1

    Net income (loss)                              $(688.2)            $27.0

    Basic net income (loss) per share               $(8.91)            $0.35

    Diluted net income (loss) per share             $(8.91)            $0.34

    Weighted average number of shares outstanding
      Basic                                           77.3              77.2
      Diluted                                         77.3              78.3

                      Lear Corporation and Subsidiaries
                    Consolidated Statements of Operations

                   (In millions, except per share amounts)

                                                      Twelve Months Ended
                                                December 31,      December 31,
                                                   2008              2007

    Net sales                                    $13,570.5         $15,995.0

    Cost of sales                                 12,826.5          14,846.5
    Selling, general and administrative expenses     513.2             574.7
    Goodwill impairment charges                      530.0                -
    Divestiture of Interior business                    -               10.7
    Interest expense                                 190.3             199.2
    Other expense, net                               114.6              32.5

    Income (loss) before income taxes               (604.1)            331.4
    Income taxes                                      85.8              89.9

    Net income (loss)                              $(689.9)           $241.5

    Basic net income (loss) per share               $(8.93)            $3.14

    Diluted net income (loss) per share             $(8.93)            $3.09

    Weighted average number of shares outstanding
      Basic                                           77.2              76.8
      Diluted                                         77.2              78.2

                      Lear Corporation and Subsidiaries
                         Selected Balance Sheet Data

                                (In millions)

                                                December 31,      December 31,
                                                    2008               2007

         Cash and cash equivalents *               $1,592.1            $601.3
         PP&E, net                                  1,213.5           1,392.7
         Total assets                               6,872.9           7,800.4
         Reported debt *                            3,526.8           2,454.6
         Stockholders' equity                         198.9           1,090.7

* Increase in cash and cash equivalents and in reported debt is primarily
due to borrowings of $1.2 billion under the Company’s primary credit facility.


                      Lear Corporation and Subsidiaries
                              Supplemental Data

     (Unaudited; in millions, except content per vehicle and share data)

                                                      Three Months Ended
                                                December 31,      December 31,
                                                    2008             2007
        Net Sales
        North America                              $1,036.5         $1,566.4
        Europe                                      1,121.2          1,781.0
        Rest of World                                 442.7            511.6
        Total                                      $2,600.4         $3,859.0

        Content Per Vehicle *
        North America                                  $368             $430
        Europe                                         $293             $344

        Free Cash Flow **
        Net cash provided by (used in)
         operating activities                        $(90.9)          $157.4
        Net change in sold accounts receivable         86.5            101.6
        Net cash provided by (used in) operating
         activities before net change in sold
         accounts receivable                           (4.4)           259.0
        Capital expenditures                          (33.9)           (88.1)
        Free cash flow                               $(38.3)          $170.9

        Depreciation and Amortization                 $71.8            $76.0

        Core Operating Earnings **
        Pretax income (loss)                        $(692.1)           $45.1
        Interest expense                               50.8             48.9
        Other (income) expense, net                    67.1  ***       (10.3)
        Restructuring costs and other special
         items -
          Goodwill impairment charges                 530.0                -
          Divestiture of Interior business                -              2.9
          Costs related to restructuring actions       66.2             93.9
          Costs related to merger transaction             -             (1.9)
        Core Operating Earnings                       $22.0           $178.6

* Content Per Vehicle for 2007 has been updated to reflect actual
production levels.

** See “Non-GAAP Financial Information” included in this press release.

*** Reported 2008 other expense, net of $72.8 million includes costs
related to restructuring actions of $5.7 million listed below.


                      Lear Corporation and Subsidiaries
                              Supplemental Data

     (Unaudited; in millions, except content per vehicle and share data)

                                                   Twelve Months Ended
                                             December 31,     December 31,
                                                 2008             2007
    Net Sales
    North America                               $4,924.6         $7,260.4
    Europe                                       6,593.2          6,895.1
    Rest of World                                2,052.7          1,839.5
    Total                                      $13,570.5        $15,995.0

    Net Sales - Core Businesses
    North America                               $4,924.6         $6,648.4
    Europe                                       6,593.2          6,827.1
    Rest of World                                2,052.7          1,830.6
    Total                                      $13,570.5        $15,306.1

    Content Per Vehicle *
    North America                                   $391             $483
    North America - core businesses                 $391             $443
    Europe                                          $348             $342
    Europe - core businesses                        $348             $338

    Free Cash Flow **
    Net cash provided by operating activities     $144.2           $466.9
    Net change in sold accounts receivable         (47.2)           168.9
    Net cash provided by operating activities
     before net change in sold accounts receivable  97.0            635.8
    Capital expenditures                          (167.7)          (202.2)
    Free cash flow                                $(70.7)          $433.6

    Depreciation and Amortization                 $299.3           $296.9

    Basic Shares Outstanding at end of
     quarter                                  77,403,859       77,189,965

    Diluted Shares Outstanding at end of
     quarter ***                              77,403,859       78,159,822

    Core Operating Earnings **
    Pretax income (loss)                         $(604.1)          $331.4
    Interest expense                               190.3            199.2
    Other expense, net                             108.3  ****       28.6 ****
    Restructuring costs and other special
     items -
      Goodwill impairment charges                  530.0                -
      Costs related to divestiture of
       Interior business                               -             20.7
      Costs related to restructuring
       actions                                     193.9            181.8
      U.S. salaried pension plan
       curtailment gain                                -            (36.4)
      Costs related to merger transaction              -             34.9
      Loss on joint venture transaction                -              3.9
    Less:  Interior business                           -            (15.6)
    Core Operating Earnings                       $418.4           $748.5

* Content Per Vehicle for 2007 has been updated to reflect actual
production levels.

** See “Non-GAAP Financial Information” included in this press release.

*** Calculated using stock price at end of quarter. Excludes certain
shares related to outstanding convertible debt, as well as certain options,
restricted stock units, performance units and stock appreciation rights, all
of which were antidilutive.

**** Reported other expense, net of $114.6 million in 2008 and $32.5
million in 2007 includes costs related to restructuring actions of $6.3
million in 2008 and the loss on joint venture transaction of $3.9 million in
2007 listed below.

Categories: Uncategorized

Fuel Tech Awarded Multiple Air Pollution Control Orders Totaling $3.5 Million; Includes First NOxOUT(R) Project in Canada

January 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

WARRENVILLE, Ill., Jan. 29 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ — Fuel Tech, Inc. (Nasdaq: FTEK), a world leader in advanced engineering solutions for the optimization of combustion systems in utility and industrial applications, today announced receipt of multiple air pollution control contracts totaling $3.5 million. Principal among these were two orders for NOxOUT(R) Selective Non-Catalytic Reduction (SNCR) systems, the first by a Canadian electric utility for an existing coal-fired unit, with start-up expected later this quarter, and the second by a French customer for turnkey installation on three municipal solid waste (MSW) incinerators, with start-up scheduled to commence during the fourth quarter.

In addition to these initiatives, contracts were secured from a Korean client for modeling and related services; a British customer for physical and computational modeling of a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) system; and a U.S. glass manufacturer for the Company’s recently introduced “mini-SCR” system. A number of supplemental equipment orders were also received for previously announced projects, including NOxOUT ULTRA(R) systems in China.

“We are very pleased to be adding this Canadian utility to the ranks of Fuel Tech’s air pollution control clients,” commented John F. Norris Jr., President and Chief Executive Officer. “This announcement represents our first air pollution control project in Canada and, as such, we hope to build on this initiative where appropriate.”

Mr. Norris continued, “We are also delighted to be announcing new business in France, where all municipal solid waste incinerators will be required to control NOx emissions by the end of 2009. Efforts to secure new MSW business in France and elsewhere in Europe are ongoing.”

Mr. Norris concluded, “As regards the mini-SCR system, this contract represents our second such order from this customer, with discussions underway for additional applications.”

About Fuel Tech

Fuel Tech is a leading technology company engaged in the worldwide development, commercialization and application of state-of-the-art proprietary technologies for air pollution control, process optimization, and advanced engineering services. These technologies enable customers to produce both energy and processed materials in a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable manner.

The Company’s nitrogen oxide (NOx) reduction technologies include advanced combustion modification techniques — such as low NOx burners and overfire air systems — and post-combustion NOx control approaches, including NOxOUT(R) and HERT(TM) SNCR systems as well as systems that incorporate NOxOUT CASCADE(R), NOxOUT ULTRA(R), Rich Reagent Injection (RRI) and NOxOUT-SCR(R) processes. These technologies have established Fuel Tech as a leader in NOx reduction, with installations on over 550 units worldwide, where coal, fuel oil, natural gas, municipal waste, biomass, and other fuels are utilized.

The Company’s FUEL CHEM(R) technology revolves around the unique application of chemicals to improve the efficiency, reliability, fuel flexibility and environmental status of combustion units by controlling slagging, fouling, corrosion, opacity and acid plume, as well as the formation of sulfur trioxide, ammonium bisulfate, particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon dioxide and NOx. This technology, in the form of a customizable FUEL CHEM program, is being applied to over 95 combustion units burning a wide variety of fuels including coal, heavy oil, biomass, and municipal waste. A breakdown of the nature of these customer units is posted on the Company’s website.

Fuel Tech also provides a range of combustion optimization services, including airflow testing, coal flow testing and boiler tuning, as well as services to help optimize selective catalytic reduction system performance, including catalyst management services and ammonia injection grid tuning. In addition, flow corrective devices and physical and computational modeling services are available to optimize flue gas distribution and mixing in both power plant and industrial applications.

Many of Fuel Tech’s products and services rely heavily on the Company’s exceptional Computational Fluid Dynamics modeling capabilities, which are enhanced by internally developed, high-end visualization software. These capabilities, coupled with the Company’s innovative technologies and multi-disciplined team approach, enable Fuel Tech to provide practical solutions to some of our customers’ most challenging problems. For more information, visit Fuel Tech’s web site at www.ftek.com.

This press release may contain statements of a forward-looking nature regarding future events. These statements are only predictions and actual events may differ materially. Please refer to documents that Fuel Tech files from time to time with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a discussion of certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements.

    CONTACT:  John P. Graham
              Chief Financial Officer
              (630) 845-4500

              Tracy H. Krumme
              Vice President, Investor Relations
              (203) 425-9830

Categories: Uncategorized

Next Generation Porsche 911 GT3 to Make World Debut in Geneva

January 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

ATLANTA, Jan. 29 /PRNewswire/ — Porsche will launch the fastest, most
powerful 911 GT3 to-date at the Geneva Motor Show on March 3, 2009. The high
performance GT3 is the latest in the new generation 911 series and carries
over a wide range of expertise learned from motorsports — resulting is superb
capabilities both on road and on track.

    (Photo:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090129/CLTH038-a )
    (Photo:http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20090129/CLTH038-b )

New Engine

The 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 raises the performance bar thanks to an increase
in engine size to 3.8 liters and VarioCam technology now on both the intake
and exhaust. The naturally aspirated six-cylinder boxer engine develops 435
bhp, 20 bhp more than its predecessor.

The new, larger engine offers a significant increase in torque at medium
engine speeds, which is particularly important for everyday driving. Track
performance is also improved; the new GT3 accelerates to 60 mph in 4.0 seconds
and reaches a top track speed of 194 mph.

Improved Suspension

Driving dynamics have also been enhanced, and the new GT3 offers even
better grip and stability. Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) has
enabled Porsche’s engineers to make the springs and anti-roll bars stiffer,
thus ensuring even more precise handling in sport mode, while retaining a
level of comfort suitable for everyday use in normal mode. For the first time,
the 911 GT3 comes standard with Porsche Stability Management (PSM), with
suspension mapping mirroring that of the GT2. The driver can disengage both
stability control and traction control in separate steps.

Refined Aerodynamics

At high speeds, aerodynamic improvements have increased downforce at both
the front and rear, more than doubling the effect of the previous GT3. At the
same time, the new aerodynamics package, with larger vents in the front and
rear bumpers gives the GT3 a brand-new look, accentuated by standard bi-xenon
headlights, LED rear light clusters and modified air intakes and outlets.

Innovative Engine Mounts

The new GT3 will be available with new and highly innovative dynamic
engine mounts. Utilizing magnetic fluid, these inventive mounts automatically
stiffen to create a more solid coupling between the engine and chassis when
the car is driven energetically. This provides a sporting, rigid assembly on
fast bends and winding racetracks yet allows for engine isolation and
increased comfort while driving in everyday traffic. Traction is also improved
when accelerating from a standstill.

Upgraded Brakes

With driving dynamics and performance at an even higher level, the brake
system, following a long Porsche tradition, has also been enhanced
accordingly. Brake discs are larger and feature an aluminum hub to reduce
weight. Increased brake ventilation ensures a high level of brake power over
long periods, and the GT3 can also be equipped with PCCB ceramic brakes,
developed specifically for this model.

Creative Front End Lift

A new lift system for the front axle is also available. By utilizing an
on-board air compressor, the front of the car can be raised for steep
driveways or inclines. A the touch of a button raises the front ride height by
30 mm, or 1.18 inches and at speeds up to approximately 30 mph. New, lighter
GT3 specific center lock wheels and ultra-high performance tires round out the
functional and visual enhancement of the GT3.

The 2010 Porsche 911 GT3 will be available in the fall of 2009, MSRP
$112,200 US.

Note: Pictures of the 2010 911 GT3 are available to accredited journalists
on the Porsche press database http://press.porsche.com

About Porsche Cars North America, Inc.

Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), based in Atlanta, Ga., is the
exclusive importer of Porsche sports cars and sport utility vehicles for the
United States. It is a wholly owned, indirect subsidiary of Dr. Ing. h.c. F.
Porsche AG. PCNA employs approximately 180 people who provide Porsche
vehicles, parts, service, marketing and training for its 201 dealers. The
dealers, in turn, provide Porsche owners with best-in-class service.
Throughout its 60-year history, Porsche has developed numerous technologies
that have advanced vehicle performance, improved safety and spurred
environmental innovations within the automotive industry. The company
continues to celebrate its heritage by adding to its long list of motorsports
victories dating back to its first 24 Hours of Le Mans class win in 1951.
Today, with more than 28,000 victories, Porsche is recognized as the world’s
most successful marque in sports car racing. PCNA, which imports the iconic
911 series, the Boxster and Cayman sports cars and Cayenne sport utility
vehicles for the U.S., strives to maintain a standard of excellence,
commitment and distinction synonymous with its brand.

Categories: Uncategorized

British Manufacturers Must Show the World They Mean Business

January 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

POOLE, England, January 29 /PRNewswire/ –

– With Photo

As Lord Mandelson announces a rescue package for the automotive industry,
Zeta’s New Business Manager, Niko Lambert, explains why manufacturers must
re-assert their position in the UK economy.

My view is quite simple; an economy that doesn’t create wealth is in
trouble. Hedge funds and financial services just create an illusion of wealth
that is only sustainable if that wealth relates directly and realistically to
the “real economy”. If most of the workforce is selling financial products,
frying hamburgers, running hedge funds or in the public sector then
eventually the economy will crumble. That’s what has happened.

Manufacturing must re-assert its position in the UK economy and expand.
Britain has to manufacture more of its needs in house. Luckily the UK still
has some great manufacturing companies and those that have embraced modern
technology are doing well. I don’t just mean the plant and machinery; it’s
about branding, customer contact, and the web. Using digital technology to
sell, service, recruit and show the world that British manufacturers are
up-to-date and mean business.

The manufacturing sector can harness innovative design in new green
products. Look at the latest range of cars being produced by BMW. Excellent
products at a premium price built to the highest standards by an EU labour
force. Britain retains a strong worldwide position on the internet. Being
“online” isn’t just about e-commerce, although that’s a massive sector it’s
about management systems, order processing, customer contact, staff
involvement and meaningful business partnerships.

UK based engineering companies that collaborate with overseas partners
yet retain R & D and high tech manufacture in the UK are able to exploit the
best of both worlds. Now is the time to re-balance the emphasis on the
British side of the equation.

Niko Lambert is the New Business Manager at Zeta. To read the original
article, go to http://www.zeta.net/blog/2009/01/british-manufacturers/

About Zeta

Zeta is a leading digital agency specialising in online marketing, design
and development. Its flexible, cost-effective and responsive approach results
in successful campaigns for a diverse range of clients. Visit zeta.net to
find out more.

Note to Editors:

A picture accompanying this release is available through the PA
Photowire. It can be downloaded from http://www.pa-mediapoint.press.net or
viewed at http://www.mediapoint.press.net or http://www.prnewswire.co.uk.

Press Information

For further information on Zeta, its products and services please
contact: Niko Lambert, Zeta, 3 Winchester Place, North Street, Poole, Dorset,
BH15 1NX, UK, Tel: +44(0)1202-237139, Email: niko@zeta.net

Categories: Uncategorized

Catilin Appoints Petrochemical Industry Veteran David Sams as Vice President of Business Development

January 29, 2009 · Leave a Comment

AMES, Iowa, Jan. 28 /PRNewswire/ — Catilin, Inc., a biodiesel technology
company, today announced that David Sams has joined the company as Vice
President of Business Development. Sams brings more than 20 years experience
in the petrochemical manufacturing industry to Catilin and will be responsible
for developing and maintaining Catilin’s partnerships on a world-wide basis.

“Dave Sams brings Catilin not only significant business development
leadership from W.R. Grace and ORYXE Energy, but he also has deep technical
and petrochemical market production insights as an engineer with Shell Oil,”
said Larry Lenhart, President and CEO of Catilin. “With the Obama
Administration’s commitment to biofuels, the timing could not be better to
welcome Dave to our leadership team.”

Sams has held executive positions at WR Grace and ORYXE Energy leading
sales and business development activities across the globe. Most recently he
was Senior Vice President of Supply and Marketing at ORYXE Energy, a
clean-tech venture-backed company. He has also held engineering leadership
positions for Shell Oil.

On Catilin, Sams said: “I look forward to working with the Catilin team,
its customers and partners. It is a dynamic time in the marketplace, driven by
rapid adoption of renewable energy, promising and abundant feedstocks, and
important technological advancements.”

About Catilin

Catilin, Inc. is a technology based company that is revolutionizing
biofuel production. Catilin has developed a unique, new technology for
biodiesel production that greatly reduces the cost of producing a gallon of
biodiesel while creating a superior quality biodiesel and glycerin by-product.
Catilin’s patent-pending non-toxic technology is centered around a family of
solid heterogeneous catalysts that can be easily utilized within existing
production facilities, can be reused multiple times and works with virtually
every biodiesel feedstock source. In addition, several production steps in the
traditional biodiesel production process can be eliminated with Catilin’s
revolutionary technology, making the process both economically and
environmentally more desirable, while producing a more pure biodiesel and a
more pure glycerol side-product.

The pioneering research of Catilin continues to focus on the future of
biodiesel including our DOE-award wining research on algae to biodiesel.

Categories: Uncategorized