Table of Contents

     
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM 10-Q
x
Quarterly Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 For the Quarterly Period Ended February 28,November 30, 2014
Or
o
Transition Report Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d)
of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
 For the Transition Period from _______ to_______
 Commission File Number 0-22496
SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
OREGON 93-0341923
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)
   
299 SW Clay St., Suite 350
Portland, OR
 97201
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)
 (503) 224-9900
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.
Yes  x    No  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Website, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).
Yes  x    No  o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (check one)
Large accelerated filerxAccelerated fileroNon-accelerated fileroSmaller Reporting companyo
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
Yes  o    No  x
The Registrant had 26,324,26826,478,539 shares of Class A common stock, par value of $1.00 per share, and 305,900 shares of Class B common stock, par value of $1.00 per share, outstanding as of March 31, 2014January 5, 2015.

     


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
INDEX
 
 PAGE
 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
  


Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION
ITEM 1.FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (UNAUDITED)
SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)
February 28, 2014 August 31, 2013November 30, 2014 August 31, 2014
Assets      
Current assets:      
Cash and cash equivalents$20,403
 $13,481
$14,666
 $25,672
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,722 and $2,990173,876
 188,270
Inventories, net252,849
 236,049
Accounts receivable, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $2,672 and $2,720155,597
 189,359
Inventories244,268
 216,172
Deferred income taxes3,824
 3,750
10,281
 6,865
Refundable income taxes5,680
 3,521
3,871
 1,756
Prepaid expenses and other current assets21,966
 22,159
21,915
 24,108
Total current assets478,598
 467,230
450,598
 463,932
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $628,127 and $597,989537,187
 564,426
Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation of $669,903 and $659,872507,970
 523,433
Investments in joint venture partnerships14,524
 14,808
15,021
 14,624
Goodwill324,831
 327,264
322,956
 325,903
Intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $13,963 and $14,13911,146
 13,264
Intangibles, net of accumulated amortization of $10,476 and $15,612
8,968
 9,835
Other assets17,483
 18,520
16,663
 17,483
Total assets$1,383,769
 $1,405,512
$1,322,176
 $1,355,210
Liabilities and Equity      
Current liabilities:      
Short-term borrowings$696
 $9,174
$471
 $523
Accounts payable91,771
 96,348
73,558
 103,453
Accrued payroll and related liabilities22,206
 24,002
20,302
 32,127
Environmental liabilities1,096
 754
1,127
 1,062
Accrued income taxes
 388
42
 3,202
Other accrued liabilities37,052
 35,468
39,447
 36,903
Total current liabilities152,821
 166,134
134,947
 177,270
Deferred income taxes24,611
 22,929
25,911
 22,746
Long-term debt, net of current maturities378,217
 372,663
340,355
 318,842
Environmental liabilities, net of current portion48,403
 49,040
47,026
 47,287
Other long-term liabilities12,940
 13,547
13,090
 13,088
Total liabilities616,992
 624,313
561,329
 579,233
Commitments and contingencies (Note 6)
 
Commitments and contingencies (Note 5)
 
Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. (“SSI”) shareholders’ equity:      
Preferred stock – 20,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized, none issued
 

 
Class A common stock – 75,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized, 26,324 and 26,171 shares issued and outstanding26,324
 26,171
Class B common stock – 25,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized, 306 and 393 shares issued and outstanding306
 393
Class A common stock – 75,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized, 26,477 and 26,384 shares issued and outstanding26,477
 26,384
Class B common stock – 25,000 shares $1.00 par value authorized, 306 and 306 shares issued and outstanding306
 306
Additional paid-in capital13,479
 7,476
19,952
 19,164
Retained earnings737,346
 751,879
729,971
 737,571
Accumulated other comprehensive loss(15,959) (9,361)(20,785) (12,641)
Total SSI shareholders’ equity761,496
 776,558
755,921
 770,784
Noncontrolling interests5,281
 4,641
4,926
 5,193
Total equity766,777
 781,199
760,847
 775,977
Total liabilities and equity$1,383,769
 $1,405,512
$1,322,176
 $1,355,210
The accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
are an integral part of these statements.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Unaudited, in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
2014 2013 2014 20132014 2013
Revenues$626,147
 $662,210
 $1,213,891
 $1,255,030
$555,590
 $587,745
Operating expense:          
Cost of goods sold571,140
 600,786
 1,113,558
 1,142,670
510,022
 542,417
Selling, general and administrative45,856
 48,760
 93,406
 96,754
45,367
 47,550
Income from joint ventures(367) (266) (777) (131)(500) (409)
Other asset impairment charges928
 
 928
 
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs2,006
 1,540
 3,819
 3,133
623
 1,812
Operating income6,584
 11,390
 2,957
 12,604
Operating income (loss)78
 (3,625)
Interest expense(2,816) (2,354) (5,517) (4,371)(2,424) (2,702)
Other income (expense), net(142) (49) 33
 271
Income (loss) before income taxes3,626
 8,987
 (2,527) 8,504
Income tax expense(986) (244) (201) (1,205)
Net income (loss)2,640
 8,743
 (2,728) 7,299
Other income, net753
 176
Loss before income taxes(1,593) (6,151)
Income tax (expense) benefit(8) 784
Net loss(1,601) (5,367)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(851) (100) (1,712) (329)(871) (861)
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI$1,789
 $8,643
 $(4,440) $6,970
Net loss attributable to SSI$(2,472) $(6,228)
          
Net income (loss) per share attributable to SSI:       
Net loss per share attributable to SSI:   
Basic$0.07
 $0.32
 $(0.17) $0.26
$(0.09) $(0.23)
Diluted$0.07
 $0.32
 $(0.17) $0.26
$(0.09) $(0.23)
Weighted average number of common shares:          
Basic26,825
 26,640
 26,790
 26,597
26,944
 26,755
Diluted26,947
 26,781
 26,790
 26,751
26,944
 26,755
Dividends declared per common share$0.188
 $0.188
 $0.376
 $0.376
$0.1875
 $0.1875
The accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
are an integral part of these statements.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)LOSS
(Unaudited, in thousands)

 Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,
 2014 2013 2014 2013
Net income (loss)$2,640
 $8,743
 $(2,728) $7,299
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:       
Foreign currency translation adjustments(1)
(5,688) (5,518) (6,579) (6,777)
Cash flow hedges, net(2)
(229) 5
 (108) 22
Pension obligations, net(3)
45
 151
 89
 526
Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax(5,872) (5,362) (6,598)
(6,229)
Comprehensive income (loss)(3,232) 3,381
 (9,326)
1,070
Less amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests:       
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(851) (100) (1,712) (329)
Foreign currency translation adjustment attributable to redeemable noncontrolling interest
 (886) 
 (1,059)
Total amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests(851) (986) (1,712)
(1,388)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to SSI$(4,083) $2,395
 $(11,038)
$(318)
_____________________________
(1)
Net of tax benefit of zero, $(353) thousand, zero and $(444) thousand for each respective period.
(2)
Net of tax expense (benefit) of $(76) thousand, $1 thousand, $(99) thousand and $24 thousand for each respective period.
(3)
Net of tax expense of $26 thousand, $87 thousand, $51 thousand and $303 thousand for each respective period.

 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2014 2013
Net loss$(1,601) $(5,367)
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:   
Foreign currency translation adjustments(7,272) (891)
Cash flow hedges, net(908) 121
Pension obligations, net36
 44
Total other comprehensive loss, net of tax(8,144) (726)
Comprehensive loss(9,745) (6,093)
Less net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(871) (861)
Comprehensive loss attributable to SSI$(10,616) $(6,954)
The accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
are an integral part of these statements.


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited, in thousands)
Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
2014 20132014 2013
Cash flows from operating activities:      
Net income (loss)$(2,728) $7,299
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by
(used in) operating activities:
   
Other asset impairment charges928
 
Exit-related asset impairment charges566
 
Net loss$(1,601) $(5,367)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to cash (used in) provided by
operating activities:
   
Depreciation and amortization41,047
 41,573
18,883
 21,019
Deferred income taxes1,803
 2,919
101
 (317)
Undistributed equity in earnings of joint ventures(777) (349)(500) (409)
Share-based compensation expense7,180
 7,156
2,932
 3,868
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements(54) 
(65) (20)
(Gain) loss on disposal of assets(66) 188
Unrealized foreign exchange loss, net808
 469
Gain on disposal of assets(436) (304)
Unrealized foreign exchange (gain) loss, net(454) 342
Bad debt expense (recoveries), net400
 (572)(19) 856
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions:      
Accounts receivable5,342
 (32,168)30,577
 57,375
Inventories(7,581) (45,736)(25,774) (39,083)
Income taxes(3,284) 825
(6,074) (1,949)
Prepaid expenses and other current assets1,464
 (11,312)2,391
 (181)
Intangibles and other long-term assets273
 378
179
 90
Accounts payable1,758
 (10,595)(24,851) (4,404)
Accrued payroll and related liabilities(1,771) 511
(11,722) (4,284)
Other accrued liabilities(115) (5,366)260
 (1,730)
Environmental liabilities(337) 21
350
 (306)
Other long-term liabilities(198) (315)(376) 2
Distributed equity in earnings of joint ventures1,040
 1,279
145
 645
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities45,698
 (43,795)
Net cash (used in) provided by operating activities(16,054) 25,843
Cash flows from investing activities:      
Capital expenditures(21,064) (47,823)(10,027) (14,380)
Joint venture payments, net(1,468) (510)
 (63)
Proceeds from sale of assets635
 711
883
 673
Acquisitions, net of cash acquired(2,160) (22,667)
 (2,147)
Net cash used in investing activities(24,057) (70,289)(9,144) (15,917)
Cash flows from financing activities:      
Proceeds from line of credit257,500
 315,000
48,000
 147,500
Repayment of line of credit(266,000) (315,000)(48,000) (156,000)
Borrowings from long-term debt185,027
 158,324
70,848
 119,269
Repayment of long-term debt(180,477) (94,987)(49,192) (98,472)
Taxes paid related to net share settlement of share-based payment arrangements(676) (1,161)(1,343) (628)
Excess tax benefit from share-based payment arrangements54
 
65
 20
Stock options exercised240
 300

 11
Contributions from noncontrolling interest
 1,970
Distributions to noncontrolling interest(1,072) (1,002)(1,138) (495)
Dividends paid(9,983) (4,952)(5,063) (4,990)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities(15,387) 58,492
Net cash provided by financing activities14,177
 6,215
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash668
 269
15
 312
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents6,922
 (55,323)
Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents(11,006) 16,453
Cash and cash equivalents as of beginning of period13,481
 89,863
25,672
 13,481
Cash and cash equivalents as of end of period$20,403
 $34,540
$14,666
 $29,934

The accompanying Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
are an integral part of these statements.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation
The accompanying Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. (the “Company”) have been prepared pursuant to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) for interim financial information and the rules and regulations of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for Form 10-Q, including Article 10 of Regulation S-X. The year-end condensed consolidated balance sheet data was derived from audited financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by U.S. GAAP. Certain information and note disclosures normally included in annual financial statements have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC. In the opinion of management, all normal, recurring adjustments considered necessary for a fair statement have been included. Management suggests that these Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes thereto included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 20132014. The results for the three and six months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results of operations for the entire fiscal year.
Revision of Previously Issued Financial Statements
In the first quarter of fiscal 2014, an error was identified in the classification of the cash outflow of $24.7 million for the purchase of a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary as a use of cash in investing activities that, under generally accepted accounting principles, should have been reflected as a use of cash in financing activities in the Company’s consolidated statements of cash flows included in the previously reported financial statements for the nine months ended May 31, 2013 included in the Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and for the year ended August 31, 2013 included in the 2013 Annual Report on Form 10-K.
The Company assessed the materiality of this classification error under the guidance in ASC 250-10 relating to SEC’s Staff Accounting Bulletin (“SAB”) No. 99, Materiality, and concluded that the previously issued financial statements for the nine months ended May 31, 2013 and the year ended August 31, 2013 were not materially misstated. The Company also evaluated the impact of correcting the error through an adjustment to its financial statements and concluded, based on the guidance within ASC 250-10 relating to SAB No. 108, Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements, to revise its previously issued financial statements to reflect the impact of the correction of the classification error. The consolidated statements of cash flows for the year ended August 31, 2013 and for the nine months ended May 31, 2013 will be revised in the Company’s 2014 Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the third quarter of fiscal 2014, respectively, to correct the classification error.
The revision had no impact on the Company’s consolidated balance sheets, consolidated results of operations, earnings (loss) per share and net cash provided by operating activities in the consolidated statements of cash flows.
The effect of the revision on the line items within the Company’s consolidated statement of cash flows for the nine months ended May 31, 2013 and the year ended August 31, 2013 is as follows (in thousands):
 Nine Months Ended May 31, 2013 Year Ended August 31, 2013
 As Reported Adjustments As Revised As Reported Adjustments As Revised
Investing Activities           
Purchase of noncontrolling interest$(24,734) $24,734
 $
 $(24,734) $24,734
 $
Net cash used in investing activities(115,089) 24,734
 (90,355) (137,184) 24,734
 (112,450)
            
Financing Activities           
Purchase of noncontrolling interest
 (24,734) (24,734) 
 (24,734) (24,734)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing
activities
60,023
 (24,734) 35,289
 20,587
 (24,734) (4,147)



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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Accounting Changes
In FebruaryJuly 2013, an accounting standards update was issued that amendsclarifies the financial statement presentation of certain unrecognized tax benefits. The amendments require that an unrecognized tax benefit be presented as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward, except to the extent that such carryforwards and losses are not available at the reporting date under the tax law of amounts reclassified outthe applicable jurisdiction to settle any additional income taxes that would result from the disallowance of accumulated other comprehensive income. This standarda tax position, or the tax law of the applicable jurisdiction does not changerequire the current requirementsentity to use, and the entity does not intend to use, the deferred tax asset for reporting net income or other comprehensive incomesuch purpose, in which case the unrecognized tax benefit should be presented in the financial statements. However, the guidance requires an entity to provide information about the amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income by component, either on the face of the financial statement where net income is presented or in the notes to the financial statements.statements as a liability. The Company adopted the new requirement in the first quarter of fiscal 20142015 with no significant impact to the Company’s Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, except for the change in presentation. The Company has chosen to present amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income in the notes to the financial statements. See Note 10 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss for further detail.
During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company elected to change its annual goodwill impairment testing date from February 28 to July 1 of each year. See Note 4 - Goodwill for further detail.Statements.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include short-term securities that are not restricted by third parties and have an original maturity date of 90 days or less. Included in accounts payable are book overdrafts representing outstanding checks in excess of funds on deposit of $31$18 million and $35 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014., respectively.
Other Assets
The Company’s other assets, exclusive of prepaid expenses, consist primarily of receivables from insurers, notes and other contractual receivables, and assets held for sale. Other assets are reported within either prepaid expenses and other current assets or other assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets based on their expected use either during or beyond the current operating cycle of one year from the reporting date. OtherAs of August 31, 2014, other assets arewere reported net of an allowance for credit losses on notes and other contractual receivables of $8 million. During the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the contractual receivables against which the $8 million as of February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013.

allowance for credit losses was recorded were written off. As of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 2013,2014, the Company reported $4 million and $3 million of assets held for sale within prepaid expenses and other current assets in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets. During the second quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company recorded impairment charges for the initial and subsequent write-down of certain equipment held for sale to its fair value less cost to sell of $1 million, which are reported within other asset impairment charges in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations. The Company determined fair value using Level 3 inputs under the fair value hierarchy consisting of information provided by brokers and other external sources along with management's own assumptions. See Note 11 - Fair Value Measurements for further detail.
Derivative Financial Instruments
The Company records derivative instruments in prepaid expenses and other current assets or other accrued liabilities in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, and changes in the fair value are either recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)Loss or net income (loss) in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations, as applicable, depending on the nature of the underlying exposure, whether the derivative has been designated as a hedge and, if designated as a hedge, the extent to which the hedge is effective. Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)loss are reclassified to earnings in the period in which earnings are impacted by the hedged items, in the period that the hedged transaction is deemed no longer likely to occur, or in the period that the derivative is terminated. For cash flow hedges, a formal assessment is made, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, to determine whether the derivatives that are designated as hedging instruments have been highly effective in offsetting changes in the cash flows of hedged items and whether those derivatives may be expected to remain highly effective in future periods. To the extent the hedge is determined to be ineffective, the ineffective portion is immediately recognized in earnings. When available, quoted market prices or prices obtained through external sources are used to measure a derivative instrument’s fair value. The fair value of these

7

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

instruments is a function of underlying forward commodity prices or foreign currency exchange rates, related volatility, counterparty creditworthiness and duration of the contracts. Cash flows from derivatives are recognized in the Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in a manner consistent with the underlying transactions. See Note 11 - Fair Value Measurements and Note 129 - Derivative Financial Instruments for further detail.
Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to significant concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, notes and other contractual receivables and derivative financial instruments. The majority of cash and cash equivalents are maintained with two major financial institutions (Bank of America and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.). Balances inwith these institutions exceeded the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation insured amount of $250,000 as of February 28,November 30, 2014. Concentration of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable is limited because a large number of geographically diverse customers make up the Company’s customer base. The Company controls credit risk through credit approvals, credit limits, letters of credit or other collateral, cash deposits and monitoring procedures. The Company is exposed to a residual credit risk with respect

8

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

to open letters of credit by virtue of the possibility of the failure of a bank providing a letter of credit. The Company had $64$70 million and $94$74 million of open letters of credit relating to accounts receivable as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014, respectively. The counterparties to the Company's derivative financial instruments are major financial institutions.
Financial Instruments
The Company’s financial instruments include cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, debt and derivative contracts. The Company uses the market approach to value its financial assets and liabilities, determined using available market information. The net carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable and accounts payable approximate fair value due to the short-term nature of these instruments. For long-term debt, which is primarily at variable interest rates, fair value is estimated using observable inputs (Level 2) and approximates its carrying value. Derivative contracts are reported at fair value. See Note 11 - Fair Value Measurements and Note 129 - Derivative Financial Instruments for further detail.
Fair Value Measurements
Fair value is measured using inputs from the three levels of the fair value hierarchy. Classification within the hierarchy is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The three levels are described as follows:
Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.
Level 2 – Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the determination of the fair value of the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly.
Level 3 – Unobservable inputs that are significant to the determination of the fair value of the asset or liability.

When developing the fair value measurements, the Company uses quoted market prices whenever available or seeks to maximize the use of observable inputs and minimize the use of unobservable inputs when quoted market prices are not available. See Note 11 - Fair Value Measurements for further detail.
Restructuring Charges
Restructuring charges consist of severance, contract termination and other restructuring-related costs. A liability for severance costs is typically recognized when the plan of termination has been communicated to the affected employees and is measured at its fair value at the communication date. Contract termination costs consist primarily of costs that will continue to be incurred under operating leases for their remaining terms without economic benefit to the Company. A liability for contract termination costs is recognized at the date the Company ceases using the rights conveyed by the lease contract and is measured at its fair value, which is determined based on the remaining contractual lease rentals reduced by estimated sublease rentals. A liability for other restructuringrestructuring-related costs is measured at its fair value in the period in which the liability is incurred. See Note 76 - Restructuring Charges and Other Exit-Related Costs for further detail.
Employee Benefits
Prior to October 1, 2013, the Steelworkers Western Independent Shops Pension Plan (“WISPP”), a multiemployer plan benefiting union employees of the Steel Manufacturing Business, had an accumulated funding deficiency (i.e., a failure to satisfy the minimum funding requirements) and was certified in a Red Zone Status, as defined by the Pension Protection Act of 2006.  As of October 1, 2013, the WISPP was no longer in Red Zone Status, having been certified by the plan’s actuaries as being in the Green Zone.

Note 2 - Inventories, netRecent Accounting Pronouncements

Inventories, net consistedIn April 2014, an accounting standard update was issued that amends the requirements for reporting discontinued operations, which may include a component of an entity or a group of components of an entity. The amendments limit discontinued operations reporting to disposals of components of an entity that represent strategic shifts that have, or will have, a major effect on an entity's operations and financial results. The amendments require expanded disclosure about the following (in thousands):
 February 28, 2014 August 31, 2013
Processed and unprocessed scrap metal$139,729
 $132,485
Semi-finished goods (billets)13,185
 10,745
Finished goods62,341
 56,830
Supplies37,594
 35,989
Inventories, net$252,849
 $236,049

assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of discontinued operations. Further, the amendments require an entity to disclose the pretax profit or loss of an individually significant component that is being disposed of that does not qualify for discontinued operations reporting. The standard is applicable to the Company and is to be applied prospectively to all disposals or classifications as held for sale of components that occur

98

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 3 - Business Combinations

In November 2013, the Company acquired all of the equity interests of Pick A Part, Inc., a used auto parts business with one storebeginning in the Olympia metropolitan area in Washington, which expanded the Auto Parts Business’ presence in the Pacific Northwest and is near the Metals Recycling Business’ operations in Tacoma, Washington. The acquisition was not material to the Company’s financial position or results of operations. Pro forma operating results for the acquisition are not presented, since the aggregate results would not be significantly different than reported results.

Note 4 - Goodwill
During the first quarter of fiscal 2014,2016, and interim periods within that fiscal year, and all businesses that, on acquisition, are classified as held for sale that occur beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2016, and interim periods within that fiscal year. Upon adoption, the standard will impact how the Company changed its annual goodwill impairment testingassesses and reports discontinued operations.
In May 2014, an accounting standard update was issued that clarifies the principles for recognizing revenue. The guidance is applicable to all contracts with customers regardless of industry-specific or transaction-specific fact patterns. Further, the guidance requires improved disclosures to help users of financial statements better understand the nature, amount, timing, and uncertainty of revenue that is recognized. The standard is effective for the Company beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2018, including interim periods within that fiscal year. Early application is not permitted. Upon becoming effective, the Company will apply the amendments in the updated standard either retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented, or retrospectively with the cumulative effect of initially applying the guidance recognized at the date from February 28 to July 1 of each year.initial application. The Company believesis evaluating the impact of adopting this new testing date is preferable because it allowsstandard on its consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
Note 3 - Inventories

Inventories consisted of the Company to better align the annual goodwill impairment testing procedures with the Company’s year-end financial reporting as well as its annual budgeting cycle and allows the Company visibility into fourth quarter operating results which are typically significant to its annual performance. following (in thousands):
 November 30, 2014 August 31, 2014
Processed and unprocessed scrap metal$129,294
 $106,877
Semi-finished goods (billets)11,875
 12,920
Finished goods64,460
 59,039
Supplies38,639
 37,336
Inventories$244,268
 $216,172

Note 4 - Goodwill

The Company most recently performed an assessment oftests the goodwill in each of its reporting units duringannually on July 1 and upon the fourth quarteroccurrence of fiscal 2013. This changecertain triggering events or substantive changes in accounting principle did not delay, accelerate or causecircumstances that indicate that the Company to avoid an impairment charge. As a resultfair value of this change, the Company will complete its next annual goodwill impairment test during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014.

may be impaired. There were no triggering events identified during the first or second quartersquarter of fiscal 20142015 requiring an interim goodwill impairment test of our reporting units. Additional sustained declines in or atest. A lack of recovery inof market conditions in the metals recycling industry from current levels, a sustained trend of weaker than anticipated Company financial performance including the pace and extent of operating margin and volume recovery, a sustainedlack of recovery or further decline in the Company’s share price from current levels for a sustained period of time, or an increase in the market-based weighted-averageweighted average cost of capital, among other factors, could significantly impact the impairment analysis and may result in future goodwill impairment charges that, if incurred, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition and results of operations.

The gross changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by reporting segment for the sixthree months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 were as follows (in thousands):
 Metals Recycling Business Auto Parts Business Total
Balance as of August 31, 2013$147,213
 $180,051
 $327,264
Acquisitions
 586
 586
Acquisition accounting adjustments
 (51) (51)
Foreign currency translation adjustment(1,730) (1,238) (2,968)
Balance as of February 28, 2014$145,483
 $179,348
 $324,831
 Metals Recycling Business Auto Parts Business Total
Balance as of August 31, 2014$146,108
 $179,795
 325,903
Foreign currency translation adjustment(1,717) (1,230) (2,947)
Balance as of November 30, 2014$144,391
 $178,565
 $322,956

Accumulated goodwill impairment charges were $321$321 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 2013.2014.

Note 5 - Short-Term Borrowings

The Company has an unsecured, uncommitted $25 million credit line with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. As of March 1, 2014, the term of this credit facility was renewed and extended to March 1, 2015. Interest rates are set by the bank at the time of borrowing. The Company had zero and $9 million in borrowings outstanding under this credit line as of February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013. The credit agreement contains various representations and warranties, events of default and financial and other covenants, including covenants regarding maintenance of a minimum fixed charge ratio and a maximum leverage ratio.

Note 65 - Commitments and Contingencies

The Company evaluates the adequacy of its environmental liabilities on a quarterly basis. Adjustments to the liabilities are made when additional information becomes available that affects the estimated costs to study or remediate any environmental issues or expenditures are made for which liabilities were established.


109

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Changes in the Company’s environmental liabilities for the sixthree months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 were as follows (in thousands):
Reporting Segment Balance as of August 31, 2013 Liabilities Established (Released), Net Payments and Other Balance as of February 28, 2014 Short-Term Long-Term Balance as of August 31, 2014 Liabilities Established (Released), Net Payments and Other Balance as of November 30, 2014 Short-Term Long-Term
Metals Recycling Business $30,520
 $(312) $(231) $29,977
 $345
 $29,632
 $30,139
 $195
 $(331) $30,003
 $496
 $29,507
Auto Parts Business 18,774
 373
 (120) 19,027
 556
 18,471
 17,822
 
 (49) 17,773
 554
 17,219
Corporate 500
 
 (5) 495
 195
 300
 388
 
 (11) 377
 77
 300
Total $49,794
 $61
 $(356) $49,499
 $1,096
 $48,403
 $48,349
 $195
 $(391) $48,153
 $1,127
 $47,026

Metals Recycling Business (“MRB”)
As of February 28,November 30, 2014, MRB had environmental liabilities of $30$30 million for the potential remediation of locations where it has conducted business and has environmental liabilities from historical or recent activities.
 
Portland Harbor
In December 2000, the Company was notified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (“CERCLA”) that it is one of the potentially responsible parties (“PRPs”) that own or operate or formerly owned or operated sites which are part of or adjacent to the Portland Harbor Superfund site (the “Site”). The precise nature and extent of any cleanup of the Site, the parties to be involved, the process to be followed for any cleanup and the allocation of the costs for any cleanup among responsible parties have not yet been determined, but the process of identifying additional PRPs and beginning allocation of costs is underway. It is unclear to what extent the Company will be liable for environmental costs or natural resource damage claims or third party contribution or damage claims with respect to the Site. While the Company participated in certain preliminary Site study efforts, it is not party to the consent order entered into by the EPA with certain other PRPs, referred to as the “Lower Willamette Group” (“LWG”), for a remedial investigation/feasibility study (“RI/FS”).

During fiscal 2007, the Company and certain other parties agreed to an interim settlement with the LWG under which the Company made a cash contribution to the LWG RI/FS. The Company has also joined with more than 80 other PRPs, including the LWG, in a voluntary process to establish an allocation of costs at the Site. These parties have selected an allocation team and have entered into an allocation process design agreement. The LWG has also commenced federal court litigation, which has been stayed, seeking to bring additional parties into the allocation process.

In January 2008, the Natural Resource Damages Trustee Council (“Trustees”) for Portland Harbor invited the Company and other PRPs to participate in funding and implementing the Natural Resource Injury Assessment for the Site. Following meetings among the Trustees and the PRPs, a funding and participation agreement was negotiated under which the participating PRPs agreed to fund the first phase of the natural resource damage assessment. The Company joined in that Phase I agreement and paid a portion of those costs. The Company did not participate in funding the second phase of the natural resource damage assessment.

On March 30, 2012, the LWG submitted to the EPA and made available on its website a draft feasibility study (“draft FS”) for the Site based on approximately ten years of work and $100 million in costs classified by the LWG as investigation related. The draft FS identifies ten possible remedial alternatives which range in estimated cost from approximately $170 million to $250 million (net present value) for the least costly alternative to approximately $1.08 billion to $1.76 billion (net present value) for the most costly and estimates a range of two to 28 years to implement the remedial work, depending on the selected alternative. The draft FS does not determine who is responsible for remediation costs, define the precise cleanup boundaries or select remedies. The draft FS is being reviewedrevised by the EPA and is likely to be subject tothe revisions which couldmay be significant prior to its approval byand could materially impact the EPA.scope or cost of remediation. While the draft FS is an important step in the EPA’s development of a proposed plan for addressing the Site, a final decision on the nature and extent of the required remediation will occur only after the EPA has prepared a proposed plan for public review and issued a record of decision (“ROD”). Currently available information indicates that the EPA does not expect to issue its final ROD selecting a remedy for the Site until at least 2016.2017 or commence remediation activities until 2024. Responsibility for implementing and funding the EPA’s selected remedy will be determined in a separate allocation process, which is currently underway.

Because there has not been a determination of the total cost of the investigations, the remediation that will be required, the amount of natural resource damages or how the costs of the ongoing investigations and any remedy and natural resource damages will be allocated among the PRPs, the Company believes it is not possible to reasonably estimate the amount or range of costs which it is likely or reasonably possible that the Company may incur in connection with the Site, although such costs could be material to the Company’s financial position, results of operations, cash flows and liquidity. Among the facts currently not known or available

1110

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

are detailed information on the history of ownership of and the nature of the uses of and activities and operations performed on each property within the Site, which are factors that will play a substantial role in determining the allocation of investigation and remedy costs among the PRPs. The Company has insurance policies that it believes will provide reimbursement for costs it incurs for defense and remediation in connection with the Site, although there is no assurance that those policies will cover all of the costs which the Company may incur. The Company previously recorded a liability for its estimated share of the costs of the investigation of $1 million.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is separately providing oversight of voluntary investigations by the Company involving the Company’s sites adjacent to the Portland Harbor which are focused on controlling any current “uplands” releases of contaminants into the Willamette River. No liabilities have been established in connection with these investigations because the extent of contamination (if any) and the Company’s responsibility for the contamination (if any) has not yet been determined.

Other MRB Sites
As of February 28,November 30, 2014, the Company had environmental liabilities related to various MRB sites other than Portland Harbor of $29 million.$29 million. The liabilities relate to the potential future remediation of soil contamination, groundwater contamination and storm water runoff issues and were not individually material at any site.

Auto Parts Business (“APB”)
As of February 28,November 30, 2014, the Company had environmental liabilities related to various APB sites of $19 million.$18 million. The liabilities relate to the potential future remediation of soil contamination, groundwater contamination and storm water runoff issues and were not individually material at any site.

Steel Manufacturing Business (“SMB”)
SMB’s electric arc furnace generates dust (“EAF dust”) that is classified as hazardous waste by the EPA because of its zinc and lead content. As a result, the Company captures the EAF dust and ships it in specialized rail cars to a firm that applies a treatment that allows the EAF dust to be delisted as hazardous waste so it can be disposed of as a non-hazardous solid waste.

SMB has an operating permit issued under Title V of the Clean Air Act Amendments of 1990, which governs certain air quality standards. The permit is based on an annual production capacity of 950 thousand tons. The permit was first issued in 1998 and has since been renewed through February 1, 2018.
 
SMB had no environmental liabilities as of February 28,November 30, 2014.

Other than the Portland Harbor Superfund site, which is discussed above, management currently believes that adequate provision has been made for the potential impact of these issues and that the ultimate outcomes will not have a material adverse effect on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements of the Company as a whole. Historically, the amounts the Company has ultimately paid for such remediation activities have not been material in any given period.

In addition, the Company is party to various legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business. Management believes that adequate provisions have been made for these contingencies. The Company does not anticipate that the resolution of legal proceedings arising in the normal course of business will have a material adverse effect on its results of operations, financial condition, or cash flows.
 
Note 76 - Restructuring Charges and Other Exit-Related Costs

In the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012, the Company announced and undertook a number of restructuring initiatives designed to extract greater synergies from the significant acquisitions and technology investments made in recent years, achieve further integration between MRB and APB, and realign the Company’s organization to support its future growth and decrease operating expenses by streamlining functions and reducing organizational layers. These initiatives were substantially completed by the end of fiscal 2013.layers (the “Q4'12 Plan”).

In the first quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company announced and began implementing additional restructuring initiatives to further reduce its annual operating expenses through headcount reductions, productivity improvements, procurement savings and other operational efficiencies. The Company expects to incur restructuring charges of $5 million in connection with these initiatives, with substantially all ofefficiencies (the “Q1'14 Plan”).

In the charges expected to be incurred by the endfirst quarter of fiscal 2014. The vast majority of the restructuring charges will require2015, the Company announced and began implementing additional productivity initiatives at APB to make cash payments.

improve profitability through a combination of revenue drivers and cost reduction initiatives (the “Q1'15 Plan”).

1211

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


In addition to the restructuring charges recorded in connection with these initiatives, the Company incurred other exit-related costs consisting of asset impairments related to site closures. The Company did not incur other exit-related costs during the three months ended November 30, 2014 and 2013.

Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs were comprised of the following (in thousands):
Three Months Ended February 28, 2014 Three Months Ended February 28, 2013Three Months Ended November 30, 2014 Three Months Ended November 30, 2013
Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total Charges Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total ChargesQ1’14 Plan Q1’15 Plan Total Charges Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total Charges
Restructuring charges:                      
Severance costs$(39) $1,182
 $1,143
 $116
 $
 $116
$27
 $
 $27
 $26
 $1,076
 $1,102
Contract termination costs106
 (9) 97
 19
 
 19
253
 
 253
 462
 38
 500
Other restructuring costs
 200
 200
 1,405
 
 1,405

 343
 343
 
 210
 210
Total restructuring charges67
 1,373
 1,440
 1,540
 
 1,540
$280
 $343
 $623
 $488
 $1,324
 $1,812
Other exit-related costs:           
Asset impairments$
 $566
 $566
 $
 $
 $
Total exit-related costs
 566
 566
 
 
 
Total restructuring charges and exit-related costs$67
 $1,939
 $2,006
 $1,540
 $
 $1,540
 Six Months Ended February 28, 2014 Six Months Ended February 28, 2013
 Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total Charges Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total Charges
Restructuring charges:           
Severance costs$(13) $2,259
 $2,246
 $1,055
 $
 $1,055
Contract termination costs568
 29
 597
 24
 
 24
Other restructuring costs
 410
 410
 2,054
 
 2,054
Total restructuring charges555
 2,698
 3,253
 3,133
 
 3,133
Other exit-related costs:           
Asset impairments$
 $566
 $566
 $
 $
 $
Total exit-related costs
 566
 566
 
 
 
Total restructuring charges and exit-related costs$555
 $3,264
 $3,819
 $3,133
 $
 $3,133
Total ChargesTotal Charges
Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan TotalQ4'12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Q1'15 Plan Total
Total restructuring charges to date$13,473
 $2,698
 $16,171
$13,549
 $6,050
 $343
 $19,942
Total expected restructuring charges$13,500
 $5,200
 $18,700
$13,550
 $6,150
 $2,200
 $21,900

The following illustrates the reconciliation of the restructuring liability by major type of costs for the sixthree months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 (in thousands):
Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total Charges to Date Total Expected ChargesQ1’14 Plan Q1’15 Plan All Plans
Balance 8/31/2013 Charges Payments and Other Balance 2/28/2014 Balance 8/31/2013 Charges Payments and Other Balance 2/28/2014 Balance 8/31/2014 Charges Payments and Other Balance 11/30/2014 Balance 8/31/2014 Charges Payments and Other Balance 11/30/2014 Total Charges to Date Total Expected Charges
Severance costs$278
 $(13) $(227) $38
 $
 $2,259
 $(1,300) $959
 $7,430
 $9,600
$669
 $27
 $(294) $402
 $
 $
 $
 $
 $9,818
 $10,700
Contract termination costs3,027
 568
 (1,835) 1,760
 
 29
 (6) 23
 4,266
 4,600
500
 253
 (167) 586
 
 
 
 
 5,306
 5,400
Other restructuring costs
 
 
 
 
 410
 (410) 
 4,475
 4,500

 
 
 
 
 343
 
 343
 4,818
 5,800
Total$3,305
 $555
 $(2,062) $1,798
 $
 $2,698
 $(1,716) $982
 $16,171
 $18,700
$1,169
 $280
 $(461) $988
 $
 $343
 $
 $343
 $19,942
 $21,900


13

The Q4'12 Plan was substantially completed in fiscal 2014 and all further activity is immaterial. As of November 30, 2014 and August 31, 2014, the restructuring liability for the Q4'12 Plan was $1 million and related to contract terminations.
SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The amounts of restructuring charges and other exit-related costs relating to each segment were as follows (in thousands):
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28, 
Total Charges
to Date
 Total Expected ChargesThree Months Ended November 30, 
Total Charges
to Date
 Total Expected Charges
2014 2013 2014 2013 2014 2013 
Restructuring charges:                  
Metals Recycling Business$860
 $60
 $2,152
 $610
 $6,560
 $8,100
$255
 $1,291
 $8,934
 $9,000
Auto Parts Business435
 24
 496
 211
 968
 1,500
374
 61
 1,903
 3,750
Unallocated (Corporate)145
 1,456
 605
 2,312
 8,643
 9,100
(6) 460
 9,105
 9,150
Total restructuring charges1,440
 1,540
 3,253
 3,133
 16,171
 18,700
623
 1,812
 19,942
 21,900
Other exit-related costs:                  
Metals Recycling Business566
 
 566
 
 566
  
 
 566
  
Total exit-related costs566
 
 566
 
 566
  
 
 566
  
Total restructuring charges and other exit-related costs2,006
 1,540
 3,819
 3,133
 16,737
  $623
 $1,812
 $20,508
  
The Company does not allocate restructuring charges and other exit-related costs to the segments’ operating results because management does not include this information in its measurement of the performance of the operating segments.

Note 8 - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest

In March 2011, the Company, through a wholly-owned acquisition subsidiary, acquired substantially all of the metals recycling assets of a Canadian business. As part of the purchase consideration, the Company issued the seller common shares equal to 20% of the issued and outstanding capital stock of the Company’s acquisition subsidiary. Under the terms of an agreement related to the acquisition, the noncontrolling interest holder had the right to require the Company to purchase its interest in the Company’s acquisition subsidiary for fair value upon the occurrence of certain triggering events.

On March 8, 2013, the Company entered into an agreement with the noncontrolling interest holder for the purchase of all of the outstanding noncontrolling interest in the Company’s subsidiary for $25 million. In the second quarter of fiscal 2013, the Company adjusted the redeemable noncontrolling interest to its fair value corresponding to the purchase price of $25 million. Prior to its purchase, the noncontrolling interest was presented at its adjusted carrying value, which approximated its fair value. The Company determined fair value using Level 3 inputs under the fair value hierarchy using an income approach based on a discounted cash flow analysis.

Following is a reconciliation of the changes in the redeemable noncontrolling interest for the six months ended February 28, 2013 (in thousands):
 Fiscal 2013
Balances - September 1 (Beginning of period)$22,248
Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interest(903)
Currency translation adjustment(1,059)
Capital contributions from noncontrolling interest holder1,970
Adjustment to fair value2,504
Balances - February 28 (End of period)$24,760


1412

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 97 - Changes in Equity
 
The following is a summary of the changes in equity for the sixthree months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013 (in thousands):
Fiscal 2014 Fiscal 2013Fiscal 2015 Fiscal 2014
SSI Shareholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Total
Equity
 
SSI Shareholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Total
Equity
SSI Shareholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Total
Equity
 
SSI Shareholders’
Equity
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
Total
Equity
Balances - September 1 (Beginning of period)$776,558
 $4,641
 $781,199
 $1,080,583
 $5,113
 $1,085,696
Balance - September 1 (Beginning of period)$770,784
 $5,193
 $775,977
 $776,558
 $4,641
 $781,199
Net income (loss) (1)
(4,440) 1,712
 (2,728) 6,970
 1,232
 8,202
(2,472) 871
 (1,601) (6,228) 861
 (5,367)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax(2)
(6,598) 
 (6,598) (7,288) 
 (7,288)(8,144) 
 (8,144) (726) 
 (726)
Distributions to noncontrolling interests
 (1,072) (1,072) 
 (1,002) (1,002)
 (1,138) (1,138) 
 (495) (495)
Restricted stock withheld for taxes(676) 
 (676) (1,161) 
 (1,161)(1,343) 
 (1,343) (628) 
 (628)
Stock options exercised240
 
 240
 300
 
 300

 
 
 11
 
 11
Share-based compensation7,180
 
 7,180
 7,156
 
 7,156
2,932
 
 2,932
 3,868
 
 3,868
Excess tax deficiency from stock options exercised and restricted stock units vested(674) 
 (674) (852) 
 (852)(708) 
 (708) (589) 
 (589)
Adjustments to fair value of redeemable noncontrolling interest
 
 
 (2,504) 
 (2,504)
Cash dividends(10,094) 
 (10,094) (9,915) 
 (9,915)
Balances - February 28 (End of period)$761,496
 $5,281
 $766,777
 $1,073,289
 $5,343
 $1,078,632
Dividends(5,128) 
 (5,128) (5,002) 
 (5,002)
Balance - November 30 (End of period)$755,921
 $4,926
 $760,847
 $767,264
 $5,007
 $772,271
_____________________________
(1)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests for the six months ended February 28, 2013 excludes net losses of $(903) thousand allocable to the redeemable noncontrolling interest. See Note 8 - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest.
(2)
Other comprehensive loss, net of tax for the six months ended February 28, 2013 excludes $(1) million relating to foreign currency translation adjustments for the redeemable noncontrolling interest. See Note 8 - Redeemable Noncontrolling Interest.

Note 108 - Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss

Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, for the three months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Pension Obligations, net Net Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Cash Flow Hedges TotalFiscal 2015 Fiscal 2014
Balance as of November 30, 2013$(7,314) $(2,773) $
 $(10,087)
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Pension Obligations, net Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedges Total Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Pension Obligations, net Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Cash Flow Hedges Total
Balances - September 1 (Beginning of period)$(10,663) $(2,036) $58
 $(12,641) $(6,423) $(2,817) $(121) $(9,361)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications(5,688) 
 (305) (5,993)(7,272) 
 (1,712) (8,984) (891) 
 
 (891)
Income tax benefit
 
 76
 76

 
 428
 428
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax(5,688) 
 (229) (5,917)(7,272) 
 (1,284) (8,556) (891) 
 
 (891)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
 71
 
 71

 49
 501
 550
 
 69
 98
 167
Income tax expense
 (26) 
 (26)
Income tax (benefit) expense
 (13) (125) (138) 
 (25) 23
 (2)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 45
 
 45

 36
 376
 412
 
 44
 121
 165
Net periodic other comprehensive income (loss)(5,688) 45
 (229) (5,872)(7,272) 36
 (908) (8,144) (891) 44
 121
 (726)
Balance as of February 28, 2014$(13,002) $(2,728) $(229) $(15,959)
Balances - November 30 (End of period$(17,935) $(2,000) $(850) $(20,785) $(7,314) $(2,773) $
 $(10,087)

Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss, both individually and in the aggregate, were immaterial to the impacted captions in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.



1513

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Changes in accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax, for the six months ended February 28, 2014 were as follows:
 Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Pension Obligations, net Net Unrealized Gain/(Loss) on Cash Flow Hedges Total
Balance as of August 31, 2013$(6,423) $(2,817) $(121) $(9,361)
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications(6,579) 
 (305) (6,884)
Income tax benefit
 
 76
 76
Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications, net of tax(6,579) 
 (229) (6,808)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss
 140
 98
 238
Income tax (expense) benefit
 (51) 23
 (28)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 89
 121
 210
Net periodic other comprehensive income (loss)(6,579) 89
 (108) (6,598)
Balance as of February 28, 2014$(13,002) $(2,728) $(229) $(15,959)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive loss, both individually and in the aggregate, were immaterial to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations.

Note 11 - Fair Value Measurements

The following table presents information about the Company’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value as of February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013, and indicates the fair value hierarchy of the valuation techniques utilized by the Company and the type of measurement.

(in thousands)Assets (Liabilities) at Fair Value Fair Value Measurement Level Type of Measurement Balance Sheet Classification
 February 28, 2014 August 31, 2013      
Assets:         
Assets held for sale$657
 $2,902
 Level 3 Non-recurring Prepaid expenses and other current assets
Impaired long-lived assets1,000
 
 Level 3 Non-recurring Property, plant and equipment, net
Investment in joint venture partnership
 3,261
 Level 3 Non-recurring Investments in joint venture partnerships
Total assets$1,657
 $6,163
      
Liabilities:         
Contract termination costs$
 $(1,672) Level 3 Non-recurring Other accrued liabilities and Other long-term liabilities
Foreign currency exchange forward contracts(316) 
 Level 2 Recurring Other accrued liabilities
Total liabilities$(316) $(1,672)      

Note 129 - Derivative Financial Instruments

In the second quarter of fiscal 2014, theThe Company entered into a series of foreign currency exchange forward contracts to sell U.S. Dollarsdollars in order to hedge a portion of its exposure to fluctuating rates of exchange on anticipated U.S. Dollar-denominateddollar-denominated sales by its Canadian subsidiary with a functional currency of the Canadian Dollar.dollar. The Company utilized intercompany foreign currency derivatives and offsetting derivatives with external counterparties in order to designate the intercompany derivatives as hedging instruments. Once the U.S. dollar-denominated sales have been recognized and the corresponding receivables collected, the Company utilized foreign currency exchange forward contracts to sell Canadian dollars, achieving a result similar to net settling the contracts to sell U.S. dollars. The foreign currency exchange forward contracts to sell Canadian dollars are not designated as hedging instruments.
As of February 28,November 30, 2014, the Company had six individual foreign currency exchange forward contracts with external counterparties to buy Canadian Dollars for a total notional amount of $41$51 million, which have various settlement dates through September 30, 2015, and foreign currency exchange forward contracts with external counterparties to sell Canadian Dollars for a total notional amount of $6 million, all of which have a settlement date of December 31, 2014. The

16

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

contracts with external counterparties are reported at fair value in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets measured using quoted foreign currency exchange rates. See Note 11 - Fair Value Measurements for further detail.

The fair value of derivative instruments in the Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets areis as follows (in thousands):
 Asset (Liability) Derivatives
   Fair Value
 Balance Sheet Location February 28, 2014 August 31, 2013
Foreign currency exchange forward contractsOther accrued liabilities $(316) $
 Asset (Liability) Derivatives
   Fair Value - Level 2
 Balance Sheet Location November 30, 2014 August 31, 2014
Foreign currency exchange forward contractsPrepaid expenses and other current assets $76
 $202
Foreign currency exchange forward contractsOther accrued liabilities $(1,304) $(46)

The following tabletables summarizes the results of cash flow hedging relationshipsforeign currency exchange derivatives for the three and six months ended February 28November 30, 2014 (in thousands):
 Derivative Gain (Loss) Recognized in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss, net of tax
 Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,
 2014 2013 2014 2013
Foreign currency exchange forward contracts$(229) $
 $(229) $
 Derivative Gain (Loss) Recognized
 Three Months Ended November 30, 2014
 Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Revenues - Effective Portion Other Income (Expense), net
Foreign currency exchange forward contracts - designated as cash flow hedges(1,712) (501) 54
Foreign currency exchange forward contracts - not designated as cash flow hedges
 
 (5)

The Company did not have any material derivatives activity for the three months ended November 30, 2013. There was no hedge ineffectiveness with respect to the forward currency exchange cash flow hedges for the three months ended November 30, 2014.

Note 1310 - Share-Based Compensation

In the first quarter of fiscal 2014,2015, as part of the annual awards under the Company’s Long-Term Incentive Plan, the Compensation Committee of the Company's Board of Directors granted 219,504268,988 restricted stock units (“RSU”RSUs”) and 219,504268,988 performance share awards to the Company's key employees and officers under the Company’s 1993 Amended and Restated Stock Incentive Plan, as amended.Plan.

The RSUs have a five-yearfive-year term and vest 20% per year commencing October 31, 2014.2015. The fair value of the RSUs granted iswas based on the market closing price of the underlying Class A common stock on the grant date of grant and totaled $7 million.$6 million. The compensation expense associated with the RSUs is recognized over the requisite service period of the awards, net of forfeitures.

The performance-based awards have a two-year performance period consisting of the Company’s fiscal 20142015 and fiscal 2015.2016. The performance targets are based on divisional volume metricsthe Company's EBITDA (weighted at 50%) and divisional operating income metricsreturn on equity (weighted at 50%) for the two years of the performance period, with award payouts ranging from a threshold of 50% to a maximum of 200% for each portion of the awards. Awards will be paid in Class A common stock as soon as practicable after October 31 following the end of the performance period. The estimated fair value of the performance-based awards at the date of grant was $7$6 million.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2014, the Company granted a deferred stock unit ("DSU") award to each of its non-employee directors under the Company's 1993 Stock Incentive Plan. John Carter, the Company's Chairman, and Tamara Lundgren, President and Chief Executive Officer, receive compensation pursuant to their employment agreements and do not receive DSUs. One DSU gives the director the right to receive one share of Class A common stock at a future date. The grant included a total of 30,848 shares that will vest on the day before the Company's 2015 annual meeting, subject to continued Board service. The total value of these awards is not material.

Note 14 - Income Taxes

The effective tax rate for the Company’s operations for the three and six months ended February 28, 2014 was an expense of 27.2% and 8.0%, respectively, compared to 2.7% and 14.2%, respectively, for the three and six months ended February 28, 2013.


17

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

A reconciliation of the difference between the federal statutory rate and the Company’s effective rate is as follows:
 Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,
 2014 2013 
2014(1)
 2013
Federal statutory rate35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 % 35.0 %
State taxes, net of credits0.5
 (0.5) 5.5
 (1.0)
Foreign income taxed at different rates1.7
 0.6
 (18.2) 0.7
Section 199 deduction(1.9) (11.9) 0.3
 (12.9)
Non-deductible officers’ compensation0.7
 0.5
 (0.3) 0.6
Noncontrolling interests(2.3) (2.2) 1.1
 (5.1)
Research and development credits(0.3) (2.2) 0.3
 (3.6)
Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets(8.5) (16.8) (29.3) 
Unrecognized tax benefits1.4
 
 (2.0) 
Other0.9
 0.2
 (0.4) 0.5
Effective tax rate27.2 % 2.7 % (8.0)% 14.2 %
_____________________________
(1)For periods with reported pre-tax losses, the effect of reconciling items with positive (negative) signs is tax benefit in excess of (less than) the benefit calculated by applying the federal statutory rate to the pre-tax loss.

The effective tax rate for the first six months of fiscal 2014 was impacted primarily by the recognition of a full valuation allowance on the current period benefit associated with foreign operations losses and the impact of the lower financial performance of foreign operations, which are taxed at more favorable rates. The effective tax rate for the second quarter of fiscal 2014 benefited primarily from the partial realization of previously reserved tax benefits in the foreign jurisdiction as a result of taxable income generated during the period.

The effective tax rate for the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2013 benefited from increased domestic production activities deductions and research and development credits of $1 million. The effective tax rate for the second quarter of fiscal 2013 also benefited from the release of a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets of a foreign subsidiary of $2 million due to a change in the Company's facts and circumstances with respect to the feasibility of implementing a change in its foreign subsidiaries' operating structure which allowed the Company to rely on future forecasted taxable income and conclude that, at that time, it was more likely than not that the associated tax benefit would be realized. The valuation allowance had been recognized in the first quarter of fiscal 2013 as a result of an assessment indicating that, at that time, it was more likely than not that the associated tax benefit would not be realized.
The Company will continue to regularly assess the realizability of deferred tax assets. Changes in historical earnings performance and future earnings projections, among other factors, may cause the Company to adjust its valuation allowance on deferred tax assets, which would impact its results of operations in the period it determines that these factors have changed.
The Company files federal and state income tax returns in the U.S. and foreign tax returns in Puerto Rico and Canada. The federal statute of limitations has expired for fiscal 2009 and prior years. The Canadian and several state tax authorities are currently examining returns for fiscal years 2005 to 2012.


1814

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 11 - Income Taxes

The effective tax rate for the Company’s operations for the three months ended November 30, 2014 was an expense of 0.5% compared to a benefit of 12.7% for the three months ended November 30, 2013.

A reconciliation of the difference between the federal statutory rate and the Company’s effective rate is as follows:
 Three Months Ended November 30,
 
2014(1)
 
2013(1)
Federal statutory rate35.0 % 35.0 %
State taxes, net of credits
 2.5
Foreign income taxed at different rates(28.5) (6.5)
Section 199 deduction0.1
 (1.0)
Non-deductible officers’ compensation
 0.3
Noncontrolling interests0.1
 (0.9)
Research and development credits
 (0.1)
Valuation allowance on deferred tax assets(7.0) (17.0)
Unrecognized tax benefits(0.2) 
Other
 0.4
Effective tax rate(0.5)% 12.7 %
_____________________________
(1)For periods with reported pre-tax losses, the effect of reconciling items with positive signs is tax benefit in excess of the benefit calculated by applying the federal statutory rate to the pre-tax loss.

The effective tax rate for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014 was lower than the statutory rate primarily due to the impact of the financial performance of certain foreign operations, which are taxed at more favorable rates, and the impact of recording a full valuation allowance on the current period benefit associated with certain foreign operations losses.
The Company files federal and state income tax returns in the U.S. and foreign tax returns in Puerto Rico and Canada. For U.S. federal income tax returns, fiscal years 2011 to 2014 remain subject to examination and the income tax return for fiscal year 2012 is currently under examination. Canada and multiple state tax authorities are currently examining the Company's tax returns for fiscal years 2009 to 2012.

Note 1512 - Net Income (Loss)Loss Per Share

The following table sets forth the information used to compute basic and diluted net income (loss)loss per share attributable to SSI (in thousands):
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
2014 2013 2014 20132014 2013
Net income (loss)$2,640
 $8,743
 $(2,728) $7,299
Net loss$(1,601) $(5,367)
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests(851) (100) (1,712) (329)(871) (861)
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI$1,789
 $8,643
 $(4,440) $6,970
Net loss attributable to SSI$(2,472) $(6,228)
Computation of shares:          
Weighted average common shares outstanding, basic26,825
 26,640
 26,790
 26,597
26,944
 26,755
Incremental common shares attributable to dilutive stock options, performance share awards, DSUs and RSUs122
 141
 
 154

 
Weighted average common shares outstanding, diluted26,947
 26,781
 26,790
 26,751
26,944
 26,755

Common stock equivalent shares of 591,6621,365,414 and 1,175,9761,106,990 were considered antidilutive and were excluded from the calculation of diluted net income (loss)loss per share for the three and six months ended February 28,November 30, 2014, respectively, compared to 599,184 and 622,664 common stock equivalent shares for the three and six months ended February 28, 2013, respectively.


15

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Note 1613 - Related Party Transactions

The Company purchases recycled metal from its joint venture operations at prices that approximate fair market value. These purchases totaled $7$7 million and $6 million for the three months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively, and $14 million and $12 million for the six months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Net advances to these joint ventures were $1 million for each of the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, and $1 million for each of the six months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013. The Company owed $2 million and $3 million to joint ventures as of February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013, respectively. Amounts receivable from joint venture partners were $1 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 2013.

In connection with the acquisition of the assets of a metals recycling business in March 2011, the Company had entered into a series of agreements to obtain barging and other services and lease property with entities owned by the minority shareholder of the Company’s subsidiary that operates its MRB facilities in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada. On March 8, 2013, the Company purchased the noncontrolling interest in that subsidiary and, as a result, those entities under common ownership of the former minority shareholder ceased to be related parties of the Company. The Company paid $2 million and $4 million, primarily for barging services, under these agreements for the three and six months ended February 28, 2013.2014.

Thomas D. Klauer, Jr., who had been President of the Company’s Auto Parts Business, prior to his retirement on January 5, 2015, is the sole shareholder of a corporation that is the 25% minority partner in a partnership in which the Company is the 75% partner and which operates five self-service stores in Northern California. Mr. Klauer’s 25% share of the profits of this partnership totaled $1 million and less than $1$1 million for the three months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013, and $1 million for the six months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013.respectively. The partnership leases properties from entities in which Mr. Klauer has ownership interests under agreements that expire in March 2016 with options to renew the leases, upon expiration, for multiple periods. The rent paid by the partnership to the entities in which Mr. Klauer has ownership interests was less than $1 million for each of the three months ended February 28, 2014 and 2013, and for each of the six months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013.

Certain members of the Schnitzer family own significant interests in, or are related to owners of, MMGL Corp, (“MMGL,” formerly known as Schnitzer Investment Corp.), which is engaged in the real estate business and was a subsidiary of the Company prior to 1989. MMGL is considered a related party for financial reporting purposes. The Company and MMGL are both potentially responsible parties with respect to Portland Harbor, which has been designated as a Superfund site since December 2000. The Company and MMGL have worked together in response to Portland Harbor matters, and the Company has paid all of the legal and consulting fees for the joint defense, in part due to its environmental indemnity obligation to MMGL with respect to the Portland scrap metal operations property. The Company and MMGL have agreed to an equitable cost sharing arrangement with respect to defense costs under which MMGL will pay 50% of the legal and consulting costs, net of insurance recoveries. The amounts receivable from (payable to) MMGL vary from period to period because of the timing of incurring legal and consulting fees, payments for cost reimbursements and insurance recoveries. Amounts receivable from MMGL under this agreement were less than $1$1 million and $1 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014.

Note 1714 - Segment Information

The accounting standards for reporting information about operating segments define operating segments as components of an enterprise that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses and for which discrete financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance. The Company’s chief operating decision maker is the Chief Executive Officer. The Company is organized by line of business. While the Chief Executive Officer evaluates results in a number of different ways, the line of business management structure is the primary basis for which the allocation of resources and financial results are assessed. Under the aforementioned criteria, the Company operates in three operating and reporting segments: metal purchasing, processing, recycling and selling (MRB), used auto parts (APB) and mini-mill steel manufacturing (SMB). Additionally, the Company is a noncontrolling partner in joint ventures, which are either in the metals recycling business or are suppliers of unprocessed metal.

MRB buys and processes ferrous and nonferrous metal for sale to foreign and other domestic steel producers or their representatives and to SMB. MRB also purchases ferrous metal from other processors for shipment directly to SMB.

APB purchases used and salvaged vehicles, sells parts from those vehicles through its retail facilities and wholesale operations, and sells the remaining portion of the vehicles to metal recyclers, including MRB.

SMB operates a steel mini-mill that produces a wide range of finished steel products using recycled metal and other raw materials.

Intersegment sales from MRB to SMB are made at rates that approximate export market prices for shipments from the West Coast of the U.S. In addition, the Company has intersegment sales of autobodies from APB to MRB at rates that approximate market prices. These intercompany sales tend to produce intercompany profits which are not recognized until the finished products are ultimately sold to third parties.

The information provided below is obtained from internal information that is provided to the Company’s chief operating decision maker for the purpose of corporate management. The Company uses operating income to measure segment performance. The Company does not allocate corporate interest income and expense, income taxes, other income and expenses related to corporate activity or corporate expense for management and administrative services that benefit all three segments. In addition, the Company does not allocate restructuring charges and other exit-related costs to the segment operating income because management does not include this information in its measurement of the performance of the operating segments. Because of this unallocated income

16

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

and expense, the operating income of each reporting segment does not reflect the operating income the reporting segment would report as a stand-alone business.

The table below illustrates the Company’s operating results by reporting segment (in thousands):
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
2014 2013 2014 20132014 2013
Revenues:          
Metals Recycling Business:          
Revenues$535,690
 $576,191
 $1,025,999
 $1,070,652
$456,278
 $490,309
Less: Intersegment revenues(45,140) (42,461) (94,893) (89,717)(55,282) (49,751)
MRB external customer revenues490,550
 533,730
 931,106
 980,935
400,996
 440,558
Auto Parts Business:          
Revenues76,360
 78,082
 155,995
 147,637
80,921
 79,635
Less: Intersegment revenues(22,219) (20,849) (42,790) (36,818)(21,545) (20,571)
APB external customer revenues54,141
 57,233
 113,205
 110,819
59,376
 59,064
Steel Manufacturing Business:          
Revenues81,456
 71,247
 169,580
 163,276
95,218
 88,123
Total revenues$626,147
 $662,210
 $1,213,891
 $1,255,030
$555,590
 $587,745


19

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The table below illustrates the reconciliation of the Company’s segment operating income to income (loss)loss before income taxes (in thousands):
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
2014 2013 2014 20132014 2013
Metals Recycling Business$10,605
 $14,158
 $11,195
 $19,812
$1,922
 $590
Auto Parts Business4,575
 6,711
 10,184
 13,075
1,961
 5,609
Steel Manufacturing Business3,573
 1,041
 5,318
 4,445
6,207
 1,744
Segment operating income18,753
 21,910
 26,697
 37,332
10,090
 7,943
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs(2,006) (1,540) (3,819) (3,133)(623) (1,812)
Corporate and eliminations(10,163) (8,980) (19,921) (21,595)(9,389) (9,756)
Operating income6,584
 11,390
 2,957
 12,604
Operating income (loss)78
 (3,625)
Interest expense(2,816) (2,354) (5,517) (4,371)(2,424) (2,702)
Other income (expense), net(142) (49) 33
 271
Income (loss) before income taxes$3,626
 $8,987
 $(2,527) $8,504
Other income, net753
 176
Loss before income taxes$(1,593) $(6,151)

The following is a summary of the Company’s total assets by reporting segment (in thousands):
February 28, 2014 August 31, 2013November 30, 2014 August 31, 2014
Metals Recycling Business(1)
$1,325,158
 $1,316,202
$1,331,320
 $1,343,771
Auto Parts Business350,163
 359,977
359,260
 361,411
Steel Manufacturing Business336,696
 330,282
356,348
 350,344
Total segment assets2,012,017
 2,006,461
2,046,928
 2,055,526
Corporate and eliminations(628,248) (600,949)(724,752) (700,316)
Total assets$1,383,769
 $1,405,512
$1,322,176
 $1,355,210
_____________________________
(1)
MRB total assets include $15$15 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014 for investments in joint venture partnerships.


2017

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 

ITEM 2.MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
This section includes a discussion of our operations for the three and six months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013. The following discussion and analysis provides information which management believes is relevant to an assessment and understanding of our results of operations and financial condition. The discussion should be read in conjunction with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 20132014 and the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements and the related Notes thereto included in Part I, Item 1 of this report.
Forward-Looking Statements
Statements and information included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q by Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. (the “Company”) that are not purely historical are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and are made pursuant to the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Except as noted herein or as the context may otherwise require, all references to “we,” “our,” “us” and “SSI” refer to the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries.
Forward-looking statements in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q include statements regarding our expectations, intentions, beliefs and strategies regarding the future, which may include statements regarding trends, cyclicality and changes in the markets we sell into; strategic direction; changes to manufacturing and production processes; the cost of and the status of any agreements or actions related to our compliance with environmental and other laws; expected tax rates, deductions and credits; the realization of deferred tax assets; planned capital expenditures; liquidity positions; ability to generate cash from continuing operations; the potential impact of adopting new accounting pronouncements; expected results, including pricing, sales volumes and profitability; obligations under our retirement plans; benefits, savings or additional costs from business realignment,cost containment and cost containmentproductivity improvement programs; and the adequacy of accruals.
When used in this report, the words “believes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “assumes,” “estimates,” “evaluates,” “may,” “could,” “opinions,” “forecasts,” “future,” “forward,” “potential,” “probable,” and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements.
We may make other forward-looking statements from time to time, including in reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, press releases and public conference calls. All forward-looking statements we make are based on information available to us at the time the statements are made, and we assume no obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law. Our business is subject to the effects of changes in domestic and global economic conditions and a number of other risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those included in, or implied by, such forward-looking statements. Some of these risks and uncertainties are discussed in “Item 1A. Risk Factors” of Part I of our most recent annual report on Form 10-K. Examples of these risks include: potential environmental cleanup costs related to the Portland Harbor Superfund site; the impact of general economic conditions; volatile supply and demand conditions affecting prices and volumes in the markets for both our products and raw materials we purchase; difficulties associated with acquisitions and integration of acquired businesses; the impact of goodwill impairment charges; the impact of long-lived asset impairment charges; the realization of expected cost reductions related to restructuring initiatives; the benefit of business realignment, cost containment and productivity improvement programs and initiatives; the inability of customers to fulfill their contractual obligations; the impact of foreign currency fluctuations; potential limitations on our ability to access capital resources and existing credit facilities; restrictions on our business and financial covenants under our bank credit agreement; the impact of the consolidation in the steel industry; the impact of imports of foreign steel into the U.S.; inability to realize expected benefits from investments in technology; freight rates and availability of transportation; impact of equipment upgrades and failures on production; product liability claims; the impact of impairment of our deferred tax assets; the impact of a cybersecurity incident; costs associated with compliance with environmental regulations; the adverse impact of climate change; inability to obtain or renew business licenses and permits; compliance with greenhouse gas emission regulations; reliance on employees subject to collective bargaining agreements; and the impact of the underfunded status of multiemployer plans in which we participate.


2118

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 

General
Founded in 1906, Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc., an Oregon corporation, is one of the nation’sNorth America's largest recyclers of ferrous and nonferrous scrap metal, a leading recycler of used and salvaged vehicles and a manufacturer of finished steel products.

We operate in three reporting segments: the Metals Recycling Business (“MRB”), the Auto Parts Business (“APB”) and the Steel Manufacturing Business (“SMB”), which collectively provide an end-of-life cycle solution for a variety of products through our integrated businesses. We use operating income to measure our segments’ performance. Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs are not allocated to segment operating income because we do not include this information in our measurement of the segments’ performance. Corporate expense consists primarily of unallocated expense for management and administrative services that benefit all three reporting segments. As a result of this unallocated expense, the operating income of each reporting segment does not reflect the operating income the reporting segment would report as a stand-alone business. For further information regarding our reporting segments, see Note 1714 - Segment Information in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this report.

Our results of operations depend in large part on the demand and prices for recycled metal in foreign and domestic markets and on the supply of raw materials, including end-of-life vehicles, available to be processed at our facilities. Our deep water port facilities on both the East and West coastsCoasts of the U.S. (in Everett, Massachusetts; Providence, Rhode Island; Oakland, California; Portland, Oregon; and Tacoma, Washington), and access to public deep water port facilities (in Kapolei, HawaiiHawaii; and Salinas, Puerto Rico) and water access for transportation purposes (in Surrey, British Columbia) allow us to efficiently meet the global demand for recycled and processed ferrous metal by shipping bulk cargoes to steel manufacturers located in Asia, Europe, Asia,Africa, the Middle East (“EAME”), and Central America and Africa.America. Our exports of nonferrous recycled and processed nonferrous metal are shipped in containers through various public docks to specialty steelmakers, foundries, aluminum sheet and ingot manufacturers, copper refineries and smelters, brass and bronze ingot manufacturers and wire and cable producers globally. We also transport both ferrous and nonferrous metals by truck, rail and railbarge in order to transfer scrap metal between our facilities for further processing, to load shipments at our export facilities and to meet regional domestic demand.

Executive Overview of Financial Results for the SecondFirst Quarter of Fiscal 20142015

We generated consolidated revenues of $626$556 million in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20142015, a decrease of 5% from the $662588 million of consolidated revenues in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2013.2014. Overall consolidated revenues decreased primarily due to lower average net selling prices for ferrous and nonferrous metal and lowerreduced sales volumes of export ferrous metal as a result of continued weak economic conditions that negatively impactedmarket conditions. Weak export demand for recycledferrous metal which wasresulted primarily from a combination of global steelmaking overcapacity and a strengthening of the U.S. currency during the period. These impacts were only partially offset by higher volumesaverage selling prices for domestic sales of recycled ferrous metal andour finished steel products.products compared to the prior year period.

Consolidated operating income was $7 millionslightly above break-even in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2014,2015, compared to $11a consolidated operating loss of $4 million in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2013.2014. Adjusted consolidated operating income in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2014, excluding2015, which excludes the impact of reselling or modifying the terms of certain previously contracted bulk ferrous shipments and restructuring and other exit-related costs, and other asset impairment charges, was $10$6 million compared to an adjusted consolidated operating incomeloss of $13$2 million in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20132014 (see the reconciliation of adjusted consolidated operating income (loss) in Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of Item 2). The improvement in market conditionsExport net selling prices for the exportshipments of recycled metals experienced lateferrous metal in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 carried into2015 declined sharply by approximately $80 per ton, or 20%, compared to the first partend of the second quarter and led to an increase in export selling prices during that period, followed by a sharp decline in the latter part of the second quarter as a result of weaker global demand and the impact of severe winter weather conditions on the domestic markets. The combination of benefits arising from the stronger market conditions in the first part of the second quarter and productivity improvements and other cost savings initiatives resulted in improved operating results in the secondfourth quarter of fiscal 2014 compareddue to weaker global demand. In an environment of declining commodity selling prices as experienced in the immediately preceding quarter. However, the combinationfirst quarter of continued challenging ferrous and non-ferrous market conditions and the impact of continued constrained supplyfiscal 2015, average inventory costs did not decrease as quickly as purchase costs for raw materials, resulting in a substantial adverse effect on the cost of raw materials worsenedgoods sold and compression of operating margins at MRB and APB. The lower price environment during the quarter also adversely impacted the supply of scrap metal, which led to lower processed volumes further compressing operating margins at MRB. In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the operating results of MRB were adversely impacted by disruptions caused$6 million from the resale or modification of the terms, each at significantly lower prices, of certain previously contracted ferrous bulk shipments for delivery during the quarter. These adverse effects were partially offset by severe weather conditions more than offset the benefits from productivity improvements, contributing to a compression in operating margins compared to the prior year quarter. The impact of purchase costs of end-of-life vehiclesinitiatives, primarily at APB decreasing at a slower rate than commodity selling prices in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 also contributed to the compression in operating margins compared to the prior year quarter. These decreases were partially offset byMRB, and an increase in operating income at SMB of $3$4 million compared to the second quarter of fiscal 2013, primarily as a result of higher selling prices for finished steel products and higher rolling mill utilization. The combination of these effects resulted in improved demand leading to higher sales volumes and benefits from productivity improvements, and by a reduction in consolidated selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expenses by $3 million compared to the prior year quarter primarily due to reduced employee compensation and professional services costs.

In the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we achieved $6 million in cost savings related to the restructuring and productivity initiatives announced and initiatedoperating results in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the prior year quarter. Consolidated operating results in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 also included $1 million of operating losses related to store locations acquired or opened by APB during the prior twelve months and the recognition of bad debt expense of $1 million by SMB.

In fiscal 2014, we implemented restructuring and productivity initiatives to reduce our annual operating expenses by approximately $30 million. Furthermore,$40 million, with the full annual benefit expected to be achieved in fiscal 2015. In the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20142015, we identified an additionalachieved a benefit of approximately $10 million, compared to a benefit of approximately $4 million in targeted annualized cost savings, bringing the total targetedprior year period. The reduction in annual operating expenses to approximately $40 million. Of this amount, approximatelywas from a combination of headcount reductions, implementation of operational efficiencies, reduced lease costs and other productivity improvements. We initiated and implemented additional productivity initiatives at APB in the first quarter of

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 

70% isfiscal 2015 to improve profitability through a combination of revenue drivers and cost reduction initiatives. In addition to the measures announced in October 2014 with a targeted annual improvement of $7 million, we have identified incremental cost reduction and productivity initiatives aimed at reducing selling, general and administrative ("SG&A") expense and have increased the overall targeted annual improvement at APB to $14 million, with approximately 50% of that amount expected to benefit fiscal 2014 results with2015, primarily in the second half, and the full annual benefitrun rate expected to be achieved in fiscal 2015. The reduction in expenses is expected to result from a combination of headcount reductions, implementation of operational efficiencies, reduced lease costs and other productivity improvements.

2016.
The following items summarize our consolidated financial results for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2015:
Revenues of $556 million, compared to $588 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014:;
RevenuesSlightly above break-even operating results, compared to an operating loss of $626 million, compared to $6624 million in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20132014;
ConsolidatedAdjusted operating income of $7$6 million,, compared to $11adjusted operating loss of $2 million in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2013;
Adjusted consolidated operating income of $10 million, compared to adjusted consolidated operating income of $13 million in the second quarter of fiscal 20132014 (see reconciliation of adjusted consolidated operating income (loss) in Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of Item 2);
Net incomeloss attributable to SSI of $2$2 million,, or $0.07$(0.09) per diluted share, compared to $9net loss attributable to SSI of $6 million, or $0.32$(0.23) per diluted share, in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20132014;
Adjusted net income attributable to SSI of $3$2 million,, or $0.13$0.08 per diluted share, compared to $10adjusted net loss attributable to SSI of $5 million, or $0.36$(0.18) per diluted share, in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20132014 (see the reconciliation of adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted diluted earnings per share in Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of Item 2);
For the first six monthsNet cash used in operating activities of fiscal 2014,$16 million, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $46 million, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $4426 million in the prior year period; and
Debt, net of cash, of $359$326 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014, compared to $368294 million as of August 31, 20132014 (see the reconciliation of debt, net of cash in Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of Item 2).

The following items highlight the financial results for our reporting segments for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20142015:
MRB revenues and operating income of $536$456 million and $11$2 million, respectively, compared to $576490 million and $141 million, respectively, in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20132014, respectively;;
APB revenues and operating income of $81 million and $2 million, respectively, compared to $7680 million and $56 million, respectively, compared to $78 million and $7 millionin the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20132014, respectively;; and
SMB revenues and operating income of $81$95 million and $4$6 million,, respectively, compared to $7188 million and $1$2 million, respectively, in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20132014, respectively..

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Results of Operations
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
($ in thousands)2014 2013 % Change 2014 2013 % Change2014 2013 % Change
Revenues:                
Metals Recycling Business$535,690
 $576,191
 (7)% $1,025,999
 $1,070,652
 (4)%$456,278
 $490,309
 (7)%
Auto Parts Business76,360
 78,082
 (2)% 155,995
 147,637
 6 %80,921
 79,635
 2 %
Steel Manufacturing Business81,456
 71,247
 14 % 169,580
 163,276
 4 %95,218
 88,123
 8 %
Intercompany revenue eliminations(1)
(67,359) (63,310) 6 % (137,683) (126,535) 9 %(76,827) (70,322) 9 %
Total revenues626,147
 662,210
 (5)% 1,213,891
 1,255,030
 (3)%555,590
 587,745
 (5)%
Cost of goods sold:                
Metals Recycling Business503,524
 538,230
 (6)% 972,124
 1,004,817
 (3)%433,879
 468,601
 (7)%
Auto Parts Business58,119
 57,529
 1 % 117,501
 107,573
 9 %65,298
 59,383
 10 %
Steel Manufacturing Business76,689
 68,320
 12 % 160,370
 155,264
 3 %87,304
 83,680
 4 %
Intercompany cost of goods sold eliminations(1)
(67,192) (63,293) 6 % (136,437) (124,984) 9 %(76,459) (69,247) 10 %
Total cost of goods sold571,140
 600,786
 (5)% 1,113,558
 1,142,670
 (3)%510,022
 542,417
 (6)%
Selling, general and administrative expense:                
Metals Recycling Business21,020
 24,090
 (13)% 42,504
 46,263
 (8)%21,004
 21,483
 (2)%
Auto Parts Business13,666
 13,842
 (1)% 28,310
 26,989
 5 %13,662
 14,643
 (7)%
Steel Manufacturing Business1,194
 1,886
 (37)% 3,892
 3,567
 9 %1,707
 2,699
 (37)%
Corporate(2)
9,976
 8,942
 12 % 18,700
 19,935
 (6)%8,994
 8,725
 3 %
Total selling, general and administrative expense45,856
 48,760
 (6)% 93,406
 96,754
 (3)%45,367
 47,550
 (5)%
(Income) loss from joint ventures:                
Metals Recycling Business(387) (287) 35 % (752) (240) 213 %(527) (365) 44 %
Change in intercompany profit elimination(3)
20
 21
 (5)% (25) 109
 NM
27
 (44) NM
Total income from joint ventures(367) (266) 38 % (777) (131) 493 %(500) (409) 22 %
Other asset impairment charges
- Metals Recycling Business
928
 
 NM
 928
 
 NM
Operating income:                
Metals Recycling Business10,605
 14,158
 (25)% 11,195
 19,812
 (43)%1,922
 590
 226 %
Auto Parts Business4,575
 6,711
 (32)% 10,184
 13,075
 (22)%1,961
 5,609
 (65)%
Steel Manufacturing Business3,573
 1,041
 243 % 5,318
 4,445
 20 %6,207
 1,744
 256 %
Segment operating income18,753
 21,910
 (14)% 26,697
 37,332
 (28)%10,090
 7,943
 27 %
Restructuring charges and other exit-related
costs(4)
(2,006) (1,540) 30 % (3,819) (3,133) 22 %(623) (1,812) (66)%
Corporate expense(2)
(9,976) (8,942) 12 % (18,700) (19,935) (6)%(8,994) (8,725) 3 %
Change in intercompany profit elimination(5)
(187) (38) 392 % (1,221) (1,660) (26)%(395) (1,031) (62)%
Total operating income$6,584
 $11,390
 (42)% $2,957
 $12,604
 (77)%
Total operating income (loss)$78
 $(3,625) NM
_____________________________
NM = Not Meaningful
(1)MRB sells ferrous recycled metal to SMB at rates per ton that approximate U.S. West Coast U.S. export market prices. In addition, APB sells ferrous and nonferrous material to MRB at prices that approximate local market rates. These intercompany revenues and cost of goods sold are eliminated in consolidation.
(2)Corporate expense consists primarily of unallocated expenses for services that benefit all three reporting segments. As a consequence of this unallocated expense, the operating income of each segment does not reflect the operating income the segment would have as a stand-alone business.
(3)The joint ventures sell recycled metal to MRB and to SMB at prices that approximate local market rates, which produces intercompany profit. This intercompany profit is eliminated while the products remain in inventory and is not recognized until the finished products are sold to third parties.
(4)Restructuring charges consist of expense for severance, contract termination and other restructuring costs that management does not include in its measurement of the performance of the operating segments. Other exit-related costs consist of asset impairments related to site closures.
(5)Intercompany profits are not recognized until the finished products are sold to third parties; therefore, intercompany profit is eliminated while the products remain in inventory.


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 

Revenues
Consolidated revenues in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 were $626556 million and $1.2 billion, respectively, decreases, a decrease of 5% and 3% compared to the same periodsperiod in the prior year. The decreases weredecrease was primarily due to lower average net selling prices for ferrous and nonferrous metal and lowerreduced sales volumes of export ferrous metal as a result of continued weak economic conditions that negatively impactedmarket conditions. Weak export demand for recycledferrous metal whichresulted primarily from a combination of global steelmaking overcapacity and a strengthening of the U.S. currency during the period. These impacts were only partially offset by higher volumesaverage selling prices for domestic sales of recycled ferrous metal andour finished steel products. In addition, the low price environment continued to adversely impact the supply of scrap metal and contributed to the lower sales volumesproducts compared to the prior year periods.period.
Operating Income
Consolidated operating income in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 was $7 million and $3 million, respectively,slightly above break-even compared to a consolidated operating loss of $114 million and $13 million in the same periodsperiod in the prior year. Adjusted consolidated operating income in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015, excludingwhich excludes the impact of reselling or modifying the terms of certain previously contracted bulk ferrous shipments and restructuring and other exit-related costs, and other asset impairment charges, was $10$6 million and $8 million, respectively, compared to $13an adjusted consolidated operating loss of $2 million and $16 million, respectively, in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20132014 (see reconciliation of adjusted consolidated operating income (loss) in Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of Item 2). The improvement in market conditionsExport net selling prices for the exportshipments of recycled metals experienced lateferrous metal in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 carried into2015 declined sharply by approximately $80 per ton, or 20%, compared to the first partend of the second quarter and led to an increase in export selling prices during that period, followed by a sharp decline in the latter part of the second quarter as a result of weaker global demand and the impact of severe winter weather conditions on the domestic markets. The combination of benefits arising from the stronger market conditions in the first part of the second quarter and productivity improvements and other cost savings initiatives resulted in improved operating results in the secondfourth quarter of fiscal 2014 compareddue to weaker global demand. In an environment of declining commodity selling prices as experienced in the first quarter of fiscal 2015, average inventory costs did not decrease as quickly as purchase costs for raw materials, resulting in a substantial adverse effect on cost of goods sold and compression of operating margins at MRB and APB. The lower price environment during the quarter also adversely impacted the supply of scrap metal, which led to lower processed volumes further compressing operating margins at MRB. In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the operating results of MRB were adversely impacted by $6 million from the resale or modification of the terms, each at significantly lower prices, of certain previously contracted ferrous bulk shipments for delivery during the quarter. Due to the immediately preceding quarter. However,sharp decline in selling prices that occurred during the combinationfirst quarter of continued challenging ferrousfiscal 2015, the revised prices associated with these shipments were significantly lower than the prices in the original sales contracts entered into between August and non-ferrous market conditions and the impact of continued constrained supply on the cost of raw materials worsenedOctober 2014. These adverse effects were partially offset by disruptions caused by severe weather conditions more than offset the benefits from productivity improvements, contributing to a compression in operating margins compared to the prior year periods. The impactand cost saving initiatives on cost of purchase costs of end-of-life vehicles at APB decreasing at a slower rate than commodity selling prices in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 also contributed to the compression in operating margins compared to the prior year periods. These decreases were partially offset bygoods sold and SG&A expense and an increase in operating income at SMB of $3$4 million primarily as a result of higher selling prices for finished steel products and $1 million forhigher rolling mill utilization. The combination of these effects resulted in improved consolidated operating results in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014, respectively,2015 compared to the prior year periods, primarily as a result of improved demand leading to higher sales volumes and benefits from productivity improvements. In addition, consolidated SG&A expenses decreased by $3 million compared toquarter. Consolidated operating results in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014 primarily duealso included $1 million of operating losses related to reduced employee compensationstore locations acquired or opened by APB during the prior twelve months and professional services costs.the recognition of bad debt expense of $1 million by SMB.
Consolidated operating income in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 included restructuring charges and other exit-related costs of $2$1 million and $4 million, respectively, consisting of severance, contract termination, and other restructuring costs, and exit-related asset impairments, compared to charges of $2 million and $3 million, respectively, in the comparable prior year periods.period. These charges are relatedrelate to restructuring initiatives under twothree separate plans announced in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2012 (the “Q4’12 Plan”) and, the first quarter of fiscal 2014 (the “Q1’14 Plan”) and the first quarter of fiscal 2015 (the “Q1’15 Plan”), respectively.
In the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we initiated the Q1’14 Plan and began implementing restructuring and productivity initiatives to further reduce our annual operating expenses by approximately $30 million, which was subsequently increased to $40 million later in the fiscal year. We achieved approximately $29 million of which the majority will be reflectedbenefit in cost of goods sold. In the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014, we achieved $6 million and $10 million, respectively, in cost savings related to these initiatives. Furthermore, in the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we identified an additional $10 million in targeted annualized cost savings benefiting mainly SG&A expenses, bringing the total targeted reduction in annual operating expenses to approximately $40 million. Of this amount, approximately 70% is expected to benefit fiscal 2014 results with the full annual benefit expected to be achieved in fiscal 2015. In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we achieved a benefit of $10 million, compared to a benefit of $4 million in the prior year quarter. The majority of the reduction in operating expenses will primarily occur occurred at MRB and is expected to resultresulted from a combination of headcount reductions, implementation of operational efficiencies, reduced lease costs and other productivity improvements. We expect to incur restructuring charges of approximately $5$6 million substantially all in fiscal 2014, in connection with these initiatives, the Q1’14 Plan, which were substantially incurred in fiscal 2014. The remaining charges are expected to be incurred by the end of fiscal 2017. The vast majority of which willthese charges require us to make cash payments.
In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, we initiated the Q1'15 Plan and started implementing additional productivity initiatives at APB to improve profitability through a combination of revenue drivers and cost reduction initiatives. In addition to the restructuring charges recordedmeasures announced in connectionOctober 2014 with thesea targeted annual improvement of $7 million, we have identified incremental cost reduction and productivity initiatives in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 the Company incurred other exit-related costs of $1 million consisting of asset impairments related to site closures.

The Q4’12 Plan included restructuring initiatives designed to extract greater synergies from the significant acquisitions and technology investments made in recent years, to achieve further integration between MRB and APB, to realign our organization to support future growth and to decrease operating expenses by streamlining functions andaimed at reducing organizational layers. These initiatives, which were completed by the end of fiscal 2013, achieved a reduction in operating costs of approximately $25 million on an annualized basis, comprising approximately $18 million of selling, general and administrative expense in connection with the Q1'15 Plan and $7have increased the overall targeted annual improvement at APB to $14 million, with approximately 50% of costthat amount expected to benefit fiscal 2015, primarily in the second half, and the full annual run rate expected to be achieved in fiscal 2016. We expect to incur restructuring charges of goods sold.approximat


ely $2 million in connection with the Q1’15 Plan, substantially all of which are expected to be incurred in fiscal 2015. The vast majority of these charges require us to make cash payments.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 

Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs for the three months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013 were comprised of the following (in thousands):
Three Months Ended February 28, 2014 Three Months Ended February 28, 2013Three Months Ended November 30, 2014 Three Months Ended November 30, 2013
Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total Charges Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total ChargesQ1’14 Plan Q1’15 Plan Total Charges Q4’12 Plan Q1’14 Plan Total Charges
Restructuring charges:                      
Severance costs$(39) $1,182
 $1,143
 $116
 $
 $116
$27
 $
 $27
 $26
 $1,076
 $1,102
Contract termination costs106
 (9) 97
 19
 
 19
253
 
 253
 462
 38
 500
Other restructuring costs
 200
 200
 1,405
 
 1,405

 343
 343
 
 210
 210
Total restructuring charges67
 1,373
 1,440
 1,540
 
 1,540
$280
 $343
 $623
 $488
 $1,324
 $1,812
Other exit-related costs:           
Asset impairments
 566
 566
 
 
  
Total exit-related costs
 566
 566
 
 
 
Total restructuring charges and other exit-related costs$67
 $1,939
 $2,006
 $1,540
 $
 $1,540
Total restructuring charges to date$13,473
 $2,698
 $16,171
 $8,145
 $
 $8,145

See Note 76 - Restructuring Charges and Other Exit-Related Costs in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this report for additional details on restructuring charges.

Interest Expense
Interest expense was $3 million and $6 million, respectively, for the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014, compared to $2 million and $4 million for the same periods in the prior year. The increase in interest expense was primarily due to increased average borrowings under our bank credit facilities compared to the prior year periods.

Income Tax Expense
Our effective tax rate for the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 was an expense of 27.2% and 8.0%, respectively,0.5% compared to a benefit of 2.7%12.7% and 14.2%, respectively, for the same periodsperiod in the prior year.

The effective tax rate for the first six monthsquarter of fiscal 2015 and 2014 was impactedlower than the federal statutory rate of 35% primarily bydue to the recognitionimpact of the financial performance of certain foreign operations, which are taxed at more favorable rates, and the impact of recording a full valuation allowance on the current period benefit associated with certain foreign operations losses and the impact of the lower financial performance of foreign operations, which are taxed at more favorable rates. The effective tax rate for the second quarter of fiscal 2014 benefited primarily from the partial realization of previously reserved tax benefits in the foreign jurisdiction as a result of taxable income generated during the period.

The effective tax rate for the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2013 benefited from increased domestic production activities deductions and research and development credits of $1 million. The effective tax rate for the second quarter of fiscal 2013 also benefited from the release of a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets of a foreign subsidiary of $2 million due to a change in the Company's facts and circumstances with respect to the feasibility of implementing a change in our foreign subsidiaries' operating structure which allowed us to rely on future forecasted taxable income and conclude that, at that time, it was more likely than not that the associated tax benefit would be realized. The valuation allowance had been recognized in the first quarter of fiscal 2013 as a result of an assessment indicating that, at that time, it was more likely than not that the associated tax benefit would not be realized.

We will continue to regularly assess the realizability of deferred tax assets. Changes in historical earnings performance and future earnings projections, among other factors, may cause us to adjust our valuation allowance on deferred tax assets, which would impact our results of operations in the period we determine that these factors have changed.losses.

The effective tax rate for fiscal 20142015 is expected to be approximately 39%27%, subject to financial performance for the remainder of the year.


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

Financial Results by Segment
We operate our business across three reporting segments: MRB, APB and SMB. Additional financial information relating to these reporting segments is contained in Note 1714 - Segment Information in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this report.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

Metals Recycling Business
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
($ in thousands, except for prices)2014 2013 % Change 2014 2013 % Change2014 2013 % Change
Ferrous revenues$409,106
 $443,418
 (8)% $778,661
 $813,894
 (4)%$337,578
 $369,555
 (9)%
Nonferrous revenues120,833
 125,255
 (4)% 233,987
 241,856
 (3)%112,593
 113,154
  %
Other5,751
 7,518
 (24)% 13,351
 14,902
 (10)%6,107
 7,600
 (20)%
Total segment revenues535,690
 576,191
 (7)% 1,025,999
 1,070,652
 (4)%456,278
 490,309
 (7)%
Cost of goods sold503,524
 538,230
 (6)% 972,124
 1,004,817
 (3)%433,879
 468,601
 (7)%
Selling, general and administrative expense21,020
 24,090
 (13)% 42,504
 46,263
 (8)%21,004
 21,483
 (2)%
Income from joint ventures(387) (287) 35 % (752) (240) 213 %(527) (365) 44 %
Other asset impairment charges928
 
 NM
 928
 
 NM
Segment operating income$10,605
 $14,158
 (25)% $11,195
 $19,812
 (43)%$1,922
 $590
 226 %
Average ferrous recycled metal sales prices ($/LT):(1)
          

     
Domestic$374
 $363
 3 % $365
 $358
 2 %$344
 $356
 (3)%
Foreign$361
 $374
 (3)% $353
 $368
 (4)%$319
 $344
 (7)%
Average$365
 $372
 (2)% $357
 $365
 (2)%$328
 $348
 (6)%
Ferrous sales volume (LT, in thousands):          

     
Domestic328
 261
 26 % 651
 540
 21 %334
 323
 3 %
Foreign701
 843
 (17)% 1,356
 1,518
 (11)%605
 655
 (8)%
Total ferrous sales volume (LT, in thousands)1,029
 1,104
 (7)% 2,007
 2,058
 (2)%939
 978
 (4)%
Average nonferrous sales price ($/pound)(1)
$0.86
 $0.97
 (11)% $0.87
 $0.96
 (9)%$0.85
 $0.89
 (4)%
Nonferrous sales volumes (pounds, in thousands)135,935
 125,500
 8 % 259,876
 244,432
 6 %127,473
 123,941
 3 %
Outbound freight included in cost of goods sold$37,223
 $37,349
  % $69,806
 $69,907
  %$34,489
 $32,583
 6 %
_____________________________
NM = Not Meaningful
LT = Long Ton, which is 2,240 pounds
(1)Price information is shown after netting the cost of freight incurred to deliver the product to the customer.

Revenues
Revenues in the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 decreased by 7% and 4%, respectively, compared to the prior year periodsperiod primarily due to lower exportaverage net selling prices for ferrous metal and reduced sales volumes and averageof export sales pricesferrous metal as a result of continued weak economic conditions that negatively impactedmarket conditions. Weak export demand for recycledferrous metal resulted primarily from a combination of global steelmaking overcapacity and a strengthening of the U.S. currency during the period.
Segment Operating Income
Operating income for the first quarter of fiscal 2015 was $2 million compared to $1 million in the prior year period. Adjusted operating income in the first quarter of fiscal 2015, which were only partially offset by both higherexcludes the impact of reselling or modifying the terms of certain previously contracted bulk ferrous volumes and averageshipments, was $8 million, compared to $1 million in the prior year period (see reconciliation of adjusted MRB operating income in Non-GAAP Financial Measures at the end of Item 2). Export net selling prices on domestic salesfor shipments of recycled metal.ferrous metal in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 declined sharply by approximately $80 per ton, or 20%, compared to the end of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2014 due to weaker global demand. In addition,an environment of declining commodity selling prices as experienced in the lowfirst quarter of fiscal 2015, average inventory costs did not decrease as quickly as purchase costs for raw materials, resulting in a substantial adverse effect on cost of goods sold and compression of operating margins. The lower price environment continued toduring the quarter also adversely impactimpacted the supply of scrap metal, and contributedwhich led to lower processed volumes further compressing operating margins. In the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the operating results of MRB were adversely impacted by $6 million from the resale or modification of the terms, each at significantly lower prices, of certain previously contracted ferrous bulk shipments for delivery during the quarter. Due to the sharp decline in selling prices that occurred during the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the revised prices associated with these shipments were significantly lower than the prices in the original sales volumescontracts entered into between August and October 2014. The benefits from productivity and cost saving initiatives on cost of goods sold and SG&A expense partially offset the adverse effects of the continued weak market conditions resulting in improved operating results in the first quarter of fiscal 2015 compared to the prior year periods.quarter, which also experienced constrained supply conditions and operating margin compression, but comparably lower benefits from productivity and cost saving initiatives.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 

Segment Operating Income
Operating income for each of the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014 was $11 million compared to $14 million and $20 million, respectively, in the comparable prior year periods. The improvement in market conditions for the export of recycled metals experienced late in the first quarter of fiscal 2014 carried into the first part of the second quarter and led to an increase in export selling prices during that period, followed by a sharp decline in the latter part of the second quarter as a result of weaker global demand and the impact of severe winter weather conditions on the domestic markets. The combination of benefits arising from the stronger market conditions and productivity improvements and other cost savings initiatives resulted in improved operating results in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 compared to the immediately preceding quarter. However, the combination of continued challenging ferrous and non-ferrous market conditions and the impact of continued constrained supply on the cost of raw materials worsened by disruptions caused by severe weather conditions more than offset the benefits from productivity improvements, contributing to a compression in operating margins compared to the prior year periods. SG&A expenses in the second quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014 decreased by $3 million and $4 million, respectively, compared to the prior year periods primarily due to reduced employee compensation and outside services costs.
Further, during the second quarter of fiscal 2014, we recorded $1 million in other asset impairment charges on assets held for sale.
Auto Parts Business
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
($ in thousands)2014 2013 % Change 2014 2013 % Change2014 2013 % Change
Revenues$76,360
 $78,082
 (2)% $155,995
 $147,637
 6 %$80,921
 $79,635
 2 %
Cost of goods sold58,119
 57,529
 1 % 117,501
 107,573
 9 %65,298
 59,383
 10 %
Selling, general and administrative expense13,666
 13,842
 (1)% 28,310
 26,989
 5 %13,662
 14,643
 (7)%
Segment operating income$4,575
 $6,711
 (32)% $10,184
 $13,075
 (22)%$1,961
 $5,609
 (65)%
Number of stores at period end61
 59
 3 % 61
 59
 3 %62
 62
  %
Cars purchased (in thousands)85
 88
 (3)% 176
 167
 5 %97
 91
 7 %

Revenues
Revenues in the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 2014 decreased2015 increased by 2% compared to the prior year period primarily due to lowerhigher sales volumes, as a result of lower commodity selling prices and constrained supply of end-of-life vehicles. Revenues in the first six months of fiscal 2014 increased by 6% compared to the prior year period primarily due to higher sales volume as a result of additional volume in the first three months of the periodincluding from new stores acquired or opened during the prior twelve-month period.in fiscal 2014, partially offset by lower commodity prices.
Segment Operating Income
Operating income for the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 decreased by 32%65% and 22%, respectively, compared to the same periodsperiod in the prior year. Operating income in the second quarter of fiscal 2014 was adversely impacted by a combination of the fall in commodity prices in the latter part of the quarter and lower volumes, which compressedThe benefits on operating margins compared to the prior year quarter. Compared to the first six months of fiscal 2013, the benefits from increased saleshigher volumes due to the additional store locations were more than offset by thea compression in operating margins primarily due to the challenging market conditions. Operating income forsharp reduction in ferrous commodity selling prices during the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 2014 also included operating losses 2015, which led to an adverse effect on cost of $1 million, including integration and startupgoods sold from average inventory costs related to store locations with twelve months or less of operations, compared to $2 million in the prior year comparable periods.not decreasing as quickly as purchase costs for raw materials.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

Steel Manufacturing Business
Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
($ in thousands, except for price)2014 2013 % Change 2014 2013 % Change2014 2013 % Change
Revenues$81,456
 $71,247
 14 % $169,580
 $163,276
 4 %$95,218
 $88,123
 8 %
Cost of goods sold76,689
 68,320
 12 % 160,370
 155,264
 3 %87,304
 83,680
 4 %
Selling, general and administrative expense1,194
 1,886
 (37)% 3,892
 3,567
 9 %1,707
 2,699
 (37)%
Segment operating income$3,573
 $1,041
 243 % $5,318
 $4,445
 20 %$6,207
 $1,744
 256 %
Finished steel products average sales price ($/ton)(1)
$676
 $690
 (2)% $666
 $684
 (3)%$683
 $657
 4 %
Finished steel products sold (tons, in thousands)115
 96
 20 % 243
 225
 8 %127
 128
 (1)%
Rolling mill utilization67% 63%   66% 66%  72% 65%  
_____________________________
(1)Price information is shown after netting the cost of freight incurred to deliver the product to the customer.

Revenues
Revenues for the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 increased by 14%8% and 4% compared to the same periodsperiod in the prior year due to higher sales volumes for finished steel productsincreased average selling prices as a result of slightly higher demand in our West Coast markets mainly driven by improved non-residential construction, partially offset by lower average selling prices as a result of the impact of reduced costs of raw materials.construction.
Segment Operating Income
Operating income for the secondfirst quarter and first six months of fiscal 20142015 increased by 243% and 20%significantly compared to the respective prior year periodsperiod due to higher sales volumes, the impact of raw material costs decreasing at a faster rate than the average sales priceprices for finished steel products, on cost of goods soldhigher rolling mill utilization and benefits from productivity improvements, which generated higher operational efficiencies and productivity improvements. Forefficiencies. Operating income for the first six monthsquarter of fiscal 2014 these benefits were partially offset by theincluded recognition of bad debt expense of $1 million in the first quarter of fiscal 2014.million.
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources

We rely on cash provided by operating activities as a primary source of liquidity, supplemented by current cash on hand and borrowings under our existing credit facilities.

Sources and Uses of Cash
We had cash balances of $20$15 million and $1326 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014, respectively. Cash balances are intended to be used primarily for working capital, capital expenditures, acquisitions, dividends and share repurchases. We use excess cash on hand to reduce amounts outstanding under our credit facilities. As of February 28,November 30, 2014, debt, net of cash, was$359 million compared to $368 million as of August 31, 2013 (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below), a decrease of $10 million primarily as a result of the positive cash flows generated by operating activities. Our cash balances as of February 28, 2014 and August 31, 2013 include $3 million and $7 million, respectively, which are indefinitely reinvested in Puerto Rico and Canada.
Operating Activities
Net cash provided by operating activities in the first six months of fiscal 2014 was $46 million, compared to net cash used in operating activities of $44 million in the first six months of fiscal 2013.

Sources of cash in the first six months of fiscal 2014 included a $5 million decrease in accounts receivable due to the timing of sales and collections. Uses of cash included a $8 million increase in inventory due to higher volumes on hand including the impact of timing of purchases and sales.

Cash used in operating activities in the first six months of fiscal 2013 included a $46 million increase in inventory due to higher volumes on hand including the impact of timing on sales, a $32 million increase in accounts receivable due to the timing of collections and a $11 million decrease in accounts payable due to the timing of payments.


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC. 

$326 million compared to $294 million as of August 31, 2014 (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below), an increase of $32 million mainly as a result of higher net working capital primarily due to the timing of inventory purchases and sales. Our cash balances as of November 30, 2014 and August 31, 2014 include $4 million which are indefinitely reinvested in Puerto Rico and Canada.
Operating Activities
Net cash used in operating activities in the first three months of fiscal 2015 was $16 million, compared to net cash provided by operating activities of $26 million in the first three months of fiscal 2014.

Sources of cash in the first three months of fiscal 2015 included a $31 million decrease in accounts receivable due to the timing of sales and collections. Uses of cash included in the first three months of fiscal 2015 included a $26 million increase in inventory due to higher volumes on hand including the impact of timing of purchases and sales and a $25 million decrease in accounts payable due to the timing of payments.

Sources of cash in the first three months of fiscal 2014 included a $57 million decrease in accounts receivable due to the timing of sales and collections. Uses of cash included a $39 million increase in inventory due to higher volumes on hand including the impact of timing of purchases and sales.

Investing Activities
Net cash used in investing activities in the first sixthree months of fiscal 2015 was $9 million, compared to $16 million in the first three months of fiscal 2014 was $24 million, compared to $70 million in the first six months of fiscal 2013.

Cash used in investing activities in the first six months of fiscal 2014 included capital expenditures of $21 million to upgrade our equipment and infrastructure.

Cash used in investing activities in the first sixthree months of fiscal 20132015 included capital expenditures of $48$10 million including investmentsto upgrade our equipment and infrastructure, compared to $14 million in the construction of a new shredder, advanced processing equipment and related infrastructure for our facility in Surrey, British Columbia, which commenced shredding operations in the third quarterfirst three months of fiscal 2013. Cash used for investing activities also included $23 million related to the acquisition of eight used auto parts facilities in the second quarter of fiscal 2013.2014.

Financing Activities
Net cash used inprovided by financing activities in the first sixthree months of fiscal 2015 was $14 million, compared $6 million in the first three months of fiscal 2014 was $15 million, compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $58 million in the first six months of fiscal 2013.

Cash used in financing activities in the first sixthree months of fiscal 20142015 was primarily due to $10 million for dividends and $4 million in net repayments of debt (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below).

Cash provided by financing activities in the first six months of fiscal 2013 included $63$22 million in net borrowings of debt (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below) mainly used to support higher net working capital requirements.primarily due to the timing of inventory purchases and sales. Uses of cash included $5 million for dividends.

Cash provided by financing activities in the first three months of fiscal 2014 was primarily due to $12 million in net borrowings of debt (refer to Non-GAAP Financial Measures below) mainly used to support capital expenditures. Uses of cash included $5 million for dividends.

Credit Facilities
Our unsecured committed bank credit facility, which provides for revolving loans of $670 million and C$30 million, matures in April 2017 pursuant to a credit agreement with Bank of America, N.A. as administrative agent, and other lenders party thereto. Interest rates on outstanding indebtedness under the agreement are based, at our option, on either the London Interbank Offered Rate (or the Canadian equivalent) plus a spread of between 1.25% and 2.25%, with the amount of the spread based on a pricing grid tied to our leverage ratio, or the greater of the prime rate, the federal funds rate plus 0.5% or the British Bankers Association LIBOR Rate plus 1.75%. In addition, annual commitment fees are payable on the unused portion of the credit facility at rates between 0.15% and 0.35% based on a pricing grid tied to our leverage ratio.

We had borrowings outstanding under the credit facility of $364$327 million as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and $360305 million as of August 31, 20132014. The weighted average interest rate on amounts outstanding under this facility was 1.95%1.94% and 1.98%1.91% as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014, respectively.

We also have an unsecured, uncommitted $25$25 million credit line with Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. that was renewed and extended to expires March 1, 2015.2015. Interest rates are set by the bank at the time of borrowing. We had zero and $9 million ofno borrowings outstanding under this line of credit as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014.

We use these credit facilities to fund working capital requirements, acquisitions, capital expenditures, dividends and share repurchases. The two bank credit agreements contain various representations and warranties, events of default and financial and other covenants which could limit or restrict our ability to create liens, raise additional capital, enter into transactions with affiliates,

26

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

acquire and dispose of businesses, guarantee debt, and consolidate or merge. The financial covenants include a consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio, defined as the four-quarter rolling sum of consolidated adjusted EBITDA less defined maintenance capital expenditures divided by consolidated fixed charges, and a consolidated leverage ratio, defined as consolidated funded indebtedness divided by the sum of consolidated net worth and consolidated funded indebtedness. We refer to the Forms 8-K dated February 14, 2011 and April 16, 2012, which include as attachments copies of the unsecured committed bank credit agreement, as amended, for the detailed methodology for calculating the financial covenants.

As of February 28,November 30, 2014, we were in compliance with these financial covenants. The consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio is required to be no less than 1.50 to 1 and was 1.792.53 to 1 as of February 28,November 30, 2014. The consolidated leverage ratio is required to be no more than 0.55 to 1 and was 0.340.32 to 1 as of February 28,November 30, 2014. While we expect to remain in compliance with these covenants, there can be no assurancesassurance that we will be able to do so in the event of a sustained or sharp deterioration infrom current market conditions or other negative factors which adversely impact our results of operations and financial position, and lead to a trend of consolidated netoperating losses. If we do not maintain compliance with our financial covenants and are unable to obtain an amendment or waiver from our lenders, a breach of either covenant would constitute an event of default and allow the lenders to exercise remedies under the agreements, the most severe of which is the termination of the credit facility under our committed bank credit agreement and

30

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

acceleration of the amounts owed under both agreements. In such case, we would be required to evaluate available alternatives and take appropriate steps to obtain alternative funds. There can be no assurance that any such alternative funds, if sought, could be obtained or, if obtained, would be adequate or on acceptable terms.

In addition, as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 20132014, we had $8$8 million of long-term tax-exempt bonds outstanding that mature in January 2021.

Capital Expenditures
Capital expenditures totaled $21$10 million for the first sixthree months of fiscal 20142015, compared to $4814 million for the same period in the prior year. During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we completed our investment in the construction of a new nonferrous processing facility in Puerto Rico, which commenced operations in September 2013. We currently plan to invest up to $50$40 million in capital expenditures on upgrades in fiscal 20142015, includingsimilar to the upgrades in fiscal 2014, exclusive of any capital expenditures associated with APB acquisitionsfor growth projects, using cash generated from operations and greenfield store developments made or commenced in fiscal 2013 or fiscal 2014.available lines of credit.

Dividends
On February 10,October 30, 2014 our Board of Directors declared a dividend for the secondfirst quarter of fiscal 20142015 of $0.1875 per common share, which equates to an annual cash dividend of $0.75 per common share. The dividend was paid on February 28,November 24, 2014.

Environmental Compliance
Our commitment to sustainable recycling and to operating our business in an environmentally responsible manner requires us to continue to invest in facilities that improve our environmental presence in the communities in which we operate. As part of our capital expenditures, we invested $2$2 million in capital expenditures for environmental projects during the first sixthree months of fiscal 20142015, and plan to invest up to $912 million for such projects in fiscal 2014.2015. These projects include investments in storm water systems and equipment to ensure ongoing compliance with air quality and other environmental regulations.

We have been identified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) as one of the potentially responsible parties (“PRPs”) that own or operate or formerly owned or operated sites which are part of or adjacent to the Portland Harbor Superfund site (“the Site”). A group of PRPs is conducting an investigation and study to identify and characterize the contamination at the Site and develop alternative approaches to remediation of the contamination. On March 30, 2012 the group submitted to the EPA a draft feasibility study (“draft FS”) based on approximately ten years of work and $100 million in costs classified as investigation-related. The draft FS identifies ten possible remedial alternatives which range in estimated cost from approximately $170 million to $250 million (net present value) for the least costly alternative to approximately $1.08 billion to $1.76 billion (net present value) for the most costly and estimates a range of two to 28 years to implement the remedial work, depending on the selected alternative. The draft FS does not determine who is responsible for remediation costs, define the precise cleanup boundaries or select remedies. The draft FS is being reviewedrevised by the EPA and is likely to be subject tothe revisions which couldmay be significant prior to its approval byand could materially impact the EPA. Ascope or cost of remediation. While the draft FS is an important step in the EPA’s development of a proposed plan for addressing the Site, a final decision on the nature and extent of the required remediation will occur only after the EPA has prepared a proposed plan for public review and issued a record of decision (“ROD”). Currently available information indicates that the EPA does not expect to issue its final ROD selecting a remedy for the Site until at least 2016.2017 or commence remediation activities until 2024. Responsibility for implementing and funding the EPA’s selected remedy will be determined in a separate allocation process, which is currently underway. Because there has not been a determination of the total cost of the investigations, the remediation that will be required, the amount of natural resource damages or how the costs of the ongoing investigations and any remedy and natural resource damages will be allocated among the PRPs, we believe it is not reasonably possible to estimate the amount or range of

27

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

costs which we are likely or which are reasonably possible to incur in connection with the Site, although such costs could be material to our financial position, results of operations, future cash flows and liquidity. Any material liabilities recorded in the future related to the Site could result in our failure to maintain compliance with certain covenants in our debt agreements. Significant cash outflows in the future related to the Site could reduce the amounts available for borrowing that could otherwise be used for investment in capital expenditures, acquisitions, dividends and share repurchases. See Note 65 - Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this report.

Assessment of Liquidity and Capital Resources
Historically, our available cash resources, internally generated funds, credit facilities and equity offerings have financed our acquisitions, capital expenditures, working capital and other financing needs.

We generally believe our current cash resources, internally generated funds, existing credit facilities and access to the capital markets will provide adequate short-term and long-term liquidity needs for acquisitions, capital expenditures, working capital, dividends, share repurchases, joint ventures, debt service requirements and environmental obligations. However, in the event of a sustained market deterioration, we may need additional liquidity, which would require us to evaluate available alternatives and

31

SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

take appropriate steps to obtain sufficient additional funds. There can be no assurance that any such supplemental funding, if sought, could be obtained or, if obtained, would be adequate or on acceptable terms.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

None.
Contractual Obligations
There were no material changes related to contractual obligations and commitments from the information provided in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended August 31, 20132014.
We maintain stand-by letters of credit to provide support for certain obligations, including workers’ compensation and performance bonds. At February 28,November 30, 2014, we had $17$16 million outstanding under these arrangements.

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates
We reaffirm our critical accounting policies and estimates as described in the “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” section of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 2013,2014, except for the following:
Goodwill
During the first quarter of fiscal 2014, we changed the annual impairment testing date of goodwill allocated to our reporting units from February 28 to July 1 of each year. There were no triggering events identified during the first or second quartersquarter of fiscal 20142015 requiring an interim goodwill impairment test of goodwill allocated to our reporting units. Additional sustained declines or aA lack of recovery inof market conditions in the metals recycling industry from current levels, a trend of weaker than anticipated Company financial performance including the pace and extent of operating margin and volume recovery, a sustainedlack of recovery or further decline in the Company’sour share price from current levels for a sustained period of time, or an increase in the market-based weighted-averageweighted average cost of capital, among other factors, could significantly impact theour impairment analysis and may result in future goodwill impairment charges that,which, if incurred, could have a material adverse effect on the Company’sour financial condition and results of operations. See Note 4 - Goodwill in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements, Part 1, Item 1 of this report for further detail.
Recently Issued Accounting Standards
For a description of recent accounting pronouncements that may have an impact on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, see Note 2 - Recent Accounting Pronouncements in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item 1 of this report.


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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

Non-GAAP Financial Measures
Debt, net of cash
Debt, net of cash is the difference between (i) the sum of long-term debt and short-term debt (i.e., total debt) and (ii) cash and cash equivalents. Management believesWe believe that debt, net of cash is a useful measure for investors because, as cash and cash equivalents can be used, among other things, to repay indebtedness, netting this against total debt is a useful measure of our leverage.
The following is a reconciliation of debt, net of cash (in thousands):
February 28, 2014 August 31, 2013November 30, 2014 August 31, 2014
Short-term borrowings$696
 $9,174
$471
 $523
Long-term debt, net of current maturities378,217
 372,663
340,355
 318,842
Total debt378,913
 381,837
340,826
 319,365
Less: cash and cash equivalents20,403
 13,481
14,666
 25,672
Total debt, net of cash$358,510
 $368,356
$326,160
 $293,693
Net borrowings (repayments) of debt
Net borrowings (repayments) of debt is the sum of borrowings from long-term debt, repayments of long-term debt, proceeds from line of credit, and repayment of line of credit. Management presentsWe present this amount as the net change in borrowings (repayments) for the period because it believeswe believe it is useful for investors as a meaningful presentation of the change in debt.

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SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

The following is a reconciliation of net borrowings (repayments) of debt (in thousands):
Six Months Ended February 28,Three Months Ended November 30,
2014 20132014 2013
Borrowings from long-term debt$185,027
 $158,324
$70,848
 $119,269
Proceeds from line of credit257,500
 315,000
48,000
 147,500
Repayment of long-term debt(180,477) (94,987)(49,192) (98,472)
Repayment of line of credit(266,000) (315,000)(48,000) (156,000)
Net borrowings (repayments) of debt$(3,950) $63,337
$21,656
 $12,297
Adjusted consolidated operating income (loss), adjusted MRB operating income, adjusted net income (loss) and adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to SSI
Management presentsWe present adjusted consolidated operating income (loss), adjusted MRB operating income, adjusted net income (loss) attributable to SSI and adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to SSI because it believeswe believe these measures provide a meaningful presentation of our results from core business operations excluding adjustments for restructuring charges and other exit-related costs and other asset impairment charges that are not related to core underlying business operations and improve the period-to-period comparability of our results from core business operations. To improve comparability of our operating performance between periods, these measures also exclude the impact on operating results in fiscal 2015 from the resale or modification of the terms, each at significantly lower prices, of certain previously contracted ferrous bulk shipments for delivery during the first quarter of fiscal 2015. Due to the sharp decline in selling prices that occurred during the first quarter of fiscal 2015, the revised prices associated with these shipments were significantly lower than the prices in the original sales contracts entered into between August and October 2014.
The following is a reconciliation of the adjusted consolidated operating income (loss), adjusted MRB operating income, adjusted net income (loss) attributable to SSI and adjusted diluted earnings per share attributable to SSI (in thousands, except per share data):
 Three Months Ended February 28, Six Months Ended February 28,
 2014 2013 2014 2013
Consolidated operating income:       
As reported6,584
 $11,390
 $2,957
 $12,604
Other asset impairment charges928
 
 928
 
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs2,006
 1,540
 3,819
 3,133
Adjusted$9,518
 $12,930
 $7,704
 $15,737
        
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI:       
As reported$1,789
 $8,643
 $(4,440) $6,970
Other asset impairment charges, net of tax521
 
 521
 
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs, net of tax1,120
 1,003
 2,401
 2,039
Adjusted$3,430
 $9,646
 $(1,518) $9,009
        
Diluted earnings per share attributable to SSI:       
As reported$0.07
 $0.32
 $(0.17) $0.26
Other asset impairment charges, net of tax, per share0.02
 
 0.02
 
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs, net of tax, per share0.04
 0.04
 0.09
 0.08
Adjusted$0.13
 $0.36
 $(0.06) $0.34
 Three Months Ended November 30,
 2014 2013
Consolidated operating income (loss):   
As reported$78
 $(3,625)
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs623
 1,812
Resale or modification of certain previously contracted shipments5,581
 
Adjusted$6,282
 $(1,813)
    

29

Management believes
SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.

MRB operating income:   
As reported$1,922
 $590
Resale or modification of certain previously contracted shipments5,581
 
Adjusted$7,503
 $590
    
Net income (loss) attributable to SSI:   
As reported$(2,472) $(6,228)
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs, net of tax474
 1,279
Resale or modification of certain previously contracted shipments, net of tax4,156
 
Adjusted$2,158
 $(4,949)
    
Diluted earnings per share attributable to SSI:   
As reported$(0.09) $(0.23)
Restructuring charges and other exit-related costs, net of tax, per share0.02
 0.05
Resale or modification of certain previously contracted shipments, net of tax, per share0.15
 
Adjusted$0.08
 $(0.18)
We believe that these non-GAAP financial measures allow for a better understanding of our operating and financial performance. These non-GAAP financial measures should be considered in addition to, but not as a substitute for, the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP measures. Although we find these non-GAAP financial measures useful in evaluating the performance of our business, our reliance on these measures is limited because the adjustments often have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with GAAP. Therefore, we typically use these adjusted amounts in conjunction with our GAAP results to address these limitations.

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ITEM 3.QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
Commodity Price Risk
We are exposed to commodity price risk, mainly associated with variations in the market price for finished steel products, ferrous and nonferrous metals, including scrap metal, autobodies and other commodities. The timing and magnitude of industry cycles are difficult to predict and are impacted by general economic conditions. We respond to increases and decreases in forward selling prices by adjusting purchase prices on a timely basis. We actively manage our exposure to commodity price risk and monitor the actual and expected spread between forward selling prices and purchase costs and processing and shipping expense. Sales contracts are based on prices negotiated with our customers, and generally orders are placed 30 to 60 days ahead of the shipment date. However, financial results may be negatively impacted when forward selling prices fall more quickly than we can adjust purchase prices or when customers fail to meet their contractual obligations. We assess the net realizable value of inventory (“NRV”) each quarter based upon contracted sales orders and estimated future selling prices. Based on contracted sales and estimates of future selling prices at February 28,November 30, 2014,, a 10% decrease in the selling price per ton of finished steel products would have caused an NRV inventory write down of $2$3 million at SMB. A 10% decrease in the selling price of inventory would not have had a material NRV impact on MRB or APB at February 28, 2014.as of November 30, 2014.
Interest Rate Risk
There have been no material changes to our disclosure regarding interest rate risk set forth in Item 7A. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 20132014.
Credit Risk
As of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 2013, 36%2014, 44% and 49%39%, respectively, of our trade accounts receivable balance was covered by letters of credit. Of the remaining balance as of February 28,November 30, 2014 and August 31, 2014, 97%96% was less than 60 days past due, compared to 95% as of August 31, 2013.due.
Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
We are exposed to foreign currency exchange rate risk, mainly associated with sales transactions and related accounts receivable denominated in the U.S. Dollar by our Canadian subsidiary with a functional currency of the Canadian Dollar. In certain instances, we use derivatives to manage some portion of this risk. Our derivatives are agreements with independent counterparties that provide for payments based on a notional amount. As of February 28,November 30, 2014, all of our derivative transactions were related to actual or anticipated economic transactions in the normal course of business. As of February 28, 2014, we had six individual foreign exchange forward contracts for a total notional amount of $41 million, which have various settlement dates through September 30, 2014. A change in foreign exchange rates by 10% would have changed the fair value of these contracts reported in our Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets by $4$5 million at February 28,November 30, 2014.

ITEM 4.CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Disclosure Controls and Procedures
We maintain disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”)) that are designed to ensure that information we are required to disclose in the reports we file or submit under the Exchange Act is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified by the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosures. Any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. Our management, with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, has completed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures. Based on this evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have concluded that, as of February 28,November 30, 2014, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective at the reasonable assurance level.
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
There was no change in our internal control over financial reporting (as that term is defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Exchange Act) during our most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

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PART II. OTHER INFORMATION
 
ITEM 1.LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
See Note 65 - Commitments and Contingencies in the Notes to the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements in Part I, Item I, incorporated by reference herein.

In fiscal 2013, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts advised us of alleged violations of environmental requirements, including but not limited to those related to air emissions and hazardous waste management, at our operations in the Commonwealth. We have been discussing resolution of the alleged violations with the Commonwealth representatives and have reached an agreement in principle to resolve certain of the alleged violations. No enforcement proceeding has been filed to date and we do not believe that the outcome of this matter will be material to our financial position, results of operations, cash flows or liquidity.

The State of California and the Alameda County District Attorney are investigating alleged violations of environmental requirements, including but not limited to those related to air emissions and hazardous waste management, at one of our operations in the State. We have been discussing resolution of the alleged violations with the government representatives and have reached an agreement in principle to resolve certain of the alleged violations. No enforcement proceedings have been filed to date and we do not believe that the outcome of this investigation will be material to our financial position, results of operations, cash flows or liquidity.

ITEM 1A.RISK FACTORS
There have been no material changes to our risk factors reported or new factors identified since the filing of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended August 31, 20132014, which was filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 29, 2013.28, 2014.

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ITEM 6.EXHIBITS
Exhibit NumberExhibit Description
10.1*Form of Long-Term Incentive Award Agreement under the 1993 Stock Incentive Plan used for awards granted in fiscal 2015.
10.2*Fiscal 2015 Annual Performance Bonus Program for Tamara L. Lundgren.
31.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
31.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
32.1Certification of Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
32.2Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350 as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
  
101The following financial information from Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc.’s Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended February 28,November 30, 2014, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013, (ii) Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of February 28,November 30, 2014, and August 31, 2013,2014, (iii) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)Loss for the three and six months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013; (iv) Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the sixthree months ended February 28,November 30, 2014 and 2013; and (v) the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.
 

* Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
  SCHNITZER STEEL INDUSTRIES, INC.
  (Registrant)
    
Date:April 3, 2014January 8, 2015By:/s/ Tamara L. Lundgren
   Tamara L. Lundgren
   President and Chief Executive Officer
    
Date:April 3, 2014January 8, 2015By:/s/ Richard D. Peach
   Richard D. Peach
   Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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