UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, DC 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 


(Mark One)

xQUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2003MARCH 31, 2004

 

¨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 1-9533

 


 

WORLD FUEL SERVICES CORPORATION

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 


Florida 59-2459427

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification No.)

9800 N.W. 41st Street, Suite 400

Miami, Florida

 33178
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)

 

Registrant’s Telephone Number, including area code: (305) 428-8000

 


 

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  ¨.

 

APPLICABLE ONLY TO CORPORATE ISSUERS:Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is an accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-12 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  x    No  ¨

 

The registrant had a total of 10,784,00011,212,000 shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per share, net of treasury stock, outstanding as of November 5, 2003.May 6, 2004.

 



TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

   Page

Part I. Financial Information   

Item 1.

Financial Statements

   
  

General

  1
  

Forward-Looking Statements

  1
  

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 (Unaudited) and December 31, 20022003

  2
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Income (Unaudited) for the three and nine months ended September 30,March 31, 2004 and 2003 and September 30, 2002

  3
  

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Unaudited) for the ninethree months ended September 30,March 31, 2004 and 2003 and September 30, 2002

  4
  

Notes to the Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited)

  6

Item 2.

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

  1012

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

  1917

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

  1918
Part II. Other Information   

Item 1.

Legal Proceedings

  2118

Item 2.

Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

  2118

Item 3.

Defaults Upon Senior Securities

  2118

Item 4.

Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

  2118

Item 5.

Other Information

  2118

Item 6.

Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K

  2219

Signatures

  2320


Part I

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

General

 

The following unaudited, condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of World Fuel Services Corporation and Subsidiaries have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q and, therefore, omit or condense certain footnotes and other information normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. In the opinion of management, all adjustments necessary for a fair presentation of the financial information for the interim periods reported have been made. Results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004 will not be necessarily indicative of the results for the entire fiscal year. The condensed consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in this Form 10-Q should be read in conjunction with the audited consolidated financial statements and notes thereto included in the TransitionAnnual Report on Form 10-K (“10-K Report”) for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002.2003. World Fuel Services Corporation and Subsidiaries are collectively referred to in this Form 10-Q as “we,” “our” and “us.” Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to the current period presentation.

 

Forward-Looking Statements

 

This report includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. We intend the forward-looking statements to be covered by the safe harbor provisions for forward-looking statements in these sections. All statements regarding our expected financial position and operating results, our business strategy, our financing plans and forecasted demographic and economic trends relating to our industry are forward-looking statements. These statements can sometimes be identified by our use of forward-looking words such as “may,” “will,” “anticipate,” “estimate,” “expect,” or “intend” and similar expressions. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. We cannot promise you that our expectations in such forward-looking statements will turn out to be correct. Factors that impact such forward looking statements include, but are not limited to, quarterly fluctuations in results; the management of growth; fluctuations in world oil prices or foreign currency; changes in political, economic, regulatory or environmental conditions; the loss of key customers, suppliers or members of senior management; uninsured losses; competition; credit risk associated with accounts and notes receivable; and other risks detailed in this report and in our other Securities and Exchange Commission filings. A more detailed description of the principal risks in our business is set forth in “Risk Factors” in our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002.2003. We undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events, or otherwise.

Page 1 of 20


WORLD FUEL SERVICES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)In thousands, except per share data)

 

  As of

   As of

 
  

September 30,

2003


  

December 31,

2002


   March 31,
2004


 December 31,
2003


 
  (Unaudited)      (Unaudited)   

Assets

        

Current assets:

        

Cash and cash equivalents

  $65,520  $57,776   $76,013  $76,256 

Accounts and notes receivable, net of allowance for bad debts of $11,710 and $11,112 at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively

   167,552   177,360 

Accounts and notes receivable, net of allowance for bad debts of $10,687 and $10,538 at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively

   245,600   192,119 

Inventories

   16,573   5,144    32,073   22,940 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

   27,460   22,300    33,245   19,706 

Receivable from aviation joint venture partner

   7,171   —   
  


 


  


 


Total current assets

   277,105   262,580    394,102   311,021 

Property and equipment, net

   7,032   6,874    6,630   6,963 

Other:

        

Goodwill, net of amortization of $3,490

   34,003   34,003 

Identifiable intangible asset, net of amortization of $644 and $368 at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively

   1,196   1,472 

Goodwill, net of amortization of $3,565 at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003

   36,860   36,860 

Identifiable intangible asset, net of amortization of $828 and $736 at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively

   1,012   1,104 

Other assets

   6,922   7,358    1,700   1,730 
  


 


  


 


  $326,258  $312,287   $440,304  $357,678 
  


 


  


 


Liabilities

        

Current liabilities:

        

Short-term debt

  $1,546  $2,527   $1,502  $1,600 

Accounts payable

   100,342   97,560    238,841   172,885 

Accrued expenses

   50,634   66,012    15,625   9,987 

Other current liabilities

   21,741   14,260    22,320   20,290 
  


 


  


 


Total current liabilities

   174,263   180,359    278,288   204,762 
  


 


  


 


Long-term liabilities

   8,872   4,198    4,629   4,537 
  


 


  


 


Commitments and contingencies

        

Stockholders’ Equity

        

Preferred stock, $1.00 par value; shares of 100 authorized, none issued

   —     —      —     —   

Common stock, $0.01 par value; shares of 25,000 authorized; shares of 12,765 issued and outstanding

   128   128 

Common stock, $0.01 par value; shares of 25,000 authorized; shares of 12,765 issued and outstanding at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003

   128   128 

Capital in excess of par value

   34,561   32,595    36,544   34,672 

Retained earnings

   128,162   114,334    138,106   132,976 

Unearned deferred compensation

   (2,987)  (1,886)   (2,474)  (2,788)

Treasury stock, at cost; shares of 1,988 and 2,071 at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively

   (16,741)  (17,441)

Treasury stock, at cost; shares of 1,771 and 1,973 at March 31, 2004 and and December 31, 2003, respectively

   (14,917)  (16,609)
  


 


  


 


   143,123   127,730    157,387   148,379 
  


 


  


 


  $326,258  $312,287   $440,304  $357,678 
  


 


  


 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

Page 2 of 20


WORLD FUEL SERVICES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(UNAUDITEDUnaudited - IN THOUSANDS, EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA)In thousands, except per share data)

 

  For the Three Months
Ended September 30,


  For the Nine Months
Ended September 30,


   For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


 
  2003

  2002

  2003

  2002

   2004

 2003

 

Revenue

  $652,301  $510,601  $1,956,219  $1,320,794   $911,797  $658,000 

Cost of revenue

   (627,766)  (490,467)  (1,878,891)  (1,259,408)   (884,866)  (630,689)
  


 


 


 


  


 


Gross profit

   24,535   20,134   77,328   61,386    26,931   27,311 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Operating expenses:

            

Salaries and wages

   (9,198)  (7,501)  (29,943)  (23,215)   (10,248)  (10,098)

Executive severance charges

   —     (4,492)  —     (4,492)

Provision for bad debts

   (1,535)  (805)  (5,473)  (2,130)   (885)  (2,701)

Other

   (6,638)  (6,231)  (22,049)  (18,192)   (8,088)  (7,594)
  


 


 


 


  


 


   (17,371)  (19,029)  (57,465)  (48,029)   (19,221)  (20,393)
  


 


 


 


  


 


Income from operations

   7,164   1,105   19,863   13,357    7,710   6,918 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Other income (expense), net:

         

Other (expense) income, net:

   

Interest income, net

   194   280   448   772    84   142 

Non-recurring charge

   —     (1,577)  —     (1,577)

Other, net

   (111)  (240)  (136)  (939)   91   (395)
  


 


 


 


  


 


   83   (1,537)  312   (1,744)   175   (253)
  


 


 


 


  


 


Income (loss) before income taxes

   7,247   (432)  20,175   11,613 

Income tax (provision) benefit

   (1,713)  1,179   (3,930)  (1,987)

Income before income taxes

   7,885   6,665 

Provision for income taxes

   (1,822)  (1,397)
  


 


   6,063   5,268 

Minority interest

   (109)  —   
  


 


 


 


  


 


Net income

  $5,534  $747  $16,245  $9,626   $5,954  $5,268 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Basic earnings per share

  $0.52  $0.07  $1.53  $0.93   $0.55  $0.50 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Basic weighted average shares

   10,631   10,468   10,604   10,401    10,805   10,584 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Diluted earnings per share

  $0.49  $0.07  $1.46  $0.89   $0.52  $0.48 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Diluted weighted average shares

   11,204   10,876   11,123   10,843    11,485   11,034 
  


 


 


 


  


 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.statements

Page 3 of 20


WORLD FUEL SERVICES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(UNAUDITEDUnaudited - IN THOUSANDS)In thousands)

 

  

For the Nine Months

Ended September 30,


   For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


 
  2003

  2002

   2004

 2003

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

        

Net income

  $16,245  $9,626   $5,954  $5,268 
  


 


  


 


Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities -

     

Provision for bad debts

   5,473   2,130 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities - Provision for bad debts

   841   2,701 

Depreciation and amortization

   3,038   2,059    792   878 

Deferred income tax benefit

   (1,276)  (149)

Non-recurring charge

   —     1,577 

Earnings from aviation joint ventures, net

   (375)  (321)

Deferred income tax benefits

   (241)  (37)

Earnings from aviation joint venture, net

   —     (381)

Unearned deferred compensation amortization

   620   358    274   157 

Other non-cash operating charges

   353   250    4   201 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

        

Accounts and notes receivable

   4,335   (56,645)   (54,322)  (8,254)

Inventories

   (11,429)  (3,941)   (9,132)  (9,206)

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

   (2,680)  (8,097)   (13,540)  (302)

Receivable from aviation joint venture partner

   (7,171)  —   

Other assets

   84   (467)   29   (262)

Accounts payable and accrued expenses

   (12,620)  62,732    71,575   (14,028)

Other current liabilities

   7,659   834    3,964   2,140 

Deferred compensation

   264   (1,499)

Deferred compensation and other long-term liabilities

   1,831   301 
  


 


  


 


Total adjustments

   (6,554)  (1,179)   (5,096)  (26,092)
  


 


  


 


Net cash provided by operating activities

   9,691   8,447 

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

   858   (20,824)
  


 


  


 


Cash flows from investing activities:

        

Capital expenditures

   (2,635)  (1,455)   (366)  (994)

Payment for acquisition of business

   —     (5,461)
  


 


  


 


Net cash used in investing activities

   (2,635)  (6,916)   (366)  (994)
  


 


  


 


Cash flows from financing activities:

        

Dividends paid on common stock

   (2,393)  (2,346)   (828)  (797)

Purchases of treasury stock

   —     (1,978)

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

   608   1,891    1,693   166 

Borrowings under revolving credit facility, net

   5,000   5,000    —     16,000 

Repayment of debt

   (2,527)  (4,944)   (1,600)  (1,527)
  


 


  


 


Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

   688   (2,377)

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

   (735)  13,842 
  


 


  


 


Discontinued operations

     

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

   7,744   (846)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents

   (243)  (7,976)

Cash and cash equivalents, at beginning of period

   57,776   56,179    76,256   57,776 
  


 


  


 


Cash and cash equivalents, at end of period

  $65,520  $55,333   $76,013  $49,800 
  


 


  


 


Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:

     

Cash paid during the period for:

     

Interest

  $330  $787 
  


 


Income taxes

  $4,994  $5,938 
  


 


(Continued)(Continued) 

 

(Continued)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

Page 4 of 20


WORLD FUEL SERVICES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(UNAUDITED)(Unaudited - In thousands)

(Continued)

 

We paid cash and issued notes payable in connection with certain acquisitions of businesses accounted for under the purchase method during the nine months ended September 30, 2002. There were no acquisitions during the nine months ended September 30, 2003. The following reconciles the fair values of the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and promissory notes issued with cash paid (in thousands):

     

For the Nine Months

Ended September 30,


 
           2003      

    2002

 

Accounts receivable

    $—      $18,754 

Prepaid and other current assets

     —       232 

Goodwill

     —       4,292 

Identifiable intangible assets

     —       1,840 

Short-term debt

     —       (1,500)

Promissory notes, short-term portion

     —       (952)

Accounts payable

     —       (14,666)

Accrued expenses

     —       (462)

Income tax payable

     —       (29)

Promissory notes, long-term portion

     —       (2,048)
     

    


Cash paid

    $—      $5,461 
     

    


   For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


   2004

  2003

Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information:

        

Cash paid during the period for:

        

Interest

  $197  $16
   

  

Income taxes

  $1,528  $1,691
   

  

 

Supplemental Schedule of Noncash Investing and Financing Activities:

 

Cash dividends declared, but not yet paid, totaled $821$825 thousand and $791$803 thousand at September 30,March 31, 2004 and March 31, 2003, and 2002, respectively, and were paid in OctoberApril 2004 and April 2003, and 2002, respectively.

In connection with an acquisition of business in January 2002, we assumed short-term debt of $1.5 million and issued a $3.3 million non-interest bearing promissory note, which was discounted to $3.0 million using an interest rate of approximately 5.0%, payable annually over three years through January 2005.

 

During the ninethree months ended September 30,March 31, 2003, in connection with the construction of leasehold improvements at our new corporate office, we recorded leasehold improvements and its related deferred rental credit of $315 thousand, which was paid by the landlord as an office construction allowance. For our new corporate office, we received office construction allowance totaling $1.2 million, which was recorded asThe related deferred rental credit andwas included in Long-term liabilities. DeferredThe deferred rental credit is being amortized on a straight-line basis over the lease period of 10 years for the new corporate office.

 

During the nine months ended September 30, 2003, we recorded Unearned deferred compensation totaling $1.7 million relating to shares of restricted common stock granted to our employees and options granted to both our employees and non-employee directors under the 2001 Omnibus Plan. Unearned deferred compensation was recorded based on the grant date and is being amortized over the minimum vesting period of each individual stock and/or option grant.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

Page 5 of 20


WORLD FUEL SERVICES CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)(Interim period data are Unaudited)

 

(1) Summary of1. Recent Acquisitions and Significant Accounting Policies

 

Recent Acquisition

On April 2, 2004 (the “Closing Date”), we acquired all of the outstanding shares (the “THL Shares”) of Tramp Holdings Limited (“THL”) and the shares of Tramp Group Limited, a subsidiary of THL, which were not otherwise held by THL (the “TGL Shares”). The aggregate purchase price for the THL Shares and the TGL Shares was approximately $83.8 million, including acquisition cost of approximately $500 thousand, and may increase or decrease subject to certain post-closing adjustments. The aggregate purchase price will be paid in cash, of which approximately $75.5 million was paid on the Closing Date and the remaining payment will be made in accordance with the THL Shares acquisition agreement. The Tramp group of companies primarily sells and markets marine fuel services. The acquisition was funded through our cash reserves and borrowings under our existing $100.0 million syndicated revolving credit facility, as amended on March 31, 2004. See Exhibit 10.1 for the amendment to credit agreement.

Significant Accounting Policies

Except as described below, the significant accounting polices followed for quarterly financial reporting are the same as those disclosed in Note 1 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements included in our 10-K Report for the nine monthsfiscal year ended December 31, 2002.2003.

 

(2) DebtBasis of Consolidation

 

AsThe accompanying consolidated financial statements and related notes to the condensed consolidated financial statements include our accounts, those of September 30,our majority owned or controlled subsidiaries and those of our aviation joint venture, after elimination of all significant intercompany accounts, transactions, and profits. Prior to January 2004, we used the equity method of accounting to record our share of the earnings and losses of our aviation joint venture.

Recent Accounting Pronouncement

In January 2003, we borrowed $5.0 millionthe Financial Accounting Standard Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation No. 46 (“FIN No. 46”), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities.” FIN No. 46 expands upon and issued lettersstrengthens existing accounting guidance that addresses when a company should include in its financial statements the assets, liabilities and activities of credit of $16.2 million.another entity. A variable interest entity is a corporation, partnership, trust, or any other legal structure used for business purposes that either (a) does not have equity investors with voting rights or (b) has equity investors that do not provide sufficient financial resources for the entity to support its activities. FIN No. 46 requires a variable interest entity to be consolidated by a company if that company is subject to a majority of these lettersthe risk of credit, providedloss from the variable interest entity’s activities or is entitled to certain suppliers underreceive a majority of the normal courseentity’s residual returns or both. The consolidation requirements of business, expire within one year from their issuance. Expiring lettersFIN No. 46 apply immediately to variable interest entities created after January 31, 2003. We determined that we do not have any variable interest entities created after January 31, 2003. In December 2003, FASB revised FIN No. 46, which deferred the effective date for the consolidation requirements for variable interest entities, other than special-purpose entities, created before February 1, 2003, to the period ending after March 15, 2004. Accordingly, effective January 2004, we consolidated the financial position of credit are renewedour aviation joint venture and its results of operations, after elimination of all significant intercompany accounts, transactions, and profits. The implementation of FIN No. 46 did not have any significant effect on an as needed basis.our consolidated financial position or our consolidated results of operations. See Note 6 for additional information.

 

Our debt consisted of the following (in thousands):Reclassifications

 

   As of

   September 30,
2003


  December 31,
2002


Borrowings on revolving credit facility

  $5,000  $—  

Promissory notes issued in connection with business acquisitions, including the investment in aviation joint venture: 7.0% promissory note, payable annually through April 2003 with the last installment paid in April 2003.

   —     1,000

Non-interest bearing promissory note of $2.5 million, payable annually through January 2006, net of unamortized imputed discount (at 9.0%) of $141 thousand and $226 thousand at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively.

   1,360   1,774

Non-interest bearing promissory note of $3.3 million, payable annually through January 2005, net of unamortized imputed discount (at 5.0%) of $77 thousand and $152 thousand at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively.

   2,123   3,074
   

  

Total Debt

  $8,483  $5,848
   

  

Short-term Debt

  $1,547  $2,527
   

  

Long-term Debt

  $6,936  $3,321
   

  

Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to current year’s presentation.

 

AsPage 6 of September 30, 2003, the aggregate annual maturities of debt, net of unamortized imputed discount, are as follows (in thousands):20

For the Twelve Months Ending September 30,


   

2004

  $1,547

2005

   1,469

2006

   5,467
   

   $8,483
   


(3)2. Comprehensive Income

 

There were no significant items of other comprehensive income, and thus, net income is equal to comprehensive income for all periods presented.

 

(4)3. Earnings Per Share

 

Basic earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average number of common shares outstanding. Diluted earnings per share are based on the sum of the weighted average number of common shares outstanding, non-vested restricted common stock and common stock equivalents arising out of employee stock options and non-employee stock options and warrants. Our net income is the same for basic and diluted earnings per share calculations.

Shares used to calculate earnings per share are as follows (in thousands):

 

  For the Three Months
Ended September 30,


  For the Nine Months
Ended September 30,


  For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


  2003

  2002

  2003

  2002

  2004

  2003

Basic weighted average shares

  10,631  10,468  10,604  10,402  10,805  10,584

Restricted stock weighted average shares

  147  69  140  52  146  116

Common stock equivalents

  426  339  379  389  534  334
  
  
  
  
  
  

Diluted weighted average shares used in the calculation of diluted earnings per share

  11,204  10,876  11,123  10,843  11,485  11,034
  
  
  
  
  
  

Weighted average shares subject to stock options and warrants included in the determination of common stock equivalents for the calculation of diluted earnings per share

  1,372  972  1,288  1,084  1,508  1,101
  
  
  
  
  
  

Weighted average shares subject to stock options which were not included in the calculation of diluted earnings per share because their impact is antidilutive

  275  353  149  353  —    171
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

(5)4. Employee and Non-Employee Director Stock Options

 

Effective April 1, 2002, we adopted the accounting provision of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” as amended by SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 123,” to account for stock options granted to our employees and non-employee directors using the prospective method. Under the fair value recognition provision, as of the grant date, we recorded the fair value of the stock options granted as Unearned deferred compensation, which is amortized over the minimum vesting period of each individual award as compensation cost. For stock options granted prior to April 1, 2002, we continued using the intrinsic value method of Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employee,” and related interpretations. Accordingly, no compensation expense has been recognized for such stock options when the exercise price was at or above market price of our common stock on the date of grant.

Page 7 of 20


As required, the following table reflects pro forma net income and

earnings per share if the fair value based method had been applied to all outstanding and unvested awards in each period (in thousands, except earnings per share):

 

  For the Three
Months Ended
September 30,


  For the Nine
Months Ended
September 30,


   For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


 
  2003

  2002

  2003

  2002

   2004

 2003

 

Net income:

            

Net income, as reported

  $5,534  $747  $16,245  $9,626   $5,954  $5,268 

Add: Stock-based employee and non-employee director compensation expense included in reported net income, net of related tax effects

   162   72   384   222    170   97 

Deduct: Total stock-based employee and non-employee director compensation expense determined under fair value based method for all awards, net of related tax effects

   (181)  (100)  (441)  (333)   (180)  (116)
  


 


 


 


  


 


Pro forma net income

  $5,515  $719  $16,188  $9,515   $5,944  $5,249 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Basic earnings per share:

            

As reported

  $0.52  $0.07  $1.53  $0.93   $0.55  $0.50 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Pro forma

  $0.52  $0.07  $1.53  $0.91   $0.55  $0.50 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Diluted earnings per share:

            

As reported

  $0.49  $0.07  $1.46  $0.89   $0.52  $0.48 
  


 


 


 


  


 


Pro forma

  $0.49  $0.07  $1.46  $0.88   $0.52  $0.48 
  


 


 


 


  


 


 

(6)5. Deferred Compensations Plans

 

In September 2003, the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors adopted a Long Term Incentive Compensation Plan (“LTIP”) underUnder the terms of whichthe 2003 Executive Incentive Plan, our senior executives will beare eligible to receive long term incentive award (“LTIP award”) grants pursuant to which they will receive cash awards upon achievement of long-term performance goals. Achievement of performance goals will beis measured over a series of rolling three yearthree-year performance periods, with the periods for the first periodtwo award grants commencing onin January 1, 2003. The plan is2003 and January 2004, respectively. LTIP awards are designed to reward strong financial performance on a sustained basis over a period of years, as measured by the Compound Average Annual Growth Rates (“CAGR”) in net income, as defined in the LTIP document.plan. Target awards for the first two award grants are $750,000$750 thousand each for the Company’sour Chief Executive Officer and Chief FinancialOperating Officer, and $200,000$200 thousand each for the other three senior executives. The executives would earn 50% of the target award if the Company achieveswe achieve a 15% CAGR in net income over a three yearthe three-year performance period, and 100% of the target award if an 18% CAGR in net income is achieved over the applicable three years.year performance period. The maximum award is 200% of the target award, and would be earned if a CAGR in net income of at least 21% is achieved over the three yearthree-year performance period. Executives will haveIf and when each cash award is earned over each individual award’s three-year performance period, such cash award may be deferred at the executive’s option, of deferring awards,on such terms and conditions as may be approved by the Compensation Committee. The deferred amounts will earn interest at the prime rate,U.S. Prime Rate, with a maximum rate of 10% per year. The accrual for LTIP awards will beis made equally in the three yearover each award’s three-year performance period based on management’s estimate of the ultimate award to be earned by the senior executives at the end of each three yearthree-year performance period. As of September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, we have accrued approximately $200 thousand.$1.6 million for LTIP awards, which was included in Long-term liabilities in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Page 8 of 20


(7)6. Aviation Joint Venture

In December 2000, we entered into a joint venture with Signature Flight Support Corporation (“Signature”) through the acquisition of a 50% equity interest in PAFCO LLC (“PAFCO”) from Signature. We paid Signature $1.0 million in cash and a $2.5 million non-interest bearing note, payable over five years through January 2006. PAFCO markets aviation fuel and related services. The non-interest bearing promissory note was discounted at 9% and the discount of $558 thousand is being amortized as interest expense over a five-year term using the interest method. In accordance with PAFCO’s operating agreement, we are entitled to 80% of the income from PAFCO’s operations. The higher allocation percentage versus the ownership percentage is in consideration of the risks assumed by us with respect to credit losses on PAFCO’s accounts receivable. We are required to purchase, without recourse, PAFCO’s accounts receivable that are 120 days past due, subject to certain requirements. Net losses, including infrequent or unusual losses, and interest expense incurred by PAFCO, and any gain resulting from the liquidation of the venture, will be shared equally between Signature and us.

Prior to January 2004, we used the equity method of accounting to record our share of the earnings and losses of our aviation joint venture. In addition, the amortized interest expense on the non-interest bearing promissory note was also included in net earnings from aviation joint venture. In accordance with the implementation of FIN No. 46, effective January 2004, we consolidated the financial position of PAFCO and its results of operations, after elimination of all significant intercompany accounts, transactions, and profits. The following table summarizes PAFCO’s effect on our consolidated results of operations and financial position (in thousands):

   For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


   2004

  2003

Revenue

  $44,351  $—  
   


 

Gross profit

  $759  $—  
   


 

Income from operations

  $543  $—  
   


 

Other income

  $—    $381
   


 

Minority interest

  $(109) $—  
   


 

Net income

  $434  $381
   


 

   As of

   March 31,
2004


  December 31,
2003


Accounts and notes receivable

  $1,097  $—  
   

  

Inventories

  $8,205  $—  
   

  

Receivable from aviation joint venture partner

  $7,171  $—  
   

  

Total assets and total liabilities

  $17,100  $—  
   

  

The Receivable from aviation joint venture partner consisted primarily of accounts receivable due from Signature amounting to $7.4 million, net of certain payables to Signature of $138 thousand and minority interest payables to Signature of $109 thousand. The accounts receivable due from Signature resulted from PAFCO’s sale to Signature, which amounted to $26.5 million for the three months ended March 31, 2004. In addition to the PAFCO’s sales to Signature, in the normal course of business, we utilize Signature and Aircraft Service International Group (“ASIG”), a sister company of Signature, as subcontractors to provide various services to customers, including into-plane fueling at airports, and transportation and storage of fuel and fuel products. Such activities with Signature and ASIG were not considered to be significant.

Page 9 of 20


7. Business Segments

 

We market fuel and related services, and have two reportable operating segments: marine and aviation fuel services. In our marine fuel services business, we market marine fuel and related management services to a broad base of international shipping companies and to governmental and multilateral entities. Services include credit terms, 24-hour around-the-world service, fuel management services, and competitively priced fuel. In our

aviation fuel services business, we extend credit and provide around-the-world single-supplier convenience, 24- hour24-hour service, fuel management services, and competitively priced aviation fuel and other aviation related services to passenger, cargo and charter airlines, as well as to governmental and multilateral entities. We also offer flight plans and weather reports to our corporate customers.

 

Performance measurement and resource allocation for the reportable operating segments are based on many factors. One of the primary financial measures used is income from operations. We employ shared-service concepts to realize economies of scale and efficient use of resources. The costs of shared services and other corporate center operations managed on a common basis are allocated to the segments based on usage, where possible, or on other factors according to the nature of the activity. The accounting policies of the reportable operating segments are the same as those described in the Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. (See Note 1).

 

Page 10 of 20


Information concerning our operations by business segment is as follows (in thousands):

 

  For the Three Months
Ended September 30,


  For the Nine Months
Ended September 30,


   For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


 
  2003

  2002

  2003

  2002

   2004

 2003

 

Revenue

            

Marine fuel services

  $399,362  $340,472  $1,213,911  $929,609   $478,625  $397,443 

Aviation fuel services

   252,939   170,129   742,308   391,185    433,172   260,557 
  


 


 


 


  $652,301  $510,601  $1,956,219  $1,320,794   


 


  


 


 


 


  $

911,797

 

 $

658,000

 

Income from operations

            

Marine fuel services

  $4,411  $2,638  $14,118  $9,370   $4,390  $4,604 

Aviation fuel services

   6,022   4,620   15,741   14,018    6,850   5,022 

Corporate overhead

   (3,269)  (6,153)  (9,996)  (10,031)   (3,530)  (2,708)
  


 


 


 


  


 


  $7,164  $1,105  $19,863  $13,357   $7,710  $6,918 
  


 


 


 


  


 


  As of

 
  March 31,
2004


 December 31,
2003


 

Accounts and notes receivable, net

   
   

Marine fuel services, net of allowance for bad debts of $5,740 and $5,704 at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively

  $153,677  $127,717 

Aviation fuel services, net of allowance for bad debts of $4,947 and $4,834 at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively

   91,923   64,402 
  


 


  $245,600  $192,119 
  


 


Goodwill and identifiable intangible asset:

   
   

Marine fuel services, net of accumulated amortization of $3,258 and $3,166 at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, respectively

  $29,663  $29,755 

Aviation fuel services, net of accumulated amortization of $1,134 at March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003

   8,209   8,209 
  


 


  $37,872  $37,964 
  


 


Total assets

   

Marine fuel services

  $223,852  $194,263 

Aviation fuel services

   160,963   134,180 

Corporate

   55,489   29,235 
  


 


  $440,304  $357,678 
  


 


 

   As of

   September 30,
2003


  December 31,
2002


Accounts and notes receivable, net

        

Marine fuel services, net of allowance for bad debts of $6,102 and $5,319 at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively

  $111,043  $118,548

Aviation fuel services, net of allowance for bad debts of $5,608 and $5,793 at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively

   56,509   58,812
   

  

   $167,552  $177,360
   

  

Goodwill, identifiable intangible asset, and investment goodwill:

        

Marine fuel services, net of accumulated amortization of $3,074 and $2,798 at September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002, respectively

  $29,847  $30,123

Aviation fuel services, net of accumulated amortization of $1,134 for each period presented

   8,209   8,209
   

  

   $38,056  $38,332
   

  

Total assets

        

Marine fuel services

  $172,337  $187,155

Aviation fuel services

   139,490   108,999

Corporate

   14,431   16,133
   

  

   $326,258  $312,287
   

  

Page 11 of 20


Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

 

The following discussion should be read in conjunction with “Item 1. Financial Statements” appearing elsewhere in this Form 10-Q, as well as our Form 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002.2003.

 

Reportable Segments

 

We have two reportable operating businesses: marine and aviation fuel services. In our marine fuel services business, we market marine fuel and related management services to a broad base of international shipping companies and to governmental and multilateral entities. Services include credit terms, 24-hour around-the-world service, fuel management services, and competitively priced fuel. In our aviation fuel services business, we extend credit and provide around-the-world single-supplier convenience, 24-hour service, fuel management services, and competitively priced aviation fuel and other aviation related services to passenger, cargo and charter airlines, as well as to governmental and multilateral entities. We also offer flight plans and weather reports to our corporate customers.

 

Performance measurement and resource allocation for the reportable operating segments are based on many factors. Two of our primary financial measures used are revenue and income from operations. Our marine fuel business accounted for 61%approximately 52% and 67%60% of our total revenue for the three months ended September 30,first quarter of 2004 and 2003, and 2002, respectively, and 62% and 70% of our total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Our aviation fuel business accounted for the remaining 39%48% and 33%40% of total revenue for the three months ended September 30,first quarter of 2004 and 2003, and 2002, respectively, and 38% and 30% of our total revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002, respectively. The shift of the revenue percentage between our marine and aviation segment is primarily due to new commercial and government businesses and increases in both fuel management business and wholesale activities. Excluding corporate overhead, our marine fuel services and our aviation fuel services contributed 42%39% and 58%61%, respectively, of operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, as compared to 36%48% and 64%52% for the three months ended September 30, 2002,first quarter of 2003, respectively. For the nine months ended September 30, 2003, excluding corporate overhead, our marine and aviation fuel services contributed 47% and 53%, respectively, of operating income. As a comparison, our marine and aviation fuel services contributed 40% and 60% of operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, respectively. The shift of the contribution percentage of operating income between our marine and aviation segments is due to improvement of our gross profit in marine relating, in part, to the economic recovery of the shipping industry.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations are based upon the consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The preparation of these financial statements requires us to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. On an on-going basis, we evaluate our estimates, including those related to bad debts, income taxes, goodwill and identifiable intangible asset, and certain accrued liabilities. We base our estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different assumptions or conditions.

 

We have identified the policies below as critical to our business operations and the understanding of our results of operations. For a detailed discussion on the application of these and other accounting policies, see Note 1 of the “Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements” in Item 1 of our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002.

2003.

Revenue Recognition

 

Revenue is generally recorded in the period when the sale is made or as the services are performed. We contract with unrelated third parties to provide the fuel and/or deliver most services. This causes delays in receiving the necessary information for invoicing to our customers. Accordingly, revenue may be recognized in a period subsequent to when the actual delivery of fuel or service was performed. This policy does not result in reported results that are materially different than if the revenue were recognized in the period of actual delivery or performance.

 

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Bad Debts

 

Credit extension, monitoring and collection are performed by each of our business segments. Each segment has a credit committee. The credit committees are responsible for approving credit limits above certain amounts, setting and maintaining credit standards, and ensuring the overall quality of the credit portfolio. We perform ongoing credit evaluations of our customers and adjust credit limits based upon payment history and the customer’s current credit worthiness, as determined by our review of our customer’s credit information. We extend credit on an unsecured basis to many of our customers.

 

Page 12 of 20


We continuously monitor collections and payments from our customers and maintain a provision for estimated credit losses based upon our historical experience and any specific customer collection issues that we have identified. Accounts receivable are reduced by an allowance for amounts that may become uncollectible in the future. Such allowances can be either specific to a particular customer or general to all customers in each of our two business segments. As of September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2002,2003, we had accounts and notes receivable of $167.6$245.6 million and $177.4$192.1 million, respectively, net of allowance for bad debts. The allowance for bad debt asdebts of September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2003 was $11.7$10.7 million and $11.1$10.5 million, respectively.

 

We believe the level of our allowance for bad debts is reasonable based on our experience and our analysis of the net realizable value of our trade receivables at September 30, 2003.March 31, 2004. We cannot guarantee that we will continue to experience the same credit loss rates that we have experienced in the past since adverse changes in the marine and aviation industries, or changes in the liquidity or financial position of our customers, could have a material adverse effect on the collectability of our accounts receivable and our future operating results. If credit losses exceed established allowances, our results of operation and financial condition may be adversely affected. For additional information on the credit risks inherent in our business, see “Risk Factors” in Item 1 of our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002.2003.

 

Goodwill and Identifiable Intangible Asset and Investment Goodwill

 

Goodwill and investment goodwill representrepresents our cost or investment in excess of net assets, including identifiable intangible asset, of the acquired companies. Investment goodwill of $2.9 million was included in Other assets incompanies and the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2003 and December 31, 2002.aviation joint venture. The identifiable intangible asset for customer relations existing at the date of acquisition was recorded and is being amortized over its useful life of five years. We accounted for goodwill and identifiable intangible asset and investment goodwill in accordance with Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” Among other provisions, SFAS No. 142 states that goodwill shall not be amortized prospectively. Accordingly, for the three and nine months ended September 30,March 31, 2004 and December 31, 2003, and 2002, no goodwill amortization was recorded. For each of the identifiable intangible asset,three months ended March 31, 2004 and 2003, we amortized $92 thousand and $276 thousand for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2003.of our identifiable intangible asset.

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 142, goodwill must be reviewed annually (or more frequently under certain circumstances) for impairment. The initial step of the goodwill impairment test compares the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying amount, including goodwill. Based on results of these comparisons, goodwill in each of our reporting units is not considered impaired. Accordingly, no impairment charges were recognized.

Income Taxes

 

Our provision for income taxes was determined by taxable jurisdiction. We file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return, which includes all of our U.S. companies. Our non-U.S. companies file income tax returns in their respective countries of incorporation, as required. We do not provide for U.S. federal and state income taxes, and non-U.S. withholding taxes on the undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. companies. The distribution of these earnings would result in additional U.S. federal and state income taxes to the extent they are not offset by foreign tax credits and non-U.S. withholding taxes. It is our intention to reinvest undistributed earnings of our non-U.S. companies indefinitely and thereby postpone their remittance. Accordingly, no provision has been made for taxes that could result from the remittance of such earnings.

 

We provide for deferred income taxes on temporary differences arising from assets and liabilities whose bases are different for financial reporting and U.S. federal, state and non-U.S. income tax purposes. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce deferred income tax assets when it is more likely than not that an income tax benefit will not be realized. No valuation allowance was recorded in the accompanying Consolidated Balance Sheets.

 

Results of Operations

 

Profit from our marine fuel services business is determined primarily by the volume and commission rate of brokering business generated and by the volume and gross profit achieved on sales, as well as the overall level of operating expenses, which may be significantly affected to the extent that we are required to provision for potential bad debts. Profit from our aviation fuel services business is directlyprimarily related to the volume and the gross profit achieved on sales, as well as the overall level of operating expenses, which may be significantly affected to the extent that we are required to provision for potential bad debts.

 

Page 13 of 20


Comparing the nine-month periods ended September 30,first quarter of 2004 and 2003, and 2002, our profitability was favorably impacted in 20032004 by increases in salesbusiness volume for both marine and aviation, and increases in thea lower provision for bad debts for 2004. Earnings were adversely affected by lower gross profit per metric ton tradedsold in marine and brokered in marine. In addition, included in the results for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 were two non-recurring charges totaling $6.1 million. The 2002 non-recurring charges consisted of 1) a $4.5 million executive severance charge, of which $3.7 million related to our former Chief Executive Officer and the remaining amounts were for our former Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, and two other executives, and 2) a $1.6 million charge for the settlement of the remaining balance on a court judgment against Donald F. Moorehead, Jr., who defaulted on his agreement to purchase EarthCare Company stock owned by us. We received the EarthCare Company stock in connection with the sale of our oil-recycling subsidiaries in February 2000. Earnings in 2003 were adversely affected by a decrease in gross profit per gallon sold in aviation, and increases in all three categories of expenses: ‘salaries and wages’, ‘provision for bad debts’ and ‘other operating expenses.’

The lower gross profit per gallon sold in aviation was primarily due to increased fuel management business and wholesale activities, which are higher credit quality and lower margin business and activities. Partially offsetting the impact of these lower margin activities on gross profit in aviation were new commercial and government businesses. The increase in salaries and wages was primarily due to new employees to support our business expansion, the front-end cost of some business process improvement initiatives, and payments and accruals for performance based incentive compensation payouts. Accrued incentive compensation accounts for the largest part of the salaries and wages increase. The increase in the provision for bad debts is primarily due to additional general provision for bad debts resulting from the write-off of receivables from two bankrupt international airlines. The increase in other operating expenses, was also primarily related to the business process improvement and business expansion initiatives, as well as to higher overall operating costs primarily relating to insurance, office rent, depreciation and amortization, independent directors’ compensation, and professional services, such as consulting and accounting.effective tax rates for 2004.

 

We may experience decreases in future sales volume and margins as a result of continued conflicts and instability in the Middle East, Asia and Latin America, and additional military actions in response to the terrorist

attacks of September 11th, as well as possible future terrorist activity and military conflicts. In addition, since the sharp decline in world oil prices soon after September 11th,2001, world oil prices have been very volatile. Wevolatile and we expect continued volatility in world oil prices as a result of the instability and conflicts in the Middle East. The volatility in world oil prices can adversely affect our customers’ business, and consequently our results of operations. See “Risk Factors” in Item 1 of our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002.2003.

 

Three Months Ended September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 Compared to Three Months Ended September 30, 2002March 31, 2003

 

Our revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 was $652.3$911.8 million, an increase of $141.7$253.8 million, or 27.8%38.6%, as compared to revenue of $510.6$658.0 million for the same periodfirst quarter of 2002.2003. Our revenue during these periods was attributable to the following segments (in thousands):

 

  For the Three Months
Ended September 30,


  For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


  2003

  2002

  2004

  2003

Marine fuel services

  $399,362  $340,472  $478,625  $397,443

Aviation fuel services

   252,939   170,129   433,172   260,557
  

  

  

  

  $652,301  $510,601  $911,797  $658,000
  

  

  

  

 

Our marine fuel services segment contributed $399.4$478.6 million in revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, an increase of $58.9$81.2 million, or 17.3%20.4%, over the corresponding period of 2002.the prior year. The increase in revenue was primarily due to a 6.7%37.0% increase in the volume of metric tons sold from 2003, partially offset by an 11.9% decrease in the average price per metric ton sold and a 10.7% increasefrom 2003. The growth in the volume of metric tons sold.sold was primarily due to strategic competitive pricing. Our aviation fuel services segment contributed $252.9$433.2 million in revenue for the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, an increase of $82.8$172.6 million, or 66.2%, as compared to the same periodfirst quarter of 2002.2003. The increase in revenue was due to ana 65.8% increase in the volumenumber of gallons of aviation fuel sold of 81.6 million gallons and a 1.1% increase in the average price per gallon sold.from 2003. The increase in aviation sales volume was due to new commercial and government businessesbusiness, as well as increasesgrowth in wholesale activities andthe fuel management business.businesses. Also contributing to the increase in revenue was the consolidation in the first quarter of 2004 of PAFCO, our aviation joint venture with Signature Flight Support Corporation. This accounting change stems from the implementation of the new accounting pronouncement regarding the consolidation of variable interest entities. See Note 1 to the condensed consolidated financial statements included herein for additional information.

 

Our gross profit of $24.5$26.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003 increased $4.4 million,first quarter of 2004 decreased slightly by $380 thousand, or 21.9%1.4%, as compared to the corresponding periodfirst quarter of 2002.2003. Our gross margin decreased slightly to 3.8%3.0% for the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, from 3.9%4.2% for the three months ended September 30, 2002.first quarter of 2003. Our marine fuel services segment achieved a 2.7%2.5% gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2003, an improvementfirst quarter of 13.1% over2004, a decrease from the same period3.6% gross margin achieved for the first quarter of 2002.2003. The increasedecline in our marine gross margin was largely due in part, to the economic recoveryhigher than normal level of gross profit per metric ton earned in 2003, as well as to shifts in the shipping industry from 2002.business mix. Our aviation fuel services business achieved a 5.4%3.5% gross margin for the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, as compared to 7.0%5.0% for the same periodfirst quarter of the prior year.2003. The decrease in aviation gross margin reflects increasesour volume growth in our wholesale activities andlower margin, high credit quality fuel management business, which are higher credit quality, lower margin activities and business.

 

Total operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 were $17.4$19.2 million, as compared to $19.0 million for the three months ended September 30, 2002, which included executive severance chargesa decrease of $4.5 million. Excluding the 2002 executive severance charges, total operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2003 would have increased $2.8$1.2 million, or 19.5%5.7%, as compared to the same periodfirst quarter of 2002.2003. The increasedecrease in operating expenses was in all three categories of expenses: salaries and wages,due to a lower provision for bad debts, partially offset by a 1.5% increase in salaries and wages and a 6.5% increase in other operating expenses. The increase in salaries and wages was primarily due to new employees to support our business expansion, the front-end cost of some business process improvement initiatives, and payments and accruals for performance based incentive compensation payouts. Accrued incentive compensation accounts for the largest part of the salaries and wages increase. The increase in the provision for bad debts is primarily due to additional general provision for bad debts resulting from the write-off of receivables from one bankrupt international airline. The increase in other operating expenses was also primarily relateddue to internal acquisition costs incurred and expensed during the first quarter of 2004 relating to the business process improvement and business expansion initiatives, as well as to higher overall operating costs primarily relating to depreciation and amortization, and professional services, such as consulting.purchase of the Tramp group of companies.

Page 14 of 20


Our income from operations for the three months ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 was $7.2$7.7 million, as compared to $1.1$6.9 million for the corresponding periodfirst quarter of the prior year. Included in the results for the three months ended September 30, 2002 was executive severance charges of $4.5 million. Excluding the 2002 executive severance charges, operating income for the three months ended September 30, 2003 increased $1.6 million, or 28.0%.2003. Income from operations during these periods was attributable to the following segments (in thousands):

 

  For the Three Months
Ended September 30,


   For the Three Months Ended
March 31,


 
  2003

  2002

   2004

 2003

 

Marine fuel services

  $4,411  $2,638   $4,390  $4,604 

Aviation fuel services

   6,022   4,620    6,850   5,022 

Corporate overhead

   (3,269)  (6,153)   (3,530)  (2,708)
  


 


  


 


  $7,164  $1,105   $7,710  $6,918 
  


 


  


 


 

The marine fuel services segment earned $4.4 million in income from operations for the three months ended September 30, 2003, an increasefirst quarter of $1.8 million,2004, a decrease of $214 thousand, or 67.2%4.6%, as compared to $2.6$4.6 million for the corresponding period of the prior year. This increasedecrease resulted primarily from a 32.7% increase16.5% decrease in gross profit, partially offset by highera 22.2% decrease in operating expenses. The decrease in marine operating expenses relatingwas attributed to lower provision for bad debts and salaries and wages, and other operating expenses.wages. The aviation fuel services segment’s income from operations was $6.0$6.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, an increase of $1.4$1.8 million, or 30.3%36.4%, as compared to the same periodfirst quarter of the prior year.2003. This improvement was mainly due to a higher$2 million increase in gross profit, partially offset by higher provision for bad debts.profit. Corporate overhead costs not charged to the business segments totaled $3.3$3.5 million for the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, as compared to $6.2$2.7 million during the same periodfirst quarter of the prior year. Excluding corporate’s 2002 executive severance charges,2003. The increase in corporate overhead for the three months ended September 30, 2003 increased $1.4 million as comparedcosts was mainly due to the corresponding period of the prior year.increases in salaries and wages and acquisition costs. For explanations of the increasesvariances in operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 as compared to the same period a year ago,first quarter of 2003, see the above discussion on operating expenses.

 

During the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, we reported $83$175 thousand in other income, net, non-operating income, as compared to other expense, net, non-operating expense of $1.5 million$253 thousand for the same periodfirst quarter of the prior year.2003. Included in other expense, net during the three months ended September 30, 2002first quarter of 2003 was a $1.6 million non-recurring chargeequity earnings from our PAFCO aviation joint venture of $381 thousand. Effective January 2004, the results of our aviation joint venture in PAFCO were consolidated into our results of operations. The adjusted positive variance of $809 thousand from the first quarter of 2003 to the first quarter of 2004 was primarily related to the settlement of the remaining balance on the Moorehead judgment. Excluding the 2002 non-recurring charge, there was no significant fluctuationnet foreign currency exchange gains in Mexico recorded in 2004 as opposed to net non-operating incomeforeign currency exchange losses in 2003. Foreign currency gains and losses in Mexico primarily stem from mismatches between the two three-month periods.our US dollar receivables and Mexican peso payables.

 

For the three months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, our effective tax rate was 23.6%23.1%, for an income tax provision of $1.7$1.8 million, as compared to an income tax benefit of $1.2 million for the three months ended September 30, 2002. During the three months ended September 30, 2002, we recorded income tax benefits totaling approximately $2.3 million relating to two non-recurring charges, as discussed above. Excluding the income tax benefit on these 2002 non-recurring items, we would have recorded21.0% and an income tax provision of approximately $1.1$1.4 million and our consolidated effective tax rate would have been approximately 20.5%.for the first quarter of 2003. This higher effective tax rateincrease is primarily relates toa result of changes in the specific levelsproportion of earnings subjectoperating income contributed by our various subsidiaries in different tax jurisdictions, each with their own effective tax rates.

Due to tax at different rates around the world.consolidation of our PAFCO aviation joint venture, we recorded minority interest of $109 thousand for the first quarter of 2004 relating to our joint venture partner’s share of the profit in such entity.

 

Net income and diluted earnings per share for the three months ended September 30, 2003first quarter of 2004 were $5.5$6.0 million and $0.49,$0.52, respectively, as compared to net income$5.3 million and diluted earnings per share for$0.48 during the three months ended September 30, 2002same quarter of $747 thousand and $0.07, respectively. Net income and diluted earnings per share for the three months ended September 30, 2002 were impacted by two non-recurring, after-tax charges totaling $3.8 million, or $0.34 per diluted share: 1) the charge of $2.8 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, related to executive severance, and 2) the charge of $970 thousand, or $0.09 per diluted share, related to the settlement of the remaining balance on the Moorehead judgment. Excluding the after-tax effect of these two non-recurring charges in 2002, net income increased $1.1 million, or 23.6%, and diluted earnings per share increased $0.08, or 19.5%.

Nine Months Ended September 30, 2003 Compared to Nine Months Ended September 30, 20022003.

 

Our revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 was $1.96 billion, an increase of $635.4 million, or 48.1%, as compared to revenue of $1.32 billion for the corresponding nine months of 2002. Our revenue during these periods was attributable to the following segments (in thousands):

   For the Nine Months
Ended September 30,


   2003

  2002

Marine fuel services

  $1,213,911  $929,609

Aviation fuel services

   742,308   391,185
   

  

   $1,956,219  $1,320,794
   

  

Our marine fuel services segment contributed $1.21 billion in revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, an increase of $284.3 million, or 30.6%, over the same period in 2002. The increase in revenue was primarily due to a 25.0% increase in the average price per metric ton sold and a 5.1% increase in the volume of metric tons sold. Our aviation fuel services segment contributed $742.3 million in revenue for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, an increase of $351.1 million as compared to the same period of the prior year. The increase in revenue was due to an increase in the volume sold of 303.0 million gallons and a 9.4% increase in the average price per gallon sold. The increase in aviation sales volume was due to new commercial and government businesses as well as increases in wholesale activities and fuel management business.

Our gross profit of $77.3 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 increased $15.9 million, or 26.0%, as compared to the corresponding nine months of 2002. Our gross margin decreased to 4.0% for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, from 4.6% for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. Our marine fuel services segment achieved a 3.2% gross margin for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, which increased slightly from 3.0% over the same period in 2002. Our aviation fuel services business achieved a 5.2% gross margin for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, as compared to 8.6% for the first nine months of 2002. The decrease in aviation gross margin reflects increases in our wholesale activities and fuel management business, which are higher credit quality, lower margin activities and business.

Total operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 were $57.5 million as compared to $48.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2002, which included executive severance charges of $4.5 million. Excluding the 2002 executive severance charges, total operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 would have increased $13.9 million, or 32.0%, as compared to the same period in 2002. The increase in operating expenses was in all three categories of expenses: salaries and wages, provision for bad debts and other operating expenses. The increase in salaries and wages was primarily due to new employees to support our business expansion, the front-end cost of some business process improvement initiatives, and payments and accruals for performance based incentive compensation payouts. Accrued incentive compensation accounts for the largest part of the salaries and wages increase. The increase in the provision for bad debts is primarily due to additional general provision for bad debts resulting from the write-off of receivables from two bankrupt international airlines. The increase in other operating expenses was also primarily related to the business process improvement and business expansion initiatives, as well as to higher overall operating costs primarily relating to insurance, office rent, depreciation and amortization, independent directors’ compensation, and professional services, such as consulting and accounting.

Our income from operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 was $19.9 million, as compared to $13.4 million for the corresponding period of the prior year. Included in the results for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 were executive severance charges of $4.5 million. Excluding the 2002 executive severance charges, operating income for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 increased $2.0 million, or 11.3%. Income from operations during these periods was attributable to the following segments (in thousands):

   For the Nine Months
Ended September 30,


 
   2003

  2002

 

Marine fuel services

  $14,118  $9,370 

Aviation fuel services

   15,741   14,018 

Corporate overhead

   (9,996)  (10,031)
   


 


   $19,863  $13,357 
   


 


The marine fuel services segment earned $14.1 million in income from operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, an increase of $4.7 million, or 50.7%, as compared to the corresponding period of 2002. This increase resulted primarily from a 39.4% increase in gross profit partially offset by higher operating expenses in all three categories of expenses. The aviation fuel services segment’s income from operations was $15.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, an increase of $1.7 million, or 12.3%, as compared to the same period in 2002. This improvement was due to a 14.9% growth in gross profit, partially offset by higher operating expenses in all three categories of expenses. Corporate overhead costs not charged to the business segments for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 and 2002 were $10.0 million. Excluding corporate’s 2002 executive severance charges, corporate overhead for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 increased $4.2 million as compared to the corresponding period of the prior year. For explanations of the increases in operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 as compared to the same period a year ago, see above discussion on operating expenses.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2003, we reported $312 thousand in net non-operating income, as compared to net non-operating expense of $1.7 million for the same period of the prior year. Included in the nine months of September 30, 2002 was a $1.6 million non-recurring charge related to the settlement of the remaining balance on the Moorehead judgment. Excluding the 2002 non-recurring charge, the positive variance of $479 thousand is primarily related to a net foreign exchange gain for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 as compared to a net foreign exchange loss for the same period in 2002. Partially offsetting the foreign exchange turnaround was a decrease in net interest income primarily relating to lower interest rates.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2003, our effective tax rate was 19.5%, for an income tax provision of $3.9 million, as compared to 17.1% with an income tax provision of $2.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. During the nine months ended September 30, 2002, we recorded income tax benefits totaling approximately $2.3 million relating to two non-recurring charges, as discussed above. Excluding the income tax benefit on these 2002 non-recurring items, we would have recorded an income tax provision of approximately $4.3 million for the first nine months of 2002 and our consolidated effective tax rate would have been approximately 24.5%. This lower tax rate for the nine-month ended September 30, 2003 period results from 2003 income tax benefits that stem from US operating losses at a tax rate of approximately 35% and increased operating income in lower tax foreign jurisdictions as well as lower statutory tax rates on certain types of foreign income.

Net income and diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2003 were $16.2 million and $1.46, respectively, as compared to net income and diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 of $9.6 million and $0.89, respectively. Net income and diluted earnings per share for the nine months ended September 30, 2002 were impacted by two non-recurring, after-tax charges totaling $3.8 million, or $0.34 per diluted share: 1) the charge of $2.8 million, or $0.25 per diluted share, related to executive severance, and 2) the charge of $970 thousand, or $0.09 per diluted share, related to the settlement of the remaining balance on the Moorehead judgment. Excluding the after-tax effect of these two non-recurring charges in 2002, net income increased $2.9 million, or 21.6%, and diluted earnings per share increased $0.23, or 18.7%.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

In our marine and aviation fuel businesses, the primary use of working capital is to finance receivables. We maintain aviation fuel inventories at certain locations in the United States, mostly for competitive reasons. Our marine and aviation fuel businesses historically have not required significant capital investment in fixed assets as we subcontract fueling services and maintain inventories at third party storage facilities. We have funded our operations primarily with cash flow generated from operations. As of September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, we had $65.5$76.0 million of cash and cash equivalents as compared to $57.8$76.3 million at December 31, 2002.2003.

 

We also have a revolving credit facility that permits borrowings of up to $40.0$100.0 million with a sublimit of $30.0$40.0 million for the issuance of letters of credit. Our available borrowings under the credit facility are reduced by the amount of outstanding letters of credit. The credit facility imposes certain operating and financial restrictions, including restrictions on the payment of dividends in excess of specified amounts. Our failure to comply with the obligations under the credit facility, including meeting certain financial ratios, could result in an event of default. An event of default, if not cured or waived, would permit acceleration of any outstanding indebtedness under the credit facility, impair our ability to receive advances and issue letters of credit, and may have a material adverse effect on us. As of September 30, 2003, we have borrowed $5.0 million and issued letters of credit totaling $16.2 millionMarch 31, 2004, had no borrowings under the credit facility. Letters of credit of $17.2 million were outstanding, at March 31, 2004, under the credit facility agreement.

 

Page 15 of 20


Net cash provided by continuing operating activities totaled $9.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, an increase of $1.2 million as compared to the corresponding nine months of 2002. The increase in cash flows from operating activities resulted from increases in net income and non-cash operating expenses, partially offset with an increase in net operating assets. The increase in non-cash operating expenses was primarily due to higher provision for bad debts and depreciation and amortization, partially offset with an increase in deferred income tax benefit as well as the 2002 non-recurring charge related to the settlement of the remaining balance on the Moorehead judgment.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2003, net cash used in investing activities was $2.6 million, a decrease of $4.3 million as compared to the same period in 2002. This decrease reflects the acquisition of the Oil Shipping group of companies in January 2002, partially offset by an increase in capital expenditures.

Net cash provided by financing activities was $688$858 thousand for the nine months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, as compared to net cash used in operating activities of $20.8 million for the first quarter of 2003. Although there was an increase in our net income, the variance in cash flows from continuing operating activities of $21.7 million was primarily a result of changes in operating assets and liabilities, in particular, accounts payable increased due to growth in business volume as well as higher fuel costs from December 2003, and this was partially offset by an increase in accounts receivable, prepaid expenses relating to prepaid fuel and receivable from aviation joint venture partner.

During the first quarter of 2004, net cash used in investing activities relating to capital expenditures was $366 thousand, a decrease of $628 thousand as compared to the first quarter of 2003. This decrease was mainly due to higher expenses in 2003 relating to the relocation of our corporate office.

Net cash used in financing activities was $735 thousand for the first quarter of 2004, as compared to net cash provided by financing activities of $2.4$13.8 million for the corresponding nine monthsfirst quarter of 2002.2003. The variance in cash flows from financing activities of $3.1$14.6 million reflectsprimarily results from a reduction of $2.4$16.0 million in repayment of debt, a reduction of $1.3 millionnet borrowings under our revolving credit facility in 2004, partially offset by an increase in the proceeds from the exercise of stock options exercised during the nine months ended September 30, 2003 as well as the repurchase of treasury stock under our treasury stock repurchase programs of $2.0 million during the nine months ended September 30, 2002.$1.5 million.

 

Working capital at September 30, 2003March 31, 2004 was $102.8$115.8 million, representing an increase of $20.6$9.6 million from working capital at December 31, 2002.

2003. Our accounts and notes receivable, at September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, excluding the allowance for bad debts, amounted to $179.3$256.3 million, a decreasean increase of $9.2$53.6 million, as compared to the balance at December 31, 2002.2003. This increase is due to increased business activities and higher fuel prices from December 2003 for both our marine and aviation segments. At September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, the allowance for bad debts of $11.7$10.7 million increased by $598$149 thousand from the balance at December 31, 2002.2003. During the nine months ended September 30, 2003,first quarter of 2004, we charged $5.5 million$885 thousand to the provision for bad debts, as compared to $2.1$2.7 million for the first nine monthsquarter of 2002.2003. We have charge-offs in excess of recoveries of $4.9$736 thousand for the first quarter of 2004, as compared to $2 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2003, as compared to $2.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2002. The increase in the charge-offs in excessfirst quarter of recoveries was primarily related to receivables from two bankrupt international airlines.2003.

 

As of September 30, 2003, inventoriesMarch 31, 2004, prepaid expenses and other current assets of $16.6$33.2 million increased $11.4$13.5 million from December 31, 2002.2003. This increase was primarily due to changes in the fuel supply process and wholesale transactions at September 30, 2003, which were subsequently billed in the following month. Prepaid expenses and other current assets of $27.4 million at September 30, 2003 increased $5.2 million from December 31, 2002. This increase was due to

increases in prepaid fuel and deferred tax assets, partially offset by a lower receivable recorded foran increase in the fair market value of our outstanding derivatives. Net goodwill and identifiable intangible asset and investment goodwill decreased $276$92 thousand, to $38.1$37.9 million, due to the amortization of the identifiable intangible asset.

 

Our other current liabilities, excluding short-term debt, increased $7.5$73.6 million primarily due to increases in both our income taxesaccounts payable, and accruals for performance based incentive compensation payouts.as compared to the balance at December 31, 2003. Long-term debt and short-term debt, in the aggregate, increaseddecreased by $2.6$1.6 million due to borrowings of $5.0 million from our credit facilities, partially offset primarily by repayment of our debt.acquisition debt while other long-term liabilities increased $1.6 million mainly due to increases in deferred compensation.

 

Stockholders’ equity amounted to $143.1$157.4 million at September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, as compared to $127.7$148.4 million at December 31, 2002.2003. The increase in stockholders’ equity was primarily due to $16.2$6.0 million in earnings, and $608 thousand received from the exercise of employee stock options partially offset by the declaration of dividends of $2.4and its related income tax benefits totaling $3.6 million, and the amortization of unearned deferred compensation of $620 thousand.$275 thousand, partially offset by the declaration of dividends of $825 thousand during the first quarter of 2004.

 

We believe that available funds from existing cash and cash equivalents, our credit facility, and cash flows generated by operations will be sufficient to fund our working capital and capital expenditure requirements for the next twelve months. Our opinions concerning liquidity and our ability to obtain financingadvances from our credit facility are based on currently available information. To the extent this information proves to be inaccurate, or if circumstances change, future availability of trade credit or other sources of financing may be reduced and our liquidity would be adversely affected. Factors that may affect the availability of trade credit, or other financing, include our performance (as measured by various factors including cash provided from operating activities), the state of worldwide credit markets, and our levels of outstanding debt. In addition,However, we may decide to raise additional funds to respond to competitive pressures or to acquire complementary businesses. Accordingly, we cannot guarantee that financing will be available when needed or desired on terms favorable to us.

 

Page 16 of 20


Contractual Obligations, Commercial Commitments and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

Except for changes in our letters of credit and purchase and sale commitments and derivatives, as described below, our contractual obligations and commercial commitments did not change materially from December 31, 20022003 to September 30, 2003.March 31, 2004. For a discussion of these matters, refer to “Contractual Obligations, Commercial Commitments and Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements” in Item 7 of our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002.2003.

 

Letters of Credit

 

In the normal course of business, we are required to provide letters of credit to certain suppliers. A majority of these letters of credit expire within one year from their issuance, and expired letters of credit are renewed as needed. As of September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, we had letters of credit outstanding of $16.2$17.2 million, as compared to $14.4$16.1 million in letters of credit outstanding as of December 31, 2002.2003. The letters of credit were issued under our revolving credit facility, and count against the $40.0$100.0 million limit on total borrowings under this facility. For additional information on our revolving credit facility and letters of credit, see the discussion thereof in “Liquidity and Capital Resources,” above.

 

Purchase and Sale Commitments and Derivatives

 

See “Item 3 – Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk,” included in this Form 10-Q, for a discussion of our purchase and sale commitments and derivatives.

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

To take advantage of favorable market conditions or for competitive reasons, we enter into short-term cancelable fuel purchase commitments for the physical delivery of product. We simultaneously may hedge the physical delivery of fuel through a commodity based derivative instrument, to minimize the effects of commodity price fluctuations.

 

As part of our price risk management services, we offer to our marine and aviation customers fixed fuel prices on future sales with, or without, physical delivery of fuel. Typically, we simultaneously enter into a commodity based derivative instrument with a counterparty to hedge our variable fuel price on related future purchases with, or without, physical delivery of fuel. The counterparties are major oil companies and derivative trading firms. Accordingly, we do not anticipate non-performance by such counterparties. Pursuant to these transactions, we are not affected by market price fluctuations since the contracts have the same terms and conditions except for the fee or spread earned by us. Performance risk by the customer under these contracts is considered a credit risk. This risk is minimized by entering into these contracts and transactions only with customers meeting stricter credit criteria.

 

As of September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, we had 94five outstanding swaps contracts totaling 130approximately 56 thousand metric tons of marine fuel, expiring through December 2005, and 48eight outstanding swapswaps contracts totaling 15.015.5 million gallons of aviation fuel, expiring through JulyDecember 2004. As of September 30, 2003,March 31, 2004, we have recorded our derivatives, which consisted of swapswaps contracts to hedge fixed fuel prices on future sales to our customers with, or without, physical delivery of fuel, at their fair market value of $2.1$3.4 million. In the accompanying Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets, such amount was included as Prepaid expenses and other current assets with an offsetting amount in Accrued expenses.

 

We conduct the vast majority of our business transactions in U.S. dollars. However, in certain markets, primarily in Mexico, payments to our aviation fuel supplier are denominated in local currency. In addition, in Mexico, payments from some of our customers are also denominated in local currency. This subjects us to foreign currency exchange risk, which may adversely affect our results of operations and financial condition. We seek to minimize the risks from currency exchange rate fluctuations through our regular operating and financing activities.

 

Our policy is to not use derivative financial instruments for speculative purposes.

Page 17 of 20


Item 4. Controls and Procedures

 

EvaluationAs of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

DisclosureMarch 31, 2004, we have evaluated the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures, are designed to ensureunder the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our CEO, COO and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”). Based upon this evaluation, our CEO, COO and CFO concluded that, as of March 31, 2004, our disclosure controls and procedures were effective so that the information we are required to be disclosed by usdisclose in the reports thatwhich we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (i) is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’sSEC’s rules and forms.

We have evaluatedforms, and (ii) is accumulated and communicated to our disclosure controls and procedures during the last 90 days. Based on such evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) and Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”) believe that such controls and procedures are effective to achieve the above objectives.

Changes in Internal Controls

Our CEO, COO and CFO have determined, based upon our most recent evaluation, that there have been no significant changes in our internal controls that could significantly affect our internal controls and procedures subsequent to that evaluation.

Limitations on the Effectiveness of Controls

Our management, including our CEO, COO and CFO, doesas appropriate to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. Such evaluation did not expect that our disclosure controls oridentify any change in our internal controls will prevent all error and all fraud. A control system, no matter how well conceived and operated, can provide only reasonable, not absolute, assuranceover financial reporting that occurred during the objectives of the control system are met. Further, the design of a control system must reflect the factquarter ended March 31, 2004 that there are resource constraints, and the benefits ofhas materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls must be considered relative to their costs. Because of the inherent limitations in all control systems, no evaluation of controls can provide absolute assurance that all control issues and instances of fraud, if any, within the company have been detected. These inherent limitations include the realities that judgments in decision-making can be faulty, and that breakdowns can occur because of simple error or mistake. Additionally, controls can be circumvented by the individual acts of some persons, by collusion of two or more people, or by management override of the control. The design of any system of controls is based in part upon certain assumptions about the likelihood of future events, and there can be no assurance that any design will succeed in achieving its stated goals under all potential future conditions. Over time, controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. Because of the inherent limitations in a cost-effective control system, misstatements due to error or fraud may occur and not be detected.

over financial reporting.

Part II

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

As described in Item 3 of our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002,2003, we are involved in certain material legal proceedings. There has been no material development in those proceedings since the filing of our 10-K Report.

 

In addition to the matters described in our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002,2003, we are also involved in litigation and administrative proceedings primarily arising in the normal course of our business. In the opinion of management, except as set forth in our 10-K Report for the nine monthsyear ended December 31, 2002,2003, our liability, if any, under any pending litigation or administrative proceedings will not materially affect our financial condition or results of operations.

 

Item 2. Changes in Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

None

 

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

 

None

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

None

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

In October 2003, our Board of Directors approved two amendments to the employment agreements, dated July 26, 2003, of our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Operating Officer. The first amendment deletes Section 2.2(b)(i) of the agreements, which provided that the aggregate of bonuses paid to our five most highly compensated executive officers in any year cannot exceed an amount equal to 50% of any increment in net earnings earned by us in excess of the net earnings required to achieve or exceed a target performance goal of 11.5% growth in earnings per share. The Board concluded that this limitation was no longer appropriate or necessary after the executives’ bonus formulas and performance goals were revised in the first quarter of 2003.None

 

The second amendment provides that, following a ChangePage 18 of Control of World Fuel Services Corporation which is not approved in advance by our Board, the executive will be released from the non-compete covenant in his employment agreement if his employment is terminated by World Fuel Services Corporation without Cause or by the executive for Good Reason (as such terms are defined in the employment agreements), at any time within three years after the Change of Control. The executive would also be released from his non-compete covenant if he resigns, for any reason, within six months after any Change of Control of World Fuel Services Corporation which has not been approved in advance by our Board. The principal purpose of this amendment is to create an incentive for a prospective buyer of World Fuel Services Corporation to negotiate the terms of a Change of Control transaction with our Board, and thereby provide the Board an opportunity to negotiate more favorable price and terms for the transaction. To our knowledge, no Change of Control is currently threatened or contemplated with respect to World Fuel Services Corporation.

A “Change of Control” is generally defined in the employment agreements as: (a) a purchase by a third party or group of 20% or more of our outstanding stock, (b) a merger or similar transaction resulting in a change of ownership of 51% of our stock, (c) the failure of our directors as of March 1, 2003 or their approved nominees to constitute at least 2/3 of our Board, or (d) a sale of all or substantially all of our assets.20

The above amendments were signed on October 29, 2003, and are included as Exhibits 10.1 and 10.2 of this Form 10-Q. The original employment agreements, dated July 26, 2003, were filed as Exhibits to our Form 10-K for the nine months ended December 31, 2002.


Item 6. Exhibits and reports on Form 8-K

 

(a) The exhibits set forth in the following index of exhibits are filed as part of this Form 10-Q:

 

Exhibit No.

  

Description


10.1

  First Amendment to EmploymentCredit Agreement, with Mr. Paul Stebbins, Chairman todated as of March 31, 2004, between World Fuel Services Corporation, the Board of DirectorsLenders (as defined) and Chief Executive Officer, dated October 29, 2003.LaSalle Bank National Association, as a Lender and as the Administrative Agent for Lenders.

10.2

Amendment to Employment Agreement with Mr. Michael Kasbar, President and Chief Operating Officer, dated October 29, 2003.

31.1

  Certification of the Chief Executive Officer pursuant to Rule 12a-14(a) or Rule 15d – 14(a).

31.2

  Certification of the Chief Operating Officer pursuant to Rule 12a-14(a) or Rule 15d – 14(a).

31.3

  Certification of the Chief Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 12a-14(a) or Rule 15d – 14(a).

32.1

  CertificationStatement of the Chief Executive Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.

32.2

Certification of the Chief Operating Officer, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.

32.3

Certification of theand Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 1350.under Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

(b) Reports on Form 8-K.

 

On August 2, 2003, weFebruary 26, 2004.We filed a Current Report on Form 8-K to report the results of operations for the three months and fiscal year ended June 30,December 31, 2003.

Page 19 of 20


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.

 

Date: November 5, 2003May 6, 2004

 

World Fuel Services Corporation

  /s/ Michael J. Kasbar
  

/s/ Francis X. Shea


  

Michael J. Kasbar, President and

Chief Operating Officer

/s/ Francis X. Shea

  

Francis X. Shea, Executive Vice President

and Chief Financial Officer

  

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

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