UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 20-F

 


 

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTIONS 13 OR 15(d)

OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

 

For the fiscal year ended March 31, 20092010

 

Commission file number 1 - 6784

 


 

PANASONIC KABUSHIKI KAISHA

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

(Translation of Registrant’s name into English)

 


 

Japan

(Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)

 

1006, Oaza Kadoma, Kadoma-shi, Osaka 571-8501, Japan

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

Yukitoshi Onda, +81-6-6906-1763, onda.yukitoshi@jp.panasonic.com, address is same as above

Masahito Yamamura, +81-6-6906-1763, yamamura.masahito@jp.panasonic.com, address is same as above

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

 


 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act.

 

Title of each class


 

                    Name  of each exchange on which registered                    


Common Stock* New York Stock Exchange

 

*Not for trading, but only in connection with the registration of the American Depositary Shares evidenced by American Depositary Receipts. Each American Depositary Share represents one share of Common Stock.

 

Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act.

 

None

(Title of Class)

 

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act.

 

None

(Title of Class)

 

 

Indicate the number of outstanding shares (excluding treasury stock) of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

 

   Outstanding as of

Title of Class


  March 31, 20092010
(Japan Time)


  March 31, 20092010
(New York Time)


Common Stock

  2,070,641,6212,070,605,489   

American Depositary Shares, each representing 1 share of Common Stock

     122,815,684103,982,722

 

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

 

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.    Yes  ¨    No  x.

 

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

 

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

 

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

 

Large accelerated filer  x        Accelerated filer  ¨        Non-accelerated filer  ¨.

 

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

 

U.S. GAAP  x        International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board  ¨        Other  ¨

 

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.

 

Item 17  ¨    Item 18  ¨

 

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x.

 

This form contains 147158 pages.

 



CONTENTS

 

      Page

About the Company

  1

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

  1
   PART I  2

Item 1.

  

Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

  2

Item 2.

  

Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

  2

Item 3.

  

Key Information

  2
   

A. Selected Financial Data

  2
   

B. Capitalization and Indebtedness

  3
   

C. Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

  3
   

D. Risk Factors

  3

Item 4.

  

Information on the Company

  89
   

A. History and Development of the Company

  89
   

B. Business Overview

  1112
   

C. Organizational Structure

  2021
   

D. Property, Plants and Equipment

  2324

Item 4A.

  

Unresolved Staff Comments

  2627

Item 5.

  

Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

  2728
   

A. Operating Results

  2728
   

B. Liquidity and Capital Resources

  38
   

C. Research and Development

  4140
   

D. Trend Information

  42
   

E. Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

  4344
   

F. Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

  4445
   

G. Safe Harbor

  4445
   

H. Accounting Principles

  4546

Item 6.

  

Directors, Senior Management and Employees

  4951
   

A. Directors and Senior Management

  4951
   

B. Compensation

  5658
   

C. Board Practices

  5759
   

D. Employees

  5759
   

E. Share Ownership

  5759


      Page

Item 7.

  

Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

  5860
   

A. Major Shareholders

  5860
   

B. Related Party Transactions

  5961
   

C. Interests of Experts and Counsel

  5961

Item 8.

  

Financial Information

  5961
   

A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

  5961
   

B. Significant Changes

  6163

Item 9.

  

The Offer and Listing

  6163
   

A. Offer and Listing Details

  6163
   

B. Plan of Distribution

  6265
   

C. Markets

  6265
   

D. Selling Shareholders

  6265
   

E. Dilution

  6265
   

F. Expenses of the Issue

  6365

Item 10.

  

Additional Information

  6366
   

A. Share Capital

  6366
   

B. Memorandum and Articles of Association

  6366
   

C. Material Contracts

  7476
   

D. Exchange Controls

  7476
   

E. Taxation

  7577
   

F. Dividends and Paying Agents

  7981
   

G. Statement by Experts

  7981
   

H. Documents on Display

  7981
   

I. Subsidiary Information

  7981

Item 11.

  

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

  7982

Item 12.

  

Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

  8285

A. Debt Securities

85

B. Warrants and Rights

85

C. Other Securities

85

D. American Depositary Shares

85
   PART II  83

Item 13.

  

Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

  8386

Item 14.

  

Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

  8386

Item 15.

  

Controls and Procedures

  8386


      Page

Item 16A.

  

Audit Committee Financial Expert

  8487

Item 16B.

  

Code of Ethics

  8487

Item 16C.

  

Principal Accountant Fees and Services

  8488

Item 16D.

  

Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

  8589

Item 16E.

  

Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

  8690

Item 16F.

  

Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

  8790

Item 16G.

  

Corporate Governance

  8790
   PART III  90

Item 17.

  

Financial Statements

  9093

Item 18.

  

Financial Statements

  9093

Item 19.

  

Exhibits

  146157


- 1 -

 

All information contained in this annual report is as of March 31, 20092010 or for the year ended March 31, 20092010 (fiscal 2009)2010) unless the context otherwise indicates.

 

The noon buying rate for yen in New York City as certified for customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on June 19, 200921, 2010 was 96.1591.18 yen = U.S.$1.

 

About the Company

 

Panasonic Corporation (hereinafter, unless the context otherwise requires, “Panasonic,” the “Panasonic Group” or the “Company” refers to Panasonic Corporation and its consolidated subsidiaries as a group) is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of electronic and electric products for a wide range of consumer, business and industrial uses, as well as a wide variety of components. As from October 1, 2008, the Company changed its company name from “Matsushita Electric Co., Ltd.” to “Panasonic Corporation.” Based in Osaka, Japan, the Company recorded consolidated net sales of approximately 7,7667,418 billion yen for fiscal 2009.2010. Over the past nine decades, the Company has grown from a small domestic household electrical equipment manufacturer into a comprehensive electronic and electric equipment, systems and components manufacturer operating internationally. Of the fiscal 20092010 net sales, nearly one-half was represented by sales in Japan, with the rest by overseas sales.

 

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

 

This annual report includes forward-looking statements (within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934) about Panasonic.Panasonic and its Group companies (the Panasonic Group). To the extent that statements in this annual report do not relate to historical or current facts, they constitute forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on the current assumptions and beliefs of the Panasonic Group in light of the information currently available to it, and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Such risks, uncertainties and other factors may cause the Panasonic Group’s actual results, performance, achievements or financial position to be materially different from any future results, performance, achievements or financial position expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. Panasonic undertakes no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements after the date of this annual report (June 2009)2010). Investors are advised to consult any further disclosures by Panasonic in its subsequent filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and its other filings.

 

The risks, uncertainties and other factors referred to above include, but are not limited to, economic conditions, particularly consumer spending and corporate capital expenditures in the United States, Europe, Japan, China, Asia and other Asian countries; volatility in demand for electronic equipment and components from business and industrial customers, as well as consumers in many product and geographical markets; currency rate fluctuations, notably between the yen, the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Chinese yuan, Asian currencies and other currencies in which the Panasonic Group operates businesses, or in which assets and liabilities of the Panasonic Group are denominated; the possibility of the Panasonic Group incurring additional costs of raising funds, because of changes in the fund raising environment; the ability of the Panasonic Group to respond to rapid technological changes and changing consumer preferences with timely and cost-effective introductions of new products in markets that are highly competitive in terms of both price and technology; the possibility of not achieving expected results on the alliances or mergers and acquisitions;acquisitions including the acquisition of SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. “SANYO”; the ability of the Panasonic Group to achieve its business objectives through joint ventures and other collaborative agreements with other companies; the ability of the Panasonic Group to maintain competitive strength in many product and geographical areas; the possibility of incurring expenses resulting from any defects in products or services of the Panasonic Group; the possibility that the Panasonic Group may face intellectual property infringement claims by third parties; current and potential, direct and indirect restrictions imposed by other countries over trade, manufacturing, labor and operations; fluctuations in market prices of securities and other assets in which the Panasonic Group has holdings or changes in valuation of long-lived assets, including property, plant and equipment and goodwill, and deferred tax assets and uncertain tax positions; future changes or revisions to accounting policies or accounting rules; as well as natural disasters including earthquakes, prevalence of infectious diseases throughout the world and other events that may negatively impact business activities of the Panasonic Group. The factors listed above are not all-inclusive.


- 2 -

 

PART I

 

 

Item 1.Identity of Directors, Senior Management and Advisers

 

Not applicable

 

Item 2.Offer Statistics and Expected Timetable

 

Not applicable

 

Item 3.Key Information

 

A.Selected Financial Data

 

  Yen (billions), except per share amounts and yen exchange rates

 Yen (billions), except per share amounts and yen exchange  rates

 
  Fiscal year ended March 31,

 Fiscal year ended March 31,

 
  2009

 2008

  2007

  2006

  2005

 2010

 2009

 2008

 2007

 2006

 

Statements of Operations Data:

             

Net sales

  7,766   9,069  9,108  8,894  8,714 7,418   7,766   9,069   9,108   8,894  

Income (loss) before income taxes

  (383 435  439  371  247 (29 (383 435   439   371  

Net income (loss)

  (379 282  217  154  58 (171 (404 311   248   153  

Net income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation

 (103 (379 282   217   154  

Per common share:

             

Net income (loss):

            

Net income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation:

 

Basic

  (182.25 132.90  99.50  69.48  25.49 (49.97 (182.25 132.90   99.50   69.48  

Diluted

  (182.25 132.90  99.50  69.48  25.49 —     (182.25 132.90   99.50   69.48  

Dividends

  40.00   32.50  25.00  17.50  15.25 12.50   40.00   32.50   25.00   17.50  
 (U.S.$0.13 (U.S.$0.40 (U.S.$0.33 (U.S.$0.21 (U.S.$0.15

Balance Sheet Data:

             

Total assets

  6,403   7,444  7,897  7,965  8,057 8,358   6,403   7,444   7,897   7,965  

Long-term debt

  651   232  227  264  477 1,029   651   232   227   264  

Stockholders’ equity

  2,784   3,742  3,917  3,788  3,544

Total Panasonic Corporation shareholders’ equity

 2,792   2,784   3,742   3,917   3,788  

Common stock

  259   259  259  259  259 259   259   259   259   259  

Number of shares issued at year-end (thousands)

  2,453,053   2,453,053  2,453,053  2,453,053  2,453,053 2,453,053   2,453,053   2,453,053   2,453,053   2,453,053  

Number of shares issued and outstanding at year-end (thousands)

  2,070,642   2,101,117  2,146,284  2,209,532  2,258,358 2,070,605   2,070,642   2,101,117   2,146,284   2,209,532  

Yen exchange rates per U.S. dollar:

             

Year-end

  99.15   99.85  117.56  117.48  107.22 93.40   99.15   99.85   117.56   117.48  

Average

  100.62   114.31  116.92  113.15  107.49 92.93   100.62   114.31   116.92   113.15  

High

  87.80   96.88  110.07  104.41  102.26 86.12   87.80   96.88   110.07   104.41  

Low

  110.48   124.09  121.81  120.93  114.30 100.71   110.48   124.09   121.81   120.93  

 

  Dec.
2008


   Jan.
2009


   Feb.
2009


   Mar.
2009


   Apr.
2009


   May
2009


  Dec.
2009


   Jan.
2010


   Feb.
2010


   Mar.
2010


   Apr.
2010


   May
2010


Yen exchange rates for each month during the previous six months:

                                    

High

  87.84   87.80   89.09   93.85   96.49   94.45  86.62   89.41   88.84   88.43   92.03   89.89

Low

  93.71   94.20   98.55   99.34   100.71   99.24  93.08   93.31   91.94   93.40   94.51   94.68
Note: Dividends per share reflect those paid during each fiscal year.

Notes:

1.Dividends per share reflect those paid during each fiscal year.
2.United States dollar amounts for dividends per share are translated from yen for convenience at the year-end exchange rate of each period.
3.The company adopted the provisions of ASC 810, “Consolidation” and the presentations requirements for the financial statements have been adopted retrospectively and prior year amounts of net income (loss) have been reclassified to conform to the presentation used for fiscal 2010.
4.Diluted net income (loss), attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders per share, for fiscal 2010, has been omitted because the company did not have potential common shares that were outstanding for the period.


- 3 -

 

B.Capitalization and Indebtedness

 

Not applicable

 

 

C.Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

 

Not applicable

 

 

D.Risk Factors

 

Once a year, Panasonic implements a Groupwide risk assessment survey to identify potential risks in an integrated and comprehensive manner. By identifying, assessing, evaluating and prioritizing these risks, Panasonic specifies risks at the Corporate Headquarters, business domain companies and Group affiliates, takes countermeasures that correspond to the materiality of each risk, and seeks continuous improvements through the monitoring of the progress of such countermeasures. Primarily because of the business areas and geographical areas where it operates, and the highly competitive nature of the industry to which it belongs, Panasonic is exposed to a variety of risks and uncertainties in conducting its businesses, including, but not limited to, the following. These risks may adversely affect Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition. This section includes forward-looking statements and future expectations as of the date of this annual report.

 

Risks Related to Economic Conditions

 

Continued or further weakness in Japanese and global economies may cause reduced demand for Panasonic’s products

 

Weakness in Japanese and global economies may cause reduced demand for Panasonic’s products

Demand for Panasonic’s products and services may be affected by general economic trends in the countries or regions in which Panasonic’s products and services are sold. Economic downturns and resulting declines in demand in Panasonic’s major markets worldwide may thus adversely affect the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition. SinceTriggered by the financial crisis occurred in 2008,fiscal 2009, Panasonic’s business environment has been rapidly deterioratingdeteriorated due to declines in global consumption and business activities and due to intensified price competition. Panasonic expects a decrease in profitability inRegarding the business environment for fiscal 2010 because further deterioration of domestic and overseas2011, ending March 31, 2011, the Company currently anticipates market conditions will likely cause sales of Panasonic’s products to declineremain unpredictable due to various factors including the yen’s appreciation and ever-intensified global competition, despite a gradually recovering global economy. Panasonic willmay incur increased costs for additional business restructuring in order to cope with the business environment. If global market conditions worsen beyond expectations, the business environment of Panasonic may deteriorate more than currently anticipated, which may adversely affect the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

 

Currency exchange rate fluctuations may adversely affect Panasonic’s operating results

 

Foreign exchange rate fluctuations may adversely affect Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition, because its international business transactions and costs and prices of its products and services in overseas countries are affected by foreign exchange rate changes. In addition, foreign exchange rate changes can also affect the yen value of Panasonic’s investments in overseas assets and liabilities because Panasonic’s consolidated financial statements are presented in Japanese yen. Generally, an appreciation of the yen against other major currencies such as the U.S. dollar and the euro may adversely affect Panasonic’s operating results. Meanwhile, a depreciation of the yen against the aforementioned major currencies may have a favorable impact on Panasonic’s operating results. The global financial crisis, which occurred in 2008, caused the rapid appreciation of the yen against other major currencies, which adversely and significantly affected Panasonic’s operating results in fiscal 2009.2009 and fiscal 2010. Any further or continued appreciation of the yen may adversely affect the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

 

Interest rate fluctuations may adversely affect Panasonic’s financial condition, etc.

 

Panasonic is exposed to interest rate fluctuation risks which may affect the Company’s operational costs, interest expenses, interest income and the value of financial assets and liabilities. Accordingly, interest rate fluctuations may adversely affect the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.


- 4 -

 

Continuation or deterioration of financial market turmoil may adversely affect Panasonic’s ability to raise funds or may increase the cost of fund raising

 

Panasonic raises funds for its business through methods such as borrowing from financial institutions and issuance of bonds and commercial papers. Where, among other events, financial market turmoil continues or deteriorates, financial institutions reduce lending to Panasonic, or rating agencies downgrade Panasonic’s credit ratings, Panasonic may not be able to raise funds in the time and amount necessary for Panasonic, or under conditions which Panasonic deems appropriate, and Panasonic may incur additional costs of raising funds, which may adversely affect the Company’s business, operating results and financial condition.

 

Decreases in the value of Japanese stocks may adversely affect Panasonic’s financial results

 

Panasonic holds mostly Japanese stocks as part of its investment securities. The value of such stocks has dropped significantly due to the globalworld financial crisis and economic downturnthe recession of Japanese economy in Japan,fiscal 2009, causing Panasonic to record losses on the valuation of its investment securities in fiscal 2009.2009 and fiscal 2010. Further decreases in the value of stocks may cause additional losses due to decreases in the valuation of investment securities, thereby adversely affecting Panasonic’s operating results and financial condition. The decrease in the value of Japanese stocks may also reduce stockholders’ equity on the balance sheet, as unrealized holding gains (losses) of available-for-sale securities are included as part of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss).

 

Risks Related to Panasonic’s Business

 

Competition in the industry may adversely affect Panasonic’s ability to maintain profitability

 

Panasonic develops, produces and sells a broad range of products and therefore faces many different types of competitors, from large international companies to relatively small, rapidly growing, and highly specialized organizations. Panasonic may choose not to fund or invest in one or more of its businesses to the same degree as its competitors in those businesses do, or it may not be able to do so in a timely manner or even at all. These competitors may have greater financial, technological, and marketing resources than Panasonic in the respective businesses in which they compete.

 

Rapid declines in product prices may adversely affect Panasonic’s financial condition

 

Panasonic’s business is subject to intense price competition worldwide, which makes it difficult for the Company to determine product prices and maintain adequate profits. Such intensified price competition may adversely affect Panasonic’s profits, especially in terms of possible decreases in demand. As global consumption has declinedAmid accelerating changes in the structure of markets, such as a demand shift to emerging markets and demand has shifted to low-pricedlower-priced products, and market expansion of environmental and energy-related businesses, Panasonic’s product prices in digital electronics and many other business areas may continue to decline significantly.

 

Panasonic’s business is, and will continue to be, subject to risks generally associated with international business operations

 

One of Panasonic’s business strategies is business expansion in overseas markets. In many of these markets, Panasonic may face risks generally associated with international manufacturing and other business operations, such as political instability, including terrorist attacks and abduction, cultural and religious differences and labor relations, as well as economic uncertainty and foreign currency exchange risks. Panasonic may also face barriers in commercial and business customs in foreign countries, including difficulties in timely collection of accounts receivable or in building and expanding relationships with customers, subcontractors or parts suppliers. Panasonic may also experience various political, legal or other restrictions in investment, trade, manufacturing, labor or other aspects of operations, including restrictions on foreign investment or the repatriation of profits on invested capital, nationalization of local industry, changes in export or import restrictions or foreign exchange controls, and changes in the tax system or the rate of taxation in countries where Panasonic operates businesses. With respect to products exported overseas, tariffs, other barriers or shipping costs may make Panasonic’s products less competitive in terms of price. Expanding its overseas business may require significant investments long before Panasonic realizes returns on such investments, and increased investments may result in expenses growing at a faster rate than revenues.


- 5 -

 

Panasonic may not be able to keep pace with technological changes and develop new products or services in a timely manner to remain competitive

 

Panasonic may fail to introduce new products or services in response to technological changes in a timely manner. Some of Panasonic’s core businesses, such as consumer digital electronics and key components and devices, are concentrated in industries where technological innovation is the central competitive factor. Panasonic continuously faces the challenge of developing and introducing viable and innovative new products. Panasonic must predict with reasonable accuracy both future demand and new technologies that will be available to meet such demand. If Panasonic fails to do so, it will not be able to compete effectively in new markets.

 

Panasonic may not be able to develop product formats that can prevail as de facto standards

 

Panasonic has been forming alliances and partnerships with other major manufacturers to strengthen technologies and the development of product formats, such as next-generation home and mobile networking products, data storage devices, and software systems. Despite these efforts, Panasonic’s competitors may succeed in developing de facto standards for future products before Panasonic can. In such cases, the Company’s competitive position, business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.

 

Panasonic may not be able to successfully recruit and retain skilled employees, particularly scientific, technical and management professionals

 

Panasonic’s future success depends largely on its ability to attract and retain certain key personnel, including scientific, technical and management professionals. Industry demand for skilled employees, however, exceeds the number of personnel available, and the competition for attracting and retaining these employees is intense. Because of this intense competition for skilled employees, Panasonic may be unable to retain its existing personnel or attract additional qualified employees to keep up with future business needs. If this should happen, Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.

 

Alliances with, and strategic investments in, third parties, and mergers and acquisitions undertaken by Panasonic, may not produce positive or expected results

 

Panasonic develops its businessbusinesses by forming alliances or joint ventures with, and making strategic investments in, other companies, including investments in start-up companies. Furthermore, the strategic importance of partnering with third parties is increasing. In some cases, such partnerships are crucial to Panasonic’s goal of introducing new products and services, but Panasonic may not be able to successfully collaborate or achieve expected synergies with its partners. Furthermore, Panasonic does not however, control these partners, who may make decisions regarding their business undertakings with Panasonic that may be contrary to Panasonic’s interests. In addition, if these partners change their business strategies, Panasonic may fail to maintain these partnerships. Panasonic and SANYO, Electric Co., Ltd. (“SANYO”), upon resolutions of meetings of their respective Boards of Directors held on December 19, 2008, entered into a Capital and Business Alliance Agreement.Agreement to widely pursue synergies in all business aspects of both companies. Panasonic aims to make SANYO its subsidiary throughsubsequently conducted a tender offer for SANYO shares (at a purchase price of 131 yen per share of common stock, 1,310 yen per share of Class A preferred stock and 1,310 yen per share of Class B preferred stock), which will be launched subject from November 5 through December 9, 2009, pursuant to among other conditions, the completiona resolution of its Board of Directors held on November 4, 2009. As a result of Panasonic’s conversion of the proceduresClass B preferred stock of SANYO that it acquired through the tender offer into common stock, SANYO and measures that are required under domestic and overseas competition laws and regulations.its subsidiaries became Panasonic consolidated subsidiaries in December 2009. However, Panasonic may not be able to promptly make SANYO its subsidiary and may fail to achieve the expected results, despite the Company’s efforts to maximize synergies withfrom the addition of SANYO throughto the capital and business alliance.Panasonic Group. Furthermore, as a result of makingconsolidation of SANYO, its consolidated subsidiary, deterioration of SANYO’s operating results and financial condition may adversely affect Panasonic’s operating results and financial condition.

 

Panasonic is dependent on the ability of third parties to deliver parts, components and services in adequate quality and quantity in a timely manner, and at a reasonable price

 

Panasonic’s manufacturing operations depend on obtaining raw materials, parts and components, equipment and other supplies including services from reliable suppliers inat adequate quality and quantity in a timely manner. It may be difficult for Panasonic to substitute one supplier for another, increase the number of suppliers or change one component for another in a timely manner or at all due to the interruption of supply caused by, among other conditions, the bankruptcy of suppliers or increased industry demand. This may adversely affect the Panasonic Group’s operations. Although Panasonic decides purchase prices by contract, the prices of raw materials, including oil,iron and steel, resin, and non-ferrous metals, and parts and components, may increase due to changes in supply and demand.demand and the inflow of investment funds. Some components are only available from a limited number of suppliers, which also may adversely affect Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition.


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Panasonic is exposed to the risk that its customers may encounter financial difficulties

 

Many of Panasonic’s customers purchase products and services from Panasonic on payment terms that do not provide for immediate payment. If customers from whom Panasonic has substantial accounts receivable encounter financial difficulties and are unable to make payments on time, Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected.

 

Risks Related to Panasonic’s Management Plans

 

Panasonic is implementing its mid-terma midterm management plan called GP3 (announced“Green Transformation 2012” (GT12), announced on January 10, 2007),May 7, 2010, which runs from fiscal 20082011 to fiscal 2010.2013. Under this plan, Panasonic aims to achieve an operating profit* to sales ratio of 5% or more, sales of ¥1010 trillion andyen, ROE of 10% in fiscal 2010 by achieving steady growth with profitability. Panasonic, in an effort to coexist with the global environment, also aims to achieve a target of reducing total globaland CO2 emissions by 300,000emission reductions of 50 million tons (compared to the estimated amount of emission in fiscal 2010 compared with2013 assuming that no remedial measures were taken since fiscal 2007 at Panasonic’s manufacturing operations worldwide. Due to various factors including, in particular, the global recession resulting from the global financial crisis, it will be very difficult for Panasonic to achieve all the goals set out in its mid-term management plan. Also, Panasonic announced on May 15, 2009, its annual forecast and major initiatives for the year ending March 31, 2010.2006.) However, Panasonic may not be successful in achieving all the targets or in realizing the expected benefits because of various external and internal factors including among other conditions, further deterioration of the business environment and increased costs of business restructuring such as additional business reorganization, the impairment of fixed assets and employment adjustment in order to cope with the business environment.

* In order to be consistent with generally accepted financial reporting practices in Japan, operating profit, a non-GAAP measure, is presented as net sales less cost of sales and selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company believes that this is useful to investors in comparing the company’s financial results with those of other Japanese companies.

 

Risks Related to Legal Restrictions and Litigations

 

Panasonic may be subject to product liability or warranty claims that could result in significant direct or indirect costs

 

The occurrence of quality problems due to product defects, including safety incidents, in Panasonic products could make Panasonic liable for damages not covered by product and completed operation liability insurance, whereby the Company could incur significant expenses. Due to negative publicity concerning these problems, Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition may be adversely affected.

 

Panasonic may fail to protect its proprietary intellectual properties, or face claims of intellectual property infringement by a third party, and may lose its intellectual property rights on key technologies or be liable for significant damages

 

Panasonic’s success depends on its ability to obtain intellectual property rights covering its products and product design. Patents may not be granted or may not be of sufficient scope or force to provide Panasonic with adequate protection or commercial advantage. In addition, effective copyright and trade secret protections may be unavailable or limited in some countries in which Panasonic operates. Competitors or other third parties may also develop technologies that are protected by patents and other intellectual property rights, which make such technologies unavailable or available only on terms unfavorable to Panasonic. The Company obtains licenses for intellectual property rights from other parties; however, such licenses may not be available at all or on acceptable terms in the future. Litigation may also be necessary to enforce Panasonic’s intellectual property rights or to defend against intellectual property infringement claims brought against Panasonic by third parties. In such cases, Panasonic may incur significant expenses for such lawsuits. Furthermore, Panasonic may be prohibited from using certain important technologies or liable for damages in cases of admitted violations of intellectual property rights of others.


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Changes in accounting standards and tax systems may adversely affect Panasonic’s financial results and condition

 

Introduction of new accounting standards or tax systems, or changes thereof, which Panasonic cannot predict, may have a material adverse effect on the Company’s operating results and financial condition. In addition, if tax authorities have different opinions from Panasonic on the Company’s tax declarations, Panasonic may need to make larger tax payments than estimated.


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Payments or compensation related to environmental regulations or issues may adversely affect Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition

 

Panasonic is subject to environmental regulations such as those relating to climate change, air pollution, water pollution, elimination of hazardous substances, waste management, product recycling, and soil and groundwater contamination, and may be held responsible for certain related payments or compensation. Furthermore, if these regulations become stricter and an additional duty of eliminating the use of environmentally hazardous materials is imposed, or if the Company determines that it is necessary and appropriate, from the viewpoint of corporate social responsibility, to respond to environmental issues, the payment of penalties for the violation of these regulations or voluntary payment of compensation for consolation to parties affected by such issues may adversely affect Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition.

 

Leaks of confidential information or trade secrets may adversely affect Panasonic’s business

 

In the normal course of business, Panasonic holds confidential information mainly about customers regarding credit worthiness and other information, as well as confidential information about companies and other third parties. Such information may be leaked due to an accident or other inevitable cause, and any material leakage of confidential information may result in significant expense for related lawsuits and adversely affect Panasonic’s business and image. Moreover, besides customer information, there is a risk that Panasonic’s trade secrets, such as technology information, may be leaked by illegal conduct or by mere negligence of external parties, etc. If such is the case, Panasonic’s business, operating results and financial condition may be adversely affected.

 

Governmental laws and regulations may limit Panasonic’s activities or, increase its operating costs or subject it to sanctions and lawsuits

 

Panasonic is subject to governmental regulations in Japan and other countries in which it conducts its business, including governmental approvals required for conducting business and investments, laws and regulations governing the telecommunications businesses and electric product safety, national security-related laws and regulations and export/import laws and regulations, as well as commercial, antitrust, patent, product liability, environmental laws and regulations, consumer protection, financial and business taxation laws and regulations, and internal control regulations due to the implementation of stricter laws and regulations and stricter interpretations. However, to the extent that Panasonic cannot comply with these laws and regulations from technical and economic perspectives, or if they become stricter and Panasonic determines that it would not be economical to continue to comply with them, Panasonic would need to limit its activities in the affected business areas. In addition, theseThese laws and regulations could increase Panasonic’s operating costs. In addition, in the event that governmental authorities find or determine that Panasonic has violated these laws and regulations, Panasonic could become subject to regulatory sanctions, including money penalties, or criminal sanctions or civil lawsuits for damages, and could also suffer reputational harm.

 

Risks Related to Disasters or Unpredictable Events

 

Panasonic’s facilities and information systems could be damaged as a result of disasters or unpredictable events, which could have an adverse effect on its business operations

 

Panasonic’s headquarters and major facilities including manufacturing plants, sales offices and research and development centers are located in Japan. Panasonic also operates procurement, manufacturing, logistics, sales and research and development facilities all over the world. If major disasters, such as earthquakes, fires, floods, including those caused by climate change, wars, terrorist attacks, computer viruses or other events occur, or Panasonic’s information system or communications network breaks down or operates improperly as a result of such events, Panasonic’s facilities may be seriously damaged, or the Company may have to stop or delay production and shipment. Panasonic may incur expenses relating to such damages. In addition, if an infectious disease, such as a new highly-pathogenic flu strain, becomes prevalent throughout the world, Panasonic’s manufacturing and sales may be materially disrupted.


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Other Risks

 

External economic conditions may adversely affect Panasonic’s pension plans

 

Panasonic has contributory, funded benefit pension plans covering substantially all employees in Japan who meet eligibility requirements. A decline in interest rates may cause a decrease in the discount rate on benefit obligations. A decrease in the value of stocks may also affect the return on plan assets. As a result, the actuarial loss may increase, leading to an increase in future net periodic benefit costs of these pension plans.


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Some long-lived assets may not produce adequate returns

 

Panasonic has many long-lived assets, such as plant, property and equipment, and goodwill, that generate returns. The Company periodically reviews the recorded value of its long-lived assets to determine if the fair value will be sufficient to support the remaining recorded asset values. If these long-lived assets do not generate sufficient cash flows, impairment losses will have to be recognized, adversely affecting Panasonic’s results of operations and financial condition.

 

Realizability of deferred tax assets and uncertain tax positions may increase Panasonic’s provision for income tax

 

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets and uncertain tax positions based on the expected future generation of taxable income or assessed sustainability of uncertain tax positions, Panasonic considers whether it is more likely than not that any portion or all of the deferred tax assets or recognized tax position benefit will not be realized. If Panasonic determines that temporary differences and loss carryforwards or recognized tax benefits cannot be realized upon the generation of future taxable income during the deductible periods due to deteriorating business conditions or tax position benefits may not be realized upon settlement, valuation allowance against deferred tax assets or unrecognized tax benefit reserves could be recognized and Panasonic’s provision for income tax may increase.

 

Financial results and condition of associated companies may adversely affect Panasonic’s operating results and financial condition

 

Panasonic holds equities of several associated companies. Panasonic can exercise influence over operating and financing policies of these companies. However, Panasonic does not have the right to make decisions for them since the companies operate independently. Some companies may record losses. If these associated companies do not generate profits, Panasonic’s business results and financial condition may be adversely affected.

 

American Depositary Share (ADS) holders have fewer rights than shareholders and may not be able to enforce judgments based on U.S. securities laws

 

The rights of shareholders under Japanese law to take actions, including exercising their voting rights, receiving dividends and distributions, bringing derivative actions, examining Panasonic’s accounting books and records, and exercising appraisal rights are available only to shareholders of record. Because the depositary, through its nominee, is the record holder of the shares underlying the ADSs, only the depositary can exercise those rights in connection with the deposited shares. The depositary will make efforts to exercise their voting rights underlying ADSs in accordance with the instructions of ADS holders and will pay the dividends and distributions collected from Panasonic. However, ADS holders will not be able to bring a derivative action, examine Panasonic’s accounting books and records, or exercise appraisal rights through the depositary.

 

Panasonic’s shareholders of record on a record date may not receive the dividend they anticipate

The customary dividend payout practice and relevant regulatory regime of publicly listed companies in Japan may differ from that followed in foreign markets. Panasonic’s dividend payout practice is no exception. While the Company regularly announces forecasts of annual and interim dividends in April or May of each year, these forecasts are not legally binding. The actual payment of annual dividends requires a resolution of its shareholders. If the shareholders adopt such a resolution, the annual dividend payment is made to shareholders as of the applicable record date, which is currently specified as March 31 by its Articles of Incorporation. However, such a resolution of the Company’s shareholders is usually made at an ordinary general meeting of shareholders held in June. The payment of interim dividends requires only a resolution of its board of directors. If the board adopts such a resolution, the dividend payment is made to shareholders as of the applicable record date, which is currently specified as September 30 by its Articles of Incorporation. However, the board usually does not adopt a resolution with respect to an interim dividend until after September 30. Shareholders of record as of an applicable record date may sell shares in the market after the record date in anticipation of receiving a certain dividend payment based on the previously announced forecasts. However, since these forecasts are not legally binding and resolutions to pay dividends are usually not adopted until after the record date, Panasonic’s shareholders of record on record dates for annual or interim dividends may not receive the dividend they anticipate.


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Item 4.Information on the Company

 

A.History and Development of the Company

 

GENERAL

 

The Company was incorporated in Japan on December 15, 1935 under the laws of Japan as Matsushita Denki Sangyo Kabushiki Kaisha (Address: 1006, Oaza Kadoma, Kadoma-shi, Osaka 571-8501, Japan. Phone: +81-6-6908-1121 / Agent: Mr. Yoichi Nagata, Director of Overseas Investor RelationsKo Kaneko, President of Panasonic Corporation)Finance (America), Inc.) as the successor to an unincorporated enterprise founded in 1918 by the late Konosuke Matsushita. Mr. Matsushita led the Company with his corporate philosophy of contributing to the peace, happiness and prosperity of humankind through the supply of quality consumer electric and electronic goods. The Company’s business expanded rapidly with the recovery and growth of the Japanese economy after World War II, as it met rising demand for consumer electric and electronic products, starting with washing machines, black-and-white TVs and refrigerators. During the 1950s, the Company expanded its operations by establishing mass production and mass sales structures to meet increasing domestic demand, while also creating subsidiaries, making acquisitions and forming alliances. During the 1960s, the Company expanded its overseas businesses, and its products started obtaining worldwide recognition.


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During the global recession caused by the first oil crisis in 1973, the Company strengthened its structure and overseas business relations. The advent and popularity of the video cassette recorder (VCR) from the late 1970s enabled the Company to receive worldwide recognition as a global consumer electronics manufacturer. In the 1980s, the Company further worked to evolve from a consumer products manufacturer to a comprehensive electronics products manufacturer, expanding its business in the areas of information and communications technology, industrial equipment and components and devices. Since the 1990s, the Company has been emphasizing technological development and the use of advanced technology in every phase of life. In particular, the Company has been expanding its development activities in such areas as next-generation audiovisual (AV) equipment, multimedia products, and advanced electronic components and devices, many of which incorporate digital technology.

 

In June 1995, the Company sold 80% equity interest in MCA (subsequently renamed Universal Studios, Inc.) which the Company purchased in December 1990, to The Seagram Company Ltd. (currently Vivendi Universal S.A.) for approximately U.S. $5.7 billion, leaving the Company with a minority interest. In February 2006, the Company sold the remaining shares to Vivendi Universal S.A.

 

In April 2000, the Company made two of its majority-owned subsidiaries, Matsushita Refrigeration Company and Wakayama Precision Company, into wholly-owned subsidiaries by means of share exchanges. As a result of the share exchanges, the Company issued 16,321,187 shares of its common stock to shareholders of the respective companies.

 

In June 2000, Kunio Nakamura became President of the Company and, under his leadership, the Company implemented structural reforms and growth strategies with an emphasis on enhancing growth potential, profitability and capital efficiency, thereby ensuring the Company’s continued contribution to society.

 

In April 2001, the Company absorbed Matsushita Electronics Corporation, its wholly-owned subsidiary, by merger to implement unified operational management in such key device areas as semiconductors and display devices.


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In April 2002, the Company and Toshiba Corporation (Toshiba) separated their respective liquid crystal display (LCD) panel operations and established a joint venture company, Toshiba Matsushita Display Technology Co., Ltd. (TMD), for the development, manufacture and sale of LCD panels and next-generation display devices. Of the new company’s initial stated capital of 10 billion yen, 60% was invested by Toshiba and 40% by the Company.

 

As a drastic structural reform aimed at achieving new growth, the Company implemented share exchanges on October 1, 2002 with five of its majority-owned subsidiaries (Matsushita Communication Industrial Co., Ltd., Kyushu Matsushita Electric Co., Ltd., Matsushita Seiko Co., Ltd., Matsushita Kotobuki Electronics Industries, Ltd. and Matsushita Graphic Communication Systems, Inc.) and transformed them into wholly-owned subsidiaries of the Company.

 

As an extension of this Groupwide reorganization, the Company transformed two of its majority-owned subsidiaries, Matsushita Electronic Components Co., Ltd. and Matsushita Battery Industrial Co., Ltd., into wholly-owned subsidiaries via share exchanges, effective April 1, 2003.

 

Upon the aforementioned Groupwide restructurings, in April 2003, to prepare a framework that enables each business domain company to implement autonomously responsible management, the Company established a new global consolidated management system that focuses on capital efficiency and cash flows.

 

Also on April 1, 2003, the Company launched another joint venture company with Toshiba, upon separating their respective cathode ray tube (CRT) businesses with the exception of domestic CRT manufacturing operations. The Company formerly accounted for the investment in the new company, Matsushita Toshiba Picture Display Co., Ltd. (MTPD) and its subsidiaries under the equity method, and began to consolidate MTPD on March 1, 2006 in accordance with Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. 46No.46 (revised December 2003), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (FIN 46R), as a result of certain restructuring activities of MTPD. At March 31, 2006, the Company had a 64.5% equity interest in MTPD. At March 30, 2007, the Company acquired the remaining 35.5% equity interest in MTPD from Toshiba and MTPD was renamed MT Picture Display Co., Ltd.


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Since fiscal 2003, the Company has been gradually shifting its focus from restructuring to growth. The Company made concerted efforts to enhance product competitiveness. V-products, which aim to capture leading shares in high-volume markets, made a significant contribution to overall business results.

 

In April 2003, the Company announced that it would position the Panasonic brand as a globally unified brand for overseas markets under the global brand slogan of “Panasonic ideas for life.” This new brand strategy conveys to customers all over the world a new image for the Company and its products, while further enhancing brand value.

 

In December 2003, the Company reached a basic agreement regarding a comprehensive business collaboration with its affiliate, Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. (PEW), after which the Company initiated a tender offer for additional shares of PEW. As a result of the tender offer in which the Company purchased an additional 140,550 thousand shares of common stock of PEW at the total cost of 147 billion yen, PEW, PanaHome Corporation and their respective subsidiaries became consolidated subsidiaries of the Company in April 2004. For fiscal 2005, Panasonic and PEW integrated overlapping businesses in the area of electrical supplies, building materials and equipment, home appliances and industrial equipment, and reformed distribution channels to establish an optimized, customer-oriented operational structure. In fiscal 2006, the Company leveraged the strengths of both companies to achieve sales increases in Collaboration V-products including bathroom systems, modular kitchens and air purifiers.

 

In fiscal 2005, as part of business restructuring of its Group companies, power distribution equipment and monitoring and control system operations of Matsushita Industrial Information Equipment Co., Ltd. (MIIE) were transferred to PEW, while MIIE’s information machine business was shifted to Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd. Subsequently, MIIE was absorbed by the Company in April 2005, and no longer operates as a separate entity.

 

In June 2006, Fumio Ohtsubo became President of the Company. Under its new management, it has been making efforts to achieve global excellence, or in other words, to aim to earn the support of all its stakeholders worldwide by sustaining growth through continued innovation and ensuring sound business activities on a global basis.


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In July 2007, each of Victor Company of Japan, Limited (“JVC”), a consolidated subsidiary of the Company, KENWOOD and SPARX International (Hong Kong) Limited, an investment management company which belongs to a group of companies headed by SPARX Group Co., Ltd. adopted resolutions for, or affirmed, JVC’s issuance of 107,693,000 new shares of its common stock through third party allotments, and the new shares were subscribed by KENWOOD and the several investment funds managed by SPARX International (Hong Kong) Limited. JVC issued and allocated the new shares to KENWOOD and the SPARX funds on August 10, 2007. As a result, the Company’s shareholding in JVC decreased from 52.4% to 36.8%, and JVC became an associated company under the equity method from a consolidated subsidiary in the fiscal 2008 second quarter.

 

In February 2008, the Company finalized a definitive agreement with Hitachi, Ltd. related to comprehensive LCD panel business alliance under which it would acquire a majority voting interest in IPS Alpha Technology, Ltd. (“IPS Alpha”), which was owned by Hitachi Displays, Ltd. once certain conditions are satisfied. As a result, IPS Alpha became a consolidated subsidiary of the Company on March 31, 2008, in accordance with FIN 46R.

 

In April 2008, Matsushita Refrigeration Company was absorbed, and in October 2008, Matsushita Battery Industrial Co., Ltd. was absorbed, by the Company.

 

On October 1, 2008, the Company changed its name from “Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.” to “Panasonic Corporation” and its ticker symbol on the New York Stock Exchange from “MC” to “PC.” The Company will completecompleted its brand name change from the “National” brand, used for home appliances and housing equipment in Japan, and “Technics” brand, used for audio equipment, to the “Panasonic” brand by the end of fiscal 2010, endingended March 31, 2010. Subsequently, the “National” brand will bewas abolished and the “Technics” brand will be used only for specific audio products. Accordingly, the corporate brands will be “Panasonic” and “PanaHome.”

 

On October 1, 2008, JVC and Kenwood integrated management by establishing JVC KENWOOD Holdings, Inc. (JVC KENWOOD HD) through a share transfer. The company has 24.4% of total issued shares of JVC KENWOOD HD.


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On December 19, 2008, Panasonic and SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (“SANYO”) entered into the capital and business alliance agreement. The Company will aimaimed to acquire the majority of the voting rights of SANYO assuming full dilution (which takes into account conversion of Class A preferred stock and Class B preferred stock into common stock) by means of a public tender offer bid. Panasonic and SANYO will formformed a close alliance in business with the prospect of organizational restructurings of both companies.

 

In April 2009, Toshiba acquired all of Panasonic’s shares in TMD, a joint venture that develops, manufactures and sells liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and organic light emitting displays (OLEDs).

 

In December 2009, Panasonic completed acquisition of a majority of the voting stock of SANYO. With this acquisition, SANYO and its subsidiaries became consolidated subsidiaries of the Company and will continue pursuing its business as a Panasonic Group company.

In January 2010, Panasonic transferred the rights and obligations with respect to the business of System Solutions Company, its internal division company, to Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd., its wholly-owned subsidiary, through business division. The company aims to strengthen the system networking businesses including Security Systems, Broadcast Systems and Wireless VoIP Systems by integrating the system business and the fixed-line communications business toward global growth of B to B system business, in which the visual and communications businesses have been integrating under the further progress of IP networks.

In April 2010, Panasonic reorganized and integrated the Home Appliance and Automotive Motor, and Industrial Motor businesses into the Home Appliances Company. Panasonic also transferred the Information Equipment Motor Business to Minebea Motor Manufacturing Corporation.


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CAPITAL INVESTMENT

 

Total capital investment amounted to 385 billion yen, 494 billion yen 449 billion yen and 418449 billion yen for fiscal 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, respectively. (For a reconciliation of capital investment to the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measures, see “Overview—Key performance indicators” in Section A of Item 5.) In these years, the Company curbed capital investment in a number of business areas, in line with an increased management emphasis on cash flows and capital efficiency. The Company did, however, selectively invest in facilities for those product areas that are expected to drive future growth, including such key areas as batteries and flat-panel TVs, semiconductors, particularly advanced system LSIs and other strategic products.TVs.

 

B.Business Overview

 

SALES BY BUSINESS SEGMENT

 

Panasonic is engaged in the production and sales of electronic and electric products in a broad array of business areas. The Company divides its businesses into six segments: Digital AVC Networks, Home Appliances, PEW and PanaHome, Components and Devices, and Other, adding “SANYO” as a new segment. The following table sets forth the Company’s sales breakdown by business segment for the last three fiscal years:

 

  Yen (billions) (%)

   Yen (billions) (%)

 
  Fiscal year ended March 31,

   Fiscal year ended March 31,

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Digital AVC Networks

  3,749   (13)%  4,320   6 4,064    3,410   (9)%  3,749   (13)%  4,320  

Home Appliances

  1,223   (7 1,316   6   1,247    1,142   (7 1,223   (7 1,316  

PEW and PanaHome

  1,766   (8 1,910   3   1,859    1,632 �� (8 1,766   (8 1,910  

Components and Devices

  1,127   (19 1,399   2   1,378    1,005   (11 1,127   (19 1,399  

SANYO

  405              

Other

  1,072   (1 1,084   9   998    1,012   (6 1,072   (1 1,084  

JVC

        183   (72 646                183  

Eliminations

  (1,171    (1,143    (1,084  (1,188    (1,171    (1,143
  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Total

  7,766   (14)%  9,069   0 9,108    7,418   (4)%  7,766   (14)%  9,069  
  

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 *Percentage above reflects the changes from the previous year.
 *From fiscal 2009, the name of “AVC Networks” was changed to “Digital AVC Networks.”
 *The name of “MEW and PanaHome” was changed to “PEW and PanaHome” as of October 1, 2008.
 *The Company has changed the transactions between Global Procurement Service Company and other segments since April 1, 2008. Accordingly, segment information for Other and eliminations for fiscal 2008 have been reclassified to conform to the presentation for fiscal 2009.
 *The healthcare business was transferred to Panasonic Shikoku Electronics Co., Ltd. on April 1, 2007. Accordingly, the segment information for fiscal 2007 has been reclassified to confirm with the presentation for the year ended March 31, 2008.
 *JVC became an associated company under the equity method from a consolidated subsidiary in the fiscal 2008 second quarter.
*SANYO and its subsidiaries became Panasonic’s consolidated subsidiaries in December 2009. The operating results of SANYO and its subsidiaries after January 2010 are included in the company’s consolidated financial statements.


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Digital AVC Networks

 

Panasonic’s principal products in Digital AVC Networks segment include video and audio equipment and information and communications equipment. This segment provides hardware, software, services and solutions built on cutting-edge technologies as a source of competitiveness. In addition to developing attractive products with the Company’s proprietary technology, Digital AVC Networks links together various equipment to offer consumers more secure and comfortable lifestyles. Moreover, this segment works actively on developing products that will help create a ubiquitous networking society, thereby driving Panasonic’s global growth.

 

In the digital AVC business, Panasonic is pursuing the creation ofmanufacturing a high definition product group containing a variety of AV, security, electronic, and Internet-enabled equipment that can be linked to a flat-panel VIERA TV and easily operated with a single remote. In fiscal 2009, in a turbulent market, Panasonic stepped up measures to strengthen the competitiveness of each product as pillars of this business. In addition, it proposed consumers new lifestyles unique to the Panasonic brand through the further evolution of VIERA Link.remote (VIERA Link).

 

For flat-panel TVs, althoughin fiscal 2010, amid rising global demand, Panasonic expanded its lineup, doubling the number of basic models from the previous year and responding in detail to diversifying market needs. As a result, strong sales were recorded in Japan, where the market was buoyed by the government’s “eco-point” program, and in Asia and emerging markets where high growth incontinued. Unit sales slowed and prices declinedclimbed sharply Panasonic posted steady sales growth based on the seamless and vigorous promotion of both plasma and LCD TVs. Compared with fiscal 2008, flat-panel TV sales increased 1.3 times, recording 10to 15.84 million units, in60% higher than the previous fiscal 2009.year.

 

In plasma TVs, the Company strengthened salesterms of high-value-added sets, substantially enhancing its full HD models as well as launching a 46-inch model. The affordable price of HD models also drove high demand for these sets. Consequently, Panasonic remained the market share leader in many countries, exceeding unit sales units. In LCD TVs, the Company delivered high picture quality and performance by incorporating IPS alpha panels*, which demonstrate superior breadth of viewing angle and other outstanding properties. For personal users, Panasonic worked to expand its business by introducing a compact display, which is available in fiscal 2008 by more than 1.32 million units to reach 5.57 million in a wide range of colors, specifically for terrestrial digital broadcasting. As a result, LCD TV unit sales climbed in excess of 1.22 million units year on year, recording 4.47 million units.

* The In-Plane-Switching mode system utilizes horizontally oriented liquid crystal molecules to provide for wider viewing angles.

Meanwhile, Panasonic worked to establish its flat-panel TV production, system to be ready for future expansion in demand for both plasma and LCD TVs. For plasma TVs, the Company increased panel production efficiency by concentrating PDP production in the Amagasaki plants. For LCD TVs, the Company has started to construct an IPS Alpha plant in Himeji. Panasonic aims to establish a flexible production system that can adjust to demand growth. In light of recent conditions, the Company has reduced its planned capital investment for construction ofmanufacturing began at the fifth domestic PDP plant in Amagasaki in November 2009, and the Company also started operations at the IPS Alpha LCD plant in Himeji in April 2010. These state-of-the-art facilities should raise productivity further, increasing cost competitiveness, as should stepped-up efforts to relocate module and also postponed the start-up dates.finished product production overseas.

 

For Blu-ray Disc and DVD recorders, in fiscal 2010, Panasonic increased its sales amid an expanding market for Blu-ray Disc recorders along with the spread of digital broadcasting and the popularity of flat-panel TVs. Higher sales were also strongly supported by the networking features of Panasonic’s products which enable them to link various devices, as well as basic functions such as extended recording in full HD video and simple operation. Panasonic maintained its top share in the global market as a result.

For digital cameras, amidin fiscal 2010, the sharp downturn in globalmarket remained difficult as demand and severe price declines,fell. While sales of Panasonic LUMIX digital cameras felledged down slightly year on year, in fiscal 2009. However, Panasonic’s products were highly evaluated by the market for their pursuitboth high-value-added and standard models sold well. Impressively, sales of high performance and ease of use. The Company launched the LUMIX G1, the world’s most compact and lightest* digital interchangeable lens system cameras such as the world’s smallest and lightest*1 GF1 model grew strongly on the back of widespread support from novices to camera which also achievesenthusiasts alike for their easy to use functions on par with compact cameras as well as high performance and picture quality thanks to an unconventional mirror-less structure. The combination of compactness, light weight and ease of use has enabled the Company to attract new customers. Panasonic’s compact digitalthat only interchangeable lens system cameras were particularly popular in the market, including models incorporating face recognition, an evolution from “face detection,” and models capable of long periods of HD moving picture recording.can deliver.

*1. For an interchangeable lens digital camera equipped with a movable LCDincorporating an internal flash as of February 9, 2009

For BD and DVD recorders, in fiscal 2009, robust sales were recorded in BD recorders, which were widely embraced by customers, due to the spread of digital HD broadcasting and the unification of next-generation DVD standards. BD recorders that drove sales included models capable of long recording periods for full HD video and of transferring a recorded program onto an SD Memory Card allowing the user to view the program on “one-segment”-enabled mobile phones or VIERA One-Seg. These models helpedApril 1, 2010. Panasonic maintain its top share in the global market.


- 13 -

For portable “One-Segment” TVs in Japan, demand for products that allow people to watch TV or listen to music in the bath is growing. To meet this demand, Panasonic developed VIERA One-Seg, a portable waterproof TV in fiscal 2009. This new product held the top market share for a portable “one-segment”-enabled AV device for nine consecutive months after its launch. The latest model has earned high marks not only by taking advantage of the technology developed for VIERA to provide high picture quality, but also by enabling content recorded on DIGA recorders to be transferred to an SD Memory Card and viewed where one likes.estimate.

 

For digital video cameras, in fiscal 2009,2010, sales were down year on year again due to demand and price declines, particularly in Europe and the United States, and cameStates. The HDC-TM30, the lightest compact model on the market, captured the number-one share in under last year’s figures. Nevertheless, the Company’s strengthened lineup of HD camcorders registered firm growth, mainlyJapan. The HDC-TM300, a high-end model featuring three proprietary sensors, won market acclaim in Japan and Europe.overseas. For example, Camcorderinfo.com™, a major North American reviewer, selected this camcorder as its No.1 model.

 

With respect to PCs, inIn the fiscal 2009, consumers and business users have given high marks to2010 notebook PC market, the Company’s Let’snoteLet’s note and TOUGHBOOK series which have made strong advancesposted lower sales year on year due to dwindling corporate demand both in Japan and overseas. However, Panasonic continued to develop and refine products in these series under the concept of integrating high-performance, lightness, extendedhigh performance, light weight, long battery life and toughness.ruggedness, winning strong acclaim from the market. In particular, the TOUGHBOOK series has maintained the top position in the globalworldwide market for durable field notebooksrugged mobile computers for seveneight consecutive years. And in October 2009, Panasonic added the CF-S and CF-N series business mobile PCs in the Japanese market. These Let’s note models feature even higher performance and extended battery life.

Panasonic is strengthening its system networks business, which integrates the system solutions and fixed-line communications businesses. This is in response to global growth in the BtoB system market, which is seeing increasing integration of image and communications technologies due to advances in IP. As part of this, on January 1, 2010, Panasonic merged its internal division company System Solutions Company and Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd. to form Panasonic System Networks Co., Ltd.

In the system networks business, in fiscal 2010, Panasonic vigorously developed its business operations overseas, centered on Communication Products for connecting people through voice and image, and Security Products for safeguarding human, property and information in companies and regions.

A highlight of the past fiscal year was the largest delivery of system products to an Olympic Winter Games at the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games. Panasonic supplied a range of equipment for the competition venues and the Olympic athlete villages, including LED large screen display systems, professional audio systems, DLP® (Digital Light Processing) projectors and AV security camera systems. Panasonic also shared the excitement of the Olympic Games through high-quality images and sound, such as by connecting welcome ceremonies at the Olympic athlete villages in Whistler and Vancouver via a HD Visual Communications System. This also helped cut athlete entourage travel time and costs as well as CO2 emissions.


- 14 -

 

In the mobile communications business, Panasonic offers mobile phones incorporating advanced technologies, and communications infrastructure equipment such as base stations. Through these products, the Company aims to realize a ubiquitous networking society that offers high-level security and greater convenience and comfort. Moreover, Panasonic proposes new lifestyles by linking mobile phones with its other wide-ranging products, such as the DIGA Blu-ray Disc/DVD recorders. In fiscal 2008, Panasonic launched2010, sales were lower than the handset “VIERA Keitai,” which has a screen that can be opened vertically or horizontally. In fiscal 2009,previous year in the domesticmobile communications business amid persistently weak demand in the Japanese mobile phone market, shrank rapidly, due mainlyparticularly for high-end handsets. However, Panasonic further sought to a change in handset sales incentives andadd value to the economic downturn. Nevertheless, the “VIERA Keitai” series firmly maintained its high market share. This mobile phone series allowsVIERA Keitai series. Besides enabling users to view “one-segment” broadcastswatch programs recorded on Blu-ray Disc-enabled DIGA recorders, the VIERA Keitai series features cameras with enhanced functionality, including high-speed auto focus and features Panasonic’s high-quality image technology derived from flat-panel TVs.Intelligent Auto (iA) mode. Also Panasonic captured market share by developing stylish and simple volume-zone handsets emphasizing basic functions.

 

In the fixed-line communications business, Panasonic annually supplies households around the world with over 30 million telephones and facsimile machines. The Company is also developing its multi-function printers, electronic whiteboard, TV door intercom system, and PC optical disk drive operations. In fiscal 2007, Panasonic launched its HD-PLC adapter in Europe and Japan. In fiscal 2009, Panasonic’s PLC technology, which is used in this HD-PLC adapter, was approved as one of the global standard baseline technologies for broadband over power line networks (IEEE P1901). The technology attracted considerable interest. As awareness of security and crime prevention increases, sales of TV door intercoms with wireless monitors and sensor cameras that can be connected by VIERA Link were strong in Japan.

In the automotive electronics business, Panasonic is developing operationsoperates in wide-ranging fields, from car navigation systems to key devices such as engine control unit.units and batteries for eco cars. As interest rises in green and safer vehicles, automotive electronics are expected to fulfill a wider range of roles, highlighting the considerable growth potential. In fiscal 2009, Panasonic commercialized2010, sales recovered from the previous fiscal year thanks mainly to a rebound in auto sales instigated by government initiatives around the world to spur new car purchases, as well as the lowering of expressway toll charges in Japan, which stimulated demand for ETC terminals. New car navigation system products also drove sales. Strada F Class, afor example, won high marks as the first car navigation system equippedto deliver high-definition picture quality in combination with a world-first*1 home-link feature, which enables drivers to remotely control household appliances from their vehicles. Amid growing usethe world’s first in-car Blu-ray Disc player. Panasonic also bolstered its product lineup with the aggressive launch of Electronic Toll Collection (ETC) systems, Panasonic’s ETC terminal, the smallest in the world*2, was popular among car owners and retained a high market share. The ETC systems are installed in more than 80%*3 of the cars passing through expressway toll booths in Japan, and this is easing traffic congestion at these bottlenecks, which is expected to reduce CO2 emissions.

*1 As of April 25, 2008;new products such as aportable Strada Pocket car navigation product for the consumer market. Panasonic estimate.

*2 As of April 2008; as an antenna separation type on-board device. Panasonic estimate.

*3 As of June 2009

In the system solutions business, Panasonic conducts business in a variety of fields including security systems, broadcasting systems and business solutions. In fiscal 2009, the Company promoted its security business to respond to a variety of growing security needs. Sales of security and surveillance camera systems increased in China, where they were used at the Beijing Olympics, and in the emerging markets. Amid the growing popularity of HD video content, Panasonic introduced multi-format cameras and video editing equipment, which have been well received both in Japan and abroad.systems.

 

Home Appliances

 

Panasonic’s principal products in this segment include home appliances such as washing machines, vacuum cleaners, dishwasher/dryers, rice cookers, microwave ovens, refrigerators, room air conditioners, water heating systems,washing machines and compressors.clothes dryers, and vacuum cleaners. This segment also includes lighting business and environmental systems.


- 14 -

 

In home appliances, leveraging its many yearsPanasonic offers safe, reliable and well-liked products and services in the fields of experience in insulationpeople’s daily living environments closely linked to clothing, food and refrigeration technology, Panasonic developed the U-Vacua series of high-performance vacuum insulation boasting the world’s highest level of thermal insulation in fiscal 2007. With this technology, the Company boosted the storage space of refrigeratorshousing. It also develops products tailored to people’s lives and secured the leading market share in Japan.enhances environmental performance. In fiscal 2009, the Company marketed its home appliance products, such as room air conditioners, refrigerators, and tilted-drum washer/dryers, featuring improved energy-saving performance and a variety of new functions, under the Panasonic brand for the first time nationwide in Japan. The lineup of products for all-electric homes demonstrated the superiority of Panasonic’s product competitiveness and sales network. As a result, sales of “Eco Cute” natural-refrigerant water heating systems and induction-heating (IH) cooking equipment were steady. Panasonic has reached the 3-million mark in cumulative production of IH cooking units since Panasonic developed the first IH cooking unit for the mass market as a 200V model in 1990. In the energy-generation business, which aims to lead the way in “eco ideas,” Panasonic became the first Company to ship a home-use fuel cell, “Ene Farm,” in July 2008. Overseas, Panasonic introduced new refrigerators and washing machines with cutting-edge technologies in Europe in March 2009. In fiscal 2010, sales declined because of lower demand, as well as the negative impact of sluggish room air conditioner sales during unseasonable weather. In Japan, however, refrigerator, room air conditioner, tilted-drum washer/dryers and other product models featuring “ECO NAVI,” which automatically saves electricity depending on the mode of use, won strong support as appliances with a high level of environmental performance, thereby driving sales. Sales were especially strong for large refrigerators with a capacity of 400 liters or more, which benefited from the “eco-point” system in Japan. Overseas, Panasonic washing machines saw strong sales in China on the back of a Chinese government home appliance subsidy program. Furthermore, refrigerators and washing machines in Europe have sold well as consumers have appreciated their industry-leading environmental performance.

 

In the lighting business, Panasonic is endeavoring to develophas been developing products that help to effectively conserve energy utilizeand resources, and reduce the use of substances that may impact the environment. In addition, theare based on universal design. The Company has maintained a top-class share in the lighting field in Japan. In fiscal 2010, low-power-consumption and long-life LED bulbs were released under the EVERLEDS brand in Japan to a strong response from the market. Coupled with the beneficial effect of the generalJapanese government’s “eco-point” system, sales steadily increased. Due to the rapid expansion in demand for LED lighting products, production was moved to a facility in Indonesia that can manufacture large quantities in December 2009. This plant can manufacture 300,000 units per month and optical device marketsis ramping up its production as well as production efficiency by capitalizing on our expertise in Japan, by developing highly-efficient and long-lasting lamps based on its nanotechnology. In fiscal 2009, Panasonic was the first in the fluorescent lamp industry to eliminate the use of environmentally damaging lead, replacing all of its in-house manufactured products with non-lead glass. The Company also increased its recycling of glass from usedproducing ball-type fluorescent lamps. Overseas, Panasonic developed energy-saving measures, primarily in China, such as promoting the use of high-frequency (Hf) fluorescent lamps. These lamps achieved significant reductions in power consumption as a result of greater efficiency when used in combination with special fixtures.

 

The environmental systems business aimsof Panasonic is developing ventilation fan systems, indoor air quality products and environmental engineering businesses, to realize environmentally friendlyoffer environmentally-conscious and comfortable lifestyles, and a recycling-oriented society through the purification of air, water and soil.society. In fiscal 2008, the Company operated a new environmentally friendly factory with significantly reduced air conditioning costs and the installation of thermal insulating material in the roof. In fiscal 2009, Panasonic’s DC motor-driven ceiling mount ventilation fan, which was designed to save energy, be long-lasting and quiet, acquired a market acclaim for its energy conservation. In the home environment systems field, humidifier/2010, air purifiers featuring humidifiers combined with air purifiersand nano-e generators to combat influenza and hay fever were popularperformed strongly in the market, as were dehumidifiers that can be used all year round. In the environmental engineering field,Japan. Moreover, sales of ultra pure water manufacturing equipment for use not only in plasma and LCD panel but also semiconductorpanels, lithium-ion batteries and other production equipment increased favorably. Saleswere strong. Overseas sales grew on the back of purification equipmentrising demand for coating processes were also steady.ceiling fans, particularly in Asia.


- 15 -

 

PEW and PanaHome

 

This segment includes Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. (PEW), PanaHome Corporation (PanaHome) and their respective subsidiaries.

 

PEW manufactures, sells, installs and provides services related to a wide variety of products. These include electrical construction materials, home appliances, building products, electronic materials and automation controls.

 

In fiscal 2007 and 2008, the electrical construction materials business recorded a rise in sales of home fire alarms, in response to an increase of public demand. In thedemand, home appliances business, aestheticfire alarms recorded a rise in sales. Aesthetic products such as nanocare facial ionic steamers won strong market acceptance. In electronic materials business, salesSales of environmentally friendlyenvironmentally-conscious products like multilayer printed circuit board materials and semiconductor encapsulation materials grew significantly. In fiscal 2009, the core construction-related business suffered from the domestic housing market downturn and curbs in private-sector capital expenditures. Furthermore, sales in electronic materials, automation controls and other businesses fell under the impact of production declines across industry sectors. Since sales of horseback-riding fitness machines and other health-related products were also weak, overall sales dropped. Nevertheless, new Panasonic brand products, including personal care products, such as men’s shavers and nanoparticle ion steamers and fully automated cleaning toilet systems, received strong market acceptance. In addition, sales of home fire alarms, increasingly popular products for all-electric homes, and environmentally friendlyenvironmentally-conscious lighting products including LED lighting showed steady growth. In fiscal 2010, PEW continuously posted higher sales of LED lighting in Japan. In addition, sales of new products grew steadily, including the hair dryer “nano care”, which provides UV care with “nano-e” particles, and Massage Sofa, which won strong acceptance in the market for interior design qualities. Modular kitchens and unit baths in the standard-price range also showed steady sales growth. Moreover, PEW aggressively expanded sales of automotive devices such as EV relays and Back & Corner (B&C) sensors in step with the growing demand for eco car in Japan. Overseas sales staged a recovery on rising demand for devices for use in vehicles, digital home appliances, and mobile phones, which was fanned by economic stimulus programs, particularly in China.

 

PanaHome’s operations are primarily focused

PanaHome is developing its business under the basic concept of offering “Eco-Life Homes” that provide people- and environment-conscious living spaces. PanaHome centers on detached housing, asset and property management and home remodeling. In all theseremodeling businesses, to provide living spaces that are friendly to both peopleemphasizing safety and the environment, the Company’s product strategies are guided by the basic “Eco-Life Home” concept, which advocates all-electric homes with an emphasis on safety, security, health and comfort, and high energy efficiency.


- 15 -generation and conservation.

 

In fiscal 2008, PanaHome became the first in the Japanese housing industry to offer an all-electric rental apartment house series called EL MAISON NEXT. In fiscal 2009 and 2010, PanaHome proposed the “Kajiraku” plan, which was designed from a woman’s perspective to make housekeeping easier by facilitating ease of movement. PanaHome also actively developed “Overnight-stay Model Homes” where customers can see, feel,diligently pursued its superior environmental performance and experience homes by staying the night in a model home. As environmental awareness increases, PanaHome’s achievements in contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions through the use of superior insulation and energy-saving features, such asenergy conservation technologies, including solar power generation systems have been given high marks.and all-electric home design fixtures. In recognition of strong acceptance for these activities, PanaHome won the House of the Year in Electric 2009 prize of excellence, receiving a House of the Year award for the third consecutive year.

 

Components and Devices

 

This business segment of Components and Devices supplies high-performance and high-value-added components and devices used in various products ranging from digital AV equipment and information and communication devices to home appliances and industrial equipment. Panasonic develops and strengthens the competitiveness of cutting-edge devices that help equipment become smaller, lighter, slimmer and more sophisticated. This business segment also contributes significantly to making finished products more energy efficient.

 

In the semiconductor business, Panasonic provides a wide range of semiconductor products as total solutions, such as system LSIs integrating multiple functions on a single chip, and image sensors analog LSIs and discrete devices.delivering higher picture quality for digital cameras.

 

The UniPhier® Integrated Platform combines software and hardware resources across different product categories to improve R&D efficiency and design quality. In fiscal 2007, Panasonic began the full-scale mass production of 65-nanometer process system LSIs using 300mm wafers to meet accelerated demand for high-performance digital consumer products. This platform was fully extended to digital product categories such as plasma TVs, DVD recorders and mobile phones. In fiscal 2008, the Company began mass production of 45-nanometer process45nm-process system LSIs using 300mm wafers. In fiscal 2009, the growth in sales of key finished products slumped under the global economic downturn, leading to a sharp slowdown in semiconductor demand and other severe business conditions. Under these circumstances, Panasonic proceeded with the commercialization of 45-nanometer process45nm-process next-generation UniPhier® system LSIs. The Company also developed an application/transmission integrated LSI that combines one system LSI for the communications function of mobile phones and another system LSI for an application function in one UniPhier®. In fiscal 2010, Panasonic developed a new UniPhier® system LSI for displaying high-resolution 3D images, providing network capability and enabling other functions. This new system LSI is incorporated in 3D plasma TVs and Blu-ray Disc recorders. By the end of fiscal 2009,2010, UniPhier® was applied in about 200a total of 300 digital products. AmidPanasonic developed technology for 32nm-process system LSIs with a view to commercialization by the shiftend of fiscal 2011, in order to full HD digital TVs,achieve even higher integration and lower power consumption for semiconductors. Panasonic has supplied optimal image-processing engines for a varietyalso strengthened its management structure. Specifically, in the diffusion process, the Company extended the consolidation of flat-panel TV models.operations to large diameter wafers, which facilitate higher production efficiency. In producing semiconductors for cameras, Panasonic achieved higher picture quality and speed in digital interchangeable lens cameras by fusing the high-sensitivity technologyassembly process, the Company shifted more of its image sensors with the high-speed technology of its system LSIs. The Company has also aggressively developed system LSIs in core business fields including optical disk devices and mobile phones, and accelerated the use of system LSIs in finished products.operations to overseas plants.


- 16 -

 

The electronic devices business utilizes a wide-ranging product group, including capacitors,develops products such as sensors, printed circuit boards, and electromechanical components.capacitors based on three core technologies: membrane and micro electro mechanical system technology, circuit board and mounting technology, and power management technology.

 

To provide optimal key devices and total solutions worldwide to meet finished product concepts, Panasonic has developed high-value-added components mainly for Digital AV equipment, information and communication equipment, and automotive electronics equipment in recent years. In fiscal 2008, the Company opened Device Application Centers which have both development and sales functions, in the U.S., Europe and China, to improve competitive total solutions for its customers. In fiscal 2009, Panasonic maintained its leading global market share for angular rate sensors, which are used for increasing the precision of car navigation systems and for image stabilizers used in digital cameras. In addition, sales of power supplies for plasma TVs were relatively steady. However, sales of capacitors, electromechanical components and other products struggled due to deteriorating market conditions and inventory cutbacks at finished product manufacturers. Nevertheless, the Company focused on growing industries amid the economic downturn and actively endeavored to expand sales. In fiscal 2010, Panasonic worked to speed up management and enhance cost competitiveness. While concentrating business resources on growth fields such as devices for eco-cars, the Company achieved new process innovations. For example, Panasonic achieved the rapid launch of new products by promoting localization in activities ranging from manufacturing to sales at overseas sites.

 

The battery business consists of primary batteries including dry batteries and rechargeable batteries such as lithium-ion batteries. In thisthe primary battery business, besides creating saferPanasonic globally provides dry alkaline EVOLTA batteries, Panasonic develops products that address market needswhich have won recognition for higher capacity, longer life andtheir long life. In rechargeable batteries, that are thinner, smaller and lighter, and more cost effective.


- 16 -

the Company is expanding its business focusing on lithium-ion batteries. In fiscal 2008, responding to increasing demand for electronic equipment that consumes less electricity, Panasonic developed the EVOLTA dry alkaline battery, which offers long life in a wide range of products beyond just digital AV equipment.EVOLTA batteries. In fiscal 2009, the Company started to sell the EVOLTA dry alkaline EVOLTA batteries and rechargeable EVOLTA batteries, expanding its lineup to meet diversified needs. Although battery sales decreased dueIn fiscal 2010, Panasonic started to produce large volumes of high-energy-output 3.1 Ah lithium-ion batteries (18650size) ahead of competitors. Demand for lithium-ion batteries is expected to increase along with the economic slowdown, the EVOLTA series were highly evaluated as an eco product combining both ecologyuptake of eco-cars. Besides outstanding safety, Panasonic’s lithium-ion batteries boast high energy output and economy, thereby recording favorable sales.durability thanks to their nickel-based cathodes.

 

The electric motors business provides products in a variety of fields, including home appliances, industrial equipment, and AV equipment and office products. It developsaims to help customers achieve innovation in their finished products and supplies motors that meet such market needs as high efficiency and performance.

to protect the global environment through the development of energy-efficient motors. In fiscal 2007 and 2008, strong sales were recorded in FA servo motors, motors for vacuum cleaners and compact brushless motors used in game consoles. DuringIn fiscal 2009, although sales declined due to a fall in demand, the electric motors business pushed ahead with efforts to accelerate collaboration with Panasonic’s finished product divisions by proceeding with the start up of mass production of Dual DD motor for the “Dancing laundering & drying system” washer/dryer. Moreover,In fiscal 2010, sales improved overall thanks to steady growth in sales of air conditioner motors in China and industrial motors in China and other Asian countries.

In April 2010, Panasonic reorganized and integrated the Home Appliance and Automotive Motor, and Industrial Motor businesses into the Home Appliances Company. Panasonic also transferred the Information Equipment Motor Business to Minebea Motor Manufacturing Corporation.

SANYO

The SANYO segment consists of SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (SANYO) and its subsidiaries.

As SANYO and its subsidiaries became the Company’s consolidated subsidiaries in December 2009, information for this segment only pertains to the most recent fiscal year, the period from January to March 2010.


- 17 -

SANYO manufactures and sells products in three fields: energy (solar cells and rechargeable batteries), ecology (commercial equipment, home appliances and car electronics), and electronics (electronic devices and digital system devices) to support the energy and ecology fields. SANYO has developed these businesses globally, placing a great emphasis on energy-related businesses. SANYO is drawing on its unique technologies such as lithium-ion batteries widely used in mobile devices and HEVs (hybrid electric motors business contributedvehicles), and HIT® Solar Cells, which boast high conversion efficiency.

In fiscal 2010, the three-month period from January to March 2010, sales of digital cameras struggled due mainly to lower energy consumptionmarket prices of products. However, overall sales were favorable as demand recovered, particularly for solar cells and optical pickups. Amid rising demand spurred by economic stimulus programs and environmental policies in finished products by upgrading motorvarious countries, sales of solar cells increased as SANYO strengthened competitiveness with high conversion efficiency using design optimization that leverages analysis technology and other techniques.manufacturing cost reductions. Sales of lithium-ion batteries and electronic components such as optical pickups registered favorable growth due to recovering demand in the PC market.

 

Other

 

In the factory automation (FA) business, Panasonic supplies manufacturing systems that support the production of advanced electronic equipment, and is contributing toimproving the greater sophisticationperformance of electronic devices withmounting equipment as well as its proprietary wafer processing, surface modification technologies, and flip chip mounting technologies. The Company alsoadvanced technology in circuit manufacturing technology. This contributes to high-qualitycustomers’ businesses through the proposal of various solutions, such as raising the operating rate of mounting lines and increased productivity in printed circuit board production.

mounting quality. In fiscal 2008, Panasonic released new products that enable multiple mounting and mounting of high-brightness LEDs. In fiscal 2009, although the mounting equipment market was stagnant due to the global trend to reduce capital investment, Panasonic targeted a further increase in the performance of its core high-speed modular mounting machines. The Company developed a high-performance head and improved productivity and versatility in response to its client needs. “NPM (Next Production Modular)”, a new modular mounter announced in December 2008, achieves high area productivity by carrying out all processes, from printing and mounting to inspection using the same platform. In addition, “NPM” reduces equipment switching losses with changes in product type orfiscal 2010, Panasonic launched a “full dual lane mounting system” as a next-generation platform offering outstanding function and flexibility as well as future-proofing. By combining the “NPM-DSP (Next Production Modular - Dual Screen Printer)” and “NPM,” this system conveys printed circuit boards (PCBs) on two lanes, that handle the mass production volume. Panasonic expanded its lineup of mounting equipmentsingle modules as well as the mixed production of various different types of PCBs and maintained a global leading market share.simultaneously print on the front and rear.

 

 

MARKETING CHANNELS

 

The table below shows a breakdown of Panasonic’s net sales by geographical area for the periods indicated:

 

  Yen (billions) (%)

   Yen (billions) (%)

 
  Fiscal year ended March 31,

   Fiscal year ended March 31,

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Japan

  4,082  53 4,545  50 4,616  51  3,994  54 4,082  53 4,545  50

North and South America

  997  13   1,251  14   1,381  15    918  12   997  13   1,251  14  

Europe

  963  12   1,213  13   1,218  13    771  11   963  12   1,213  13  

Asia and Others

  1,724  22   2,060  23   1,893  21    1,735  23   1,724  22   2,060  23  
  
  

 
  

 
  

  
  

 
  

 
  

Total

  7,766  100 9,069  100 9,108  100  7,418  100 7,766  100 9,069  100
  
  

 
  

 
  

  
  

 
  

 
  

 

Sales and Distribution in Japan

 

In Japan, Panasonic’s products are sold through several sales channels, each established according to the type of products or customers: Sales of consumer and household products are handled or coordinated by relevant corporate sales divisions, such as the Corporate Marketing Division for Digital AVC Products and the Home Appliances and Wellness Products Marketing Division, while sales of general electronic components and certain other devices to manufacturers are handled by the Corporate Industrial Marketing & Sales Division, in each case to stay close to respective customers and meet their specific and ever-diversifying needs. For other products, there are also organizations under the direct control of business domain companies that conduct sales and marketing of their own products, mostly to non-consumer customers, such as industrial and business corporations, public institutions, construction companies and governments through their sales offices and subsidiaries or through outside agencies.


- 1718 -

 

In fiscal 2005, Panasonic and PEW integrated the sales functions of each of the electrical supplies, building materials and equipment, and home appliances businesses as a part of collaboration between the two companies.

 

As a part of collaboration between Panasonic and SANYO, the two companies intend to promote mutual use of sales channels in Japan and overseas. On July 1, 2010, Panasonic will launch HIT® 215 Series household solar power generation systems, the first series of collaborative products to be developed since SANYO became a part of the Panasonic group. The Company will fully utilize its sales channels in Japan.

Overseas Operations

 

Worldwide, Panasonic has 540679 consolidated companies as well as 182232 associated companies which are accounted for byunder the equity method. International marketing and sales of Panasonic’s products are handled mainly through its sales subsidiaries and affiliates located in respective countries or regions in coordination with business domain companies and regional headquarter companies. In some countries, however, marketing and sales are handled through independent agents or distributors, depending on regional characteristics. Additionally, certain products are also sold on an OEM basis and marketed under the brand names of third parties.

 

Overseas sales represented approximately 47%46% of the Company’s total consolidated sales in fiscal 2009.2010.

 

Overseas operations are expected to serve as a “growth engine”growth engine for the entire Panasonic Group. Panasonic will therefore further strengthen ties between manufacturing companies in various regions and business domain companies in Japan. Panasonic will also identify strategic products and sales channels for each region and country, and effectively allocate management resources in order to achieve further progress and strengthen management structure. In addition to markets in Europe and the United States, Panasonic views the growing BRICs + V*1and VietnamMINTS + B*2 markets as a key to success overseas.

 

The CompanyPanasonic established a Russia Division, India Coordination Department and Brazil Coordination Department in April 2007. The Company also established sales company in Turkey in June 2009.

*1BRICs+V: Brazil, Russia, India, China and Vietnam
*2MINTS+B: Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the Balkans

 

Customers

 

The largest markets for Panasonic have traditionally been consumer products. However, since the 1980s, the proportion of sales to non-consumer customers, such as industrial and business corporations, governments and other institutions, including large customers such as electric and electronic equipment manufacturers, automotive manufacturers and various other machinery makers, has been rising as Panasonic places increasing emphasis on industrial and commercial products and systems and electronic components. Panasonic’s business is not materially dependent on any single customer.

 

 

SEASONALITY OF BUSINESS

 

The Company’s business has no significant seasonality in terms of sales or profits. However, for the consumer electronics business, the fiscal third quarter (October to December) is normally a peak period because it falls in the year-end shopping season in Japan and many overseas markets. Additionally, seasonal appliances, such as air conditioners and refrigerators, have different business cycles, sales of which peak in summer. These do not have a material effect upon the Company’s overall operations.

 

 

RAW MATERIALS AND SOURCE OF SUPPLY

 

Panasonic purchases a wide variety of parts and materials from various suppliers globally. The Company applies a multi-sourcing policy—not depending upon any one particular source of supply for most essential items. The Company has also been endeavoring to promote a policy of global optimum procurement by concentrating order placements to qualified suppliers from all over the world and purchasing the most competitive parts and materials.


- 19 -

 

In an attempt to improve operational efficiency and to reduce parts and materials costs, Panasonic has been increasing centralized purchasing at its headquarters for materials commonly used in many product divisions throughout Panasonic, such as steel, plastics, semiconductors and electronic components, while at the same time accelerating the initiatives to standardize parts and grade unification of steel and resin. Such efforts are coordinated by the Global Sourcing CentreCenter established in April 2003. At the business domain company level, an increasing focus has been put on centralized purchasing for parts and materials commonly used in factories within each business domain company.


- 18 -

 

To minimize the adverse effects of global price increase of raw materials, Panasonic further strengthened materials cost reduction initiatives including a reduction in the number of parts through the standardization of design, use of “Value Engineering” techniques, and additional cost reduction activities covering indirect materials.

 

WithDue to an increasing global awareness of CSR values, the Company recently decided to extend its commitment to social responsibility by requiring its suppliers to maintain environmental preservations, quality, safety, information security management, human rights and comply with the related laws and regulations.

 

To strengthen Panasonic eco ideasimplement Panasonic’s ‘eco ideas’ Declaration, Panasonic promotesthe Company is promoting joint activities with business partners to reduce the impact of business activities on the global environment and accelerate the PDCA management cycle, effective from 2009.fiscal 2010.

 

By implementing above mentionedthe above-mentioned activities and strengthening partnership with excellent suppliers, Panasonic aims to reinforce its procurement activities.

 

 

PATENT LICENSE AGREEMENTS

 

Panasonic holds numerous Japanese and foreign patent registrations for its products, and shares technologies with a number of Japanese and foreign manufacturers. Its technical assistance, or licensing, to other manufacturers has been increasing year by year.

 

For example, Panasonic’s patents related to MPEG2 technology, which is widely used in digital TVs, are licensed to other companies through MPEG LA LLC. Patents which are essential to DVD technology are licensed as a part of the joint licensing program operated by seven Japanese, U.S. and Korean companies. Furthermore, the Company’s patents relating to CD technology are licensed to many manufacturers. Further, Panasonic has non-exclusive cross-license agreements with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. for semiconductor technology and with Sharp Corporation for mobile phone technology.

 

Panasonic is a licensee under various license agreements which cover a wide range of products, including AV products, computers, communications equipment, semiconductors and other components. Panasonic has non-exclusive patent license agreements with, among others, Technicolor S.A., Thomson Licensing Inc.LLC. and Thomson Licensing S.A. covering a broad range of products, including TVs, VCRs and DVD products. Panasonic has non-exclusive patent cross-license agreements with, among others, Texas Instruments Incorporated and International Business Machines Corporation, both covering semiconductors, information equipment and certain other related products. Further, Panasonic has a non-exclusive patent cross-license agreement with Eastman Kodak Company covering digital still camera, camcorder and mobile phones. Panasonic has a non-exclusive patent cross-license agreement with Ericsson covering mobile phonesphones.

 

The Company considers all of its technical exchange and license agreements beneficial to its operations.

 

 

COMPETITION

 

The markets in which the Company sells its products are highly competitive. Panasonic’s principal competitors, across the full range of its products, consist of several large Japanese and overseas manufacturers and a number of smaller and more specialized companies. Advancements toward a borderless economy have also applied pressure to Japanese manufacturers, including Panasonic, in terms of global price competition, especially from Chinese and Korean manufacturers. To counter this, the Company is devising various measures to enhance its competitiveness, with a focus on the development of differentiated products, cost reduction and efficiency improvements. Such measures include the development of products with Panasonic’s differentiated technologies, innovation of manufacturing processes through the use of information technology, increasing overseas production for optimum manufacturing allocation from a global perspective, and shortening production and distribution lead time through the expansion of supply chain management (SCM) in cooperation with several overseas and domestic mass-scale retailers and the introduction of cell-style production, as well as developing joint ventures and other cooperative agreements with domestic and overseas partners.time.

 

Also, with the development of digital and networking technologies, competition in terms of the so-called de facto standard has become crucial. In response, Panasonic has been strengthening its efforts toward alliances with leaders not only in the electronics industry but also the software, devices, broadcasting, communications services and other diverse industries.


- 1920 -

 

GOVERNMENT REGULATIONS

 

Like other electronics manufacturers, Panasonic is subject to governmental regulations related to environmental preservation.

 

To comply with recycling laws both in Japan and other countries/regions, Panasonic has been actively taking measures. The Company established an efficient system to collect and recycle used home appliances, comprising air conditioners, CRT TVs, flat-panel TVs, refrigerators, washing machines and clothes dryers in compliance with the Law for Recycling of Specified Kinds of Home Appliances in Japan effective April 1, 2001. As one of its measures to contribute to the establishment of a recycling-oriented society, the Company established the Panasonic Eco Technology Center Co., Ltd. not only to dismantle used products, or recycle scrapped materials, but also to promote research and development of recycling technologies. In Europe, the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive designed to promote recycling came into force in August 2005. Preparing for mandatory recycling under the WEEE directive, Panasonic established Ecology Net Europe GmbH (ENE) in Germany in April 2005. The Company promotes construction of networks connecting manufacturers, recycling companies and hauling companies through ENE. In the U.S., Panasonic Corporation of North America, which is a regional company of Panasonic, has established a new electronic product recycling management company, Electronics Manufacturers Recycling Management Company, LLC (MRM) with other manufacturers to satisfy requirements enacted in July 2007 in the state of Minnesota. Although MRM’s initial focus was to collect products in Minnesota, a scope of operation has been developing to expand its activities to other states with electronic product recycling mandates. Through these efforts, Panasonic is carrying out its compliance programs not only to meet the requirements demanded by legislations, but also to establish cost efficient systems that will further enhance its competitive edge.

 

In January 2003, the Company announced that disposed electric equipment that containedcontaining polychlorinated biphenyl (PCB) might be buried in the ground of its four manufacturing facilities and one former manufacturing facility in Japan.Japan, and excavation measures were completed at the end of March 2009. The applicable laws in Japan require that PCB equipment be appropriately maintained and disposed of by July 2016. The Company has accrued estimated total cost of approximately 129 billion yen by March 31, 20092010 for necessary actions, such as investigation on whether the PCB equipment is buried at the facilities by excavating, maintaining and disposing the PCB equipment that is already discovered, and soil remediation. Although it represents management’s best estimate or minimumIn light of those regulations, the cost,Company has been taking necessary actions such as investigating by excavation whether the payments are not consideredPCB equipment is buried at the facilities, maintaining and disposing the PCB equipment that have been already discovered, and soil remediation, aiming to be fixedfacilitate the proper management of PCB waste and determined.full-scale measures for soil remediation.

 

To deal with climate change issues, various kinds of measures, have been taken worldwide, especially those for energy efficiency of products.products, have been taken worldwide. In Japan, the Energy Conservation Law was revised in 1999, and the Top-runner standard was introduced, which aims to continuously increase products’ energy efficiency performance on an industry-wide basis. TheAs a target value for a goal year, the Program uses a value of the product with the highest energy consumption efficiency on a market at the time ofduring the standard establishment process as a target value for a goal year. An areaprocess. The scopes of targetedcovered products has beenare expanding, and a standard gets stricter ifstandards become more stringent as necessary. Other countries/regions, such as the European Union, the United States, China, Korea, and Australia also have regulations for energy conservation improvement (energy-saving standards and labeling systems) for home appliances and AV products. Panasonic takes a proactive measure to comply with these requirements, and further promotes development of energy-saving products.

 

Also, Panasonic is promoting its initiatives for directivesregulations relevant to chemical substances management. In Europe, the RoHS Directive, thatwhich bans the sales of electrical and electronic equipment using six specified hazardous substances (Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, Hexavalent chromium, Polybrominated biphenyls, Polybrominated diphenyl ethers) from the EU market, was issued in February 2003. The Company completed initiatives for the non-use of the abovementioned six specified hazardous substances in its target products* (31,400 models)covered products by the end of October 2005, in order to reduce possible contamination by these substances after products are disposed of. AndAdditionally, the Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemical Substances (REACH)REACH regulation came into force in June 2007. The REACH requires all chemicals of one ton or more in volume that are manufactured in or imported into the European Union each year to be evaluated for health and safety and registeredimpact, registration with a centralthe European Chemical Agency. InAgency (ECHA), and sharing of information and notification thereof to the ECHA regarding content of ECHA-specified substances of very high concern in products. Laws and regulations similar to the EU RoHS Directive are implemented in Japan, South Korea, China, and some states in the Law Concerning the Examination and Regulation of Manufacture, etc of Chemical Substances were introduced in 1973, and revised in 1986 and 2003. It aims for preventing pollution of the environment by chemical substances with persistent harmful properties by establishing a system of examination by regulating target substances manufactured, imported and used.US such as California. In the revised Law forAct on the Promotion of Effective Resource Utilization of Resources in Japan it is required for manufacturers to disclose information about targeted chemical substances same asand the EU RoHS substances contained in 7 specific products (air conditioners, refrigerators, television sets, personal computers, washing machines, microwaves, and clothing dryers) by attaching a label. In China, Management MethodsAdministration on the Control of Pollution fromCaused by Electronic Information Products commonly known as “China RoHS,” took effect from March 1, 2007. This applies to electronic information products imported or manufactured in China, thatmanufacturers and importers are sold on the Chinese market. Restricted substances are the same as the 6 EU RoHS substances, and it is required to disclose information abouton the chemical substances targeted in the EU RoHS contained in specific products by placing athrough label on a product packaging.application. Panasonic is carrying out its compliance programs to meet the requirements of relevant regulations.


- 20 -

 

The Company is subject to a number of other government regulations in Japan and overseas as mentioned above, but overall, it presently manages to operate its businesses without any significant difficulty or financial burden in coping with them.


- 21 -

*Excluding products that use materials and components with no feasible alternatives or suppliers, for example products or material/components commonly used in other industries (e.g. housing materials, and bicycles). Also excluding components/materials for which applications to be exempted from the RoHS Directive were submitted to the EU by the end of October 2005.

 

 

REPORT ON KEROSENE FAN HEATER RECALL

AND COMPANY’S COUNTERMEASURES

 

In 2005, certain kerosene fan heaters, which were manufactured by Panasonic between 1985 and 1992, resulted in hospitalization, and in some cases death, due to exposure to carbon monoxide exhaust. To prevent a recurrence, in November 2005, the Company established a special committee led by President Nakamura to implement recall efforts, product inspections and repairs of affected models of kerosene fan heaters. Using various media, Panasonic notified customers of the risks involved in the use of these products, while sending out employees (approximately 200,000 in total) to distribute leaflets directly to users, and visit kerosene suppliers.

 

Panasonic has made all-out efforts to locate recalled kerosene fan heaters through the cooperation of various parties, and will continue efforts to identify the purchasers and users of all remaining recalled heaters. At the same time, to prevent a recurrence, the Company is carrying out a wide range of initiatives. On May 1, 2006, Panasonic reorganized the aforementioned special committee into a permanent organization, the Corporate FF Customer Support & Management Division, under which Panasonic has continued recall efforts through various public awareness campaigns. Furthermore, the Company thoroughly has reviewed product safety in design and manufacturing processes. Specifically, Panasonic has undertaken studies of material deterioration caused by long-term use, together with the development of technologies to prevent risks caused by complex factors involved in the extended use of certain products. Furthermore, the Company has established a new risk management system to enable prompt action in an emergency, in compliance with its primary principle, the customer comes first. The Company has also reinforced safety education programs for the presidents of all Group companies, the directors of all divisions and the managers responsible for specific operations (such as design, manufacturing, and quality control). In terms of product quality issues, in addition to its commitment to the idea that safety and quality come first from the product design stage, Panasonic will continue to take all possible measures, such as the analysis of product age-related degradation and user environments, to ensure the quality and safety of products.

 

C.Organizational Structure

 

In order to maintain production, sales and service activities effectively in broad business areas as a comprehensive electronics manufacturer, Panasonic has been operating under a decentralized divisional management structure with substantial delegation of authority to divisional companies and subsidiaries, with the headquarters focusing on Groupwide strategic functions. In January 2003, Panasonic launched a new business domain-based organizational structure, and introduced new Group management control systems from April 1, 2003. Under this new structure, each business domain company, either an internal divisional company of the parent company or a subsidiary, takes full responsibility in its own business area, thereby establishing an autonomous management structure that expedites self-completive business operations to accelerate growth. On April 1, 2004, PEW, PanaHome and their respective subsidiaries became consolidated subsidiaries of the Company. Accordingly, the Company successfully eliminated overlaps in R&D, manufacturing and sales, thereby creating an optimum Group structure that facilitates the effective use of management resources to achieve growth strategies. JVC (Victor Company of Japan Ltd. and its subsidiaries) became associated companies under the equity method from consolidated subsidiaries in August 2007. SANYO and its subsidiaries became the Companys consolidated subsidiaries in December 2009.


- 2122 -

 

Panasonic’s consolidated financial statements as of March 31, 20092010 comprise the accounts of 540680 consolidated companies, with 182232 associated companies reflected byunder the equity method.

 

Principal divisional companies and subsidiaries as of March 31, 20092010 are as listed below:

 

 (1)Internal divisional companies of Panasonic Corporation:

 

Name of internal divisional company


   

AVC Networks Company

  

Automotive Systems Company

  

System SolutionsNetworks Company

  

Home Appliances Company

  

Lighting Company

  

Semiconductor Company

  

Energy Company

  

Motor Company

  

 

Note: Home Appliances Company integrated Motor business of Motor Company, accordingly Motor Company was dissolved, effective April 1, 2010.

 (2)Principal domestic subsidiaries:

Name of company


  Percentage
owned


 

SANYO Electric Co., Ltd.

50.2

Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd.

 52.1%  

IPS Alpha Technology, Ltd.

  44.9  

Panasonic Plasma Display Co., Ltd.

 75.0  

Panasonic CommunicationsSystem Networks Co., Ltd.

  100.0  

PanaHome Corporation

 54.654.5  

Panasonic Electronic Devices Co., Ltd.

  100.0  

Panasonic Mobile Communications Co., Ltd.

 100.0  

Panasonic Factory Solutions Co., Ltd.

  100.0  

Panasonic Ecology Systems Co., Ltd.

 100.0  

Panasonic Shikoku Electronics Co., Ltd.

 100.0  


- 2223 -

 

 (3)Principal overseas subsidiaries:

Name of company


  Country of
incorporation


  Percentage
owned


 

Panasonic Corporation of North America

  U.S.A.  100.0

Panasonic Europe Ltd.

  U.K.  100.0  

Panasonic AVC Networks Czech, s.r.o.

  Czech Republic  100.0  

Panasonic Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.

  Singapore  100.0  

Panasonic AVC Networks Singapore Pte. Ltd.

  Singapore  100.0  

Panasonic CommunicationsSystem Networks Philippines Corporation

  Philippines  100.0  

Panasonic Taiwan Co., Ltd.

  Taiwan  69.8  

Panasonic Corporation of China

  China  100.0  

Panasonic Home Appliances Air-Conditioning (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd.

  China  67.8  


- 2324 -

 

D.Property, Plants and Equipment

 

The Company’sPanasonic’s principal executive offices and key research laboratories are located in Kadoma, Osaka, Japan.

 

Panasonic’s manufacturing plants are located principally in Japan, other countries in Asia, North and South America and Europe. The CompanyPanasonic considers all of its factories well maintained and suitable for current production requirements. In addition to its manufacturing facilities, Panasonic’s properties all over the world include sales offices, research and development facilities, employee housing and welfare facilities, and administrative offices.

 

Substantially all of facilities are fully owned by the Company and its subsidiaries. The following table sets forth information as of March 31, 20092010 with respect to the Company-ownedPanasonic-owned principal facilities:

 

Name and Principal Location


 

Floor Space
(thousands of
  square feet)  


  

Principal Products Manufactured or Functions


(The Company)

     

Kadoma Plant, Osaka

 2,4562,452      

Video and audio equipment

Ibaraki Plant, Osaka

 818830      

Video equipment

Sendai Plant, Miyagi

 370369      

Video and audio equipment

Yamagata Plant, Yamagata

 425424      

Video and audio equipment

Matsumoto Plant, Nagano

 325      

Car AVC equipment

Kusatsu Plant, Shiga

 3,6243,560      

Room air-conditions and refrigerators

Kobe Plant, Hyogo

 820828      

Information equipment and cooking appliances

Yashiro Plant, Hyogo

 381      

Rice cookers

Tsuyama Plant, Okayama

 675677      

Recordable media

Okayama Plant, Okayama

 604      

Camcorders

Nara Plant, Nara

 1,728      

Home appliances

Saedo Plant, Kanagawa

 348      

Information equipment and car AVC equipment

Takatsuki Plant, Osaka

 1,6741,785      

Electric lamps

Nagaoka Plant, Kyoto

 969      

Semiconductors

Arai Plant, Niigata

 1,115      

Semiconductors

Uozu Plant, Toyama

 1,492      

Semiconductors

Tonami Plant, Toyama

 841      

Semiconductors

Osaka Plant, Osaka

 1,4741,467      

Batteries

ShonanSuminoe Plant, KanagawaOsaka

 3091,030      

Batteries

Wakayama Plant, Wakayama

 329 ��178      

Batteries

ULSI Process TechnologyR&D Advanced Device Development Center, Kyoto

 208      

Research and development functions

Living Environment Development Center etc., Osaka

 804      

Research and development functions

Production Engineering Laboratory etc., Osaka

 1,2261,087      

Research and development functions

Advanced Technology Research Laboratories, Kyoto

 243      

Research and development functions


- 2425 -

 

Name and Principal Location


 

Floor Space
(thousands of
  square feet)  


  

Principal Products Manufactured or Functions


Branch Office and Sales Office, Osaka

 582559      

Sales functions

Head Office etc., Osaka

 6,6513,935      

Corporate administration, employee housing and welfare facilities

(Domestic subsidiaries)

     

Panasonic Mobile Communications Co., Ltd., Kanagawa

 3,6743,007      

Mobile communications and communications network-related equipment

Panasonic CommunicationsSystem Networks Co., Ltd., Fukuoka

 1,9911,556      

TelephonesSurveillance and multi-function printerssecurity cameras, settlement and verification terminals, IP-related equipment

Panasonic Shikoku Electronics Co., Ltd., Ehime

 2,664      

Healthcare equipment, optical pickup and other electro-optic devices

Panasonic Plasma Display Co., Ltd., Hyogo

 4,6717,559      

Plasma TVs and TV modules

IPS Alpha Technology, Ltd., Chiba

 2,298      

LCD panels

IPS Alpha Technology Himeji, Ltd., Hyogo

3,865    

LCD panels

Panasonic Ecology Systems Co., Ltd., Aichi

 1,4911,480      

Ventilation and air-conditioning equipment

Panasonic Photo & Lighting Co., Ltd., Osaka

 388      

Electric lamps

Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. and its subsidiaries,, Osaka

 34,16517,410      

Lighting fixtures, wiring devices and automation controls

PanaHome Corporation, and its subsidiaries, Osaka

 4,1124,022      

Detached housing and rental apartment housing

Panasonic Electronic Devices Co., Ltd., Osaka

 3,0303,224      

Components

Panasonic Electronic Devices Japan Co., Ltd., Osaka

 3,0333,072      

Components

Panasonic Semiconductor Discrete Devices Co., Ltd., Kyoto

 846      

Semiconductors

SANYO Electric Co., Ltd., Osaka

16,261    

Solar cells, rechargeable batteries, electronic devices, commercial equipment, AV equipment and home appliances

Panasonic Factory Solutions Co., Ltd., Osaka

 1,020      

Electronic-components-mounting machines and industrial robot

Panasonic Welding Systems Co., Ltd., Osaka

 386      

Welding equipment

Panasonic Consumer Marketing Co., Ltd., Osaka

 57      

Sales functions


- 2526 -

 

Name and Principal Location


 

Floor Space
(thousands of
  square feet)  


  

Principal Products Manufactured or Functions


(Overseas subsidiaries)

     

Panasonic Corporation of North America, U.S.A.

 1,8762,152      

Manufacture and sales, with regional headquarters functions

Panasonic Avionics Corporation, U.S.A.

 420        

Airline AVC equipment

Panasonic Brazil Co., Ltd., Brazil

 642      

Manufacture and sales functions

Panasonic AVC Networks Czech, s.r.o., Czech Republic

838    

Plasma and LCD TVs

IPS Alpha Technology Europe, s.r.o., Czech Republic

 420408      

LCD panels

Panasonic AVC Networks Czech, s.r.o., Czech Republic

773    

Plasma and LCD TVsmodules

Panasonic U.K. Ltd., U.K.

 322100      

Sales functions

Panasonic Electronic Devices Europe gmbh, Germany

349    

Components

Panasonic Semiconductor Asia Pte. Ltd., Singapore

 462      

Semiconductors

Panasonic Refrigeration Devices Singapore Pte. Ltd., Singapore

 724      

Refrigerators

Panasonic Electronic Devices Malaysia, Malaysia

1,134    

Components

Panasonic Taiwan Co., Ltd., Taiwan

 1,4781,473      

Manufacture and sales functions

Panasonic Wanbao Compressor (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd., China

 1,181      

Compressors

Panasonic Semiconductor (Suzhou) Co., Ltd., China

 469      

Semiconductors

Panasonic Home Appliances (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd., China

883    

Compressors and washing machines

Panasonic Home Appliances Air-Conditioning (Guangzhou) Co., Ltd., China

 1,102      

Air-conditioning equipment

Panasonic Home Appliances Washing Machine (Hangzhou) Co., Ltd., China

1,357    

Washing machines

Panasonic Corporation of China, China

 —        

Sales with regional headquarters functions

 

In addition to the Company-ownedPanasonic-owned facilities, as of March 31, 2009,2010, the Company and its subsidiaries shown in above table leased approximately 22.415.0 million square feet of floor space from third parties, most of which was for sales office space.

 

Substantially all of Panasonic’s properties are free of material encumbrances and Panasonic believes such properties are in adequate condition for their purposes and suitably utilized. During fiscal 2009,2010, there was no material problem, regarding both the productive capacity and the extent of utilization of the Company’sPanasonic’s properties.

 

In terms of environmental issues, all of the Panasonic Group’sPanasonic’s properties operate in compliance with governmental and municipal laws and regulations. Furthermore, the Company established a number of internal environmental guidelines which are stricter than those provided by the relevant authorities. In case any occasional non-compliance may take place, such as the previously mentioned PCB issue, Panasonic takes immediate and appropriate actions to meet the regulatory requirements and to ensure current good utilization standards.


- 2627 -

 

Item 4A.Unresolved Staff Comments

 

The Company is a large accelerated filer as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. There are no written comments which have been provided by the staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding the Company’s periodic reports under that Act not less than 180 days before the end of the fiscal year ended March 31, 20092010 and which remain unresolved as of the date of the filing of this Form 20-F with the Commission.


- 2728 -

 

Item 5.Operating and Financial Review and Prospects

 

A.Operating Results

 

Overview

 

Panasonic is one of the world’s leading producers of electronic and electric products. Panasonic currently offers a comprehensive range of products, systems and components for consumer, business and industrial use based on sophisticated electronics and precision technology, expanding to building materials and equipment, and housing business. As of October 1, 2008, the Company changed its company name from “Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.” to “Panasonic Corporation.” Upon the company name change, Panasonic implemented its brand name change from the “National” brand, used for home appliances and housing equipment in Japan, and “Technics” brand, used for audio equipment, to the “Panasonic” brand. This brand name change will be completed byOn December 21, 2009, the endCompany exchanged nonvoting stocks of fiscal 2010, ending March 31, 2010.SANYO, which had been acquired through a tender offer, for common stock, and as a result, the Company acquired 50.2% of the voting rights of SANYO and obtained a controlling interest in SANYO. Accordingly, the corporate brands will be “Panasonic”became “Panasonic,” “PanaHome” and “PanaHome.“SANYO.

 

Panasonic divides its businesses into fivesix segments: Digital AVC Networks, Home Appliances, PEW and PanaHome, Components and Devices, and Other.Other, adding “SANYO” as a new segment. “Digital AVC Networks” includes video and audio equipment, and information and communications equipment. “Home Appliances” includes household equipment. “PEW and PanaHome” includes electrical supplies, home appliances, building materials and equipment, and housing business. “Components and Devices” includes semiconductors, general electronic components, batteries and electric motors. “SANYO” includes solar cells and lithium-ion batteries, optical pickups, and others. “Other” includes FA equipment and other industrial equipment.

 

JVC issuedSANYO focuses its efforts in manufacturing, sales, maintenance and allocated new shares of its common stock to third parties on August 10, 2007.services in the consumer, commercial, component and other businesses. As a result Panasonic’s shareholding of JVC decreased from 52.4% to 36.8%,this acquisition, the Company and JVC and its subsidiaries became an associated companySANYO believe that a strong collaborating relationship between the two companies will be established under the equity method from a consolidated subsidiarylarge business strategy as an united business group, and through this collaboration, great synergy will be generated, such as the further expansion in the fiscal 2008 second quarter. On October 1, 2008, JVC and Kenwood integrated management by establishing JVC KENWOOD Holdings, Inc. (JVC KENWOOD HD) through a share transfer. The Company has 24.4%solar business, reinforcement of total issued shares of JVC KENWOOD HD. Given JVC’s equity method investment status, the income statement and balance sheet impact of JVC is expected to decrease significantly in future periods and insignificant compared to both existing business segment reporting and consolidated income before income taxes. The provisions of SFAS No. 131 in these circumstances are not applicable to insignificant entities and accordingly, sales and profitcompetitiveness in the JVC segment are no longer reported subsequentrechargeable battery business, strengthening of the financial and business position of SANYO through the application of the Company’s cost reduction know-how, and creation of a comprehensive solution business centered on the environment and energy.

In the year ended March 31, 2010, the Company achieved a significant improvement in cash reserves through its enhanced cash flow management project. As a result, free cash flow for the year improved by 644 billion yen compared with the Company’s original plan. This was more than enough to cover the dateacquisition cost of deconsolidation.SANYO, 404 billion yen. Cash reserves were approximately 1,200 billion yen at the end of fiscal 2010 including SANYO’s cash reserves.

 

Economic environment

 

In the year ended March 31, 2007, the Japanese economy maintained a recovery trend as a result of favorable exports and increased capital investment. In the year ended March 31, 2008, the Japanese economy for the first half continued a recovery trend with an improvement in consumer spending, but for the second half the Japanese economy slowed down, as a result of negative factors such as rising prices for crude oil and raw materials, and a stronger yen against the U.S. dollar. In the year ended March 31, 2009, the Japanese economy encountered very severe conditions due to the global financial crisis and the sharply deterioratedsharp deterioration of the world economy.

The overseas economy, in In the year ended March 31, 2007,2010, thanks to the U.S.various economic stimulus programs such as the government’s “eco-point” system, the Japanese economy despite a decreasehit bottom and returned to recovery from the previous year.

As for the overseas economy, in housing investment, continued growth with robust consumer spending and an increase in capital investment. Meanwhile, in major European countries, there was a trend toward moderate economic recovery with increased consumer spending. In Asia, the Chinese economy maintained a high growth rate. In the year ended March 31, 2008, the U.S. economy provedwas sluggish in the second half of fiscal 2008 sinceas the subprime loan problem in the U.S. led to downturns in both housing investment and consumer spending. Meanwhile, European economy, althoughin Europe, economic growth continued for the first half, but slowed down in the second half of fiscal 2008, due mainly to a downturn in consumer spending. In Asia, the Chinese economy maintained a high growth rate due mainly to favorable export.strong exports. In the year ended March 31, 2009, the global financial crisis caused a rapid economic downturn worldwide, and this caused negative effects on the Japanese economy through a sharp decrease in exports and capital investment. In the year ended March 31, 2010, despite a visible market recovery in some regions such as China and Asia, the industry in general was unable to overcome the impact of the global recession. Due to these circumstances, the market structure underwent rapid change especially in terms of demand shifts to emerging markets and lower-priced products, along with the expansion of environment and energy related markets.


- 2829 -

 

Condition of foreign currency exchange rates and Panasonic’s policy

 

Foreign currency exchange rates fluctuated during the three-year period ended March 31, 2009. In the year ended March 31, 2007, the Japanese yen was weak against the U.S dollar and euro.2010. In the year ended March 31, 2008, there was a sharp increase in the Japanese yen against the U.S. dollar. In the year ended March 31, 2009, there continued a sharp increase in the Japanese yen against the major currencies such as the U.S. dollar and euro. In the year ended March 31, 2010, there was also an increasing appreciation of the yen. In order to alleviate the effects of currency-related transaction risks, Panasonic has traditionally used several currency risk hedging methods, such as forward foreign-exchange contracts and currency options contracts with leading banks. Panasonic has also increased matching of export and import exchange contracts. As a basic countermeasure against currency exchange risk, the Company has been strengthening production operations outside Japan to meet overseas demand, while reducing dependence on exports from Japan. The Company does not have any material unhedged monetary assets, liabilities or commitments denominated in currencies other than the individual operations’ functional currencies.

 

Summary of operations

 

Panasonic’s consolidated sales and earnings results during the last three fiscal years, reflecting the aforementioned external and internal conditions, can be summarized as follows:

 

In fiscal 2010, net sales amounted to 7,418 billion yen, down 4% from the previous year. Sales declined in all segments mainly as a result of a sharp deterioration of the world economy. The operating results of SANYO and its subsidiaries after January 2010 are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements. Earnings improved significantly due mainly to restructuring initiatives such as streamlining material costs and reducing fixed costs. Regarding other income (deductions), the Company incurred expenses of 220 billion yen including business restructuring expense such as the implementation of early retirement programs. These factors resulted in a pre-tax loss of 29 billion yen, improved from a pre-tax loss of 383 billion yen in fiscal 2009. Accordingly, net income attributable to Panasonic Corporation was a loss of 103 billion yen, improved from a loss of 379 billion yen a year ago.

In fiscal 2009, net sales amounted to 7,766 billion yen, down 14% from the previous year. Sales declined in all segments mainly as a result of a sharp deterioration of the world economy from October 2008. Regarding earnings, although the Company implemented thorough streamlining of material costcosts by reducing the number of components and improving material yield ratio and made all-out efforts to reduce fixed cost,costs, the effect of a sharp sales decline, including an approximately 20-30% decrease in prices for flat-panel TVs and rising prices for crude oil and other raw materials on a yearly basis, led to a decrease in earnings. In addition, the Company incurred 314 billion yen as expenses associated with impairment losses of fixed assets, 53 billion yen as restructuring charges and 92 billion yen as a write-down of investment securities. As a result of these and other factors, the Company incurred a pre-tax loss of 383 billion yen and a net loss attributable to Panasonic Corporation of 379 billion yen.

 

In fiscal 2008, net sales amounted to 9,069 billion yen, mostlyapproximately the same level fromas the previous year. In real terms, exceptexcluding JVC (Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. and its subsidiaries), the Company cited sales gains in all segments, due mainly to favorable sales in digital AV products and white goods. Regarding earnings, despite the effects fromof rising prices for crude oil and other raw materials, and ever-intensified global price competition, sales gains excluding the effect of JVC and the cost reduction efforts including materials costs and fixed costs led to the earnings gains. In addition, the Company incurred 33 billion yen as expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs and 32 billion yen as impairment losses on the investments, as well as 45 billion yen as impairment losses from tangible fixed assets. Reflecting all these factors and a decrease in provision for income taxes, the Company recorded a net income attributable to Panasonic Corporation of 282 billion yen, up 30% from the previous year.

In fiscal 2007, net sales increased 2% to 9,108 billion yen, due mainly to an increase in sales of digital products such as flat-panel TVs in Japan and overseas. Regarding earnings, despite the effects from rising raw materials prices and ever-intensified global price competition, an increase in sales, cost rationalization and a weaker yen contributed to earnings gains. In addition, the Company recorded gains on the sale of the investments regarding cable broadcasting business and gains on sales of tangible fixed assets, and incurred restructuring expenses, including 14 billion yen associated with the implementation of early retirement programs, and 49 billion yen as impairment losses. Accordingly, the Company recorded a net income of 217 billion yen.


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Key performance indicators

 

The following are performance measures that Panasonic believes are key indicators of its business results for the last three fiscal years.

 

  Yen (billions) (%)

   Yen (billions) (%)

 
  Fiscal year ended March 31,

   Fiscal year ended March 31,

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Net sales

  7,766   9,069   9,108    7,418   7,766   9,069  

Income (loss) before income taxes to net sales ratio

  (4.9)%  4.8 4.8  (0.4)%  (4.9)%  4.8

Research and development costs to net sales ratio

  6.7 6.1 6.3  6.4 6.7 6.1

Total assets

  6,403   7,444   7,897    8,358   6,403   7,444  

Stockholders’ equity

  2,784   3,742   3,917  

Stockholders’ equity to total assets ratio

  43.5 50.3 49.6

Total Panasonic Corporation shareholders’ equity

  2,792   2,784   3,742  

Total Panasonic Corporation shareholders’ equity to total assets ratio

  33.4 43.5 50.3

Return on equity

  (11.8)%  7.4 5.6  (3.7)%  (11.8)%  7.4

Capital investment

  494   449   418    385   494   449  

Free cash flow

  (353 405   (35  199   (353 405  

 

Note: Return on equity is calculated by dividing net income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation by the average of stock holders’shareholders’ equity at the beginning and the end of each fiscal year.

SANYO and its subsidiaries became the Company’s consolidated subsidiaries in December 2009 through a tender offer. After deducting the Company’s investment in SANYO of 404 billion yen from the total assets acquired of 2,450 billion yen, the total assets in December 2009 increased by 2,046 billion yen.

 

Panasonic defines “Capital investment” as purchases of property, plant and equipment (PP&E) on an accrual basis which reflects the effects of timing differences between acquisition dates and payment dates. Panasonic has included the information concerning capital investment because its management uses this indicator to manage its capital expenditures and it believes that suchthis indicator is useful for presenting to investors to present accrual basis capital investments in additionas supplementing information to the cash basis information in the consolidated statements of cash flows.

 

Panasonic’s management also believes that this indicator provides useful information when it is compared with depreciation expenses, which are shown in Note 1516 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements, for purposes of evaluating the replacement of PP&E. This indicator is, however, subject to the limitation that capital investments may not produce future returns (because current expenditures may not provide an efficient use of capital) and may also be subject to impairment. Also, this indicator is subject to the limitation that it may not represent the true cost of maintaining the Company’s portfolio of PP&E as it excludes expenditures for repairs and maintenance, operating leases, and intangible assets that may be integral to the use of PP&E. Panasonic compensates for these limitations by referring to this indicator together with relevant U.S. GAAP financial measures, such as capital expenditures, depreciation and amortization, shown in its consolidated statements of cash flows, to present an accurate and complete picture for purposes of capital expenditure analysis.

 

The following table shows a reconciliation of capital investment to purchases of property, plant and equipment:

 

  Yen (billions)

  Yen (billions)

  Fiscal year ended March 31,

  Fiscal year ended March 31,

  2009

 2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

 2008

Purchases of property, plant and equipment shown as capital expenditures in the consolidated statements of cash flows

  522   419  411  376  522   419

Effects of timing difference between acquisition dates and payment dates

  (28 30  7  9  (28 30
  

 
  
  
  

 

Capital investment

  494   449  418  385  494   449
  

 
  
  
  

 


- 3031 -

 

Panasonic defines “Free cash flow” as the sum of net cash provided by operating activities and net cash provided by investing activities. Panasonic has included the information concerning free cash flow because its management uses this indicator, and it believes that such indicator is useful to investors, to assess its cash availability after financing of its capital projects.

 

Panasonic’s management also believes that this indicator is useful in understanding Panasonic’s current liquidity and financing needs in light of its operating and investing activities, i.e., its ability to pay down and draw on available cash. It should be noted, however, that free cash flow Panasonic reports may not be comparable to free cash flow reported by other companies. It should also be noted that free cash flow should not be viewed in a manner that inappropriately implies that it represents the residual cash flow available for discretionary uses, since at any given time Panasonic may be subject to mandatory debt service requirements and may have other non-discretionary expenditures that are not deducted from this indicator. Panasonic compensates for these limitations by referring to this indicator together with relevant U.S. GAAP financial measures shown in its consolidated statements of cash flows and consolidated balance sheets, to present an accurate and complete picture for purposes of cash availability analysis.

 

The following table shows a reconciliation of free cash flow to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

  Yen (billions)

   Yen (billions)

 
  Fiscal year ended March 31,

   Fiscal year ended March 31,

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

  117   466   533    522   117   466  

Net cash used in investing activities

  (470 (61 (568  (323 (470 (61
  

 

 

  

 

 

Free cash flow

  (353 405   (35  199   (353 405  
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

Details of Panasonic’s consolidated sales and earnings results were as follows:

Year ended March 31, 2010 compared with 2009

(1)Sales

Consolidated group sales for fiscal 2010 amounted to 7,418 billion yen, down 4% from 7,766 billion yen in the previous fiscal year. Explaining fiscal 2010 results, the Company posted sales declines in all business segments. (For further details, see “(11) Results of Operations by Business Segments” of this section.)

In fiscal 2010, as the final year of its GP3 Plan, the Company simultaneously rebuilt its management structure, and took action for future growth. Specifically, Panasonic drastically reformed its business structure to rebuild its management structure. In addition, the Company pursued penetration and internalization of “Itakona,” acceleration of procurement cost reductions, reinforcement of comprehensive cost reduction efforts, and capital investment and inventory reductions. Meanwhile, to prepare for future growth, the Company developed its unique products with the following concepts as a cornerstone: “super link,” “super energy saving” and “thorough universal design.” Besides this, the Company globally developed its home appliances business, including launching refrigerators and drum-type washing machines in Europe; targeting emerging markets through local-oriented manufacturing; commercializing full high-definition (HD) 3D TVs that are expected to open a new era in television; and strengthening global systems and equipment businesses. These actions drove the Panasonic Group to new growth.

(2)Cost of Sales and Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

In fiscal 2010, cost of sales amounted to 5,341 billion yen, down from the previous year, and selling, general and administrative expenses amounted to 1,886 billion yen, down from the previous year. These results are due mainly to the effects of sharp sales declines.


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(3)Interest Income, Dividends Received and Other Income

In fiscal 2010, interest income decreased 47% to 12 billion yen due mainly to decrease in invested funds, and dividends received decreased 41% to 7 billion yen and other income decreased 9% to 48 billion yen.

(4)Interest Expense and Other Deductions

Interest expense increased 33% to 26 billion yen. In other deductions, the Company incurred 79 billion yen as expenses associated with impairment losses of fixed assets, 39 billion yen as expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement program and 7 billion yen as a write-down of investment securities. (For further details, see Notes 4, 5, 7, and 15 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(5)Income (loss) before Income Taxes

As a result of the above-mentioned factors, income (loss) before income taxes for fiscal 2010 amounted to a loss of 29 billion yen, compared with a loss of 383 billion yen in fiscal 2009.

(6)Provision for Income Taxes

Provision for income taxes for fiscal 2010 amounted to 142 billion yen, a significant increase compared with 37 billion yen in the previous year. This result was due primarily to the fact that the Company increased the valuation allowances to deferred tax assets. (For further details, see Notes 11 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(7)Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Associated Companies

In fiscal 2010, equity in earnings of associated companies decreased to gains of 0.5 billion yen due to declining profitability of certain equity method investees, from the previous year’s gains of 16 billion yen.

(8)Net Income (Loss)

Net income amounted to a loss of 171 billion yen for fiscal 2010, compared with a net loss of 404 billion yen in fiscal 2009.

(9)Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests amounted to a loss of 67 billion yen for fiscal 2010, compared with net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests of 25 billion yen in fiscal 2009. This result was due mainly to IPS Alpha Technology, Ltd.

(10)Net Income (Loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation

As a result of all the factors stated in the preceding paragraphs, the Company recorded a net loss attributable to Panasonic Corporation of 103 billion yen for fiscal 2010, an improvement of 276 billion yen from the previous year’s net loss attributable to Panasonic Corporation of 379 billion yen.


- 33 -

(11)Results of Operations by Business Segment

Results of operations by business segment for fiscal 2010, as compared with the previous fiscal year, were as follows:

   Yen (billions)

    
   2010

  2009

  Percent change

 

Sales:

          

Digital AVC Networks

  3,410   3,749   (9)% 

Home Appliances

  1,142   1,223   (7

PEW and PanaHome

  1,632   1,766   (8

Components and Devices

  1,005   1,127   (11

SANYO

  405   —     —    

Other

  1,012   1,072   (6

Eliminations

  (1,188 (1,171 —    
   

 

 

Total

  7,418   7,766   (4)% 
   

 

 

Segment profit (loss):

          

Digital AVC Networks

  87   3   2648

Home Appliances

  67   49   36  

PEW and PanaHome

  35   40   (13

Components and Devices

  36   7   408  

SANYO

  (1 —     —    

Other

  20   24   (18

Corporate and eliminations

  (54 (50 —    
   

 

 

Total

  190   73   161
   

 

 

*SANYO and its subsidiaries became Panasonic’s consolidated subsidiaries in December 2009, and are disclosed as “SANYO” segment. The operating results of SANYO and its subsidiaries after January 2010 are included in the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

Digital AVC Networks sales decreased 9% to 3,410 billion yen, compared with 3,749 billion yen in the previous year. Within this segment, although domestic sales of flat-panel TVs and automotive electronics and Blu-ray Disc recorders were favorable, overall sales declined due mainly to a sales decline of notebook PCs and mobile phones. Regarding digital cameras, although market conditions were tough, both high-end and standard models were favorable and the sales remained unchanged from the previous year.

With respect to this segment, despite the sales decline, operating profit significantly improved to 87 billion yen, or 2.6% of sales, from 3 billion yen in fiscal 2009. This was due mainly to comprehensive streamlining efforts.

Sales of Home Appliances decreased 7% to 1,142 billion yen, compared with 1,223 billion yen in the previous year. Within Home Appliances, despite strong sales of refrigerators, the overall sales decreased due mainly to weak sales of air conditioners and compressors.

Profit in this segment increased 36% from 49 billion yen in fiscal 2009, to 67 billion yen for fiscal 2010, or 5.8% of sales. Comprehensive streamlining efforts offset the negative impact of sales decline and led the operating profit increase in this segment.

Sales of PEW and PanaHome decreased 8% to 1,632 billion yen, compared with 1,766 billion yen a year ago. At PEW and its subsidiaries, sales mainly decreased in electrical construction materials and building materials. For PanaHome Corporation and its subsidiaries, ongoing sluggishness in the Japanese housing market conditions led to sales decrease.

With respect to this segment, Operating profit was 35 billion yen, or 2.1% of sales, down 13% from 40 billion yen in fiscal 2009, due mainly to a decline in sales.

Sales of Components and Devices decreased 11% to 1,005 billion yen, from the previous year’s 1,127 billion yen, due mainly to sales downturns in batteries and semiconductors.

With respect to this segment, profit increased 408% from 7 billion yen in fiscal 2009, to 36 billion yen for fiscal 2010, or 3.6% of sales, due mainly to fixed cost reductions.

Sales in SANYO segment amounted to 405 billion yen. In the period from January to March 2010, sales of solar cells were strong helped by economic stimulus programs and environment policies in several countries.


- 34 -

With respect to this segment, profit resulted in a loss of 0.7 billion yen, incurring the expenses such as amortization of intangible asset recorded at acquisition.

Sales in the Other segment amounted to 1,012 billion yen, down 6% from 1,072 billion yen in the previous year, due mainly to weak sales in factory automation equipment.

With respect to this segment, profit was down 18% from 24 billion yen for fiscal 2010, to 20 billion yen, which were equivalent to 1.9% against sales in fiscal 2010. This result was due mainly to sales declines as a result of the aforementioned sales declines.

(12)Sales Results by Region

Sales results by region for fiscal 2010, as compared with the previous fiscal year, were as follows:

   Yen (billions)

  Percent change

 
   2010

  2009

  

Domestic Sales:

  3,994  4,082  (2)% 

Overseas Sales:

          

North and South America

  918  997  (8

Europe

  771  963  (20

Asia and Others

  1,735  1,724  1  
   
  
  

Total

  3,424  3,684  (7
   
  
  

Total

  7,418  7,766  (4)% 
   
  
  

Sales in the domestic market amounted to 3,994 billion yen, down 2% from 4,082 billion yen in fiscal 2009, although sales gains were recorded in flat-panel TVs and refrigerators due to the positive effect of “eco-point” economic stimulus program. This sales decline was due mainly to a sales decrease in mobile phones, semiconductors and batteries.

Overseas sales amounted to 3,424 billion yen, down 7% from 3,684 billion yen in the previous fiscal year. Sales declined in all segments, and there were sharp sales declines particularly in AV products such as flat-panel TVs, automotive electronics.

By region, sales in the Americas amounted to 918 billion, down 8% from 997 billion yen in fiscal 2010. This was due mainly to sales declines in information and communications equipments and home appliances, and the effect of exchange rate, although sales in AV products such as flat-panel TVs and digital cameras were favorable.

Sales in Europe amounted to 771 billion yen, down 20% from the previous year’s 963 billion yen, suffered from weak economic demand in eastern Europe and Russia. This was due mainly to a sales decrease of automotive electronics and home appliances, although sales of digital AV products such as flat-panel TVs and digital cameras were favorable.

In the Asia and Others region, sales increased 1% to 1,735 billion yen, from the previous year’s 1,724 billion yen. In Asia, this was due mainly to an increase in sales of many products, including flat-panel TVs, air conditioners and washing machines, thanks to strong market conditions.


- 35 -

 

Year ended March 31, 2009 compared with 2008

 

(1)Sales

 

Consolidated group sales for fiscal 2009 amounted to 7,766 billion yen, down 14% from 9,069 billion yen in the previous fiscal year. Explaining fiscal 2009 results, the Company cited sales declines in all business segments. (For further details, see “(10)“(11) Results of Operations by Business Segments” of this section.)

 

In fiscal 2009, the second year of the mid-term management plan GP3, Panasonic steadily implemented initiatives focused on four major themes: double-digit growth for overseas sales, four strategic businesses, manufacturing innovation and the eco ideas strategy. To achieve double-digit growth in overseas sales, the Company widened its target from affluent customers to upper-income customers in the strategic market regions of BRICs countries and Vietnam. With regard to the second theme, four strategic businesses—digital AV business, businesses providing comfortable living, semiconductors/components and devices business, and automotive electronics business—Panasonic launched various cross-group projects, established new strategies and implemented initiatives to expand sales in each business. As for manufacturing innovation, in addition to proactively promoting “Itakona” activities, which seek to standardize cost-reduction processes on a finer level, the Company established the New Business Promotion Subcommittee in April 2009 to strengthen cost-reduction activities. In terms of the eco ideas strategy, the Company made steady progress in reducing CO2 emissions.

 

Despite these measures, the Company’s performance differed markedly between the first and second half of fiscal 2009, due to a sharp deterioration in the business environment from September 2008, when the global financial crisis caused a rapid downturn in global demand and a sharp appreciation of the yen. In response to these business conditions, the Company accelerated business restructuring initiatives based on a policy of selection and concentration. These included integration and closure of manufacturing sites, from the view point of global optimal production, withdrawing from unprofitable businesses, and reassigning and downsizing of workforce. As a result of these and other factors, consolidated group sales for the period under review decreased compared with the previous year.


- 31 -

 

(2)Cost of Sales and Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

In fiscal 2009, cost of sales amounted to 5,667 billion yen, down from the previous year, and selling, general and administrative expenses amounted to 2,025 billion yen, down from the previous year. These results are due mainly to the effects of sharp sales declines.

 

(3)Interest Income, Dividends Received and Other Income

 

In fiscal 2009, interest income decreased 32% to 23 billion yen, and dividends received increased 11% to 11 billion yen. In other income, in addition to gains on sales of tangible fixed assets, the Company recorded 16 billion yen gain on the sale of the investment securities.

 

(4)Interest Expense Goodwill Impairment and Other Deductions

 

Interest expense decreased 5% to 19 billion yen, owing primarily to a reduction in short-term borrowings. In other deductions, the Company incurred 314 billion yen as expenses associated with impairment losses of fixed assets, 53 billion yen as restructuring charges and 92 billion yen as a write-down of investment securities.(For (For further details, see Notes 3, 4, 6,5, 7, and 1415 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

(5)Income (loss)(Loss) before Income Taxes

 

As a result of the above-mentioned factors, income (loss) before income taxes for fiscal 2009 amounted to a loss of 383 billion yen, compared with a profit of 435 billion yen in fiscal 2008.

 

(6)Provision for Income Taxes

 

Provision for income taxes for fiscal 2009 amounted to 37 billion yen, a significant decrease compared with 115 billion yen in the previous year. This result was due primarily to the fact that the Company increased the valuation allowances to deferred tax assets as a result of incurring the aforementioned impairment losses of fixed assets and restructuring charges. (For further details, see Notes 1011 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)


- 36 -

 

(7)Minority Interests

Minority interests amounted to a loss of 25 billion yen for fiscal 2009, compared with minority interests of 29 billion yen in fiscal 2008. This result was due mainly to decreased profits in Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. for the period and the consolidation of IPS Alpha Technology, Ltd.

(8)Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Associated Companies

 

In fiscal 2009, equity in earnings of associated companies amounted to gains of 16 billion yen, from the previous year’s losses of 10 billion yen. This result is due mainly to the consolidation of IPS Alpha Technology Ltd. and the improvement of earnings in its associated companies under the equity method in China.

 

(8)Net Income (Loss)

As a result of all the factors stated in the preceding paragraphs, the Company recorded a net loss of 404 billion yen for fiscal 2009, a decrease of 715 billion yen from the previous year’s net income of 311 billion yen.

(9)Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests amounted to a loss of 25 billion yen for fiscal 2009, compared with minority interests of 29 billion yen in fiscal 2008. This result was due mainly to decreased profits in Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. for the period and the consolidation of IPS Alpha Technology, Ltd.

(10)Net Income (Loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation

 

As a result of all the factors stated in the preceding paragraphs, the Company recorded a net loss of 379 billion yen for fiscal 2009, a decrease of 661 billion yen from the previous year’s net income of 282 billion yen.


- 32 -

 

(10)(11)Results of Operations by Business Segment

 

Results of operations by business segment for fiscal 2009, as compared with the previous fiscal year, were as follows:

 

   Yen (billions)

    
   2009

  2008

  Percent change

 

Sales:

          

Digital AVC Networks

  3,749   4,320   (13)% 

Home Appliances

  1,223   1,316   (7

PEW and PanaHome

  1,766   1,910   (8

Components and Devices

  1,127   1,399   (19

Other

  1,072   1,084   (1

JVC

  —     183   —    

Eliminations

  (1,171 (1,143 —    
   

 

 

Total

  7,766   9,069   (14)% 
   

 

 

Segment profit:

          

Digital AVC Networks

  3   252   (99)% 

Home Appliances

  49   87   (43

PEW and PanaHome

  40   96   (58

Components and Devices

  7   105   (93

Other

  24   64   (63

JVC

  —     (10 —    

Corporate and eliminations

  (50 (75 —    
   

 

 

Total

  73   519   (86)% 
   

 

 

 *The Company has changed the internal business transaction between Global Procurement Service Company and other segments since April 1, 2008. Accordingly, segment information for Other and Corporate and eliminations of fiscal 2008 has been reclassified to conform to the presentation for fiscal 2009.
 *The name of “AVC Networks” was changed to “Digital AVC Networks” from fiscal 2009.
 *The name of “MEW and PanaHome” was changed to “PEW and PanaHome” as of October 1, 2008.


- 37 -

 

Digital AVC Networks sales decreased 13% to 3,749 billion yen, compared with 4,320 billion yen in the previous year. Within this segment, sales of video and audio equipment decreased, due mainly to weak sales of digital AV products, such as plasma TVs and digital cameras. Regarding flat-panel TVs, although sales of plasma TVs were lower than the previous year, LCD TVs recorded a double-digit increase in sales from the previous year, mainly as a result of expanding its product line-ups. Regarding digital cameras, although the world’s smallest and lightest digital interchangeable lens cameras and products incorporating face recognition, an evolution from “face detection,” won market acclaim, weak demand particularly overseas led to a decrease in sales. Meanwhile, sales of information and communications equipment also decreased as a result of sluggish sales of automotive electronics and other products. This result was due mainly to further price erosion of car navigation system caused by the growing market share of low-priced Portable Navigation Devices (PND) in the domestic market, and sluggish sales of mobile phones due to a change in handsets sales incentives and economic downturn in Japan.

 

With respect to this segment, profit decreased 99% from 252 billion yen in fiscal 2008, to 3 billion yen for fiscal 2009, which is equivalent to 0.1% against sales. This decrease was attributable mainly to a decrease in sales as a result of a rapidly deteriorated market conditions, the negative effects of the appreciation of the yen and the effects of price declines. These factors led to a significant decrease in profit in this segment.

 

Sales of Home Appliances decreased 7% to 1,223 billion yen, compared with 1,316 billion yen in the previous year. Within Home Appliances, although induction-heating (IH) cooking equipment, “Eco Cute” natural-refrigerant water heating systems and other products for all-electric homes recorded strong sales, weak sales of air conditioners and compressors resulted in an overall sales decrease.


- 33 -

 

Profit in this segment decreased 43% from 87 billion yen in fiscal 2008, to 49 billion yen for fiscal 2009, or 4.0% of sales. Although there were the positive effects of various cost rationalization activities, a decrease in sales, the effects of price declines and rising costs for raw materials led to decreased earnings in this segment.

 

Sales of PEW and PanaHome decreased 8% to 1,766 billion yen, compared with 1,910 billion yen a year ago. At PEW and its subsidiaries, sluggish sales of electronic materials, automation controls and health-enhancing products led to a decrease in sales from the previous year. At PanaHome Corporation and its subsidiaries, a rapid deterioration sluggish housing market conditions after September 2008 led to a decrease in sales.

 

With respect to this segment, profit decreased 58% to 40 billion yen, which is equal to 2.3% of sales, from 96 billion yen in the previous year, as a result of the aforementioned decrease in sales and the effects of price declines.

 

Sales of Components and Devices decreased 19% to 1,127 billion yen, from the previous year’s 1,399 billion yen, mainly as a result of sluggish sales in semiconductors and general electronic components. In general electronic components, Panasonic maintained its leading global market share in angular rate sensors for car navigation systems and digital cameras. In addition, sales of power supplies for plasma TVs were relatively steady. However, sales of capacitors, electromechanical components and other products dropped sharply due to deteriorated market conditions and inventory cutbacks at finished product manufacturers. In the semiconductor business, sales fell as demand slowed for semiconductors for digital equipment. In batteries, weak sales of such products as alkaline dry batteries and car batteries led to an overall decrease in sales.

 

With respect to this segment, profit decreased 93% from 105 billion yen in fiscal 2008, to 7 billion yen for fiscal 2009, or 0.6% of sales. Although there were positive effects of cost rationalization, decreased sales and price declines resulted in decreased earnings in this segment.

 

Sales in the Other segment amounted to 1,072 billion yen, down 1% from 1,084 billion yen in the previous year. Although the Company expanded product line-ups of high-speed modular placement machines, sluggish sales of factory automation equipment as a result of sharply deteriorated market conditions led to a decrease in sales in this category.

 

With respect to this segment, profit was down 63% from 64 billion yen for fiscal 2008, to 24 billion yen, which were equivalent to 2.2% against sales in fiscal 2009. This result was due mainly to sales declines as a result of the aforementioned sales declines.


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(11)(12)Sales Results by Region

 

Sales results by region for fiscal 2009, as compared with the previous fiscal year, were as follows:

 

   Yen (billions)

    
   2009

  2008

  Percent change

 

Domestic Sales:

  4,082  4,545  (10)% 

Overseas Sales:

          

North and South America

  997  1,251  (20

Europe

  963  1,213  (21

Asia and Others

  1,724  2,060  (16
   
  
  

Total

  3,684  4,524  (19
   
  
  

Total

  7,766  9,069  (14)% 
   
  
  

 

Sales in Japan amounted to 4,082 billion yen, down 10% from 4,545 billion yen in fiscal 2008. Sales declined in all segments, and there were sharp sales declines particularly in automotive electronics equipment, mobile phones, semiconductors, general components and devices, and FA equipment.

 

Overseas sales amounted to 3,684 billion yen, down 19% from 4,524 billion yen in the previous fiscal year. Sales declined in all segments, and there were sharp sales declines particularly in business-use AV equipment, automotive electronics, PCs and peripherals, semiconductors, and general components and devices.


- 34 -

 

By region, sales in the Americas amounted to 997 billion, down 20% from 1,251 billion yen in fiscal 2008. Sales downturns in digital AV equipment, broadcast- and business-use AV equipment, automotive electronics, general components and other products led to decreased sales from the previous year for this region.

 

Sales in Europe amounted to 963 billion yen, down 21% from the previous year’s 1,213 billion yen. Sales for this region decreased, due mainly to weak sales in digital cameras, automotive electronics, white goods, general components and batteries.

 

In the Asia and Others region, sales decreased 16% to 1,724 billion yen, from the previous year’s 2,060 billion yen. In Asia (excluding China), sales decreased in PCs and peripherals, automotive electronics, compressors, as well as semiconductors and general components, resulting in overall sales declines. Meanwhile, in China, sales decreased mainly in PCs and peripherals, air-conditioners, compressors, and general components, resulting in overall decreased sales.

 

Year ended March 31, 2008 compared with 2007

(1)Sales

Consolidated group sales for fiscal 2008 amounted to 9,069 billion yen, mostly the same level from 9,108 billion yen in the previous fiscal year. Explaining fiscal 2008 results, the Company cited sales gains in all business segments except JVC (Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. and its subsidiaries), due mainly to favorable sales in digital AV products and white goods. (For further details, see “(10) Results of Operations by Business Segments” of this section.) The electronics industry in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2008 faced severe business conditions in Japan and overseas, due mainly to ever-rising prices for crude oil and other raw materials, and continued price declines caused by continuously intensifying global competition, mainly in digital products. Under these circumstances, the Panasonic Group worked to accelerate growth strategies in fiscal 2008, the first year of the new three-year mid-term management plan GP3. Specifically, Panasonic continued to strengthen V-products, which are the core of its growth strategies and make a significant contribution to overall business results in order to boost market shares. With regard to the strategic plasma display panel (PDP) business, Panasonic started operation of its fourth domestic PDP plant in June 2007, and began construction of its fifth in November 2007. In addition, Panasonic implemented initiatives to achieve double-digit growth in overseas sales of consumer products. To accelerate growth in emerging markets as well as the U.S. and Europe, the Company established a framework to boost sales in Russia, Brazil and India, and also promoted its cutting-edge products. These initiatives contributed to an increase in sales, as mentioned above.

Domestic sales amounted to 4,545 billion yen, down 2% from 4,617 billion yen a year ago. Although favorable sales were recorded mainly in digital AV products as a result of a significant contribution of V-products, this result is due primarily to the effects of JVC as mentioned above. Overseas sales increased 1% to 4,524 billion yen, from 4,492 billion yen in fiscal 2007, ended March 31, 2007. Despite the effects of JVC, favorable sales in all business segments except JVC led to an increase in overseas sales.

(2)Cost of Sales and Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

In fiscal 2008, cost of sales amounted to 6,377 billion yen, mostly the same level from the previous year, while net sales remained the same level. Negative effects such as rising prices for raw materials were offset mainly as a result of the rationalization of materials costs. Selling, general and administrative expenses were down 4% to 2,172 billion yen compared to the previous year, due mainly to comprehensive cost reduction efforts.

(3)Interest Income, Dividends Received and Other Income

In fiscal 2008, interest income increased 12% to 34 billion yen, and dividends received increased 36% to 10 billion yen. In other income, in addition to gains on sales of tangible fixed assets, the Company recorded 15 billion yen gain on the sale of the investments.


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(4)Interest Expense, Goodwill Impairment and Other Deductions

Interest expense decreased 3% to 20 billion yen, owing primarily to a reduction in short-term borrowings. In other deductions, compared with 20 billion yen of restructuring charges in fiscal 2007, the Company incurred 40 billion yen including 33 billion yen as expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs, 32 billion yen as write-down of investment securities, and 45 billion yen as other impairment losses on long-lived assets related to fixed assets, compared with the previous year’s 49 billion yen including 19 billion yen as other impairment losses on long-lived assets and a loss of 30 billion yen as goodwill impairment. (For further details, see Notes 3, 4, 6, 7, and 14 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(5)Income before Income Taxes

As a result of the above-mentioned factors, income before income taxes for fiscal 2008 decreased 1% to 435 billion yen, compared with 439 billion yen in fiscal 2007, while the ratio to net sales were 4.8%, the same level from the previous year.

(6)Provision for Income Taxes

Provision for income taxes for fiscal 2008 amounted to 115 billion yen, a significant improvement compared with 192 billion yen in the previous year. The effective tax rate to income before income taxes declined to 26.3%, down 17.4% from 43.7% a year ago. This improvement was due mainly to a strategic merger of domestic device businesses in order to reinforce manufacturing competitiveness such as strengthening of cost competitiveness by seeking streamlining and efficiency of operations which consequently resulted in the utilization of net operating loss carryforwards to which a deferred tax asset valuation allowance was provided for in previous years, an improvement in general profitability of certain subsidiaries which resulted in the reversal of a portion of deferred tax valuation allowance as improvement in future profitability is projected to allow for the utilization of net operating carryforwards in these subsidiaries, and a decrease in tax expenses associated with tax benefits generated through certain business reorganizations. This decrease in the effective rate is a non-recurring event. (For further details, see Notes 10 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

(7)Minority Interests

Minority interests amounted to 29 billion yen for fiscal 2008, compared with minority interests of 31 billion yen in fiscal 2007. This result was due mainly to decreased profits in Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. and its subsidiaries for the period when these companies were consolidated subsidiaries of Panasonic.

(8)Equity in Losses of Associated Companies

In fiscal 2008, equity in earnings of associated companies amounted to losses of 10 billion yen, from the previous year’s gains of 1 billion yen. This result is due mainly to losses in Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. and its subsidiaries which became associated companies under the equity method in August 2007, and lower profit in a joint-venture of LCD panels with Toshiba.

(9)Net Income

As a result of all the factors stated in the preceding paragraphs, the Company recorded a net income of 282 billion yen for fiscal 2008, an increase of 30% from 217 billion yen in the previous year.


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(10)Results of Operations by Business Segment

Results of operations by business segment for fiscal 2008, as compared with the previous fiscal year, were as follows:

   Yen (billions)

  
 
   2008

  2007

  Percent change

 

Sales:

          

Digital AVC Networks

  4,320  4,064  6%

Home Appliances

  1,316  1,247  6 

PEW and PanaHome

  1,910  1,859  3 

Components and Devices

  1,399  1,378  2 

Other

  1,084  998  9 

JVC

  183  646  (72)

Eliminations

  (1,143) (1,084) —   
   

 

 

Total

  9,069  9,108  0%
   

 

 

Segment profit:

          

Digital AVC Networks

  252  220  15%

Home Appliances

  87  83  4 

PEW and PanaHome

  96  79  22 

Components and Devices

  105  100  5 

Other

  64  61  6 

JVC

  (10) (6) —   

Corporate and eliminations

  (75) (77) —   
   

 

 

Total

  519  460  13%
   

 

 

*From fiscal 2009, the name of “AVC Networks” was changed to “Digital AVC Networks.”
*The name of “MEW and PanaHome” was changed to “PEW and PanaHome” as of October 1, 2008.
*The Company has changed the transactions between Global Procurement Service Company and other segments since April 1, 2008. Accordingly, segment information for Other and eliminations for fiscal 2008 have been reclassified to conform to the presentation for fiscal 2009.
*The healthcare business was transferred to Panasonic Shikoku Electronics Co., Ltd. on April 1, 2007. Accordingly, the segment information for fiscal 2007 has been reclassified to confirm with the presentation for the year ended March 31, 2008.
*JVC became an associated company under the equity method from a consolidated subsidiary in the fiscal 2008 second quarter.

Digital AVC Networks sales increased 6% to 4,320 billion yen, compared with 4,064 billion yen in the previous year. Within this segment, sales of video and audio equipment increased, due mainly to strong sales of digital AV products, such as flat-panel TVs and digital cameras. Regarding TVs, the VIERA series recorded a significant increase in sales from the previous year, due primarily to expanding demand for large-sized, full high-definition (HD) models amid the global progress of digital broadcasting. Sales of LUMIX series of digital cameras significantly increased, due mainly to strong sales of new models that feature an automatic iA (Intelligent Auto) mode, which include functions such as a “face detection” system that automatically chooses settings optimal for each condition. Meanwhile, sales of information and communications equipment also increased as a result of favorable sales of automotive electronics and mobile phones. Sales of automotive electronics such as car AV and the Strada series of car navigation systems remained strong, and sales of mobile phones significantly increased due mainly to strong demand for models with high-resolution screens for watching “One Segment” broadcasting.

With respect to this segment, profit improved 15% from 220 billion yen in fiscal 2007, to 252 billion yen for fiscal 2008, which is equivalent to 5.8% against sales. This increase was attributable mainly to expanded sales in flat-panel TVs, digital cameras, automotive electronics equipment and mobile phones, as well as cost rationalization effects. Particularly in plasma TVs, despite price declines under ever-intensified global competition, the Company expanded lineups of full HD models and comprehensive cost reduction efforts including curbing materials costs. These factors, as well as a significant improvement of profitability in mobile phones, led to double-digit profit growth in this segment.


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Sales of Home Appliances increased 6% to 1,316 billion yen, compared with 1,247 billion yen in the previous year. Within Home Appliances, sales gains were recorded mainly in air conditioners and refrigerators, as a result of strong sales in high value-added products that leverage Panasonic’s proprietary technologies. These products include air conditioners that automatically adjust air flows depending on people’s feeling of temperature and refrigerators featuring “nano-e crispers” that keep vegetables and other cold-sensitive foods fresh with nano-e technology.

Profit in this segment rose 4% from 83 billion yen in fiscal 2007, to 87 billion yen for fiscal 2008, or 6.6% of sales. Despite the adverse effects from rising costs for raw materials including plastic materials, double-digit growth in overseas sales in air conditioners, washing machines and refrigerators as a result of a successful introduction of aforementioned unique products, as well as the effects of various cost rationalization activities, led to increased earnings in this segment.

Sales of PEW and PanaHome increased 3% to 1,910 billion yen, compared with 1,859 billion yen a year ago. Despite weak sales of building products as a result of a decrease in new residential construction, sales at PEW and its subsidiaries increased from the previous year. This result is due primarily to favorable sales in electrical construction materials such as home fire alarms and high energy-efficient lighting fixtures, and electronic and plastic materials such as semiconductor encapsulation materials. At PanaHome Corporation and its subsidiaries, sluggish housing market conditions led to a slight decrease in sales.

With respect to this segment, despite the adverse effects of rising prices for raw materials including coppers and nickels, profit increased 22% to 96 billion yen, which is equal to 5.0% of sales, from 79 billion yen in the previous year, as a result of the aforementioned sales gains in electrical construction materials and electronic and plastic materials, and the comprehensive cost rationalizations including a decrease of direct material costs and fixed costs.

Sales of Components and Devices increased 2% to 1,399 billion yen, from the previous year’s 1,378 billion yen, mainly as a result of favorable sales in general electronic components, semiconductors, batteries. In general electronic components, sales gains were recorded due mainly to favorable sales in angular rate sensors used for increasing precision of car navigation systems and digital cameras, specialty polymer aluminum electrolytic capacitors that are compact and have a high noise reduction function, and light touch switches used for mobile phones. In semiconductors, in addition to favorable sales of image sensors for digital cameras, a significant sales increase was recorded in system LSIs primarily for digital AV equipment. In batteries, although sales of lithium-ion batteries were weak, due mainly to a voluntary replacement of NOKIA brand lithium-ion battery pack units and a decrease in production capacity by the damage from fires in Japan, favorable sales of alkaline dry batteries led to increased sales overall.

With respect to this segment, profit increased 5% from 100 billion yen in fiscal 2007, to 105 billion yen for fiscal 2008, or 7.5% of sales. Despite the negative effects from rising prices for raw materials including copper and aluminum, sales gains and cost rationalization efforts contributed to increased earnings in this segment. In particular, a significant profit growth was recorded in electronic components and devices, mainly as a result of strong sales in general electronic components for digital AV products and automotive electronics equipment.

Sales in the Other segment amounted to 1,084 billion yen, up 9% from the previous year. Sales gain was recorded in factory automation equipment by expanding lineups of high-speed modular placement machines and providing optimal solutions for its customers.

With respect to this segment, profit was up 6% from 61 billion yen for fiscal 2007, to 64 billion yen, which was equivalent to 5.9% of sales in fiscal 2008. Despite severe market conditions, this result was due mainly to sales gains and cost rationalization.

Sales of JVC were 183 billion yen, compared with 646 billion yen in the previous year. Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. and its subsidiaries became associated companies under the equity method from Panasonic’s consolidated subsidiaries in August 2007. Accordingly, JVC sales for the period from then on are not included in Panasonic’s consolidated results.

With respect to this segment, losses amounted to 10 billion yen, compared with losses of 6 billion yen in fiscal 2007.


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(11)Sales Results by Region

Sales results by region for fiscal 2008, as compared with the previous fiscal year, were as follows:

   Yen (billions)

    
   2008

  2007

  Percent change

 

Domestic Sales:

  4,545  4,616  (2)%

Overseas Sales:

          

North and South America

  1,251  1,381  (9)

Europe

  1,213  1,218  0 

Asia and Others

  2,060  1,893  9 
   
  
  

Total

  4,524  4,492  1 
   
  
  

Total

  9,069  9,108  0%
   
  
  

Sales in Japan amounted to 4,545 billion yen, down 2% from 4,616 billion yen in fiscal 2007. However, the Company cited sales gains in all business segments except JVC, including favorable sales of digital AV products and automotive electronics equipment.

Overseas sales were up 1%, to 4,524 billion yen, from 4,492 billion yen in the previous fiscal year. This result, despite the effects of JVC, is due mainly to favorable sales in digital AV products and white goods.

By region, sales in the Americas amounted to 1,251 billion, down 9% from 1,381 billion yen in fiscal 2007. Although sales of flat-panel TVs, digital cameras, PCs and video broadcasting systems were favorable, sales downturns in automotive electronics and batteries, as well as the effects of JVC, led to decreased sales from the previous year for this region.

Sales in Europe amounted to 1,213 billion yen, mostly the same level from the previous year’s 1,218 billion yen. Despite the effect of JVC, favorable sales in flat-panel TVs, digital cameras and automotive electronics led to this sales results for this region.

In the Asia and Others region, sales increased 9% to 2,060 billion yen, from the previous year’s 1,893 billion yen. In Asia (excluding China), strong sales were recorded in flat-panel TVs, digital cameras, air-conditioners and compressors, as well as semiconductors, resulting in overall sales gains. Meanwhile, in China, sales gains were recorded mainly in flat-panel TVs, air-conditioners, semiconductors and electronic components and devices, resulting in overall increased sales.

B.Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

Panasonic’s Policy on Financial Position and Liquidity

 

As itsPanasonic maintains a basic policy Panasonic has long placed emphasis on maintaining sound balance sheets, and on generating as much available funding as possibleof financing all required funds from internal sourcessources. It also practices efficient fund management through effortsinternal financing activities. In addition to raiseraising funds through borrowing as necessary, the operational efficiency or asset turnover ratios, soCompany in May 2009 expanded its commercial paper (CP) facility in Japan to 300 billion yen as not to overly rely on external fund raising.a method for flexibly raising short-term capital for working capital and other requirements. There was no CP outstanding at March 31, 2010. This conservativeness is exemplified in the tradition of maintaining the ratio of stockholders’shareholders’ equity to total assets at a relatively high level and keeping large cash balance. The ratio of stockholders’shareholders’ equity to total assets as of March 31, 20092010 was 43.5%33.4%, down from 50.3% in the previous year.43.5% as of March 31, 2009. The total of short-term borrowings and long-term debt amounted to 7461,328 billion yen as of March 31, 2009,2010, up by 357582 billion yen from a year ago. Cash balance decreasedincreased to 1,202 billion yen (the total of cash and cash equivalents of 1,110 billion yen plus time deposits with a maturity of more than three months of 92 billion yen) as of March 31, 2010, compared with the previous year’s 1,163 billion yen (the total of cash and cash equivalents of 974 billion yen plus time deposits with a maturity of more than three months of 189 billion yen) as of March 31, 2009, compared with the previous year’s 1,285 billion yen (the total of cash and cash equivalents of 1,215 billion yen plus time deposits of 70 billion yen).31. 2009.


- 39 -

Regarding future cash requirements, Panasonic will spend capital investment (excluding intangibles) of 480 billion yen for fiscal 2011, 300 billion yen for fiscal 2012 and 280 billion yen for fiscal 2013. The Company will decrease total cost of investment from fiscal 2011, but increase its investment ratio of energy systems.

 

In order to facilitate access to global capital markets, Panasonic obtains credit ratings from the world’s two leading credit rating agencies, Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (Moody’s) and Standard & Poor’s Rating Services (S&P). In addition, Panasonic maintains credit ratings from Rating and Investment Information, Inc. (R&I), a rating agency nationally recognized in Japan, primarily for access to the Japanese capital markets. As of March 31, 2009,2010, Panasonic’s debt ratings are: Moody’s: Aa3 (long-term) down from Aa2 (long-term), P-1 (short-term);on December 2009; S&P: AA-A+ (long-term, outlook: stable), down from AA- on December 2009, A-1 (short-term) down from A-1+ (short-term);on December 2009; and R&I: AA (long-term, outlook: stable) down from AA+ (long-term),on January 2010, a-1+ (short-term).

Within These downgrades in credit ratings were due mainly to downturn in business of the rating classification systemCompany under the severe conditions with the impact of R&I, “a-1” isglobal recession, as well as the highestnegative influence on the financial position of five categories for short-term debt and indicates “a strong degreethe Company by acquiring 50.2% of certainty regarding debt repayment,” with a plus (+) sign added to a rating in that category to indicate an especially high degreethe voting rights of certainty regarding debt repayment; and “AA” is the second highest of nine categories for long-term debt and indicates “a very high degree of certainty regarding debt repayment,” with a plus (+) or minus (-) sign added to a rating in that category to indicate its relative standing within that category.SANYO.

 

Panasonic believes that its credit ratings include the rating agencies’ assessment of the general operating environment, its positions in the markets in which it competes, reputation, movements and volatility in its earnings, risk management policies, liquidity and capital management. An adverse change in any of these factors could result in a reduction of Panasonic’s credit ratings, and that could, in turn, increase its borrowing costs and limit its access to the capital markets or require it to post additional collateral and permit counterparties to terminate transactions pursuant to certain contractual obligations.

 

With the above-mentioned cash balance, combined with the generally and relatively high credit ratings from leading credit rating agencies, Panasonic believes that it has sufficient sources of liquidity for eitherboth working capital orand long-term investment needs.

 

As of March 31, 2009,2010, the outstanding balance of short-term borrowings totaled 95299 billion yen, and long-term debt was 6511,029 billion yen. Panasonic’s borrowings are not significantly affected by seasonal factors. (For further details, see Note 89 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.) Most borrowings are at fixed rates.

In recent years, Panasonic has focused on raising capital efficiency upon review of its balance sheet. In fiscal 2007, to meet the needs of more sophisticated global operations, Panasonic established Panasonic Global Treasury Center B.V. in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, a new overseas financial subsidiary with in-house banking functions that facilitate various finance and foreign exchange transactions worldwide. Along with the establishment of the new company, Panasonic has implemented initiatives to further enhance the efficiency of group-wide treasury transactions by introducing a new round-the-clock treasury system.

 

Regarding cash flows, Panasonic uses free cash flow (see “Overview—Key performance indicators” in Section A of this Item 5) as an important indicator to evaluate its performance.

 

Regarding the use of financial instruments for hedging purposes, see Item 11.

 

Fiscal 20092010 Financial Position and Liquidity

 

The Company’s consolidated total assets as of the end of fiscal 2009 decreased2010 increased to 6,4038,358 billion yen, as compared with 7,4446,403 billion yen at the end of the last fiscal year. This resultincrease was due primarily to a decrease on trade receivablesthe effect of consolidating SANYO and a reduction of inventories affected by deteriorated market conditions, and a decrease in investments and advances affected by a decline of stock price.its subsidiaries.

 

The Company’s consolidated total liabilities as of March 31, 20092010 increased to 4,678 billion yen, as compared with 3,191 billion yen at the end of the last fiscal year. This increase was also due primarily to the effect of consolidating SANYO and its subsidiaries. (For further details, see Note 9 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

Panasonic Corporation shareholders’ equity as of March 31, 2010 amounted 3,1912,792 billion yen, mostly unchanged from the previous year. Although current liabilities decreased as a result of the repayment of short-term borrowings and current liabilities including trade payables, an increase in noncurrent liabilities including long-term debt led to this result. (For further details, see Note 8 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)year’s 2,784 billion yen.


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MinorityNoncontrolling interests decreased 86increased by 459 billion yen, to 429 billion yen.

Stockholders’ equity decreased 958 billion yen to 2,784 billion yen, from the previous year’s 3,742887 billion yen. This decreaseresult was due mainly to a decreasethe effect of 469 billion yen in retained earningsconsolidating SANYO and a decrease of 420 billion yen in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), which reflects a decrease in pension liability adjustments, decreases in cumulative translation adjustments due primarily to the appreciation of the yen and a decrease in unrealized holding gains of available-for-sale securities, amounting to 242 billion yen, 113 billion yen and 56 billion yen, respectively.its subsidiaries.

 

  Yen (billions)

  Yen (billions)

 
  Fiscal year ended March 31,

  Fiscal year ended March 31,

 
  2009

 2008

  2010

  2009

 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment shown as capital expenditures in the consolidated statements of cash flows

  522   419  376  522  

Effects of timing difference between acquisition dates and payment dates

  (28 30  9  (28
  

 
  
  

Capital investment

  494   449  385  494  
  

 
  
  

 

Capital investment (excluding intangibles) during fiscal 20092010 totaled 494385 billion yen, up 10%down 22% from the previous fiscal year’s total of 449494 billion yen, as shown onin the above table. The CompanyPanasonic implemented capital investment primarily to increase production capacity in strategic business areas such as flat panel TVsbatteries and semiconductors, while curbing capital investment in a number of business areas, in line with increasing management emphasis on capital efficiency.flat-panel TVs. Principal capital investments consisted of PDP manufacturing facilities for Plant No. 4 andthe domestic Plant No. 5 in Amagasaki, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan; LCD panel production facilities for the Himeji plant in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan; and semiconductor manufacturinglithium-ion battery production facilities for the UozuSuminoe plant located in ToyamaOsaka Prefecture, Japan.

 

Depreciation (excluding intangibles) during fiscal 20092010 amounted to 326252 billion yen, up 16%down 23% compared with 282326 billion yen in the previous fiscal year.year as the Company incurred impairment losses in fiscal 2009.

 

Net cash provided by operating activities in fiscal 20092010 amounted to 117522 billion yen, compared with 466117 billion yen in the previous fiscal year. This result was attributable primarilydue mainly to depreciationoperational improvement, as well as an increase in trade payables, accrued expenses and other current liabilities, and a decrease in trade receivables,inventories, despite net loss and a decreasean increase in trade payables.receivables. Net cash used in investing activities amounted to 469323 billion yen, compared with 61470 billion yen in fiscal 2008. Despite having proceeds from disposition of investments and advances, this2009. This result was due primarily to the decrease of expenses by reduction in capital expenditures for tangible fixed assetsinvestment and a decrease in time deposits, despite an outflow to purchase of 522SANYO shares of 175 billion yen mainly consisting(deducting the amount of manufacturing facilities for priority business areas suchcash and cash equivalents of SANYO and its subsidiaries as plasma and liquid crystal display panels, and semiconductors.of acquisition date.) Net cash provided byused in financing activities was 14957 billion yen, compared with cash outflowinflow of 204149 billion yen in fiscal 2008.2009. This result was due mainly to an increase in long-term debt by issuingthe issuance of unsecured straight bonds of 400 billion yen by Panasonic Corporation,in fiscal 2009, despite repurchasea decrease of the Company’s common stockdividend payment and repurchasing of 72 billion yen and the payment of cash dividends.its own shares. All these activities as well as a net decrease in cash and cash equivalents of 36 billion yen associated with the effect of exchange rate fluctuations (a negative impact of 6 billion yen) resulted in a net decrease of 241 billion yen in cash and cash equivalents during fiscal 2009. Cash and cash equivalents at the end of fiscal 2009 totaled 9742010 of 1,110 billion yen, compared with 1,215974 billion yen a year ago.

 

Free cash flow in fiscal 20092010 amounted to a cash inflow of 199 billion yen, compared with a cash outflow of 353 billion yen compared with a cash inflow of 405 billion yen in fiscal 2008.2009. This result was due mainly to operational improvement, as well as a decrease in net incomeinventories and an increase in capital expenditures. (For a reconciliation of free cash flow to the most directly comparable U.S. GAAP financial measure and related discussion, see “Overview—Key performance indicators” in Section A of this Item 5.)


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Commitments for Capital Expenditures

 

As of March 31, 2009,2010, commitments outstanding for the purchase of property, plant and equipment amounted to 79105 billion yen.

 

C.Research and Development

 

In fiscal 2009,2010, Panasonic executed initiatives to accelerate R&D with a focus on key development themes to enhance R&D efficiency primarily by creating a common platform for technologies straddling different products and business segments, and to developbolster development of energy-saving and environmental technologies.

 

Panasonic engages in a broad range of R&D themes, including digital network software, device and environmental technologies. The Company has established R&D sites at optimal locations globally as it builds an R&D structure that optimally utilizes the personnel and technologies in Japan, North America, Europe, China and the ASEAN region. For example, at the Panasonic Hollywood Laboratory in North America, Panasonic has developed Blu-ray 3Dtechnologies in collaboration with movie studios. In Europe and China, meanwhile, the Company has strengthened its development of appliances products such as refrigerators and air conditioners that are more tailored to regional characteristics in terms of food, clothing and housing.

R&D Expenditures amounted to 477 billion yen, 518 billion yen and 555 billion yen for the three fiscal years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, representing 6.4%, 6.7% and 6.1% of Panasonic’s total net sales for each of those periods.


- 41 -

 

Key development themes during the fiscal year were as follows:

 

 (1)Approximately 1-inch Thin Full-FlatFull HD 3D Plasma TVs that Consume about 50% Less Electricity*1 Panasonic succeeded in nearly doubling the luminous efficiency*2 of its plasma TVs with a newly developed structure that uses wider electrodes along the front panel to expand the discharge area and with other advances. These plasma TVs also offer the world’s highest*3 moving picture resolution of 1,080 lines*4 while consuming approximately half the power. Thanks to the lower power consumption, heat problems have been alleviated. As a result, Panasonic has created a full-flat display that is only approximately 1-inch, or 24.7 mm*5, thin at its thickest part.Display Panels (PDPs)

Panasonic developed high-speed 3D image display drive technology, including new panel materials and LSIs, that enables rapid illumination of pixels while maintaining brightness, as well as crosstalk reduction technology for minimizing double-image (ghosting) that occurs when left- and right-eye images are alternately displayed thanks to newly developed phosphors with short luminescence decay time and illumination control technology. Due to these developments, the Company nearly doubled luminous efficiency from the previous fiscal year and reduced the luminescence decay time to one-third*1 of conventional phosphors.

As a result, Panasonic refined the world’s first*2 103-inch full HD 3D PDP which developed in the previous fiscal year. The new panel can provide full HD images for the left and right eyes at twice the speed of conventional 2D displays (1/120 of a second), enabling the production of clear 3D images and making possible a true high-quality 3D movie-theatre experience in the home living room.

 

 (2)UniPhier® System LSINewly Developed ECO NAVI-equipped Room Air Conditioner With Three Sensors for Mobile Phones that Integrates Communication and Application Functions Tapping system LSI design technology to integrate approximately 280 million transistors on a single chip and 45nm semiconductor micro-processing technology, Panasonic reduced the chip area by around 40%*6. At the same time, Panasonic extended “one-segment” DTV broadcast viewing and audio playback times by approximately 25%*7. This was achieved by power consumption-reduction technologies that control the operating frequency for applications and communication, and by adopting power supply control architectures optimal for both times of operation and non-operation.Control

Panasonic has achieved energy savings of up to approximately 70%*3 during heating due to automatic energy-conservation operation made possible by three types of sensors: a “people sensor” that detects people’s location and movement in a room and also controls airflow according to body temperature; a “room layout sensor” that detects the position of furniture and controls the direction of airflow to reach people, as well as detects the position of walls to cap operation; and an “insolation sensor” which senses changes in the amount of sunlight in a room from windows due to changes in the weather and time of day and adjusts the room temperature accordingly.

 

 (3)Refrigerator with Top-Unit Compressor that Achieves the Best Energy Saving in the IndustryThe Industry’s**84 through Highly Effective Cooling Control Panasonic has employed a compressor with a highly efficient operating pattern and smaller control board components to limit electricity consumption. And with an efficient layout which concentrates frozen zones in the center and optimal placement of vacuum insulating materials, power consumption has been reduced by approximately 30%*9.First 18650-type High-Capacity 3.1 Ah Lithium-ion Battery

Panasonic developed safe, high-capacity 3.1 Ah batteries with Company’s safety technology. This technology, called Heat Resistance Layer (HRL) technology, forms an insulating metal oxide layer between the nickel positive and negative electrodes, preventing batteries from overheating even if a short circuit occurs. Panasonic has begun mass producing these batteries in December 2009.

Moreover, the Company developed a 3.4 Ah high-capacity battery with greater density (mass production is scheduled to commence in fiscal 2011) using a proprietary nickel positive electrode for extended operating times in notebooks PCs and electric vehicles (EVs) as well as a 4.0 Ah high-capacity battery that uses a silicon-based alloy for the negative electrode. Panasonic plans to begin mass production of the latter battery in fiscal 2012.

 

 (4)Rechargeable EVOLTA Battery that Delivers the Highest Number of Recharges in the IndustryWorld’s First**105 Panasonic developed an EVOLTA series battery that can be recharged and used approximately 1,200 times, an approximate 20% improvement*11. This development drew on technology that stops materials from degrading through a homogeneous distribution of hydrogen-absorbing alloy constituents; a proprietary technique to increase the capacity of the can; and technology that prevents surface deterioration to maintain high performance over an extended period.Single Chip Gallium Nitride (GaN)-based Inverter IC

 

ExpendituresPanasonic has developed technology for researchfabricating GaN transistors on a cost-effective Si substrate with a large diameter. The GaN-based transistors function as high-speed switches between an on-state with low resistance and development amountedan off-state with a high breakdown voltage in order to 518 billion yen, 555 billion yenefficiently and 578 billion yen forsafely control large amounts of electricity.

In addition, the three fiscal years ended March 31, 2009, 2008inverter conversion loss was decreased by approximately 42%*6 to achieve the inverter function that converts direct to alternating current by single-chip by the insulation technology that enabled an independent drive of six GaN transistors, and 2007, respectively, representing 6.7%, 6.1% and 6.3% of Panasonic’s total net sales for each of those periods.a highly effective motor drive was achieved.

 

(Notes)

 *1.Approximately 40% annual reduction in a 50-inch display and approximately 46% annual reduction in a 46-inch display comparedCompared with equivalent-sizedthe same size of existing models in Panasonic’s P Z800/85/80 series.(V1 series).
 *2.Compared with the Company’s 2007 models (PZ750 series, etc.)As of September 24, 2008; Company estimates.


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 *3.For the X series. Calculated based on the Company’s conditions and therefore the cumulative power consumption may differ from a calculation based on JIS. The figure is the maximum energy saving and will vary depending on the environment and conditions where the air conditioner is installed.
*4.As a plasma TV for the consumer market; as of February 3,December 18, 2009; Company estimates.
 *4.Moving picture resolution indicates the motion display performance in TVs and displays that is measured using a formula developed by Advanced PDP Development Center Corporation.
*5.Only the display, excluding protrusions; 46-inch display, 49 mm thick.As of December 7, 2009; Company estimates.
 *6.Compared with existing Company products.to a conventional Si-based IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor) at the output power of 20W.
*7.Compared with existing Company products.
*8.New NR-F503T, in a CFC-free refrigerator-freezer for Japanese households with a rated volume of at least 501 L.; as of September 12, 2008.
*9.Compared with the Company’s 2007 models (NR-F532T, NR-F472T)
*10.As of August 28, 2008 for commercialized nickel-metal hydride batteries (AA batteries with a minimum capacity of 1,900 mAh, and AAA batteries with a minimum capacity of 750 mAh)
*11.Existing Company product (HHR-3MPS): Approximately 1,000 recharges.


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D.Trend Information

 

Panasonic expects thatThe world has drastically shifted to a sustainable multipolarized society with serious environmental issues, resource depletion, and the economic environmentgrowth of emerging countries. A worldwide recession which began in the fall of 2008 accelerated this shift. Although the Company continues to anticipate uncertainties in the global economy in fiscal 2010 will be more severe than2011, it expects a gradual recovery trend and greater demand from emerging markets. Panasonic also expects the pastgreater presence of businesses, products, and services that are based on new values such as ‘environmental awareness’ and ‘conscientious consumption.’

The Company has launched a new three-year midterm management plan, “Green Transformation 2012,” or GT12, for the period from fiscal year, as2011 to fiscal 2013. To realize its vision of becoming the global recession and shrinking demand triggered by‘No.1 Green Innovation Company in the financial crisis coincide with changes in market structure, including the expansion of emerging markets and a shiftElectronics Industry’ leading up to lower-priced products. Responding to these business conditions,its 100th anniversary, the Company will simultaneously rebuildcontribute to the environment and business growth to build a new Panasonic with a ‘Paradigm shift for growth’ and ‘Lay a foundation to be a Green Innovation Company’ as key themes to establish a ‘Panasonic Group with strong potential for growth.’

To engineer a paradigm shift for growth, the Company will shift its business: 1) from existing to new fields such as energy, 2) from Japan-centric to globally oriented, and 3) from individual products to solutions and systems. To lay the foundation to be a Green Innovation Company, the Company aims to: 1) increase profitability based on growth and 2) contribute to the environment, using indexes respectively.

Panasonic has set the following Group management structure while preparinggoals for GT12: 5% or more in operating profit ratio, 10 trillion yen in sales, a three-year accumulative total of over 800 billion yen in free cash flow, 10% in ROE, and taking actiona 50 million ton reduction in CO2 emissions (compared with the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006).

The four main Group strategies to achieve these goals are as follows:

1)Growth Driven by Six Key Businesses: Panasonic has designated three businesses as core businesses that will drive Companywide sales and earnings: energy systems (annual average growth rate: 16%), heating/refrigeration/air conditioning (7.4%), and network AV (10%). In addition, the Company sees healthcare, security and LED as next-generation key businesses for building solid foundations for full-fledged growth. Panasonic will concentrate business resources on these six key businesses with the aim of increasing their sales by 1.2 trillion yen, which would account for more than 80% of the total sales growth target.

2)Expanding Overseas Business Focusing on Emerging Markets: Panasonic will focus on BRICs + Vietnam and MINTS + B (Mexico, Indonesia, Nigeria, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and the Balkans) as it aims to increase consumer and systems product sales by 330 billion yen and thereby raise the Group’s overseas sales ratio to 55%. To this end, Panasonic will strengthen customer-oriented manufacturing that directly targets the high-volume segments, globally expand the home appliance business based on core environmental technologies, and increase brand awareness through further investment in advertising and promotion overseas.

3)Reinforcing Systems and Equipment Business: Panasonic aims to generate 2.6 trillion yen in sales from its systems and equipment business. In particular, in order to achieve large growth in overseas sales, Panasonic will strengthen its sales network, recruit people for reinforcing engineering and localization efforts, and strengthen relationships with local system integration companies. Furthermore, it will establish a system for promoting businesses as a Group so as to increase the ability to make comprehensive proposals.


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4)Collaboration with SANYO: Through collaboration with SANYO in business, Panasonic strives to increase operating profit by over 80 billion yen in fiscal 2013 by increasing sales, improving development efficiency and strengthening its management structure through centralized contracts and sharing infrastructure. On April 1, 2010, Panasonic set up the Strategic Working Committee for Group Collaboration to accelerate these efforts.

Panasonic will also promote management innovation for future growth. Fiscalsupporting these Group strategies. On April 1, 2010, the Company established the Group Management Innovation Division and the four subcommittees under it, which are implementing the following initiatives:

The Environment Innovation Subcommittee: Initiatives on environmental contribution and “Itakona” activities.

The V-Products Subcommittee: Promoting the manufacture of V-Products with outstanding features.

The New and Key Business Promotion Subcommittee: Strengthening the capability to generate new businesses and promoting key businesses.

The Management and IT Innovation Subcommittee: Promoting management and IT innovation

Besides the above actions, Panasonic is accelerating global human resources development and working on cash flow-oriented management. Regarding the final year oflatter, the GP3 plan and although the currentCompany will execute a clear-cut strategy that divides its business environment is significantly differentinto four categories from the plan’s initial assumptions, Panasonic will continue to push ahead with initiatives set forthstandpoint of growth potential and profitability. At the same time, in the GP3 plan without changing it, and aims to ready itself to leap ahead when the market recovers.

In order to rebuild its management structure,improve the cash flow generation capability at operating sites, Panasonic will implement drasticits Midterm Enhanced Cash Flow Management Project. It will strengthen the monitoring of large-scale investments and develop the concept of theoretical inventories and apply this throughout all Group companies.

Based on its basic management philosophy, Panasonic believes today’s mission is to make all its business structural reforms. Guided byactivities ‘environment’ centered and take the policieslead to offer life innovation with decisive actions. Having added SANYO and its consolidated subsidiaries to the Panasonic Group, in the next three years of selection and concentration and the strategic placement of overseas sites,new midterm management plan, Panasonic will strive for newtake initiatives to change itself to fill Panasonic with innovation and growth by clarifying which businessespotential to withdraw from and shifting resources to growing businesses based on the results ofcarry out its examinations. Furthermore,mission. In fiscal 2011, the Company will ensure “Itakona” becomes standard practice and accelerate initiatives to reduce procurement costs. It will also step up actions including implementing comprehensive cost rationalization efforts, curbing capital expenditures and reducing inventories.

Regarding preparations and actions for future growth,begin the cornerstone is strengthening products. The Company’s approach is to create products that are unique to Panasonic, products that link well with one another, have superior energy-efficiency and are based on universal design concepts. These products will incorporate its customer’s viewpoint, as well as excel in termsfirst phase of safety, quality and environmental performance. On top of that, Panasonic will push steadily ahead with the four major themes of the GP3 plan: double-digit growth for overseas sales, four strategic businesses, manufacturing innovation and the eco ideas strategy.

In the digital AV business, onetargets a return to profitability and to parlay this into achievement of the four strategic businesses, Panasonic has decided to reduce major capital investment for the 5th domestic PDP plant in Amagasaki and the IPS Alpha plant in Himeji, because of lower growth in the flat-panel TV markets caused by the economic recession. However, the Company aims to outgrow its competitors by strengthening product development to maintain growth momentum in its flat-panel TV business.

In addition to these activities, Panasonic will start operating the New Business Promotion Support System in fiscal 2010. The Head Office will assist in creating new businesses by providing financial, technical and personnel assistance when the priority projects of business domain companies and Company-wide common projects are launched commercially.

Regarding the capital and business alliance with SANYO, a Collaboration Committee, which was set up to form a close alliance after completing the TOB, is looking at wide-ranging themes, while giving sufficient consideration to competition laws. Panasonic has positioned the energy business as a business field with extremely high growth potential. Therefore, Panasonic intends to broaden this business as its fifth strategic business to drive the Company’s future growth.GT12 goals.


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E.Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

The Company established sale-leaseback arrangements for manufacturing machinery and equipment, and sale of receivables without recourse and with recourse, as off-balance sheet arrangements in order to reduce its total assets.

 

In fiscal 2009,2010, Panasonic sold machinery and equipment for 1795 billion yen, which are used infor manufacturing semiconductors,plasma display panel and other products, to Sumishin Matsushita Financial Services Co., Ltd. (On April 1, 2010, the name has been changed to Sumishin Panasonic Financial Services Co., Ltd.) and other third parties. The assets are leased back to Panasonic over a period of one to five years. Panasonic guarantees a specific value of the leased assets. These leases are classified as operating leases for U.S. GAAP purposes. Including the above-mentioned, the aggregate amount of future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable operating leases is 175170 billion yen at March 31, 2009.2010. (For further details, see Note 56 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

In fiscal 2009,2010, Panasonic sold, without recourse, trade receivables of 458444 billion yen to independent third parties for proceeds of 457443 billion yen. In fiscal 2009,2010, Panasonic sold, with recourse, trade receivables of 412356 billion yen to independent third parties for proceeds of 411355 billion yen. (For further details, see Note 1516 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

In addition, the Company provides several types of guarantees and similar arrangements. (For further details, see Note 1819 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)


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F.Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

 

The two tables below show Panasonic’s cash payment obligations and guarantees and other commercial commitments, broken down by the payment amounts due for each of the periods specified below, as of March 31, 2009:2010:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  Payments Due by Period

  Payments Due by Period

  Total

  Less than
1 year


  1-3
years

  3-5
years

  After
5 years

  Total

  Less than
1 year


  1-3
years

  3-5
years

  After
5 years


Contractual Obligations:

                              

Long-Term Debt Obligations

  585,322  7,475  213,782  221,886  142,179  1,091,282  166,953  390,010  361,878  172,441

Interest Obligations

  45,383  9,051  16,265  10,230  9,837  53,357  14,007  19,337  10,171  9,842

Capital Lease Obligations

  112,331  38,868  51,667  12,693  9,103  144,770  40,171  53,305  20,611  30,683

Operating Lease Obligations

  174,929  56,444  92,466  21,394  4,625  169,965  71,686  69,209  24,844  4,226

Purchase Obligations

  79,068  79,068  —    —    —    218,470  118,499  26,257  22,905  50,809

Defined benefit plan contribution

  73,823  73,823  —    —    —    91,195  91,195  —    —    —  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Total Contractual Cash Obligations

  1,070,856  264,729  374,180  266,203  165,744  1,769,039  502,511  558,118  440,409  268,001
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Note : Contingent payments related to uncertain tax positions of 7 billion yen are excluded from the table above, as it is not possible to reasonably predict the ultimate amount of settlement or timing of payment.

Note : Contingent payments related to uncertain tax positions of 10 billion yen are excluded from the table above, as it is not possible to reasonably predict the ultimate amount of settlement or timing of payment.

Note : Contingent payments related to uncertain tax positions of 10 billion yen are excluded from the table above, as it is not possible to reasonably predict the ultimate amount of settlement or timing of payment.

  Yen (millions)

     Yen (millions)

   
  Total Amounts
Committed


    Total Amounts
Committed


  

Other Commercial Commitments:

          

Guarantees

  33,434    38,480  
  
    
  

Total Commercial Commitments

  33,434    38,480  
  
    
  

 

Discounted exported bills generally have contractual lives of less than one year. Loan guarantees are principally provided on behalf of employees, associated companies and customers, and generally have long-term contractual lives coinciding with the maturities of the guaranteed obligations. (For further details, see Notes 5, 8,6, 9, 10, 11 and 1819 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

G.Safe Harbor

 

See “Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”


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H.Accounting Principles

 

Critical Accounting Policies

 

The Company has identified the following critical accounting policies which are important to its financial condition and results of operations, and require management’s judgment.

 

Long-lived Assets

 

The useful lives of long-lived assets are summarized in Note 1(h) of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this annual report and reflect the estimated period that the Company expects to derive economic benefit from their use. In estimating the useful lives and determining whether subsequent revisions to the useful lives are necessary, the Company considers the likelihood of technological obsolescence, changes in demand for the products related to such assets, and other factors which may affect their utilization of the long-lived assets. The effect of any future changes to the estimated useful lives of the long-lived assets could be significant to the Company’s results of operations.

 

Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amounts of assets or asset group may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to future net cash flows (undiscounted and without interest charges) expected to be generated by the asset. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the estimated fair value of the asset. Assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less selling costs. Factors which may contribute to the need for future impairment charges include changes in the use of assets resulting from the Company’s restructuring initiatives, technological changes or any significant declines in the demand for related products.

 

Valuation of Investment Securities

 

The Company holds available-for-sale securities, held-to-maturity securities, equity method securities and cost method securities, included in short-term investments, and investments and advances. Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value with unrealized holding gains and losses included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable taxes.

 

Individual securities are reduced to net realizable value by a charge to earnings for other-than-temporary declines in fair value. Management regularly reviews each investment security for impairment based on criteria that includes the extent to which cost exceeds market value, the duration of that market decline and the financial health of and specific prospects for the issuer. Because such specific information may become available after the Company makes the impairment evaluation, and whether the impairment is other-than-temporary depends upon future events that may or may not occur, the Company may be required to recognize an other-than-temporary impairment in the future. Determination of whether a decline in value is other-than-temporary requires judgment. At March 31, 2009,2010, the Company has recorded 296384 billion yen of available-for-sale securities, 412 billion yen of held-to-maturity securities, 22 billion yen of cost method securities, 1350 billion yen of equity method securities that have market values, and 204179 billion yen of equity method securities that do not have market values, advances and others. These investments could be determined to be other-than-temporarily impaired, depending on changes to the current facts and assumptions. In fiscal 2009,2010, the Company recorded 927 billion yen impairment losses on investment securities.

 

For further discussion on valuation of investment securities, see Notes 34 and 45 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this annual report.


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Valuation of Inventory

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost, determined on a first-in, first-out basis or average basis, or net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs of completion and the estimated costs necessary to make a sale. The Company routinely reviews its inventories for their salability and for indications of obsolescence to determine if inventories should be written-down to net realizable value. Judgments and estimates must be made and used in connection with establishing such allowances in any accounting period. In estimating the net realizable value of its inventories, the Company considers the age of the inventories and the likelihood of spoilage or changes in market demand for its inventories.


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Warranties

 

The Company makes estimates of potential warranty claims related to its goods sold. The Company provides for such costs based upon historical experience and its estimate of the level of future claims. Management makes judgments and estimates in connection with establishing the warranty reserve in any accounting period. Differences may result in the amount and timing of its revenue for any period if management makes different judgments or utilizes different estimates. (For further details, see Note 1819 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.)

 

Valuation of Accounts Receivable and Noncurrent Receivables

 

The Company reviews its accounts receivable on a periodic basis and provides an allowance for doubtful receivables based on historical loss experience and current economic conditions. In evaluating the collectibility of individual receivable balances, the Company considers the age of the balance, the customers’ payment history, their current credit-worthiness and adequacy of collateral.

 

The Company records noncurrent receivables, representing loans from finance lease transactions, at cost, less the related allowance for impaired receivables. A loan is considered to be impaired when, based on current information and events, it is probable that the Company will be unable to collect all amounts due according to the contractual terms of the loan agreement. When a loan is considered to be impaired, the amount of impairment is measured based on the present value of expected future cash flows or the fair value of the collateral. Cash receipts on impaired receivables are applied to reduce the principal amount of such receivables until the principal has been recovered and are recognized as interest income thereafter. Management’s judgment is required in making estimates of the future cash flows of an impaired loan. Such estimates are based on current economic conditions and the current and expected financial condition of the debtor. (For further details, see Schedule II of Item 18.)

 

Valuation of Goodwill

 

Goodwill is tested for impairment on an annual basis, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that the goodwill may be impaired, such as an adverse change in business climate. Impairment is recorded if the implied fair value of goodwill is less than its carrying amount. The fair value determination used in the impairment assessment requires estimates of the fair value of reporting units based on quoted market prices, prices of comparable businesses, present value or other valuation techniques, or a combination thereof, necessitating management to make subjective judgments and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions could result in significant differences to the amounts reported if underlying circumstances were to change. At March 31, 2009,2010, the Company has recorded 411923 billion yen of goodwill, part or all of which could be determined to be impaired in future periods, depending on changes to the current facts and assumptions. For further discussion on goodwill, see Note 78 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this annual report.


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Valuation of Deferred Tax Assets and Sustainability of Uncertain Tax Positions

 

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets and uncertain tax positions based on the expected future generation of taxable income or assessed sustainability of uncertain tax positions, Panasonic considers whether it is more likely than not that any portion or all of the deferred tax assets or recognized benefit under uncertain tax position benefit will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets and uncertain tax positions is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences become deductible or dependent on assessed sustainability of uncertain tax positions. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment over the valuation of deferred tax assets.

 

At March 31, 2009,2010, the Company has recorded gross deferred tax assets of 1,2641,652 billion yen with a total valuation allowance of 4781,015 billion yen. Included in the gross deferred tax assets is 333617 billion yen resulting from net operating loss carryforwards (NOLs) of 9361,668 billion yen, which are available to offset future taxable income. In order to fully realize these NOLs, the Company will need to generate sufficient taxable income by the expiration of these NOLs. These NOLs of 8351,528 billion yen expire from fiscal 20102011 through 20162017 and the remaining balance expire thereafter or do not expire. Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences, net of the existing valuation allowance at March 31, 20092010 based on available evidence. The Company could be required to increase the valuation allowance if such assumptions would change concluding that the Company would not be able to generate sufficient taxable income. At March 31, 2009,2010, the Company has recorded 710 billion yen of unrecognized tax benefits. For further discussion on valuation of deferred tax assets and realizability of uncertain tax positions, see Note 1011 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this annual report.


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Retirement and Severance Benefits

 

Retirement and severance benefits costs and obligations are dependent on assumptions used in calculating such amounts. The discount rate and expected return on assets are the most critical assumptions among others, including retirement rates, mortality rates and salary growth. While management believes that the assumptions used are appropriate, actual results in any given year could differ from actuarial assumptions because of economic and other factors. The resulting difference is accumulated and amortized and therefore, generally affect the Company’s retirement and severance benefit costs and obligations in future period.

 

The Company determines discount rates by looking to rates of return on high-quality fixed income investments, and the expected long-term rate of return on pension plan assets by considering the current and expected asset allocations, as well as historical and expected returns on various categories of plan assets. Decreases in discount rates lead to increases in benefit obligations which, in turn, could lead to an increase in amortization cost through amortization of actuarial gain or loss, and vice versa. A decrease of 50 basis points in the discount rate is expected to increase the projected benefit obligation by approximately eightseven percent. A decline in market stock values generally results in a lower expected rate of return on plan assets, which would result in an increase of future retirement and severance benefit costs.


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Accounting for Derivatives

 

The Company has limited involvement with derivative financial instruments and does not use them for trading purposes. The Company uses derivative instruments principally to manage foreign currency risks resulting from transactions denominated in currencies other than the Japanese yen. The Company recognizes all derivatives as either assets or liabilities on the balance sheet at their fair values. Changes in the fair value of a derivative are reported in earnings or other comprehensive income (loss) depending on their use and whether they qualify for hedge accounting. The accounting for gains and losses associated with changes in the fair value of the derivative depends on its hedge designation and whether the hedge is highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item. The Company evaluates and determines on a continuous basis if the derivative remains highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item. If the derivative ceases to be highly effective in offsetting changes in the fair value or cash flows of the hedged item, the Company discontinues hedge accounting prospectively. Because the derivatives the Company uses are not complex, significant judgment is not required to determine their fair values. Fair values are determined principally by receivingbased an unadjusted market prices or quotations from banks or brokers.


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Loss Contingencies

 

Loss contingencies may from time to time arise from situations such as product liability claims, warranty claims, disputes over intellectual property rights, environmental remediation obligations, and other legal actions. Loss contingencies are recorded as liabilities when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss is reasonably estimable. Disclosure is required when there is a reasonable possibility that the ultimate loss will exceed the recorded provision. Contingent liabilities are often resolved over long time periods. In recording liabilities for probable losses, management is required to make estimates and judgments regarding the amount or range of the probable loss. Management continually assesses the adequacy of estimated loss contingencies and, if necessary, adjusts the amounts recorded as better information becomes known.


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New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In September 2006,December 2009, FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2009-16, “Accounting for Transfers of Financial Assets.SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishesASU2009-16 removes the concept of a frameworkqualifying special-purpose entity (QSPE) from ASC 860, “Transfers and Servicing,” and the exception from applying ASC 810 to QSPEs, thereby requiring transferors of financial assets to evaluate whether to consolidate transferees that previously were considered QSPEs. ASU 2009-16 also clarifies ASC 860’s sale-accounting criteria pertaining to legal isolation and effective control and creates more stringent conditions for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. In February 2008, FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. 157-2, “Effective Datereporting a transfer of FASB Statement No. 157,” which partially delaysa portion of a financial asset as a sale. ASU 2009-16 is effective for the effective dateCompany as of SFAS No. 157 by one year for certain nonfinancial assets and liabilities. On April 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157 for all financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements.2010. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. On April 1, 2009, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157 for all nonfinancial assets and liabilities. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 for all nonfinancial assets and liabilitiesASU 2009-16 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. However, the Company frequently utilized an entity specific fair values in calculating charges such as certain impairments on a continuous basis. With the adoption of SFAS No. 157, a use of market participant fair values may have an impact on the valuation of the various charges.

 

In December 2007,2009, FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (SFAS No. 141R)ASU 2009-17, “Improvements to Financial Reporting by Enterprises Involved with Variable Interest Entities.” ASU 2009-17, which amends ASC 810, revises the test for determining the primary beneficiary of a Variable Interest Entities (VIE) from a primarily quantitative risks and SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendmentrewards calculation based on the VIE’s expected losses and expected residual returns to ARB No. 51.” SFAS No. 141Ra primarily qualitative analysis based on identifying the party or related-party (if any) with the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact the VIE’s economic performance and No. 160 require most identifiable assets, liabilities, noncontrolling interests, and goodwill acquired in a business combinationthe obligation to absorb losses of, or the right to receive benefits from, the VIE that could potentially be recorded at “full fair value” and require noncontrolling interests (previously referredsignificant to as minority interests) to be reported as a component of equity, which changes the accounting for transactions with noncontrolling interest holders. SFAS No. 141R and No. 160 will beVIE. ASU 2009-17 is effective for the Company as of April 1, 2009. SFAS No. 141R will be applied to business combinations occurring after the effective date. SFAS No. 160 will be applied prospectively to all noncontrolling interests, including any that arose before the effective date and the disclosure requirement will be applied retrospectively.2010. The Company is currently in the process of assessing the impact of the adoption of SFAS No. 141R and No. 160ASU 2009-17 is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

 

In December 2008,October 2009, FASB issued FASB Staff Position FAS 132R-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets” (FSP FAS 132R-1). FSP FAS 132R-1 provides guidanceASU 2009-13, “Multiple-Deliverable Revenue Arrangements.” ASU 2009-13 amends ASC 605 to eliminate the requirement that all undelivered elements have vendor specific objective evidence of selling price (VSOE) or third party evidence of selling price (TPE) before an entity can recognize the portion of an overall arrangement fee that is attributable to items that already have been delivered. In the absence of VSOE and TPE for one or more delivered or undelivered elements in a multiple-element arrangement, entities will be required to estimate the selling prices of those elements in a multiple-element arrangement. The overall arrangement fee will be allocated to each element (both delivered and undelivered items) based on their relative selling prices, regardless of whether those selling prices are evidenced by VSOE or TPE or are based on the entity’s estimated selling price. Application of the “residual method” of allocating an employer’s disclosures about plan assetsoverall arrangement fee between delivered and undelivered elements will no longer be permitted upon adoption of a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan. The disclosures about plan assets required by FSP FAS 132R-1 must be providedASU 2009-13. ASU 2009-13 is effective prospectively for the Company in periodsCompany’s revenue arrangements entered into or materially modified beginning on or after April 1, 2009. The Company is currently in the process of assessing the impact of the adoption of FSP FAS 132R-1 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FAS 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets” (FSP FAS 142-3). FSP FAS 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142. FSP FAS 142-3 will be effective for the Company as of April 1, 2009.2011. The Company is currently in the process of assessing the impact of adoption of FSP FAS 142-3ASU 2009-13 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.


- 4951 -

 

Item 6.Directors, Senior Management and Employees

 

A.Directors and Senior Management

 

The Articles of Incorporation of the Company provide that the number of Directors of the Company shall be three or more and that of Corporate Auditors shall be three or more. Directors and Corporate Auditors shall be elected at the general meeting of shareholders.

 

The Board of Directors has ultimate responsibility for administration of the Company’s affairs and monitoring of the execution of business by Directors. Directors may, by resolution of the Board of Directors, appoint a Chairman of the Board of Directors, a Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, a President and Director, and one or more Executive Vice Presidents and Directors, Senior Managing Directors and Managing Directors. The Chairman of the Board of Directors, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors, President and Director, Executive Vice Presidents and Directors, and Senior Managing Directors are Representative Directors and severally represent the Company. A Japanese joint stock corporation with corporate auditors, such as Panasonic, is not obliged under the Company Law of Japan and related laws and ordinances (collectively, the “Company Law”), to have any outside directors on its board of directors. However, Panasonic has two (2) outside Directors. An “outside director” is defined as a director of the company who does not engage or has not engaged in the execution of business of the company or its subsidiaries as a director of any of these corporations, and who does not serve or has not served as an executive officer, manager or in any other capacity as an employee of the company or its subsidiaries. Outside Directors directly or indirectly cooperate with the internal audit, audit by Corporate Auditors and external audit, receive reports from the Internal Auditing Group and conduct an effective monitoring through reports on financial results at meetings of the Board of Directors and through reviews of the basic policy regarding the development of internal control systems and other methods. The term of office of Directors shall, under the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, expire at the conclusion of the ordinary general meeting of shareholders with respect to the last business year ending within one year from their election.

 

Corporate Auditors of the Company are not required to be, and are not, certified public accountants. Corporate Auditors may not at the same time be Directors, accounting counselors, executive officers, managers or any other capacity as employees of the Company or any of its subsidiaries. Under the Company Law, at least half of the Corporate Auditors shall be outside corporate auditors. An “outside corporate auditor” is defined as a corporate auditor of the company who has never been a director, accounting counselor, executive officer, manager or in any other capacity as an employee of the company or any of its subsidiaries. Outside Corporate Auditors directly or indirectly cooperate with the internal audit, audit by Corporate Auditors and accounting audit, receive reports from the Internal Auditing Group and conduct an effective monitoring through reports on financial results at meetings of the Board of Directors, through reviews of the basic policy regarding the development of internal control systems and through exchanges of opinions and information at meetings of the Board of Corporate Auditors and other methods. Each Corporate Auditor has the statutory duty to audit the non-consolidated and consolidated financial statements and business reports to be submitted by a Director to the general meeting of shareholders and, based on such audit and a report of an Accounting Auditor referred to below, to respectively prepare his or her audit report. Each Corporate Auditor also has the statutory duty to supervise Directors’ execution of their duties. The Corporate Auditors are required to attend meetings of the Board of Directors and express opinions, if necessary, at such meetings, but they are not entitled to vote. In addition, Corporate Auditors receive monthly reports regarding the status of the internal control system, the audit results, etc. from the Internal Audit Group or from other sections. Corporate Auditors may request the Internal Audit Group or the Accounting Auditor to conduct an investigation, if necessary. The terms of office shall expire at the conclusion of the ordinary general meeting of shareholders with respect to the last business year ending within four years from their election. However, they may serve any number of consecutive terms if re-elected.

 

Corporate Auditors constitute the Board of Corporate Auditors. The Board of Corporate Auditors has a statutory duty to, based on the reports prepared by respective Corporate Auditors, prepare and submit its audit report to Accounting Auditors and certain Directors designated to receive such report (if such Directors are not designated, the Directors who prepared the financial statements and the business report). A Corporate Auditor may note his or her opinion in the audit report if his or her opinion expressed in his or her audit report is different from the opinion expressed in the audit report of the Board of Corporate Auditors. The Board of Corporate Auditors shall elect one or more full-time Corporate Auditors from among its members. The Board of Corporate Auditors is empowered to establish auditing policies, the manner of investigation of the status of the corporate affairs and assets of the Company, and any other matters relating to the execution of the duties of Corporate Auditors. However, the Board of Corporate Auditors may not prevent each Corporate Auditor from exercising his or her powers.


- 52 -

Pursuant to recent amendments to the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges, the Company is required to have one or more “independent director(s)/corporate auditor(s)” which terms are defined under the relevant regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges as “outside directors” or “outside corporate auditors” (each of which terms is defined under the Company Law) who are unlikely to have any conflict of interests with shareholders of the Company. All five (5) outside directors and corporate auditors satisfy the requirements for the “independent director/corporate auditor” under the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges, respectively. The definition of the “independent director/corporate auditor” is different from that of the independent directors under the corporate governance standard of the New York Stock Exchange or under Rule 10A-3 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

In addition to Corporate Auditors, an independent certified public accountant or an independent audit corporation must be appointed by general meetings of shareholders as Accounting Auditor of the Company. Such Accounting Auditor has the duties to audit the consolidated and non-consolidated financial statements proposed to be submitted by a Director at general meetings of shareholders and to report their opinion thereon to certain Corporate Auditors designated by the Board of Corporate Auditors to receive such report (if such Corporate Auditors are not designated, all Corporate Auditors) and certain Directors designated to receive such report (if such Directors are not designated, the Directors who prepared the financial statements). The consolidated financial statement is prepared in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (U.S. GAAP) and financial information on a non-consolidated (a parent company alone) basis is in conformity with Japanese regulations.


- 50 -

 

Under the Company Law and the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, the Company may, by a resolution of the Board of Directors, exempt Directors or Corporate Auditors, acting in good faith and without significant negligence, from their liabilities owed to the Company arising in connection with their failure to perform their duties to the extent permitted by the Company Law. In addition, the Company has entered into liability limitation agreements with each of the outside Directors and outside Corporate Auditors, acting in good faith and without significant negligence, which limit the maximum amount of their liabilities owed to the Company arising in connection with their failure to perform their duties to the extent permitted by the Company Law.

 

The Company implemented in fiscal 2004 a reform of its corporate management and governance structure by (i) reorganizing the role of the Board of Directors, (ii) introducing Panasonic’s own Executive Officer system* in its Group and (iii) strengthening its Corporate Auditor system, all tailored to the Group’s new business domain-based, autonomous management structure.

 

Panasonic’s Executive Officer system was introduced to address the diversity of business operations over the entire Group through delegation of authority and to help integrate the comprehensive strengths of all Group companies in Japan and overseas. The Board of Directors appoints Executive Officers mainly from senior management personnel of business domain companies, such as internal divisional companies and subsidiaries, as well as from management personnel responsible for overseas subsidiaries and certain senior corporate staff. The Executive Officers assume responsibility as the Group’s executives regarding execution of business. The Executive Officers may be given such titles as Vice President Executive Officer, Senior Managing Executive Officer, Managing Executive Officer and Executive Officer, depending on the extent of responsibility and achievement of each individual. The terms of office of the Executive Officers shall expire at the conclusion of the ordinary general meeting of shareholders with respect to the last business year of the Company ending within one year from their election. Each of the Executive Officers has the authority to operate businesses for which such Executive Officer is responsible, under the supervision of the Board of Directors and in accordance with the Board of Directors’ decisions on the management of corporate affairs.

 

The Board of Directors has, at the same time, been reformed in order to concentrate on establishing corporate strategies and supervising the implementation thereof by the Executive Officers. The Company has reduced the number of Directors to facilitate more effective decision-making, and shortened their term of office to one year in order to clarify their responsibilities. Taking into consideration the diversified scope of the Company’s business operations, the Company has chosen to continue its policy of having management personnel, who are well-versed in day-to-day operations at operational fronts, be members of the Board of Directors, while outside Directors continue to fully participate in Board meetings.


- 53 -

 

Meanwhile, the non-statutory full-time Senior Auditorssenior auditors were newly appointed within the Company’s internal divisional companies in order to strengthen auditing functions at each business domain company. In addition, the Company has also launched the “Group Auditor’s“Panasonic Group Auditor Meeting” chaired by the Chairman of the Board of Corporate Auditors of the Company in order to promote collaboration among the Company’s Corporate Auditors, the non-statutory full-time Senior Auditorssenior auditors of the internal divisional companies and the corporate auditors of the Company’s subsidiaries and affiliates. Moreover, as a part of their audit duties, Corporate Auditors maintain a close working relationship with the Internal Audit Group of the Company to ensure effective audits. Furthermore, in order to enhance the effectiveness of audits conducted by Corporate Auditors and ensure the smooth implementation of audits, the Company has established a Corporate Auditor’s Office with full-time staff under the direct control of the Board of Corporate Auditors.

 


*Panasonic’s Executive Officer (“Yakuin”) system is a non-statutory system and different from the corporate executive officer (“Shikkoyaku”) system that large Japanese corporations with board of directors and an accounting auditor may adopt at their option under the statutory corporate governance system referred to as “Company“joint stock corporation with Committees”specified committees” system stipulated in the Company Law.


- 51 -

 

The following table shows information about Panasonic’s Directors and Corporate Auditors as of June 25, 2009,2010, including their dates of birth, positions, responsibilities and brief personal records.

 

   

        Name          


  

Position and responsibilities in the Company, and brief personal records


   (Date of birth)       
   

Kunio Nakamura

(Jul. 5, 1939)

  

Chairman of the Board of Directors

    

-Jun. 1993

  

Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 1996

  

Managing Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 1997

  

Senior Managing Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2000

  

President of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2006

  

Chairman of the Board of Directors.

   

Masayuki Matsushita     

(Oct. 16, 1945)

  

Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors

    

-Feb. 1986

  

Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 1990

  

Managing Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 1992

  

Senior Managing Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 1996

  

Executive Vice President of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2000

  

Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors.

   

Fumio Ohtsubo

(Sep. 5, 1945)

  

President and Director

    

-Jun. 1998

  

Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2000

  

Managing Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2003

  

Senior Managing Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2006

  

President of the Company.

   

Susumu Koike

(Nov. 15, 1945)

Executive Vice President and Director

-Jun. 1998Director of the Company / in charge of Semiconductor Technology;
-Jun. 2000

Managing Director of the Company;

-Apr. 2001

President, Semiconductor Company;

-Jun. 2003Senior Managing Director of the Company / in charge of Technology;
-Apr. 2006Executive Vice President of the Company / in charge of Semiconductor Company.

Koshi Kitadai

(Oct. 1, 1945)

Executive Vice President and Director

-Jun. 2000

President, Matsushita Electronic Devices Co., Ltd.;

-Jun. 2003

Managing Executive Officer of the Company;

-Jun. 2005

Senior Managing Executive Officer of the Company;

-Apr. 2007President, Panasonic Automotive Systems Company / in charge of Corporate Industrial Marketing and Sales;
-Jun. 2007

Senior Managing Director of the Company;

-Apr. 2008Executive Vice President of the Company / in charge of the Automotive Electronics Business;
-Apr. 2009In charge of System Solutions Company and Panasonic Mobile Communications Co., Ltd.

Toshihiro Sakamoto *Sakamoto*

(Oct. 27, 1946)

  

Executive Vice President and Director

    

-Jun. 2000

  

Director of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2004

  

Managing Director of the Company;

    

-Apr. 2006

  

Senior Managing Director / President, Panasonic AVC Networks Company;

    

-Apr. 2009

  

Executive Vice President of the Company / in charge of Domestic Consumer Marketing and Design.Design;

-Apr. 2010

In charge of Domestic Customer Satisfaction.

   

Takahiro Mori

(Jun. 16, 1947)

  

Executive Vice President and Director

    

-Jun. 2003

  

Executive Officer of the Company;

    

-Jun. 2005

  

Managing Director of the Company / in charge of Corporate Communications Division;

   -Apr. 2006  

In charge of Corporate Planning;

   -Apr. 2008  

Senior Managing Director of the Company;

    -Apr. 2009  Executive Vice President of the Company / in charge of Corporate Division for Promoting System & Equipment Business, and Electrical Supplies Sales, Project Sales and Building Products Sales.


- 5254 -

 

   

        Name          


  

Position and responsibilities in the Company, and brief personal records


   (Date of birth)       
   

Yasuo Katsura *     Katsura*

(Sep. 19, 1947)

  

Senior ManagingExecutive Vice President and Director

-Jun. 2001

President, Matsushita Communication Industrial Co., Ltd.;

    -Jun. 2003  

Executive Officer of the Company;

    -Jun. 2004  Managing Executive Officer of the Company / Director of the Tokyo Branch;Company;
    -Jun. 2007  

Managing Director of the Company;

    -Apr. 2009  Senior Managing Director of the Company / Representative in Tokyo / Director, Corporate Division for Government & Public Affairs.Affairs;
-Apr. 2010Executive Vice President of the Company.
   

Hitoshi Otsuki *Otsuki*

(Jun. 6, 1947)

  

Senior Managing Director

    -Jun. 2003  Executive Officer of the Company / Director of Europe Division / Chairman of Panasonic Europe Ltd.;Company;
    -Apr. 2007  Managing Executive Officer of the Company / in charge of Overseas Operations;
    -Jun. 2007  

Managing Director of the Company;

    -Apr. 2009  

Senior Managing Director of the Company.

   

Ken Morita *Morita*

(Oct. 24, 1948)

  

Senior Managing Director

    -Jun. 2005  

Executive Officer of the Company;

-Apr. 2006Senior Vice President, Panasonic AVC Networks Company / Director, Visual Products and Display Devices Business Group;
    -Apr. 2007  

Managing Executive Officer of the Company;

    -Apr. 2009  Senior Managing Executive Officer of the Company / President, AVC Networks Company;
    -Jun. 2009  

Senior Managing Director of the Company.

   

Ikusaburo Kashima *Kashima*

(Oct. 8, 1948)

  

Senior Managing Director

-Jul. 1999Director General of Price Bureau of Economic Planning Agency;
    -Jun. 2003  

Vice Chairman, Information Technology Promotion Agency;

-Jun. 2004

Joined the Company as an Executive Counselor;

    -Jun. 2005  Director of the Company / Deputy Chief of Overseas Operations;Company;
    -Apr. 2007  Managing Director of the Company / in charge of Legal Affairs, Corporate Risk Management, Corporate Information Security,and Corporate Business Ethics, and Corporate International Affairs;Ethics;
    -Apr. 2009  

In charge of Intellectual Property.Property;

-Apr. 2010Senior Managing Director of the Company.

Junji Nomura*

(Apr. 10, 1947)

Senior Managing Director
-Jun. 2006Executive Vice President, Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd;
-Jun. 2009Managing Director of the Company;
-Feb. 2010In charge of Technology;
-Apr. 2010Senior Managing Director of the Company / in charge of Corporate Division for Promoting Energy Solutions Business.

Yoshihiko Yamada*

(May 11, 1951)

Managing Director
-Jun. 2004Executive Officer of the Company;
-Apr. 2007Managing Executive Officer of the Company;
-Apr. 2010In charge of Industrial Sales;
-Jun. 2010Managing Director of the Company.
   

Kazunori Takami *Takami*

(Jun. 12, 1954)

  

Managing Director

-Jun. 2002

Director, Matsushita Refrigeration Company;

-Apr. 2005In charge of Corporate Marketing Division for National Brand Home Appliances and Corporate Marketing Division for National Brand Wellness Products / Director, Corporate Marketing Division for National Brand Home Appliances;
    -Apr. 2006  

Executive Officer of the Company;

    -Apr. 2008  

Managing Executive Officer of the Company;

    -Apr. 2009  President, Home Appliances Company / in charge of Lighting Company;
    -Jun. 2009  

Managing Director of the Company.

Junji Nomura *

(Apr. 10, 1947)

Managing Director

-Feb. 2002

Director, Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.;

-Dec. 2003Executive Senior Managing Director, Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.;
-Jun. 2005

Senior Managing Director, Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.;

-Jun. 2006

Executive Vice President, Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd.;

-Jun. 2009

Managing Director of the Company / in charge of Special Task.

Ikuo Uno

(Jan. 4, 1935)

Director

-Apr. 1997

President, Nippon Life Insurance Company;

-Apr. 2005

Chairman, Nippon Life Insurance Company;

-Jun. 2005

Director of the Company.


- 5355 -

 

   

        Name          


  

Position and responsibilities in the Company, and brief personal records


   (Date of birth)       
   

Masayuki Oku

(Dec. 2, 1944)

Director

-Jun. 2005President, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation / Chairman, Board of Directors of Mitsui Sumitomo Finance Group;
-Jun. 2008Director of the Company.

Masashi Makino *

(Aug. 20, 1948)

Director

-Apr.2003Director, Corporate Manufacturing Innovation Division;
-Jun. 2003Executive Officer of the Company;
-Apr. 2009In charge of Manufacturing Innovation, Facility Management, Quality Administration, FF Customer Support & Management, Environmental Affairs and Recycling Business Promotion;
-Jun. 2009Director of the Company.

Makoto Uenoyama *Uenoyama*

(Feb. 14, 1953)

  

Managing Director

-Jun. 2003General Manager, Corporate Accounting Group;
    -Apr. 2006  Executive Officer of the Company;
    -Apr. 2007  In charge of Accounting and Finance;
    -Jun. 2007  Director of the Company;
    -Apr. 2009  In charge of Information Systems.Systems;
-Apr. 2010Managing Director of the Company.
   

Masatoshi Harada *Harada*

(Feb. 9, 1955)

  

Managing Director

-Jun. 2003In charge of General Affairs and Social Relations;
    -Apr. 2008  Executive Officer of the Company / in charge of Personnel, General Affairs and Social Relations;
    -Jun. 2008  Director of the Company;
-Apr. 2010Managing Director of the Company.
   

Ikuo Uno

(Jan. 4, 1935)

Director
-Apr. 2005Chairman, Nippon Life Insurance Company;
-Jun. 2005Director of the Company.

Masayuki Oku

(Dec. 2, 1944)

Director
-Jun. 2005President, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation / Chairman, Board of Directors of Mitsui Sumitomo Finance Group;
-Jun. 2008Director of the Company.

Masashi Makino*

(Aug. 20, 1948)

Director
-Jun. 2003Executive Officer of the Company;
-Apr. 2009In charge of Manufacturing Innovation, Facility Management, Quality Administration, FF Customer Support & Management and Environmental Affairs;
-Jun. 2009Director of the Company.

Takashi Toyama*

(Sep. 28, 1955)

Director
-Apr. 2007Executive Officer of the Company;
-Jan. 2010President, System Networks Company / President, Panasonic System Networks Co., Ltd.;
-Jun. 2010Director of the Company.
Masaharu Matsushita


(Sep. 17, 1912)

  

Honorary Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Advisor, Member of the Board

    -Oct. 1947  Director of the Company;
-Aug. 1949Executive Vice President of the Company;
    -Jan. 1961  President of the Company;
    -Feb. 1977  Chairman, the Board of Directors;
    -Jun. 2000  Honorary Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Advisor, Member of the Board.
   

Kenichi Hamada

(May 2, 1947)

  

Senior Corporate Auditor

-Jun. 1999Director of Kyushu Matsushita Electric Co., Ltd. / in charge of accounting;
-Jun. 2001Managing Director, Kyushu Matsushita Electric Co., Ltd.;
-Jun. 2003Senior Managing Director, Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd.;
    -Jun. 2005  Vice President, Panasonic Communications Co., Ltd.;
    -Jun. 2007  Senior Corporate Auditor of the Company.
   

Masahiro Seyama

(Jul.18,Jul. 18, 1949)

  

Senior Corporate Auditor

-Feb. 2001President, Panasonic do Brasil Ltda;
    -Jun. 2005  Director, Latin American operations / President, Panasonic Corporation of Latin America;
    -Jun. 2008  Senior Corporate Auditor of the Company.
   

Yasuo Yoshino

(Oct. 5, 1939)

  

Corporate Auditor

    -Jul. 2001  Chairman, Sumitomo Life Insurance Company;
   -Jun. 2003  Corporate Auditor of the Company;
    -Jul. 2007  Advisory of Sumitomo Life Insurance Company.


- 5456 -

 

   

        Name          


  

Position and responsibilities in the Company, and brief personal records


   (Date of birth)       
   

Ikuo Hata

Corporate Auditor

(Aug. 6, 1931)

  -Apr. 1992

President, Osaka District Court;

Corporate Auditor
    -Sep. 1995  

Registered as Attorney at law (member of Osaka Bar Association);

-Jun. 1998

Deputy Director, Japan Association of Arbitrators;

    -Jul. 2001  Member of Supreme Court’s Building-Related Litigation Commission;
    -Jun. 2004  

Corporate Auditor of the Company.

   

Hiroyuki Takahashi

(Mar. 1, 1937)

  

Corporate Auditor

-Jun. 1997

Corporate Auditor, Mitsui & Co., Ltd.;

    -Oct. 2000  Executive Managing Director and Secretary-General, Japan Corporate Auditors Association;
    -Jun. 2006  

Corporate Auditor of the Company.

 

Asterisks (*) denote members of the Board of Directors who concurrently serve as Executive Officers, pursuant to the Executive Officer System which was introduced to facilitate the development of optimum corporate strategies that integrate the Panasonic Group’s comprehensive strengths.

 

Ikuo Uno and Masayuki Oku are outside directors as stipulated in the Company Law.

 

Yasuo Yoshino, Ikuo Hata and Hiroyuki Takahashi are outside corporate auditors as stipulated in the Company Law.

 

All two (2) outside directors and three (3) outside corporate auditors were notified to the Japanese stock exchanges as “independent directors/corporate auditors” pursuant to the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges.

There are no family relationships among any Directors or Corporate Auditors except as described below:

 

Masayuki Matsushita, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors is the son of Masaharu Matsushita, Honorary Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Advisor.Advisor, Member of the Board.

 

The following table shows information about Panasonic’s Executive Officers as of June 25, 2009,2010, including their positions and responsibilities.

 

   

          Name            


  

Positions and responsibilities


   

Yoshihiko Yamada

Managing Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Management Division for North America /

Chairman, Panasonic Corporation of North America

Kazuhiro Tsuga

  

Managing Executive Officer

President, Automotive Systems Company

   

Takumi Kajisha

  

Managing Executive Officer

In charge of Corporate Communications

   

Ikuo Miyamoto

  

Managing Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Management Division for Asia and Oceania /

President,Managing Director, Panasonic Asia Pacific Pte. Ltd.

   

Yoshiiku Miyata

  

Managing Executive Officer

Senior Vice President, AVC Networks Company /

Director, Visual Products and Display Devices Business Group

   

Yutaka Takehana

  

Managing Executive Officer

Representative in Kansai / in charge of Corporate Risk Management and Corporate Information Security

Hideo Kawasaki

Executive Officer

President, Semiconductor Company


- 5557 -

 

   

Name


  

Positions and responsibilities


Toshiaki KobayashiManaging Executive Officer
President, Panasonic Electronic Devices Co., Ltd.
Masaaki FujitaExecutive Officer
In charge of Global Procurement and Global Logistics
Yoshihisa FukushimaExecutive Officer
In charge of Intellectual Property
Naoto NoguchiExecutive Officer
President, Energy Company
Osamu WakiExecutive Officer
President, Panasonic Mobile Communications Co., Ltd.
Joseph TaylorExecutive Officer
Chairman & CEO, Panasonic Corporation of North America
Jun IshiiExecutive Officer
President, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Co., Ltd.
Toshiro KisakaExecutive Officer
Director, Corporate Management Division for China and Northeast Asia /
Chairman, Panasonic Corporation of China
Masato TomitaExecutive Officer
Director, Corporate Management Division for CIS, the Middle East & Africa
Hideaki KawaiExecutive Officer
General Manager, Corporate Finance & IR Group /
In charge of Global Finance Administration Center
Takeshi UenoyamaExecutive Officer
In charge of Device Technology
Shiro NishiguchiExecutive Officer
Director, Corporate Marketing Division for Digital AVC Products, Consumer Products Marketing
Yoshiyuki MiyabeExecutive Officer
In charge of Digital Network & Software Technology
Laurent AbadieExecutive Officer

Director, Corporate Management Division for Europe /

Chairman & CEO, Panasonic Europe Ltd.

Yorihisa ShiokawaExecutive Officer

COO, Panasonic Europe Ltd. /

Managing Director, Panasonic Marketing Europe GmbH

Yoshio ItoExecutive Officer
President, Lighting Company
Hidetoshi Osawa

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Communications Division


- 58 -

Name


  

Positions and responsibilities


   

Shigeru Omori

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Industrial Marketing and Sales Division

Masaaki Fujita

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Engineering Quality Administration Division

Yoshihisa Fukushima

Executive Officer

In charge of Intellectual Property

Naoto Noguchi

Executive Officer

President, Energy Company

Osamu Waki

Executive Officer

President, Panasonic Mobile Communications Co., Ltd.

Toshiaki Kobayashi

Executive Officer

President, Panasonic Electronic Devices Co., Ltd.

Joseph Taylor

Executive Officer

COO, Panasonic Corporation of North America

Takashi Toyama

Executive Officer

President, System Solutions Company

Jun Ishii

Executive Officer

Director, Home Appliances and Wellness Products Marketing Division

President, Panasonic Consumer Marketing Co., Ltd.

Toshiro Kisaka

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Management Division for China and Northeast Asia /

Chairman, Panasonic Corporation of China

Masato Tomita

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Management Division for CIS, the Middle East and Africa

Hideaki Kawai

Executive Officer

General Manager, Corporate Finance & IR Group /

In charge of Financial Operations Center

Takeshi Uenoyama

Executive Officer

In charge of Device and Environmental Technology

Koji Itazaki

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Procurement Division and Corporate Global Logistics Division

Shiro Nishiguchi

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Marketing Division for Digital AVC Products

Yoshiyuki Miyabe

Executive Officer

In charge of Digital Network & Software Technology

Laurent Abadie

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Management Division for Europe /

Chairman, Panasonic Europe Ltd.


- 56 -

      Name      


Positions and responsibilities


Yoshihisa Shiokawa

Executive Officer

COO, Panasonic Europe Ltd. / President, Panasonic Marketing Europe GmbH

Yoshio Ito

Executive Officer

President, Lighting Company

Hidetoshi Osawa

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Communications Division

Yoshiaki Nakagawa

  

Executive Officer

General Manager, Corporate Planning Group

   

Mamoru Yoshida

  

Executive Officer

Senior Vice President, AVC Networks Company /

Director, Network Business Group

   

Tsuyoshi Nomura

  

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Manufacturing Innovation Division

Nobuharu Akamine

Executive Officer

Senior Vice President, System Networks Company and Executive Senior Vice President, Panasonic System Networks Co., Ltd.

Kuniaki Okahara

Executive Officer

Director, Corporate Engineering Quality Administration Division

Yukio Nakashima

Executive Officer

Director, Home Appliances and Wellness Products Marketing Division, Consumer Products Marketing

 

(Directors who concurrently serve as Executive Officers are not included in the above list.)

 

B.Compensation

 

The aggregate amounts of remunerations, including equity compensation such as stock options, bonuses, and other financial benefits given in consideration of performance of duties (collectively, the “remunerations”), paid by the Company during fiscal 20092010 to all 2021 Directors (other than Outside Directors) and all 62 Corporate Auditors (other than Outside Corporate Auditors) for services in all capacities were 966931 million yen and 8863 million yen, respectively. The amounts of remunerations for 2 Outside Directors and 3 Outside Corporate Auditors were 26 million yen and 39 million yen, respectively, in fiscal 2010.

The amounts of remunerations for Mr. Kunio Nakamura, Chairman of the Board of Director, and Mr. Fumio Ohtsubo, President and Director, were 122 million yen and 105 million yen, respectively, in fiscal 2010.

 

Under the Company Law, the maximum amounts of remunerations of directors and corporate auditors of Japanese joint stock corporations, except for a “joint stock corporation with specified committees,” must be approved at a general meeting of shareholders if the articles of incorporation of the company do not provide items about remunerations of directors and corporate auditors. Companies must also obtain the approval at a general meeting of shareholders to change such maximum amounts. Therefore, the remuneration of the directors and corporate auditors are subject to the approval of shareholders if the articles of incorporation of the company do not prescribe such items. The maximum total amounts of remunerations for Directors and Corporate Auditors of the Company is therefore determined by a resolution at a general meeting of shareholders, because the Articles of Incorporation of the Company do not provide such items, and thus remunerations of Directors and Corporate Auditors of the Company are under the oversight of shareholders. The remuneration amount for each Director is determined by the Company’s Representative Directors who are delegated to do so by the Board of Directors, and the amount of remuneration for each Corporate Auditor is determined upon discussions amongst Corporate Auditors.

 

The amounts of the remuneration and bonuses of Directors are linked to individual performance based on Capital Cost Management (CCM), sales and CO2 emissions (an environmental management indicator). By implementing this new performance evaluation criteria based on shareholder interests, the Company intends to promote continuous growth and enhance profitability on a long-term basis for the Panasonic Group as a whole. In order to realize a remuneration system with a high level of transparency and acceptability, the Company terminated its retirement benefits for Directors and Corporate Auditors in June 2006. (For details of the Company’s stock option plans for Board members and select senior executives, see Section E of this Item 6.)


- 5759 -

 

C.Board Practices

 

For information on the Company’s Directors and Corporate Auditors, see Section A of this Item 6.

 

The rights of ADR holders, including their rights relating to corporate governance practices, are governed by the Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement dated as of December 11, 2000, as amended by Amendment No.1 dated as of October 1, 2008 (incorporated by reference to the Registration Statements on Form F-6 (File Nos. 333-12694 and 333-133099) filed on October 4, 2000 and September 30, 2008, respectively).

 

D.Employees

 

The following table lists the number of full-time employees of Panasonic as of March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007.2008.

 

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

  2008

Employees:

                  

Domestic

  132,144  135,563  145,418  152,853  132,144  135,563

Overseas

  160,106  170,265  183,227  231,733  160,106  170,265
  
  
  
  
  
  

Total

  292,250  305,828  328,645  384,586  292,250  305,828
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

Most regular Company employees in Japan, except management personnel, are members of unions that belong to the Panasonic Workers Unions. As is customary in Japan, the Company negotiates annually with the unions and revises annual wage. The annual bonuses of unionized employees are determined in consideration of the Company’s performance of the previous year. The Company also renews the terms and conditions of labor contracts, other than those relating to wages and bonuses, every other year. In recent years, the Company has introduced in Japan new comprehensive employment and personnel systems to satisfy the diverse needs of employees.

 

Such systems include an individual performance-oriented annual salary system, a regional-based employee remuneration system and an alternative payment system under which employees can receive retirement and fringe benefits up front in addition to their semiannual bonuses. During the last few years, the Company and its several subsidiaries have also implemented special early retirement programs for employees who wished to pursue careers outside the Company. For a quarter century, Panasonic has not experienced any major labor strikes or disputes. The Company considers its labor relations to be excellent.

 

E.Share Ownership

 

(1)The following table lists the number of shares owned by the Directors and Corporate Auditors of the Company as of June 25, 2009.2010. The total is 17,892,37617,941,334 shares constituting 0.86%0.87% of all issued and outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock, excluding its own stock.

 

    Name    


    

        Position        


  

Number of Panasonic Shares
Owned as of June 25, 20092010


Kunio Nakamura    Chairman of the Board of Directors  72,20081,000
Masayuki Matsushita    Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors  7,913,000
Fumio Ohtsubo    President and Director  47,200
Susumu KoikeExecutive Vice President and Director37,362
Koshi KitadaiExecutive Vice President and Director28,44156,000
Toshihiro Sakamoto    Executive Vice President and Director  30,47835,878
Takahiro Mori    Executive Vice President and Director  25,36032,460
Yasuo Katsura    Senior ManagingExecutive Vice President and Director  20,31623,816
Hitoshi Otsuki    Senior Managing Director  13,50015,200
Ken Morita    Senior Managing Director  13,35019,550
Ikusaburo KashimaSenior Managing Director15,100
Junji NomuraSenior Managing Director15,900
Yoshihiko Yamada    Managing Director  11,50021,161
Kazunori Takami    Managing Director  12,10014,700
Junji NomuraMakoto Uenoyama    Managing Director  022,800

Masatoshi Harada

Managing Director15,100
Ikuo Uno    Director  0
Masayuki Oku    Director  1,050
Masashi Makino    Director  12,400
Makoto UenoyamaTakashi Toyama    Director  18,900
Masatoshi HaradaDirector10,70016,400
Masaharu Matsushita    Honorary Chairman of the Board of Directors and Executive Advisor, Member of the Board  9,598,000
Kenichi Hamada    Senior Corporate Auditor  10,55413,154
Masahiro Seyama    Senior Corporate Auditor  12,96515,665
Yasuo Yoshino    Corporate Auditor  3,000
Ikuo Hata    Corporate Auditor  0
Hiroyuki Takahashi    Corporate Auditor  0
        

Total

       17,892,37617,941,334
        


- 5860 -

 

(2)The full-time employees of the Company and its major subsidiaries in Japan are eligible to participate in the Panasonic Corporation Employee Shareholding Association, whereby participating employees contribute a portion of their salaries to the Association and the Association purchases shares of the Company’s common stock on their behalf. The Company provides the subsidy in proportion to the number of points that each employee selects to exchange within certain limitations under the “Cafeteria Plan,” the Company’s flexible benefit plan. Under the Cafeteria Plan, each employee is allotted a certain number of points based on prescribed standards, which he or she may exchange for various benefits, including the Company’s subsidy for contributions to the Association, subsidies for rental housing, subsidies for asset building savings, educational assistance, hotel accommodations, etc. As of March 31, 2009,2010, the Association owned 37,15140,192 thousand shares of the Company’s common stock constituting 1.79%1.94% of all issued and outstanding shares of the Company’s common stock, excluding treasury stock.

 

Item 7.Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions

 

A.Major Shareholders

 

(1)To the knowledge of the Company, no shareholders beneficially own more than five percent of the Company’s common stock, which is the only class of stock it has issued.

 

The shareholders that owned more than five percent of the Company’s common stock on the register of shareholders as of March 31, 20092010 were The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd. (trust account) and Moxley & Co., which are securities processing services companies. The Company understands that these shareholders are not the beneficial owners of the Company’s common stock, but the Company does not have available further information concerning such beneficial ownership by these shareholders. The ten largest shareholders of record and their share holdings as of the end of fiscal 2009March 31, 2010 are as follows:


- 59 -

 

Name


  Share ownership
(in thousands of shares)


  Percentage of
total issued
shares


  Share ownership
(in thousands of  shares)

  Percentage of
total issued
shares

The Master Trust Bank of Japan, Ltd. (trust account)

  132,211              6.38%      112,992              5.45%    

Moxley & Co.

  122,865              5.93         103,982              5.02       

Japan Trustee Services Bank, Ltd. (trust account)

  118,812              5.73         95,565              4.61       

Japan Trustee Services Bank, Ltd. (trust account 4G)

  113,446              5.47       

Nippon Life Insurance Company

  67,000              3.23         67,000              3.23       

Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation

  57,024              2.75         57,024              2.75       

Panasonic Employee Shareholding Association

  37,151              1.79         40,192              1.94       

State Street Bank and Trust Co.

  33,827              1.63       

Mitsui Sumitomo Insurance Co., Ltd.

  35,105              1.69         32,605              1.57       

State Street Bank and Trust Co.

  33,399              1.61       

Sumitomo Life Insurance Co.

  31,382              1.51         31,382              1.51       

Daikin Industries, Ltd.

  28,605              1.38       

 

 *Holdings of less than 1,000 shares have been omitted.
 *Percentage of total issued shares is calculated excluding the Company’s own shares (382,411,876)(382,448,008).


- 61 -

 

(2)As of March 31, 2009,2010, approximately 13.80%15.16% of the Company’s common stock was owned by 172154 United States shareholders, including the ADR Depositary’s nominee, Moxley & Co., considered as one shareholder of record, owning approximately 5.93%5.02% of the total common stock.

 

(3)Panasonic is not, directly or indirectly, owned or controlled by other corporations, by the Japanese government or any foreign government or by any natural or legal person or persons severally or jointly.

 

(4)As far as is known to the Company, there is no arrangement, the operation of which may at a subsequent date result in a change in control of Panasonic.

 

 

B.Related Party Transactions

 

In the ordinary course of the Company’s business, it has entered into transactions with certain of its related parties, (as described in Item 7.B of Form 20-F), but none of such transactions that were entered into during the year ended March 31, 20092010 was material to the Company or to any such related party.

 

There are 232 associated companies under the equity method and the Company had 0.3 billion yen of loan receivable from an associated company under the equity method as of March 31, 2010.

Tokyo Interbank Offered Rate at the end of quarterly period plus 0.75% is applied for this loan receivable and revises quarterly. The Company has started to offer this loan since January 2009 as one of the major shareholders.

 

C.Interests of Experts and Counsel

 

Not applicable

 

 

Item 8.Financial Information

 

A.Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

 

(1)Consolidated Statements

 

Refer to Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (see Item 18).

 

Finished goods and materials sent out of Japan are mainly bound for consolidated subsidiaries of the Panasonic Group, and are not, therefore, recorded as exports on a consolidated basis. For this reason, the proportion of exports to total net sales is not significant.

 

(2)Legal Proceedings

 

There are some legal actions and administrative investigations against Panasonic. Management is of the opinion that damages, based on the information currently available, if any, resulting from these actions will not have a material effect on Panasonic’s results of operations or financial position.


- 6062 -

 

(3)Dividend Policy

 

Since its establishment, Panasonic has managed its businesses under the concept that returning profits to shareholders is one of its most important policies. Based onIn accordance with this basic policy, along with the implementation of a mid-term growth strategy since fiscal 2005,stance, the Company has implemented a proactive and comprehensive profit return to shareholders through dividend payments and own share repurchases, upon careful consideration of its consolidated business performance.

shareholders. From the perspective of return on the capital investment made by shareholders, Panasonic, in principle, distributes profits to shareholders based on its business performance and is aiming for stable and continuous growth in dividends, targeting a dividend payout ratio of between 30% and 40% with respect to consolidated net income. Regarding share buybacks, the Company is repurchasing its own shares as it considers appropriate, taking comprehensively into consideration strategic investments and the Company’s financial condition, with the aim of increasing shareholder value per share and return on capital.

 

The Company regrettably recorded a net loss for the second year running in fiscal 2010. In order to quickly improve its performance and achieve growth in the years ahead, Panasonic is working urgently to strengthen its management foundations from a business and financial perspective. In light of the Company’s circumstances and due to the emphasis it puts on stable returns to shareholders, Panasonic paid an interim dividend of 22.505 yen per share on November 28, 2008. Regrettably, while the Company puts emphasis on returning profits to shareholders, it30, 2009 and paid a year-end dividend of 7.505 yen per share due mainly to the significant deterioration of consolidated financial results due to the global recession and shrinking demand,on May 31, 2010, making a total annual cash dividend of 30.0010 yen per share. In fiscal 2009,2010, the Company repurchased some ofdid not repurchase its own shares, atexcept for acquiring fractions of a cost of approximately 70 billion yen.trading unit and other minor transactions. Although Panasonic expects severe business conditions to continue, the Company will strive to improve its performance as soon as possible and distribute earnings to shareholders.

 

(4)Initiatives to Maximize Shareholder Value

 

On April 28, 2005, the Board of Directors resolved to adopt a policy related to a Large-scale Purchase of the Company’s shares called the Enhancement of Shareholder Value (ESV) Plan. The ESV Plan has been approved at every Board of Directors meeting since then. On May 15, 2009,7, 2010, the Board of Directors resolved to continue the ESV Plan.

 

With respect to a Large-scale Purchaser who intends to acquire 20% or more of all voting rights of the Company, this policy requires that (i) a Large-scale Purchaser provides sufficient information, such as its outline, purposes or conditions, the basis for determination of the purchase price and funds for purchase, and management policies and business plans which the Large-scale Purchaser intends to adopt after the completion of the Large-scale Purchase, to the Board of Directors before a Large-scale Purchase is to be conducted and (ii) after all required information is provided, the Board of Directors should be allowed a sufficient period of time (a sixty-day period or a ninety-day period) for consideration.

 

The Board of Directors intends to assess and examine any proposed Large-scale Purchase after the information on such purchase is provided, and subsequently to disclose the opinion of the Board of Directors and any other information needed to assist shareholders in making their decisions. The Board of Directors may negotiate with the Large-scale Purchaser regarding purchase conditions or suggest alternative plans to shareholders, if it is deemed necessary.

 

If a Large-scale Purchaser does not comply with the rules laid out in the ESV Plan, the Company’s Board of Directors may take countermeasures against the Large-scale Purchaser to protect the interests of all shareholders. Countermeasures include the implementation of stock splits, issuance of stock acquisition rights (including allotment of share options without contribution) or any other measures that the Board of Directors is permitted to take under the Company Law in Japan, other laws and the Company’s Articles of Incorporation.

 

If a Large-scale Purchaser complies with the Large-scale Purchase rules, the Board of Directors does not intend to prevent the Large-scale Purchase at its own discretion, unless it is clear that such Large-scale Purchase will cause irreparable damage or loss to the Company.

 

The Board of Directors will make decisions relating to countermeasures by referring to advice from outside professionals, such as lawyers and financial advisers, and fully respect the opinions of outside directors and statutory corporate auditors.


- 61 -

 

When invoking the aforementioned countermeasures, if the Company’s Board of Directors decides that it is appropriate to confirm the will of shareholders from the perspective of the interest of all shareholders, a general meeting of shareholders will be held. If the Company’sCompanys Board of Directors decides to hold a general meeting of shareholders, it will give notice to that effect as well as the reasons for such a meeting at that time.


- 63 -

 

The Board of Directors will adopt specific countermeasures which it deems appropriate at that time. If the Board of Directors elects to make a stock split for shareholders as of a certain record date, the maximum ratio of the stock split shall be five-for-one. If the Board of Directors elects to issue stock acquisition rights to shareholders, the Company will issue one stock acquisition right for every share held by shareholders on a specified record date. One share shall be issued on the exercise of each stock acquisition right.

 

If the Board of Directors elects to issue stock acquisition rights as a countermeasure, it may determine the exercise period and exercise conditions of the stock acquisition rights as well as the conditions that allow the Company to acquire share options by swapping Company stock with a party other than the Large-scale Purchaser, in consideration of the effectiveness thereof as a countermeasure, such as the condition that shareholders do not belong to a specific group of shareholders including a Large-scale Purchaser, as well as the conditions that allow the Company to acquire share options by swapping Company stock with a party other than the Large-scale Purchaser. The Company recognizes that the aforementioned countermeasures may cause damage or loss, economic or otherwise, to a prospective Large-scale Purchaser who does not comply with the Large-scale Purchase Rules.

 

The Company does not anticipate that taking such countermeasures will cause shareholders, other than the Largescale Purchaser, economic damage or loss of any rights. However, in the event that the Board of Directors determines to take a specific countermeasure, the Board of Directors will disclose such countermeasure in a timely and appropriate manner, pursuant to relevant laws and stock exchange regulations.

The termterms of office forof all Directors isare for one year, and Directorsthey are elected at the Ordinary General Meetingan annual general meeting of Shareholders heldshareholders in June everyof each year. The Company’sAll of the two Outside Directors and three Outside Corporate Auditors are notified to the Japanese stock exchanges as “independent directors/corporate auditors” pursuant to the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges and are likely to have any conflict of interests with our shareholders. Panasonic’s Board of Directors intends to review the Large-scale Purchase Rules, as necessary, for reasons including amendments to applicable legislation. Any such review would be conducted strictly in the interests of all shareholders.

 

For further details about the ESV Plan, please see the press release issued on May 15, 20097, 2010 at the Company’s Web site:

http://panasonic.co.jp/corp/news/official.data/data.dir/en090515-9/en090515-9-1.pdf

en100507-8/en100507-8-1.pdf

 

B.Significant Changes

 

No significant changes have occurred since the date of the annual financial statements included in this annual report.

 

Item 9.The Offer and Listing

 

A.Offer and Listing Details

 

The primary market for the Company’s common stock (Common Stock) is the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE). The Common Stock is traded on the First Section of the TSE and is also listed on two other stock exchanges (Osaka and Nagoya) in Japan. In the United States, the Company’s American Depositary Shares (ADSs) have been listed on and traded in the NYSE in the form of American Depositary Receipts (ADRs). There may from time to time be a differential between the Common Stock’s price on exchanges outside the United States and the market price of ADSs in the United States.

 

Panasonic delisted its shares from Amsterdam Stock Exchange in June 2006 and Frankfurt Stock Exchange in August 2006.

 

ADRs were originally issued pursuant to a Deposit Agreement dated as of April 28, 1970, as amended from time to time (Deposit Agreement), among the Company, the Depositary for ADRs, and the holders of ADRs. The current Depositary for ADRs is JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., which succeeded to this business from Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York upon their merger. Effective December 11, 2000, Panasonic again revised its ADR Deposit Agreement and executed a 10:1 ADS ratio change. As a result, one ADS now represents one share of Common Stock. ADRs evidence ADSs that represent the underlying Common Stock deposited under the Deposit Agreement with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation, as agent of the Depositary.


- 6264 -

 

The following table sets forth for the periods indicated the reported high and low prices of the Company’s Common Stock on the TSE, and the reported high and low composite prices of the Company’s ADSs on the NYSE:

 

  Tokyo Stock Exchange

  New York Stock Exchange

  Tokyo Stock Exchange

  New York Stock Exchange

  Price per Share of
Common Stock (yen)


  Price per American
Depositary Share (dollars)*


  Price per Share of
Common Stock (yen)


  Price per American
Depositary Share (dollars)*


Fiscal Year ended March 31


      High    

      Low    

      High    

      Low    

      High    

      Low    

      High    

      Low    

2005

  1,694  1,372  16.17  12.45

2006

  2,650  1,485  22.68  14.19  2,650  1,485  22.68  14.19

2007

  2,870  2,080  25.14  17.70  2,870  2,080  25.14  17.70

2008

  2,585  1,912  22.59  16.63  2,585  1,912  22.59  16.63

2009

  2,515  1,000  24.38  10.60  2,515  1,000  24.38  10.60

2010

  1,585  1,062  17.19  10.77

2008

            

2009

            

1st quarter

  2,585  2,295  21.22  19.08  2,515  2,000  24.38  19.71

2nd quarter

  2,470  1,912  20.17  16.63  2,380  1,774  22.02  16.54

3rd quarter

  2,395  1,965  21.66  17.27  1,882  1,000  17.66  10.91

4th quarter

  2,380  1,960  22.59  18.23  1,322  1,016  13.74  10.60

2009

            

2010

            

1st quarter

  2,515  2,000  24.38  19.71  1,510  1,070  15.37  10.77

2nd quarter

  2,380  1,774  22.02  16.54  1,541  1,175  16.60  12.76

3rd quarter

  1,882  1,000  17.66  10.91  1,356  1,062  14.80  12.40

4th quarter

  1,322  1,016  13.74  10.60�� 1,585  1,228  17.19  13.72
  Tokyo Stock Exchange

  New York Stock Exchange

  Tokyo Stock Exchange

  New York Stock Exchange

  Price per Share of
Common Stock (yen)


  Price per American
Depositary Share (dollars)*


  Price per Share of
Common Stock (yen)

  Price per American
Depositary Share (dollars)*


Most recent 6 months


  High

  Low

  High

  Low

  High

  Low

  High

  Low

December 2008

  1,177  1,000  12.57  10.91

January 2009

  1,322  1,050  13.74  11.69

February 2009

  1,174  1,016  12.81  10.61

March 2009

  1,197  1,025  12.36  10.60

April 2009

  1,446  1,070  14.85  10.77

May 2009

  1,510  1,292  15.37  13.79

December 2009

  1,356  1,080  14.80  12.97

January 2010

  1,585  1,325  17.19  14.49

February 2010

  1,502  1,228  16.41  13.72

March 2010

  1,449  1,234  15.62  13.75

April 2010

  1,480  1,345  15.72  14.42

May 2010

  1,348  1,123  14.70  12.35

 

 *The prices of ADSs are based upon reports by the NYSE, with all fractional figures rounded up to the nearest two decimal points.


- 65 -

 

 

B.Plan of Distribution

 

Not applicable

 

 

C.Markets

 

See Section A of this Item 9.

 

D.Selling Shareholders

 

Not applicable

 

 

E.Dilution

 

Not applicable


- 63 -

 

F.Expenses of the Issue

 

Not applicable


- 66 -

 

 

Item 10.Additional Information

 

A.Share Capital

 

Not applicable

 

 

B.Memorandum and Articles of Association

 

Organization

 

The Company is a joint stock corporation(kabushiki kaisha)incorporated in Japan under the Company Law(kaishaho) of Japan (Company Law). The Company is registered in the Commercial Register(shogyo tokibo)maintained by the Moriguchi Branch Office of the Osaka Legal Affairs Bureau.

 

Objects and purposesPurposes

 

Article 3 of the Articles of Incorporation of the Company provides that its purpose is to engage in the following lines of business:

 

 1.manufacture and sale of electric machinery and equipment, communication and electronic equipment, as well as lighting equipment;

 

 2.manufacture and sale of gas, kerosene and kitchen equipment, as well as machinery and equipment for building and housing;

 

 3.manufacture and sale of machinery and equipment for office and transportation, as well as for sales activities;

 

 4.manufacture and sale of medical, health and hygienic equipment, apparatus and material;

 

 5.manufacture and sale of optical and precision machinery and equipment;

 

 6.manufacture and sale of batteries, battery-operated products, carbon and manganese and other chemical and metal products;

 

 7.manufacture and sale of air conditioning and anti-pollution equipment, as well as industrial machinery and equipment;

 

 8.manufacture and sale of other machinery and equipment;

 

 9.engineering and installation of machinery and equipment related to any of the preceding items as well as engineering and performance of and contracting for other construction work;

 

 10.production and sale of software;

 

 11.sale of iron and steel, nonferrous metals, minerals, oil, gas, ceramics, paper, pulp, rubber, leather, fibre and their products;

 

 12.sale of foods, beverages, liquor and other alcoholics, agricultural, livestock, dairy and marine produces, animal feed and their raw materials;


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 13.manufacture and sale of drugs, quasi-drugs, cosmetics, fertilizer, poisonous and deleterious substance and other chemical products;


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 14.manufacture and sale of buildings and other structures and components thereof;

 

 15.motion picture and musical entertainment business and promotion of sporting events;

 

 16.export and import of products, materials and software mentioned in each of the preceding items (other than item 9);

 

 17.providing repair and maintenance services for the products, goods and software mentioned in each of the preceding items for itself and on behalf of others;

 

 18.provision of information and communication services, and broadcasting business;

 

 19.provision of various services utilizing the Internet including Internet access and e-commerce;

 

 20.business related to publishing, printing, freight forwarding, security, maintenance of buildings, nursing care, dispatch of workers, general leasing, financing, non-life insurance agency and buying, selling, maintaining and leasing of real estate;

 

 21.investment in various businesses;

 

 22.accepting commission for investigations, research, development and consulting related to any of the preceding items; and

 

 23.all other business or businesses incidental or related to any of the preceding items.


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Directors

 

Each Director (other than an outside Director) has executive powers and duties to manage the affairs of the Company and each Representative Director, who is elected from among the Directors by the Board of Directors, has the statutory authority to represent the Company in all respects. Under the Company Law, the Directors must refrain from engaging in any business competing with the Company unless approved by the Board of Directors and any Director who has a special interest in the subject matter of a resolution to be taken by the Board of Directors cannot vote on such resolution. Under the Company Law, the maximum total amounts of remunerations must be approved at a general meeting of shareholders. The Company must also obtain the approval at a general meeting of shareholders to change such maximum amounts. Within such authorized amounts, the remuneration amount for each Director is determined by Representative Director who is delegated to do so by the Board of Directors, and the amount of remuneration for each Corporate Auditor is determined upon discussions amongst the Corporate Auditors.

 

Except as stated below, neither the Company Law nor the Company’s Articles of Incorporation make special provisions as to the Directors’ or Corporate Auditors’ power to vote in connection with their own compensation or retirement age, the borrowing power exercisable by a Representative Director (or a Director who is given power by a Representative Director to exercise such power), or requirements to hold any shares of Common Stock of the Company. Under the Company Law, the Company is required to obtain resolutions of the Board of Directors in specific circumstances, e.g. for a company to acquire or dispose of material assets; to borrow a substantial amount of money; to appoint or dismiss important employees andsuch as a manager; to establish, change or abolish material corporate organizations such as a branch office; to determine such material conditions for offering of corporate bonds as set forth in the ordinances of the Ministry of Justice; to establish and maintain the internal control system to secure legitimate performance of duties of Directors as set forth in the ordinances of the Ministry of Justice; and to exempt a Director or Corporate Auditor from the liability for his/her actions under Article 423, Paragraph 1 of the Company Law pursuant to Article 426, Paragraph 1 of the Company Law.

 

The Regulations of the Board of Directors of the Company require a resolution of the Board of Directors for the Company to borrow a large amount of money or to give a guarantee in a large amount. There is no statutory requirement as to what constitutes a “large” amount in these contexts. However, it has been the general practice of the Company’s Board of Directors to adopt a resolution for a borrowing in an amount not less than 10 billion yen or its equivalent.


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Common Stock

 

General

 

Except as otherwise stated, set forth below is information relating to the Company’s Common Stock, including brief summaries of the relevant provisions of the Company’sCompanys Articles of Incorporation and Share Handling Regulations, as currently in effect, and of the Company Law and related regulations.

 

Effective on January 5, 2009, a new central book-entry transfer system for listed shares of Japanese companies was established pursuant to the Law Concerning Book-Entry Transfer of Corporate Bonds, Shares etc. and regulations thereunder (collectively, the “Book-entry Transfer Law”), and this system is applied to the shares of Common Stock of the Company. Under this system, shares of all Japanese companies listed on any Japanese stock exchange are dematerialized, and shareholders of listed shares must have accounts at account management institutions to hold their shares unless such shareholder has an account at Japan Securities Depository Center, Inc. (“JASDEC”), the only institution that is designated by the relevant authorities as a clearing house under the Book-entry Transfer Law. “Account management institutions” are financial instruments business operators (i.e., securities companies), banks, trust companies and certain other financial institutions which meet the requirements prescribed by the Book-entry Transfer Law. Transfer of the shares of Common Stock of the Company is effected exclusively through entry in the records maintained by JASDEC and the account management institutions, and title to the shares passes to the transferee at the time when the transfer of the shares is recorded at the transferee’s account at an account management institution. The holder of an account at an account management institution is presumed to be the legal holder of the shares recorded in such account.


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Under the Company Law and the Book-entry Transfer Law, in order to assert shareholders’ rights to which shareholders as of record dates are entitled (such as the rights to vote at a general meeting of shareholders or receive dividends) against the Company, a shareholder must have its name and address registered in the Company’s register of shareholders. Under the central book-entry transfer system, shareholders shall notify the relevant account management institutions of certain information prescribed under the Book-entry Transfer Law and the Company’s Share Handling Regulations, including their names and addresses, and the registration on the register of shareholders is made upon receipt by the Company of necessary information from JASDEC (as described in “– Record date”). On the other hand, in order to assert, directly against the Company, shareholders’ rights to which shareholders are entitled regardless of record dates such as minority shareholders’ rights, including the right to propose a matter to be considered at a general meeting of shareholders, except forexcluding shareholders’ rights to request the Company to purchase or sell shares constituting less than a full unit (as described in “– Unit share system”), JASDEC shall, upon the shareholder’s request, issue a notice of certain information including the name and address of such shareholder to the Company. Thereafter, such shareholder is required to present the Company with a receipt of the request of the notice in accordance with the Company’s Share Handling Regulations. Under the Book-entry Transfer Law, the shareholder shall exercise such shareholders’ right within four weeks after the notice above has been given.

 

Non-resident shareholders are required to appoint a standing proxy in Japan or provide a mailing address in Japan. Each such shareholder must give notice of such standing proxy or mailing address to the relevant account management institution. Such notice will be forwarded to the Company through JASDEC. Japanese securities companies and commercial banks customarily act as standing proxies and provide related services for standard fees. Notices from the Company to non-resident shareholders are delivered to such standing proxies or mailing addresses.

 

The registered holder of deposited shares underlying the American Depositary Shares (ADSs) is the Depositary for the ADSs. Accordingly, holders of ADSs will not be able to directly assert shareholders’ rights against the Company.

 

Authorized capital

 

Article 6 of the Articles of Incorporation of the Company provides that the total number of shares authorized to be issued by the Company is four billion nine hundred and fifty million (4,950,000,000) shares.

 

As of March 31, 2009,2010, 2,453,053,497 shares of Common Stock were issued. All shares of Common Stock of the Company have no par value. All issued shares of the Company are fully-paid and non-assessable.


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Distribution of Surplus

 

Distribution of Surplus – General

 

Under the Company Law, dividends shall be paid by way of distribution of Surplus (“Surplus” is defined in “– Restriction on Distributions of Surplus”) in cash or in kind.

 

The Company may make distributions of Surplus to the shareholders any number of times per business year, subject to certain limitations described in “– Restriction on Distributions of Surplus.” Distributions of Surplus need, in principle, to be declared by a resolution of a general meeting of shareholders, but the Company may also authorize distributions of Surplus by a resolution of the Board of Directors as long as its non-consolidated annual financial statements for the last business year fairly present its assets and profit or loss, as required by ordinances of the Ministry of Justice.

 

Distributions of Surplus may be made in cash or in kind in proportion to the number of shares of Common Stock of the Company held by respective shareholders. A resolution of a general meeting of shareholders or the Board of Directors, as the case may be, authorizing a distribution of Surplus must specify the kind and aggregate book value of the assets to be distributed, the manner of allocation of such assets to shareholders, and the effective date of the distribution. If a distribution of Surplus is to be made in kind, the Company may, pursuant to a resolution of a general meeting of shareholders or the Board of Directors, as the case may be, grant a right to the shareholders to require the Company to make such distribution in cash instead of in kind. If no such right is granted to shareholders, the relevant distributionDistribution of Surplus must be approved by a special resolution of a general meeting of shareholders (see “Voting Rights” with respect to a “special resolution”).


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Under the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, year-end dividends and interim dividends may be distributed to shareholders appearing in the Company’s register of shareholders as of March 31 and September 30 each year respectively, in proportion to the number of shares of the Common Stock of the Company held by respective shareholders following approval by the general meeting of shareholders or the Board of Directors. The Company is not obliged to pay any dividends in cash which have not been received within three years from the commencement of payment thereof. In Japan, the ex-dividend date and the record date for dividends precede the date when the amount of the dividends to be paid is determined by the Company. The shares of common stock generally go ex-dividend on the thirdsecond business day prior to the record date for dividends.

 

Distribution of Surplus – Restriction on Distributions of Surplus

 

In making a distribution of Surplus, the Company must, until the sum of its additional paid-in capital and legal reserve reaches one-quarter of its stated capital, set aside to its additional paid-in capital and/or legal reserve an amount equal to one-tenth of the amount of Surplus so distributed.


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The amount of Surplus at any given time must be calculated in accordance with the following formula:

 

A + B + C + D – (E + F + G)

 

In the above formula:

 

“A”=   the total amount of other capital surplus and other retained earnings, each such amount being that appearing on the non-consolidated balance sheet as of the end of the last business year

 

“B”=   (if the Company has disposed of its treasury stock after the end of the last business year) the amount of the consideration for such treasury stock received by the Company less the book value thereof

 

“C”=   (if the Company has reduced its stated capital after the end of the last business year) the amount of such reduction less the portion thereof that has been transferred to additional paid-in capital or legal reserve (if any)

 

“D”=   (if the Company has reduced its additional paid-in capital or legal reserve after the end of the last business year) the amount of such reduction less the portion thereof that has been transferred to stated capital (if any)

 

“E”=   (if the Company has cancelled its treasury stock after the end of the last business year) the book value of such treasury stock

 

“F”=   (if the Company has distributed Surplus to its shareholders after the end of the last business year) the total book value of the Surplus so distributed

 

“G”=   certain other amounts set forth in ordinances of the Ministry of Justice, including (if the Company has reduced Surplus and thereby increased its stated capital, additional paid-in capital or legal reserve after the end of the last fiscal year) the amount of such reduction and (if the Company has distributed Surplus to the shareholders after the end of the last business year) the amount set aside from such Surplus to additional paid-in capital or legal reserve (if any) as required by ordinances of the Ministry of Justice.

 

The aggregate book value of Surplus to be distributed by the Company may not exceed a prescribed distributable amount (the “Distributable Amount”), as calculated on the effective date of such distribution. The Distributable Amount at any given time shall be equal to the amount of Surplus less the aggregate of the followings:

 

 (a)the book value of its treasury stock;

 

 (b)the amount of consideration for any of treasury stock disposed of by the Company after the end of the last business year; and

 

 (c)certain other amounts set forth in ordinances of the Ministry of Justice, including (if the sum of one-half of goodwill and the deferred assets exceeds the total of stated capital, additional paid-in capital and legal reserve, each such amount being that appearing on the non-consolidated balance sheet as of the end of the last business year) all or certain part of such exceeding amount as calculated in accordance with the ordinances of the Ministry of Justice.

 

The Company, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009,2010, elected to become a company with respect to which consolidated balance sheets should be considered in the calculation of the Distributable Amount(renketsurenketsu haito kisei tekiyo kaishakaisha)) as described below. If a company has become at its option a company with respect to which consolidated balance sheets should also be considered in the calculation of the Distributable Amount, a company shall, in calculating the Distributable Amount, further deduct from the amount of Surplus the excess amount, if any, of (x) the total amount of stockholders’ equity appearing on the non-consolidated balance sheet as of the end of the last business year and certain other amounts set forth by ordinances of the Ministry of Justice over (y) the total amount of stockholders’ equity and certain other amounts set forth by ordinances of the Ministry of Justice appearing on the consolidated balance sheet as of the end of the last business year.


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If the Company has prepared interim financial statements as described below, and if such interim financial statements have been approved by the boardBoard of directorsDirectors or, if so required by the Company Law, by a general meeting of shareholders, then the Distributable Amount must be adjusted to take into account the amount of profit or loss, and the amount of consideration for any of the treasury stock disposed of by the Company, during the period in respect of which such interim financial statements have been prepared. The Company may prepare non-consolidated interim financial statements consisting of a balance sheet as of any date subsequent to the end of the last business year and an income statement for the period from the first day of the current business year to the date of such balance sheet. Interim financial statements so prepared by the Company must be audited by the Corporate Auditors and the Accounting Auditor, as required by ordinances of the Ministry of Justice.


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Stock splits

 

The Company may at any time split shares in issue into a greater number of shares by resolution of the Board of Directors, and may in principle amend its Articles of Incorporation to increase the number of authorized shares to be issued in proportion to the relevant stock split pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors rather than a special shareholders resolution (as defined in “Voting Rights”) as is otherwise required for amending the Articles of Incorporation.

 

When a stock split is to be made, the Company must give public notice of the stock split, specifying the record date therefor, at least two weeks prior to such record date. Under the central book-entry transfer system operated by JASDEC, the Company must also give notice to JASDEC regarding a stock split at least two weeks prior to the relevant recordeffective date. On the effective date of the stock split, the number of shares recorded in all accounts held by the Company’s shareholders at account managing institutions or JASDEC will be increased in accordance with the applicable ratio.

 

Consolidation of shares

 

The Company may at any time consolidate shares in issue into a smaller number of shares by a special shareholders resolution (as defined in “–Voting Rights”). When a consolidation of shares is to be made, the Company must give public notice or notice to each shareholder at least two weeks prior to the effective date of the consolidation of shares. Under the central book-entry transfer system operated by JASDEC, the Company must also give notice to JASDEC regarding a consolidation of shares at least two weeks prior to the effective date of the consolidation of shares. On the effective date of the consolidation of shares, the number of shares recorded in all accounts held by the Company’s shareholders at account managing institutions or JASDEC will be decreased in accordance with the applicable ratio. The Company must disclose the reason for the consolidation of shares at the general meeting of shareholders.

 

General meeting of shareholders

 

The ordinary general meeting of shareholders of the Company for each fiscal year is normally held in June in each year. In addition, the Company may hold an extraordinary general meeting of shareholders whenever necessary by giving notice of convocation thereof at least two weeks prior to the date set for the meeting.

 

Notice of convocation of a shareholders’ meeting setting forth the place, time, purpose thereof and certain matters set forth in the Company Law and the ordinances of the Ministry of Justice, must be mailed to each shareholder having voting rights (or, in the case of a non-resident shareholder, to his or her standing proxy or mailing address in Japan) at least two weeks prior to the date set for the meeting. Under the Company Law, such notice may be given to shareholders by electronic means, subject to the consent of the relevant shareholders. The record date for exercising voting rights at the ordinary general meeting of shareholders is March 31 of each year.

 

Any shareholder or group of shareholders of the Company holding at least three percent of the total number of voting rights for a period of six months or more may require the convocation of a general meeting of shareholders for a particular purpose by showing such a purpose and reason for convocation to a Representative Director. Unless such shareholders’ meeting is convened promptly or a convocation notice of a meeting which is to be held not later than eight weeks from the day of such demand is dispatched, the requiring shareholder may, upon obtaining a court approval, convene such shareholders’ meeting.shareholders’meeting.


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Any shareholder or group of shareholders of the Company holding at least 300 voting rights or one percent of the total number of voting rights for a period of six months or more may propose a matter to be considered at a general meeting of shareholders by showing such matter to a Representative Director at least eight weeks prior to the date of such meeting.


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Under the Company Law, any of minimum percentages, time periods and number of voting rights necessary for exercising the minority shareholder rights described above may be decreased or shortened if the articles of incorporation of a joint stock corporation so provide.

 

Voting rights

 

So long as the Company maintains the unit share system (see “Item 10.B. Memorandum and Articles of Association –Common StockUnit share system” below; currently 100 shares constitute one unit) a holder of shares constituting one or more full units is entitled to one voting right per unit of shares subject to the limitations on voting rights set forth in the following two sentences. Any corporate or certain other entity, one-quarter or more of whose total voting rights are directly or indirectly owned by the Company, may not exercise its voting rights with respect to shares of Common Stock of the Company that it owns. In addition, the Company may not exercise its voting rights with respect to its shares that it owns. If the Company eliminates from its Articles of Incorporation the provisions relating to the unit of shares, holders of Common Stock will have one voting right for each share they hold. Except as otherwise provided by law or by the Articles of Incorporation, a resolution can be adopted at a general meeting of shareholders by a majority of the number of voting rights of all the shareholders entitled to exercise their voting rights represented at the meeting. The Company Law and the Company’s Articles of Incorporation provide, however, that the quorum for the election of Directors and Corporate Auditors shall not be less than one-third of the total number of voting rights of all the shareholders entitled to exercise their voting rights. The Company’s shareholders are not entitled to cumulative voting in the election of Directors. Shareholders may exercise their voting rights through proxies, provided that the proxies are also shareholders holding voting rights. The Company’s shareholders also may cast their votes in writing, or exercise their voting rights by electronic means pursuant to the method determined by the Board of Directors.

 

The Company Law and the Company’s Articles of Incorporation provide that in order to amend the Articles of Incorporation and in certain other instances, including:

 

 (1)acquisition of its own shares from a specific party other than its subsidiaries;

 

 (2)consolidation of shares;

 

 (3)any offering of new shares at a “specially favorable” price (or any offering of stock acquisition rights to acquire shares of capital stock, or bonds with stock acquisition rights at “specially favorable” conditions) to any persons other than shareholders;

 

 (4)the removal of a Corporate Auditor;

 

 (5)the exemption of liability of a Director, Corporate Auditor or Accounting Auditor to a certain extent set forth in the Company Law;

 

 (6)a reduction of stated capital with certain exceptions in which just a usual resolution of shareholders is required or a shareholders’ resolution is not required;

 

 (7)a distribution of in-kind dividends which meets certain qualifications;

 

 (8)dissolution, liquidation, merger, consolidation, or corporate split with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required;

 

 (9)the transfer of the whole or a material part of the business;


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 (10)the taking over of the whole of the business of any other corporation with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required; or

 

 (11)share exchange or share transfer for the purpose of establishing 100% parent-subsidiary relationships with certain exceptions in which a shareholders’ resolution is not required;

 

the quorum shall be one-third of the total voting rights of all the shareholders and the approval by at least two-thirds of the voting rights of all the shareholders entitled to exercise their voting rights represented at the meeting is required (the “special shareholders resolutions”).

 

Pursuant to the terms of the Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement relating to American Depositing Receipts (ADRs) evidencing ADSs, each ADS representing one share of Common Stock of the Company, as soon as practicable after receipt of notice of any meeting of shareholders of the Company, the Depositary (currently JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.) will mail to the record holders of ADRs a notice which will contain the information in the notice of the meeting. The record holders of ADRs on a date specified by the Depositary will be entitled to instruct the Depositary as to the exercise of the voting rights pertaining to the shares of Common Stock of the Company represented by their ADSs. The Depositary will endeavor, in so far as practicable, to vote the number of shares of Common Stock of the Company represented by such ADSs in accordance with such instructions. In the absence of such instructions, the Depositary has agreed to give a discretionary proxy to a person designated by the Company to vote in favor of any proposals or recommendations of the Company. However, such proxy may not be given with respect to any matter which the Company informs the Depositary that the Company does not wish such proxy given, or for any proposal that has, in the discretion of the Depositary, a materially adverse effect on the rights of shareholders of the Company.

 

Issue of additional shares

 

Holders of the Company’s shares of Common Stock have no pre-emptive rights under the Company Law. Authorized but unissued shares may be issued at such times and upon such terms as the Board of Directors determines, subject to the limitations as to the offering of new shares at a “specially favorable” price mentioned under Voting“Voting rights” above. In the case of an issuance or transfer of the Company’s shares of Common Stock or stock acquisition rights” above. by way of an allotment to a third party which would dilute the outstanding voting shares by 25% or more or change the controlling shareholder, in addition to a resolution of the Board of Directors, the approval of the shareholders or an affirmative opinion from a person independent of our management is generally required pursuant to the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges. The Board of Directors may, however, determine that shareholders shall be given subscription rights regarding a particular issue of new shares, in which case such rights must be given on uniform terms to all shareholders as at a record date at least two weeks prior to which public notice must be given. Each of the shareholders to whom such rights are given must also be given notice of the expiry thereof at least two weeks prior to the date on which such rights expire.

 

Subject to certain conditions, the Company may issue stock acquisition rights or bonds with stock acquisition rights by a resolution of the Board of Directors. Holders of stock acquisition rights may exercise their rights to acquire a certain number of shares within the exercise period as prescribed in the terms of their stock acquisition rights. Upon the exercise of stock acquisition rights, the Company will be obliged to issue the relevant number of new shares or alternatively to transfer the necessary number of treasury stock held by it. The Company may determine by a resolution of the Board of Directors at the time of offerings that a transfer of the stock acquisition rights shall require the approval of the Company. Whether the Company will determine such a matter in future stock acquisition rights offerings will depend upon the circumstances at the time of such offerings.

 

Liquidation rights

 

In the event of a liquidation of the Company, the assets remaining after payment of all debts and liquidation expenses and taxes will be distributed among shareholders in proportion to the respective numbers of shares of Common Stock held.


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Record date

 

As mentioned above (see “Item 10.B. Memorandum and Articles of Association –Common StockDistribution of Surplus – Distribution of Surplus – General”), March 31 is the record date for the Company’s year-end dividends. So long as the Company maintains the unit share system, the shareholders who are registered as the holders of one or more units of shares in the Company’s registers of shareholders at the end of each March 31 are entitled to exercise shareholders’ rights at the ordinary general meeting of shareholders with respect to the business year ending on such March 31. September 30 is the record date for interim dividends. In addition, the Company may set a record date for determining the shareholders entitled to other rights and for other purposes by giving at least two weeks’ prior public notice. Under the Book-entry Transfer Law, JASDEC is required to give the Company a notice of the names and addresses of the shareholders, the number of shares held by them and other relevant information as of each such record date, and the Company’s register of shareholders shall be updated accordingly.

 

The shares generally goes ex-dividends or ex-rights on Japanese stock exchanges on the thirdsecond business day prior to a record date (or if the record date is not a business day, the fourththird business day prior thereto), for the purpose of dividends or rights offerings.

 

Acquisition by the company of its common stock

 

Under the Company Law and the Company’s Articles of Incorporation, the Company may acquire its own shares of Common Stock (i) from a specific shareholder other than any of its subsidiaries (pursuant to a special shareholders resolution), (ii) from any of its subsidiaries (pursuant to a resolution of the Board of Directors), or (iii) by way of purchase on any Japanese stock exchange on which the Company’s shares of Common Stock are listed or by way of tender offer (as long as its non-consolidated annual financial statements and certain documents for the last business year fairly present its asset and profit or loss status, as required by ordinances of the Ministry of Justice) (in(in either case pursuant to an ordinary resolution of a general meeting of shareholders or a resolution of the Board of Directors). In the case of (i) above, any other shareholder may make a request to the Company that such other shareholder be included as a seller in the proposed purchase, provided that no such right will be available if the purchase price or any other consideration to be received by the relevant specific shareholder will not exceed the last trading price of the shares on the relevant stock exchange on the day immediately preceding the date on which the resolution mentioned in (ii)(i) above was adopted (or, if there is no trading in the shares on the stock exchange or if the stock exchange is not open on such day, the price at which the shares are first traded on such stock exchange thereafter).

 

Shares acquired by the Company may be held for any period or may be cancelled by a resolution of the Board of Directors. The Company may also transfer such shares to any person, subject to a resolution of the Board of Directors and to other requirements similar to those applicable to the issuance of new shares, as described in “Issue of additional shares and pre-emptive rights” above. The Company may also utilize its treasury stock for the purpose of transfer to any person upon exercise of stock acquisition rights or for the purpose of acquiring another company by way of merger, share exchange or corporate split through exchange of treasury stock for shares or assets of the acquired company.

 

Unit share system

 

The Articles of Incorporation of the Company provide that 100 shares constitute one unit of shares of Common Stock. Although the number of shares constituting one unit is included in the Articles of Incorporation, any amendment to the Articles of Incorporation reducing (but not increasing) the number of shares constituting one unit or eliminating the provisions for the unit of shares may be made by a resolution of the Board of Directors rather than by a special shareholders resolution, which is otherwise required for amending the Articles of Incorporation. The number of shares constituting one unit, however, cannot exceed 1,000. In May 2008, the Board of Directors resolved to amend the Articles of Incorporation of the Company, reducing the number of shares consisting one unit from 1,000 shares to 100 shares, with effect as from February 1, 2009.

 

Under the unit share system, shareholders shall have one voting right for each unit of shares that they hold. Any number of shares less than a full unit will carry no voting rights.

 

Under the central book-entry transfer system operated by JASDEC, shares constituting less than one unit are generally transferable. Under the rules of the Japanese stock exchanges, however, shares constituting less than one unit do not comprise a trading unit, except in limited circumstances, and accordingly may not be sold on the Japanese stock exchanges.


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A holder of shares constituting less than one unit may require the Company to purchase such shares at their market value in accordance with the provisions of the Share Handling Regulations of the Company. In addition, the Articles of Incorporation of the Company provide that a holder of shares constituting less than one unit may request the Company to sell to such holder such amount of shares which will, when added together with the shares constituting less than one unit held by such holder, constitute one unit of stock, in accordance with the provisions of the Share Handling Regulations of the Company. As prescribed in the Share Handling Regulations, such requests shall be made through an account management institution and JASDEC pursuant to the rules set by JASDEC, without going through the notification procedure required for the exercise of shareholders’ rights entitled regardless of record dates as described in “–General”.


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A holder who owns ADRs evidencing less than 100 ADSs will indirectly own less than one full unit of shares of Common Stock. Although, as discussed above, under the unit share system holders of less than one unit have the right to require the Company to purchase their shares or sell shares held by the Company to such holders, holders of ADRs evidencing ADSs that represent other than integral multiples of units are unable to withdraw the underlying shares of Common Stock representing less than one unit and, therefore, are unable, as a practical matter, to exercise the rights to require the Company to purchase such underlying shares or sell shares held by the Company to such holders. As a result, access to the Japanese markets by holders of ADRs through the withdrawal mechanism will not be available for dispositions of shares of Common Stock in lots less than one unit. The unit share system does not affect the transferability of ADSs, which may be transferred in lots of any size.

 

Sale by the Company of shares held by shareholders whose location is unknown

 

The Company is not required to send a notice to a shareholder if a notice to such shareholder fails to arrive at the registered address of the shareholder in the Company’s register of shareholders or at the address otherwise notified to the Company continuously for five years or more.

 

In addition, the Company may sell or otherwise dispose of shares of Common Stock for which the location of the shareholder is unknown. Generally, if (i) notices to a shareholder fail to arrive continuously for five years or more at the shareholder’s registered address in the Company’s register of shareholders or at the address otherwise notified to the Company, and (ii) the shareholder fails to receive distribution of Surplus on the shares continuously for five years or more at the address registered in the Company’s register of shareholders or at the address otherwise notified to the Company, the Company may sell or otherwise dispose of the shareholder’s shares by a resolution of the Board of Directors and after giving at least three months’ prior public and individual notice, and hold or deposit the proceeds of such sale or disposal of shares at the then market price of the shares for the shareholder, the location of which is unknown.

 

Reporting of substantial shareholdings, etc.

 

The Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan and regulations thereunder requires any person, regardless of his/her residence, who has become, beneficially and solely or jointly, a holder of more than five percent of the total issued shares with voting rights of common stock of a company listed on any Japanese stock exchange or whose shares are traded on the over-the-counter market in Japan, to file with the Director-General of a competent Local Finance Bureau of Ministry of Finance within five business days a report concerning such shareholdings.

 

A similar report must also be filed in respect to any subsequent change of one percent or more in any such holding or any change in material matters set out in reports previously filed, with certain exceptions. For this purpose, shares issuable to such person upon conversion of convertible securities or exercise of share subscription warrants or stock acquisition rights are taken into account in determining both the number of shares with voting rights held by such holder and the issuer’s total issued share capital with voting rights.capital. Any such report shall be filed with the Director General of the relevant Finance Bureau of the Ministry of Finance through the Electronic Disclosure for Investors’ Network (EDINET) system. Copies of such report must also be furnished to the issuer of such shares.

 

Except for the general limitations under Japanese anti-trust and anti-monopoly regulations on holding shares of common stock of a Japanese corporation which leads or may lead to a restraint of trade or a monopoly, except for the limitations under the Foreign Exchange Regulations as described in “D. Exchange Controls” below, and except for general limitations under the Company Law or the Company’s Articles of Incorporation on the rights of shareholders applicable regardless of residence or nationality, there is practically no limitation under Japanese laws and regulations applicable to the Company or under its Articles of Incorporation on the rights of non-resident or foreign shareholders to hold the shares of Common Stock of the Company or exercise voting rights thereon.


- 7476 -

 

There is no provision in the Company’s Articles of Incorporation that would have an effect of delaying, deferring or preventing a change in control of the Company and that would operate only with respect to merger, consolidation, acquisition or corporate restructuring involving the Company. However, the Board of Directors resolved to adopt the ESV Plan which provides certain rules which a Large-scale Purchaser who intends to acquire 20% or more of all voting rights of the Company must comply with. (For details, please see “(4) Initiatives to Maximize Shareholder Value” in Section A of Item 8.)

 

Daily price fluctuation limits under Japanese stock exchange rules

 

Stock prices on Japanese stock exchanges are determined on a real-time basis by the balance between bids and offers. These stock exchanges are order-driven markets without specialists or market makers to guide price formation. In order to prevent excessive volatility, these stock exchanges set daily upward and downward price range limitations for each listed stock, based on the previous day’s closing price. Although transactions may continue at the upward or downward limit price if the limit price is reached on a particular trading day, no transactions may take place outside these limits. Consequently, an investor wishing to sell at a price above or below the relevant daily limit on these stock exchanges may not be able to effect a sale at such price on a particular trading day, or at all.

 

 

C.Material Contracts

 

All contracts concluded by the Company during the two years preceding the date of this annual report were entered into in the ordinary course of business.

 

 

D.Exchange Controls

 

The Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Law of Japan and its related cabinet orders and ministerial ordinances (the “Foreign Exchange Regulations”) govern the acquisition and holding of shares of Common Stock of the Company by “exchange non-residents” and by “foreign investors.” The Foreign Exchange Regulations currently in effect may affect transactions between exchange non-residents to purchase or sell shares in certain circumstances, even if such transactions are being made outside Japan using currencies other than Japanese yen.

 

Exchange non-residents are:

 

 (i)individuals who do not reside in Japan; and

 

 (ii)corporations whose principal offices are located outside Japan.

 

Generally, branches and other offices of non-resident corporations that are located within Japan are regarded as residents of Japan. Conversely, branches and other offices of Japanese corporations located outside Japan are regarded as exchange non-residents.

 

Foreign investors are:

 

 (i)individuals who are exchange non-residents;

 

 (ii)corporations that are organized under the laws of foreign countries or whose principal offices are located outside of Japan; and


- 7577 -

 

 (iii)corporations (1) of which 50% or more of their shares are held by individuals who are exchange nonresidentsnon-residents and/or corporations (a) that are organized under the laws of foreign countries or (b) whose principal offices are located outside of Japan or (2) a majority of whose officers, or officers having the power of representation, are individuals who are exchange non-residents.

 

In general, the acquisition of shares of a Japanese company (such as the shares of Common Stock of the Company) by an exchange non-resident from a resident of Japan is not subject to any prior filing requirements. In certain circumstances, however, the Minister of Finance may require prior approval of an acquisition of this type. While prior approval, as described above, is not required, in the case where a resident of Japan transfers shares of a Japanese company (such as the shares of Common Stock of the Company) for consideration exceeding 100 million yen to an exchange non-resident, the resident of Japan who transfers the shares is required to report the transfer to the Minister of Finance within 20 days from the date of the transfer, unless the transfer was made through a bank or financial instruments firmsbusiness operator licensed or registered under Japanese law.

 

If a foreign investor acquires shares of a Japanese company that is listed on a Japanese stock exchange (such as the shares of Common Stock of the Company) or that is traded on an over-the-counter market in Japan and, as a result of the acquisition, the foreign investor, in combination with any existing holdings, directly or indirectly holds 10% or more of the issued shares of the relevant company, the foreign investor must file a report of the acquisition with the Minister of Finance and any other competent Ministers having jurisdiction over that Japanese company within 15 days from and includingon or before the date15th day of the acquisition.month following the month in which such acquisition was made. However, in certain circumstances, such as where a business of a Japanese company falls under any business related to the national security of Japan or to maintenance of public safety, etc. which is listed in a schedule included in the Foreign Exchange Regulations, or where the foreign investor is in a country that is not listed in an exemption schedule included in the Foreign Exchange Regulations, a prior notification of the acquisition must be filed with, and the proposed acquisition must be subject to an examination process by, the Minister of Finance and any other competent Ministers, who may then modify or prohibit the proposed acquisition. In such circumstances, the foreign investor must wait until the examination process is completed, which ordinarily takes 30 days after the filing in principle although such waiting period may be shortened or extended to up to 5 months. The Company believes that certain businesses of the Company fall under businesses listed in the above-mentioned schedule in the Foreign Exchange Regulation, and thus, a foreign investor must file a prior notification of the acquisition with, and must be subject to an examination process by, the Minister of Finance and any other competent Ministers.

 

Under the Foreign Exchange Regulations, dividends paid on and the proceeds from the sale in Japan of shares of Common Stock of the Company held by non-residents of Japan may generally be converted into any foreign currency and repatriated abroad.

 

 

E.Taxation

 

The discussion below is not intended to constitute a complete analysis of all tax consequences relating to the ownership and disposition of shares of Common Stock and ADSs. Prospective purchasers and holders of the shares of Common Stock or ADSs should consult their own tax advisors concerning the tax consequences of their particular situations.

 

The following is a summary of the principal Japanese national and U.S. federal tax consequences of the ownership and disposition of shares of Common Stock or ADSs by an Eligible U.S. Holder and a U.S. Holder (each as defined below), as the case may be, that holds those shares or ADSs as capital assets (generally, property held for investment). This summary does not purport to address all material tax consequences that may be relevant to holders of shares of Common Stock or ADSs, and does not take into account the specific circumstances of any particular investors, some of which (such as tax-exempt entities, banks, insurance companies, broker-dealers, traders in securities that elect to use a mark-to-market method of accounting for their securities holdings, regulated investment companies, real estate investment trusts, investors liable for alternative minimum tax, investors that own or are treated as owning 10% or more of the Company’s voting stock, investors that hold shares of Common Stock or ADSs as part of a straddle, hedge, conversion or constructive sale transaction or other integrated transaction, investors that hold shares of Common Stock or ADSs through a partnership or other pass-through entity and investors whose functional currency is not the U.S. dollar) may be subject to special tax rules. This summary is based on the national or federal tax laws of Japan and of the United States as in effect on the date hereof, as well as on the current income tax convention between the United States and Japan (the “Treaty”), all of which are subject to change (possibly with retroactive effect) and to differing interpretations.


- 7678 -

 

In addition, this summary is based in part upon the representations of the Depositary and the assumption that each obligation in the Deposit Agreement for ADSs and in any related agreement will be performed in accordance with its terms.

 

For purposes of this discussion, a “U.S. Holder” is any beneficial owner of shares of Common Stock or ADSs that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is:

 

 (i)a citizen or individual resident of the United States;

 

 (ii)a corporation or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes organized in or under the laws of the United States, any State, or the District of Columbia;

 

 (iii)an estate the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income tax without regard to its source; or

 

 (iv)a trust that is subject to the primary supervision of a U.S. court and the control of one or more U.S. persons, or that has a valid election in effect under applicable Treasury regulations to be treated as a U.S. person.

 

An “Eligible U.S. Holder” is a U.S. Holder that:

 

 (i)is a resident of the United States for purposes of the Treaty;

 

 (ii)does not maintain a permanent establishment in Japan (a) with which shares of Common Stock or ADSs are effectively connected or (b) of which shares of Common Stock or ADSs form part of the business property; and

 

 (iii)is eligible for benefits under the Treaty, with respect to income and gain derived in connection with the shares of Common Stock or ADSs.

 

This summary does not address any aspects of U.S. federal tax law other than income taxation, and does not discuss any aspects of Japanese tax law other than national income taxation, inheritance and gift taxation. Investors are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal, state and local and Japanese and other tax consequences of owning and disposing of shares of Common Stock or ADSs. In particular, where relevant, investors are urged to confirm their status as Eligible U.S. Holders with their tax advisors and to discuss with their tax advisors any possible consequences of their failure to qualify as Eligible U.S. Holders. In general, taking into account the earlier assumption, for purposes of the Treaty and for U.S. federal income and Japanese income tax purposes, beneficial owners of ADRs evidencing ADSs will be treated as the owners of the shares of Common Stock represented by those ADSs, and exchanges of shares of Common Stock for ADRs, and exchanges of ADRs for shares of Common Stock, will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax or Japanese income tax.

 

Japanese taxation

 

The following is a summary of the principal Japanese tax consequences (limited to national taxes) to nonresidentsnon-residents of Japan or non-Japanese corporations without permanent establishments in Japan (“non-resident Holders”) who are holders of shares of Common Stock of the Company or of ADRs evidencing ADSs representing shares of Common Stock of the Company.

 

Generally, non-resident Holders are subject to Japanese withholding tax on dividends paid by a Japanese corporation. Such taxes are withheld prior to payment of dividends as required by Japanese law. Stock splits in themselves generally are not subject to Japanese income tax in general.tax.

 

In the absence of an applicable tax treaty, convention or agreement reducing the maximum rate of Japanese withholding tax or allowing exemption from Japanese withholding tax, the rate of Japanese withholding tax applicable to dividends paid by Japanese corporations to non-resident Holders is 20%. However, with respect to dividends paid on listed shares issued by a Japanese corporation (such as the shares of Common Stock of the Company)Company or ADSs) to non-resident Holders, except for any individual shareholder who holds 5% or more of the total issued shares of the relevant Japanese corporation, the aforementioned


- 77 -

20% withholding tax rate is reduced to (i) 7% for dividends due and payable on or before December 31, 2011, and (ii) 15% for dividends due and payable on or after January 1, 2012. At the date of this annual report, Japan has income tax treaties, conventions or agreements whereby the above-mentioned withholding tax rate is reduced, in most cases to 15% or 10% for portfolio investors (15% under the income tax treaties with, among other countries, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Singapore, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland, and 10% under the income tax treaties with Australia, France, the U.K. and the United States.)


- 79 -

 

Under the Treaty, the maximum rate of Japanese withholding tax which may be imposed on dividends paid by a Japanese corporation to an Eligible U.S. Holder that is a portfolio investor is generally limited to 10% of the gross amount actually distributed, and dividends paid by a Japanese corporation to an Eligible U.S. Holder that is a pension fund are exempt from Japanese income taxation by way of withholding or otherwise unless such dividends are derived from the carrying on of a business, directly or indirectly, by such pension fund.

 

If the maximum tax rate provided for in the income tax treaty applicable to dividends paid by the Company to any particular non-resident Holder is lower than the withholding tax rate otherwise applicable under Japanese tax law, or if any particular non-resident Holder is exempt from Japanese income tax with respect to such dividends under the income tax treaty applicable to such particular non-resident Holder, such non-resident Holder of the Company’s shares of Common Stock who is entitled to a reduced rate of or exemption from Japanese withholding tax on payment of dividends on the Company’s shares of Common Stock is required to submit an Application Form for Income Tax Convention Regarding Relief from Japanese Income Tax on Dividends in advance through the withholding agent to the relevant tax authority before such payment of dividends. A standing proxy for nonresidentnon-resident Holders of a Japanese corporation may provide this application service. With respect to ADSs, this reduced rate or exemption is applicable if the Depositary or its agent submits two Application Forms (one before payment of dividends, the other within eight months after the record date concerning such payment of dividends) together with certain other documents to the Japanese tax authorities. To claim this reduced rate or exemption, any relevant non-resident Holder of ADSs will be required to file a proof of taxpayer status, residence and beneficial ownership (as applicable) and to provide other information or documents as may be required by the Depositary. A nonresidentnon-resident Holder who is entitled, under an applicable income tax treaty, to a reduced treaty rate lower than the withholding tax rate otherwise applicable under Japanese tax law or an exemption from the withholding tax, but failed to submit the required application in advance will be entitled to claim the refund of withholding taxes withheld in excess of the rate under an applicable tax treaty (if such non-resident Holder is entitled to a reduced treaty rate under the applicable income tax treaty) or the whole of the withholding tax withheld (if such non-resident Holder is entitled to an exemption under the applicable income tax treaty) from the relevant Japanese tax authority, by complying with a certain subsequent filing procedure. The Company does not assume any responsibility to ensure withholding at the reduced treaty rate or not withholding for shareholders who would be so eligible under an applicable tax treaty but do not followwhere the required procedures as stated above.above are not followed.

 

Gains derived from the sale of shares of Common Stock or ADSs outside Japan by a non-resident Holder holding such shares or ADSs as a portfolio investor are, in general, not subject to Japanese income or corporation tax. Eligible U.S. Holders are not subject to Japanese income or corporation tax with respect to such gains under the Treaty, subject to a certain filing requirement under Japanese law.

 

Japanese inheritance and gift taxes at progressive rates may be payable by an individual who has acquired from an individual shares of Common Stock or ADSs as a legatee, heir or donee even though neither the acquiring individual nor the deceased nor donor is a Japanese resident.

 

Holders of shares of Common Stock of the Company or ADSs should consult their tax advisors regarding the effect of these taxes and, in the case of U.S. Holders, the possible application of the Estate and Gift Tax Treaty between the U.S. and Japan.

 

U.S. federal income taxation

 

The following is a summary of certain United States federal income tax consequences of the ownership of

shares of Common Stock or ADSs by a U.S. Holder. This summary is based on United States tax laws, including the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and on the Treaty all of which are subject to change possibly with retroactive effect.

 

This summary is not a comprehensive description of all the tax considerations that may be relevant with respect to a U.S. holder’s shares or ADSs. Each beneficial owner of shares or ADSs should consult its own tax advisor regarding the U.S. federal, state and local and other tax consequences of owning and disposing of shares and ADSs in its particular circumstances.


- 7880 -

 

Taxation of dividends

 

Under the United States federal income tax laws, and subject to the passive foreign investment company (PFIC) rules discussed below, the gross amount of any dividends received by a U.S. Holder (before reduction for Japanese withholding taxes) to the extent paid out of the Company’s current or accumulated earnings and profits (as determined for United States federal income tax purposes) will be subject to U.S. federal income taxation. Dividends paid to non-corporate U.S. Holders in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011 that constitute qualified dividend income will be taxable at a maximum tax rate of 15% provided that the U.S. Holders held the shares of Common Stock or ADSs for more than 60 days during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date and meet other holding period requirements. Dividends the Company pays with respect to the shares of Common Stock or ADSs generally will be qualified dividend income. The U.S. Holder must include any Japanese tax withheld from the dividend payment in this gross amount even though it does not in fact receive it. The dividend is taxable to the U.S. Holder when the U.S. Holder, in the case of shares of Common Stock, or the Depositary, in the case of ADSs, receives the dividend, actually or constructively. The dividend will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to United States corporations in respect of dividends received from other United States corporations. The amount of the dividend the U.S. Holder must include in its income will be the U.S. dollar value of the Japanese yen payments made, determined at the spot Japanese yen/U.S. dollar rate on the date the dividend is includible in the U.S. Holder’s income, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted into U.S. dollars. Generally, any gain or loss resulting from currency exchange fluctuations during the period from the date the U.S. Holder includes the dividend payment in income to the date the U.S. Holder converts the payment into U.S. dollars will be treated as ordinary income or loss and will not be eligible for the special tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income. TheThis gain or loss generally will be income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes. Distributions in excess of current and accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for United States federal income tax purposes, will be treated as a non-taxable return of capital to the extent of the U.S. Holder’s basis in the shares of Common Stock or ADSs and thereafter as capital gain.

 

Subject to certain limitations, the Japanese tax withheld in accordance with the Treaty will be creditable or deductible against the U.S. Holder’s United States federal income tax liability. To the extent a refund of the tax withheld is available to a U.S. holder under Japanese law or under the Treaty, the amount of tax that is refundable will not be eligible for credit against your United States federal income tax liability. Please see “Japanese Taxation”, above, for the procedures for obtaining a reduced rate of withholding under the Treaty or a tax refund. Special rules apply in determining the foreign tax credit limitation with respect to dividends that are subject to the maximum 15% tax rate. For foreign tax credit limitation purposes, the dividend will be income from sources outside the United States and will, depending on the U.S. Holder’s circumstances, be either “passive income” or “general income” for purposes of computing the foreign tax credit allowable to a U.S. Holder.

 

Taxation of capital gains

 

Subject to the PFIC rules discussed below, upon a sale or other disposition of shares of Common Stock or ADSs, a U.S. Holder will recognize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the U.S. dollar value of the amount realized and the U.S. Holder’s tax basis (determined in U.S. dollars) in such shares of Common Stock or ADSs. Generally, such gain or loss will be capital gain or loss and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the U.S. Holder’s holding period for such shares of Common Stock or ADSs is greater than 1one year. Long-term capital gain of a non-corporate U.S. Holder that is recognized in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2011 is generally taxed at a maximum rate of 15%.preferential rates. Any such gain or loss will generally be income or loss from sources within the United States for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.


- 81 -

 

Transfers of retained earnings and sales of shares of Common Stock to the Company

 

A transfer of retained earnings or legal reserve to stated capital is generally treated as a dividend payment for Japanese tax purposes subject to withholding tax. A sale of shares of Common Stock or ADSs to the Company results in a deemed dividend for Japanese tax purposepurposes to the selling shareholders to the extent that the sales price exceeds the aggregate of the stated capital and the capital surplus attributable to the shares sold. Transfers of retained earnings or legal reserves to stated capital and deemed dividends that may result from sales of shares of Common Stock to the Company are not generally taxable events that give rise to foreign source income for U.S. federal income tax purposes and U.S. Holders would not be able to use the foreign tax credit arising from any Japanese withholding tax imposed on such transactions unless they can apply the credit (subject to limitations) against U.S. tax due on other foreign source income in the appropriate category for foreign tax credit purposes.


- 79 -

 

Passive foreign investment company considerations

 

The Company believes that shares of Common Stock and ADSs should not be treated as stock of a PFIC for United States federal income tax purposes, but this conclusion is a factual determination made annually and thus may be subject to change. If the Company were to be treated as a PFIC (unless a U.S. Holder elects to be taxed annually on a mark-to-market basis with respect to the shares of Common Stock or ADSs), gain realized on the sale or other disposition of shares of Common Stock or ADSs would in general not be treated as capital gain, and a U.S. Holder would be treated as if such holder had realized such gain and certain “excess distributions” ratably over the holder’s holding period for the shares of Common Stock or ADSs and would be taxed at the highest tax rate in effect for each such year to which the gain was allocated, together with an interest charge in respect of the tax attributable to each such year. With certain exceptions, shares of Common stock or ADSs will be treated as stock in a PFIC if the Company werewas a PFIC at any time during the U.S. Holder’s holding period in the shares of Common Stock or ADSs.

 

Dividends that such U.S. Holder receives from the Company will not be eligible for the special tax rates applicable to qualified dividend income if the Company is treated as a PFIC with respect to such U.S. Holder either in the taxable year of the distribution or the preceding taxable year, but instead will be taxable at rates applicable to ordinary income.

 

 

F.Dividends and Paying Agents

 

Not applicable

 

 

G.Statement by Experts

 

Not applicable

 

 

H.Documents on Display

 

According to the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the Company is subject to the requirements of informational disclosure. The Company files various reports and other information, including its annual report on Form 20-F, with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. These reports and other information may be inspected at the public reference room at the Securities and Exchange Commission, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington D.C. 20549. You can also obtain a copy of such material by mail from the public reference room of the Securities and Exchange Commission at prescribed fees. You may obtain information on the operation of the Securities and Exchange Commission public reference room by calling the Securities and Exchange Commission in the United States at 1-800-SEC-0330.

 

Also, documents filed via the Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis, and Retrieval system (EDGAR) are available at the website of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (http://www.sec.gov).

 

I.Subsidiary Information

 

Not applicable


- 82 -

 

Item 11.Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

 

The Company is exposed to market risk, including changes of foreign exchange rates, interest rates and prices of marketable securities and commodities. In order to hedge the risks of changes in foreign exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices, the Company uses derivative financial instruments. The Company does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes. Although the use of derivative financial instruments exposes the Company to the risk of credit-related losses in the event of nonperformance by counterparties, the Company believes that such risk is minor because of the high credit rating of the counterparties.


- 80 -

 

Equity Price Risk

 

The Company holds available-for-sale securities included in short-term investments and investments and advances. In general, highly-liquid and low risk instruments are preferred in the portfolio. Available-for-sale securities included in investments and advances are held as longer term investments. The Company does not hold marketable securities for trading purposes.

 

Maturities of investments in available-for-sale securities at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

  Cost

  Fair
value


  Cost

  Fair
value


  Cost

  Fair
    value    


  Cost

  Fair
    value    


Due within one year

  1,972  1,998  47,262  47,414  —    —    1,972  1,998

Due after one year through five years

  9,782  9,910  34,991  35,456  4,462  4,546  9,782  9,910

Due after five years through ten years

  —    —    2,200  2,197

Equity securities

  269,735  284,356  333,057  441,839  275,579  379,358  269,735  284,356
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Total

  281,489  296,264  417,510  526,906  280,041  383,904  281,489  296,264
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

Foreign Exchange Risk

 

The primary purpose of the Company’s foreign currency hedging activities is to protect against the volatility associated with foreign currency transactions. The Company primarily utilizes forward exchange contracts and options with a duration of less than a few months. The Company also enters into foreign exchange contracts from time to time to hedge the risk of fluctuation in foreign currency exchange rates associated with long-term debt that is denominated in foreign currencies. Foreign exchange contracts related to such long-term debt have the same maturity as the underlying debt.

 

The following table provides the contract amounts and fair values of foreign exchange contracts, primarily hedging U.S. dollar and euro revenues, at March 31, 20092010 and 2008.2009. Amounts related to foreign exchange contracts entered into in connection with long-term debt denominated in foreign currencies which eliminate all foreign currency exposures, are shown in the table of “Interest Rate Risk.”

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

  2010

 2009

 
  Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


 Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


  Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


 Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


 

Forward:

                  

To sell foreign currencies

  334,586  (9,902 312,390  11,682    375,430  1,121   334,586  (9,902

To buy foreign currencies

  190,495  2,503   185,267  (2,388  196,439  3,606   190,495  2,503  

Cross currency swaps

  33,953  1,535   32,717  (874  31,797  (283 33,953  1,535  

Interest rate swaps

  33,702  23   —    —    


- 83 -

 

Commodity Price Risk

 

The Company is exposed to market risk of changes in prices of commodities including various non-ferrous metals used in the manufacturing of various products. The Company enters into commodity future contracts to offset such exposure.

 

The following table provides the contract amounts and fair values of commodity futures at March 31, 20092010 and 2008.2009.

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 
  Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


 Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


   Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


 Contract
amount


  Fair
    value    


 

Commodity futures:

                  

To sell commodity

  48,858  13,955   129,425  (9,746  40,194  (4,576 48,858  13,955  

To buy commodity

  168,527  (57,720 294,884  28,325    113,682  12,561   168,527  (57,720


- 8184 -

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

The Company’s exposure to market risk for changes in interest rates relates principally to its debt obligations. The Company has long-term debt primarily with fixed rates. Fixed-rate debt obligations expose the Company to variability in their fair values due to changes in interest rates. To manage the variability in the fair values caused by interest rate changes, the Company enters into interest rate swaps when it is determined to be appropriate based on market conditions. Interest rate swaps change fixed-rate debt obligations to variable-rate debt obligations by entering into fixed-receiving, variable-paying interest rate swap contracts. The hedging relationship between interest rate swaps and hedged debt obligations is highly effective in achieving offsetting changes in fair values resulting from interest rate risk. The following tables provide information about the Company’s financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates at March 31, 20092010 and 2008.2009. For debt obligations, the table presents principal cash flows by expected maturity dates, related weighted average interest rates and fair values of financial instruments.

 

Long-term debt, including current portion:

 

   Average
interest
rate


 Yen (millions)

   Carrying amount and maturity date (as of March 31, 2009)

   Total

  2010

  2011

  2012

  2013

  2014

  There-
after


  Fair
value


Unsecured Straight bonds

  1.5% 500,000        200,000     200,000  100,000  500,791

Unsecured Straight bonds issued by subsidiaries

  1.6% 60,143        150     20,000  39,993  60,171

Unsecured bank loans

  1.6% 22,043  7,446  7,531  5,560  1,347  159     22,073

Secured yen bank loans by subsidiaries

  2.5% 3,136  29  344  197  187  193  2,186  3,136
     
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Total

      585,322      7,475      7,875  205,907      1,534  220,352    142,179  586,171
     
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

  Average
interest
rate


 Yen (millions)

 Average
interest
rate


 Yen (millions)

   Carrying amount and maturity date (as of March 31, 2008)

 Carrying amount and maturity date (as of March 31, 2010)

   Total

  2009

  2010

  2011

  2012

  2013

  There-
after


  Fair
value


 Total

 2011

 2012

 2013

 2014

 2015

 There-
after


 Fair
value

Unsecured Straight bond

  1.6% 100,000           100,000        101,944

Unsecured Straight bonds

 1.5% 500,000 200,000 200,000 100,000 514,400

Unsecured Straight bonds issued by subsidiaries

  1.0% 50,150  30,000        150     20,000  50,410 1.5% 182,406 20,000 30,643 30,000 31,769 69,994 184,887

Unsecured bank loans

  2.0% 33,920  10,410  8,895  8,937  4,180  1,498     34,042 1.1% 404,318 146,304 109,533 49,338 40,772 57,680 691 401,433

Secured yen bank loans by subsidiaries

  2.6% 4,011  356  216  198  232  211  2,798  4,011

Secured bank loans by subsidiaries

 2.0% 4,558 649 325 171 1,475 182 1,756 4,558
   
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Total

     188,081      40,766      9,111      9,135  104,562    1,709    22,798    190,407 1,091,282 166,953 340,501   49,509 272,247   89,631 172,441 1,105,278
   
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 Average
interest
rate


 Yen (millions)

 Carrying amount and maturity date (as of March 31, 2009)

 Total

 2010

 2011

 2012

 2013

 2014

 There-
after


 Fair
value

Unsecured Straight bonds

 1.5% 500,000 200,000 200,000 100,000 500,791

Unsecured Straight bonds issued by subsidiaries

 1.6% 60,143 150 20,000 39,993 60,171

Unsecured bank loans

 1.6% 22,043 7,446 7,531 5,560 1,347 159 22,073

Secured bank loans by subsidiaries

 2.5% 3,136 29 344 197 187 193 2,186 3,136
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Total

 585,322     7,475     7,875 205,907     1,534   220,352   142,179   586,171
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 


- 8285 -

 

Item 12.Description of Securities Other than Equity Securities

 

A.Debt Securities

Not applicable

B.Warrants and Rights

Not applicable

C.Other Securities

Not applicable

D.American Depositary Shares

D3.Fees and Charges Payable by ADR Holders

Our American Depositary Shares (ADSs) are traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “PC.” The ADSs are evidenced by American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), issued by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. The following table shows the fees and charges that a holder of our ADRs may have to pay to the Depositary, either directly or indirectly:

Category


Depositary Actions


Associated Fee


(a) Depositing or substituting the underlying shares

Each person to whom ADRs are issued against deposits of Shares, including deposits and issuances in respect of:

- Share distributions, stock split, rights, merger.

- Exchange of securities or any other transaction or event or other distribution affecting the ADSs or the Deposited Securities.

US$ 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) evidenced by the new ADRs delivered.
(c) Selling or exercising rights

Distribution or sale of securities, the fee being in an amount equal to the fee for the execution and delivery of ADSs which would have been charged as a result of the deposit of such securities.

US$ 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof)
(d) Withdrawing an underlying securityAcceptance of ADRs surrendered for withdrawal of deposited securities.

US$ 5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) evidenced by the ADRs surrendered.

(e) Transferring, splitting or grouping receipts

Transfers, combining or grouping of depositary receipts.

US$ 2.50 per ADR Certificate
(g) Expenses of the depositary

Expenses incurred on behalf of Holders in connection with.

- Compliance with foreign exchange control regulations or any law or regulation relating to foreign investment.

- The depositary’s or its custodian’s compliance with applicable law, rule or regulation.

- Stock transfer or other taxes and other governmental charges.

- Cable, telex, facsimile transmission/delivery.

- Expenses of the depositary in connection with the conversion of foreign currency into U.S. dollars (which are paid out of such foreign currency).

- Any other charge payable by depositary or its agents.

Expenses payable at the sole discretion of the depositary by billing Holders or by deducting charges from one or more cash dividends or other cash distributions.

D4.Fees and Other Payment Made by the Depositary to the Issuer

The following table shows the fees and other direct and indirect payments made by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as Depositary to us:

Category of Expenses


Amount Reimbursed for fiscal 2010

New York Stock Exchange Listing fees

US$38,000


- 8386 -

 

PART II

 

Item 13.Defaults, Dividend Arrearages and Delinquencies

 

None

 

Item 14.Material Modifications to the Rights of Security Holders and Use of Proceeds

 

None

 

Item 15.Controls and Procedures

 

Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

The Company’s management, with the participation of its principal executive and principal financial officers, evaluated the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of March 31, 2009.2010. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s principal executive and principal financial officers concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of that date.

 

Management’s Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

Panasonic’s management is responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting. Internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the Company’s principal executive and principal officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the Company’s board of directors, management and other personnel, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and includes those policies and procedures that:

 

(i) pertain to the maintenance of records that in reasonable detail accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;

 

(ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and

 

(iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions or because the degree of compliance with policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

The management of the Company, with the participation of the Company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 20092010 based on the frame work in “Internal Control-Integrated Framework” issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on the assessment, the management of the Company concluded that the internal control over financial reporting of the Company was effective as of March 31, 2009.2010.

 

The Company’s independent registered public accounting firm, KPMG AZSA & Co., has audited the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as stated in their report which is included herein.


- 8487 -

 

Evaluation of Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

No change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934) occurred during the year ended March 31, 20092010 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

Item 16A.Audit Committee Financial Expert

 

Panasonic’s Board of Corporate Auditors has determined that Mr. Kenichi Hamada, a Senior Corporate Auditor of Panasonic, is an “audit committee financial expert” as such term is defined by Item 16A of Form 20-F. Mr. Hamada meets the independence requirements imposed on corporate auditors under the Company Law of Japan.Law.

 

 

Item 16B.Code of Ethics

 

Panasonic has adopted a Code of Ethics applicable to the Chief Executive Officer, the Chief Financial Officer and other Executive Officers. The Code of Ethics is attached as an exhibit to the annual report (exhibit 11.1).for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2009 on Form 20-F.


- 88 -

 

Item 16C.    Principal Accountant Fees and Services

Item 16C.Principal Accountant Fees and Services

 

Fees and services by the Company’s principal accountant

 

The following table shows the aggregate fees accrued or paid to KPMG AZSA & Co. and its member firms (KPMG), the Company’s principal accountant for the years ended March 31, 20092010 and 2008:2009:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

Audit fees

  2,439  2,635  3,050  2,439

Audit-related fees

  330  541  42  330

Tax fees

  220  148  176  220

All other fees

  4  27  28  4
  
  
  
  

Total

  2,993  3,351  3,296  2,993
  
  
  
  

 

Audit fees are fees for professional services for the audit of the Company’s annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements. Audit-related fees are fees for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Company’s financial statements and are not reported under the Audit fees category, such as financial due diligence service. Tax fees are fees for professional services rendered mainly for tax compliance, tax advice, tax consulting associated with international transfer prices and expatriate employee tax services. All other fees are fees for those services not reported under the Audit fees, Audit-related fees, and Tax fees categories.

 

No services were provided for which pre-approval was waived pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.

 

Policy of the Company’s Board of Corporate Auditors on pre-approval of audit or non-audit services

 

In accordance with paragraph (c)(7)(i) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X and the related adopting release of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the Company’s Board of Corporate Auditors must pre-approve the engagement of the Company’s principal accountant, currently KPMG AZSA & Co., by Panasonic or its subsidiaries to render audit or non-audit services. Also, paragraph (c)(4) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X provides that an accountant is not independent from an audit client if the accountant provides certain non-audit services to the audit client. Under the policy adopted by the Company’s Board of Corporate Auditors, all audit or non-audit services provided by KPMG AZSA & Co. must be specifically pre-approved by the Board of Corporate Auditors. Such pre-approval is considered at the monthly meetings of the Board of Corporate Auditors. Any service that either falls into a category of services that are not permitted by the applicable law or regulation or is otherwise deemed by the Board of Corporate Auditors to be inconsistent with the maintenance of the principal accountant’s independence is rejected. Management’s requests for proposed engagement of the principal accountant to render services that require immediate approval, if considered necessary, are pre-approved by a designated member of the Board of Corporate Auditors, and then reported to the Board of Corporate Auditors at its next meeting.


- 8589 -

 

Item 16D.     Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees

 

With respect to the requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 relating to listed company audit committees, which apply to the Company through Section 303A.06 of the New York Stock Exchange’s Listed Company Manual, the Company relies on an exemption provided by paragraph (c)(3) of that Rule available to foreign private issuers with boards of corporate auditors meeting certain requirements. For a New York Stock Exchange-listed Japanese company with a board of corporate auditors, the requirements for relying on paragraph (c)(3) of Rule 10A-3 are as follows:

 

The board of corporate auditors must be established, and its members must be selected, pursuant to Japanese law expressly requiring such a board for Japanese companies that elect to have a corporate governance system with corporate auditors.

 

Japanese law must and does require the board of corporate auditors to be separate from the board of directors.

 

None of the members of the board of corporate auditors is elected by management, and none of the listed company’s executive officers is a member of the board of corporate auditors.

 

Japanese law must and does set forth standards for the independence of the members of the board of corporate auditors from the listed company or its management.

 

The board of corporate auditors, in accordance with Japanese law or the listed company’s governing documents, must be responsible, to the extent permitted by Japanese law, for the appointment, retention and oversight of the work of any registered public accounting firm engaged (including, to the extent permitted by Japanese law, the resolution of disagreements between management and the auditor regarding financial reporting) for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attest services for the listed company, including its principal accountant which audits its consolidated financial statements included in its annual reports on Form 20-F.

 

To the extent permitted by Japanese law:

 

 the board of corporate auditors must establish procedures for (i) the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints received by the listed company regarding accounting, internal accounting controls, or auditing matters, and (ii) the confidential, anonymous submission by the listed company’s employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters;

 

 the board of corporate auditors must have the authority to engage independent counsel and other advisers, as it determines necessary to carry out its duties; and

 

 the listed company must provide for appropriate funding, as determined by its board of corporate auditors, for payment of (i) compensation to any registered public accounting firm engaged for the purpose of preparing or issuing an audit report or performing other audit, review or attest services for the listed company, (ii) compensation to any advisers employed by the board of corporate auditors, and (iii) ordinary administrative expenses of the board of corporate auditors that are necessary or appropriate in carrying out its duties.

 

In the Company’s assessment, its Board of Corporate Auditors, which meets the requirements for reliance on the exemption in paragraph (c)(3) of Rule 10A-3 described above, is not materially less effective than an audit committee meeting all the requirements of paragraph (b) of Rule 10A-3 (without relying on any exemption provided by that Rule) at acting independently of management and performing the functions of an audit committee as contemplated therein.


- 8690 -

 

Item 16E.    Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

Item 16E.Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers

 

The following table sets forth, for each ofshows the months indicated, the total number of shares purchased by or on behalf of the Company or any affiliated purchaser and the average price paid per share,share.

In fiscal 2010, the number ofCompany did not repurchase its own shares purchased as part ofnor announced the repurchase plan, announced on April 28, 2008 as described aboveexcept for repurchase of its own shares constituting less than a full unit upon request from a holder of such shares and the maximum number of shares or approximate Japanese Yen value that may yet be purchased under the plans or programs.other minor transactions described below.

 

  Period  


    (a) Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
(Shares)


  (b) Average
Price Paid

per Share*
(Yen)


  (c) Total
Number of Shares
Purchased as

Part of Publicly
Announced Plan
(Shares)


  (d) Maximum
Number of Shares
that May Yet Be
Purchased Under
the Plan
(Shares)


April 1 - 30, 2008

    52,620  2,111     50,000,000

May 1 - 31, 2008

    124,144  2,388      

June 1 - 30, 2008

    16,820,196  2,405  16,635,000  33,365,000

July 1 - 31, 2008

    6,690,049  2,296  6,529,000  26,836,000

August 1 - 31, 2008

    6,609,166  2,318  6,470,000  20,366,000

September 1 - 30, 2008

    117,475  2,116      

October 1 - 31, 2008

    79,016  1,594      

November 1 - 30, 2008

    250,267  1,787      

December 1 - 31, 2008

    197,626  1,082      

January 1 - 31, 2009

    44,376  1,079      

February 1 - 29, 2009

    41,942  1,131      

March 1 - 31, 2009

    31,409  1,158      
     
  
  
  

Total

    31,058,286  2,341  29,634,000   
     
  
  
   

  Period  


    (a) Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
(Shares)


  (b) Average
Price Paid
per Share*
(Yen)


April 1 - 30, 2009

    22,251  1,364

May 1 - 31, 2009

    23,617  1,344

June 1 - 30, 2009

    22,729  1,308

July 1 - 31, 2009

    20,065  1,369

August 1 - 31, 2009

    19,585  1,489

September 1 - 30, 2009

    18,777  1,416

October 1 - 31, 2009

    20,350  1,248

November 1 - 30, 2009

    20,612  1,130

December 1 - 31, 2009

    19,329  1,319

January 1 - 31, 2010

    18,802  1,506

February 1 - 28, 2010

    19,934  1,256

March 1 - 31, 2010

    18,614  1,376
     
  

Total

    244,665  1,341
     
  

 

*The amounts less than yen are rounded to the nearest whole of a yen.

 

On April 28, 2008, the Company announced that the Board of Directors resolved to repurchase its own shares from the market, pursuant to Article 459, Paragraph 1, Item 1 of the Company Law of Japan as follows:

Class of shares

: Common stock

Aggregate number of shares to be repurchased

: Up to 50 million shares

Aggregate amount to be repurchased

: Up to 100 billion yen

Period of repurchase

: Between April 30, 2008 and late March 2009

Under the Company Law, of Japan, a holder of shares consistingconstituting less than a full unit may require the Company to purchase such shares at their market value (see “Common Stock—Unit share system” in Section B of Item 10). During the year ended March 31, 2009,2010, the Company purchased 1,057,20853,163 shares for a total purchase price of 2,069,369,13371,752,498 yen upon such requests from holders of shares consistingconstituting less than one full unit.

 

The Directors, Corporate Auditors, Executive Officers and Executive Counselors in Japan are eligible to participate in the Panasonic Corporation Directors and Executive Officers Shareholding Association, which is an affiliated purchaser, and the Association purchases shares of the Company’s common stock on their behalf. During the year ended March 31, 2009,2010, the Association purchased 183,078190,802 shares for a total purchase price of 287,341,005 yen.

 

The information for the period “November“May 1 – 30, 2008”31, 2009” in the above table includes the purchase by the Company of 184,000700 shares of its common stock from a certain shareholder at a price of 1,9001,127 yen per share in November 2008.May 2009. This purchase relates to the merger of a wholly-owned Japanese subsidiary into the Company, which was conducted through the procedures provided under the Company Law of Japan and became effective on October 1, 2008.Law. This shareholder followed the procedures provided under the Company Law to require the Company to purchase histhe shares of its common stock.


- 87 -

 

Item 16F.Change in Registrant’s Certifying Accountant

 

Not applicable

 

Item 16G.Corporate Governance

 

Companies listed on the NYSE must comply with certain standards regarding corporate governance under Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual. However, listed companies that are foreign private issuers, such as Panasonic, are permitted to follow home country practice in lieu of certain provisions of Section 303A.


- 91 -

 

The following table shows the significant differences between the corporate governance practices followed by U.S. listed companies under Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual and those followed by Panasonic.

 

Corporate Governance Practices Followed by NYSE- listed U.S. companies

 

  Corporate Governance Practices Followed by Panasonic
A NYSE-listed U.S. company must have a majority of directors meeting the independence requirements under Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual.  

The Company Law does not require independent directors on the board of directors. The Company Law has provisions for an “outside director,” whose definition is similar to, but not the same as, an independent director under the NYSE Listed Company Manual. An “outside director” is defined as a director of the company who does not engage or has not engaged in the execution of business of the company or its subsidiaries as a director of any of these corporations, and who does not serve or has not served as an executive officer, manager or in any other capacity as an employee of the company or its subsidiaries. A Japanese joint stock corporation with corporate auditors, such as Panasonic, is not obliged under the Company Law to have any outside directors on its board of directors.

 

However, Panasonic had two (2) outside Directors as of June 25, 2009.2010. In addition, pursuant to recent amendments to the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges, Panasonic is required to have one or more “independent director(s)/corporate auditor(s)” which terms are defined under the relevant regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges as “outside directors” or “outside corporate auditors” (each of which terms is defined under the Company Law) who are unlikely to have any conflict of interests with shareholders of Panasonic. The definition of the “independent director/corporate auditor” is different from that of the independent directors under the NYSE Listed Company Manual or under Rule 10A-3 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Each of the outside directors and outside corporate auditors of Panasonic satisfies the requirements for the “independent director/corporate auditor” under the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges, respectively. The tasks of supervising the administration of the Company’s affairs are assigned not only to the Board of Directors but also to Corporate Auditors, as more fully described below.

 

A NYSE-listed U.S. company must have an audit committee with responsibilities described under Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual, including those imposed by Rule 10A-3 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The audit committee must be composed entirely of independent directors, and the audit committee must have at least three (3) members and satisfy the requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  

A Japanese joint stock corporation is not required to have any audit, nominating and compensation committees, except for a “joint stock corporation with specified committees,” which is a corporate governance system that may be adopted by Japanese joint stock corporations meeting certain criteria.

 

Most Japanese joint stock corporations, including Panasonic, employ a corporate governance system based on corporate auditors. With this system, the tasks of supervising the administration of the company’s affairs conducted by directors are assigned not only to the board of directors but also to corporate auditors who are appointed at a general meeting of shareholders, and who are separate and independent from the board of directors. All corporate auditors must meet certain independence requirements under the Company Law. Under the Company Law, Panasonic is required to appoint at least three (3) Corporate Auditors, and at least half of Panasonic’s Corporate Auditors are required to be “Outside Corporate Auditors” who must meet additional independence requirements. An “outside corporate auditor” is defined as a corporate auditor of the Company who has never been as a director, accounting counselor, executive officer, manager or in any other capacity as an employee of the company or any of its subsidiaries prior to the appointment. Under the Company Law, Panasonic is required to establish a Board of Corporate Auditors, comprising all the Company’s Corporate Auditors.

 


- 88 -

As of June 25, 2009,2010, Panasonic had five (5) Corporate Auditors, of which three (3) were Outside Corporate Auditors. Each Corporate Auditor of Panasonic has a four-year term. In contrast, the term of each Director of Panasonic is one year. Corporate Auditors are obliged to attend the meetings of the Board of Directors and express their opinion at the meetings if necessary. The Board of Corporate Auditors and Corporate Auditors have a statutory duty to supervise the administration of the Company’s affairs by Directors. The Board of Corporate Auditors has a statutory duty to, based on the reports prepared by respective Corporate Auditors, prepare and submit its audit report to Accounting Auditors and the Directors who prepared the financial statements and the business report. A copy of the audit report is included in the appendix to the convocation notice of the ordinary general meeting of shareholders.

 

A Corporate Auditor also has a statutory duty to examine the financial statements of Panasonic, and receives auditors’ reports from an accounting auditor (a certified public accountant or an accounting firm). The Board of Corporate Auditors has the power to request that Panasonic’s Directors submit a proposal for dismissal of an accounting auditor to a general meeting of shareholders. The Board of Corporate Auditors also has the power to directly dismiss an accounting auditor under certain conditions. Panasonic’s Directors must obtain the consent of its Board of Corporate Auditors in order to submit a proposal for election, dismissal and/or non-reelection of an accounting auditor to a general meeting of shareholders.

 

With respect to the requirements of Rule 10A-3 under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934 relating to listed company audit committees, Panasonic relies on an exemption under that rule which is available to foreign private issuers with a board of corporate auditors meeting certain requirements. In addition, each of the outside corporate auditors of Panasonic satisfies the requirements for the “independent director/corporate auditor” under the regulations of the Japanese stock exchanges as described above.

 


- 92 -

A NYSE-listed U.S. company must have a nominating/corporate governance committee with responsibilities described under Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual. The nominating/corporate governance committee must be composed entirely of independent directors.  

Under the Company Law, Panasonic’s Directors must be elected and/or dismissed at a general meeting of shareholders. The Board of Directors nominates Director candidates and submits a proposal for election of directors to a general meeting of shareholders. The Board of Directors does not have the power to fill vacancies thereon.

 

Panasonic’s Corporate Auditors must also be elected and/or dismissed at a general meeting of shareholders. Panasonic’s Directors must obtain the consent of the Board of Corporate Auditors in order to submit a proposal for election and/or dismissal of a Corporate Auditor to a general meeting of shareholders. Each of the Corporate Auditors has the right to state his/her opinion concerning the election, dismissal and/or resignation of any Corporate Auditor, including himself/herself, at a general meeting of shareholders. The Board of Corporate Auditors is also empowered to request Directors to submit a proposal for election of a specific person as a Corporate Auditor to a general meeting of shareholders.

 


- 89 -

A NYSE-listed U.S. company must have a compensation committee with responsibilities described under Section 303A of the NYSE Listed Company Manual. The compensation committee must be composed entirely of independent directors.  

Under the Company Law, the maximum amounts of remunerations, including equity compensation such as stock options, bonuses, and other financial benefits given in consideration of performance of duties (collectively, the “remunerations”) of directors and corporate auditors of Japanese joint stock corporations, except for a “joint stock corporation with specified committees,” must be approved at a general meeting of shareholders. Companies must also obtain the approval at a general meeting of shareholders to change such maximum amounts. Therefore, the remunerations of the directors and corporate auditors are subject to the approval of shareholders.

 

The maximum total amounts of remunerations for Directors and Corporate Auditors of Panasonic is therefore determined by a resolution at a general meeting of shareholders, and thus remunerations of the Directors and Corporate Auditors of Panasonic are under the oversight of shareholders. The remuneration amount for each Director is determined by Panasonic’s Representative Directors who are delegated to make such determination by the Board of Directors, and the amount of remuneration for each Corporate Auditor is determined upon discussions amongst the Corporate Auditors.

 

A NYSE-listed U.S. company must generally obtain shareholder approval with respect to any equity compensation plan.  

Pursuant to the Company Law, if a Japanese joint stock corporation, such as Panasonic, desires to adopt an equity compensation plan under which stock acquisition rights are granted on specially favorable conditions (except where such rights are granted to all shareholders on a pro rata basis), such plan must be approved by a “special resolution” of a general meeting of shareholders that satisfies the prescribed quorum. (In the case of Panasonic, such quorum is one-thirdone- third of the total number of voting rights and the approval of at least two-thirds of the voting rights represented at the meeting is required as provided by Panasonic’s Articles of Incorporation pursuant to the Company Law.)

 


- 9093 -

 

PART III

 

 

Item 17.Financial Statements

 

 

Not applicable

 

 

Item 18.Financial Statements

 

 

Index of Consolidated Financial Statements of Panasonic Corporation and Subsidiaries:

 

   Page

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  9194

Consolidated Balance Sheets as of March 31, 20092010 and 20082009

  9396

Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

  9598

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

  9699

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

  98101

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

  100103

 

Schedule for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007:2008:

 

Schedule II      Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

  145156

 

All other schedules are omitted as permitted by the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission as the required information is presented in the consolidated financial statements or notes thereto, or the schedules are not applicable.


- 9194 -

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Panasonic Corporation:

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated financial statementsbalance sheets of Panasonic Corporation and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as listedof March 31, 2010 and 2009, and the related consolidated statements of operations, equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the accompanying index. In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we also have audited the financial statement schedule as listed in the accompanying index.three-year period ended March 31, 2010. These consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Panasonic Corporation and subsidiaries as of March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2009,2010, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Also in our opinion, the related financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic consolidated statements taken as a whole, present fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), Panasonic Corporation and subsidiaries’Corporation’s internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2009,2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control-IntegratedControl – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria)(COSO), and our report dated June 30, 20092010 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

As discussed in Note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company changed its method of accounting for noncontrolling interests with the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No. 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment of ARB No. 51 (codified in FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 810, Consolidation), its method of accounting for business combinations with the adoption of Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement No.141R, Business Combinations (codified in FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 805, Business Combinations), and its method of computing depreciation effective April 1, 2009.

 

KPMG AZSA & Co.

 

Osaka, Japan

June 30, 20092010


- 9295 -

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

The Board of Directors and Stockholders

Panasonic Corporation:

 

We have audited Panasonic Corporation and subsidiaries’ Internal Control(the “Company”) internal control over Financial Reportingfinancial reporting as of March 31, 2009,2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control-IntegratedControl – Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (the COSO criteria)(COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control overOver Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

In our opinion, Panasonic Corporation and subsidiariesthe Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2009,2010, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework issued by the COSO criteria.Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements and the related financial statement schedulebalance sheets of Panasonic Corporation and subsidiaries as of March 31, 2010 and 2009, and 2008, and the resultsrelated consolidated statements of their operations, equity, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended March 31, 2009,2010, and our report dated June 30, 20092010 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.

 

KPMG AZSA & Co.

 

Osaka, Japan

June 30, 20092010


- 9396 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

March 31, 20092010 and 20082009

 

   Yen (millions)

 

      Assets      


  2009

  2008

 

Current assets:

       

Cash and cash equivalents (Note 8)

  973,867   1,214,816  

Time deposits (Note 8)

  189,288   70,108  

Short-term investments (Notes 4 and 17)

  1,998   47,414  

Trade receivables (Note 15):

       

Related companies (Note 3)

  16,178   33,874  

Notes

  42,582   58,484  

Accounts

  727,504   1,013,693  

Allowance for doubtful receivables

  (21,131 (20,868
   

 

Net trade receivables

  765,133   1,085,183  
   

 

Inventories (Note 2)

  771,137   864,264  

Other current assets (Notes 10, 16 and 17)

  493,271   517,409  
   

 

Total current assets

  3,194,694   3,799,194  
   

 

Investments and advances:

       

Associated companies (Notes 3 and 17)

  123,959   153,668  

Other investments and advances (Notes 4, 8 and 17)

  427,792   688,488  
   

 

Total investments and advances

  551,751   842,156  
   

 

Property, plant and equipment (Notes 5, 6 and 8):

       

Land

  298,346   308,365  

Buildings

  1,532,359   1,559,357  

Machinery and equipment

  2,229,123   2,592,229  

Construction in progress

  213,617   120,026  
   

 

   4,273,445   4,579,977  

Less accumulated depreciation

  2,698,615   2,822,604  
   

 

Net property, plant and equipment

  1,574,830   1,757,373  
   

 

Other assets:

       

Goodwill (Note 7)

  410,792   429,902  

Intangible assets (Notes 6 and 7)

  120,712   128,917  

Other assets (Notes 9 and 10)

  550,537   486,072  
   

 

Total other assets

  1,082,041   1,044,891  
   

 

   6,403,316   7,443,614  
   

 

   Yen (millions)

 

Assets


  2010

  2009

 

Current assets:

       

Cash and cash equivalents (Note 9)

  1,109,912   973,867  

Time deposits (Note 9)

  92,032   189,288  

Short-term investments (Notes 5 and 18)

  —     1,998  

Trade receivables (Note 16):

       

Related companies (Note 4)

  37,940   16,178  

Notes

  74,028   42,582  

Accounts (Note 17)

  1,097,230   727,504  

Allowance for doubtful receivables

  (24,158 (21,131
   

 

Net trade receivables

  1,185,040   765,133  
   

 

Inventories (Note 3)

  913,646   771,137  

Other current assets (Notes 11, 17 and 18)

  505,418   493,271  
   

 

Total current assets

  3,806,048   3,194,694  
   

 

Investments and advances:

       

Associated companies (Notes 4 and 18)

  177,128   123,959  

Other investments and advances (Notes 5, 9 and 18)

  459,634   427,792  
   

 

Total investments and advances

  636,762   551,751  
   

 

Property, plant and equipment (Notes 6, 7, 9 and 18):

       

Land

  391,394   298,346  

Buildings

  1,767,674   1,532,359  

Machinery and equipment

  2,303,633   2,229,123  

Construction in progress

  128,826   213,617  
   

 

   4,591,527   4,273,445  

Less accumulated depreciation

  2,635,506   2,698,615  
   

 

Net property, plant and equipment

  1,956,021   1,574,830  
   

 

Other assets:

       

Goodwill (Notes 8 and 18)

  923,001   410,792  

Intangible assets (Notes 7, 8 and 18)

  604,865   120,712  

Other assets (Notes 10 and 11)

  431,360   550,537  
   

 

Total other assets

  1,959,226   1,082,041  
   

 

   8,358,057   6,403,316  
   

 

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


- 9497 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

March 31, 20092010 and 20082009

 

   Yen (millions)

 

                    Liabilities, Minority Interests and Stockholders’ Equity                    


  2009

  2008

 

Current liabilities:

       

Short-term borrowings, including current portion of long-term debt (Notes 5, 8 and 17)

  94,355   156,260  

Trade payables:

       

Related companies (Note 3)

  58,315   71,384  

Notes

  38,196   37,172  

Accounts

  582,857   831,998  
   

 

Total trade payables

  679,368   940,554  
   

 

Accrued income taxes (Note 10)

  26,139   58,943  

Accrued payroll

  115,845   134,255  

Other accrued expenses (Note 18)

  672,836   784,538  

Deposits and advances from customers

  60,935   78,494  

Employees’ deposits

  269   355  

Other current liabilities (Notes 9, 10, 16 and 17)

  350,681   407,560  
   

 

Total current liabilities

  2,000,428   2,560,959  
   

 

Noncurrent liabilities:

       

Long-term debt (Notes 5, 8 and 17)

  651,310   232,346  

Retirement and severance benefits (Note 9)

  404,367   238,396  

Other liabilities (Note 10)

  134,630   154,964  
   

 

Total noncurrent liabilities

  1,190,307   625,706  
   

 

Minority interests

  428,601   514,620  

Stockholders’ equity:

       

Common stock (Note 11):

       

Authorized     - 4,950,000,000 shares

       

Issued             - 2,453,053,497 shares (2,453,053,497 shares in 2008)

  258,740   258,740  

Capital surplus (Note 11)

  1,217,764   1,217,865  

Legal reserve (Note 11)

  92,726   90,129  

Retained earnings (Note 11)

  2,479,416   2,948,065  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Notes 4, 9, 12 and 16):

       

Cumulative translation adjustments

  (341,592 (228,792

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of available-for-sale securities

  (10,563 45,442  

Unrealized gains (losses) of derivative instruments

  (4,889 4,326  

Pension liability adjustments

  (237,333 5,127  
   

 

Total accumulated other comprehensive loss

  (594,377 (173,897
   

 

Treasury stock, at cost (Note 11):

       

382,411,876 shares (351,936,341 shares in 2008)

  (670,289 (598,573
   

 

Total stockholders’ equity

  2,783,980   3,742,329  

Commitments and contingent liabilities (Note 18)

       
   

 

   6,403,316   7,443,614  
   

 

   Yen (millions)

 

    Liabilities and Equity    


  2010

  2009

 

Current liabilities:

       

Short-term debt, including current portion of long-term debt (Notes 6, 9 and 18)

  299,064   94,355  

Trade payables:

       

Related companies (Note 4)

  66,596   58,315  

Notes

  59,516   38,196  

Accounts (Note 17)

  945,334   582,857  
   

 

Total trade payables

  1,071,446   679,368  
   

 

Accrued income taxes (Note 11)

  39,154   26,139  

Accrued payroll

  149,218   115,845  

Other accrued expenses (Note 19)

  826,051   672,836  

Deposits and advances from customers

  64,046   60,935  

Employees’ deposits

  10,009   269  

Other current liabilities (Notes 10, 11, 17 and 18)

  356,875   350,681  
   

 

Total current liabilities

  2,815,863   2,000,428  
   

 

Noncurrent liabilities:

       

Long-term debt (Notes 6, 9 and 18)

  1,028,928   651,310  

Retirement and severance benefits (Note 10)

  435,799   404,367  

Other liabilities (Note 11)

  397,694   134,630  
   

 

Total noncurrent liabilities

  1,862,421   1,190,307  
   

 

Panasonic Corporation shareholders’ equity:

       

Common stock (Note 12):

       

Authorized    - 4,950,000,000 shares

       

Issued            - 2,453,053,497 shares (2,453,053,497 shares in 2009)

  258,740   258,740  

Capital surplus (Note 12)

  1,209,516   1,217,764  

Legal reserve (Note 12)

  93,307   92,726  

Retained earnings (Note 12)

  2,349,487   2,479,416  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Notes 5, 10, 13 and 17):

       

Cumulative translation adjustments

  (352,649 (341,592

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of available-for-sale securities

  40,700   (10,563

Unrealized gains (losses) of derivative instruments

  1,272   (4,889

Pension liability adjustments

  (137,555 (237,333
   

 

Total accumulated other comprehensive loss

  (448,232 (594,377
   

 

Treasury stock, at cost (Note 12):

       

382,448,008 shares (382,411,876 shares in 2009)

  (670,330 (670,289
   

 

Total Panasonic Corporation shareholders’ equity

  2,792,488   2,783,980  
   

 

Noncontrolling interests

  887,285   428,601  
   

 

   3,679,773   3,212,581  

Commitments and contingent liabilities (Notes 6 and 19)

       
   

 

   8,358,057   6,403,316  
   

 

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


- 9598 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Operations

 

Years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Revenues, costs and expenses:

      

Net sales:

      

Related companies (Note 3)

  223,231   371,216   250,863  

Related companies (Note 4)

  209,938   223,231   371,216  

Other

  7,542,276   8,697,712   8,857,307    7,208,042   7,542,276   8,697,712  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total net sales

  7,765,507   9,068,928   9,108,170    7,417,980   7,765,507   9,068,928  

Cost of sales (Notes 3, 15 and 16)

  (5,667,287 (6,377,240 (6,394,418

Selling, general and administrative expenses (Note 15)

  (2,025,347 (2,172,207 (2,254,211

Cost of sales (Notes 4, 16 and 17)

  (5,341,059 (5,667,287 (6,377,240

Selling, general and administrative expenses (Note 16)

  (1,886,468 (2,025,347 (2,172,207

Interest income

  23,477   34,371   30,553    12,348   23,477   34,371  

Dividends received

  11,486   10,317   7,597    6,746   11,486   10,317  

Other income (Notes 4, 5 and 16)

  52,709   70,460   114,545  

Other income (Notes 5, 6 and 17)

  47,896   52,709   70,460  

Interest expense

  (19,386 (20,357 (20,906  (25,718 (19,386 (20,357

Goodwill impairment

  —     —     (30,496

Other deductions (Notes 3, 4, 6, 7, 14, 15, 16 and 17)

  (523,793 (179,279 (121,690

Other deductions (Notes 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 15, 16, 17 and 18)

  (261,040 (523,793 (179,279
  

 

 

  

 

 

Income (loss) before income taxes

  (382,634 434,993   439,144    (29,315 (382,634 434,993  

Provision for income taxes (Note 10):

   

Provision for income taxes (Note 11):

   

Current

  61,840   128,181   119,465    58,147   61,840   128,181  

Deferred

  (24,482 (13,608 72,398    83,686   (24,482 (13,608
  

 

 

  

 

 

  37,358   114,573   191,863    141,833   37,358   114,573  
  

 

 

Income (loss) before minority interests and equity in earnings (losses) of associated companies

  (419,992 320,420   247,281  

Minority interests

  (24,882 28,637   31,131  

Equity in earnings (losses) of associated companies (Note 3)

  16,149   (9,906 1,035  

Equity in earnings (losses) of associated companies (Note 4)

  481   16,149   (9,906
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net income (loss)

  (378,961 281,877   217,185    (170,667 (403,843 310,514  

Less net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (67,202 (24,882 28,637  
  

 

 

Net income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation

  (103,465 (378,961 281,877  
  

 

 

  

 

 

  Yen

   Yen

 

Net income (loss) per share of common stock (Note 13):

   

Net income (loss) per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders (Note 14):

   

Basic

  (182.25 132.90   99.50    (49.97 (182.25 132.90  

Diluted

  (182.25 132.90   99.50    —     (182.25 132.90  

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


- 9699 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

 

Years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Common stock (Note 11):

   

Common stock (Note 12):

   

Balance at beginning of year

  258,740   258,740   258,740    258,740   258,740   258,740  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  258,740   258,740   258,740    258,740   258,740   258,740  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Capital surplus (Note 11):

   

Capital surplus (Note 12):

   

Balance at beginning of year

  1,217,865   1,220,967   1,234,289    1,217,764   1,217,865   1,220,967  

Sale of treasury stock

  (101 59   96    (8 (101 59  

Decrease from issuance of new shares by a subsidiary

  —     (3,161 —      —     —     (3,161

Other

  —     —     (13,418

Equity transactions with noncontrolling interests and others

  (8,240 —     —    
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  1,217,764   1,217,865   1,220,967    1,209,516   1,217,764   1,217,865  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Legal reserve (Note 11):

   

Legal reserve (Note 12):

   

Balance at beginning of year

  90,129   88,588   87,526    92,726   90,129   88,588  

Transfer from retained earnings

  2,597   1,541   1,062    581   2,597   1,541  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  92,726   90,129   88,588    93,307   92,726   90,129  
  

 

 

Retained earnings (Note 11):

   
��  

 

 

Retained earnings (Note 12):

   

Balance at beginning of year prior to adjustment

  2,948,065   2,737,024   2,575,890    2,479,416   2,948,065   2,737,024  

Effects of changing the pension plan measurement date pursuant to the provisions of SFAS No.158 (Note 9)

  (3,727 —     —    

Effects of changing the pension plan measurement date, net of tax (Note 10)

  —     (3,727 —    
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at beginning of year as adjusted

  2,944,338   2,737,024   2,575,890    2,479,416   2,944,338   2,737,024  

Net income (loss)

  (378,961 281,877   217,185  

Cash dividends

  (83,364 (69,295 (54,989

Net income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation

  (103,465 (378,961 281,877  

Cash dividends to Panasonic Corporation stockholders

  (25,883 (83,364 (69,295

Transfer to legal reserve

  (2,597 (1,541 (1,062  (581 (2,597 (1,541
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  2,479,416   2,948,065   2,737,024    2,349,487   2,479,416   2,948,065  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 12):

   

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (Note 13):

   

Balance at beginning of year prior to adjustment

  (173,897 107,097   (26,119  (594,377 (173,897 107,097  

Effects of changing the pension plan measurement date pursuant to the provisions of SFAS No.158, net of tax (Note 9)

  (73,571 —     —    

Effects of changing the pension plan measurement date, net of tax (Note 10)

  —     (73,571 —    
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at beginning of year as adjusted

  (247,468 107,097   (26,119  (594,377 (247,468 107,097  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax

  (346,909 (280,994 72,085    146,145   (346,909 (280,994

Adjustment to initially apply SFAS No.158, net of tax

  —     —     61,131  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  (594,377 (173,897 107,097    (448,232 (594,377 (173,897
  

 

 

  

 

 

Treasury stock (Note 12):

   

Balance at beginning of year

  (670,289 (598,573 (495,675

Repurchase of common stock

  (72 (72,416 (103,112

Sale of treasury stock

  31   700   214  
  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  (670,330 (670,289 (598,573
  

 

 

 

(Continued)


- 97100 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Stockholders’ Equity

 

Years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Treasury stock (Note 11):

   

Balance at beginning of year

  (598,573 (495,675 (342,705

Repurchase of common stock

  (72,416 (103,112 (153,179

Sale of treasury stock

  700   214   209  

Noncontrolling interests:

   

Balance at beginning of year prior to adjustment

  428,601   514,620   551,154  

Effects of changing the pension plan measurement date, net of tax (Note 10)

  —     (3 —    
  

 

 

Balance at beginning of year as adjusted

  428,601   514,617   551,154  

Cash dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

  (14,619 (20,803 (19,807

Acquisition transaction

  532,360   —     29,248  

Issuance of shares by subsidiaries

  —     —     40,000  

Change in consolidated subsidiaries

  —     —     (90,470

Equity transactions with noncontrolling interests and others

  (2,402 (1,422 (3,520

Net income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (67,202 (24,882 28,637  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

   

Translation adjustments

  1,238   (18,043 (8,260

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of available-for-sale securities

  2,378   (1,619 (3,806

Unrealized gains (losses) of derivative instruments

  68   (12 332  

Pension liability adjustments

  6,863   (19,235 (8,888
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  (670,289 (598,573 (495,675  887,285   428,601   514,620  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Disclosure of comprehensive income (loss) (Note 12):

   

Disclosure of comprehensive income (loss):

   

Net income (loss)

  (378,961 281,877   217,185    (170,667 (403,843 310,514  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

      

Translation adjustments

  (112,800 (129,254 62,793    (9,819 (130,843 (137,514

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of available-for-sale securities

  (56,005 (115,389 15,525    53,641   (57,624 (119,195

Unrealized gains (losses) of derivative instruments

  (9,215 3,464   (464  6,229   (9,227 3,796  

Minimum pension liability adjustments

  —     —     (5,769

Pension liability adjustments

  (168,889 (39,815 —      106,641   (188,124 (48,703
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total comprehensive income (loss)

  (725,870 883   289,270  

Comprehensive income (loss)

  (13,975 (789,661 8,898  

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests

  (56,655 (63,791 8,015  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation

  42,680   (725,870 883  
  

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


- 98101 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

Years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Cash flows from operating activities (Note 15):

   

Cash flows from operating activities (Note 16):

   

Net income (loss)

  (378,961 281,877   217,185    (170,667 (403,843 310,514  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:

      

Depreciation and amortization

  364,806   320,534   317,685    298,270   364,806   320,534  

Net gain on sale of investments

  (13,512 (14,402 (40,154  (5,137 (13,512 (14,402

Provision for doubtful receivables

  10,538   6,008   3,203    10,862   10,538   6,008  

Deferred income taxes

  (24,482 (13,608 72,398    83,686   (24,482 (13,608

Write-down of investment securities (Notes 3, 4 and 17)

  92,016   31,842   3,148  

Impairment loss on long-lived assets (Notes 6 and 7)

  313,466   44,627   49,175  

Minority interests

  (24,882 28,637   31,131  

(Increase) decrease in trade receivables

  249,123   (56,677 50,012  

(Increase) decrease in inventories

  21,011   (37,372 474  

(Increase) decrease in other current assets

  30,279   39,602   64,074  

Increase (decrease) in trade payables

  (199,176 (41,568 (61,630

Increase (decrease) in accrued income taxes

  (33,358 5,765   9,773  

Increase (decrease) in accrued expenses and other current liabilities

  (157,660 9,973   (39,774

Increase (decrease) in retirement and severance benefits

  (107,196 (128,937 (108,559

Increase (decrease) in deposits and advances from customers

  (21,191 (15,915 (12,223

Write-down of investment securities (Notes 4, 5 and 18)

  6,944   92,016   31,842  

Impairment loss on long-lived assets (Notes 7 and 8)

  83,004   313,466   44,627  

Cash effects of changes in, excluding acquisition:

   

Trade receivables

  (119,966 249,123   (56,677

Inventories

  100,576   21,011   (37,372

Other current assets

  24,151   30,279   39,602  

Trade payables

  83,719   (199,176 (41,568

Accrued income taxes

  6,706   (33,358 5,765  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

  102,743   (157,660 9,973  

Retirement and severance benefits

  (8,655 (107,196 (128,937

Deposits and advances from customers

  (7,368 (21,191 (15,915

Other

  (4,174 5,672   (23,361  33,465   (4,174 5,672  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net cash provided by operating activities

  116,647   466,058   532,557    522,333   116,647   466,058  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities (Note 15):

   

Cash flows from investing activities (Note 16):

   

Proceeds from sale of short-term investments

  —     697   31,014    6,442   —     697  

Purchase of short-term investments

  —     —     (4,509  (6,369 —     —    

Proceeds from disposition of investments and advances

  221,127   313,947   142,074    61,302   221,127   313,947  

Increase in investments and advances

  (34,749 (160,423 (290,046  (8,855 (34,749 (160,423

Capital expenditures

  (521,580 (418,730 (411,309  (375,648 (521,580 (418,730

Proceeds from disposals of property, plant and equipment

  40,476   151,279   182,892    117,857   40,476   151,279  

(Increase) decrease in time deposits

  (136,248 166,750   (223,801  99,274   (136,248 166,750  

Purchase of shares of newly consolidated subsidiaries

  —     (68,309 —    

Proceeds from sale of shares of subsidiaries and dividends received

  —     —     40,548  

Purchase of shares of newly consolidated subsidiaries, net of acquired companies’ cash and cash equivalents (Note 2)

  (174,808 —     (68,309

Other

  (38,503 (46,582 (34,671  (42,854 (38,503 (46,582
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net cash used in investing activities

  (469,477 (61,371 (567,808  (323,659 (469,477 (61,371
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

(Continued)


- 99102 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

Years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Cash flows from financing activities (Note 15):

   

Increase (decrease) in short-term borrowings

  (34,476 (5,815 (5,826

Increase (decrease) in employees’ deposits

  (86 (252 (13,951

Cash flows from financing activities (Note 16):

   

Increase (decrease) in short-term debt

  (3,360 (34,476 (5,815

Proceeds from long-term debt

  442,515   1,344   33,636    53,172   442,515   1,344  

Repayments of long-term debt

  (83,257 (46,750 (217,414  (54,780 (83,257 (46,750

Dividends paid (Note 11)

  (83,364 (69,295 (54,989

Dividends paid to minority interests

  (20,803 (19,807 (16,285

Repurchase of common stock (Note 11)

  (72,416 (103,112 (153,179

Sale of treasury stock (Note 11)

  599   273   305  

Dividends paid to Panasonic Corporation shareholders (Note 12)

  (25,883 (83,364 (69,295

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

  (14,619 (20,803 (19,807

Repurchase of common stock (Note 12)

  (72 (72,416 (103,112

Sale of treasury stock (Note 12)

  23   599   273  

Purchase of noncontrolling interests

  (11,095 —     —    

Proceeds from issuance of shares by subsidiaries

  —     39,866   —      —     —     39,866  

Other

  (359 (86 (252
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

  148,712   (203,548 (427,703  (56,973 148,712   (203,548
  

 

 

  

 

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

  (36,831 (129,521 32,197    (5,656 (36,831 (129,521

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries (Note 15)

  —     (93,441 —    

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries (Note 16)

  —     —     (93,441
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

  (240,949 (21,823 (430,757  136,045   (240,949 (21,823

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

  1,214,816   1,236,639   1,667,396    973,867   1,214,816   1,236,639  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year

  973,867   1,214,816   1,236,639    1,109,912   973,867   1,214,816  
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.


- 100103 -

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

 

(1)Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

 

 (a)Description of Business

 

From October 1, 2008, the name of Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd. was changed to Panasonic Corporation. Panasonic Corporation (hereinafter, the “Company,” including consolidated subsidiaries, unless the context otherwise requires) is one of the world’s leading producers of electronic and electric products. The Company currently offers a comprehensive range of products, systems and components for consumer, business and industrial use based on sophisticated electronics and precision technology, expanding to building materials and equipment, and housing business.

 

Sales by product category in fiscal 20092010 were as follows: Digital AVC Networks—45%43%, Home Appliances—15%, PEW and PanaHome*—20%, Components and Devices—12%11%, SANYO*—5%, and Other—8%6%. A sales breakdown in fiscal 20092010 by geographical market was as follows: Japan—53%54%, North and South America—13%12%, Europe—12%11%, and Asia and Others—22%23%.

 

The Company is not dependent on a single supplier, and has no significant difficulty in obtaining raw materials from suppliers.

 

*  PEW stands for Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. and PanaHome stands for PanaHome Corporation. From October 1, 2008, the name of MatsushitaSANYO stands for SANYO Electric Works, Ltd. (MEW) was changed to Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. (PEW).

 

 (b)Basis of Presentation of Consolidated Financial Statements

 

The Company and its domestic subsidiaries maintain their books of account in conformity with financial accounting standards of Japan, and its foreign subsidiaries in conformity with those of the countries of their domicile.

 

The consolidated financial statements presented herein have been prepared in a manner and reflect adjustments which are necessary to conform with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

 (c)Principles of Consolidation

 

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its majority-owned, controlled subsidiaries. The Company also consolidates entities in which controlling interest exists through variable interests in accordance with the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Interpretation No. 46 (revised December 2003), “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities” (FIN 46R).Accounting Standards Codification (ASC) 810, “Consolidation.” Investments in companies and joint ventures over which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence (generally through a voting interest of between 20% to 50%) are included in “Investments and advances—Associated companies” in the consolidated balance sheets. All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.


- 101104 -

 

 (d)Revenue Recognition

 

The Company generates revenue principally through the sale of consumer and industrial products, equipment, and supplies. The Company recognizes revenue when persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred, and title and risk of loss have been transferred to the customer or services have been rendered, the sales price is fixed or determinable, and collectibility is reasonably assured.

 

Revenue from sales of products is generally recognized when the products are received by customers. Revenue from sales of certain products with customer acceptance provisions related to their functionality is recognized when the product is received by the customer and the specific criteria of the product functionality are successfully tested and demonstrated.

 

The Company enters into arrangements with multiple elements, which may include any combination of products, equipment, installation and maintenance. The Company allocates revenue to each element based on its relative fair value if such element meets the criteria for treatment as a separate unit of accounting as prescribed in the Emerging Issues Task Force (EITF) Issue 00-21,provisions of ASC 605, “Revenue Arrangements with Multiple Deliverables.Recognition.” Product revenue is generally recognized upon completion of installation or upon shipment if installation is not required. Maintenance revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the term of the maintenance agreement.

 

The Company’s policy is to accept product returns only in the case that the products are defective. The Company issues contractual product warranties under which it guarantees the performance of products delivered and services rendered for a certain period of time. A liability for the estimated product warranty related cost is established at the time revenue is recognized, and is included in “Other accrued expenses.” Estimates for accrued warranty cost are primarily based on historical experience and current information on repair cost.

 

Historically, the Company has made certain allowances related to sales to its consumer business distributors. Such allowances are generally provided to compensate the distributors for a decline in the product’s value, and are classified as a reduction of revenue on the consolidated statements of operations. Estimated price adjustments are accrued when the related sales are recognized. The estimate is made based primarily on the historical experience or specific arrangements made with the distributors.

 

The Company also occasionally offers incentive programs to its distributors in the form of rebates. These rebates are accrued at the laterlatter of the date at which the related revenue is recognized or the date at which the incentive is offered, and are recorded as reductions of sales in accordance with EITF Issue 01-09, “Accounting for Consideration Given by a Vendor to a Customer (Including a Resellerin the provisions of the Vendor’s Products).”ASC 605.

 

Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are accounted for on a net basis and therefore are excluded from revenues in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

 (e)Leases (See Note 5)6)

 

The Company accounts for leases in accordance with Statementthe provisions of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 13, “Accounting for Leases.ASC 840, “Leases.” Leases of the assets under certain conditions are recorded as capital leases in property, plant and equipment in the consolidated balance sheets.


- 102105 -

 

 (f)Inventories (See Note 2)3)

 

Finished goods and work in process are stated at the lower of cost (average) or market. Raw materials are stated at cost, principally on a first-in, first-out basis or average basis, not in excess of current replacement cost.

 

 (g)Foreign Currency Translation (See Note 12)13)

 

Foreign currency financial statements are translated in accordance with SFAS No. 52,the provisions of ASC 830, “Foreign Currency Translation,Matters,” under which all assets and liabilities are translated into yen at year-end rates and income and expense accounts are translated at weighted-average rates. Adjustments resulting from the translation of financial statements are reflected under the caption, “Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss),” a separate component of stockholders’ equity.

 

 (h)Property, Plant and Equipment

 

Property, plant and equipment is stated at cost. Depreciation is computed primarily using the declining balancestraight-line method based on the following estimated useful lives:

 

Buildings ......................................................................................................................................

  5 to 50 years

Machinery and equipment ................................................................................

  2 to 10 years

Effective April 1, 2009, the Company and certain of its domestic subsidiaries changed their depreciation method from the declining-balance method to the straight-line method. The Company believes that the straight-line method better reflects the pattern of consumption of the future benefits to be derived from those assets being depreciated and provides a better matching of costs and revenues over the assets’ estimated useful lives. Under the provisions of ASC 250, “Accounting Changes and Error Corrections,” a change in depreciation method is treated on a prospective basis as a change in estimate and prior period results have not been restated. The change in depreciation method caused a decrease in depreciation expense by 11,031 million yen for the year ended March 31, 2010. Net loss attributable to Panasonic Corporation and basic net loss per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders decreased by 6,861 million yen and 3.31 yen, respectively, for the year ended March 31, 2010. Impact on diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders for the year ended March 31, 2010 has been omitted because the Company did not have potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding for the period.

 

 (i)Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (See Notes 67 and 7)8)

 

Goodwill represents the excess of costs over the fair value of net assets of businesses acquired. The Company adopted the provisions of SFAS No. 142, “GoodwillASC 350, “Intangibles—Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.Other.” Goodwill and intangible assets determined to have an indefinite useful life are not amortized, and are instead reviewed for impairment at least annually based on assessment of current estimated fair value of the intangible asset. The goodwill impairment test is a two-step test. Under the first step, the fair value of the reporting unit is compared with its carrying value (including goodwill). If the fair value of the reporting unit is less than its carrying value, an indication of goodwill impairment exists for the reporting unit and the enterprise must perform the second step of the impairment test (measurement). If the fair value of the reporting unit exceeds its carrying amount, the second step does not need to be performed. Under the second step, an impairment loss is recognized for any excess of the carrying amount of the reporting unit’s goodwill over the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill is determined by allocating the fair value of the reporting unit in a manner similar to a purchase price allocation in business combinations. The residual fair value after this allocation is the implied fair value of the reporting unit goodwill. Fair value of the reporting unit is determined using a guideline merged and acquired company method, guideline public company method, and a discounted cash flow analysis. SFAS No. 142The provisions of ASC 350 also requires that intangible assets with estimable useful lives be amortized over their respective estimated useful lives to their estimated residual values, and reviewed for impairment based on an assessment of the undiscounted cash flows expected by the asset.asset, whenever impairment indications are presented. An impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset.


- 103106 -

 

 (j)Investments and Advances (See Notes 3, 4, 125, 13 and 17)18)

 

Investments and advances primarily consist of investments in and advances to associated companies, cost method investments, available-for-sale securities, and long-term deposits. Cost method investments and long-term deposits are recorded at historical cost.

 

The equity method is used to account for investments in associated companies in which the Company exerts significant influence, generally having a 20% to 50% voting interest, and corporate joint ventures. The Company also uses the equity method for certain investees if the minority shareholders have substantive participating rights. Under the equity method of accounting, investments are stated at their underlying net equity value after elimination of intercompany profits. The cost method is used when the Company does not have significant influence.

 

The excess of cost of the stock of the associated companies over the Company’s share of their net assets at the acquisition date, included in the equity investment balance, is recognized as equity method goodwill. Such equity method goodwill is not being amortized and is instead tested for impairment as part of the equity method investment.

 

The Company accounts for debt and marketable equity securities in accordance with SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in the provisions of ASC 320, “Investments—Debt and Equity Securities.”

 

SFAS No. 115 requiresThe provisions of ASC 320 require that certain investments in debt and marketable equity securities be classified as held-to-maturity, trading, or available-for-sale securities. The Company classifies its existing marketable equity securities other than investments in associated companies and all debt securities as available-for-sale. Available-for-sale securities are carried at fair value with unrealized holding gains or losses included as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of applicable taxes.

 

Realized gains and losses are determined on the average cost method and reflected in earnings.

 

On a continuous basis, but no less frequently than at the end of each semi-annual period,quarter, the Company evaluates the carrying amount of each of the investments in associated companies, cost method investments and available-for-sale securities for possible other-than-temporary impairment. Factors considered in assessing whether an indication of other-than-temporary impairment exists include the period of time the fair value has been below the carrying amount or cost basis of investment, financial condition and prospects of each investee, and other relevant factors.

 

Investments in associated companies, cost method investments and available-for-sale securities are reduced to fair value by a charge to earnings when impairment is considered to be other than temporary. Impairment is measured based on the amount by which the carrying amount or cost basis of the investment exceeds its fair value. Fair value is determined based on quoted market prices, discounted cash flows or other valuation techniques as appropriate.


- 107 -

 

 (k)Allowance for Doubtful Receivables

 

An allowance for doubtful trade receivables and advances is provided at an amount calculated based on historical experience, while specific allowances for doubtful trade receivables and advances are provided for the estimated amounts considered to be uncollectible after reviewing individual collectibility.


- 104 -

 

 (l)Income Taxes (See Note 10)11)

 

Income taxes are accounted for under the asset and liability method. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for the future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective tax bases, and operating loss and tax credit carryforwards.

 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.

 

The Company accounts for uncertainty in tax positions in accordance with FASB interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, an Interpretationthe provisions of SFAS No. 109” (FIN 48) from April 1, 2007.ASC 740, “Income Taxes.” The Company recognizes the effect of income tax positions only if those positions are more likely than not of being sustained. Recognized income tax positions are measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50% likely of being realized. Changes in recognition or measurement are reflected in the period in which the change in judgment occurs. The Company records interests and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in “Provision for income taxes—Current” in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

 (m)Advertising (See Note 15)16)

 

Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.

 

 (n)Net Income (loss) per Share (See Notes 11 and 13)Note 14)

 

The Company accounts for net income (loss) per share in accordance with SFAS No. 128,the provisions of ASC 260, “Earnings perPer Share.” This statement establishes standards for computing net income (loss) per share and requires dual presentation of basic and diluted net income (loss) per share on the face of the statements of operation for all entities with complex capital structures.

 

Under SFAS No. 128,the provisions of ASC 260, basic net income (loss) per share is computed based on the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during each period, and diluted net income (loss) per share assumes the dilution that could occur if securities or other contracts to issue common stock were exercised or converted into common stock or resulted in the issuance of common stock.

 

 (o)Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents include all highly liquid debt instruments purchased with a maturity of three months or less.


- 105108 -

 

 (p)Derivative Financial Instruments (See Notes 12, 1613, 17 and 17)18)

 

Derivative financial instruments utilized by the Company are comprised principally of foreign exchange contracts, interest rate swaps, cross currency swaps and commodity futures used to hedge currency risk and commodity price risk.

 

The Company accounts for derivative instruments in accordance with SFAS No. 133, “Accounting for Derivative Instrumentsthe provisions of ASC 815, “Derivatives and Hedging Activities,Hedging. as amended. On the date the derivative contract is entered into, the Company ordinarily designates the derivative as either a hedge of the fair value of a recognized asset or liability or of an unrecognized firm commitment (“fair-value” hedge), a hedge of a forecasted transaction or of the variability of cash flows to be received or paid related to a recognized asset or liability (“cash-flow” hedge), or a foreign-currency fair-value or cash-flow hedge (“foreign-currency” hedge). The Company formally documents all relationships between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as its risk-managementrisk management objective and strategy for undertaking various hedge transactions. The Company also formally assesses, both at the hedge’s inception and on an ongoing basis, whether the derivatives that are used in hedging transactions are highly effective in offsetting changes in fair values or cash flows of hedged items. The Company does not offset fair value of contracts in gain and loss positions.

 

Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is highly effective and that is designated and qualifies as a fair-value hedge, along with the loss or gain on the hedged asset or liability or unrecognized firm commitment of the hedged item that is attributable to the hedged risk, are recorded in earnings. Changes in the fair value of a derivative that is highly effective and that is designated and qualifies as a cash-flow hedge are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss), until earnings are affected by the variability in cash flows of the designated hedged item. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that are highly effective as hedges and that are designated and qualify as foreign-currency hedges are recorded in either earnings or other comprehensive income (loss), depending on whether the hedge transaction is a fair-value hedge or a cash-flow hedge. The ineffective portion of the change in fair value of a derivative instrument that qualifies as either a fair-value hedge or a cash-flow hedge is reported in earnings.

 

 (q)Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (See Note 6)7)

 

The Company accounts for impairment or disposition of long-lived assets in accordance with SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for Impairment or Disposalthe provisions of Long-Lived Assets.ASC 360, “Property, Plant, and Equipment.” In accordance with SFAS No. 144,the provisions of ASC 360, long-lived assets, such as property, plant and equipment, and purchased intangibles subject to amortization, are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset or asset group may not be recoverable. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by a comparison of the carrying amount of an asset to estimated undiscounted future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset. If the carrying amount of an asset exceeds its estimated future cash flows, an impairment charge is recognized for the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the fair value of the asset.


- 106 -

 

 (r)Restructuring Charges (See Note 14)15)

 

The Company accounts for costs associated with exit or disposal activities in accordance with SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exitthe provisions of ASC 420, “Exit or Disposal Activities.Cost Obligations.” Pursuant to SFAS No. 146,the provisions of ASC 420, liabilities for restructuring costs are recognized when the liability is incurred, which may be subsequent to the date when the Company has committed to a restructuring plan.


- 109 -

 

 (s)Stock-Based Compensation (See Note 11)12)

 

SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” addressesThe provisions of ASC 718, “Compensation—Stock Compensation” address accounting and disclosure requirements with measurement of the cost of employee service using a fair-value-based method of accounting for stock-based employee compensation plans.

 

 (t)Segment Information (See Note 19)20)

 

The Company accounts for segment information in accordance with SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segmentsthe provisions of an Enterprise and Related Information.ASC 280, “Segment Reporting.” Pursuant to SFAS No. 131,the provisions of ASC 280, the reporting segments are the components of the Company for which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker of the Company in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance.

 

 (u)Fair Value Measurements (See Note 18)

On April 1, 2008, the Company adopted the provisions of ASC 820, “Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures” for all financial assets and liabilities and nonfinancial items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements on a recurring basis. The provisions of ASC 820 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. On April 1, 2009, the Company adopted the provisions of ASC 820 for nonfinancial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements on a nonrecurring basis.

(v)Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of consolidated financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Significant estimates and assumptions are reflected in valuation and disclosure of revenue recognition, allowance for doubtful receivables, valuation of inventories, impairment of long-lived assets, environmental liabilities, valuation of deferred tax assets, uncertain tax positions, and employee retirement and severance benefit plans.plans, and assets acquired and liabilities assumed by business combinations.

 

 (v)(w)Adoption of New Accounting PronouncementsStandards

 

In September 2006, FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” SFAS No. 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. In February 2008, FASB issued FASB Staff Position No. 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157,” which partially delays the effective date of SFAS No. 157 by one year for certain nonfinancial assets and liabilities. On April 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157 for all financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the consolidated financial statements. The adoption of SFAS No. 157 did not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements. On April 1, 2009, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157 for all nonfinancial assets and liabilities.the provisions of ASC 805, “Business Combinations.” The adoptionprovisions of SFAS No. 157 for all nonfinancial assets and liabilities is not expected to have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.


- 107 -

In December 2007, FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations” (SFAS No. 141R) and SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements—an amendment to ARB No. 51.” SFAS No. 141R and No. 160 requireASC 805 requires most identifiable assets, liabilities, noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interests), and goodwill acquired in a business combination to be recorded at “fullfull fair value” and requirevalue. On April 1, 2009, the Company adopted the provisions of ASC 810, “Consolidation.” ASC 810 requires noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interests) to be reported as a component of equity, which changes the accounting for transactions with noncontrolling interest holders. SFAS No. 141R and No. 160 will be effective for the Company asThe provisions of April 1, 2009. SFAS No. 141R will beASC 805 is applied to business combinations occurring after the effective date. SFAS No. 160 will beThe provisions of ASC 810 is applied prospectively to all noncontrolling interests, including any that arose before the effective date and the disclosure requirement will beis applied retrospectively. The Company is currently inAs a result, the process of assessing the impact of the adoption of SFAS No. 141R and No. 160 on the Company’sprior years’ consolidated financial statements.statements have been reclassified in order to conform with the presentation used for the year ended March 31, 2010.

 

(x)Reclassifications

In December 2008, FASB issued FASB Staff Position FAS 132R-1, “Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets” (FSP FAS 132R-1). FSP FAS 132R-1 provides guidance on an employer’s disclosures about plan assets of a defined benefit pension or other postretirement plan. The disclosures about plan assets required by FSP FAS 132R-1 must be provided

Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior years’ consolidated financial statements in order to conform with the presentation used for the Company in periods beginning on or after April 1, 2009. The Company is currently in the process of assessing the impact of the adoption of FSP FAS 132R-1 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.

In April 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position FAS 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets” (FSP FAS 142-3). FSP FAS 142-3 amends the factors that should be considered in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset under SFAS No. 142. FSP FAS 142-3 will be effective for the Company as of April 1, 2009. The Company is currently in the process of assessing the impact of adoption of FSP FAS 142-3 on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.year ended March 31, 2010.


- 108110 -

 

(2)Acquisition

On December 16, 2009, the Company acquired all preferred shares of SANYO Electric Co., Ltd. (SANYO) through a tender offer. On December 21, 2009, the Company subsequently converted the preferred shares to common shares, resulting in an acquisition of 50.2% of the voting rights and a controlling interest of SANYO.

SANYO is in the business of manufacturing and sales of solar cells, rechargeable batteries, electronic devices, commercial equipment, audio-visual equipment, home appliances, and other electronic and electric products. As a result of this acquisition, a collaborating relationship between the Company and SANYO is established under the large business strategy as an united business group to generate synergy, such as the further expansion in the solar business, reinforcement of competitiveness in the rechargeable battery business, strengthening of the financial and business position of SANYO through the application of the Company’s cost reduction know-how, and creation of a comprehensive solution business centered on the environment and energy.

The fair value of noncontrolling interests was measured based on the market price per share of SANYO as of the acquisition date. The fair value of the consideration paid for the controlling interests of SANYO and the noncontrolling interests as of the acquisition date is as follows:

Yen (millions)

Fair value of consideration:

Cash

403,780

Fair value of noncontrolling interests

532,360

Total

936,140

Acquisition-related cost of 5,058 million yen was included in other deductions in the consolidated statements of operations for the year ended March 31, 2010.

Assets acquired and liabilities assumed reflected in the Company’s consolidated balance sheet as of the acquisition date were as follows:

Yen (millions)

Cash and cash equivalents

228,972

Other current assets

653,709

Investments and advances

105,643

Property, plant and equipment

404,468

Goodwill

514,419

Intangible assets

494,103

Other assets

48,596

Total assets acquired

2,449,910

Current liabilities

606,639

Noncurrent liabilities

907,131

Total liabilities assumed

1,513,770

Total net assets acquired

936,140

Trade notes receivable, trade accounts receivable and other short-term receivables recorded at the fair value were included in other current assets in the table above, and the fair value was measured by deducting allowance for doubtful receivables of 73 million yen, 5,319 million yen and 964 million yen from their contractual amounts of 26,001 million yen, 314,175 million yen, 23,941 million yen, respectively. Long-term receivables recorded at the fair value were included in investments and advances, and the fair value was measured by deducting allowance for doubtful receivables of 2,730 million yen from their contractual amounts of 10,999 million yen.

Intangible assets of 492,476 million yen were subject to amortization, which include right of trademark of 45,451 million yen with a 10-year weighted-average useful life, customer relationship of 52,011 million yen with a 12-year weighted-average useful life and patents and know-how of 355,490 million yen with a 10-year weighted-average useful life.


- 111 -

The total amount of goodwill is included in “SANYO” segment, and is not deductible for tax purpose.

Accrued warranty costs of 4,253 million yen were included in current liabilities in the table above.

Net sales and loss before income taxes of SANYO and its subsidiaries that are included in the consolidated statements of operations for the year ended March 31, 2010 are 399,888 million yen and 23,352 million yen, respectively.

The unaudited pro forma information shows the results of the Company’s consolidated operations for the year ended March 31, 2010 and 2009 as though SANYO and its subsidiaries had been consolidated at the beginning of fiscal 2010 and 2009. The pro forma data is not necessarily indicative of the Company’s results of operations that would actually have been reported if the transaction in fact had occurred on April 1, 2009 or 2008, and is not necessarily representative of the Company’s consolidated results of operations for future periods.

   Unaudited

 
   Yen (millions)

 
   2010

  2009

 

Net sales

  8,617,400   9,537,809  

Net income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation

  (155,294 (482,520
   Unaudited

 
   Yen

 
   2010

  2009

 

Net income (loss) per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders:

       

Basic

  (75.00 (232.06

Diluted

  —     (232.06

Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders for the year ended March 31, 2010 has been omitted because the Company did not have potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding for the period.


- 112 -

(3)Inventories

 

Inventories at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are summarized as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

Finished goods

  439,747  499,316  497,153  439,747

Work in process

  129,949  132,894  159,699  129,949

Raw materials

  201,441  232,054  256,794  201,441
  
  
  
  
  771,137  864,264  913,646  771,137
  
  
  
  

 

(3)(4)Investments in and Advances to, and Transactions with Associated Companies

 

Certain financial information in respect of associated companies in aggregate at March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, and for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 is shown below. The most significant of these associated companies as of March 31, 20092010 are JVC KENWOOD Holdings, Inc. (JVC KENWOOD HD), Toshiba Matsushita Display Technology Co., Ltd. (TMD) and Sumishin Matsushita Financial Services Co., Ltd. (SMFC). At March 31, 2009,2010, the Company has a 24.4%27.6% equity ownership in JVC KENWOOD HD a 40.0% equity ownership in TMD and a 34.0%22.6% equity ownership in SMFC.

 

The Company formerly consolidated Victor Company of Japan, Ltd. (JVC) and its subsidiaries. On August 10, 2007, JVC issued and allocated new shares of its common stock to third parties. As a result, the Company’s shareholding of JVC decreased from 52.4% to 36.8%, and JVC and its subsidiaries became associated companies under the equity method. On October 1, 2008, JVC and Kenwood Corporation integrated management by establishing JVC KENWOOD HD through a share transfer. As a result, theThe Company has 24.4%27.6% shareholding of JVC KENWOOD HD.

 

The Company formerly had a 34.0% equity ownership in SMFC. On November 5, 2009, the Company sold certain equity interest to The Sumitomo Trust and Banking Co., Ltd. and as a result, the Company had a 22.6% equity ownership in SMFC. On April 1, 2009,2010, SMFC and STB Leasing Co., Ltd. merged its business to form Sumishin Panasonic Financial Services Co., Ltd. (SPFC). As a result, the Company concluded an agreement with Toshiba Corporationhas a 15.1% equity ownership in SPFC. The Company continues to sell allapply the equity method subsequent to April 1, 2010 as the Company continues to hold significant influence over operating and financial policies of its shares in TMD. The sale was finalized on April 28, 2009.SPFC.

 

The Company formerly accounted for the investment in IPS Alpha technology,Toshiba Matsushita Display Technology Co., Ltd. (IPS)(TMD) and its subsidiarysubsidiaries under the equity method, and began to consolidate IPS and its subsidiary on March 31, 2008, in accordance with FIN 46R, as a result of modification of Joint-Venture agreement. IPS, a variable interest entity, is engaged in manufacturing LCD panels. At March 31, 2008, the amount of total assets of IPS and its subsidiary is 237,259 million yen andmethod. On April 28, 2009, the Company has a 44.9% equity ownership interestsold all of its shares in IPS. Financial informationTMD to Toshiba Corporation.

   Yen (millions)

   2010

  2009

Current assets

  1,065,594  1,012,194

Other assets

  488,755  526,722
   
  
   1,554,349  1,538,916

Current liabilities

  775,170  961,503

Other liabilities

  370,949  292,788
   
  

Net assets

  408,230  284,625
   
  

Company’s equity in net assets

  146,825  102,966

   Yen (millions)

 
   2010

  2009

  2008

 

Net sales

  1,176,332   1,568,499   1,968,527  

Gross profit

  254,507   292,589   377,989  

Net loss

  (10,572 (70,779 (52,915


- 113 -

Purchases and dividends received from associated with IPScompanies for the yearthree years ended March 31, 2008 is included in the aggregate information below, however, financial information2010 are as of and for the year ended March 31, 2009, and as of March 31, 2008 is not included.

follows:

 

   Yen (millions)

   2009

  2008

Current assets

  1,012,194  1,082,483

Other assets

  526,722  584,566
   
  
   1,538,916  1,667,049

Current liabilities

  961,503  809,544

Other liabilities

  292,788  417,241
   
  

Net assets

  284,625  440,264
   
  

Company’s equity in net assets

  102,966  170,330


- 109 -

     Yen (millions)

 
     2009

  2008

  2007

 
  

Net sales

  1,568,499   1,968,527   1,352,107  
  

Gross profit

  292,589   377,989   216,002  
  

Net loss

  (70,779 (52,915 (7,595
Purchases and dividends received from associated companies for the three years ended March 31, 2009 are as follows:   
     Yen (millions)

 
     2009

  2008

  2007

 
  

Purchases from

  315,829   424,242   301,859  
  

Dividends received

  4,528   5,434   3,365  
   Yen (millions)

   2010

  2009

  2008

Purchases from

  287,598  315,829  424,242

Dividends received

  4,301  4,528  5,434

 

Retained earnings include undistributed earnings of associated companies in the amount of 36,59433,489 million yen and 32,51936,594 million yen, as of March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, respectively.

 

During the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the Company incurred a write-down of 3,605 million yen, 18,121 million yen and 23,668 million yen, respectively, for other-than-temporary impairment of investments and advances in associated companies. The fair values of the investments and advances in associated companies were based on quoted market price or discounted cash flows by using appropriate discounted rate. An impairment charge was recorded to reduce the carrying value of the assets to fair value. The write-down is included in other deductions in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

Investments in associated companies include equity securities which have quoted market values at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 compared with related carrying amounts are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

Carrying amount

      12,825      30,644  50,314  12,825

Market value

  11,093  35,921  61,294  11,093


- 110114 -

 

(4)(5)Investments in Securities

 

The Company classifies its existing marketable equity securities other than investments in associated companies and all debt securities as available-for-sale.

 

The cost, fair value, gross unrealized holding gains and gross unrealized holding losses of available-for-sale securities included in short-term investments, and other investments and advances at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  Cost

  Fair
value


  Gross
unrealized
holding
gains


  Gross
unrealized
holding
losses


Current:

            

Convertible and straight bonds

  1,972  1,998  26  —  
  
  
  
  
  Yen (millions)

  1,972  1,998  26  —    2010

  
  
  
  
  Cost

  Fair
value


  Gross
unrealized
holding
gains


  Gross
unrealized
holding
losses


Noncurrent:

                        

Equity securities

  269,735  284,356  32,510  17,889  275,579  379,358  104,666  887

Convertible and straight bonds

  4,290  4,395  110  5

Corporate and government bonds

  3,894  3,961  75  8

Other debt securities

  5,492  5,515  23  —    568  585  22  5
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  279,517  294,266  32,643  17,894  280,041  383,904  104,763  900
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2008

  2009

  Cost

  Fair
value


  Gross
unrealized
holding
gains


  Gross
unrealized
holding
losses


  Cost

  Fair
value


  Gross
unrealized
holding
gains


  Gross
unrealized
holding
losses


Current:

                        

Japanese and foreign government bonds

  40,002  40,140  138  —  

Convertible and straight bonds

  7,010  7,024  14  —  

Other debt securities

  250  250  —    —  

Corporate and government bonds

  1,972  1,998  26  —  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  47,262  47,414  152  —    1,972  1,998  26  —  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Noncurrent:

                        

Equity securities

  333,057  441,839  124,342  15,560  269,735  284,356  32,510  17,889

Japanese and foreign government bonds

  24,745  25,151  406  —  

Convertible and straight bonds

  6,843  6,992  177  28

Corporate and government bonds

  4,290  4,395  110  5

Other debt securities

  5,603  5,510  —    93  5,492  5,515  23  —  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  370,248  479,492  124,925  15,681  279,517  294,266  32,643  17,894
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

The cost, fair value, gross unrealized holding gains and gross unrealized holding losses of held-to-maturity securities included in other investments and advances are 1,954 million yen, 1,887 million yen, 16 million yen and 83 million yen at March 31, 2010, respectively.


- 111115 -

 

Maturities of investments in available-for-sale securities at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

  Cost

  Fair
value


  Cost

  Fair
value


  Cost

  Fair
value


  Cost

  Fair
value


Due within one year

  1,972  1,998  47,262  47,414  —    —    1,972  1,998

Due after one year through five years

  9,782  9,910  34,991  35,456  4,462  4,546  9,782  9,910

Due after five years through ten years

  —    —    2,200  2,197

Equity securities

  269,735  284,356  333,057  441,839  275,579  379,358  269,735  284,356
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  281,489  296,264  417,510  526,906  280,041  383,904  281,489  296,264
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  

Maturity of investments in held-to-maturity securities at March 31, 2010 is due after 10 years. The cost and fair value of the related investments are 1,954 million yen and 1,887 million yen, respectively.

 

Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 were 18,275 million yen, 73,782 million yen 106,466 million yen and 84,806106,466 million yen, respectively. The gross realized gains on sale of available-for-sale securities for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 were 3,756 million yen, 797 million yen 7,415 million yen and 12,4527,415 million yen, respectively. The gross realized losses on sale of available-for-sale securities for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 were 88 million yen, 11 million yen 148 million yen and 313148 million yen, respectively. The cost of securities sold in computing gross realized gains and losses is determined by the average cost method.

 

During the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, the Company incurred a write-down of 2,965 million yen, 73,861 million yen 8,002 million yen and 9398,002 million yen, respectively, for other-than-temporary impairment of available-for-sale securities, mainly reflecting the aggravated market condition of certain industries in Japan. The write-down is included in other deductions in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

Gross unrealized holding losses on investmentinvestments in available-for-sale securities and the fair value of the related securities,investments, aggregated by investment category and length of time that individual securities have been in a continuous unrealized loss position, at March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009 are as follows:

   Yen (millions)

   2010

   Less than 12 months

  12 months or more

  Total

   Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


Equity securities

  6,222  887  —    —    6,222  887

Corporate and government bonds

  1,194  8  —    —    1,194  8

Other debt securities

  40  5  —    —    40  5
   
  
  
  
  
  
   7,456  900  —    —    7,456  900
   
  
  
  
  
  
   Yen (millions)

   2009

   Less than 12 months

  12 months or more

  Total

   Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


Equity securities

  105,647  17,889  —    —    105,647  17,889

Corporate and government bonds

  1,780  5  —    —    1,780  5
   
  
  
  
  
  
   107,427  17,894  —    —    107,427  17,894
   
  
  
  
  
  


- 112116 -

   Yen (millions)

   2009

   Less than 12 months

  12 months or more

  Total

   Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


Equity securities

  105,647  17,889  —    —    105,647  17,889

Convertible and straight bonds

  1,780  5  —    —    1,780  5
   
  
  
  
  
  
   107,427  17,894  —    —    107,427  17,894
   
  
  
  
  
  
   2008

   Less than 12 months

  12 months or more

  Total

   Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


  Fair
value


  Unrealized
losses


Equity securities

  82,481  15,560  —    —    82,481  15,560

Convertible and straight bonds

  1,824  28  —    —    1,824  28

Other debt securities

  5,407  93  —    —    5,407  93
   
  
  
  
  
  
   89,712  15,681  —    —    89,712  15,681
   
  
  
  
  
  

 

The gross unrealized loss position has been continuing for a relatively short period of time. Based on this and other relevant factors, management has determined that these investments are not considered other-than-temporarily impaired. The Company did not have investment securities that had been in a continuous loss position for twelve months or more at March 31, 20092010 and 2008.2009.

Gross unrealized holding losses on investments in held-to-maturity securities and the fair value of the related investments are 83 million yen and 1,281 million yen, respectively.

 

The carrying amounts of the Company’s cost method investments totaled 40,75522,039 million yen and 29,83740,755 million yen at March 31, 2010 and 2009, and 2008.respectively. For substantially all such investments, the Company estimated that the fair value exceeded the carrying amounts of investments (that is, the investments were not impaired). For the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, certain investments were considered other-than-temporarily impaired, resulting in a write-down of 374 million yen, 34 million yen 172 million yen and 2,209172 million yen, respectively.

 

At March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, equity securities with a book value of 13,33315,753 million yen and 19,88013,333 million yen were pledged as collateral for the deferred payments of certain taxes based on the Japanese Custom Act and Consumption Tax Law.Law, respectively.


- 113117 -

 

(5)(6)Leases

 

The Company has capital and operating leases for certain land, buildings, and machinery and equipment with SMFC and other third parties.

 

During the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, the Company sold and leased back certain land, buildings, and machinery and equipment for 95,316 million yen, 16,582 million yen 109,311 million yen and 73,578109,311 million yen, respectively. The base lease term is 1 to 10 years. The resulting leases are being accounted for as operating leases or capital leases. The resulting gains of these transactions, included in other income in the consolidated statements of operations, were not significant. Regarding certain leased assets, the Company has options to purchase the leased assets, or to terminate the leases and guarantee a specified value of the leased assets thereof, subject to certain conditions, during or at the end of the lease term. Regarding leased land and buildings, there are no future commitments, obligations, provisions, or circumstances that require or result in the Company’s continuing involvement.

 

At March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, the gross book value of land, buildings, and machinery and equipment under capital leases, including the above-mentioned sale-leaseback transactions was 136,445164,119 million yen and 207,999136,445 million yen, and the related accumulated depreciation recorded was 65,00159,698 million yen and 89,97765,001 million yen, respectively.

 

Rental expenses for operating leases, including the above-mentioned sale-leaseback transactions were 64,124 million yen, 63,490 million yen 59,886 million yen and 47,09459,886 million yen for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, respectively.

 

Future minimum lease payments under non-cancelable capital leases and operating leases at March 31, 20092010 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

Year ending March 31  Capital
leases


  Operating
leases


  Capital
leases


  Operating
leases


2010

  40,312  56,444

2011

  31,216  62,809  42,548  71,686

2012

  22,463  29,657  30,215  42,942

2013

  9,741  13,606  27,116  26,267

2014

  3,446  7,788  12,229  20,074

2015

  9,939  4,770

Thereafter

  9,458  4,625  32,999  4,226
  
  
  
  

Total minimum lease payments

  116,636  174,929  155,046  169,965
     
     

Less amount representing interest

  4,305     10,276   
  
     
   

Present value of net minimum lease payments

  112,331     144,770   

Less current portion

  38,868     40,171   
  
     
   

Long-term capital lease obligations

  73,463     104,599   
  
     
   


- 118 -

 

(6)(7)Long-Lived Assets

 

The Company periodically reviews the recorded value of its long-lived assets to determine if the future cash flows to be derived from these assets or related asset group will be sufficient to recover the remaining recorded asset values. Impairment losses are included in other deductions in the consolidated statements of operations, and are not charged to segment profit.

The Company recognized impairment losses in the aggregate of 79,259 million yen of long-lived assets during fiscal 2010.

The Company recorded impairment losses for certain machinery and finite-lived intangible assets related to domestic liquid crystal display panel manufacturing facilities. As a result of the continuously substantial decline of product prices, the Company estimated that the carrying amounts would not be recoverable through future cash flows. The fair value was based on the discounted estimated cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets.

The Company also recorded impairment losses for certain land, buildings, and machinery and equipment related to domestic battery manufacturing facilities. Due to the revamp of manufacturing capacity of lithium-ion battery business, certain factories experienced a downturn in profitability. In addition, the Company had to transfer a part of its nickel-hydrogen battery business in relation to the acquisition of SANYO. As a result, the carrying amounts of certain domestic battery manufacturing facilities would not be recoverable through future cash flows. The fair value of land was determined through an appraisal based on the comparable sales method. The fair value of buildings, and machinery and equipment was determined through an appraisal based on the repurchase cost.

Impairment losses of 37,872 million yen, 7,063 million yen, 24,329 million yen, 8,897 million yen and 1,098 million yen were related to “Digital AVC Networks,” “Home Appliances,” “Components and Devices,” “SANYO” and the remaining segments, respectively.

 

The Company recognized impairment losses in the aggregate of 313,466 million yen of long-lived assets during fiscal 2009.

 

The Company recorded impairment losses for certain buildings, machinery and finite-lived intangible assets related to domestic liquid crystal display panel manufacturing facilities. As a result of the substantial decline of product prices due to the significant market downturn, the Company estimated that the carrying amounts would not be recoverable through future cash flows. The fair value of buildings and remaining assets, respectively, was determined through an appraisal based on the comparable sales method and the discounted estimated cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of the assets.


- 114 -

 

The Company also recorded impairment losses for certain buildings, machinery and finite-lived intangible assets related to domestic and overseas plasma display panel manufacturing facilities. As a result of the substantial decline of product prices due to the significant market downturn, the Company estimated that the carrying amounts would not be recoverable through future cash flows. The fair value of buildings and remaining assets, respectively, was determined through an appraisal based on the comparable sales method and the orderly liquidation value.

 

Impairment losses of 252,372 million yen, 18,131 million yen, 19,077 million yen, 18,747 million yen and 5,139 million yen were related to “Digital AVC Networks,” “Home Appliances,” “PEW and PanaHome,” “Components and Devices” and the remaining segments, respectively.

 

The Company recognized impairment losses in the aggregate of 44,554 million yen of long-lived assets during fiscal 2008.

 

The Company recorded impairment losses related to manufacturing facilities used in its domestic semiconductors business. As the profitability of domestic business declined, the Company estimated that the carrying amounts would not be recovered by the future cash flows. The fair value of manufacturing facilities was based on the discounted estimated future cash flows expected to result from the use and eventual disposition of them.

 

The Company also recorded impairment losses related to certain buildings and manufacturing facilities used in its device business at an overseas subsidiary. Due to the downsizing of business, the Company wrote down the carrying amounts of these assets to the fair value. The fair value was based on the discounted estimated future cash flows.

 

Impairment losses of 1,167 million yen, 2,231 million yen, 39,490 million yen and 1,666 million yen were related to “Digital AVC Networks,” “Home Appliances,” “Components and Devices” and the remaining segments, respectively.

The Company recognized impairment losses in the aggregate of 18,440 million yen of long-lived assets during fiscal 2007.

The Company closed a domestic factory that manufactured air conditioner devices and recorded an impairment loss related to buildings, and machinery and equipment, as the Company estimated that the carrying amounts would not be recovered by the discounted estimated future cash flows expected to result from their eventual disposition.

The Company also recorded impairment losses related to buildings, machinery and equipment, and finite-lived intangible assets in building equipment, and electronic and plastic materials of some domestic and overseas subsidiaries. The profitability of each subsidiary was expected to be low in the future and the Company estimated the carrying amounts would not be recovered by the future cash flows.

Impairment losses of 1,416 million yen, 10,279 million yen, 3,901 million yen, 1,571 million yen and 1,273 million yen were related to “Home Appliances,” “PEW and PanaHome,” “Components and Devices,” “Other” and the remaining segments, respectively.


- 115119 -

 

(7)(8)Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

 

The changes in the carrying amount of goodwill by business segment for the years ended March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  Digital
AVC
Networks


 Home
Appliances


 PEW and
PanaHome


 Components
and Devices


 Other

  Total

   Digital
AVC
Networks


 Home
Appliances


  PEW and
PanaHome


 Components
and Devices


 SANYO

  Other

  Total

 

Balance at March 31, 2007

  234,893  14,273  45,958  71,239  12,961  379,324 

Goodwill acquired during the year

  7,711  1,405  45,906  574  29  55,625 

Goodwill written off related to disposals during the year

  (561) (922) (1,923) (111) —    (3,517)

Other

  —    —    —    (1,530) —    (1,530)

Balance at March 31, 2008:

            

Goodwill

  319,392   14,756  89,941   70,172   —    12,990  507,251  

Accumulated impairment losses

  (77,349 —    —     —     —    —    (77,349
  

 

 

 

 
  

  

 
  

 

 
  
  

Balance at March 31, 2008

  242,043  14,756  89,941  70,172  12,990  429,902 
  242,043   14,756  89,941   70,172   —    12,990  429,902  
  

 
  

 

 
  
  

Goodwill acquired during the year

  702  —    262  —    30  994   702   —    262   —     —    30  994  

Translation adjustments

  —    —    (10,583) —    —    (10,583)  —     —    (10,583 —     —    —    (10,583

Other

  (3,780) —    (5,741) —    —    (9,521)  (3,780 —    (5,741 —     —    —    (9,521
  

 

 

 

 
  

  

 
  

 

 
  
  

Balance at March 31, 2009

  238,965  14,756  73,879  70,172  13,020  410,792 
  

 

 

 

 
  

Balance at March 31, 2009:

            

Goodwill

  316,314   14,756  73,879   70,172   —    13,020  488,141  

Accumulated impairment losses

  (77,349 —    —     —     —    —    (77,349
  

 
  

 

 
  
  

  238,965   14,756  73,879   70,172   —    13,020  410,792  
  

 
  

 

 
  
  

Goodwill acquired during the year

  —     —    —     —     514,419  —    514,419  

Goodwill impaired during the year

  —     —    —     (3,745 —    —    (3,745

Translation adjustments

  —     —    2,070   —     —    —    2,070  

Other

  —     —    —     (535 —    —    (535
  

 
  

 

 
  
  

Balance at March 31, 2010:

            

Goodwill

  316,314   14,756  75,949   69,637   514,419  13,020  1,004,095  

Accumulated impairment losses

  (77,349 —    —     (3,745 —    —    (81,094
  

 
  

 

 
  
  

  238,965   14,756  75,949   65,892   514,419  13,020  923,001  
  

 
  

 

 
  
  


- 120 -

 

Acquired intangible assets, excluding goodwill, at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

     Yen (millions)

   
  2009

  2008

     2010

  2009

   
  Gross
carrying
amount


  Accumulated
amortization


  Gross
carrying
amount


  Accumulated
amortization


  Average
amortization
period


  Gross
carrying
amount


  Accumulated
amortization


  Gross
carrying
amount


  Accumulated
amortization


  Average
amortization
period


Finite-lived intangible assets:

                              

Patents

  60,317  41,063  61,654  36,782  8 years

Patents and know-how

  439,608  54,684  60,317  41,063  10 years

Software

  257,859  188,439  233,375  162,946  4 years  283,075  210,726  257,859  188,439  4 years

Other

  56,040  28,059  42,706  13,985  18 years  172,497  30,337  56,040  28,059  13 years
  
  
  
  
     
  
  
  
   
  374,216  257,561  337,735  213,713     895,180  295,747  374,216  257,561   
  
  
  
  
     
  
  
  
   

 

   Yen (millions)

       2009    

      2008    

Indefinite-lived intangible assets

  4,057  4,895
   Yen (millions)

       2010    

      2009    

Indefinite-lived intangible assets

  5,432  4,057

 

Aggregate amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 was 46,175 million yen, 38,903 million yen 38,343 million yen and 37,33738,343 million yen, respectively. Estimated amortization expense for the next five years is as follows:

 

Year ending March 31  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

2010

  30,791
Year ending March 31 Yen (millions)

  23,904  

2012

  16,479  75,017

2013

  10,956  66,696

2014

  7,945  60,558

2015

  53,794

 

The Company recognized impairment losses of 73 million yen and 239 million yen of indefinite-lived intangible assets, in connection with the decline of their fair value during fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively.2008. The impairment losses are included in other deductions in the consolidated statements of operations.

 

Impairment losses of finite-lived intangible assets that are being amortized are included in impairment losses of long-lived assets discussed in Note 6.7.


- 116121 -

 

(8)(9)Long-term Debt and Short-term Borrowings

 

Long-term debt at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 is set forth below:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

Unsecured Straight bond, due 2011, interest 1.64%

  100,000  100,000  100,000  100,000

Unsecured Straight bond, due 2012, interest 1.14%

  100,000  —    100,000  100,000

Unsecured Straight bond, due 2014, interest 1.404%

  200,000  —    200,000  200,000

Unsecured Straight bond, due 2019, interest 2.05%

  100,000  —    100,000  100,000

Unsecured Straight bonds issued by subsidiaries, due 2008 - 2015, interest 0.6% - 2.02%

  60,143  50,150

Unsecured bank loans, due 2008 - 2013, effective interest 1.6% in fiscal 2009 and 2.0% in fiscal 2008

  22,043  33,920

Secured yen bank loans by subsidiaries, due 2008 - 2027, effective interest 2.51% in fiscal 2009 and 2.55% in fiscal 2008

  3,136  4,011

Unsecured Straight bonds issued by subsidiaries, due 2010- 2019, interest 0.53% - 2.02%

  182,406  60,143

Unsecured bank loans, due 2009 - 2015, effective interest 1.1% in fiscal 2010 and 1.6% in fiscal 2009

  404,318  22,043

Secured bank loans by subsidiaries, due 2009 - 2026, effective interest 2.04% in fiscal 2010 and 2.51% in fiscal 2009

  4,558  3,136

Capital lease obligations

  112,331  122,267  144,770  112,331
  
  
  
  
  697,653  310,348  1,236,052  697,653

Less current portion

  46,343  78,002  207,124  46,343
  
  
  
  
  651,310  232,346  1,028,928  651,310
  
  
  
  

 

The aggregate annual maturities of long-term debt after March 31, 20092010 are as follows:

 

Year ending March 31  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

2010

  46,343

2011

  37,921  207,124

2012

  227,528  368,594

2013

  10,910  74,721

2014

  223,669  283,617

2015 and thereafter

  151,282

2015

  98,872

2016 and thereafter

  203,124

 

As is customary in Japan, short-term and long-term bank loans are made under general agreements which provide that security and guarantees for future and present indebtedness will be given upon request of the bank, and that the bank shall have the right, as the obligations become due, or in the event of their default, to offset cash deposits against such obligations due to the bank.

 

Each of the loan agreements grants the lender the right to request additional security or mortgages on certain assets. At March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, other investments and advances, and property, plant and equipment with a book value of 4,9679,933 million yen and 6,2184,967 million yen respectively, was pledged as collateral by subsidiaries for secured yen loans from banks. At March 31, 20092010 and 2008, short-term2009, loans subject to such general agreements amounted to 6,761 million yen and 7,130 million yen, and 15,156 million yen, respectively.

The balance of short-term loans also includes borrowings under acceptances and short-term loans of foreign subsidiaries. The weighted-average interest rate on short-term borrowings outstanding at March 31, 2010 and 2009 was 2.5% and 2008 was 3.5% and 4.6%, respectively.


- 117122 -

 

(9)(10)Retirement and Severance Benefits

 

The Company and certain subsidiaries have contributory, funded benefit pension plans covering substantially all employees who meet eligibility requirements. Benefits under the plans are primarily based on the combination of years of service and compensation.

 

In addition to the plans described above, upon retirement or termination of employment for reasons other than dismissal, employees are entitled to lump-sum payments based on the current rate of pay and length of service. If the termination is involuntary or caused by death, the severance payment is greater than in the case of voluntary termination. The lump-sum payment plans are not funded.

 

Effective April 1, 2002, the Company and some of the above-mentioned subsidiaries amended their benefit pension plans by introducing a “point-based benefits system,” and their lump-sum payment plans to cash balance pension plans. Under point-based benefits system, benefits are calculated based on accumulated points allocated to employees each year according to their job classification and years of service. Under the cash balance pension plans, each participant has an account which is credited yearly based on the current rate of pay and market-related interest rate.

 

On March 31, 2007, the Company adopted the recognition and disclosure provisions of SFAS No. 158, “Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans—an amendment of FASB Statement No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R).” SFAS No. 158 required the Company to recognize the funded status (i.e., the difference between the fair value of plan assets and the projected benefit obligations) of its pension plans in the March 31, 2007 consolidated balance sheet, with a corresponding adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax. The adjustment to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at adoption represents the unrecognized prior service benefit and unrecognized actuarial loss, both of which were previously netted against the plans’ funded status in the consolidated balance sheet pursuant to the provisions of SFAS No. 87, “Employers’ Accounting for Pensions.” These amounts will be subsequently amortized as net periodic benefit cost. Further, actuarial gains and losses that arise in subsequent periods and that are not recognized as net periodic benefit cost in the same periods will be recognized as a component of other comprehensive income (loss). Those amounts will be subsequently recognized as a component of net periodic benefit cost on the same basis as the amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at adoption of SFAS No. 158.

During the year ended March 31, 2009, the Company changed the measurement date to March 31 for those postretirement benefit plans with a December 31 measurement date in conformity with the measurement date provisions of SFAS No. 158.ASC 715 “Compensation-Retirement Benefits.” The benefit obligations and plan assets of these plans were remeasured as of April 1, 2008. Net periodic benefit cost, net of tax, for the period from January 1, 2008 to March 31, 2008, in the amount of 3,727 million yen has been recorded as a reduction of beginning fiscal 2009 balance of “retained earnings.” Changes in fair value of plan assets and benefit obligations during the same transition period has been recorded, as a reduction of beginning fiscal 2009 balance of “accumulated other comprehensive income (loss),” in the amount of 73,571 million yen, net of tax of 44,726 million yen.


- 123 -

 

Reconciliation of beginning and ending balances of the benefit obligations of the contributory, funded benefit pension plans, the unfunded lump-sum payment plans, and the cash balance pension plans, and the fair value of the plan assets at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:


- 118 -

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 

Change in benefit obligations:

      

Benefit obligations at beginning of year prior to adjustment

  1,828,803   1,955,007    1,821,937   1,828,803  

SFAS No. 158 measurement date adjustment

  4,378 �� —    

ASC 715 measurement date adjustment

  —     4,378  
  

 

  

 

Benefit obligations at beginning of year as adjusted

  1,833,181   1,955,007    1,821,937   1,833,181  

Service cost

  49,660   52,830    50,285   49,660  

Interest cost

  50,114   50,667    51,239   50,114  

Prior service benefit

  (666 (1,930  —     (666

Actuarial (gain) loss

  (6,150 (14,173  12,040   (6,150

Benefits paid

  (85,073 (94,130  (102,014 (85,073

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries

  (5,560 (108,636  388,648   (5,560

Foreign currency exchange impact

  (13,569 (10,832  (1,304 (13,569

Curtailments, settlements and other

  (6,724 —    
  

 

  

 

Benefit obligations at end of year

  1,821,937   1,828,803    2,214,107   1,821,937  
  

 

  

 

Change in plan assets:

      

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

  1,737,634   1,813,616  

SFAS No. 158 measurement date adjustment

  (118,514 —    

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year prior to adjustment

  1,413,646   1,737,634  

ASC 715 measurement date adjustment

  —     (118,514
  

 

  

 

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year as adjusted

  1,619,120   1,813,616    1,413,646   1,619,120  

Actual return on plan assets

  (268,049 (40,591  197,127   (268,049

Employer contributions

  153,161   157,798    87,963   153,161  

Benefits paid

  (77,682 (79,511  (93,462 (77,682

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries

  —     (105,459  176,036   —    

Foreign currency exchange impact

  (12,904 (8,219  (1,044 (12,904

Curtailments, settlements and other

  (5,259 —    
  

 

  

 

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

  1,413,646   1,737,634    1,775,007   1,413,646  
  

 

  

 

Funded status

  (408,291 (91,169  (439,100 (408,291
  

 

  

 

 

The accumulated benefit obligation for the pension plans was 1,814,1182,155,066 million yen and 1,817,2221,814,118 million yen at March 31, 20092010 and 2008,2009, respectively.

 

The projected benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for the pension plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets, and the accumulated benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets for the pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:

            

Projected benefit obligations

  1,821,937  840,967  2,094,302  1,821,937

Fair value of plan assets

  1,413,646  598,369  1,649,951  1,413,646

Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets:

            

Accumulated benefit obligations

  1,814,118  805,235  2,035,647  1,814,118

Fair value of plan assets

  1,413,646  569,587  1,649,951  1,413,646


- 119124 -

 

Accounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheet at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 consist of:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 

Other assets

  —     151,430    5,251   —    

Other current liabilities

  (3,924 (4,203  (8,552 (3,924

Retirement and severance benefits

  (404,367 (238,396  (435,799 (404,367
  

 

  

 

  (408,291 (91,169  (439,100 (408,291
  

 

  

 

 

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) (loss) at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 consist of:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 

Prior service benefit

  (222,519 (251,718  (197,508 (222,519

Actuarial loss

  641,371   248,918    455,780   641,371  
  

 

  

 

  418,852   (2,800  258,272   418,852  
  

 

  

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost for the contributory, funded benefit pension plans, the unfunded lump-sum payment plans, and the cash balance pension plans of the Company for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 consist of the following components:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Service cost – benefits earned during the year

  49,660   52,830   59,415    50,285   49,660   52,830  

Interest cost on projected benefit obligation

  50,114   50,667   52,659    51,239   50,114   50,667  

Expected return on plan assets

  (48,659 (52,861 (50,069  (43,971 (48,659 (52,861

Amortization of prior service benefit

  (24,606 (27,046 (25,201  (25,011 (24,606 (27,046

Recognized actuarial loss

  22,391   15,448   18,407    43,576   22,391   15,448  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost

  48,900   39,038   55,211    76,118   48,900   39,038  
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

The estimated prior service benefit and actuarial loss for the defined benefit pension plans that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income(loss) (loss) into net periodic benefit cost for fiscal 20102011 are gain of 24,78625,011 million yen and loss of 37,51929,444 million yen, respectively.

 

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

   2009

 2008

  

Discount rate

  2.7% 2.7%  

Rate of compensation increase

  1.7% 1.7%  


- 120 -

   2010

  2009

   

Discount rate

  2.6 2.7  

Rate of compensation increase

  1.8 1.7  

 

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net cost for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 are as follows:

 

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

 2009

 2008

 

Discount rate

  2.7%  2.7%  2.7%  2.7 2.7 2.7

Expected return on plan assets

  3.1%  3.1%  3.3%  3.1 3.1 3.1

Rate of compensation increase

  1.7%  1.6%  1.6%  1.7 1.7 1.6


- 125 -

 

The expected return on plan assets is determined based on the portfolio as a whole and not on the sum of the returns on individual asset categories, considering long-term historical returns, asset allocation, and future estimates of long-term investment returns.

The weighted-average asset allocations of the Company’s pension plans at March 31, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

   2009

 2008

  

Asset category:

       

Equity securities

    35%   43%  

Debt securities

    50      44     

Life insurance company general accounts

    11        9     

Other

      4        4     
   
 
  

Total

  100% 100%  
   
 
  

 

Each plan of the Company has a different investment policy, which is designed to ensure sufficient plan assets are available to provide future payments of pension benefits to the eligible plan participants and is individually monitored for compliance and appropriateness on an on-going basis. Considering the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets, each plan of the Company establishes a “basic” portfolio comprised of the optimal combination of equity securities and debt securities. Plan assets are invested in individual equity and debt securities using the guidelines of the “basic” portfolio in order to generate a total return that will satisfy the expected return on a mid-term to long-term basis. The Company evaluates the difference between expected return and actual return of invested plan assets on an annual basis to determine if such differences necessitate a revision in the formulation of the “basic” portfolio. The Company revises the “basic” portfolio when and to the extent considered necessary to achieve the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets.

 

The Company’s pension plan assets allocation is approximately 40% for equity securities, approximately 40% for debt securities, and approximately 20% for other investments, primarily for life insurance company general accounts.

For the Company’s major defined benefit pension plans, equity investments are invested mainly in listed equity securities, broadly in Japanese equity, developed international equity and emerging markets. The debt securities investments are comprised primarily of government, municipal, and corporate bonds. The Company mainly chooses debt securities with rating above BBB, high liquidity and appropriate repayment, and has appropriately diversified the investments by sector and geography. As for investments in life insurance company general accounts, the contracts with the insurance companies include a guaranteed interest rate and return of capital. Other investments include fund-of-funds investment, equity long/short hedge funds investment and private equity investment. Fund-of-funds investment and equity long/short hedge funds investment are primarily invested in listed equity securities with frequency of transactions and stable return, while private equity investment are diversified products with low correlation.

The fair values of the Company’s pension plan assets at March 31, 2010, by asset category are as follows:

   Yen (millions)

   Level 1

  Level 2

  Level 3

  Total

Cash and cash equivalents

  44,336  20,281  —    64,617

Equity securities:

            

Japanese companies

  116,053  —    —    116,053

Foreign companies

  84,218  —    —    84,218

Commingled funds (a)

  —    485,091  —    485,091

Debt securities:

            

Government and Municipal bonds

  204,898  —    —    204,898

Corporate bonds

  —    41,113  —    41,113

Commingled funds (b)

  —    451,246  —    451,246

Life insurance company general accounts

  —    198,049  —    198,049

Other (c)

  —    114,610  15,112  129,722
   
  
  
  

Total

  449,505  1,310,390  15,112  1,775,007
   
  
  
  

(a)These funds invest mainly in listed equity securities, approximately 60% Japanese companies and 40% foreign companies.
(b)Primarily invests in Japanese government bonds and foreign government bonds.
(c)Other investments primarily include fund-of-funds investment, equity long/short hedge funds.

The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are discussed in Note 18.


- 126 -

Level 1 assets are comprised principally of equity securities and government and municipal bonds, which are valued using unadjusted quoted market price in active markets with sufficient volume and frequency of transactions.

Level 2 assets are comprised principally of commingled funds, which are valued at their net asset values that are determined by the fund family and have daily liquidity, corporate bonds, which are valued using quoted prices for identical assets in market that are not active, and life insurance company general accounts, which are valued at conversion value. Fund of funds investment, hedge funds investment that use equity long/short strategies included in level 2, which primarily invest in listed equity securities and debt securities, are valued based on net asset value.

Level 3 assets are comprised principally of collateralized loan obligation investment and private equity investment, which are valued based on prices and other relevant information such as similar market transactions and latest round of financing data.

The reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of level 3 assets is as follows:

   Yen (millions)

 
   Collateralized loan
obligation


  Private equity

  Total

 

Balance at beginning of year

  630   5,635  6,265  

Effect of changes in consolidated subsidiaries

  5,822   —    5,822  

Realized gains (losses)

  804   27  831  

Unrealized gains (losses) relating to assets held

  2,393   23  2,416  

Purchases, sales, issuances and settlements, net

  (656 712  56  

Transfers out of Level 3

  (278 —    (278
   

 
  

Balance at ending of year

  8,715   6,397  15,112  
   

 
  

The Company expects to contribute 73,82391,195 million yen to its defined benefit plans in fiscal 2010.2011.

 

The benefits expected to be paid from the defined pension plans in each fiscal year 2010 - 20142011 – 2015 are 99,237120,297 million yen, 95,421124,578 million yen, 99,861125,097 million yen, 101,830124,246 million yen and 101,584127,403 million yen, respectively. The aggregate benefits expected to be paid in the five years from fiscal 2015 - - 20192016 – 2020 are 538,968660,662 million yen. The expected benefits are based on the same assumptions used to measure the Company’s benefit obligation at March 31 and include estimated future employee service.


- 121127 -

 

(10)(11)Income Taxes

 

Income (loss) before income taxes and income taxes for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 are summarized as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  Domestic

 Foreign

 Total

 

For the year ended March 31, 2010

   

Income (loss) before income taxes

  (80,125 50,810   (29,315

Income taxes:

   

Current

  22,105   36,042   58,147  

Deferred

  80,954   2,732   83,686  
  

 

 

Total income taxes

  103,059   38,774   141,833  
  Domestic

 Foreign

 Total

   

 

 

For the year ended March 31, 2009

      

Income (loss) before income taxes

  (345,776 (36,858 (382,634  (345,776 (36,858 (382,634

Income taxes:

      

Current

  38,297   23,543   61,840    38,297   23,543   61,840  

Deferred

  (10,232 (14,250 (24,482  (10,232 (14,250 (24,482
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total income taxes

  28,065   9,293   37,358    28,065   9,293   37,358  
  

 

 

  

 

 

For the year ended March 31, 2008

      

Income before income taxes

  266,972   168,021   434,993    266,972   168,021   434,993  

Income taxes:

      

Current

  85,009   43,172   128,181    85,009   43,172   128,181  

Deferred

  (16,068 2,460   (13,608  (16,068 2,460   (13,608
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total income taxes

  68,941   45,632   114,573    68,941   45,632   114,573  
  

 

 

  

 

 

For the year ended March 31, 2007

   

Income before income taxes

  317,007   122,137   439,144  

Income taxes:

   

Current

  84,012   35,453   119,465  

Deferred

  67,984   4,414   72,398  
  

 

 

Total income taxes

  151,996   39,867   191,863  
  

 

 

 

The Company and its subsidiaries in Japan are subject to a National tax of 30%, an Inhabitant tax of approximately 20.5%, and a deductible Enterprise tax of approximately 7.4% varying by local jurisdiction, which, in aggregate, resulted in a combined statutory tax rate in Japan of approximately 40.5% for the three years ended March 31, 2009.


- 122 -2010.

 

The effective tax rates for the years differ from the combined statutory tax rates for the following reasons:

 

  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Combined statutory tax rate

  (40.5)%  40.5 40.5  (40.5)%  (40.5)%  40.5

Tax credit related to research expenses

  (0.1 (1.2 (2.2

Lower tax rates of overseas subsidiaries

  (1.1 (6.9 (4.2  (38.4 (1.1 (6.9

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes

  0.8   0.7   0.8    25.7   0.8   0.7  

Change in valuation allowance allocated to income tax expenses

  41.8   (5.4 9.8    473.8   41.8   (5.4

Tax effects attributable to investments in subsidiaries

  5.8   (4.8 0.5    45.7   5.8   (4.8

Per capita tax

  8.3   0.6   0.6  

Goodwill impairment

  5.2   —     —    

Other

  3.1   3.4   (1.5  4.0   2.4   1.6  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Effective tax rate

  9.8 26.3 43.7  483.8 9.8 26.3
  

 

 

  

 

 

 

The significant components of deferred income tax expenses for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Deferred tax expense (exclusive of the effects of other components listed below)

  94,250   16,898   114,132    111,579   94,250   16,898  

Benefits of net operating loss carryforwards

  (118,732 (30,506 (41,734  (27,893 (118,732 (30,506
  

 

 

  

 

 

  (24,482 (13,608 72,398    83,686   (24,482 (13,608
  

 

 

  

 

 


- 123128 -

 

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to significant portions of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are presented below:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 

Deferred tax assets:

      

Inventory valuation

  78,930   87,441    94,596   78,930  

Expenses accrued for financial statement purposes but not currently included in taxable income

  138,580   186,633    154,679   138,580  

Property, plant and equipment

  246,276   168,886    295,091   246,276  

Retirement and severance benefits

  233,924   72,803    253,636   233,924  

Tax loss carryforwards

  333,383   242,474    616,648   333,383  

Other

  232,994   179,672    237,797   232,994  
  

 

  

 

Total gross deferred tax assets

  1,264,087   937,909    1,652,447   1,264,087  

Less valuation allowance

  477,997   348,570    1,014,703   477,997  
  

 

  

 

Net deferred tax assets

  786,090   589,339    637,744   786,090  
  

 

  

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

      

Net unrealized holding gains of available-for-sale securities

  (5,882 (44,018  (42,458 (5,882

Intangible assets

  (194,691 —    

Other

  (41,814 (53,810  (89,242 (41,814
  

 

  

 

Total gross deferred tax liabilities

  (47,696 (97,828  (326,391 (47,696
  

 

  

 

Net deferred tax assets

  738,394   491,511    311,353   738,394  
  

 

  

 

 

In assessing the realizability of deferred tax assets, management considers whether it is more likely than not that some portion or all of the deferred tax assets will not be realized. The ultimate realization of deferred tax assets is dependent upon the generation of future taxable income during the periods in which those temporary differences and loss carryforwards become deductible. Management considers the scheduled reversal of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, and tax planning strategies in making this assessment. Based upon the level of historical taxable income and projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the deferred tax assets are deductible, management believes it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefits of these deductible differences and loss carryforwards, net of the existing valuation allowances at March 31, 2009.2010.

 

The net change in total valuation allowance for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 was an increase of 536,706 million yen, an increase of 129,427 million yen a decrease of 90,267 million yen and a decrease of 25,26390,267 million yen, respectively.

 

At March 31, 2009,2010, the Company had, for income tax purposes, net operating loss carryforwards of approximately 936,0601,667,709 million yen, of which 835,1521,527,953 million yen expire from fiscal 20102011 through 20162017 and the remaining balance will expire thereafter or do not expire. At March 31, 2010, the Company had, for income tax purposes, tax credit carryforwards of approximately 58,482 million yen, which expire from fiscal 2011 through 2013.


- 124129 -

 

Net deferred tax assets and liabilities at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are reflected in the accompanying consolidated balance sheets under the following captions:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 

Other current assets

  227,059   232,248    232,165   227,059  

Other assets

  547,580   292,457    358,416   547,580  

Other current liabilities

  (1,168 (1,082  (1,470 (1,168

Other liabilities

  (35,077 (32,112  (277,758 (35,077
  

 

  

 

Net deferred tax assets

  738,394   491,511    311,353   738,394  
  

 

  

 

 

The Company has not recognized a deferred tax liability for the undistributed earnings of its foreign subsidiaries and foreign corporate joint ventures of 750,123875,626 million yen as of March 31, 2009,2010, because the Company currently does not expect those unremitted earnings to reverse and become taxable to the Company in the foreseeable future. A deferred tax liability will be recognized when the Company no longer plans to indefinitely reinvest undistributed earnings. The calculation of related unrecognized deferred tax liability is not practicable.


- 130 -

 

A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amounts of unrecognized tax benefits for the three years ended March 31, 2009 and 2008,2010 is as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Balance at beginning of year

  (9,327 (4,281  (7,187 (9,327 (4,281

Increase related to prior year tax positions

  (1,835 (4,657  (685 (1,835 (4,657

Decrease related to prior year tax positions

  3,561   82    1,780   3,561   82  

Increase related to current year tax positions

  (484 (2,023  (1,195 (484 (2,023

Change in consolidated subsidiaries

  (3,339 —     —    

Settlements

  60   1,552    747   60   1,552  

Translation adjustments

  838   —      36   838   —    
  

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  (7,187 (9,327  (9,843 (7,187 (9,327
  

 

  

 

 

 

As of March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits are 9,843 million yen, 7,187 million yen and 8,287 million yen, respectively, that if recognized, would reduce the effective tax rate. The Company does not expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change within the next twelve months. The Company has accrued interests and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits and the amount of interest and penalties included in provision for income taxes and cumulative amount accrued were not material as of and for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

 

The Company files income tax returns in Japan and various foreign tax jurisdictions. There are a number of subsidiaries which operate within each of the Company’s major jurisdictions resulting in a range of open tax years. The open tax years for the Company is fiscal 2010, and its significant subsidiaries in Japan, the United States of America, the United Kingdom and China range from fiscal 2004 and thereafter.


- 125131 -

 

(11)(12)Stockholders’ Equity

 

The Company may repurchase its common stock from the market pursuant to the former Japanese Commercial Code and the Company Law of Japan. For the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, 53,863, 30,875,208 and 2007, respectively, 30,875,208, 45,294,912 and 63,385,266 shares were repurchased for the aggregate cost of approximately 72 million yen, 72,416 million yen 103,112 million yen and 153,179103,112 million yen, respectively, primarily with the intention to hold as treasury stock to improve capital efficiency.

 

The Company sold 17,731, 399,673 127,610 and 137,733127,610 shares of its treasury stock for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, respectively. The difference between sales price and book value was charged to capital surplus in the consolidated balance sheets.

 

The Company Law of Japan provides that an amount equal to 10% of appropriations be appropriated as a capital reserve or legal reserve until the aggregated amount of capital reserve and legal reserve equals 25% of stated capital. The capital reserve and legal reserve are not available for dividends but may be transferred to capital surplus or retained earnings or stated capital upon approval of the shareholders’ meeting.

 

Cash dividends and transfers to the legal reserve charged to retained earnings during the three years ended March 31, 20092010 represent dividends paid out during the periods and related appropriation to the legal reserve. Cash dividends per share paid during the three years ended March 31, 20092010 amounted to 12.50 yen, 40.00 yen 32.50 yen and 25.0032.50 yen, respectively. The accompanying consolidated financial statements do not include any provisions for the year-end dividend of 7.505.0 yen per share, totaling approximately 15,53010,353 million yen in respect of the year ended March 31, 20092010 approved by the board of directors in May 2009.2010.

 

In accordance with the Company Law of Japan, there are certain restrictions on payment of dividends in connection with the treasury stock repurchased. As a result of restrictions on the treasury stock repurchased, retained earnings of 671,182671,223 million yen at March 31, 20092010 were restricted as to the payment of cash dividends.

 

The Company’s directors and certain senior executives were granted options to purchase the Company’s common stock. All stock options become fully exercisable two years from the date of grant and have a four-year term. Information with respect to stock options is as follows:

 

  Number of
shares


 Weighted-average
exercise price (Yen)


Balance at March 31, 2006

  168,000   2,280

Exercised

  (48,000 1,922

Forfeited

  (73,000 2,690
  

 
  Number of
shares


 Weighted-average
exercise price (Yen)


Balance at March 31, 2007

  47,000   2,008  47,000   2,008

Exercised

  (8,000 1,895  (8,000 1,895

Forfeited

  (27,000 2,163  (27,000 2,163
  

 
  

 

Balance at March 31, 2008

  12,000   1,734  12,000   1,734

Forfeited

  (12,000 1,734  (12,000 1,734
  

 
  

 

Balance at March 31, 2009

  —     —    —     —  

Balance at March 31, 2010

  —     —  
  

 
  

 

 

Treasury stock reserved for options at March 31, 2007 was 30,000 shares. There was no treasury stock reserved for options from March 31, 2008 through 2010.


- 126132 -

 

(12)(13)Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

 

Components of other comprehensive income (loss) for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  Pre-tax
amount


 Tax
expense


 Net-of-tax
amount


   Pre-tax
amount


 Tax
expense


 Net-of-tax
amount


 

For the year ended March 31, 2009

   

For the year ended March 31, 2010

   

Translation adjustments:

      

Translation adjustments arising during the period

  (116,738 —     (116,738  (21,186 —     (21,186

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

  3,938   —     3,938    10,129   —     10,129  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net translation adjustments

  (112,800 —     (112,800  (11,057 —     (11,057
  

 

 

  

 

 

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of available-for-sale securities:

      

Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period

  (167,397 67,907   (99,490  88,042   (36,356 51,686  

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

  73,075   (29,590 43,485    (703 280   (423
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net unrealized gains (losses)

  (94,322 38,317   (56,005  87,339   (36,076 51,263  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of derivative instruments:

      

Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period

  (4,043 1,565   (2,478  4,607   (1,543 3,064  

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

  (10,855 4,118   (6,737  4,657   (1,560 3,097  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net unrealized gains (losses)

  (14,898 5,683   (9,215  9,264   (3,103 6,161  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Pension liability adjustments:

      

Prior service benefit arising during the period

  345   (140 205    —     —     —    

Less: Amortization of prior service benefit included in net periodic benefit cost

  (22,727 7,742   (14,985  (23,947 8,962   (14,985
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net prior service benefit

  (22,382 7,602   (14,780  (23,947 8,962   (14,985
  

 

 

  

 

 

Actuarial loss arising during the period

  (273,853 100,104   (173,749

Less: Amortization of actuarial loss included in net periodic benefit cost

  26,422   (6,782 19,640  

Actuarial gain (loss) arising during the period

  139,867   (49,300 90,567  

Less: Amortization of actuarial gain (loss) included in net periodic benefit cost

  39,159   (14,963 24,196  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net actuarial loss

  (247,431 93,322   (154,109

Net actuarial gain (loss)

  179,026   (64,263 114,763  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net pension liability adjustments

  (269,813 100,924   (168,889  155,079   (55,301 99,778  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  (491,833 144,924   (346,909  240,625   (94,480 146,145  
  

 

 

  

 

 


- 127133 -

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  Pre-tax
amount


 Tax
expense


 Net-of-tax
amount


   Pre-tax
amount


 Tax
expense


 Net-of-tax
amount


 

For the year ended March 31, 2008

   

For the year ended March 31, 2009

   

Translation adjustments:

      

Translation adjustments arising during the period

  (128,047 —     (128,047  (116,738 —     (116,738

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income

  (1,207 —     (1,207

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

  3,938   —     3,938  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net translation adjustments

  (129,254 —     (129,254  (112,800 —     (112,800
  

 

 

  

 

 

Unrealized holding gains of available-for-sale securities:

   

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of available-for-sale securities:

   

Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period

  (199,198 83,370   (115,828  (167,397 67,907   (99,490

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income

  735   (296 439  

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

  73,075   (29,590 43,485  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net unrealized gains (losses)

  (198,463 83,074   (115,389  (94,322 38,317   (56,005
  

 

 

  

 

 

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of derivative instruments:

      

Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period

  5,014   (1,914 3,100    (4,043 1,565   (2,478

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income

  612   (248 364  

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income (loss)

  (10,855 4,118   (6,737
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net unrealized gains (losses)

  5,626   (2,162 3,464    (14,898 5,683   (9,215
  

 

 

  

 

 

Pension liability adjustments:

      

Prior service benefit arising during the period

  1,954   (6 1,948    345   (140 205  

Less: Amortization of prior service benefit included in net periodic benefit cost

  (24,197 7,806   (16,391  (22,727 7,742   (14,985
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net prior service benefit

  (22,243 7,800   (14,443  (22,382 7,602   (14,780
  

 

 

  

 

 

Actuarial loss arising during the period

  (62,744 27,095   (35,649

Less: Amortization of actuarial loss included in net periodic benefit cost

  13,660   (3,383 10,277  

Actuarial gain (loss) arising during the period

  (273,853 100,104   (173,749

Less: Amortization of actuarial gain (loss) included in net periodic benefit cost

  26,422   (6,782 19,640  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net actuarial loss

  (49,084 23,712   (25,372

Net actuarial gain (loss)

  (247,431 93,322   (154,109
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net pension liability adjustments

  (71,327 31,512   (39,815  (269,813 100,924   (168,889
  

 

 

  

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  (393,418 112,424   (280,994  (491,833 144,924   (346,909
  

 

 

  

 

 


- 128134 -

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  Pre-tax
amount


 Tax
expense


 Net-of-tax
amount


   Pre-tax
amount

 Tax
expense


 Net-of-tax
amount


 

For the year ended March 31, 2007

   

For the year ended March 31, 2008

   

Translation adjustments:

      

Translation adjustments arising during the period

  57,312   —     57,312    (128,047 —     (128,047

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income

  5,481   —     5,481    (1,207 —     (1,207
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net translation adjustments

  62,793   —     62,793    (129,254 —     (129,254
  

 

 

  

 

 

Unrealized holding gains of available-for-sale securities:

      

Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period

  36,467   (12,232 24,235    (199,198 83,370   (115,828

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income

  (11,200 2,490   (8,710  735   (296 439  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net unrealized gains (losses)

  25,267   (9,742 15,525    (198,463 83,074   (115,389
  

 

 

  

 

 

Unrealized holding gains (losses) of derivative instruments:

      

Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period

  (19,778 7,900   (11,878  5,014   (1,914 3,100  

Less: Reclassification adjustment for (gains) losses included in net income

  19,183   (7,769 11,414    612   (248 364  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Net unrealized gains (losses)

  (595 131   (464  5,626   (2,162 3,464  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Minimum pension liability adjustments

  (5,722 (47 (5,769

Pension liability adjustments:

   

Prior service benefit arising during the period

  1,954   (6 1,948  

Less: Amortization of prior service benefit included in net periodic benefit cost

  (24,197 7,806   (16,391
  

 

 

Net prior service benefit

  (22,243 7,800   (14,443
  

 

 

Actuarial gain (loss) arising during the period

  (62,744 27,095   (35,649

Less: Amortization of actuarial gain (loss) included in net periodic benefit cost

  13,660   (3,383 10,277  
  

 

 

Net actuarial gain (loss)

  (49,084 23,712   (25,372
  

 

 

Net pension liability adjustments

  (71,327 31,512   (39,815
  

 

 

  

 

 

Other comprehensive income (loss)

  81,743   (9,658 72,085    (393,418 112,424   (280,994
  

 

 

  

 

 


- 129135 -

 

(13)(14)Net Income (loss)(Loss) per Share Attributable to Panasonic Corporation Common Shareholders

 

A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders computation for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 is as follows:

 

   Yen (millions)

       2009    

      2008    

      2007    

Net income (loss)

  (378,961 281,877  217,185
   Yen (millions)

       2010    

      2009    

      2008    

Net income (loss) attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders

  (103,465 (378,961 281,877

 

  Number of shares

  Number of shares

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

  2008

Average common shares outstanding

  2,079,296,525  2,120,986,052  2,182,791,138  2,070,623,618  2,079,296,525  2,120,986,052

Dilutive effect:

                  

Stock options

  —    3,818  13,858     —    3,818
  
  
  
     
  

Diluted common shares outstanding

  2,079,296,525  2,120,989,870  2,182,804,996     2,079,296,525  2,120,989,870
  
  
  
     
  

 

  Yen

  Yen

      2009    

     2008    

      2007    

      2010    

     2009    

     2008    

Net income (loss) per share:

      

Net income (loss) per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders:

   

Basic

  (182.25     132.90      99.50  (49.97 (182.25 132.90

Diluted

  (182.25     132.90      99.50  —     (182.25 132.90

Diluted net income (loss) per share attributable to Panasonic Corporation common shareholders for the year ended March 31, 2010 has been omitted because the Company did not have potentially dilutive common shares that were outstanding for the period.

 

The effect of stock options was not included in the calculation of diluted net loss per share for the year ended March 31, 200931,2009 as the effect would be antidilutive due to the net loss incurred for the year.


- 136 -

 

(14)(15)Restructuring Charges

 

In connection with the reorganization of the Company’s operations, the Company has incurred certain restructuring charges. Components and related amounts of the restructuring charges, before the related tax effects, for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

  2008

Expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs:

                  

Domestic

  26,452  27,050  8,733  33,070  26,452  27,050

Overseas

  11,899  5,594  5,465  5,884  11,899  5,594
  
  
  
  
  
  

Total

  38,351  32,644  14,198  38,954  38,351  32,644

Expenses associated with the closure and integration of locations

  15,049  6,922  5,376  15,918  15,049  6,922
  
  
  
  
  
  

Total restructuring charges

  53,400  39,566  19,574  54,872  53,400  39,566
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

These restructuring charges are included in other deductions in the consolidated statements of operations.


- 130 -

 

The Company has provided early retirement programs to those employees voluntarily leaving the Company. The accrued early retirement programs are recognized when the employees accept the offer and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Expenses associated with the closure and integration of locations include amounts such as moving expenses of facilities and costs to terminate leasing contracts incurred at domestic and overseas manufacturing plants and sales offices. An analysis of the accrued restructuring charges for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008 is as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Balance at beginning of year

  4,761   10,020   1,335    32,523   4,761   10,020  

New charges

  53,400   39,566   19,574    54,872   53,400   39,566  

Cash payments

  (25,638 (44,825 (10,889  (78,006 (25,638 (44,825
  

 

 

  

 

 

Balance at end of year

  32,523   4,761   10,020    9,389   32,523   4,761  
  

 

 

  

 

 


- 137 -

The following represents significant restructuring activities for the year ended March 31, 2010 by business segment:

Digital AVC Networks

Digital AVC Networks segment continued selection and concentration of its businesses for improving its cost competitiveness. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of the early retirement programs in Japan.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 15,409 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 11,757 million yen.

Home Appliances

Home Appliances segment restructured its operations to accelerate concentration of its business for strengthening its management structure. The restructuring activities were mainly integrations of overseas manufacturing bases and the early retirement programs in Japan.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 8,561 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 5,145 million yen.

PEW and PanaHome

PEW and PanaHome segment restructured to improve cost efficiency in Japan and overseas bases.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 6,975 million yen.

Components and Devices

Components and Devices segment restructured to mainly improve efficiency and cost effectiveness in Japan.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 8,173 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 6,451 million yen.

SANYO

SANYO segment restructured to mainly improve cost effectiveness in Japan.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 3,483 million yen.

Other

Other segment restructured mainly to improve efficiency in domestic companies.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 12,271 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 10,300 million yen.


- 138 -

 

The following represents significant restructuring activities for the year ended March 31, 2009 by business segment:

 

Digital AVC Networks

Digital AVC Networks segment restructured mainly to accelerate selection and concentration of its businesses for improving its cost competitiveness. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of the implementation of early retirement programs in Japan.

 

Total restructuring charges amounted to 34,748 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 29,029 million yen.

 

Home Appliances

Home Appliances segment restructured its operations to accelerate concentration of its business for strengthening its management structure. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of integrations in Japan.

 

Total restructuring charges amounted to 3,206 million yen.

 

PEW and PanaHome

PEW and PanaHome segment restructured mainly its housing business in Japan.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 5,673 million yen.

 

Components and Devices

Components and Devices segment restructured mainly to improve efficiency in its components business.

 

Total restructuring charges amounted to 3,957 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 3,277 million yen.

 

Other

Other segment restructured mainly to improve efficiency in overseas sales companies.

 

The restructuring charges amounted to 5,816 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 4,145 million yen.


- 139 -

 

The following represents significant restructuring activities for the year ended March 31, 2008 by business segment:

 

Digital AVC Networks

Digital AVC Networks segment restructured mainly to accelerate selection and concentration of its businesses for improving its cost competitiveness. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of the implementation of early retirement programs in Japan.


- 131 -

 

Total restructuring charges amounted to 15,356 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 14,168 million yen.

 

Home Appliances

Home Appliances segment restructured its operations to accelerate concentration of its business for strengthening its management structure. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of integrations in Japan.

 

Total restructuring charges amounted to 8,375 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 5,611 million yen.

 

PEW and PanaHome

PEW and PanaHome segment mainly restructured its housing business in Japan. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of the implementation of early retirement programs.

 

Total restructuring charges amounted to 11,581 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 8,888 million yen.

 

Components and Devices

Components and Devices segment restructured mainly to improve efficiency in its battery business.

 

Total restructuring charges amounted to 3,128 million yen.

 

JVC

JVC segment incurred restructuring charges in the amount of 750 million yen in its domestic entertainment business.

 

Other

Other segment incurred restructuring charges in the amount of 376 million yen mainly in overseas sales companies.

The following represents significant restructuring activities for the year ended March 31, 2007 by business segment:

Digital AVC Networks

Digital AVC Networks segment restructured mainly to accelerate selection and concentration of its businesses for strengthening its management structure. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of the implementation of early retirement programs in Japan and Europe.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 11,909 million yen, including expenses associated with the implementation of early retirement programs of 10,440 million yen.

Home Appliances

Home Appliances segment restructured its operations. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of closure and integrations in Japan.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 3,113 million yen.

PEW and PanaHome

PEW and PanaHome segment incurred restructuring charges in the amount of 328 million yen mainly in Japan.


- 132140 -

Components and Devices

Components and Devices segment restructured mainly to enhance cost competitiveness as well as to address continuous price declines. The restructuring activities mainly consisted of the implementation of early retirement programs in Asia for electronic devices business.

Total restructuring charges amounted to 3,468 million yen.

JVC

JVC segment incurred restructuring charges in the amount of 531 million yen mainly in Asia.

Other

Other segment incurred restructuring charges in the amount of 225 million yen mainly in domestic sales companies.

 

(15)(16)Supplementary Information to the Statements of Operations and Cash Flows

 

Research and development costs, advertising costs, shipping and handling costs and depreciation charged to income for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

  2008

Research and development costs

  517,913  554,538  578,087  476,903  517,913  554,538

Advertising costs

  174,939  200,890  199,155  150,866  174,939  200,890

Shipping and handling costs

  146,920  159,418  170,311  129,114  146,920  159,418

Depreciation

  325,835  282,102  280,177  251,839  325,835  282,102

 

Foreign exchange losses included in other deductions for the years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 and 2007 are 3,486 million yen, 7,501 million yen 11,492 million yen and 18,95011,492 million yen, respectively.

 

Shipping and handling costs are included in selling, general and administrative expenses in the consolidated statements of operations.


- 133 -

 

In fiscal 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, the Company sold, without recourse, trade receivables of 443,673 million yen, 458,321 million yen 443,464 million yen and 315,329443,464 million yen to independent third parties for proceeds of 442,779 million yen, 456,870 million yen 441,778 million yen and 314,265441,778 million yen, and recorded losses on the sale of trade receivables of 894 million yen, 1,451 million yen 1,686 million yen and 1,0641,686 million yen, respectively. In fiscal 2010, 2009 2008 and 2007,2008, the Company sold, with recourse, trade receivables of 355,512 million yen, 411,778 million yen 397,796 million yen and 303,769397,796 million yen to independent third parties for proceeds of 355,113 million yen, 411,022 million yen 397,421 million yen and 303,561397,421 million yen, and recorded losses on the sale of trade receivables of 399 million yen, 756 million yen 375 million yen and 208375 million yen, respectively. Those losses are mainly included in selling, general and administrative expenses. The Company is responsible for servicing the receivables. Included in trade notes receivable and trade accounts receivable at March 31, 20092010 are amounts of 37,96237,619 million yen without recourse and 28,39426,576 million yen with recourse scheduled to be sold to independent third parties. The sale of trade receivables was accounted for under SFAS No. 140, “Accounting for Transferthe provision of ASC 860, “Transfers and Servicing, of Financial Assets and Extinguishments of Liabilities,” which provides accounting and reporting standards for transfer and servicing of financial assets and extinguishments of liabilities.


- 141 -

 

Interest expenses and income taxes paid, and noncash investing and financing activities for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

  2008

Cash paid:

                  

Interest

  19,627  20,911  22,202  26,301  19,627  20,911

Income taxes

  95,198  122,416  109,692  51,441  95,198  122,416

Noncash investing and financing activities:

                  

Capital leases

  12,235  36,330  27,803  37,505  12,235  36,330

 

JVC and its subsidiaries became associated companies under equity method from consolidated companies in August, 2007. Certain financial information of JVC and its subsidiaries at the date of deconsolidation is as follows:

 

   Yen (millions)

Assets:

   

Current assets

  311,080

Other assets

  115,546
   

Total

  426,626
   

Liabilities:

   

Current liabilities

  242,336

Other liabilities

  36,149
   

Total

  278,485
   


- 134142 -

 

(16)(17)Derivatives and Hedging Activities

 

The Company operates internationally, giving rise to significant exposure to market risks arising from changes in foreign exchange rates, interest rates and commodity prices. The Company assesses these risks by continually monitoring changes in these exposures and by evaluating hedging opportunities. Derivative financial instruments utilized by the Company to hedge these risks are comprised principally of foreign exchange contracts, interest rate swaps, cross currency swaps and commodity derivatives. The Company does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purpose.

 

Gains and losses related to derivative instruments are classified in other income (deductions) and cost of sales in the consolidated statements of operations. The amount of the hedging ineffectiveness and net gain or loss excluded from the assessment of hedge effectiveness is not material for the three years ended March 31, 2009. Amounts included in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) at March 31, 20092010 are expected to be recognized in earnings principally over the next twelve months. The maximum term over which the Company is hedging exposures to the variability of cash flows for foreign currency exchange risk is approximately five months.

 

The Company is exposed to credit risk in the event of non-performance by counterparties to the derivative contracts, but such risk is considered mitigated by the high credit rating of the counterparties.

 

The contract amounts of foreign exchange contracts, interest rate swaps, cross currency swaps and commodity futures at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2010

  2009

Forward:

            

To sell foreign currencies

  334,586  312,390  375,430  334,586

To buy foreign currencies

  190,495  185,267  196,439  190,495

Cross currency swaps

  33,953  32,717  31,797  33,953

Interest rate swaps

  33,702  —  

Commodity futures:

            

To sell commodity

  48,858  129,425  40,194  48,858

To buy commodity

  168,527  294,884  113,682  168,527


- 143 -

 

From the interim reporting period for the three months endedThe fair values of derivative instruments at March 31, 2009, the Company adopted SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities—an amendment of FASB statement No. 133.” SFAS No. 161 requires disclosures of how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows.2010 are as follows:

   Yen (millions)

 
   Asset derivatives

  Liability derivatives

 
   Consolidated balance
sheet location


  Fair
value


  Consolidated balance
sheet location


  Fair
value


 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815:

             

Foreign exchange contracts

  Other current assets  415  Other current liabilities  (1,971

Commodity futures

  Other current assets  11,330  Other current liabilities  (3,345
      
     

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815

     11,745     (5,316
      
     

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815:

             

Foreign exchange contracts

  Other current assets  8,590  Other current liabilities  (2,307

Cross currency swaps

  —    —    Other current liabilities  (283

Interest rate swaps

  Other current assets  23  —    —    

Commodity futures

  Other current assets  1,231  Other current liabilities  (1,231
      
     

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815

     9,844     (3,821
      
     

Total derivatives

     21,589     (9,137
      
     

 

The fair values of derivative instruments at March 31, 2009 are as follows:

 

   Yen (millions)

 
   Asset derivatives

  Liability derivatives

 
   Consolidated balance
sheet location


  Fair
value


  Consolidated balance
sheet location


  Fair
value


 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under SFAS No. 133:

             

Foreign exchange

    contracts

  Other current assets  2,299  Other current liabilities  (9,094

Cross currency swaps

  Other current assets  275  Other current liabilities  —    

Commodity futures

  Other current assets  9,285  Other current liabilities  (53,050
      
     

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under SFAS No. 133

     11,859     (62,144
      
     

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under SFAS No. 133:

             

Foreign exchange contracts

  Other current assets  204  Other current liabilities  (808

Cross currency swaps

  Other current assets  1,260  Other current liabilities  —    

Commodity futures

  Other current assets  4,670  Other current liabilities  (4,670
      
     

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under SFAS No. 133

     6,134     (5,478
      
     

Total derivatives

     17,993     (67,622
      
     

   Yen (millions)

 
   Asset derivatives

  Liability derivatives

 
   Consolidated balance
sheet location


  Fair
value


  Consolidated balance
sheet location


  Fair
value


 

Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815:

             

Foreign exchange contracts

  Other current assets  2,299  Other current liabilities  (9,094

Cross currency swaps

  Other current assets  275  —    —    

Commodity futures

  Other current assets  9,285  Other current liabilities  (53,050
      
     

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815

     11,859     (62,144
      
     

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815:

             

Foreign exchange contracts

  Other current assets  204  Other current liabilities  (808

Cross currency swaps

  Other current assets  1,260  —    —    

Commodity futures

  Other current assets  4,670  Other current liabilities  (4,670
      
     

Total derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under
ASC 815

     6,134     (5,478
      
     

Total derivatives

     17,993     (67,622
      
     


- 135144 -

The effect of derivative instruments on the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended March 31, 2010 is as follows:

Yen (millions)


Hedging instruments in
ASC 815 fair value
hedging relationships


Location of gain or (loss)
recognized in operations


Amount of gain or (loss)
recognized in operations


Commodity futures

Other income (deductions)41,003

Total

41,003

Yen (millions)


Related hedged items in
ASC 815 fair value
hedging relationships


Location of gain or (loss)
recognized in operations


Amount of gain or (loss)
recognized in operations


Trade accounts receivable (payable)

Other income (deductions)(39,024)

Total

(39,024)

Fair value hedges resulted in gains of 1,979 million yen of ineffectiveness.

Yen (millions)


Derivatives in
ASC 815 cash flow
hedging relationships


  

Amount of gain or (loss)
recognized in OCI
on derivative
(effective portion)


  

Location of gain or (loss)

reclassified from
accumulated OCI

into operations

(effective portion)


  

Amount of gain or (loss)
reclassified from
accumulated OCI

into operations

(effective portion)


Foreign exchange contracts

     (613)  Other income (deductions)  (4,599)

Cross currency swaps

     (291)  Other income (deductions)       (16)

Commodity futures

  3,611  Cost of sales       (42)
   
     

Total

  2,707     (4,657)
   
     

Yen (millions)


Derivatives in
ASC 815 cash flow
hedging relationships


Location of gain or (loss) recognized in
operations on derivative
(ineffective portion and amount

excluded from effectiveness testing)


Amount of gain or (loss) recognized in
operations on derivative
(ineffective portion and amount
excluded from effectiveness testing)


Foreign exchange contracts

Other income (deductions)               1,228

Cross currency swaps

—                 —  

Commodity futures

—                 —  

Total

               1,228

Yen (millions)


Derivatives not designated as

hedging instruments

under ASC 815


Location of gain or (loss) recognized in
operations on derivative


Amount of gain or (loss) recognized in
operations on derivative


Foreign exchange contracts

Other income (deductions)2,950

Cross currency swaps

Other income (deductions)(1,543)

Interest rate swaps

Other income (deductions)        (3)

Commodity futures

Other income (deductions)        0

Total

1,404


- 145 -

 

The effect of derivative instruments on the consolidated statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2009 is as follows:

 

Yen (millions)


DerivativesHedging instruments in SFAS No. 133
ASC 815 fair value
hedging relationships


 

Location of gain or (loss)
recognized
in operations on derivative


 

Amount of gain or (loss)
recognized
in operations on derivative


Commodity futures

 Other income (deductions) 5,700
    

Total

   5,700
    

 

Derivatives in SFAS No. 133 

cash flow hedging relationships


  

Amount of gain or
(loss) recognized in OCI
on derivative
(effective portion)


  

Location of gain or (loss)
reclassified from
accumulated OCI
into operations
(effective portion)


  

Amount of gain or (loss)
reclassified from
accumulated OCI
into operations
(effective portion)


Foreign exchange contracts

  (9,251)  Other income (deductions)      2,355

Cross currency swaps

       (90)  Other income (deductions)          (16)

Commodity futures

  2,484  Cost of sales     (1,879)
   
     

Total

  (6,857)           460
   
     

Yen (millions)


Related hedged items in
ASC 815 fair value
hedging relationships


Location of gain or (loss)
recognized in operations


Amount of gain or (loss)
recognized in operations


Trade accounts
receivable (payable)

Other income (deductions)(5,352)

Total

(5,352)

Fair value hedges resulted in gains of 348 million yen of ineffectiveness.

Yen (millions)


Derivatives in
ASC 815 cash flow
hedging relationships


  

Amount of gain or (loss)
recognized in OCI
on derivative
(effective portion)


  

Location of gain or (loss)
reclassified from
accumulated OCI
into operations
(effective portion)


  

Amount of gain or (loss)
reclassified from
accumulated OCI
into operations
(effective portion)


Foreign exchange contracts

  (9,251)  Other income (deductions)      2,355

Cross currency swaps

       (90)  Other income (deductions)          (16)

Commodity futures

  2,484  Cost of sales     (1,879)
   
     

Total

  (6,857)           460
   
     

 

Yen (millions)


Derivatives in SFAS No. 133


ASC 815 cash flow
hedging relationships


  

Location of gain or (loss) recognized

in
operations on derivative


(ineffective portion and amount
excluded from effectiveness testing)


  

Amount of gain or (loss) recognized in
operations on derivative


(ineffective portion and amount
excluded from effectiveness testing)


Foreign exchange contracts

  Other income (deductions)  (1,226)

Cross currency swaps

  —    —  

Commodity futures

  —    —  
      

Total

     (1,226)
      

 

Yen (millions)


Derivatives not designated as
hedging instruments
under SFAS No. 133ASC 815


  

Location of gain or (loss) recognized in
in operations on derivative
(ineffective portion and amount
excluded from effectiveness testing)


  

Amount of gain or (loss) recognized

in
operations on derivative
(ineffective portion and amount
excluded from effectiveness testing)


Foreign exchange contracts

  Other income (deductions)     814

Cross currency swaps

  Other income (deductions)  1,624

Commodity futures

  Other income (deductions)         0
      

Total

     2,438
      


- 136146 -

 

(17)(18)Fair Value of Financial Instruments

 

The following methods and assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of each class of financial instruments for which it is practicable to estimate that value:

 

Cash and cash equivalents, Time deposits, Trade receivables, Short-term borrowings,debt, Trade payables and Accrued expenses

The carrying amount approximates fair value because of the short maturity of these instruments.

 

Short-term investments

The fair value of short-term investments is estimated based on quoted market prices.

 

Investments and advances

The fair value of investments and advances is estimated based on quoted market prices or the present value of future cash flows using appropriate current discount rates.

 

Long-term debt

The fair value of long-term debt is estimated based on quoted market prices or the present value of future cash flows using appropriate current discount rates.


- 137 -

 

Derivative financial instruments

The fair value of derivative financial instruments, all of which are used for hedging purposes, is estimated based on unadjusted market prices or quotes obtained from brokers, which are estimatedperiodically validated by obtaining quotes from brokers.pricing models using observable inactive market inputs.

 

The estimated fair values of financial instruments, all of which are held or issued for purposes other than trading, at March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 
  Carrying
amount


 Fair
value


 Carrying
amount


 Fair
value


   Carrying
amount


 Fair
value


 Carrying
amount


 Fair
value


 

Non-derivatives:

      

Assets:

      

Short-term investments

  1,998   1,998   47,414   47,414    —     —     1,998   1,998  

Other investments and advances

  424,237   423,223   686,510   686,575    454,313   454,516   424,237   423,223  

Liabilities:

      

Long-term debt, including current portion

  (697,653 (698,502 (310,348 (312,674  (1,236,052 (1,250,048 (697,653 (698,502

Derivatives:

      

Other current assets:

      

Forward:

      

To sell foreign currencies

  —     —     11,682   11,682    3,511   3,511   —     —    

To buy foreign currencies

  2,503   2,503   —     —      5,494   5,494   2,503   2,503  

Cross currency swaps

  1,535   1,535   —     —      —     —     1,535   1,535  

Interest rate swaps

  23   23   —     —    

Commodity futures:

      

To sell commodity

  13,955   13,955   —     —      —     —     13,955   13,955  

To buy commodity

  —     —     28,325   28,325    12,561   12,561   —     —    

Other current liabilities:

      

Forward:

      

To sell foreign currencies

  (9,902 (9,902 —     —      (2,390 (2,390 (9,902 (9,902

To buy foreign currencies

  —     —     (2,388 (2,388  (1,888 (1,888 —     —    

Cross currency swaps

  —     —     (874 (874  (283 (283 —     —    

Commodity futures:

      

To sell commodity

  —     —     (9,746 (9,746  (4,576 (4,576 —     —    

To buy commodity

  (57,720 (57,720 —     —      —     —     (57,720 (57,720


- 147 -

 

Limitations

Fair value estimates are made at a specific point in time, based on relevant market information and information about the financial instruments. These estimates are subjective in nature and involve uncertainties and matters of significant judgementsjudgments and therefore cannot be determined with precision. Changes in assumptions could significantly affect the estimates.

 

On April 1, 2008, the Company adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements.” SFAS No. 157The provisions of ASC 820 defines fair value and establishes a fair value hierarchy that prioritizes the inputs to valuation techniques used to measure fair value. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are as follows:

 

Level 1 — Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets.
Level 2 — Quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable, and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.
Level 3 — Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability.

 

The following table presents assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis at March 31, 2010 and 2009:

 

   Yen (millions)

 
   2010

 
   Level 1

  Level 2

  Level 3

  Total

 

Assets:

             

Available-for-sale securities:

             

Equity securities

  379,358   —     —    379,358  

Corporate and government bonds

  —     3,961   —    3,961  

Other debt securities

  —     585   —    585  
   

 

 
  

Total available-for-sale securities

  379,358   4,546   —    383,904  
   

 

 
  

Derivatives:

             

Foreign exchange contracts

  —     9,005   —    9,005  

Interest rate swaps

  —     23   —    23  

Commodity futures

  12,561   —     —    12,561  
   

 

 
  

Total derivatives

  12,561   9,028   —    21,589  
   

 

 
  

Total

  391,919   13,574   —    405,493  
   

 

 
  

Liabilities:

             

Derivatives:

             

Foreign exchange contracts

  —     (4,278 —    (4,278

Cross currency swaps

  —     (283 —    (283

Commodity futures

  (3,345 (1,231 —    (4,576
   

 

 
  

Total derivatives

  (3,345 (5,792 —    (9,137
   

 

 
  

Total

  (3,345 (5,792 —    (9,137
   

 

 
  

 


- 138 -

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

   2009

 
  Level 1

 Level 2

 Level 3

  Total

   Level 1

 Level 2

 Level 3

  Total

 

Assets:

            

Available-for-sale securities

  284,356   11,908   —    296,264  

Available-for-sale securities:

      

Equity securities

  284,356   —     —    284,356  

Corporate and government bonds

  —     6,393   —    6,393  

Other debt securities

  —     5,515   —    5,515  

Derivatives

  9,285   8,708   —    17,993    9,285   8,708   —    17,993  
  

 

 
  

  

 

 
  

Total

  293,641   20,616   —    314,257    293,641   20,616   —    314,257  
  

 

 
  

  

 

 
  

Liabilities:

            

Derivatives

  (57,720 (9,902 —    (67,622  (57,720 (9,902 —    (67,622
  

 

 
  

  

 

 
  

Total

  (57,720 (9,902 —    (67,622  (57,720 (9,902 —    (67,622
  

 

 
  

  

 

 
  

 

The Company’s existing marketable equity securities and commodity futures are included in Level 1, which are valued using an unadjusted quoted market price in active markets with sufficient volume and frequency of transactions.


- 148 -

 

Level 2 available-for-sale securities include all debt securities, which are valued using inputs other than quoted prices that are observable. ForeignLevel 2 derivatives including foreign exchange contracts and commodity futures included in Level 2 derivatives are valued using quotes obtained from brokers, which are periodically validated by pricing models using observable market inputs, such as foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates.market prices for commodity futures.

 

The following table presents assets and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis for the years ended March 31, 2010 and 2009:

   Yen (millions)

   2010

   Total gains
(losses)


  Fair value

   Level 1

  Level 2

  Level 3

  Total

Assets:

               

Investments in associated companies

  (3,605 1,058  —    1,980  3,038

Long-lived assets

  (79,259 —    —    27,800  27,800

Goodwill

  (3,745 —    —    0  0

   Yen (millions)

   2009

   Total  gains
(losses)

  Fair value

   Level 1

  Level 2

  Level 3

  Total

Assets:

               

Investments in associated companies

  (18,121 9,326  —    2,151  11,477

During the year ended March 31, 2010, the Company recorded a write-downclassified most of 18,121 million yen of securities under investments and advancesassets described above in associated companies with a carryingLevel 3 as the Company used unobservable inputs to value of 29,598 million yen,these assets when recognizing impairment losses related to the estimatedassets. The fair value of 11,477 million yen for other-than-temporary impairment.the major assets was measured through estimated future cash flows. The Company classified certain investments in Level 1 as the Company used an unadjusted quoted market price in active markets as input to value the investment.

During the year ended March 31, 2009, the Company classified the impaired security, representing a substantial portion of the write-down, in Level 1 as the Company used an unadjusted quoted market price in active markets as input to value the investment. The remaining impaired security is classified in Level 3 as the Company used unobservable inputs to value the investment.


- 149 -

 

(18)(19)Commitments and Contingent Liabilities

 

The Company provides guarantees to third parties mainly on bank loans provided to associated companies and customers. The guarantees are made to enhance their credit. For each guarantee provided, the Company is required to perform under the guarantee if the guaranteed party defaults on a payment. Also, as discussed in Note 15,16, the Company sold certain trade receivables to independent third parties, some of which are with recourse. If the collectibility of those receivables with recourse becomes doubtful, the Company is obligated to assume the liabilities. At March 31, 2009,2010, the maximum amount of undiscounted payments the Company would have to make in the event of default is 33,434was 38,480 million yen. The carrying amount of the liabilities recognized for the Company’s obligations as a guarantor under those guarantees at March 31, 2010 and 2009 and 2008 waswere immaterial.

 

As discussed in Note 5,6, in connection with the sale and leaseback of certain machinery and equipment, the Company guarantees a specific value of the leased assets. For each guarantee provided, the Company is required to perform under the guarantee if certain conditions are met during or at the end of the lease term. At March 31, 2009,2010, the maximum amount of undiscounted payments the Company would have to make in the event that these conditions arewere met is 32,613was 40,528 million yen. The carrying amount of the liabilities recognized for the Company’s obligations as guarantorsa guarantor under those guarantees at March 31, 2010 and 2009 and 2008 waswere immaterial.


- 150 -

 

The Company issues contractual product warranties under which it generally guarantees the performance of products delivered and services rendered for a certain period or term. The change in accrued warranty costs for the years ended March 31, 20092010 and 20082009 are summarized as follows:


- 139 -

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

   2010

 2009

 

Balance at beginning of year

  36,178   38,079    41,478   36,178  

Change in consolidated subsidiaries

  —     (5,189  4,253   —    

Liabilities accrued for warranties issued during the period

  51,526   42,178    51,704   51,526  

Warranty claims paid during the period

  (45,797 (37,016  (45,489 (45,797

Changes in liabilities for pre-existing warranties during the period, including expirations

  (429 (1,874  (640 (429
  

 

  

 

Balance at end of year

  41,478   36,178    51,306   41,478  
  

 

  

 

 

At March 31, 2009,2010, commitments outstanding for the purchase of property, plant and equipment approximated 79,068105,260 million yen.

Certain subsidiaries are under the contracts to purchase specific raw materials until 2020. At March 31, 2010, commitments outstanding for this contract approximated 113,210 million yen.

 

Liabilities for environmental remediation costs are recorded when it is probable that obligations have been incurred and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. In January 2003, the Company announced that disposed electric equipment that contained polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB equipment) might be buried in the ground of its four manufacturing facilities and one former manufacturing facility. The applicable laws require that PCB equipment be appropriately maintained and disposed of by July 2016. The Company has accrued estimated total cost of 12,1479,513 million yen for necessary actions such as investigating whether the PCB equipment is buried at the facilities, including excavations, maintaining and disposing the PCB equipment that is already discovered, and soil remediation, since it represents management’s best estimate or minimum of the cost, but the payments are not considered to be fixed and reliably determinable.

 

ThereThe Company and certain subsidiaries are under the term of leasehold interest contracts for lands of domestic factories and have obligations for restitution on their leaving. The asset retirement obligations cannot be reasonably estimated because the durations of use of the leased assets are not specified and there are no plans to undertake relocation in the future. Therefore the Company did not recognize asset retirement obligations.

The Company and certain of its subsidiaries are subject to a number of legal proceedings including civil litigations related to tax, products or intellectual properties, or governmental investigations. Since November 2007, the Company and MT Picture Display Co., Ltd. (MTPD), a subsidiary of the Company, are subject to investigations by government authorities, including the Japan Fair Trade Commission, the U.S. Department of Justice and the European Commission, in respect of alleged antitrust violations relating to cathode ray tubes (CRTs). Subsequent to these actions by the authorities, a number of class action lawsuits have been filed in the U.S. and Canada against the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. In October 2009, the Japan Fair Trade Commission issued a cease and desist order against MTPD and assessed a fine against its three subsidiaries in South East Asia, but each named company filed for a hearing to challenge the orders which is currently subject to proceedings. Since February 2009, the Company is subject to investigations by government authorities, including the U.S. Department of Justice and the European Commission, in respect of alleged antitrust violations relating to compressors for refrigerator use. Subsequent to these actions by the authorities, a number of class action lawsuits have been filed in the U.S. and Canada against the Company and certain of its subsidiaries. The Company has been cooperating with the various governmental investigations. Depending upon the outcome of these different proceedings, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries may be subject to an uncertain amount of fines, and accordingly the Company has accrued for certain probable and reasonable estimated amounts for the fines. Other than those above, there are a number of legal actions against the Company and certain subsidiaries. Management is of the opinion that damages, if any, resulting from these actions will not have a material effect on the Company’s consolidated financial statements.


- 151 -

 

(19)(20)Segment Information

 

In accordance with SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures about Segmentsthe provisions of an Enterprise and Related Information,”ASC 280, the segments reported below are the components of the Company for which separate financial information is available that is evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker of the Company in deciding how to allocate resources and in assessing performance.

 

Business segments correspond to categories of activity classified primarily by markets, products and brand names. “Digital AVC Networks” includes video and audio equipment, and information and communications equipment. “Home Appliances” includes household equipment. “PEW and PanaHome” includes electrical supplies, electric products, building materials and equipment, and housing business. “Components and Devices” includes semiconductors, electronic components, semiconductors,batteries and electric motorsmotors. “SANYO” includes solar cells, lithium-ion batteries, optical pickups, and batteries.others. “Other” includes electronic-parts-mounting machines, industrial robots and industrial equipment.

 

The Company has changed the internal business transactions between Global Procurement Service Company and other segments since April 1, 2008. Accordingly, segment information for Other“Other” and Corporate“Corporate and eliminationseliminations” of fiscal 2008 hashave been reclassified to conform to the presentation for fiscal 2010 and 2009.

From April 1, 2008, the name of “AVC Networks” was changed to “Digital AVC Networks.” From October 1, 2008, the name of Matsushita Electric Works, Ltd. (MEW) was changed to Panasonic Electric Works Co., Ltd. (PEW).


- 152 -

 

Information by segment for the three years ended March 31, 20092010 is shown in the tables below:


- 140 -

 

By Business Segment:

 

  Yen (millions)

   Yen (millions)

 
  2009

 2008

 2007

   2010

 2009

 2008

 

Sales:

      

Digital AVC Networks:

      

Customers

  3,701,996   4,267,217   4,005,005    3,360,278   3,701,996   4,267,217  

Intersegment

  46,961   52,377   59,106    49,223   46,961   52,377  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total

  3,748,957   4,319,594   4,064,111    3,409,501   3,748,957   4,319,594  

Home Appliances:

      

Customers

  1,009,958   1,126,037   1,063,033    951,503   1,009,958   1,126,037  

Intersegment

  212,992   190,365   184,103    190,739   212,992   190,365  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total

  1,222,950   1,316,402   1,247,136    1,142,242   1,222,950   1,316,402  

PEW and PanaHome:

      

Customers

  1,717,168   1,854,023   1,809,503    1,573,393   1,717,168   1,854,023  

Intersegment

  49,094   56,269   49,210    58,720   49,094   56,269  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total

  1,766,262   1,910,292   1,858,713    1,632,113   1,766,262   1,910,292  

Components and Devices:

      

Customers

  779,761   989,414   987,933    697,346   779,761   989,414  

Intersegment

  347,509   409,270   389,824    307,988   347,509   409,270  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total

  1,127,270   1,398,684   1,377,757    1,005,334   1,127,270   1,398,684  

SANYO:

   

Customers

  399,888   —     —    

Intersegment

  4,953   —     —    
  

 

 

Total

  404,841   —     —    

Other:

      

Customers

  556,624   650,941   601,950    435,572   556,624   650,941  

Intersegment

  515,114   433,313   395,853    576,582   515,114   433,313  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total

  1,071,738   1,084,254   997,803    1,012,154   1,071,738   1,084,254  

JVC:

      

Customers

  —     181,296   640,746    —     —     181,296  

Intersegment

  —     1,846   5,833    —     —     1,846  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total

  —     183,142   646,579    —     —     183,142  

Eliminations

  (1,171,670 (1,143,440 (1,083,929  (1,188,205 (1,171,670 (1,143,440
  

 

 

  

 

 

Consolidated total

  7,765,507   9,068,928   9,108,170    7,417,980   7,765,507   9,068,928  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Segment profit (loss):

      

Digital AVC Networks

  3,176   252,239   220,080    87,289   3,176   252,239  

Home Appliances

  48,980   86,412   83,084    66,525   48,980   86,412  

PEW and PanaHome

  40,081   96,405   78,889    34,742   40,081   96,405  

Components and Devices

  7,107   104,989   99,884    36,094   7,107   104,989  

SANYO

  (730 —     —    

Other

  23,927   64,205   60,500    19,727   23,927   64,205  

JVC

  —     (9,672 (5,659  —     —     (9,672

Corporate and eliminations

  (50,398 (75,097 (77,237  (53,194 (50,398 (75,097
  

 

 

  

 

 

Total segment profit

  72,873   519,481   459,541    190,453   72,873   519,481  
  

 

 

  

 

 

Interest income

  23,477   34,371   30,553    12,348   23,477   34,371  

Dividends received

  11,486   10,317   7,597    6,746   11,486   10,317  

Other income

  52,709   70,460   114,545    47,896   52,709   70,460  

Interest expense

  (19,386 (20,357 (20,906  (25,718 (19,386 (20,357

Goodwill impairment

  —     —     (30,496

Other deductions

  (523,793 (179,279 (121,690  (261,040 (523,793 (179,279
  

 

 

  

 

 

Consolidated income (loss) before income taxes

  (382,634 434,993   439,144    (29,315 (382,634 434,993  
  

 

 

  

 

 


- 141153 -

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

  2008

Identifiable assets:

                  

Digital AVC Networks

  2,016,112  2,592,856  2,341,967  2,127,042  2,016,112  2,592,856

Home Appliances

  689,111  758,976  715,481  666,403  689,111  758,976

PEW and PanaHome

  1,258,465  1,356,588  1,354,679  1,252,243  1,258,465  1,356,588

Components and Devices

  926,897  1,013,522  989,293  831,009  926,897  1,013,522

SANYO

  2,435,829  —    —  

Other

  216,411  416,217  461,884  239,736  216,411  416,217

JVC

  —    —    419,980  —    —    —  

Corporate and eliminations

  1,296,320  1,305,455  1,613,674  805,795  1,296,320  1,305,455
  
  
  
  
  
  

Consolidated total

  6,403,316  7,443,614  7,896,958  8,358,057  6,403,316  7,443,614
  
  
  
  
  
  

Depreciation (including intangibles other than goodwill):

                  

Digital AVC Networks

  142,026  91,607  79,803  85,364  142,026  91,607

Home Appliances

  34,891  37,457  31,918  28,392  34,891  37,457

PEW and PanaHome

  51,906  44,124  48,487  49,180  51,906  44,124

Components and Devices

  97,177  89,799  85,300  74,527  97,177  89,799

SANYO

  28,877  —    —  

Other

  14,176  14,835  15,561  11,004  14,176  14,835

JVC

  —    6,008  17,844  —    —    6,008

Corporate and eliminations

  24,562  36,615  38,601  20,670  24,562  36,615
  
  
  
  
  
  

Consolidated total

  364,738  320,445  317,514  298,014  364,738  320,445
  
  
  
  
  
  

Capital investment (including intangibles other than goodwill):

                  

Digital AVC Networks

  250,891  228,358  168,448  258,999  250,891  228,358

Home Appliances

  56,206  48,925  49,040  36,324  56,206  48,925

PEW and PanaHome

  45,059  51,676  47,558  33,918  45,059  51,676

Components and Devices

  141,974  139,003  138,930  87,400  141,974  139,003

SANYO

  33,487  —    —  

Other

  12,262  13,331  17,325  7,988  12,262  13,331

JVC

  —    3,542  15,478  —    —    3,542

Corporate and eliminations

  27,652  18,625  39,479  6,203  27,652  18,625
  
  
  
  
  
  

Consolidated total

  534,044  503,460  476,258  464,319  534,044  503,460
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

Corporate expenses include certain corporate R&D expenditures and general corporate expenses.

 

Corporate assets consist of cash and cash equivalents, time deposits, marketable securities in short-term investments, investments and advances and other assets related to unallocated expenses.

 

Intangibles mainly represent patents and software.


- 142154 -

 

By Geographical Area:

 

Sales attributed to countries based upon the customer’s location and property, plant and equipment are as follows:

 

  Yen (millions)

  Yen (millions)

  2009

  2008

  2007

  2010

  2009

  2008

Sales:

                  

Japan

  4,082,233  4,544,772  4,616,520  3,994,379  4,082,233  4,544,772

North and South America

  996,647  1,250,677  1,381,104  917,898  996,647  1,250,677

Europe

  962,981  1,212,971  1,217,931  771,251  962,981  1,212,971

Asia and Others

  1,723,646  2,060,508  1,892,615  1,734,452  1,723,646  2,060,508
  
  
  
  
  
  

Consolidated total

  7,765,507  9,068,928  9,108,170  7,417,980  7,765,507  9,068,928
  
  
  
  
  
  

United States included in North and South America

  857,896  1,081,183  1,213,867  781,264  857,896  1,081,183

China included in Asia and Others

  855,352  941,685  824,465  903,531  855,352  941,685

Property, plant and equipment:

                  

Japan

  1,230,868  1,353,421  1,171,223  1,571,914  1,230,868  1,353,421

North and South America

  31,694  34,260  53,317  42,215  31,694  34,260

Europe

  48,398  69,844  71,594  48,444  48,398  69,844

Asia and Others

  263,870  299,848  346,159  293,448  263,870  299,848
  
  
  
  
  
  

Consolidated total

  1,574,830  1,757,373  1,642,293  1,956,021  1,574,830  1,757,373
  
  
  
  
  
  

 

There are no individually material countries which should be separately disclosed in North and South America, Europe, and Asia and Others, except for the United States of America and China on sales. Transfers between business segments or geographic segments are made at arms-length prices. There are no sales to a single external major customer for the three years ended March 31, 2009.2010.


- 155 -

 

The following information shows sales, geographical profit and identifiable assets which are attributed to geographic areas based on the country location of the Company or its subsidiaries for the three years ended March 31, 2009.2010. In addition to the disclosure requirements under SFAS No. 131,ASC 280, the Company discloses this information as supplemental information in light of the disclosure requirements of the Japanese Financial Instruments and Exchange Law, which a Japanese public company is subject to:

   Yen (millions)

 
   2010

  2009

  2008

 

Sales:

          

Japan:

          

Customers

  4,324,430   4,435,587   4,908,850  

Intersegment

  1,542,034   1,617,969   1,880,654  
   

 

 

Total

  5,866,464   6,053,556   6,789,504  

North and South America:

          

Customers

  867,288   946,098   1,196,419  

Intersegment

  20,229   18,639   16,646  
   

 

 

Total

  887,517   964,737   1,213,065  

Europe:

          

Customers

  742,226   934,525   1,170,932  

Intersegment

  15,960   34,977   47,300  
   

 

 

Total

  758,186   969,502   1,218,232  

Asia and Others:

          

Customers

  1,484,036   1,449,297   1,792,727  

Intersegment

  1,035,297   1,008,345   1,167,322  
   

 

 

Total

  2,519,333   2,457,642   2,960,049  

Eliminations

  (2,613,520 (2,679,930 (3,111,922
   

 

 

Consolidated total

  7,417,980   7,765,507   9,068,928  
   

 

 

Geographical profit (loss):

          

Japan

  146,866   72,673   422,071  

North and South America

  9,116   (2,783 22,136  

Europe

  (23,225 (30,451 20,438  

Asia and Others

  113,491   82,611   125,056  

Corporate and eliminations

  (55,795 (49,177 (70,220
   

 

 

Consolidated total

  190,453   72,873   519,481  
   

 

 

Identifiable assets:

          

Japan

  5,950,513   3,957,637   4,410,600  

North and South America

  403,831   285,039   320,487  

Europe

  275,790   272,513   430,149  

Asia and Others

  1,372,983   935,440   1,208,534  

Corporate and eliminations

  354,940   952,687   1,073,844  
   

 

 

Consolidated total

  8,358,057   6,403,316   7,443,614  
   

 

 


- 143 -

   Yen (millions)

 
   2009

  2008

  2007

 

Sales:

          

Japan:

          

Customers

  4,435,587   4,908,850   4,941,413  

Intersegment

  1,617,969   1,880,654   2,029,589  
   

 

 

Total

  6,053,556   6,789,504   6,971,002  

North and South America:

          

Customers

  946,098   1,196,419   1,335,631  

Intersegment

  18,639   16,646   21,654  
   

 

 

Total

  964,737   1,213,065   1,357,285  

Europe:

          

Customers

  934,525   1,170,932   1,162,795  

Intersegment

  34,977   47,300   47,201  
   

 

 

Total

  969,502   1,218,232   1,209,996  

Asia and Others:

          

Customers

  1,449,297   1,792,727   1,668,331  

Intersegment

  1,008,345   1,167,322   1,206,340  
   

 

 

Total

  2,457,642   2,960,049   2,874,671  

Eliminations

  (2,679,930 (3,111,922 (3,304,784
   

 

 

Consolidated total

  7,765,507   9,068,928   9,108,170  
   

 

 

Geographical profit (loss):

          

Japan

  72,673   422,071   409,395  

North and South America

  (2,783 22,136   22,500  

Europe

  (30,451 20,438   13,903  

Asia and Others

  82,611   125,056   89,460  

Corporate and eliminations

  (49,177 (70,220 (75,717
   

 

 

Consolidated total

  72,873   519,481   459,541  
   

 

 

Identifiable assets:

          

Japan

  3,957,637   4,410,600   4,416,586  

North and South America

  285,039   320,487   455,216  

Europe

  272,513   430,149   452,924  

Asia and Others

  935,440   1,208,534   1,265,170  

Corporate and eliminations

  952,687   1,073,844   1,307,062  
   

 

 

Consolidated total

  6,403,316   7,443,614   7,896,958  
   

 

 


- 144 -

By Business Field:

In a new phase of further growth, the Company has been accelerating initiatives to achieve global excellence. From April 1, 2008, in order to further clarify its business fields for investors, the Company discloses three business fields. This represents a voluntary and supplementary disclosure by the Company to further enhance readers’ understanding of the Company’s strategy, financial condition and results of operations. This disclosure is not intended to substitute for the segment disclosures as required by SFAS No. 131. The business fields are comprised of the Company’s five segments as follows:

Business fields


Business segments


Digital AVC Networks Solution

Digital AVC Networks

Solutions for the Environment and Comfortable Living

Home Appliances, PEW and PanaHome

Devices and Industry Solution

Components and Devices, Other

Yen (millions)

2009

Sales:

Digital AVC Networks Solution:

Digital AVC Networks

3,748,957


Total

3,748,957

Solutions for the Environment and Comfortable Living:

Home Appliances

1,222,950

PEW and PanaHome

1,766,262


Total

2,989,212

Devices and Industry Solution:

Components and Devices

1,127,270

Other

1,071,738


Total

2,199,008

Eliminations

(1,171,670


Consolidated total

7,765,507


Profit by business field:

Digital AVC Networks Solution:

Digital AVC Networks

3,176


Total

3,176

Solutions for the Environment and Comfortable Living:

Home Appliances

48,980

PEW and PanaHome

40,081


Total

89,061

Devices and Industry Solution:

Components and Devices

7,107

Other

23,927


Total

31,034

Corporate and eliminations

(50,398


Consolidated total

72,873



- 145156 -

 

Schedule II

 

PANASONIC CORPORATION

AND SUBSIDIARIES

 

Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Reserves

(In millions of yen)

 

Years ended March 31, 2010, 2009 2008 and 20072008

 

  Balance  at
beginning
of period

  Add

  Deduct

  Add
(deduct)

 
  Charged
to
income

  Change in
consolidated
subsidiaries


  Bad  debts
written
off


  Reversal

  Cumulative
translation
adjustments

  Balance
at end  of
period


  Balance at
beginning of
period


  Add

  Deduct

  Add
(deduct)

 Balance
at end of
period


   
  Charged
to
income


  Change in
consolidated
subsidiaries


  Bad debts
written
off


  Reversal

  Cumulative
translation
adjustments


     

Allowance for

doubtful

receivables:

Allowance for

doubtful

receivables:

  

  

  

                   

2010

  21,131  10,862  —    4,234  3,623  22   24,158

2009

  20,868  10,538    3,246  5,436  (1,593 21,131  20,868  10,538  —    3,246  5,436  (1,593 21,131

2008

  29,061  6,008  4,378  5,109  3,542  (1,172 20,868  29,061  6,008  4,378  5,109  3,542  (1,172 20,868

2007

  37,400  3,203    7,002  5,012  472   29,061


- 146157 -

 

Item 19.Exhibits

 

Documents filed as exhibits to this annual report are as follows:

 

1.1  Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant (English translation)
1.2  Share Handling Regulations of the Registrant (English translation)
1.3  Regulations of the Board of Directors of the Registrant (English translation) [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-06784) filed on September 11, 2006]
1.4  Regulations of the Board of Corporate Auditors of the Registrant (English translation) [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-06784) filed on June 30, 2009]
2.1  Form of Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York (now JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.) as Depositary and all owners and holders from time to time of American Depositary Receipts [incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-12694) filed on October 4, 2000] and form of Amendment No. 1 to Deposit Agreement among such parties, including the form of American Depositary Receipt [incorporated by reference to Post-effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-133099) filed on September 29, 2008]
4.1  Liability Limitation Agreement (English translation)
   [Matsushita and Ikuo Uno entered into a Liability Limitation Agreement, dated June 29, 2005, in the form of this Exhibit.] [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 1-06784) filed on September 12, 2005]
   [Matsushita and Masayuki Oku entered into a Liability Limitation Agreement, dated June 26, 2008, in the form of this Exhibit.] [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 1-06784) filed on June 30, 2008]
   [Matsushita and each of Yasuo Yoshino, Ikuo Hata and Hiroyuki Takahashi, entered into a Liability Limitation Agreement, each dated June 28, 2006, in the form of this Exhibit.] [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 1-06784) filed on September 11, 2006]
8.1  Subsidiaries of the Registrant [List of significant subsidiaries (see Section C of Item 4)]
11.1  Code of Ethics for Directors and Executive Officers (English translation) [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-06784) filed on June 30, 2009]
12.1  Certification of the principal executive officer of the Company required by Rule 13a-14(a)
12.2  Certification of the principal financial officer of the Company required by Rule 13a-14(a)
13.1  Certification required by Rule 13a-14(a) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code
15.1  Continuation of Policy toward Large-scale Purchases of Panasonic Shares
101INS XBRL Instance Document
101SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

The Company has not included as exhibits certain instruments with respect to its long-term debt, the amount of debt authorized under each of which does not exceed 10% of its total assets, and it agrees to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.


- 147158 -

 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

 

 

          

PANASONIC CORPORATION

          (Registrant)

Date: June 30, 20092010

    By  /s/    Yukitoshi OndaMasahito Yamamura
          Yukitoshi OndaMasahito Yamamura
          Attorney-in-Fact
          General Manager of Investor Relations
          Panasonic Corporation


Index to Exhibits

 

Documents filed as exhibits to this annual report are as follows:

 

1.1  Articles of Incorporation of the Registrant (English translation)
1.2  Share Handling Regulations of the Registrant (English translation)
1.3  Regulations of the Board of Directors of the Registrant (English translation) [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-06784) filed on September 11, 2006]
1.4  Regulations of the Board of Corporate Auditors of the Registrant (English translation) [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-06784) filed on June 30, 2009]
2.1  Form of Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement among the Registrant, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York (now JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.) as Depositary and all owners and holders from time to time of American Depositary Receipts [incorporated by reference to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 (File No. 333-12694) filed on October 4, 2000] and form of Amendment No.1 to Deposit Agreement among such parties, including the form of American Depositary Receipt [incorporated by reference to Post-effective Amendment No.1 to the Registration Statement on FormFrom F-6 (File No. 333-133099) filed on September 29, 2008]
4.1  

Liability Limitation Agreement (English translation)

[Matsushita and Ikuo Uno entered into a Liability Limitation Agreement, dated June 29, 2005, in the form of this Exhibit.] [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 1-06784) filed on September 12, 2005]

[Matsushita and Masayuki Oku entered into a Liability Limitation Agreement, dated June 26, 2008, in the form of this Exhibit.] [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 1-06784) filed on June 30, 2008]

[Matsushita and each of Yasuo Yoshino, Ikuo Hata and Hiroyuki Takahashi, entered into a Liability Limitation Agreement, each dated June 28, 2006, in the form of this Exhibit.] [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 1-06784) filed on September 11, 2006]

8.1  Subsidiaries of the Registrant [List of significant subsidiaries (see Section C of Item 4)]
11.1  Code of Ethics for Directors and Executive Officers (English translation) [incorporated by reference to the Annual Report on Form 20-F (File No. 001-06784) filed on June 30, 2009]
12.1  Certification of the principal executive officer of the Company required by Rule 13a-14(a)
12.2  Certification of the principal financial officer of the Company required by Rule 13a-14(a)
13.1  Certification required by Rule 13a-14(a) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code
15.1  Continuation of Policy toward Large-scale Purchases of Panasonic Shares
101INS XBRL Instance Document
101SCH XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema
101CAL XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase
101DEF XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase
101LAB XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase
101PRE XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase

The Company has not included as exhibits certain instruments with respect to its long-term debt, the amount of debt authorized under each of which does not exceed 10% of its total assets, and it agrees to furnish a copy of any such instrument to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.