Form 10-Q
Table of Contents

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


Form 10-Q

 


 

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

For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2007

or

 

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

For the Transition Period from              to             

Commission File No. 001-32260

 


Westlake Chemical Corporation

(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)

 


 

Delaware   76-0346924

(State or other jurisdiction of

incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer

Identification Number)

2801 Post Oak Boulevard, Suite 600

Houston, Texas 77056

(Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

(713) 960-9111

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 


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

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

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

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act)    Yes  ¨    No  x

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s sole class of common stock, as of July 31, 2007, was 65,467,640.

 



Table of Contents

INDEX

 

Item        Page
PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION   
  1) Financial Statements    3
  2) Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    21
  3) Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk    28
  4) Controls and Procedures    29
PART II. OTHER INFORMATION   
  1) Legal Proceedings    29
  1A) Risk Factors    29
  4) Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders    29
  5) Other Information    29
  6) Exhibits    29

 

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Table of Contents

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited)

 

    

June 30,

2007

   

December 31,

2006

 
     (in thousands of dollars, except
par values and share amounts)
 

ASSETS

    

Current assets

    

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 42,615     $ 52,646  

Accounts receivable, net

     399,832       308,903  

Inventories, net

     464,519       456,276  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     14,646       16,086  

Deferred income taxes

     15,723       15,876  
                

Total current assets

     937,335       849,787  

Property, plant and equipment, net

     1,086,873       1,076,903  

Equity investment

     28,210       26,382  

Other assets, net

     119,962       129,026  
                

Total assets

   $ 2,172,380     $ 2,082,098  
                

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY

    

Current liabilities

    

Accounts payable

   $ 260,271     $ 238,914  

Accrued liabilities

     78,752       82,998  
                

Total current liabilities

     339,023       321,912  

Long-term debt

     260,196       260,156  

Deferred income taxes

     296,201       281,828  

Other liabilities

     47,367       44,661  
                

Total liabilities

     942,787       908,557  

Commitments and Contingencies (Notes 12 and 15)

    

Stockholders’ equity

    

Preferred stock, $0.01 par value, 50,000,000 shares authorized; no shares issued and outstanding

     —         —    

Common stock, $0.01 par value, 150,000,000 shares authorized; 65,466,609 and 65,268,585 shares issued and outstanding in 2007 and 2006, respectively

     655       653  

Additional paid-in capital

     429,361       427,893  

Retained earnings

     807,254       754,921  

Accumulated other comprehensive income

    

Benefits liability, net of tax

     (12,186 )     (12,186 )

Cumulative translation adjustment

     4,509       2,260  
                

Total stockholders’ equity

     1,229,593       1,173,541  
                

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 2,172,380     $ 2,082,098  
                

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

 

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Table of Contents

WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited)

 

    

Three Months Ended

June 30,

   

Six Months Ended

June 30,

 
     2007     2006     2007     2006  
     (in thousands of dollars, except per share data)  

Net sales

   $ 782,664     $ 669,267     $ 1,501,466     $ 1,288,046  

Cost of sales

     698,233       544,055       1,359,146       1,031,776  
                                

Gross profit

     84,431       125,212       142,320       256,270  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     22,152       18,359       47,375       38,538  
                                

Income from operations

     62,279       106,853       94,945       217,732  

Interest expense

     (4,495 )     (3,898 )     (8,088 )     (9,924 )

Debt retirement cost

     —         —         —         (25,853 )

Other (expense) income, net

     (292 )     3,055       699       5,389  
                                

Income before income taxes

     57,492       106,010       87,556       187,344  

Provision for income taxes

     19,602       38,841       29,994       68,838  
                                

Net income

   $ 37,890     $ 67,169     $ 57,562     $ 118,506  
                                

Basic and diluted earnings per share

   $ 0.58     $ 1.03     $ 0.88     $ 1.82  
                                

Weighted average shares outstanding:

        

Basic

     65,224,697       65,104,100       65,221,365       65,098,181  

Diluted

     65,324,714       65,235,847       65,324,616       65,233,323  

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

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited)

 

     Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2007     2006  
     (in thousands of dollars)  

Cash flows from operating activities

    

Net income

   $ 57,562     $ 118,506  

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

    

Depreciation and amortization

     50,716       40,896  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     201       634  

Amortization of debt issue costs

     378       472  

Loss (gain) from disposition of fixed assets

     25       (13 )

Deferred tax expense

     14,417       10,736  

Equity in income of joint venture

     (1,520 )     (1,093 )

Write-off of debt issuance costs

     —         3,623  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities

    

Accounts receivable

     (92,807 )     (20,864 )

Inventories

     (8,243 )     (3,223 )

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     1,440       (2,072 )

Accounts payable

     22,761       712  

Accrued liabilities

     (4,246 )     9,825  

Other, net

     (6,506 )     (11,239 )
                

Net cash provided by operating activities

     34,178       146,900  
                

Cash flows from investing activities

    

Additions to property, plant and equipment

     (50,483 )     (62,887 )

Additions to equity investments

     (308 )     (4,574 )

Settlement of acquisition purchase price

     8,043       —    

Proceeds from disposition of assets

     33       7  

Settlements of derivative instruments

     3,673       (27,445 )
                

Net cash used for investing activities

     (39,042 )     (94,899 )
                

Cash flows from financing activities

    

Proceeds from the exercise of stock options

     62       396  

Dividends paid

     (5,229 )     (3,583 )

Proceeds from borrowings

     191,684       249,185  

Repayment of borrowings

     (191,684 )     (256,000 )

Capitalized debt costs

     —         (4,279 )
                

Net cash used for financing activities

     (5,167 )     (14,281 )
                

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (10,031 )     37,720  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     52,646       237,895  
                

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 42,615     $ 275,615  
                

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

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

1. Basis of Financial Statements

The accompanying unaudited consolidated interim financial statements were prepared in accordance with the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for interim periods. Accordingly, certain information and footnotes required for complete financial statements under generally accepted accounting principles in the United States have not been included. These interim consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the December 31, 2006 financial statements and notes thereto of Westlake Chemical Corporation (the “Company”) included in the annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006, filed with the SEC on February 26, 2007. These financial statements have been prepared in conformity with the accounting principles and practices as disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements of the Company for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006.

In the opinion of the Company’s management, the accompanying unaudited consolidated interim financial statements reflect all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) that are necessary for a fair presentation of the Company’s financial position as of June 30, 2007, its results of operations for the three months and six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006 and the changes in its cash position for the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006.

Results of operations and changes in cash position for the interim periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that will be realized for the year ending December 31, 2007 or any other interim period. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard No. 159 (“SFAS 159”), “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” SFAS 159 allows entities the option to measure eligible financial instruments at fair value as of specified dates. Such election, which may be applied on an instrument by instrument basis, is typically irrevocable once elected. SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and the Company has not yet determined the impact this interpretation might have on its financial position.

2. Stock-Based Compensation

The Board of Directors of the Company has adopted, and the stockholders have approved, the Westlake Chemical Corporation 2004 Omnibus Incentive Plan (the “2004 Plan”). Under the 2004 Plan, all employees of the Company, as well as certain individuals who have agreed to become the Company’s employees, are eligible for awards. Shares of common stock may be issued as authorized in the 2004 Plan. At the discretion of the administrator of the 2004 Plan, employees and non-employee directors may be granted awards in the form of stock options, stock appreciation rights, stock awards or cash awards (any of which may be a performance award). The Company utilizes the fair value method to account for these awards, and the total compensation expense related to the 2004 Plan was $863 and $515 for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively and $1,387 and $944 for the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

Option activity and changes during the six months ended June 30, 2007 were as follows:

 

     Options     Weighted
Average
Exercise
Price
   Weighted
Average
Remaining
Term
(Years)
   Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

Outstanding at December 31, 2006

   356,284     $ 20.57      

Granted

   352,700       31.61      

Exercised

   (3,471 )     17.78      

Cancelled

   (13,687 )     24.84      
              

Outstanding at June 30, 2007

   691,826       26.13    8.7    $ 2,988
                        

Exercisable at June 30, 2007

   111,408       18.48    7.4      1,166
                        

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

For options outstanding at June 30, 2007, the options had the following range of exercise prices:

 

Range of Prices

   Options Outstanding    Weighted Average
Remaining Contractual
Life (Years)

$14.50

   214,106    7.1

$25.42 - $36.10

   477,720    9.3

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table represents the total pretax intrinsic value (the difference between the Company’s closing stock price on the last trading day of the second quarter of 2007 and the exercise price, multiplied by the number of in-the-money options) that would have been received by the option holders had all option holders exercised their options on June 30, 2007. This amount changes based on the fair market value of the Company’s common stock. The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006 was $0 and $2, and the total intrinsic value of options exercised for the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006 was $57 and $513, respectively.

As of June 30, 2007, $4,930 of total unrecognized compensation cost related to stock options is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 3.5 years.

The Company used the Black-Scholes option pricing model to value its options. The table below presents the weighted average value and assumptions used in determining each option’s fair value for each option granted during the second quarter of 2006 and first six months of 2007 and 2006. No options were granted during the second quarter of 2007. Volatility was calculated using historical trends of the Company’s common stock price.

 

     Stock Option Grants  
     Three Months Ended
June 30,
    Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2007    2006     2007     2006  

Weighted average fair value of grants

   $ —      $ 14.04     $ 14.23     $ 15.21  

Risk-free interest rate

     —        5.2 %     4.5 %     4.8 %

Expected life in years

     —        6-7       6-10       6-7  

Expected volatility

     —        34.6 %     33.2 %     33.9 %

Expected dividend yield

     —        0.3 %     0.5 %     0.3 %

Non-vested restricted stock awards as of June 30, 2007 and changes during the six months ended June 30, 2007 were as follows:

 

     Number of
Shares
    Weighted
Average
Grant Date
Fair Value

Non-vested at December 31, 2006

   53,928     $ 30.85

Granted

   198,811       31.61

Vested

   (6,569 )     36.10

Forfeited

   (4,258 )     31.23
        

Non-vested at June 30, 2007

   241,912       31.33
        

As of June 30, 2007, there was $6,033 of unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to non-vested restricted stock awards. This cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 4.6 years.

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

3. Accounts Receivable

Accounts receivable consist of the following:

 

     June 30,
2006
    December 31,
2005
 

Accounts receivable — trade

   $ 390,403     $ 294,564  

Accounts receivable — affiliates

     1,402       1,252  

Allowance for doubtful accounts

     (3,607 )     (3,287 )
                
     388,198       292,529  

Accounts receivable — other

     11,634       16,374  
                

Accounts receivable — net

   $ 399,832     $ 308,903  
                

4. Inventories

Inventories consist of the following:

 

     June 30,
2007
    December 31,
2006
 

Finished product

   $ 274,286     $ 290,048  

Feedstock, additives and chemicals

     158,138       137,669  

Materials and supplies

     40,305       36,499  
                
     472,729       464,216  

Allowance for inventory obsolescence

     (8,210 )     (7,940 )
                

Inventories, net

   $ 464,519     $ 456,276  
                

5. Property, Plant and Equipment

Depreciation expense on property, plant and equipment of $21,500 and $18,025 is included in cost of sales in the consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, and $40,636 and $36,099 is included for the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

6. Other Assets

Amortization expense on other assets of $5,050 and $2,582 is included in the consolidated statements of operations for the three months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, and $10,458 and $5,269 is included for the six months ended June 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

7. Acquisition

On November 30, 2006, the Company acquired Eastman Chemical Company’s polyethylene and Epolene® polymers business, related assets and a 200 mile, 10 inch pipeline from Mont Belvieu, Texas to Longview, Texas for a purchase price of $235,028, subject to further adjustment based on final values of working capital at the purchase date. During the second quarter of 2007, the Company received $8,043 to settle the working capital adjustment. The adjustment reduces the Company’s goodwill to $26,694 and results in a final purchase price of $226,985.

8. Derivative Commodity Instruments

The Company uses derivative instruments, in conjunction with certain physical commodity positions, to reduce price volatility risk on commodities. The Company had a net gain of $4,808 in connection with trading activity for the six months ended June 30, 2007 compared to a net gain of $12,285 for the six months ended June 30, 2006. Of the 2007 net gain, $1,707 related to derivative gains and $3,101 related to sales of related physical feedstock positions. Of the 2006 net gain, $10,057 related to derivative gains and $2,228 related to sales of related physical feedstock positions. Net trading gains in the second quarter of 2007 totaled $4,080 ($962 related to commodity derivative gains and $3,118 related to sales of related physical positions) compared to a net gain of $7,081 ($5,243 related to commodity derivative gains and $1,838 related to sales of related physical positions) for the second quarter of 2006. Gains and losses in connection with trading activity are included in cost of sales. Risk management asset balances of $1,548 and $5,721 were included in “Accounts receivable, net” and risk

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

management liability balances of $-0- and $1,211 were included in current liabilities in the Company’s consolidated balance sheets as of June 30, 2007 and December 31, 2006, respectively.

9. Income Taxes

The Company adopted the provisions of Financial Standards Accounting Board Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (“FIN 48”), an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109 on January 1, 2007. The Company recognized no adjustments in the liability for unrecognized income tax benefits. As of January 1, 2007, the total gross unrecognized tax benefits were $9,637. Of this total, $5,072, net of federal tax benefits, would favorably impact the effective income tax rate if recognized. The Company has increased the gross unrecognized tax benefits by $150 for the six months ended June 30, 2007.

The Company recognizes penalties and interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. As of January 1, 2007, the Company had approximately $3,069 of accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions. The Company has increased the accrued interest and penalties approximately $675 during the six months ended June 30, 2007.

The Company files income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, various states and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to the examinations by tax authorities before the year 1999. The Company is currently under audit by the Internal Revenue Service for the 2005 tax year.

Management does not anticipate a significant change to the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits within the next twelve months.

The effective income tax rate was 34.3% for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The 2007 tax rate was below the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state tax credits and the domestic manufacturing deduction, partially offset by state income taxes. The effective tax rate was 36.7% for the six months ended June 30, 2006. The 2006 tax rate was above the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state income taxes.

10. Earnings per Share

There are no adjustments to “Net income” for the diluted earnings per share computations.

The following table reconciles the denominator for the basic and diluted earnings per share computations shown in the consolidated statements of operations:

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30,
   Six Months Ended
June 30,
     2007    2006    2007    2006
     (in thousands)    (in thousands)

Weighted average common shares—basic

   65,225    65,104    65,221    65,098

Plus incremental shares from:

           

Assumed conversion of options

   87    117    90    120

Restricted stock

   13    15    14    15
                   

Weighted average common shares—diluted

   65,325    65,236    65,325    65,233
                   

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

11. Pension and Post-Retirement Benefits

Components of Net Periodic Costs are as follows:

 

     Three Months Ended June 30,    Six Months Ended June 30,
     Pension     Post-Retirement    Pension     Post-Retirement
     2007     2006     2007    2006    2007     2006     2007    2006

Service cost

   $ 260     $ 267     $ 78    $ 91    $ 520     $ 533     $ 156    $ 183

Interest cost

     557       471       146      134      1,114       942       292      268

Expected return on plan assets

     (599 )     (550 )     —        —        (1,198 )     (1,100 )     —        —  

Amortization of transition obligation

     —         —         29      28      —         —         57      57

Amortization of prior service cost

     79       79       66      67      159       159       133      133

Amortization of net loss

     133       100       103      77      265       200       207      154
                                                           

Net periodic benefit cost

   $ 430     $ 367     $ 422    $ 397    $ 860     $ 734     $ 845    $ 795
                                                           

The Company contributed $2,498 to the Salaried and Wage pension plans during the three and six months ended June 30, 2006. The Company is not scheduled to contribute any funds to the pension plans during the fiscal year ending December 31, 2007.

12. Commitments and Contingencies

The Company is subject to environmental laws and regulations that can impose civil and criminal sanctions and that may require it to mitigate the effects of contamination caused by the release or disposal of hazardous substances into the environment. Under one law, an owner or operator of property may be held strictly liable for remediating contamination without regard to whether that person caused the contamination, and without regard to whether the practices that resulted in the contamination were legal at the time they occurred. Because several of the Company’s production sites have a history of industrial use, it is impossible to predict precisely what effect these requirements will have on the Company.

Contract Litigation with Goodrich and PolyOne. In connection with the 1990 and 1997 acquisitions of the Goodrich Corporation chemical manufacturing complex in Calvert City, Kentucky, Goodrich agreed to indemnify the Company for any liabilities related to preexisting contamination at the complex. For its part, the Company agreed to indemnify Goodrich for post-closing contamination caused by the Company’s operations. The soil and groundwater at the complex, which does not include the Company’s nearby PVC facility, had been extensively contaminated by Goodrich’s operations. In 1993, Goodrich spun off the predecessor of PolyOne, and that predecessor assumed Goodrich’s indemnification obligations relating to preexisting contamination. PolyOne is now coordinating the investigation and remediation of contamination at the complex. In mid-1997 the Company began operating (pursuant to contract) a certain piece of groundwater remediation equipment at the complex owned by Goodrich.

For a number of years, PolyOne has asserted that the Company’s operations after the 1990 and 1997 acquisitions have contributed to the contamination. In May 2003, Goodrich asserted that the Company is responsible for a portion of the costs of treating the complex’s contaminated groundwater. Goodrich then began withholding payment of 45% of the monthly costs incurred by the Company to operate certain remediation equipment.

In October 2003, the Company sued Goodrich in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky for breach of contract to recover its unpaid invoices for providing these services. Goodrich filed a counterclaim against the Company and a third-party complaint against PolyOne. PolyOne in turn filed motions to dismiss, counterclaims against Goodrich, and cross-claims against the Company, in which it alleged, among other things, that Goodrich and the Company had conspired to defraud PolyOne.

In March 2005, the court dismissed PolyOne’s claims against the Company and granted the Company’s motion for summary judgment on its breach of contract claim against Goodrich. In July 2005, Goodrich agreed to pay the Company all past due amounts, including interest, in the amount of $3,132. This reimbursement is reflected in the consolidated statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2005, resulting in a $2,606 reduction of selling, general and administrative expenses and $526 of interest income. Goodrich further agreed to timely and fully pay the Company for all future services. Goodrich reserved the right to seek reconsideration of the court’s order, which, if granted, could require the Company to reimburse Goodrich for its payments to the Company under the July 2005 agreement. The case is continuing with respect to Goodrich’s counterclaim against the Company and the claims between Goodrich and PolyOne. Trial is set for October 2007.

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

The current groundwater remediation activities at the Calvert City complex do not have a specified termination date but are expected to last for the foreseeable future. Since the Company acquired in mid-1997 the relevant portion of the complex where certain groundwater remediation equipment is located, the Company has spent $24,890 through June 30, 2007 in operating this equipment, all of which has been reimbursed to the Company by Goodrich. Goodrich is continuing to reimburse the Company on a monthly basis as ongoing expenses for these services are incurred. The costs incurred to operate the groundwater remediation equipment were $1,592 in the first six months of 2007 and $1,637 in the first six months of 2006.

Administrative Proceedings. There are several administrative proceedings in Kentucky involving the Company, Goodrich and PolyOne and the same manufacturing complex in Calvert City. In 2003, the Kentucky Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (“Cabinet”) re-issued Goodrich’s Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, or RCRA, permit which requires Goodrich to remediate contamination at the Calvert City manufacturing complex. Both Goodrich and PolyOne challenged various terms of the permit in an attempt to shift Goodrich’s clean-up obligations under the permit to the Company.

In January 2004, the Cabinet notified the Company that the Company’s ownership of a closed landfill (known as former Pond 4) requires it to submit an application for its own permit under RCRA. This could require the Company to bear the cost of performing remediation work at former Pond 4 and adjacent areas at the complex. The Company challenged the Cabinet’s January 2004 order and has obtained several extensions to submit the required permit application, which is now due in September 2007. In October 2006, the Cabinet notified Goodrich and the Company that both were “operators” of former Pond 4 under RCRA, and ordered them to jointly submit an application for a RCRA permit no later than April 2007. Goodrich and the Company have both challenged the Cabinet’s October 2006 order.

All of these administrative proceedings have been consolidated. A new hearing date and obligation to submit a RCRA permit has been postponed until September 10, 2007.

Litigation Related to the Administrative Proceedings. The Company has the contractual right to reconvey title to former Pond 4 back to Goodrich, and the Company has tendered former Pond 4 back to Goodrich under this provision. In March 2005, the Company sued Goodrich in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky to require Goodrich to accept the tendered reconveyance and to indemnify the Company for costs the Company incurred in connection with former Pond 4. Goodrich subsequently filed a third-party complaint against PolyOne, seeking to hold PolyOne responsible for any of Goodrich’s former Pond 4 liabilities to the Company. Goodrich moved to dismiss the Company’s suit against it, the Company filed a motion for partial summary judgment against Goodrich, and PolyOne moved to dismiss Goodrich’s third-party complaint against it. On March 30, 2007, the court granted Goodrich’s motion to dismiss the Company’s claim that Goodrich is required to accept the tendered reconveyance. Although the Company’s motion for partial summary judgment was denied on March 30, the Company’s claim for indemnification of its costs incurred in connection with Pond 4 is still before the court.

PolyOne filed a separate lawsuit against the Company in March 2005 in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky seeking to require the Company to apply for its own RCRA permit. Purportedly brought under the “citizen suit” provisions of RCRA, PolyOne’s suit involves the same issues raised in the Goodrich and PolyOne challenges to the RCRA permit discussed above. The Company filed a motion to dismiss PolyOne’s suit. On March 30, 2007, the court granted the Company’s motion to dismiss. PolyOne has not appealed the dismissal of its suit.

Monetary Relief. Neither the court nor the Cabinet has established any allocation of the costs of remediation among the various parties that are involved in the judicial and administrative proceedings discussed above. The Company is not in a position at this time to state what effect, if any, the resolution of these proceedings could have on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows. Any monetary liabilities that the Company might incur with respect to the remediation of contamination at the complex would likely be spread out over an extended period. As a result, the Company believes it is unlikely that any remediation costs allocable to it will be material in terms of expenditures made in any individual reporting period.

Environmental Investigations. In 2002, the EPA’s National Enforcement Investigations Center, or NEIC, investigated the Company’s manufacturing complex in Calvert City. In early 2004, the NEIC investigated the Company’s nearby PVC plant. The EPA subsequently submitted information requests to the Company under the Clean Air Act and RCRA. The Company and the EPA met in June 2004 to attempt to voluntarily resolve the notices of violation that were issued to the Company for the 2002 investigation and to voluntarily resolve any issues raised at the PVC plant in the 2004 investigation.

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Since then, parties have continued to engage in settlement discussions. The EPA has indicated that it will impose monetary penalties and require plant modifications that will involve capital expenditures. The Company expects that, based on the EPA’s past practices, the amount of any monetary penalties would be reduced by a portion of the expenditures that the Company would agree to make for certain “supplemental environmental projects.” The Company has recorded an accrual for a probable loss related to monetary penalties and other items to be expensed; however, based on correspondence with the EPA, the Company reduced its loss accrual by $1,500 during the fourth quarter of 2006. Although the ultimate amount of liability is not ascertainable, the Company believes that any amounts exceeding the recorded accruals should not materially affect the Company’s financial condition. It is possible, however, that the ultimate resolution of this matter could result in a material adverse effect on the Company’s results of operations or cash flows for a particular reporting period.

In addition to the matters described above, the Company is involved in various routine legal proceedings incidental to the conduct of its business. The Company does not believe that any of these routine legal proceedings will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

13. Segment Information

The Company operates in two principal business segments: Olefins and Vinyls. These segments are strategic business units that offer a variety of different products. The Company manages each segment separately as each business requires different technology and marketing strategies.

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30,
   Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2007     2006    2007     2006  

Net sales to external customers

         

Olefins

         

Polyethylene

   $ 382,473     $ 206,420    $ 726,004     $ 395,876  

Ethylene, styrene and other

     132,367       142,232      273,062       292,493  
                               

Total olefins

     514,840       348,652      999,066       688,369  

Vinyls

         

Fabricated finished goods

     131,024       181,879      258,751       322,288  

VCM, PVC and other

     136,800       138,736      243,649       277,389  
                               

Total vinyls

     267,824       320,615      502,400       599,677  
                               
   $ 782,664     $ 669,267    $ 1,501,466     $ 1,288,046  
                               

Intersegment sales

         

Olefins

   $ 19,260     $ 37,986    $ 30,361     $ 78,050  

Vinyls

     279       307      519       631  
                               
   $ 19,539     $ 38,293    $ 30,880     $ 78,681  
                               

Income (loss) from operations

         

Olefins

   $ 42,716     $ 62,029    $ 69,935     $ 121,594  

Vinyls

     20,817       44,251      28,609       98,662  

Corporate and other

     (1,254 )     573      (3,599 )     (2,524 )
                               
   $ 62,279     $ 106,853    $ 94,945     $ 217,732  
                               

Depreciation and amortization

         

Olefins

   $ 17,487     $ 11,829    $ 33,143     $ 23,579  

Vinyls

     8,838       8,561      17,499       17,258  

Corporate and other

     36       31      74       59  
                               
   $ 26,361     $ 20,421    $ 50,716     $ 40,896  
                               

 

12


Table of Contents

WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Other income (expense), net

         

Olefins

   $ 119     $ (1 )   $ 170    $ (1 )

Vinyls

     28       38       90      85  

Corporate and other

     (439 )     3,018       439      5,305  
                               
     (292 )     3,055       699      5,389  

Debt retirement cost

     —         —         —        (25,853 )
                               
   $ (292 )   $ 3,055     $ 699    $ (20,464 )
                               

Capital expenditures

         

Olefins

   $ 19,861     $ 21,659     $ 30,353    $ 42,069  

Vinyls

     10,300       12,478       17,924      20,424  

Corporate and other

     1,449       201       2,206      394  
                               
   $ 31,610     $ 34,338     $ 50,483    $ 62,887  
                               

A reconciliation of total segment income from operations to consolidated income before taxes is as follows:

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30,
    Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2007     2006     2007     2006  

Income from operations

   $ 62,279     $ 106,853     $ 94,945     $ 217,732  

Interest expense

     (4,495 )     (3,898 )     (8,088 )     (9,924 )

Debt retirement cost

     —         —         —         (25,853 )

Other income (expense), net

     (292 )     3,055       699       5,389  
                                

Income before taxes

   $ 57,492     $ 106,010     $ 87,556     $ 187,344  
                                

 

     June 30,
2007
   December 31,
2006

Total Assets

     

Olefins

   $ 1,441,701    $ 1,390,513

Vinyls

     621,106      578,507

Corporate and other

     109,573      113,078
             
   $ 2,172,380    $ 2,082,098
             

14. Comprehensive Income Information

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30,
   Six Months Ended
June 30,
     2007    2006    2007    2006

Net income

   $ 37,890    $ 67,169    $ 57,562    $ 118,506

Other comprehensive income:

           

Change in foreign currency translation

     1,945      801      2,249      902
                           

Comprehensive income

   $ 39,835    $ 67,970    $ 59,811    $ 119,408
                           

15. Long-Term Debt

Long-term indebtedness consists of the following:

 

     June 30,
2007
   December 31,
2006

6 5/8% Senior notes due 2016

   $ 249,307    $ 249,267

Loan related to tax-exempt revenue bonds

     10,889      10,889
             

Long-term debt

   $ 260,196    $ 260,156
             

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

At certain times during the first six months of 2007, the Company had borrowings under its $300.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility that bore interest at either LIBOR plus 1.00% or prime rate minus 0.50%. The revolving credit facility also requires an unused commitment fee of 0.25%. At June 30, 2007 there were no borrowings outstanding under the revolving credit facility. All interest rates under the facility are subject to quarterly grid pricing adjustments based on a fixed charge coverage ratio. The facility matures on January 6, 2011.

16. Guarantor Disclosures

The Company’s payment obligations under its 6 5/8% senior notes are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by each of its current and future domestic restricted subsidiaries that guarantee other debt of the Company or of another guarantor of the 6 5/8% senior notes in excess of $5,000 (the “Guarantor Subsidiaries”). Each Guarantor Subsidiary is 100% owned by the parent company. These guarantees are the joint and several obligations of the Guarantor Subsidiaries. The following unaudited condensed consolidating financial information presents the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of Westlake Chemical Corporation, the Guarantor Subsidiaries and the remaining subsidiaries that do not guarantee the notes (the “Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries”), together with consolidating adjustments necessary to present the Company’s results on a consolidated basis.

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information as of June 30, 2007

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated

Balance Sheet

           

Current assets

           

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 40,966     $ 97    $ 1,552     $ —       $ 42,615

Accounts receivable, net

     54,755       382,469      2,948       (40,340 )     399,832

Inventories, net

     —         449,299      15,220       —         464,519

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     9       14,417      220       —         14,646

Deferred income taxes

     15,464       —        259       —         15,723
                                     

Total current assets

     111,194       846,282      20,199       (40,340 )     937,335

Property, plant and equipment, net

     —         1,075,140      11,733       —         1,086,873

Equity investment

     1,605,535       15,300      28,210       (1,620,835 )     28,210

Other assets, net

     40,579       109,681      5,732       (36,030 )     119,962
                                     

Total assets

   $ 1,757,308     $ 2,046,403    $ 65,874     $ (1,697,205 )   $ 2,172,380
                                     

Current liabilities

           

Accounts payable

   $ 22,166     $ 235,554    $ 2,551     $ —       $ 260,271

Accrued liabilities

     (3,053 )     81,986      (156 )     (25 )     78,752
                                     

Total current liabilities

     19,113       317,540      2,395       (25 )     339,023

Long-term debt

     249,307       79,136      8,100       (76,347 )     260,196

Deferred income taxes

     246,637       47,537      2,027       —         296,201

Other liabilities

     12,658       34,709      —         —         47,367

Stockholders’ equity

     1,229,593       1,567,481      53,352       (1,620,833 )     1,229,593
                                     

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 1,757,308     $ 2,046,403    $ 65,874     $ (1,697,205 )   $ 2,172,380
                                     

 

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Table of Contents

WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information as of December 31, 2006

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Eliminations     Consolidated

Balance Sheet

            

Current assets

            

Cash and cash equivalents

   $ 46,670     $ 91    $ 5,885    $ —       $ 52,646

Accounts receivable, net

     65,041       287,327      6,510      (49,975 )     308,903

Inventories, net

     —         445,516      10,760      —         456,276

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

     10       16,054      22      —         16,086

Deferred income taxes

     15,463       —        413      —         15,876
                                    

Total current assets

     127,184       748,988      23,590      (49,975 )     849,787

Property, plant and equipment, net

     —         1,065,965      10,938      —         1,076,903

Equity investment

     1,515,188       15,300      26,382      (1,530,488 )     26,382

Other assets, net

     41,870       117,529      5,657      (36,030 )     129,026
                                    

Total assets

   $ 1,684,242     $ 1,947,782    $ 66,567    $ (1,616,493 )   $ 2,082,098
                                    

Current liabilities

            

Accounts payable

     26,811       206,239      5,864      —         238,914

Accrued liabilities

     (10,059 )     91,481      1,587      (11 )     82,998
                                    

Total current liabilities

     16,752       297,720      7,451      (11 )     321,912

Long-term debt

     249,267       88,953      7,932      (85,996 )     260,156

Deferred income taxes

     232,797       47,537      1,494      —         281,828

Other liabilities

     11,885       32,776      —        —         44,661

Stockholders’ equity

     1,173,541       1,480,796      49,690      (1,530,486 )     1,173,541
                                    

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

   $ 1,684,242     $ 1,947,782    $ 66,567    $ (1,616,493 )   $ 2,082,098
                                    

 

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Table of Contents

WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2007

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Statement of Operations

          

Net sales

   $ —       $ 773,052     $ 12,218     $ (2,606 )   $ 782,664  

Cost of sales

     —         688,937       11,902       (2,606 )     698,233  
                                        

Gross profit

     —         84,115       316       —         84,431  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     348       21,201       603       —         22,152  
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (348 )     62,914       (287 )     —         62,279  

Interest expense

     1,451       (5,946 )     —         —         (4,495 )

Other income (expense), net

     37,520       (297 )     1,002       (38,517 )     (292 )
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     38,623       56,671       715       (38,517 )     57,492  

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

     733       19,117       (248 )     —         19,602  
                                        

Net income (loss)

   $ 37,890     $ 37,554     $ 963     $ (38,517 )   $ 37,890  
                                        

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information for the Three Months Ended June 30, 2006

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Statement of Operations

          

Net sales

   $ —       $ 657,602     $ 13,773     $ (2,108 )   $ 669,267  

Cost of sales

     —         534,135       12,028       (2,108 )     544,055  
                                        

Gross profit

     —         123,467       1,745       —         125,212  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     171       17,345       843       —         18,359  
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (171 )     106,122       902       —         106,853  

Interest expense

     293       (4,191 )     —         —         (3,898 )

Other income (expense), net

     63,432       198       1,002       (61,577 )     3,055  
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     63,554       102,129       1,904       (61,577 )     106,010  

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

     (3,615 )     42,486       (30 )     —         38,841  
                                        

Net income (loss)

   $ 67,169     $ 59,643     $ 1,934     $ (61,577 )   $ 67,169  
                                        

 

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Table of Contents

WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2007

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Statement of Operations

          

Net sales

   $ —       $ 1,483,889     $ 22,345     $ (4,768 )   $ 1,501,466  

Cost of sales

     —         1,342,765       21,149       (4,768 )     1,359,146  
                                        

Gross profit

     —         141,124       1,196       —         142,320  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     641       44,909       1,825       —         47,375  
                                        

Income (loss) from operations

     (641 )     96,215       (629 )     —         94,945  

Interest expense

     2,024       (10,112 )     —         —         (8,088 )

Other income (expense), net

     56,253       (11 )     1,829       (57,372 )     699  
                                        

Income (loss) before income taxes

     57,636       86,092       1,200       (57,372 )     87,556  

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

     74       30,054       (134 )     —         29,994  
                                        

Net income (loss)

   $ 57,562     $ 56,038     $ 1,334     $ (57,372 )   $ 57,562  
                                        

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2006

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
   Eliminations     Consolidated  

Statement of Operations

           

Net sales

   $ —       $ 1,269,820     $ 23,923    $ (5,697 )   $ 1,288,046  

Cost of sales

     —         1,016,125       21,348      (5,697 )     1,031,776  
                                       

Gross profit

     —         253,695       2,575      —         256,270  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     709       36,129       1,700      —         38,538  
                                       

Income (loss) from operations

     (709 )     217,566       875      —         217,732  

Interest expense

     (1,456 )     (8,468 )     —        —         (9,924 )

Other income (expense), net

     113,012       400       1,390      (135,266 )     (20,464 )
                                       

Income (loss) before income taxes

     110,847       209,498       2,265      (135,266 )     187,344  

Provision for (benefit from) income taxes

     (7,659 )     75,932       565      —         68,838  
                                       

Net income (loss)

   $ 118,506     $ 133,566     $ 1,700    $ (135,266 )   $ 118,506  
                                       

 

18


Table of Contents

WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2007

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Statement of Cash Flows

          

Cash flows from operating activities

          

Net income (loss)

   $ 57,562     $ 56,038     $ 1,334     $ (57,372 )   $ 57,562  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash used for operating activities

          

Depreciation and amortization

     —         49,175       1,541       —         50,716  

Provision for doubtful accounts

     —         21       180       —         201  

Loss from disposition of fixed assets

     —         25       —         —         25  

Deferred tax expense

     13,839       —         578       —         14,417  

Equity in income of joint venture

     —         —         (1,520 )     —         (1,520 )

Net changes in working capital and other

     (89,600 )     (49,709 )     (5,286 )     57,372       (87,223 )
                                        

Net cash (used for) provided by operating activities

     (18,199 )     55,550       (3,173 )     —         34,178  

Cash flows from investing activities

          

Additions to property, plant and equipment

     —         (49,591 )     (892 )     —         (50,483 )

Additions to equity investments

     —         —         (308 )     —         (308 )

Acquisition of business

     8,043       —         —         —         8,043  

Proceeds from disposition of assets

     —         33       —         —         33  

Settlements of derivative instruments

     —         3,673       —         —         3,673  
                                        

Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities

     8,043       (45,885 )     (1,200 )     —         (39,042 )

Cash flows from financing activities

          

Intercompany financing

     9,619       (9,659 )     40       —         —    

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     62       —         —         —         62  

Dividends paid

     (5,229 )     —         —         —         (5,229 )

Proceeds from borrowings

     191,684       —         —         —         191,684  

Repayments of borrowings

     (191,684 )     —         —         —         (191,684 )
                                        

Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities

     4,452       (9,659 )     40       —         (5,167 )

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

     (5,704 )     6       (4,333 )     —         (10,031 )

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     46,670       91       5,885       —         52,646  
                                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 40,966     $ 97     $ 1,552     $ —       $ 42,615  
                                        

 

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WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – (Continued)

(UNAUDITED)

(dollars in thousands, except per share data)

 

Condensed Consolidating Financial Information for the Six Months Ended June 30, 2006

 

     Westlake
Chemical
Corporation
    Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Non-Guarantor
Subsidiaries
    Eliminations     Consolidated  

Statement of Cash Flows

          

Net income (loss)

   $ 118,506     $ 133,566     $ 1,700     $ (135,266 )   $ 118,506  

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities

          

Depreciation and amortization

     472       39,272       1,624       —         41,368  

Provision for bad debts

     —         634       —         —         634  

Gain from disposition of fixed assets

     —         (13 )     —         —         (13 )

Deferred tax expense

     (7,659 )     17,860       535       —         10,736  

Equity in income of joint venture

     —         —         (1,093 )     —         (1,093 )

Write-off of debt issuance costs

     —         3,623       —         —         3,623  

Net changes in working capital and other

     (169,649 )     1,818       5,704       135,266       (26,861 )
                                        

Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities

     (58,330 )     196,760       8,470       —         146,900  

Cash flows from investing activities

          

Additions to property, plant and equipment

     —         (61,843 )     (1,044 )     —         (62,887 )

Additions to equity investment

     —         —         (4,574 )     —         (4,574 )

Proceeds from disposition of assets

     —         7       —         —         7  

Settlements of futures contracts

     —         (27,445 )     —         —         (27,445 )
                                        

Net cash used for investing activities

     —         (89,281 )     (5,618 )     —         (94,899 )

Cash flows from financing activities

          

Intercompany financing

     107,520       (107,551 )     31       —         —    

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

     396       —         —         —         396  

Dividends paid

     (3,583 )     —         —         —         (3,583 )

Proceeds from borrowings

     249,185       —         —         —         249,185  

Repayments of borrowings

     (256,000 )     —         —         —         (256,000 )

Capitalized debt costs

     (4,279 )     —         —         —         (4,279 )
                                        

Net cash (used for) provided by financing activities

     93,239       (107,551 )     31       —         (14,281 )

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     34,909       (72 )     2,883       —         37,720  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

     231,957       151       5,787       —         237,895  
                                        

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

   $ 266,866     $ 79     $ 8,670     $ —       $ 275,615  
                                        

 

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

This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with information contained in the accompanying unaudited consolidated interim financial statements of Westlake Chemical Corporation and the notes thereto and the consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Westlake Chemical Corporation included in Westlake Chemical Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements. Please read “Forward-Looking Statements” for a discussion of limitations inherent in such statements.

We are a vertically integrated manufacturer and marketer of petrochemicals, polymers and fabricated products. Our two principal business segments are Olefins and Vinyls. We use the majority of our internally-produced basic chemicals to produce higher value-added chemicals and fabricated products.

Recent Developments

We completed a major turnaround during the second quarter of 2007 for one of our ethylene units at our Lake Charles facility. The unit was shut down for approximately 30 days to complete the tie-in portion of our previously announced project designed to upgrade the feedstock flexibility of the unit, which is expected to reduce energy costs and provide for additional ethylene capacity. The cost of the turnaround of approximately $9.0 million was capitalized. During the turnaround, production at the unit was suspended while work on the unit was performed; however, sales continued during the turnaround period.

In April 2006, we announced that we had entered into a Memorandum of Understanding to study the development of an ethane-based ethylene, polyethylene and other derivatives project in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has expressed an interest in becoming a minority equity partner in the project. As currently envisioned, the project would use 37,500 barrels per day of ethane to produce 570,000 metric tons (1.25 billion pounds) per year of ethylene, which would in turn be used to produce polyethylene and other derivative products. The project could be expanded in the future as more ethane becomes available. The capital cost is initially estimated to be approximately $1.5 billion. The size, scope, and cost of the project are subject to further definition in connection with a detailed feasibility study that we are currently performing. It is expected that the project will be financed through a project financing arrangement.

On November 30, 2006 we acquired Eastman Chemical Company’s polyethylene business, related assets and a 200 mile, 10-inch pipeline from Mont Belvieu, Texas to Longview, Texas, all of which are headquartered in Longview, Texas (Longview). A more detailed description of this acquisition can be found in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006. See Note 7 to the accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements for more information.

Results of Operations

Segment Data

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30,
  

Six Months Ended

June 30,

     2007    2006    2007    2006
     (dollars in thousands)

Net External Sales

           

Olefins

           

Polyethylene

   $ 382,473    $ 206,420    $ 726,004    $ 395,876

Ethylene, styrene and other

     132,367      142,232      273,062      292,493
                           

Total olefins

     514,840      348,652      999,066      688,369

Vinyls

           

Fabricated finished goods

     131,024      181,879      258,751      322,288

VCM, PVC and other

     136,800      138,736      243,649      277,389
                           

Total vinyls

     267,824      320,615      502,400      599,677
                           
   $ 782,664    $ 669,267    $ 1,501,466    $ 1,288,046
                           

 

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     Three Months Ended
June 30,
    Six Months Ended
June 30,
 
     2007     2006     2007     2006  
     (dollars in thousands)  

Income (loss) from operations

        

Olefins

   $ 42,716     $ 62,029     $ 69,935     $ 121,594  

Vinyls

     20,817       44,251       28,609       98,662  

Corporate and other

     (1,254 )     573       (3,599 )     (2,524 )
                                

Total income from operations

     62,279       106,853       94,945       217,732  

Interest expense

     (4,495 )     (3,898 )     (8,088 )     (9,924 )

Debt retirement cost

     —         —         —         (25,853 )

Other (expense) income, net

     (292 )     3,055       699       5,389  

Provision for income taxes

     (19,602 )     (38,841 )     (29,994 )     (68,838 )
                                

Net income

   $ 37,890     $ 67,169     $ 57,562     $ 118,506  
                                

Earnings per share (diluted)

   $ 0.58     $ 1.03     $ 0.88     $ 1.82  
                                

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30, 2007
    Six Months Ended
June 30, 2007
 
     Average
Sales Price
    Volume     Average
Sales Price
    Volume  

Product sales price and volume percentage change from prior year period

        

Olefins(1)

   +7.3 %   +40.4 %   -4.0 %   +49.2 %

Vinyls

   -16.3 %   -0.2 %   -22.2 %   +6.0 %

Company average(1)

   -4.0 %   +21.0 %   -12.2 %   +28.8 %

(1) Excluding the volumes attributable to the acquisition of the Longview facilities, the percentage decrease in sales volumes for olefins and company average is 2.7% and 1.5%, respectively for the second quarter, and the percentage increase for olefins and company average volumes is 7.4% and 6.7%, respectively for the six month period.

 

     Three Months Ended
June 30,
   Six Months Ended
June 30,
     2007    2006    2007    2006

Average industry prices

           

Ethane (cents/lb) (1)

   24.3    22.8    22.1    21.0

Propane (cents/lb)

   26.7    24.9    24.8    23.6

Ethylene (cents/lb) (2)

   44.7    46.5    42.3    48.4

Polyethylene (cents/lb) (3)

   72.7    73.0    69.8    75.5

Styrene (cents/lb) (4)

   71.3    61.7    68.0    61.1

Caustic ($/short ton) (5)

   405.0    393.3    382.5    408.7

Chlorine ($/short ton) (6)

   322.5    332.5    310.0    332.5

VCM (cents/lb) (7)

   40.8    42.2    39.0    43.1

PVC (cents/lb) (8)

   59.0    60.0    56.2    61.4

Source: CMAI

(1) Industry pricing data was obtained through the Chemical Market Associates, Inc., or CMAI. We have not independently verified the data.
(2) Represents average North American spot prices of ethylene over the period as reported by CMAI.
(3) Represents average North American contract prices of polyethylene film over the period as reported by CMAI.
(4) Represents average North American spot prices of styrene over the period as reported by CMAI.
(5) Represents average North American spot prices of caustic soda (diaphragm grade) over the period as reported by CMAI.
(6) Represents average North American contract prices of chlorine (into chemicals) over the period as reported by CMAI.
(7) Represents North American contract prices of VCM over the period as reported by CMAI.
(8) Represents North American contract prices of PVC over the period as reported by CMAI.

 

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Summary

For the second quarter of 2007, net income was $37.9 million, or $0.58 per diluted share, a decrease of 43.6% from the second quarter of 2006 net income of $67.2 million, or $1.03 per diluted share. Income from operations was $62.3 million on net sales of $782.7 million for the second quarter of 2007 as compared to second-quarter 2006 income from operations of $106.9 million on net sales of $669.3 million. The decline in income from operations was primarily the result of lower margins due to higher feedstock costs and lower sales prices for polyethylene, PVC resin and PVC pipe. The second quarter of 2007 was also negatively impacted by a scheduled turnaround at one of our ethylene units in Lake Charles, Louisiana which was down approximately 30 days during the quarter to complete the tie-in portion of a previously announced project to upgrade the feedstock flexibility of the unit. Sales increased $113.4 million, or 16.9%, over the second quarter of 2006, primarily as a result of additional polyethylene volumes from the acquisition of the Longview facilities in late 2006.

For the six months ended June 30, 2007, net income was $57.6 million, or $0.88 per diluted share, on net sales of $1,501 million. This represents a decrease of $60.9 million, or $0.94 per diluted share, from the six months ended June 30, 2006 net income of $118.5 million, or $1.82 per diluted share, on net sales of $1,288 million. Sales for the six months ended June 30, 2007 increased over the first six months of 2006 due to higher sales volumes for ethylene, PVC resin and caustic, and additional polyethylene volume as a result of the Longview acquisition. This increase was partially offset by lower sales prices for most products and lower PVC pipe sales volume. Income from operations was $94.9 million for the first half of 2007 as compared to $217.7 million for the first half of 2006. The 2007 results have been negatively impacted by a number of factors including a slow-down in housing starts and a dramatic drop in selling prices and margins that began early in the fourth quarter of 2006 and extended into the first half of 2007. This pricing environment is in contrast with early 2006, which benefited from strong market conditions that existed for a period of time following Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. We are, however, beginning to see some pricing improvement for ethylene, polyethylene and PVC as prices have improved from early in the year. Despite the improving prices, however, margins in the Vinyls segment have not appreciably improved. In addition, the Vinyls segment is expected to have further negative pressure in early 2008 due to additional capacity coming on-stream next year.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Second Quarter 2007 Compared with Second Quarter 2006

Net Sales. Net sales increased by $113.4 million to $782.7 million in the second quarter of 2007 from $669.3 million in the second quarter of 2006. This increase was primarily due to higher sales volumes for polyethylene. Polyethylene sales volumes were significantly higher in the second quarter of 2007 as compared to the second quarter of 2006 largely due to the acquisition of the Longview facilities in late 2006.

Gross Margin. Gross margin percentage decreased to 10.8% in the second quarter of 2007 from 18.7% in the second quarter of 2006. This decrease was primarily due to lower sales prices for most of our major products and higher cost of raw materials. Our raw material cost in both segments normally tracks industry prices, which experienced an increase of 6.6% for ethane and 7.2% for propane as compared to the second quarter of 2006. In addition, we had a $4.1 million gain in connection with trading activity for the second quarter of 2007 compared to a $7.1 million gain for the second quarter of 2006, a decrease of $3.0 million (see Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements).

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $3.8 million, or 20.7%, in the second quarter of 2007 as compared to the second quarter of 2006. The increase was primarily due to transition costs and other operating expenses related to the acquisition of the Longview facilities.

Interest Expense. Interest expense in the second quarter of 2007 increased by $0.6 million to $4.5 million from $3.9 million in the second quarter of 2006, primarily due to higher average debt outstanding for the period resulting from borrowings under the revolving credit facility in 2007. In addition, we ceased capitalizing interest in the second quarter of 2007 on our feedstock flexibility project, which was completed during the second quarter.

Other (Expense) Income, Net. Other (expense) income, net decreased by $3.4 million to an expense of $0.3 million in the second quarter of 2007 from income of $3.1 million in the second quarter of 2006 primarily due to lower interest income associated with lower cash balances and a $0.9 million write-down of a long-term investment.

Income Taxes. The effective income tax rate was 34.1% in the second quarter of 2007 as compared to 36.6% in the second quarter of 2006. The 2007 tax rate was below the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state tax credits and the domestic manufacturing deduction, partially offset by state income taxes. The 2006 tax rate was above the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state income taxes, partially offset by the manufacturing deduction.

 

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Olefins Segment

Net Sales. Net sales increased by $166.1 million, or 47.6%, to $514.8 million in the second quarter of 2007 from $348.7 million in the second quarter of 2006. This increase was primarily due to the additional polyethylene sales volume from our Longview facilities, which were acquired in the fourth quarter of 2006.

Income from Operations. Income from operations decreased by $19.3 million, or 31.1%, to $42.7 million in the second quarter of 2007 from $62.0 million in the second quarter of 2006. This decrease was primarily due to the decrease in polyethylene prices and margins which began early in the fourth quarter of 2006 and continued into the first half of 2007. Although product prices and margins have improved from their lows, margins in the second quarter of 2007 were still significantly below the levels that existed in the second quarter of 2006 primarily due to higher feedstock prices. The second quarter of 2007 was also negatively impacted by a scheduled turnaround at one of our ethylene units in Lake Charles, Louisiana which was down approximately 30 days during the quarter. In addition, trading activity resulted in a gain in the second quarter of 2007 of $4.1 million as compared to $7.1 million in the second quarter of 2006. These decreases were partially offset by the income from operations contributed by the Longview facilities.

Vinyls Segment

Net Sales. Net sales decreased by $52.8 million, or 16.5%, to $267.8 million in the second quarter of 2007 from $320.6 million in the second quarter of 2006. This decrease was due to lower selling prices for PVC resin and PVC pipe and lower sales volumes for PVC pipe and VCM. The decreased sales prices were partially offset by higher sales volumes for PVC resin and caustic. Average selling prices for the Vinyls segment decreased by 16.3% in the second quarter of 2007 as compared to the second quarter of 2006.

Income from Operations. Income from operations decreased by $23.5 million, or 53.0%, to $20.8 million in the second quarter of 2007 from $44.3 million in the second quarter of 2006. This decrease was primarily due to lower selling prices and margins for most of our vinyls products as well as overall lower sales volumes. Selling prices, margins and sales volumes for PVC resin and PVC pipe fell dramatically in the fourth quarter of 2006 due to weakness in the housing market, falling energy prices and seasonal slowdowns. Sales prices and margins continued under pressure in the first half of 2007. However, sales volumes and prices have improved from their lowest levels in connection with several industry-wide PVC resin price increases beginning in March 2007. Despite these price increases, overall product margin has not improved significantly for the Vinyls segment as feedstock prices have also increased. By comparison, the second quarter of 2006 was very strong due to continued strong industry demand partially due to supply constraints resulting from the impact of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

Six Months Ended June 30, 2007 Compared with Six Months Ended June 30, 2006

Net Sales. Net sales increased by $213.5 million to $1,501.5 million in the first six months of 2007 from $1,288.0 million in the first six months of 2006. This increase was primarily due to higher sales volumes for polyethylene, ethylene, caustic and PVC resin. Polyethylene sales volumes were significantly higher in the first half of 2007 as compared to the first half of 2006 due to the acquisition of the Longview facilities. These increases were partially offset by lower sales prices for most of our major products.

Gross Margin. Gross margin percentage decreased to 9.5% in the first six months of 2007 from 19.9% in the first six months of 2006. This decrease was primarily due to lower sales prices for most of our major products and higher cost of raw materials. Our raw material cost in both segments normally tracks industry prices, which experienced an increase of 5.2% for ethane and 5.1% for propane as compared to the first half of 2006. In addition, we had a $4.8 million gain in connection with trading activity for the first six months of 2007 compared to a $12.3 million gain for the first six months of 2006, a decrease of $7.5 million (see Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements).

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses. Selling, general and administrative expenses increased $8.9 million, or 23.1%, in the first half of 2007 as compared to the first half of 2006. The increase was primarily due to transition costs and other operating expenses related to the acquisition of the Longview facilities.

Interest Expense. Interest expense in the first half of 2007 decreased by $1.8 million to $8.1 million from $9.9 million in the first six months of 2006, primarily due to lower average interest rates and lower average debt outstanding for the period. Average interest rates were lower due to the refinancing completed in the first quarter of 2006.

Debt Retirement Cost. As a result of the redemption of $247.0 million aggregate principal amount of 8 3/4% senior notes due July 15, 2011 and the repayment of $9.0 million of our term loan, we recognized $25.9 million in non-operating expense in the first quarter of 2006, consisting of a pre-payment premium on our 8 3 /4% senior notes of $22.2 million and a write-off of

 

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$3.7 million in previously capitalized debt issuance cost. We did not recognize any debt retirement costs in the first six months of 2007.

Other Income, Net. Other income, net decreased by $4.7 million to $0.7 million in the first six months of 2007 from $5.4 million in the first half of 2006 primarily due to lower interest income associated with lower cash balances and the write-down of a long-term investment.

Income Taxes. The effective income tax rate was 34.3% in the first half of 2007 as compared to 36.7% in the first half of 2006. The 2007 tax rate was slightly above the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state tax credits and the domestic manufacturing deduction, partially offset by state income taxes. The 2006 tax rate was above the statutory rate of 35% primarily due to state income taxes.

Olefins Segment

Net Sales. Net sales increased by $310.7 million, or 45.1%, to $999.1 million in the first six months of 2007 from $688.4 million in the first six months of 2006. This increase was primarily due to the additional polyethylene sales volume from our Longview facilities, which were acquired in the fourth quarter of 2006. These increases were partially offset by lower sales prices. Average selling prices for the Olefins segment decreased by 4.0% in the first half of 2007 as compared to the first half of 2006.

Income from Operations. Income from operations decreased by $51.7 million, or 42.5%, to $69.9 million in the first six months of 2007 from $121.6 million in the first six months of 2006. This decrease was primarily due to the sharp decrease in product prices and margins which began early in the fourth quarter of 2006 and continued into 2007. There have been several price increases during the first half of 2007, but margins were still significantly below the levels in the first half of 2006. In addition, trading activity resulted in a gain in the first six months of 2007 of $4.8 million as compared to $12.3 million in the first six months of 2006.

Vinyls Segment

Net Sales. Net sales decreased by $97.3 million, or 16.2%, to $502.4 million in the first six months of 2007 from $599.7 million in the first six months of 2006. This decrease was due to lower selling prices for all of our major vinyls products. The decreased sales prices were partially offset by higher sales volumes for PVC resin and caustic. Average selling prices for the Vinyls segment decreased by 22.2% in the first half of 2007 as compared to the first half of 2006.

Income from Operations. Income from operations decreased by $70.1 million, or 71.0%, to $28.6 million in the first six months of 2007 from $98.7 million in the first six months of 2006. This decrease was primarily due to lower selling prices for all of our major vinyls products and higher feedstock costs which was partially offset by higher sales volumes for PVC resin and caustic soda. Selling prices, margins and sales volumes for PVC resin and PVC pipe fell dramatically in the fourth quarter of 2006 due to weakness in the housing market, falling energy prices and seasonal slowdowns. Margins have continued under pressure in the first half of 2007, despite several price increases in the industry. Sales volumes in the first six months of 2007 have generally improved from the fourth quarter of 2006 and were higher than the first six months of 2006 for PVC resin and caustic soda, although PVC pipe sales volume were down slightly. For the most part, margins and demand in the first six months of 2006 was very strong due to supply constraints resulting from the impact from Hurricanes Katrina and Rita.

CASH FLOW DISCUSSION FOR SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2007 AND 2006

Cash Flows

Operating Activities

Operating activities provided cash of $34.2 million in the first six months of 2007 compared to $146.9 million in the first six months of 2006. The $112.7 million decrease in cash flows from operating activities was primarily due to lower income from operations in 2007 and unfavorable changes in working capital, which were partially offset by $25.9 million of debt retirement costs incurred in 2006. Income from operations decreased by $122.8 million in the first six months of 2007 as compared to the first six months of 2006. Changes in components of working capital, which we define for purposes of this cash flow discussion as accounts receivable, inventories, prepaid expense and other current assets less accounts payable and accrued liabilities, used cash of $81.1 million in the first six months of 2007, compared to $15.6 million of cash used in the first six months of 2006, an increase in cash use of $65.5 million. In the first six months of 2007, accounts receivable increased by $92.8 million largely due to increased sales while inventory decreased by $8.2 million. Accounts payable and accrued liabilities increased by $18.5 million during the first six months of 2007. The primary reason for the $15.6 million

 

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use of cash related to working capital in the first six months of 2006 was due to an increase in accounts receivable of $20.9 million, partially offset by an increase in accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $10.5 million.

Investing Activities

Net cash used for investing activities during the first six months of 2007 was $39.0 million compared to $94.9 million in the first six months of 2006. Capital expenditures were $50.5 million in the first six months of 2007 compared to $62.9 million in the first six months of 2006. The 2006 period included significant expenditures related to a project designed to upgrade the feedstock flexibility in our ethylene unit. The costs related to this project were lower in the 2007 period as the project was put into service during the second quarter of 2007. The remaining capital expenditures in the first quarters of 2007 and 2006 primarily related to maintenance, safety and environmental projects. In addition, we received $8.0 million as an adjustment to the purchase price of the Longview facilities. The cash settlement of derivative instruments in the first half of 2006 related to derivative losses recognized in 2005.

Financing Activities

Net cash used for financing activities during the first six months of 2007 was $5.2 million compared to $14.3 million in the first six months of 2006. The 2007 activity was primarily related to the payment of cash dividends. We had some activity under our revolving credit facility, but this activity had no net impact as we paid off all borrowings during the period. During the first six months of 2006, we received proceeds of $249.2 million from the issuance of our 6 5/8% senior notes, which was offset by the repayment of $256.0 million of debt and the payment of $3.6 million of cash dividends. We also incurred $4.3 million in costs associated with the refinancing that were capitalized during the first half of 2006 that will be amortized over the term of the new debt.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

Liquidity and Financing Arrangements

Our principal sources of liquidity are from cash and cash equivalents, cash from operations, borrowings under a revolving credit facility and long-term financing. In addition, we are currently considering a federal and state supported debt financing arrangement involving the issuance of tax-exempt bonds, the proceeds of which would be restricted to fund capital projects in Louisiana. Also, as discussed previously, we are currently performing a feasibility study in connection with the potential development of an ethane-based ethylene, polyethylene and other derivatives project in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. The capital cost is initially estimated to be approximately $1.5 billion, in which we would be a majority partner. If this project is approved, construction could commence in 2008. It is expected that we would invest some level of cash and the remainder would be financed through a project financing arrangement. We believe that our sources of liquidity as described above, along with any additional project financing, will be adequate to fund our cash requirements.

Cash

Cash balances were $42.6 million at June 30, 2007 compared to $52.6 million at December 31, 2006.

Debt

Our $300.0 million senior secured revolving credit facility is a source of liquidity. During the second quarter of 2007, borrowings under the revolving credit facility bore interest at either LIBOR plus 1.00% or prime rate minus 0.50%. The revolving credit facility also requires an unused commitment fee of 0.25%. All interest rates under the facility are subject to quarterly grid pricing adjustments based on a fixed charge coverage ratio. The facility matures on January 6, 2011.

As of June 30, 2007, our long term debt totaled $260.2 million, consisting of $249.3 million principal amount of 6 5/8% senior notes due 2016 and a $10.9 million loan from the proceeds of tax-exempt revenue bonds (supported by a $11.3 million letter of credit). There were no borrowings outstanding under our revolving credit facility at June 30, 2007. Debt outstanding under the revolving credit facility and the tax-exempt bonds bears interest at variable rates.

On January 13, 2006, we issued $250.0 million of 6 5/8% aggregate principal amount of senior notes due 2016, the proceeds of which, together with cash on hand, were used to redeem our 8 3/4% senior notes due 2011 and repay our term loan as follows:

 

   

On January 18, 2006, we repaid the entire $9.0 million outstanding under our term loan, plus accrued but unpaid interest.

 

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On two redemption dates, February 8, 2006 and February 13, 2006, we redeemed the entire $247.0 million principal amount outstanding of our 8 3/4% senior notes due 2011, and paid a make-whole premium of $22.2 million, plus accrued and unpaid interest.

As a result of the early redemption of the 8 3/4% senior notes due 2011 and the repayment of the term loan, we recognized $25.9 million in non-operating expense in the first quarter of 2006 consisting of a pre-payment premium on the 8 3/4 % senior notes of $22.2 million and a write-off of $3.7 million in previously capitalized debt issuance cost.

The 6 5/8% senior notes are unsecured and were issued with an original issue discount of $0.8 million. There is no sinking fund and no scheduled amortization of the notes prior to maturity. The notes are subject to redemption and the holders may require us to repurchase the notes upon a change of control. All domestic restricted subsidiaries that guarantee other debt of ours or of another guarantor of the senior notes in excess of $5 million are guarantors of the notes.

The agreements governing the 6 5/8% senior notes and the revolving credit facility each contain customary covenants and events of default. Accordingly, these agreements impose significant operating and financial restrictions on us. These restrictions, among other things, provide limitations on incurrence of additional indebtedness, the payment of dividends, certain investments and acquisitions and sales of assets. These limitations are subject to a number of important qualifications and exceptions, including, without limitation, an exception for the payment of our regular quarterly dividend of up to $0.20 per share (currently $0.04 per share). The 6 5/8% senior notes indenture does not allow distributions unless, after giving pro forma effect to the distribution, our fixed charge coverage ratio is at least 2.0 and such payment, together with the aggregate amount of all other distributions after January 13, 2006, is less than the sum of 50% of our consolidated net income for the period from October 1, 2003 to the end of the most recent quarter for which financial statements have been filed, plus 100% of net cash proceeds received after October 1, 2003 as a contribution to our common equity capital or from the issuance or sale of certain securities, plus several other adjustments. The amount allowed under this restriction was $458,776 at June 30, 2007. The revolving credit facility also restricts dividend payments unless, after giving effect to such payment, the availability under the line of credit equals or exceeds $60.0 million. None of the agreements require us to maintain specified financial ratios, except that the revolving credit facility requires us to maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.0 to 1.0 when availability falls below $60.0 million. In addition, the 6 5/8% senior notes indenture and the revolving credit facility restrict our ability to create liens, to engage in certain affiliate transactions and to engage in sale-leaseback transactions.

Our ability to make payments on our indebtedness and to fund planned capital expenditures will depend on our ability to generate cash in the future, which is subject to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. Based on our current level of operations, we believe our cash flow from operations, available cash and available borrowings under our revolving credit facility will be adequate to meet our liquidity needs for the foreseeable future.

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

None

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

The Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 provides safe harbor provisions for forward-looking information. Certain of the statements contained in this report are forward-looking statements. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this report that address activities, events or developments that we expect, project, believe or anticipate will or may occur in the future are forward-looking statements. These include such matters as:

 

   

timing, size, scope, cost and other matters related to the project in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago;

 

   

anticipated future results of operations;

 

   

industry outlook;

 

   

production capacities;

 

   

our ability to borrow additional funds under our credit facility;

 

   

our ability to meet our liquidity needs;

 

   

expected outcomes of legal and administrative proceedings and their expected effects on our financial position, results of operations and cash flows; and

 

   

compliance with present and future environmental regulations and costs associated with environmentally related penalties, capital expenditures and remedial actions.

We have based these statements on assumptions and analyses in light of our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions, expected future developments and other factors we believe were appropriate in the circumstances

 

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when the statements were made. These statements are subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, including those described in “Risk Factors” in Westlake Chemical Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006 and the following:

 

   

general economic and business conditions;

 

   

timing, duration and impact of turnarounds;

 

   

the cyclical nature of the chemical industry;

 

   

the availability, cost and volatility of raw materials and energy;

 

   

uncertainties associated with the United States and worldwide economies, including those due to political tensions in the Middle East and elsewhere;

 

   

current and potential governmental regulatory actions in the United States and regulatory actions and political unrest in other countries;

 

   

industry production capacity and operating rates;

 

   

the supply/demand balance for our products;

 

   

competitive products and pricing pressures;

 

   

access to capital markets;

 

   

terrorist acts;

 

   

operating interruptions (including leaks, explosions, fires, natural disasters, weather-related incidents, mechanical failure, unscheduled downtime, labor difficulties, transportation interruptions, spills and releases and other environmental risks);

 

   

changes in laws or regulations;

 

   

technological developments;

 

   

our ability to implement our business strategies; and

 

   

creditworthiness of our customers.

Many of these factors are beyond our ability to control or predict. Any of the factors, or a combination of these factors, could materially affect our future results of operations and the ultimate accuracy of the forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of our future performance, and our actual results and future developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Management cautions against putting undue reliance on forward-looking statements or projecting any future results based on such statements or present or prior earnings levels. Every forward-looking statement speaks only as of the date of the particular statement, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements.

 

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

Commodity Price Risk

A substantial portion of our products and raw materials are commodities whose prices fluctuate as market supply and demand fundamentals change. Accordingly, product margins and the level of our profitability tend to fluctuate with changes in the business cycle. We try to protect against such instability through various business strategies. Our strategies include ethylene product feedstock flexibility and moving downstream into the olefins and vinyls products where pricing is more stable. We use derivative instruments in certain instances to reduce price volatility risk on feedstocks and products. Based on our open derivative positions at June 30, 2007, a hypothetical $1.00 increase in the price of a MMBTU of natural gas would have increased our income before taxes by $0.6 million, a hypothetical $1.00 increase in the price of a barrel of crude oil would have decreased our income before taxes by $0.2 million and a hypothetical $0.10 increase in the price of a gallon of ethane would have increased our income before taxes by $2.1 million. Additional information concerning derivative commodity instruments appears in Note 8 to the consolidated financial statements.

Interest Rate Risk

We are exposed to interest rate risk with respect to fixed and variable rate debt. At June 30, 2007, we had variable rate debt of $10.9 million outstanding. All of the debt under our credit facility and tax exempt revenue bonds is at variable rates. We do not currently hedge our variable interest rate debt, but we may do so in the future. The average variable interest rate for our variable rate debt of $10.9 million as of June 30, 2007 was 3.98%. A hypothetical 100 basis point increase in the average interest rate on our variable rate debt would increase our annual interest expense by approximately $0.1 million.

 

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Also, at June 30, 2007, we had $249.3 million of fixed rate debt. We are subject to the risk of higher interest cost if and when this debt is refinanced. If interest rates are 1% higher at the time of refinancing, our annual interest expense would increase by approximately $2.5 million.

 

Item 4. Controls And Procedures

We carried out an evaluation, under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and procedures pursuant to Rule 13a-15 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 as of the end of the period covered by this report. In the course of this evaluation, management considered certain internal control areas in which we have made and are continuing to make changes to improve and enhance controls. Based upon that evaluation, our President and Chief Executive Officer and our Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures are effective, in all material respects, with respect to (i) the accumulation and communication to our management, including our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer, of information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we submit under the Exchange Act, and (ii) the recording, processing, summarizing and reporting of such information within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms.

There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the three months ended June 30, 2007, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

Westlake Chemical Corporation’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006 (the “2006 Form 10-K”), filed on February 26, 2007, contained a description of various legal proceedings in which we are involved, including environmental proceedings at our facilities in Calvert City, Kentucky. See Note 12 to the consolidated financial statements for an update of certain of those proceedings, which information is incorporated by reference herein.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

For a discussion of risk factors, please read Item 1A, “Risk Factors” in the 2006 Form 10-K.

 

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

The Company’s 2007 annual meeting of stockholders was held on May 18, 2007. Two matters were voted upon by the Company’s stockholders at such meeting: (1) three members of the board of directors were re-elected and (2) the appointment of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2007 was ratified. The following tabulation sets forth the number of votes cast for, against or withheld and the number of broker non-votes.

 

Election of Directors

   Votes For    Votes Withheld

E. William Barnett

   64,953,953    30,869

Robert T. Blakely

   64,954,586    30,236

Albert Chao

   57,823,213    7,161,609

 

Ratification of

   Votes For    Votes Against    Votes to Abstain    Broker Non-Votes

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

   64,971,240    11,234    2,348    0

 

Item 5. Other Information

Dr. Gilbert R. Whitaker, Jr., a member of our board of directors, passed away on June 21, 2007.

 

Item 6. Exhibits

 

Exhibit No.

   

31.1

  Rule 13a – 14(a) / 15d – 14(a) Certification (Principal Executive Officer).

31.2

  Rule 13a – 14(a) / 15d – 14(a) Certification (Principal Financial Officer).

32.1

  Section 1350 Certification (Principal Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer).

 

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SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 

    WESTLAKE CHEMICAL CORPORATION

Date: August 3, 2007

  By:  

/s/ Albert Chao

    Albert Chao
   

President and Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)

Date: August 3, 2007

  By:  

/s/ M. Steven Bender

    M. Steven Bender
   

Vice President, Chief Financial Officer & Treasurer

(Principal Financial Officer)

 

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