EX-99.1 2 o32621exv99w1.htm PRESS RELEASE DATED AUGUST 8, 2006 exv99w1
 

EXHIBIT 99.1
         
 
  FOR:   MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
 
       
 
  APPROVED BY:   Jimmy S.H. Lee
 
      Chairman & President
 
      (604) 684-1099
 
       
 
      David M. Gandossi
 
      Executive Vice-President &
 
      Chief Financial Officer
 
      (604) 684-1099
For Immediate Release
       
 
      Financial Dynamics
 
      Investors: Eric Boyriven, Alexandra Tramont
 
      Media: Scot Hoffman
 
      (212) 850-5600
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC. REPORTS 2006 SECOND QUARTER RESULTS
     NEW YORK, NY, August 8, 2006 — Mercer International Inc. (Nasdaq: MERC, TSX: MRI.U) today reported results for the second quarter of 2006.
Summary Selected Highlights
                 
    Three Months Ended June 30,
    2006       2005
    (in thousands)
    (unaudited)
Results of Operations
               
Revenues
  166,705     129,609  
Income from operations
    10,874       9,201  
Operating EBITDA(1)
    25,742       23,097  
Interest expense
    23,112       22,200  
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments
    44,690       (69,451 )
Unrealized foreign exchange gain (loss) on debt
    6,060       (9,806 )
Net income (loss)
    18,421       (62,151 )
Income (loss) per share
               
Basic
    0.56       (1.88 )
Diluted
    0.45       (1.88 )
 
               
Other Data
               
Total pulp sales volume(2) (ADMTs)
    329,265       278,752  
Mill net pulp price realizations (per ADMT)(3)
    453       403  
 
(1)   For a definition of Operating EBITDA, see page 7 of this press release and for a reconciliation of net income (loss) to Operating EBITDA, see page 10 of the financial tables included in this press release.
 
(2)   Excluding intercompany sales volumes of 4,871 ADMTs and 4,105 ADMTs of pulp in the three months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
 
(3)   Excluding revenues from third party transportation activities.
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Mercer Reports 2006 Second Quarter Results
  Page 2
    Certain key factors affecting our 2006 second quarter results include:
    Revenues increased by over 28% to 166.7 million from 129.6 million in the comparative period of 2005, primarily due to higher sales from our Celgar and Stendal pulp mills.
 
    Pulp markets strengthened quarter over quarter. Average list prices for NBSK pulp in Europe were $665 per ADMT in the second quarter of 2006 and $618 per ADMT in the first quarter of 2006, compared to $613 per ADMT in the second quarter of 2005.
 
    Mill net pulp realizations increased to 453 per ADMT in the second quarter of 2006 from 425 and 413 per ADMT in the first quarter of 2006 and the fourth quarter of 2005, respectively.
 
    We took scheduled maintenance and strategic capital expenditure downtime of approximately 30 days at all of our pulp mills, of which 16 days were at our Rosenthal mill and 8 days were at our Celgar mill. The total maintenance costs associated with the shutdowns were approximately 4.3 million and were expensed in the quarter. Further, the Stendal mill underwent testing of various departments and converted some production to TCF pulp pursuant to the terms of its EPC contract which curtailed production during such period. This downtime and testing negatively impacted our production volumes, costs and operating results.
 
    Operating EBITDA was 25.7 million in the second quarter compared to 23.1 million in the 2005 comparative quarter as our scheduled downtime at our pulp mills offset, in part, improvements in pulp markets. For a definition of Operating EBITDA, see page 7 of this press release and for a reconciliation of net income (loss) to Operating EBITDA, see page 10 of the financial tables included in this press release.
 
    We recorded an aggregate net unrealized gain of 50.8 million on our outstanding derivatives and foreign exchange gain on our long-term debt in the second quarter of 2006. In the second quarter of 2005, we had an aggregate net unrealized loss of 79.3 million on our outstanding derivatives and foreign exchange loss on long-term debt.
President’s Comments
    Mr. Jimmy S.H. Lee, President and Chairman, stated: “During the second quarter of 2006:
    Pulp markets were stronger than the last and comparative quarter of 2005. NBSK list prices in Europe improved to $690 per ADMT at the end of the quarter and in Asian markets improved by approximately $20 per ADMT.
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Mercer Reports 2006 Second Quarter Results
  Page 3
  The Stendal mill ramp up is proceeding substantially as scheduled. In the quarter, it operated above its initial rated capacity and, despite testing and related matters, production and sales revenues were up by approximately 13% and 49%, respectively, over the same period of 2005. Further, Stendal mill net realizations also improved as a result of higher pulp prices and increased contract sales in Europe.
 
  During the quarter, we had extensive scheduled downtime at our pulp mills. During this time, the Rosenthal mill installed an additional brownstock washer and the Celgar mill undertook extensive maintenance, with over 1,000 workers involved, which should enhance its operating performance and reliability in the second half of 2006.
 
  Improvements in pulp prices and markets were largely offset by the scheduled downtime at our pulp mills, higher fiber costs at our German pulp mills and the impact of the continuing strength of the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar on our Celgar mill.”
     Mr. Lee continued: “Looking forward, we are seeing improvements in pulp prices and demand in all of our markets which we currently believe should result in further price improvement in the upcoming months. In July 2006, list NBSK prices increased to approximately $710 per tonne in Europe and approximately $650 per tonne in Asia.”
     Mr. Lee concluded: “With the extensive scheduled mill downtime completed, we believe we are well-positioned to realize upon the strengthening NBSK pulp market in the second half of 2006.”
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Mercer Reports 2006 Second Quarter Results
  Page 4
Results of Operations — 2006 Second Quarter
     Selected production and sales data for the three months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005 is as follows:
                 
    Three Months Ended June 30,
    2006   2005
    (ADMTs)
Production by Product Class:
               
Pulp production by mill:
               
Rosenthal
    67,376     81,443
Stendal
    139,715     123,738
Celgar
    100,651     111,071
 
           
Total pulp production
    307,742     316,252
Paper production
    16,427     17,979
 
           
Total production
    324,169     334,231
 
           
 
               
Sales Volume by Product Class:
               
Pulp sales volume by mill:
               
Rosenthal
    73,010     75,996
Stendal
    136,894     102,915
Celgar
    119,361     99,841
 
           
Total pulp sales volume(1)
    329,265     278,752
Paper sales volume
    15,482     17,840
 
             
Total sales volume(1)
    344,747     296,592
 
           
                 
    Three Months Ended June 30,  
    2006     2005  
    (ADMTs)  
    (in thousands)  
Revenues by Product Class:
               
Pulp revenues by mill:
               
Rosenthal
  33,776     31,115  
Stendal
    60,741       40,345  
Celgar
    54,514       40,864  
 
           
Total pulp revenues(1)
    149,031       112,324  
Paper revenues
    16,097       16,097  
 
           
Total pulp and paper sales revenues(1)
    165,128       128,421  
 
           
Third party transportation revenues
    1,577       1,188  
 
           
Total sales revenues
  166,705     129,609  
 
           
 
(1)   Excluding intercompany sales volumes of 4,871 ADMTs and 4,105 ADMTs of pulp and intercompany net sales revenues of approximately 2.3 million and 1.7 million in the three months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively.
     Revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2006 increased to 166.7 million from 129.6 million in the comparative period of 2005, primarily due to higher sales from our Celgar and Stendal pulp mills. Pulp sales by volume increased to 329,265 ADMTs in the second quarter of 2006 from 278,752 ADMTs in the comparative period of 2005.
     Cost of sales and general, administrative and other expenses in the second quarter of 2006 increased to 155.8 million from 120.4 million in the comparative period of 2005, primarily as a result of the inclusion of higher sales from our Celgar and Stendal mills.
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Mercer Reports 2006 Second Quarter Results
  Page 5
     For the second quarter of 2006, revenues from our pulp operations increased to 150.6 million from 113.5 million in the same period a year ago. List prices for NBSK pulp in Europe were approximately 529 ($665) per ADMT in the second quarter of 2006 and 514 ($618) per ADMT in the first quarter of 2006, compared to approximately 487 ($613) per ADMT in the comparative period of last year.
     Mill net pulp sales realizations increased to 453 per ADMT on average in the second quarter of 2006 from 403 per ADMT in the second quarter of 2005, primarily as a result of higher pulp prices.
     During the current quarter, we took an aggregate of approximately 30 days scheduled maintenance and strategic capital expenditure downtime at our pulp mills, including 16 days at our Rosenthal mill and 8 days at our Celgar mill. During this period, our Rosenthal mill completed the installation of an additional brownstock washer at a cost of approximately 9.7 million which is expected to further improve pulp quality and lower chemical and effluent costs. The total maintenance costs associated with such shutdown were approximately 4.3 million and were expensed in the current quarter. Total production volume at our Rosenthal and Celgar mills was down by approximately 24,000 tonnes or 13% in the current quarter of 2006 compared to the same quarter of 2005. The Stendal mill also underwent testing of various departments and converted some production to TCF pulp pursuant to the terms of its EPC contract which curtailed production during such period. This downtime and testing negatively impacted our production volumes, costs and operating results. During the same period of 2005, we had 12 days of down time at our pulp mills.
     Cost of sales and general, administrative and other expenses for the pulp operations increased to 141.3 million in the second quarter of 2006 from 102.9 million in the comparative period of 2005, primarily as a result of the inclusion of higher sales from our Celgar and Stendal mills.
     Fiber costs at our German pulp mills increased by approximately 8% in the second quarter of 2006 versus the same quarter of 2005. This resulted from lower availability because of severe winter conditions in Germany and central Europe, which caused sawmillers and log harvesters to curtail operations and increased competition for fiber primarily from renewable energy operations. The increase in worldwide energy prices has made projects generating energy from renewable sources such as wood residuals more viable in Europe. As a result, there has been increased fiber demand and competition in our fiber base. In the second quarter of 2006, average fiber costs at our Celgar mill decreased by
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Mercer Reports 2006 Second Quarter Results
  Page 6
approximately 23% versus the same quarter of 2005, primarily because of fluctuations in regional woodchip availability.
     In the second quarter of 2006, we recorded a contribution to income from operations of 7.6 million resulting from the sale of emission allowances compared to 6.3 million in the comparative quarter of 2005.
     Depreciation for the pulp operations increased to 14.6 million in the second quarter of 2006, from 13.4 million in the comparative period of 2005, primarily as a result of depreciation associated with the Celgar mill.
     For the second quarter of 2006, our pulp operations generated operating income of 11.5 million, versus operating income of 12.4 million in the comparative quarter of 2005 as scheduled downtime resulted in lower production and weaker performance largely offset improvements in pulp markets and Stendal’s results. As NBSK pulp is generally quoted in U.S. dollars, the overall strength of the Canadian dollar versus the U.S. dollar continued to negatively impact our Celgar mill’s sales realizations and results.
     Revenues from our paper operations were stable at 16.1 million in the current quarter as well as the same quarter of last year.
     Cost of sales and general, administrative and other expenses for the paper operations in the second quarter of 2006 decreased to 15.8 million from 16.9 million in the comparative quarter of 2005.
     For the second quarter of 2006, our paper operations generated operating income of 0.4 million, compared to an operating loss of 0.8 million in the second quarter of 2005.
     In the second quarter of 2006, we had income from operations of 10.9 million, compared to 9.2 million in the same quarter last year. Interest expense in the second quarter of 2006 increased marginally to 23.1 million from 22.2 million in the year ago period, primarily due to higher borrowings relating to the Stendal mill.
     Stendal entered into certain foreign currency derivatives to swap all of its long-term bank indebtedness from Euros to U.S. dollars in 2005 and certain currency forwards. In addition, Stendal
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Mercer Reports 2006 Second Quarter Results
  Page 7
previously entered into interest rate swaps to fix the interest rate on its outstanding bank indebtedness. Due to the weakening of the U.S. dollar versus the Euro and an increase in long-term interest rates, we recorded a net unrealized non-cash holding gain of 44.7 million before minority interests upon the marked to market valuation of such derivatives that were outstanding at the end of the current quarter, compared to a net non-cash holding loss of 69.5 million before minority interests upon the marked to market valuation of our outstanding derivatives in the comparative quarter of 2005.
     In the second quarter of 2006, minority interest, representing the two minority shareholders’ proportionate interest in the Stendal mill, was 0.4 million, compared to 4.9 million in the second quarter of 2005.
     We reported net income for the second quarter of 2006 of 18.4 million, or 0.56 per basic and 0.45 per diluted share, which included an aggregate of 50.8 million of unrealized gains on our outstanding derivatives and a foreign exchange gain on our long-term debt. In the second quarter of 2005, we reported a net loss of 62.2 million, or 1.88 per basic and diluted share, which reflected the net unrealized non-cash holding losses on our currency and interest rate derivatives of 69.5 million and the unrealized non-cash foreign exchange loss on our long-term debt of 9.8 million, partially offset by the non-cash benefit for income taxes of 24.4 million, and interest expense related to our Stendal mill of 14.5 million.
     We generated “Operating EBITDA” of 25.7 million and 23.1 million in the three months ended June 30, 2006 and 2005, respectively. Operating EBITDA is defined as income (loss) from operations plus depreciation and amortization and non-recurring capital asset impairment charges. Management uses Operating EBITDA as a benchmark measurement of its own operating results, and as a benchmark relative to its competitors. Management considers it to be a meaningful supplement to operating income as a performance measure primarily because depreciation expense and non-recurring capital asset impairment charges are not an actual cash cost, and depreciation expense varies widely from company to company in a manner that management considers largely independent of the underlying cost efficiency of their operating facilities. In addition, we believe Operating EBITDA is commonly used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties to evaluate our financial performance.
     Operating EBITDA does not reflect the impact of a number of items that affect our net income (loss), including financing costs and the effect of derivative instruments. Operating EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under GAAP, and should not be considered as an alternative to net
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Mercer Reports 2006 Second Quarter Results
  Page 8
income (loss) or income (loss) from operations as a measure of performance, nor as an alternative to net cash from operating activities as a measure of liquidity. Operating EBITDA has significant limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP. For a reconciliation of net income (loss) to Operating EBITDA, see page 10 of the financial tables included in this press release.
Earnings Release Call
     In conjunction with this release, Mercer International will host a conference call, which will be simultaneously broadcast live over the Internet. Management will host the call, which is scheduled for Wednesday, August 9, 2006 at 10:00 AM EST. Listeners can access the conference call live and archived over the Internet through a link at the company’s web site at http://www.mercerint.com/en/newsCurrent.cfm, or at http://www.videonewswire.com/event.asp?id=35077. Please allow 15 minutes prior to the call to visit the site and download and install any necessary audio software. A replay of this call will be available approximately two hours after the live call ends until August 16, 2006 at 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time). The replay number is (800) 642-1687, and the passcode is 3961912.
     Mercer International Inc. is a global pulp and paper manufacturing company. To obtain further information on the company, please visit its web site at http://www.mercerinternational.com.
     The preceding includes forward looking statements which involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties which may cause the Company’s actual results in future periods to differ materially from forecasted results. Among those factors which could cause actual results to differ materially are the following: market conditions, competition and other risk factors listed from time to time in the company’s SEC reports.
-FINANCIAL TABLES FOLLOW-
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MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
June 30, 2006 and December 31, 2005

(Euros in thousands)
                 
    June 30,     December 31,  
    2006     2005  
ASSETS
               
Current Assets
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  73,079     83,547  
Cash restricted
    5,892       7,039  
Receivables
    87,020       74,315  
Inventories
    69,544       81,147  
Prepaid expenses and other
    6,240       5,474  
 
           
Total current assets
    241,775       251,522  
 
           
Long-Term Assets
               
Cash restricted
    66,537       24,573  
Property, plant and equipment
    1,008,319       1,024,662  
Investments
    7,695       6,314  
Deferred note issuance and other costs
    7,674       8,364  
Deferred income tax
    38,798       78,381  
 
           
 
    1,129,023       1,142,294  
 
           
Total assets
  1,370,798     1,393,816  
 
           
 
               
LIABILITIES
               
Current Liabilities
               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  109,113     112,726  
Debt, current portion
    75,375       27,601  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    184,488       140,327  
 
           
Long-Term Liabilities
               
Debt, less current portion
    898,379       922,619  
Unrealized foreign exchange rate derivative loss
    11,735       61,979  
Unrealized interest rate derivative losses
    42,320       78,646  
Pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations
    16,541       17,113  
Capital leases and other
    9,980       9,945  
Deferred income tax
    17,428       14,444  
 
           
 
    996,383       1,104,746  
 
           
Total liabilities
    1,180,871       1,245,073  
 
           
Minority Interest
           
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Common shares
    181,655       181,586  
Additional paid-in capital, stock options
    87       14  
Deficit
    (12,961 )     (47,970 )
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    21,146       15,113  
 
           
Total shareholders’ equity
    189,927       148,743  
 
           
 
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  1,370,798     1,393,816  
 
           

(1)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005
(Unaudited)

(Euros in thousands, except per share data)
                 
    2006     2005  
Revenues
  325,769     227,502  
 
               
Costs and expenses:
               
Cost of sales
    298,045       210,167  
 
           
 
    27,724       17,335  
General and administrative expenses
    (18,591 )     (15,316 )
Sale (purchase) of emission allowances
    13,246       6,288  
 
           
Income from operations
    22,379       8,307  
 
           
 
               
Other income (expense)
               
Interest expense
    (46,037 )     (41,463 )
Investment income
    3,011       981  
Unrealized foreign exchange gain (loss) on debt
    12,173       (7,509 )
Realized loss on derivative instruments
    (5,219 )     (295 )
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments
    90,724       (73,015 )
Impairment of investments
          (1,645 )
 
           
Total other income (expense)
    54,652       (122,946 )
 
           
 
               
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest
    77,031       (114,639 )
Income tax (provision) benefit
    (42,920 )     21,412  
 
           
Income (loss) before minority interest
    34,111       (93,227 )
Minority interest
    898       11,409  
 
           
Net income (loss)
  35,009     (81,818 )
 
               
(Deficit) retained earnings, beginning of period
    (47,970 )     69,176  
 
           
Deficit, end of period
  (12,961 )   (12,642 )
 
           
 
               
Income (loss) per share
               
Basic
  1.06     (2.80 )
 
           
Diluted
  0.86     (2.80 )
 
           

(2)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005
(Unaudited)

(Euros in thousands, except per share data)
                 
    2006     2005  
Revenues
  166,705     129,609  
 
               
Costs and expenses:
               
Cost of sales
    153,706       119,178  
 
           
 
    12,999       10,431  
General and administrative expenses
    (9,733 )     (7,518 )
Sale (purchase) of emission allowances
    7,608       6,288  
 
           
Income from operations
    10,874       9,201  
 
           
 
               
Other income (expense)
               
Interest expense
    (23,112 )     (22,200 )
Investment income
    1,267       806  
Unrealized foreign exchange gain (loss) on debt
    6,060       (9,806 )
Realized loss on derivative instruments
    (1,657 )      
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments
    46,347       (69,451 )
 
           
Total other income (expense)
    28,905       (100,651 )
 
           
 
               
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest
    39,779       (91,450 )
Income tax (provision) benefit
    (21,807 )     24,447  
 
           
Income (loss) before minority interest
    17,972       (67,003 )
Minority interest
    449       4,852  
 
           
Net income (loss)
  18,421     (62,151 )
 
           
 
               
(Deficit) retained earnings, beginning of period
    (31,382 )     49,509  
 
           
Deficit, end of period
  (12,961 )   (12,642 )
 
           
 
               
Income (loss) per share
               
Basic
  0.56     (1.88 )
 
           
Diluted
  0.45     (1.88 )
 
           

(3)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005

(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                                                         
                                            Corporate,        
    Rosenthal     Celgar     Stendal     Total             Other and     Consolidated  
    Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Paper     Eliminations     Total  
Six Months Ended June 30, 2006
                                                       
Sales to external customers
  68,941     100,811     122,510     292,262     33,507         325,769  
Intersegment net sales
    (152 )     23       4,688       4,559       108       (4,667 )      
 
                                         
 
    68,789       100,834       127,198       296,821       33,615       (4,667 )     325,769  
 
                                         
Operating costs
    49,453       98,702       95,571       243,726       29,971       (4,434 )     269,263  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    7,750       6,291       14,129       28,170       456       156       28,782  
General and administrative
    3,592       4,939       5,940       14,471       2,276       1,844       18,591  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (3,651 )           (9,595 )     (13,246 )                 (13,246 )
 
                                         
 
    57,144       109,932       106,045       273,121       32,703       (2,434 )     303,390  
 
                                         
Income (loss) from operations
    11,645       (9,098 )     21,153       23,700       912       (2,233 )     22,379  
Interest expense
                                                    (46,037 )
Investment income
                                                    3,011  
Derivative financial instruments, net
                                                    85,505  
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
                                                    12,173  
 
                                                     
Income before income taxes and minority interest
                                                  77,031  
 
                                                     
Segment assets
  332,485     237,175     746,557     1,316,217     22,020     32,561     1,370,798  
 
                                         
                                                         
                                            Corporate,        
    Rosenthal     Celgar(1)     Stendal     Total             Other and     Consolidated  
    Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Paper     Eliminations     Total  
Six Months Ended June 30, 2005
                                                       
Sales to external customers
  65,936     48,480     81,606     196,022     31,480         227,502  
Intersegment net sales
                3,340       3,340             (3,340 )      
 
                                         
 
    65,936       48,480       84,946       199,362       31,480       (3,340 )     227,502  
 
                                         
Operating costs
    47,405       40,554       71,546       159,505       29,601       (3,822 )     185,284  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    6,630       4,097       13,454       24,181       379       323       24,883  
General and administrative
    3,810       2,837       1,677       8,324       2,562       4,430       15,316  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (2,135 )           (4,153 )     (6,288 )                 (6,288 )
 
                                         
 
    55,710       47,488       82,524       185,722       32,542       931       219,195  
 
                                         
Income (loss) from operations
    10,226       992       2,422       13,640       (1,062 )     (4,271 )     8,307  
Interest expense
                                                    (41,463 )
Investment income
                                                    981  
Derivative financial instruments, net
                                                    (73,310 )
Unrealized foreign exchange loss on debt
                                                    (7,509 )
Impairment of investments
                                                    (1,645 )
 
                                                     
Loss before income taxes and minority interest
                                                  (114,639 )
 
                                                     
Segment assets
  347,935     244,361     906,244     1,498,540     24,294     15,995     1,538,829  
 
                                         
 
(1)   The results of the Celgar pulp mill are from the date of its acquisition on February 14, 2005.

(4)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
BUSINESS SEGMENT INFORMATION
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005

(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                                                         
                                            Corporate,        
    Rosenthal     Celgar     Stendal     Total             Other and     Consolidated  
    Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Paper     Eliminations     Total  
Three Months Ended June 30, 2006
                                                       
Sales to external customers
  34,269     54,514     61,811     150,594     16,111         166,705  
Intersegment net sales
    (194 )     23       2,373       2,202       108       (2,310 )      
 
                                         
 
    34,075       54,537       64,184       152,796       16,219       (2,310 )     166,705  
 
                                         
Operating costs
    25,466       53,137       47,446       126,049       14,453       (1,664 )     138,838  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    4,213       3,277       7,070       14,560       230       78       14,868  
General and administrative
    2,265       2,815       3,183       8,263       1,135       335       9,733  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (1,884 )           (5,724 )     (7,608 )                 (7,608 )
 
                                         
 
    30,060       59,229       51,975       141,264       15,818       (1,251 )     155,831  
 
                                         
Income (loss) from operations
    4,015       (4,692 )     12,209       11,532       401       (1,059 )     10,874  
Interest expense
                                                    (23,112 )
Investment income
                                                    1,267  
Derivative financial instruments, net
                                                    44,690  
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
                                                    6,060  
 
                                                     
Income before income taxes and minority interest
                                                  39,779  
 
                                                     
                                                         
                                            Corporate,        
    Rosenthal     Celgar     Stendal     Total             Other and     Consolidated  
    Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Pulp     Paper     Eliminations     Total  
 
                                                     
Three Months Ended June 30, 2005
                                                       
Sales to external customers
  31,840     40,864     40,808     113,512     16,097         129,609  
Intersegment net sales
                1,786       1,786             (1,786 )      
 
                                         
 
    31,840       40,864       42,594       115,298       16,097       (1,786 )     129,609  
 
                                         
Operating costs
    22,217       35,419       34,411       92,047       15,370       (2,135 )     105,282  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    3,362       3,274       6,773       13,409       198       289       13,896  
General and administrative
    1,909       1,162       702       3,773       1,326       2,419       7,518  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (2,135 )           (4,153 )     (6,288 )                 (6,288 )
 
                                         
 
    25,353       39,855       37,733       102,941       16,894       573       120,408  
 
                                         
Income (loss) from operations
    6,487       1,009       4,861       12,357       (797 )     (2,359 )     9,201  
Interest expense
                                                    (22,200 )
Investment income
                                                    806  
Derivative financial instruments, net
                                                    (69,451 )
Unrealized foreign exchange loss on debt
                                                    (9,806 )
 
                                                     
Loss before income taxes and minority interest
                                                  (91,450 )
 
                                                     

(5)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Balance Sheet
As at June 30, 2006

(Euros in thousands)
The terms of the indenture governing our 9.25% senior unsecured notes requires that we provide the results of operations and financial condition of Mercer International Inc. excluding its subsidiaries (“Mercer Inc.”) and our restricted subsidiaries under the indenture, collectively referred to as the “Restricted Group”. From February 14, 2005, the Restricted Group includes Mercer Inc., certain holding subsidiaries and Rosenthal, and the Celgar mill. The Restricted Group excludes our paper operations and the Stendal mill.
                                 
    June 30, 2006  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
ASSETS
                               
Current assets
                               
Cash and cash equivalents
  37,018     36,061         73,079  
Cash restricted
          5,892             5,892  
Receivables
    47,468       39,552             87,020  
Inventories
    36,653       32,891             69,544  
Prepaid expenses and other
    3,620       2,620             6,240  
 
                       
Total current assets
    124,759       117,016             241,775  
Cash restricted
          66,537             66,537  
Property, plant and equipment
    400,046       608,273             1,008,319  
Other
    10,048       5,321             15,369  
Deferred income tax
    18,149       20,649             38,798  
Due from unrestricted group
    49,302             (49,302 )      
 
                       
Total assets
  602,304     817,796     (49,302 )   1,370,798  
 
                       
LIABILITIES
                               
Current liabilities
                               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  43,851     65,262         109,113  
Debt, current portion
          75,375             75,375  
 
                       
Total current liabilities
    43,851       140,637             184,488  
Debt, less current portion
    322,732       575,647             898,379  
Due to restricted group
          49,302       (49,302 )      
Unrealized derivative loss
          54,055             54,055  
Other
    21,160       5,361             26,521  
Deferred income tax
    2,379       15,049             17,428  
 
                       
Total liabilities
    390,122       840,051       (49,302 )     1,180,871  
 
                       
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                               
Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)
    212,182       (22,255 )(1)           189,927  
 
                       
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  602,304     817,796     (49,302 )   1,370,798  
 
                       
 
(1)   Shareholders’ equity does not include government grants received or receivable related to the Stendal mill. Shareholders’ equity is impacted by the unrealized non-cash marked to market valuation losses on derivative financial instruments.

(6)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Balance Sheet
As at December 31, 2005

(Euros in thousands)
                                 
    December 31, 2005  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
ASSETS
                               
Current
                               
Cash and cash equivalents
  48,790     34,757         83,547  
Cash restricted
          7,039             7,039  
Receivables
    41,349       32,966             74,315  
Inventories
    47,100       34,047             81,147  
Prepaid expenses and other
    2,940       2,534             5,474  
 
                       
Total current assets
    140,179       111,343             251,522  
Cash restricted
          24,573             24,573  
Property, plant and equipment
    404,151       620,511             1,024,662  
Other
    10,533       4,145             14,678  
Deferred income tax
    24,303       54,078             78,381  
Due from unrestricted group
    46,412             (46,412 )      
 
                       
Total assets
  625,578     814,650     (46,412 )   1,393,816  
 
                       
LIABILITIES
                               
Current
                               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  46,867     64,646         111,513  
Construction costs payable
          1,213             1,213  
Debt, current portion
          27,601             27,601  
 
                       
Total current liabilities
    46,867       93,460             140,327  
Debt, less current portion
    342,023       580,596             922,619  
Due to restricted group
          46,412       (46,412 )      
Unrealized derivative loss
          140,625             140,625  
Other
    20,722       6,336             27,058  
Deferred income tax
    1,851       12,593             14,444  
 
                       
Total liabilities
    411,463       880,022       (46,412 )     1,245,073  
 
                       
 
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                               
Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)
    214,115       (65,372 )(1)           148,743  
 
                       
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  625,578     814,650     (46,412 )   1,393,816  
 
                       
 
(1)   Shareholders’ equity does not include government grants received or receivable related to the Stendal mill. Shareholders’ equity is impacted by the unrealized non-cash marked to market valuation losses on derivative financial instruments.

(7)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Statements of Operations
For the Six Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005

(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                                 
    Six Months Ended June 30, 2006  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  169,623     160,813     (4,667 )   325,769  
 
                       
 
Operating costs
    148,388       125,309       (4,434 )     269,263  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    14,197       14,585             28,782  
General and administrative expenses
    10,375       8,216             18,591  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (3,651 )     (9,595 )           (13,246 )
 
                       
 
    169,309       138,515       (4,434 )     303,390  
 
                       
Income from operations
    314       22,298       (233 )     22,379  
 
                       
 
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (16,442 )     (31,355 )     1,760       (46,037 )
Investment income
    2,119       2,652       (1,760 )     3,011  
Derivative financial instruments, net
          85,505             85,505  
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
    12,173                   12,173  
 
                       
Total other (expense) income
    (2,150 )     56,802             54,652  
 
                       
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest
    (1,836 )     79,100       (233 )     77,031  
Income tax provision
    (6,905 )     (36,015 )           (42,920 )
 
                       
Income (loss) before minority interest
    (8,741 )     43,085       (233 )     34,111  
Minority interest
          898             898  
 
                       
Net income (loss)
  (8,741 )   43,983     (233 )   35,009  
 
                       
                                 
    Six Months Ended June 30, 2005  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  114,416     113,086         227,502  
 
                       
 
Operating costs
    87,260       98,024             185,284  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    10,829       13,616       438       24,883  
General and administrative
    11,077       4,239             15,316  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (2,135 )     (4,153 )           (6,288 )
 
                       
 
    107,031       111,726       438       219,195  
 
                       
Income (loss) from operations
    7,385       1,360       (438 )     8,307  
 
                       
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (15,985 )     (26,571 )     1,093       (41,463 )
Investment income
    1,297       777       (1,093 )     981  
Derivative financial instruments, net
    (463 )     (72,847 )           (73,310 )
Unrealized foreign exchange loss on debt
    (7,509 )                 (7,509 )
Impairment of investments
    (1,645 )                 (1,645 )
 
                       
Total other expense
    (24,305 )     (98,641 )           (122,946 )
 
                       
Loss before income taxes and minority interest
    (16,920 )     (97,281 )     (438 )     (114,639 )
Income tax (provision) benefit
    (4,776 )     26,188             21,412  
 
                       
Loss before minority interest
    (21,696 )     (71,093 )     (438 )     (93,227 )
Minority interest
          11,409             11,409  
 
                       
Net loss
  (21,696 )   (59,684 )   (438 )   (81,818 )
 
                       

(8)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Statements of Operations
For the Three Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005

(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                                 
    Three Months Ended June 30, 2006  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  88,612     80,403     (2,310 )   166,705  
 
                       
 
Operating costs
    79,249       61,253       (1,664 )     138,838  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    7,568       7,300             14,868  
General and administrative expenses
    5,415       4,318             9,733  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (1,884 )     (5,724 )           (7,608 )
 
                       
 
    90,348       67,147       (1,664 )     155,831  
 
                       
Income (loss) from operations
    (1,736 )     13,256       (646 )     10,874  
 
                       
 
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (7,979 )     (16,018 )     885       (23,112 )
Investment income
    (142 )     2,294       (885 )     1,267  
Derivative financial instruments, net
    79       44,611             44,690  
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
    6,060                   6,060  
 
                       
Total other (expense) income
    (1,982 )     30,887             28,905  
 
                       
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest
    (3,718 )     44,143       (646 )     39,779  
Income tax provision
    (3,872 )     (17,935 )           (21,807 )
 
                       
Income (loss) before minority interest
    (7,590 )     26,208       (646 )     17,972  
Minority interest
          449             449  
 
                       
Net income (loss)
  (7,590 )   26,657     (646 )   18,421  
 
                       
                                 
    Three Months Ended June 30, 2005  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  72,704     56,905         129,609  
 
                       
 
Operating costs
    57,287       47,995             105,282  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    6,704       6,971       221       13,896  
General and administrative
    5,490       2,028             7,518  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (2,135 )     (4,153 )           (6,288 )
 
                       
 
    67,346       52,841       221       120,408  
 
                       
Income from operations
    5,358       4,064       (221 )     9,201  
 
                       
Other income (expense) Interest expense
    (8,314 )     (14,585 )     699       (22,200 )
Investment income
    970       467       (631 )     806  
Derivative financial instruments, net
    (358 )     (69,093 )           (69,451 )
Unrealized foreign exchange loss on debt
    (9,806 )                 (9,806 )
Impairment of investments
    (467 )           467        
 
                       
Total other income (expense)
    (17,975 )     (83,211 )     535       (100,651 )
 
                       
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest
    (12,617 )     (79,147 )     314       (91,450 )
Income tax (provision) benefit
    (1,661 )     26,108             24,447  
 
                       
Income (loss) before minority interest
    (14,278 )     (53,039 )     314       (67,003 )
Minority interest
          4,852             4,852  
 
                       
Net income (loss)
  (14,278 )   (48,187 )   314     (62,151 )
 
                       

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MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
COMPUTATION OF OPERATING EBITDA
For the Six Months and Three Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005

(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                 
    Six Months Ended  
    June 30,  
    2006     2005(1)  
    (in thousands)  
Net income (loss)
  35,009     (81,818 )
Minority interest
    (898 )     (11,409 )
Income taxes (benefit)
    42,920       (21,412 )
Interest expense
    46,037       41,463  
Investment income
    (3,011 )     (981 )
Derivative financial instruments, net (gain) loss
    (85,505 )     73,310  
Foreign exchange (gain) loss on debt
    (12,173 )     7,509  
Impairment of investments
          1,645  
 
           
Income from operations
    22,379       8,307  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    28,782       24,883  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(2)
  51,161     33,190  
 
           
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    June 30,  
    2006     2005(1)  
    (in thousands)  
Net income (loss)
  18,421     (62,151 )
Minority interest
    (449 )     (4,852 )
Income taxes (benefit)
    21,807       (24,447 )
Interest expense
    23,112       22,200  
Investment income
    (1,267 )     (806 )
Derivative financial instruments, net (gain) loss
    (44,690 )     69,451  
Foreign exchange (gain) loss on debt
    (6,060 )     9,806  
 
           
Income from operations
    10,874       9,201  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    14,868       13,896  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(2)
  25,742     23,097  
 
           
 
(1)   The results of the Celgar pulp mill are included from the date of its acquisition on February 14, 2005.
 
(2)   Operating EBITDA does not reflect the impact of a number of items that affect our net income (loss), including financing costs and the effect of derivative instruments. Operating EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and should not be considered as an alternative to net income (loss) or income (loss) from operations as a measure of performance, nor as an alternative to net cash from operating activities as a measure of liquidity. Operating EBITDA has significant limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP.

(10)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
COMPUTATION OF RESTRICTED GROUP OPERATING EBITDA
For the Six and Three Months Ended June 30, 2006 and 2005

(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                 
    Six Months Ended  
    June 30,  
    2006     2005(1)  
    (in thousands)  
Restricted Group
               
Net loss
  (8,741 )   (21,696 )
Income taxes
    6,905       4,776  
Interest expense
    16,442       15,985  
Investment and other income
    (2,119 )     (1,297 )
Derivative financial instruments, net loss
          463  
Foreign exchange gain on debt
    (12,173 )     7,509  
Impairment of investments
          1,645  
 
           
Income from operations
    314       7,385  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    14,197       10,829  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(2)
  14,511     18,214  
 
           
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    June 30,  
    2006     2005(1)  
    (in thousands)  
Restricted Group
               
Net loss
  (7,590 )   (14,278 )
Income taxes
    3,872       1,661  
Interest expense
    7,979       8,314  
Investment and other income
    142       (970 )
Derivative financial instruments, net loss
    (79 )     358  
Foreign exchange gain on debt
    (6,060 )     9,806  
Impairment of investments
          467  
 
           
(Loss) income from operations
    (1,736 )     5,358  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    7,568       6,704  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(2)
  5,832     12,062  
 
           
 
(1)   The results of the Celgar pulp mill are included from the date of its acquisition on February 14, 2005.
 
(2)   Operating EBITDA does not reflect the impact of a number of items that affect net income (loss), including financing costs and the effect of derivative instruments. Operating EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, and should not be considered as an alternative to net income (loss) or income (loss) from operations as a measure of performance, nor as an alternative to net cash from operating activities as a measure of liquidity. Operating EBITDA has significant limitations as an analytical tool, and should not be considered in isolation, or as a substitute for analysis of our results as reported under GAAP.
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