EX-99.1 2 o39386exv99w1.htm PRESS RELEASE DATED FEBRUARY 13, 2008 Press Release Dated February 13, 2008
 

EXHIBIT 99.1
(MERCER LOGO)
For Immediate Release
MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC. REPORTS RECORD PRODUCTION AND
2007 FOURTH QUARTER AND YEAR END RESULTS
     NEW YORK, NY, February 13, 2008 — Mercer International Inc. (Nasdaq: MERC, TSX: MRI.U) today reported results for the fourth quarter and year ended December 31, 2007. In 2006, we divested our paper mills and its results are reported separately as discontinued operations.
     The quarter ended December 31, 2007 concluded our best year operationally. As a result of capital and other initiatives, all three of our mills had record annual production and two of the mills set quarterly production records in the fourth quarter. While demand for NBSK pulp was strong throughout the year, price increases were more than offset by the weakening U.S. dollar and higher fiber costs.
Highlights of the 2007 Fourth Quarter
    Revenues increased by 4% to 167.1 million from 160.5 million in the comparative quarter of 2006, primarily as a result of higher pulp prices. Average NBSK pulp list prices in Europe rose to $850 per ADMT in the quarter from $810 per ADMT in the prior quarter and $730 per ADMT in the fourth quarter of 2006.
 
    Our average pulp sales realizations were 512 per ADMT in the fourth quarter of 2007 compared to 520 per ADMT in the third quarter of 2007, as higher prices were more than offset by the weakening U.S. dollar. Average sales realizations in the fourth quarter of 2006 were 480 per ADMT. During the fourth quarter of 2007, the U.S. dollar was weaker relative to both the Euro and Canadian dollar, falling in value by 5% and 6%, respectively, compared to the third quarter of 2007 and 11% and 14% from the fourth quarter of 2006.
 
    Fiber prices, on average, were relatively unchanged from the third quarter but were approximately 10% higher than the fourth quarter of 2006.
 
    Operating EBITDA in the current quarter decreased to 37.2 million from 50.2 million in the comparative quarter in 2006 as higher productivity and improved prices were more than

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    offset by higher fiber costs and the weakening U.S. dollar. For a definition of Operating EBITDA, see page 6 of this press release, and for a reconciliation of net income from continuing operations to Operating EBITDA, see page 7 of the financial tables included in this press release.
 
    Net income was 7.2 million, or 0.20 per basic and 0.18 per diluted share, in the current quarter which included unrealized gains on our derivatives and foreign currency denominated long-term debt of 5.1 million, compared to net income of 21.5 million, or 0.63 per basic and 0.50 per diluted share, in the same period of 2006 which included gains on our derivatives and foreign currency denominated long-term debt of 38.6 million.
Highlights of 2007
    Revenues in 2007 increased by approximately 13% to 704.4 million from 624.0 million in 2006, primarily as a result of higher pulp prices and increased sales volumes. Average list prices for NBSK pulp in Europe increased to $800 per ADMT in 2007 from $680 per ADMT in 2006.
    Our average pulp sales realizations increased to 516 per ADMT in 2007 from 465 per ADMT in 2006 as higher pulp prices were partially offset by the weakening U.S. dollar. In 2007, the U.S. dollar decreased in value by approximately 8% and 5% against the Euro and the Canadian dollar, respectively, compared to 2006.
    On average, fiber costs increased by approximately 29% in 2007 from 2006.
    Operating EBITDA decreased by 15% to 126.2 million in 2007 from 148.3 million in 2006 as improved pricing, sales and productivity were more than offset by the weakening U.S. dollar and higher fiber costs. For a definition of Operating EBITDA, see page 6 of this press release and for a reconciliation of net income to Operating EBITDA, see page 7 of the financial tables included in this press release.
    Net income decreased to 22.2 million, or 0.61 per basic and 0.58 per diluted share, in 2007, which included gains on our derivatives and foreign currency denominated long-term debt of 31.3 million, compared to net income of 63.2 million, or 1.90 per basic and 1.58 per diluted share, in 2006, which included a net gain on our derivatives and foreign currency denominated long-term debt of 121.1 million.

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President’s Comments
     Mr. Jimmy S.H. Lee, President and Chairman, stated: “We are generally pleased with our operating performance during the year. Our record production reflected both capital projects initiated two years ago and our continual management focus on productivity and efficiency.” He added:
    “All three mills achieved record production in the year and two of the mills achieved quarterly records in the fourth quarter. Focused capital expenditures and other measures at our mills are complete and their efficiency benefits have met our expectations.
    Pulp markets continued to strengthen in the final quarter of 2007, ending a year of continual price increases resulting from both strong demand and a weakening U.S. dollar. Based upon the current demand levels we are seeing in the market and historically low inventory levels, we believe that there will be continued upward pressure on pricing into the first part of 2008.
    After rising in the first half of 2007, prices for fiber were relatively stable in the second half. We currently expect that the sharp deterioration in North American and European lumber markets will continue to constrain residual fiber supply in 2008, particularly in British Columbia. We believe however that demand for fiber from other manufacturers in Europe has begun to decline and this may have a dampening effect on European pricing pressure created by the weak lumber markets.
    During the year, energy production was a considerable focus area for us. In 2007, we sold more surplus energy than at any time in our history by increasing the value of our sales of surplus power by approximately 9% compared to 2006. We are pursuing several initiatives to try to enhance this core strength in 2008.”
     Mr. Lee concluded: “With our mills running at historically high levels, we are well positioned to take advantage of the NBSK pulp price momentum and stabilizing fiber prices in 2008, although further weakness in the U.S. dollar will adversely impact our sales realizations and margins.”

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Summary Selected Highlights
                                         
    Q4     Q3     Q4     Year     Year  
    2007     2007     2006     2007     2006  
    (in millions of Euro, except where otherwise stated)  
Revenues
  167.1     191.1     160.5     704.4     624.0  
Operating income from continuing operations
    22.7       21.5       36.2       69.6       92.5  
Operating EBITDA(1)
    37.2       35.8       50.2       126.2       148.3  
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments
    1.4       (5.7 )     33.1       13.5       109.4  
Interest expense
    15.1       18.6       23.2       71.4       91.9  
Foreign exchange gain on debt and distributions.
    3.7       4.6       3.8       11.0       15.2  
Net income from continuing operations
    7.3       10.7       28.6       22.4       69.2  
Net income per share from continuing operations
                                       
Basic
  0.20     0.30     0.85     0.62     2.08  
Diluted
  0.18     0.26     0.66     0.58     1.72  
 
(1)   For a definition of Operating EBITDA, see page 6 of this press release and for a reconciliation of net income (loss) to Operating EBITDA, see page 7 of the financial tables included in this press release.
                                         
    Q4     Q3     Q4     Year     Year  
    2007     2007     2006     2007     2006  
Pulp Production (‘000 ADMTs)
    370.1       361.0       328.9       1,404.7       1,302.3  
Pulp Sales (‘000 ADMTs)
    322.9       363.5       344.4       1,352.6       1,326.4  
NBSK pulp list price in Europe (US$/ADMT)
    850       810       730       800       680  
Average pulp sales realizations (/ADMT).
    512       520       480       516       465  
Average Spot Currency Exchange Rates:
                                       
/ $(1)
    0.6901       0.7268       0.7750       0.7294       0.7962  
C$ / $(1)
    0.9818       1.0446       1.1393       1.0740       1.1344  
C$ / (2)
    1.4230       1.4367       1.4706       1.4690       1.4244  
 
(1)   Average Federal Reserve Bank of New York noon spot rate over the reporting period.
(2)   Average Bank of Canada noon spot rate over the reporting period.
Three Months Ended December 31, 2007 Compared to Three Months Ended December 31, 2006
     Revenues for the three months ended December 31, 2007 increased by 4% to 167.1 million from 160.5 million in the comparative period of 2006, primarily due to higher pulp prices, partially offset by an 11% and 14% weakening of the U.S. dollar versus the Euro and the Canadian dollar, respectively. List prices for NBSK pulp in Europe were approximately 587 ($850) per ADMT in the fourth quarter of 2007, 589 ($810) per ADMT in the third quarter of 2007 and approximately 566 ($730) per ADMT in the same period last year. Pulp sales volume decreased to 322,900 ADMTs in the fourth quarter of 2007 from 344,400 ADMTs in the comparative period of 2006. Average pulp sales realizations increased to 512 per ADMT in the fourth quarter of 2007 from 480 per ADMT in the fourth quarter of 2006, primarily as a result of higher pulp prices.
     Costs and expenses in the fourth quarter of 2007 increased to 144.4 million from 124.3 million in the comparative period of 2006, primarily as a result of higher fiber costs and a credit in 2006 of 13.0 million for previously accrued wastewater fees.

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     Sales of emission allowances provided a contribution to income of 3.9 million and 2.4 million in the fourth quarter of 2007 and 2006, respectively.
     After rising during the first half of 2007, fiber prices stabilized in the fourth quarter of 2007, but remained on average at elevated levels when compared to the same period a year ago. Our fiber costs in Germany in the fourth quarter of 2007 and 2006 were virtually unchanged. Fiber costs for our Celgar mill however were more heavily impacted by the weak North American housing markets and have experienced significant inflation. On average, our fiber costs increased by approximately 10% in the last quarter of 2007 from the same period of 2006. While pulp wood supply is generally available, the deterioration of the housing and lumber markets in North America is reducing sawmilling activity and residual chip supply which is expected to keep fiber costs at relatively high levels.
     For the fourth quarter of 2007, operating income from continuing operations decreased by approximately 37% to 22.7 million from 36.2 million in the comparative quarter of 2006, as higher pulp prices and improved production were more than offset by exchange rates and higher fiber costs.
     Interest expense in the fourth quarter of 2007 decreased to 15.1 million from 23.2 million in the comparative quarter of 2006, primarily due to a lower level of borrowing and the absence of premiums associated with our cross-currency swaps which were settled in the first quarter of 2007.
     We recorded unrealized gains of 5.1 million on our interest rate derivatives and foreign currency denominated debt at the end of the current quarter as a result of an increase in long-term interest rates and the weaker U.S. dollar, compared to gains of 38.6 million on our derivatives and foreign currency denominated debt in the same quarter of last year, of which a 1.7 million gain was realized upon the settlement of foreign currency swaps.
     In the fourth quarter of 2007, minority interest, representing the minority shareholder’s interest in the Stendal mill, was 0.5 million, compared to 7.9 million in the same quarter of last year.

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     We generated “Operating EBITDA” of 37.2 million and 50.2 million in the three months ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. Operating EBITDA is defined as operating income (loss) from continuing 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, 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 income or income 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 to Operating EBITDA, see page 7 of the financial tables included in this press release.
     We reported net income from continuing operations for the fourth quarter of 2007 of 7.3 million, or 0.20 per basic and 0.18 per diluted share, as compared to net income from continuing operations of 28.6 million, or 0.85 per basic and 0.66 per diluted share in the fourth quarter of 2006.
     In the fourth quarter of 2007, net income was 7.2 million, or 0.20 per basic and 0.18 per diluted share. In the same quarter in 2006, net income was 21.5 million, or 0.63 per basic and 0.50 per diluted share.
Year Ended December 31, 2007 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2006
     Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2007 increased by approximately 13% to 704.4 million from 624.0 million in 2006, primarily as a result of higher pulp prices which were partially offset by an 8% and 5% weakening of the U.S. dollar versus the Euro and the Canadian dollar, respectively. List prices for NBSK pulp in Europe were approximately 584 ($800) per ADMT in 2007, compared to approximately 541 ($680) per ADMT in 2006. Average pulp sales realizations increased to 516 per ADMT in the year ended December 31, 2007, from 465 per ADMT in 2006, primarily as a result of higher pulp prices.

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     Costs and expenses increased to 634.8 million in 2007 from 531.5 million in 2006, primarily as a result of higher fiber costs and higher volumes.
     Weak markets for emission allowances in 2007 resulted in the contribution to income from such sales decreasing to 4.6 million, compared to 15.6 million in 2006. Partially offsetting this was a 9% increase in sales of surplus energy in 2007 compared to 2006.
     Overall fiber costs increased by approximately 29% compared to 2006 as a result of both a supply imbalance and increased demand. In Germany, the supply imbalance resulted from low harvesting levels in late 2005 and 2006 which were not made up during the course of the year. Increased demand in Germany resulted from a higher consumption of wood residuals by renewable energy suppliers. A strong European lumber market and the severe winter storm at the beginning of 2007 provided some marginal price relief in the latter part of the year. Fiber costs at our Celgar mill were also higher in 2007 compared to 2006 due to reduced North American sawmill activity as a result of weakness in U.S. housing construction. Fiber costs at our Celgar mill were relatively stable over the last half of 2007, due to supply optimization and the currency impact on the mill’s U.S. sourced fiber.
     In 2007, operating income from continuing operations decreased to 69.6 million from 92.5 million in 2006 as higher pulp prices, sale volumes and surplus energy sales were more than offset by higher fiber costs, the weakening U.S. dollar and the reduction in sales of emission allowances.
     Interest expense in 2007 decreased to 71.4 million from 91.9 million in the comparative period, primarily due to a lower level of borrowing and the absence of premiums associated with our cross-currency swaps which were settled in the first quarter of 2007.
     We recorded gains of 31.3 million on our derivatives and foreign currency denominated long-term debt for the year ended December 31, 2007 as a result of an increase in long-term interest rates and the weaker U.S. dollar, and realized a 6.8 million gain upon the settlement of foreign currency swaps. In 2006, we recorded a net gain of 121.1 million on our derivatives and foreign currency denominated long-term debt, of which a 3.5 million loss was realized upon the settlement of foreign currency swaps.
     In 2007, minority interest, representing the minority shareholder’s proportionate interest in the Stendal mill, was 1.3 million of the current year earnings, compared to 1.1 million in 2006.

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Net Income Per Share and Operating EBITDA
     We generated “Operating EBITDA” of 126.2 million and 148.3 million in the year ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, respectively. For a definition of Operating EBITDA, see page 6 of this press release and for a reconciliation of net income to Operating EBITDA, see page 7 of the financial tables included in this press release.
     We reported net income from continuing operations for the year ended December 31, 2007 of 22.4 million, or 0.62 per basic and 0.58 per diluted share, as compared to net income from continuing operations of 69.2 million, or 2.08 per basic and 1.72 per diluted share in 2006.
     In 2007, net income was 22.2 million, or 0.61 per basic and 0.58 per diluted share. In 2006, net income was 63.2 million, or 1.90 per basic and 1.58 per diluted share.
Earnings Release Call
     In conjunction with this release, Mercer International Inc. will host a conference call, which will be simultaneously broadcast live over the Internet. Management will host the call, which is scheduled for Thursday, February 14, 2008 at 10:00 AM EST. Listeners can access the conference call live and archived through March 14, 2008, 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=45063. 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 February 21, 2008 at 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Standard Time). The replay number is (800) 642-1687 for domestic callers or (706) 645-9291 for international callers, and the passcode is 30961639.
     Mercer International Inc. is a global pulp manufacturing company. To obtain further information on the company, please visit its web site at http://www.mercerint.com.

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     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.
     
APPROVED BY:

Jimmy S.H. Lee
Chairman & President
(604) 684-1099
  Financial Dynamics
Investors: Eric Boyriven, Alexandra Tramont
Media: Scot Hoffman
(212) 850-5600

David M. Gandossi
Executive Vice-President &
Chief Financial Officer
(604) 684-1099
   
-FINANCIAL TABLES FOLLOW-

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MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(Euros in thousands)
                 
    December 31,  
    2007     2006  
ASSETS
               
Current Assets
               
Cash and cash equivalents
  84,848     69,367  
Receivables
    89,890       75,022  
Note receivable, current portion
    5,896       7,798  
Inventories
    103,610       62,857  
Prepaid expenses and other
    6,015       4,662  
Current assets of discontinued operations
          2,094  
 
           
Total current assets
    290,259       221,800  
 
           
Long-Term Assets
               
Cash restricted
    33,000       57,000  
Property, plant and equipment
    933,258       972,143  
Investments
    96       1  
Unrealized foreign exchange rate derivative gain
          5,933  
Deferred note issuance and other costs
    5,303       6,984  
Deferred income tax
    17,624       29,989  
Note receivable, less current portion
    3,977       8,744  
 
           
 
    993,258       1,080,794  
 
           
Total assets
  1,283,517     1,302,594  
 
           
 
               
LIABILITIES
               
Current Liabilities
               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  87,000     83,810  
Pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations, current portion
    493       363  
Debt, current portion
    34,023       33,903  
Current liabilities of discontinued operations
          1,926  
 
           
Total current liabilities
    121,516       120,002  
 
           
Long-Term Liabilities
               
Debt, less current portion
    815,832       873,928  
Unrealized interest rate derivative losses
    21,885       41,355  
Pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations
    19,983       17,954  
Capital leases and other
    8,999       7,643  
Deferred income tax
    18,640       22,911  
 
           
 
    885,339       963,791  
 
           
Total liabilities
    1,006,855       1,083,793  
 
           
 
               
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
               
Common shares
    202,844       195,642  
Additional paid-in capital
    134       154  
Retained earnings
    37,419       15,240  
Accumulated other comprehensive income
    36,265       7,765  
 
           
Total shareholders’ equity
    276,662       218,801  
 
           
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  1,283,517     1,302,594  
 
           

(1)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(Euros in thousands, except for income per share)
                                 
    Three Months Ended     Year Ended  
    December 31,     December 31,  
    2007     2006     2007     2006  
Revenues
  167,146     160,467     704,391     623,977  
 
                               
Costs and expenses
                               
Operating costs
    124,506       104,012       548,334       456,604  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    14,397       14,044       56,400       55,834  
 
                       
 
    28,243       42,411       99,657       111,539  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    9,411       8,605       34,714       34,644  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (3,877 )     (2,363 )     (4,643 )     (15,609 )
 
                       
Operating income from continuing operations
    22,709       36,169       69,586       92,504  
 
                       
 
                               
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (15,092 )     (23,162 )     (71,400 )     (91,931 )
Investment income
    (1,533 )     2,007       4,453       6,090  
Foreign exchange gain on debt and distributions
    3,729       3,776       10,958       15,245  
Realized gain (loss) on derivative instruments
          1,709       6,820       (3,510 )
Unrealized gain on derivative instruments
    1,381       33,107       13,537       109,358  
 
                       
Total other (expense) income
    (11,515 )     17,437       (35,632 )     (35,252 )
 
                       
 
                               
Income before income taxes and minority interest from continuing operations
    11,194       53,606       33,954       127,756  
Income tax benefit (provision)
                               
Current
    (1,293 )     (60 )     (2,170 )     (584 )
Deferred
    (2,185 )     (16,995 )     (8,144 )     (56,859 )
 
                       
Income before minority interest from continuing operations
    7,716       36,551       23,640       70,313  
Minority interest
    (466 )     (7,945 )     (1,251 )     (1,071 )
 
                       
Net income from continuing operations
    7,250       28,606       22,389       69,242  
Net (loss) from discontinued operations
    (12 )     (7,133 )     (210 )     (6,032 )
 
                       
Net income
    7,238       21,473       22,179       63,210  
 
                               
Retained earnings (deficit), beginning of period
    30,181       (6,233 )     15,240       (47,970 )
 
                       
Retained earnings, end of period
  37,419     15,240     37,419     15,240  
 
                       
 
                               
Net income per share from continuing operations
                               
Basic
  0.20     0.85     0.62     2.08  
 
                       
Diluted
  0.18     0.66     0.58     1.72  
 
                       
Net income per share
                               
Basic
  0.20     0.63     0.61     1.90  
 
                       
Diluted
  0.18     0.50     0.58     1.58  
 
                       

(2)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Balance Sheet
(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. and our restricted subsidiaries under the indenture, collectively referred to as the “Restricted Group”. As at and during the three months and years ended December 31, 2007 and 2006, the Restricted Group was comprised of Mercer International Inc., certain holding subsidiaries and our Rosenthal and Celgar mills. The Restricted Group excludes the Stendal mill and up to December 31, 2006 the discontinued paper operations.
                                 
    December 31, 2007  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
ASSETS
                               
Current
                               
Cash and cash equivalents
  59,371     25,477         84,848  
Receivables
    37,482       52,408             89,890  
Note receivable, current portion
    589       5,307             5,896  
Inventories
    63,444       40,166             103,610  
Prepaid expenses and other
    3,714       2,301             6,015  
 
                       
Total current assets
    164,600       125,659             290,259  
Cash restricted
          33,000             33,000  
Property, plant and equipment
    385,569       547,689             933,258  
Other
    5,399                   5,399  
Deferred income tax
    10,852       6,772             17,624  
Due from unrestricted group
    57,457             (57,457 )      
Note receivable, less current portion
    3,977                   3,977  
 
                       
Total assets
  627,854     713,120     (57,457 )   1,283,517  
 
                       
 
                               
LIABILITIES
                               
Current
                               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  43,621     43,379         87,000  
Pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations, current portion
    493                   493  
Debt, current portion
          34,023             34,023  
 
                       
Total current liabilities
    44,114       77,402             121,516  
Debt, less current portion
    273,589       542,243             815,832  
Due to restricted group
          57,457       (57,457 )      
Unrealized derivative loss
          21,885             21,885  
Capital leases and other
    27,016       1,966             28,982  
Deferred income tax
    4,553       14,087             18,640  
 
                       
Total liabilities
    349,272       715,040       (57,457 )     1,006,855  
 
                       
 
                               
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                               
Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)
    278,582       (1,920 )           276,662  
 
                       
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  627,854     713,120     (57,457 )   1,283,517  
 
                       

(3)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Balance Sheet
(Euros in thousands)
                                 
    December 31, 2006  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
ASSETS
                               
Current
                               
Cash and cash equivalents
  39,078     30,289         69,367  
Receivables
    38,662       36,360             75,022  
Note receivable, current portion
    620       7,178             7,798  
Inventories
    41,087       21,770             62,857  
Prepaid expenses and other
    2,352       2,310             4,662  
Current assets from discontinued operations
          2,094             2,094  
 
                       
Total current assets
    121,799       100,001             221,800  
Cash restricted
          57,000             57,000  
Property, plant and equipment
    408,957       563,186             972,143  
Other
    8,155       4,763             12,918  
Deferred income tax
    14,316       15,673             29,989  
Due from unrestricted group
    51,265             (51,265 )      
Note receivable, less current portion
    5,023       3,721             8,744  
 
                       
Total assets
  609,515     744,344     (51,265 )   1,302,594  
 
                       
 
                               
LIABILITIES
                               
Current
                               
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
  46,475     37,335         83,810  
Pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations, current portion
    363                   363  
Debt, current portion
          33,903             33,903  
Current liabilities from discontinued operations
          1,926             1,926  
 
                       
Total current liabilities
    46,838       73,164             120,002  
Debt, less current portion
    293,781       571,840             865,621  
Due to restricted group
          51,265       (51,265 )      
Unrealized derivative loss
          41,355             41,355  
Capital leases and other
    22,115       11,789             33,904  
Deferred income tax
    2,832       20,079             22,911  
 
                       
Total liabilities
    365,566       769,492       (51,265 )     1,083,793  
 
                       
 
                               
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
                               
Total shareholders’ equity (deficit)
    243,949       (25,148 )           218,801  
 
                       
Total liabilities and shareholders’ equity
  609,515     744,344     (51,265 )   1,302,594  
 
                       

(4)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Statements of Operations
(Euros in thousands)
                                 
    Three Months Ended December 31, 2007  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  90,481     76,665         167,146  
 
                       
 
                               
Operating costs
    70,547       53,959             124,506  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    7,581       6,816             14,397  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    6,336       3,075             9,411  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (1,302 )     (2,575 )           (3,877 )
 
                       
Operating income from continuing operations
    7,319       15,390             22,709  
 
                       
 
                               
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (7,058 )     (8,981 )     947       (15,092 )
Investment income
    1,542       (2,128 )     (947 )     (1,533 )
Foreign exchange gain on debt and distributions
    3,821       (92 )           3,729  
Derivative financial instruments, net
          1,381             1,381  
 
                       
Total other (expense) income
    (1,695 )     (9,820 )           (11,515 )
 
                       
Income before income taxes and minority interest from continuing operations
    5,624       5,570             11,194  
Income tax provision
                               
Current
    (925 )     (368 )           (1,293 )
Deferred
    (570 )     (1,615 )           (2,185 )
 
                       
Income before minority interest from continuing operations
    4,129       3,587             7,716  
Minority interest
          (466 )           (466 )
 
                       
Net income from continuing operations
  4,129     3,121         7,250  
Net loss from discontinued operations
  (12 )   -         (12 )
 
                       
Net income
  4,117     3,121         7,238  
 
                       
                                 
    Three Months Ended December 31, 2006  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  95,456     65,151     (140 )   160,467  
 
                       
 
                               
Operating costs
    70,738       32,704             103,442  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    7,239       6,807             14,046  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    5,203       3,970             9,173  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (1,282 )     (1,081 )           (2,363 )
 
                       
Operating income from continuing operations
    13,558       22,751       (140 )     36,169  
 
                       
 
                               
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (9,752 )     (14,315 )     905       (23,162 )
Investment income
    2,056       856       (905 )     2,007  
Foreign exchange gain on debt and distributions
    3,776                   3,776  
Derivative financial instruments, net
          34,816             34,816  
 
                       
Total other (expense) income
    (3,920 )     21,357             17,437  
 
                       
Income (loss) before income taxes and minority interest from continuing operations
    9,638       44,108       (140 )     53,606  
Income tax provision
                               
Current
    32       (92 )           (60 )
Deferred
    (3,004 )     (13,991 )           (16,995 )
 
                       
Income (loss) before minority interest from continuing operations
    6,666       30,025       (140 )     36,551  
Minority interest
          (7,945 )           (7,945 )
 
                       
Net income (loss) from continuing operations
  6,666     22,080     (140 )   28,606  
Net loss from discontinued operations
      (7,133 )       (7,133 )
 
                       
Net income (loss)
  6,666     14,947     (140 )   21,473  
 
                       

(5)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
RESTRICTED GROUP SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE
Combined Condensed Statements of Operations
(Euros in thousands)
                                 
    Year Ended December 31, 2007  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  401,251     303,140         704,391  
 
                       
 
                               
Operating costs
    315,836       232,498             548,334  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    28,661       27,739             56,400  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    21,650       13,064             34,714  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (1,566 )     (3,077 )           (4,643 )
 
                       
Operating income from continuing operations
    36,670       32,916             69,586  
 
                       
 
                               
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (28,472 )     (46,653 )     3,725       (71,400 )
Investment income
    5,303       2,875       (3,725 )     4,453  
Foreign exchange gain on debt and distributions
    10,629       329             10,958  
Derivative financial instruments, net
          20,357             20,357  
 
                       
Total other (expense) income
    (12,540 )     (23,092 )           (35,632 )
 
                       
Income before income taxes and minority interest from continuing operations
    24,130       9,824             33,954  
Income tax provision
                               
Current
    (1,394 )     (776 )           (2,170 )
Deferred
    (5,034 )     (3,110 )           (8,144 )
 
                       
Income before minority interest from continuing operations
    17,702       5,938             23,640  
Minority interest
          (1,251 )           (1,251 )
 
                       
Net income from continuing operations
  17,702     4,687         22,389  
Net loss from discontinued operations
  (210 )   -         (210 )
 
                       
Net income
  17,492     4,687         22,179  
 
                       
                                 
    Year Ended December 31, 2006  
    Restricted     Unrestricted             Consolidated  
    Group     Subsidiaries     Eliminations     Group  
Revenues
  360,986     262,991         623,977  
 
                       
 
                               
Operating costs
    280,837       175,767             456,604  
Operating depreciation and amortization
    27,819       28,015             55,834  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    22,861       11,783             34,644  
(Sale) purchase of emission allowances
    (4,933 )     (10,676 )           (15,609 )
 
                       
Operating income from continuing operations
    34,402       58,102             92,504  
 
                       
 
                               
Other income (expense)
                               
Interest expense
    (34,354 )     (61,137 )     3,560       (91,931 )
Investment income
    5,316       4,334       (3,560 )     6,090  
Derivative financial instruments, net
          105,848             105,848  
Foreign exchange gain on debt and distributions
    15,245                   15,245  
 
                       
Total other (expense) income
    (13,793 )     49,045             35,252  
 
                       
Income before income taxes and minority interest from continuing operations.
    20,609       107,147             127,756  
Income tax provision
                               
Current
    (290 )     (294 )           (584 )
Deferred
    (10,968 )     (45,891 )           (56,859 )
 
                       
Income before minority interest from continuing operations
    9,351       60,962             70,313  
Minority interest
          (1,071 )           (1,071 )
 
                       
Net income from continuing operations
  9,351     59,891         69,242  
Net loss from discontinued operations
      (6,032 )       (6,032 )
 
                       
Net income
  9,351     53,859         63,210  
 
                       

(6)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
COMPUTATION OF OPERATING EBITDA
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    December 31,  
    2007     2006  
Net income from continuing operations
  7,250     28,606  
Minority interest
    466       7,945  
Income taxes
    3,478       17,055  
Interest expense
    15,092       23,162  
Investment expense (income)
    1,533       (2,007 )
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
    (3,729 )     (3,776 )
Derivative financial instruments, net gain.
    (1,381 )     (34,816 )
 
           
Operating income from continuing operations
    22,709       36,169  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    14,461       14,044  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(1)
  37,170     50,213  
 
           
                 
    Year Ended  
    December 31,  
    2007     2006  
Net income from continuing operations
  22,389     69,242  
Minority interest
    1,251       1,071  
Income taxes
    10,314       57,443  
Interest expense
    71,400       91,931  
Investment income
    (4,453 )     (6,090 )
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
    (10,958 )     (15,245 )
Derivative financial instruments, net gain.
    (20,357 )     (105,848 )
 
           
Operating income from continuing operations
    69,586       92,504  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    56,658       55,834  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(1)
  126,244     148,338  
 
           
 
(1)   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.

(7)


 

MERCER INTERNATIONAL INC.
COMPUTATION OF RESTRICTED GROUP OPERATING EBITDA
(Unaudited)
(Euros in thousands)
                 
    Three Months Ended  
    December 31,  
    2007     2006  
Restricted Group
               
Net income
  4,129     6,666  
Income taxes
    1,495       2,972  
Interest expense
    7,058       9,752  
Investment and other income
    (1,542 )     (2,056 )
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
    (3,821 )     (3,776 )
 
           
Operating income from operations
    7,319       13,558  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    7,648       7,239  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(1)
  14,967     20,797  
 
           
                 
    Year Ended  
    December 31,  
    2007     2006  
Restricted Group
               
Net income
  17,702     9,351  
Income taxes
    6,428       11,258  
Interest expense
    28,472       34,354  
Investment and other (income)
    (5,303 )     (5,316 )
Unrealized foreign exchange gain on debt
    (10,629 )     (15,245 )
 
           
Operating income from operations
    36,670       34,402  
Add: Depreciation and amortization
    28,919       27,819  
 
           
Operating EBITDA(1)
  65,589     62,221  
 
           
 
(1)   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.

(8)

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