10-Q 1 q307.htm 2007 3RD QTR 10Q

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

     

FORM 10-Q

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

          For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2007.


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

          For the transition period from         to        .
 

Commission File Number   1-12273

ROPER INDUSTRIES, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

Delaware 51-0263969
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
   
   
6901 Professional Pkwy. East, Suite 200
Sarasota, Florida
34240
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code)

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.

|X|Yes  |_|No

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer or a non-accelerated filer (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).
 

|X| Large accelerated file  |_| Accelerated filer  |_| Non-accelerated filer
 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12-b2 of the Act). |_| Yes  |X| No

The number of shares outstanding of the Registrant's common stock as of November 2, 2007 was approximately 88,665,483.


ROPER INDUSTRIES, INC.
 
REPORT ON FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTERLY PERIOD ENDED
SEPTEMBER 30, 2007


TABLE OF CONTENTS

   

Page

PART I.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1.

Financial Statements (unaudited):

 

 
 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings

3

 

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets

 

4

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

 

5

 

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity

 

6

 

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

 

7

Item 2.

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

 

12

Item 3.

Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

 

20

Item 4.

Controls and Procedures

 

21

PART II.

OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1A.

Risk Factors

22

Item 6.

Exhibits

 

22

 

Signatures

23




 

PART I.      FINANCIAL INFORMATION

ITEM 1.      FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Roper Industries, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (unaudited)
(in thousands, except per share data)

 

Three months ended
September 30,

 

Nine months ended
September 30,

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

               

Net sales

$ 532,902

 

$ 427,217

 

$ 1,541,965

 

$ 1,235,250

Cost of sales

261,123

 

208,967

 

769,643

 

609,720

Gross profit

271,779

 

218,250

 

772,322

 

625,530

               

Selling, general and administrative expenses

158,041

 

130,730

 

457,777

 

385,142

Income from operations

113,738

 

87,520

 

314,545

 

240,388

               

Interest expense

13,119

 

11,066

 

39,957

 

33,178

Other income/(expense)

(404)

 

267

 

(1,884)

 

108

               

Earnings before income taxes

100,215

 

76,721

 

272,704

 

207,318

               

Income taxes

35,075

 

25,907

 

94,901

 

70,725

               

Net earnings

$ 65,140

 

$ 50,814

 

$ 177,803

 

$ 136,593

               
               

Net earnings per share:

             

Basic

$ 0.74

 

$ 0.58

 

$ 2.01

 

$ 1.58

Diluted

0.70

 

0.56

 

1.91

 

1.51

               

Weighted average common shares outstanding:

             

Basic

88,575

 

87,050

 

88,286

 

86,679

Diluted

93,559

 

90,963

 

92,934

 

90,640

               

Dividends declared per common share

$ 0.06500

 

$ 0.05875

 

$ 0.19500

 

$ 0.17625

               

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


Roper Industries, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets (unaudited)
(in thousands)
 

 

September 30,

 

December 31,

 

2007

 

2006

ASSETS:

     
       

Cash and cash equivalents

$ 125,931

 

$ 69,478

Accounts receivable, net

364,751

 

324,514

Inventories

183,021

 

168,319

Deferred taxes

19,086

 

17,908

Other current assets

71,321

 

47,276

Total current assets

764,110

 

627,495

       

Property, plant and equipment, net

105,528

 

107,003

Goodwill

1,689,904

 

1,651,208

Other intangible assets, net

626,093

 

544,136

Deferred taxes

24,795

 

21,702

Other noncurrent assets

41,638

 

43,815

       

Total assets

$ 3,252,068

 

$ 2,995,359

       
       

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY:

     
       

Accounts payable

$ 106,555

 

$ 96,139

Accrued liabilities

182,924

 

184,148

Income taxes payable

24,957

 

5,896

Deferred taxes

1,466

 

1,555

Current portion of long-term debt

322,147

 

299,911

Total current liabilities

638,049

 

587,649

       

Long-term debt

656,198

 

726,881

Deferred taxes

199,955

 

169,994

Other liabilities

44,675

 

23,996

Total liabilities

1,538,877

 

1,508,520

       

Commitments and contingencies

     
       

Common stock

909

 

900

Additional paid-in capital

749,312

 

717,751

Retained earnings

879,093

 

721,899

Accumulated other comprehensive earnings

105,988

 

68,666

Treasury stock

(22,111)

 

(22,377)

Total stockholders’ equity

1,713,191

 

1,486,839

       

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

$ 3,252,068

 

$ 2,995,359

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


Roper Industries, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (unaudited)
(in thousands)
 

     

 

Nine months ended

September 30,

 

2007

 

2006

Cash flows from operating activities:

     

Net earnings

$ 177,803

 

$ 136,593

Depreciation

23,560

 

21,632

Amortization

46,643

 

38,694

Income Taxes

22,634

 

(770)

Other, net

(43,669)

 

(42,616)

       

          Cash provided by operating activities

226,971

 

153,533

       

Cash flows from investing activities:

     

Business acquisitions, net of cash acquired

(106,287)

 

(103,394)

Capital expenditures

(19,591)

 

(23,547)

Other, net

(3,596)

 

(1,383)

       

          Cash used by investing activities

(129,474)

 

(128,324)

       

Cash flows from financing activities:

     

Term note payments

(49,125)

 

(24,563)

Debt payments, net

(1,541)

 

(19,293)

Dividends

(17,182)

 

(15,291)

Excess windfall tax benefit

6,536

 

5,051

Proceeds from exercise of stock options

12,919

 

13,257

Other, net

1,351

 

1,191

       

          Cash used by financing activities

(47,042)

 

(39,648)

       

Effect of foreign currency exchange rate changes on cash

5,998

 

2,201

       

Net increase/( decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

56,453

 

(12,238)

       

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

69,478

 

53,116

       

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period

$ 125,931

 

$ 40,878

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.


Roper Industries, Inc. and Subsidiaries
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Changes in Stockholders’ Equity (unaudited)
(in thousands)

     

          
 

 

Common
stock

Additional paid-in capital

Retained earnings

Accumulated other comprehensive earnings

Treasury stock

Total

Balances at December 31, 2006

$ 900

$ 717,751

$ 721,899

$ 68,666

$ (22,377)

$ 1,486,839

             

Adjustment to adopt FASB Interpretation No. 48

-

-

(3,349)

-

-

(3,349)

Net earnings

-

-

177,803

-

-

177,803

Stock option exercises

8

12,950

-

-

-

12,958

Treasury stock transactions

-

1,085

-

-

266

1,351

Currency translation adjustments, net of $6,757 tax

-

-

-

38,898

-

38,898

Unrealized gain on derivative, shown net of $(849) tax

-

-

-

(1,576)

-

(1,576)

Stock based compensation

-

15,134

-

-

-

15,134

Restricted stock grants

1

(2,973)

-

-

-

(2,972)

Stock option tax benefit

-

5,365

-

-

-

5,365

Dividends declared

-

-

(17,260)

-

-

(17,260)

Balances at September 30, 2007

$ 909

$ 749,312

$ 879,093

$ 105,988

$ (22,111)

$ 1,713,191

                                                             

     

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements


Roper Industries, Inc. and Subsidiaries

Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements (unaudited)

September 30, 2007

1.     

Basis of Presentation


The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements for the three-month andnine-month periods ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 are unaudited. In the opinion of management, the accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, which include only normal recurring adjustments, necessary to state fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of Roper Industries, Inc. and its subsidiaries (“Roper” or the “Company”) for all periods presented.

Roper’s management has made a number of estimates and assumptions relating to the reporting of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities to prepare these condensed consolidated financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”). Actual results could differ from those estimates.

The results of operations for the three-month and nine-month periods ended September 30, 2007 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year. You should read these unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements in conjunction with Roper’s consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in its 2006 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed March 1, 2007 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”).

2.     

Earnings Per Share


Basic earnings per share were calculated using net earnings and the weighted average number of shares of common stock outstanding during the respective period. Diluted earnings per share were calculated using net earnings and the weighted average number of shares of common stock and potential common stock outstanding during the respective period. For the nine month period ended September 30, 2007, there were 28,500 outstanding stock options that were not included in the determination of diluted earnings per share because doing so would have been antidilutive, and none for the three month period ended September 30, 2007. For the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2006, there were 60,000 outstanding stock options that were not included in the determination of diluted earnings per share because doing so would have been antidilutive. Potentially dilutive common stock consisted of stock options, restricted stock awards and the premium over the conversion price on our senior subordinated convertible notes based upon the trading price of the Company’s common stock. The effects of potential common stock were determined using the treasury stock method (in thousands).

 

Three months ended September 30,

 

Nine months ended September 30 ,

 

2007

2006

 

2007

2006

Basic shares outstanding

88,575

87,050

 

88,286

86,679

Effect of potential common stock

         

Common stock awards

1,463

1,793

 

1,462

1,852

Senior subordinated convertible notes

3,521

2,120

 

3,186

2,109

Diluted shares outstanding

93,559

90,963

 

92,934

90,640

3.     

Stock Based Compensation


Roper Industries, Inc. 2006 Incentive Plan (“2006 Plan”) provides for the granting of incentive stock options, nonqualified stock options, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights or equivalent instruments to the Company’s employees, officers, directors and consultants. Roper has never issued stock awards other than those issued to employees or its non-employee directors.

Roper's Employee Stock Purchase Plan allows U.S. and Canada employees to designate up to 10% of eligible earnings to purchase Roper's common stock at a 10% discount to the average closing price of its common stock at the beginning and end of a quarterly offering period. The common stock sold to the employees may be either treasury stock, stock purchased on the open market, or newly issued shares.

The Company recognized stock based compensation expense of $5.4 million and $3.9 million for the three months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, and $15.1 million and $11.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. The total tax effect recognized in net income related to stock based compensation for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 was $5.3 million and $3.8 million, respectively. The tax benefit from option exercises and restricted stock vesting under all plans totaled approximately $5.4 million and $4.9 million, respectively, for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006.

Stock Options - In the nine months ended September 30, 2007, 542,000 options were granted with a weighted average fair value of $13.72. During the same period in 2006, 574,000 options were granted with a weighted average fair value of $13.18. All options were issued at grant date fair value.

The Company records compensation expense for employee stock options based on the estimated fair value of the options on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the assumptions included in the table below. The Company uses historical data among other factors to estimate the expected price volatility, the expected dividend yield, the expected option life and the expected forfeiture rate. The risk-free rate is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant for the estimated life of the option. The following weighted average assumptions were used to estimate the fair value of options granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2007 using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model:

Fair value per share ($)

13.72

Risk-free interest rate (%)

4.72

Expected option life (years)

4.5

Expected volatility (%)

20.91

Expected dividend yield (%)

0.50

Cash received from option exercises for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 was approximately $13.0 million and $13.3 million, respectively.

Restricted Stock Awards - During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, the Company granted 79,769 shares of restricted stock and 154,500 shares of performance based restricted stock with a weighted average fair value of $52.40. During the same period in 2006, 254,000 shares of restricted stock were granted with a weighted average fair value of $43.41. All grants were issued at grant date fair value.

During the nine months ended September 30, 2007, 187,390 restricted shares vested with a weighted average grant date fair value of $38.24, at a weighted average vest date fair value of $53.26.

Employee Stock Purchase Plan - During the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, participants of the Employee Stock Purchase Plan purchased 26,468 and 27,937 shares, respectively, of Roper's common stock for total consideration of $1.3 million and $1.2 million, respectively. All shares were purchased from Roper's treasury shares.

4.     

Comprehensive Earnings


Comprehensive earnings include net earnings and all other non-owner sources of changes in net assets. Comprehensive earnings (in thousands) for the three months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006 were $86,490 and $54,062, respectively, and $215,125 and $155,820 for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. The differences between net earnings and comprehensive earnings were currency translation adjustments and unrealized gains on interest rate swaps accounted for under hedge accounting, net of tax.

5.     

Inventories


 

September 30,
2007

 

December 31, 2006

 

(in thousands)

Raw materials and supplies

$ 121,577

 

$ 114,131

Work in process

29,095

 

27,617

Finished products

62,610

 

53,919

Inventory reserves

(30,261)

 

(27,348)

 

$ 183,021

 

$ 168,319

6.     

Goodwill


 

Industrial Technology

Energy Systems & Controls

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

RF Technology

Total

 

(in thousands)

Balances at December 31, 2006

$ 428,290

$ 364,548

$ 393,776

$ 464,594

$ 1,651,208

           

Additions

-

31,541

9,055

-

40,596

Other

-

(32,804)

-

724

(32,080)

Currency translation adjustments

11,979

6,458

8,248

3,495

30,180

Balances at September 30, 2007

$ 440,269

$ 369,743

$ 411,079

$ 468,813

$ 1,689,904

Other primarily represents purchase price allocation adjustments for Dynisco, which was purchased on November 30, 2006.

7.     

Other intangible assets, net                         


     

 

Cost

Accumulated

amortization

Net book
value

   

(in thousands)

 

Assets subject to amortization:

     

Customer related intangibles

$ 414,524

$ (62,553)

$ 351,971

Unpatented technology

31,571

(8,928)

22,643

Software

56,465

(17,869)

38,596

Patents and other protective rights

26,709

(13,205)

13,504

Backlog

19,460

(9,198)

10,262

Trade secrets

4,114

(2,621)

1,493

Assets not subject to amortization:

     

Trade names

105,667

-

105,667

Balances at December 31, 2006

$ 658,510

$ (114,374)

$ 544,136

       

Assets subject to amortization:

     

Customer related intangibles

$ 504,558

$ (86,631)

$ 417,927

Unpatented technology

36,328

(12,829)

23,499

Software

53,703

(22,541)

31,162

Patents and other protective rights

52,803

(20,202)

32,601

Backlog

16,549

(12,202)

4,347

Trade secrets

8,249

(3,886)

4,363

Assets not subject to amortization:

     

Trade names

112,194

-

112,194

Balances at September 30, 2007

$ 784,384

$ (158,291)

$ 626,093

The increase in intangible assets during the nine months ended September 30, 2007 related to the acquisitions of JLT, DJ Instruments, Roda Deaco, Dynamic Instruments and Black Diamond as well as a revised allocation of the intangible assets of Dynisco, purchased in November 2006. The revised allocation resulted in a $60 million increase in intangible assets, and a corresponding decrease in goodwill, prior to deferred taxes.

Amortization expense of other intangible assets was $43,968 and $35,202 during the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

8.     

Contingencies


Roper, in the ordinary course of business, is the subject of, or a party to, various pending or threatened legal actions, including those pertaining to product liability and employment practices. It is vigorously contesting all lawsuits that, in general, are based upon claims of the kind that have been customary over the past several years. After analyzing the Company’s contingent liabilities on a gross basis and, based upon past experience with resolution of its product liability and employment practices claims and the limits of the primary, excess, and umbrella liability insurance coverages that are available with respect to pending claims, management believes that adequate provision has been made to cover any potential liability not covered by insurance, and that the ultimate liability, if any, arising from these actions should not have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows of Roper.

Over recent years there has been a significant increase in certain U.S. states in asbestos-related litigation claims against numerous industrial companies. Roper and certain of its subsidiaries have been named defendants in some such cases. No significant resources have been required by Roper to respond to these cases and Roper believes it has valid defenses to such claims and, if required, intends to defend them vigorously. Given the state of these claims it is not possible to determine the potential liability, if any.

The Company’s financial statements include accruals for potential product liability and warranty claims based on the Company’s claims experience. Such costs are accrued at the time revenue is recognized. A summary of the Company’s warranty accrual activity for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 is presented below (in thousands).

Balance at December 31, 2006

$ 7,632

Additions charged to costs and expenses

5,033

Deductions

(4,351)

Other

368

Balance at September 30, 2007

$ 8,682

9.     

Industry Segments


Sales and operating profit by industry segment are set forth in the following table (dollars in thousands):

 

Three months ended September 30,

     

Nine months ended

September 30,

   
 

2007

 

2006

 

Change

 

2007

 

2006

 

Change

Net sales:

                     

Industrial Technology

$ 161,828

 

$ 140,624

 

15.1%

 

$ 477,667

 

$ 402,204

 

18.8%

Energy Systems & Controls

131,033

 

88,485

 

48.1

 

361,044

 

233,109

 

54.9

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

91,331

 

83,501

 

9.4

 

277,042

 

249,923

 

10.9

RF Technology

148,710

 

114,607

 

29.8

 

426,212

 

350,014

 

21.8

                       

Total

$ 532,902

 

$ 427,217

 

24.7%

 

$ 1,541,965

 

$ 1,235,250

 

24.8%

                       

Gross profit:

                     

Industrial Technology

$ 78,394

 

$ 65,863

 

19.0%

 

$ 228,407

 

$ 192,389

 

18.7%

Energy Systems & Controls

70,907

 

48,809

 

45.3

 

191,159

 

126,473

 

51.1

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

50,242

 

49,017

 

2.5

 

152,629

 

141,725

 

7.7

RF Technology

72,236

 

54,561

 

32.4

 

200,127

 

164,943

 

21.3

                       

Total

$ 271,779

 

$ 218,250

 

24.5%

 

$ 772,322

 

$ 625,530

 

23.5%

                       

Operating profit*:

                     

Industrial Technology

$ 42,065

 

$ 32,747

 

28.5%

 

$ 120,721

 

$ 92,489

 

30.5%

Energy Systems & Controls

31,858

 

25,108

 

26.9

 

81,579

 

59,077

 

38.1

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

16,385

 

18,832

 

(13.0)

 

53,453

 

52,703

 

1.4

RF Technology

34,997

 

19,344

 

80.9

 

90,669

 

62,368

 

45.4

                       

Total

$ 125,305

 

$ 96,031

 

30.5%

 

$ 346,422

 

$ 266,637

 

29.9%

                       

Long-lived assets

                     

Industrial Technology

$ 44,200

 

$ 46,635

 

(5.2)%

           

Energy Systems & Controls

26,143

 

23,346

 

12.0

           

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

28,234

 

25,027

 

12.8

           

RF Technology

22,096

 

22,834

 

(3.2)

           
                       

Total

$ 120,673

 

$ 117,842

 

2.4%

           

      * Segment operating profit is calculated as operating profit before unallocated corporate general and administrative expenses. Such expenses were $11,567 and $8,511 for the three months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively, and $31,877 and $26,249 for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively.

10.     

Recently Released Accounting Pronouncements


In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure and report many financial instruments and certain other assets and liabilities at fair value. The objective is to improve financial reporting by providing entities with the opportunity to reduce the complexity in accounting for financial instruments and to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently reviewing SFAS No. 159 to determine whether it will have any impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements upon adoption.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements," which clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands the disclosures on fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently assessing the impact of SFAS No. 157 on its consolidated financial position and results of operations.

The Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,” on January 1, 2007. This Interpretation requires the Company to recognize in the consolidated financial statements only those tax positions determined to be “more likely than not” of being sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the positions. As a result of the adoption of FIN 48, the Company recorded an increase of $3.3 million in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits, which was accounted for as a decrease to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings. At January 1, 2007, the Company had $21.3 million of unrecognized tax benefits of which, if ultimately recognized, $10.1 million will reduce the Company’s tax rate in the year the benefits are recognized. There have been no material changes in the unrecognized tax benefits since January 1, 2007. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The Company accrued $1.7 million for interest and penalties at January 1, 2007. The change in accrual for interest and penalties for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 was not material. The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state, city and foreign jurisdictions. The Company’s federal income tax returns for 2003 through the current period remain subject to examination and the relevant state, city and foreign statutes vary. There are no current tax examinations in progress where the Company expects the assessment of any significant additional tax in excess of amounts reserved.

 


ITEM 2.     MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

You should read the following discussion in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Conditions and Results of Operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2006 as filed on March 1, 2007 with the SEC and the notes to our Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this report.

Overview

Roper Industries, Inc. (“Roper”, “we” or “us”) is a diversified growth company that designs, manufactures and distributes energy systems and controls, scientific and industrial imaging products and software, industrial technology products and radio frequency (RF) products and services. We market these products and services to selected segments of a broad range of markets, including radio frequency applications, water, energy, research and medical, security and other niche markets.

We pursue consistent and sustainable growth in sales and earnings by emphasizing continuous improvement in the operating performance of our existing businesses and by acquiring other carefully selected businesses that offer high value-added, engineered products and solutions and are capable of achieving growth and maintaining high margins. Our acquisitions have represented both financial bolt-ons and new strategic platforms. We strive for high cash and earnings returns from our investments. During the first nine months of 2007, our results of operations benefited from the 2006 acquisitions of Sinmed Holding International BV (“Sinmed”) on April 5, 2006, Intellitrans, LLC (“Intellitrans”) on April 26, 2006, Lumenera Corporation (“Lumenera”) on July 25, 2006, AC Analytical Controls Holding B.V. (“AC Controls”) on August 8, 2006, and Dynisco Parent, Inc. (“Dynisco”) on November 30, 2006, and the 2007 acquisitions of JLT Mobile Computers, Inc. (“JLT”) on February 21, 2007, DJ Instruments on February 28, 2007, Roda Deaco Valve Ltd., (“Roda Deaco”) on March 22, 2007, Dynamic Instruments, Inc., (“Dynamic Instruments”) including its wholly owned subsidiary, Hardy Instruments, Inc., on June 21, 2007, and Black Diamond Advanced Technology, LLC, (“Black Diamond”) on September 24, 2007.

Application of Critical Accounting Policies

Our consolidated financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (“GAAP”). A discussion of our significant accounting policies can be found in the notes to our consolidated financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2006 included in our Annual Report.

GAAP offers acceptable alternative methods for accounting for certain issues affecting our financial results, such as determining inventory cost, depreciating long-lived assets and recognizing revenues. We have not changed the application of acceptable accounting methods or the significant estimates affecting the application of these principles in the last three years in a manner that had a material effect on our financial statements.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP requires the use of estimates, assumptions, judgments and interpretations that can affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities and other supplemental disclosures.

The development of accounting estimates is the responsibility of our management. Our management discusses those areas that require significant judgments with the audit committee of our board of directors. The audit committee discusses critical estimates with our external auditors and reviews all financial disclosures to be included in our filings with the SEC. Although we believe the positions we have taken with regard to uncertainties are reasonable, others might reach different conclusions and our positions can change over time as more information becomes available. If an accounting estimate changes, its effects are accounted for prospectively.

Our most significant accounting uncertainties are encountered in the areas of accounts receivable collectibility, inventory utilization, future warranty obligations, revenue recognition (percent of completion), income taxes and goodwill analysis. These issues, except for income taxes (which are not allocated to our business segments), affect each of our business segments. These issues are evaluated primarily using a combination of historical experience, current conditions and relatively short-term forecasting.

Accounts receivable collectibility is based on the economic circumstances of customers and credits given to customers after shipment of products, including in certain cases, credits for returned products. Accounts receivable are regularly reviewed to determine customers who have not paid within agreed upon terms, whether these amounts are consistent with past experiences, what historical experience has been with amounts deemed uncollectible and the impact that current and near-term forecast economic conditions might have on collection efforts in general and with specific customers. The returns and other sales credit histories are analyzed to determine likely future rates for such credits. At September 30, 2007, our allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, sales returns and sales credits was $11.6 million, or 3.1% of total gross accounts receivable of $376.4 million. The reserve at December 31, 2006 was $9.0 million.

We regularly compare inventory quantities on hand against anticipated future usage, which we determine as a function of historical usage or forecasts related to specific items in order to evaluate obsolescence and excessive quantities. When we use historical usage, this information is also qualitatively compared to business trends to evaluate the reasonableness of using historical information as an estimate of future usage. Business trends can change rapidly and these events can affect the evaluation of inventory balances. At September 30, 2007, inventory reserves for excess and obsolete inventory were $30.0 million, or 14.1% of gross first-in, first-out inventory cost. The reserve as a percentage of gross first-in, first-out inventory cost has increased 0.5% from December 31, 2006 based upon evaluations performed within our specific business units, primarily in the Scientific and Industrial Imaging segment.

Most of our sales are covered by warranty provisions that generally provide for the repair or replacement of qualifying defective items for a specified period after the time of sale, typically 12 months. Future warranty obligations are evaluated using, among other factors, historical cost experience, product evolution and customer feedback. At September 30, 2007, the accrual for future warranty obligations was $8.7 million or 0.4% of annualized third quarter sales and is consistent with prior quarters.

Net sales recognized under the percentage-of-completion method of accounting are estimated and dependent on a comparison of total costs incurred to date to total estimated costs for a project. During the third quarter of 2007, we recognized $33.4 million of net sales using this method. In addition, approximately $139.2 million of net sales related to unfinished percentage-of-completion contracts had yet to be recognized at September 30, 2007. Net sales accounted for under this method are generally not significantly different in profitability compared with net sales for similar products and services accounted for under other methods.

Income taxes can be affected by estimates of whether, and within which jurisdictions, future earnings will occur and how and when cash is repatriated to the United States, combined with other aspects of an overall income tax strategy. Additionally, taxing jurisdictions could retroactively disagree with our tax treatment of certain items, and some historical transactions have income tax effects going forward. Accounting rules require these future effects to be evaluated using current laws, rules and regulations, each of which can change at any time and in an unpredictable manner. Our third quarter effective income tax rate was 35.0%. We expect to experience a similar rate in future quarters, however, we continue to experience upward rate pressures due to a higher proportion of our sales in higher tax jurisdictions.

The evaluation of the carrying value of goodwill and indefinite-lived intangibles is required to be performed annually. We perform this analysis during our fourth quarter.           


Results of Operations

 

General

The following tables set forth selected information for the periods indicated. Dollar amounts are in thousands and percentages are the particular line item shown as a percentage of net sales. Percentages may not foot due to rounding.

               

 

Three months ended September 30,

 

Nine months ended

September 30,

 

2007

 

2006

 

2007

 

2006

Net sales

             

Industrial Technology

$ 161,828

 

$ 140,624

 

$ 477,667

 

$ 402,204

Energy Systems & Controls

131,033

 

88,485

 

361,044

 

233,109

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

91,331

 

83,501

 

277,042

 

249,923

RF Technology

148,710

 

114,607

 

426,212

 

350,014

Total

$ 532,902

 

$ 427,217

 

$ 1,541,965

 

$ 1,235,250

Gross profit:

             

Industrial Technology

48.4%

 

46.8%

 

47.8%

 

47.8%

Energy Systems & Controls

54.1

 

55.2

 

52.9

 

54.3

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

55.0

 

58.7

 

55.1

 

56.7

RF Technology

48.6

 

47.6

 

47.0

 

47.1

Total

51.0

 

51.1

 

50.1

 

50.6

Selling, general & administrative expenses:

             

Industrial Technology

22.4%

 

23.5%

 

22.5%

 

24.8%

Energy Systems & Controls

29.8

 

26.8

 

30.4

 

28.9

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

37.1

 

36.1

 

35.8

 

35.6

RF Technology

25.0

 

30.7

 

25.7

 

29.3

Total

27.5

 

28.6

 

27.6

 

29.1

Segment operating profit:

             

Industrial Technology

26.0%

 

23.3%

 

25.3%

 

23.0%

Energy Systems & Controls

24.3

 

28.4

 

22.6

 

25.3

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

17.9

 

22.6

 

19.3

 

21.1

RF Technology

23.5

 

16.9

 

21.3

 

17.8

Total

23.5

 

22.5

 

22.5

 

21.6

Corporate administrative expenses

(2.2)

 

(2.0)

 

(2.1)

 

(2.1)

 

21.3

 

20.5

 

20.4

 

19.5

Interest expense

(2.5)

 

(2.6)

 

(2.6)

 

(2.7)

Other income/(expense)

(0.1)

 

0.1

 

(0.1)

 

     -

Earnings before income taxes

18.8

 

18.0

 

17.7

 

16.8

Income taxes

(6.6)

 

(6.1)

 

(6.2)

 

(5.7)

Net earnings

12.2%

 

11.9%

 

11.5%

 

11.1%


Three months ended September 30, 2007 compared to three months ended September 30, 2006

Net sales for the quarter ended September 30, 2007 were $532.9 million as compared to $427.2 million in the prior-year quarter, an increase of 24.7%. Our third quarter 2007 results included a full quarter of sales from the 2006 acquisitions of Sinmed, Intellitrans, Lumenera, AC Controls and Dynisco, and the 2007 acquisitions of JLT, DJ Instruments, Roda Deaco and Dynamic Instruments. Approximately $39.3 million of our sales increase was due to acquisitions; however, all four segments showed improvement over the prior year quarter resulting in internal sales growth of 16%.

In our Industrial Technology segment, net sales were up 15.1% to $161.8 million in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to $140.6 million in the third quarter of 2006 due to strength in municipal water and oil and gas markets as well as broad-based demand for material test products. Gross margins increased to 48.4% in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to 46.8% for the third quarter of 2006. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales were 22.4%, down from 23.5% in the prior year quarter due to operating leverage from higher sales. The resulting operating profit margins were 26.0% in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to 23.3% in the third quarter of 2006.

Net sales in our Energy Systems & Controls segment increased by 48.1% to $131.0 million during the third quarter of 2007 compared to $88.5 million in the third quarter of 2006. Sales increased approximately 40% due to the contribution of Dynisco and Dynamic Instruments. Gross margins decreased to 54.1% in the third quarter of 2007 compared to 55.2% in the third quarter of 2006 due to the mix change within the segment caused by the inclusion of the lower gross margin Dynisco business. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 29.8% compared to prior year quarter at 26.8% largely due to the additional non-cash amortization of intangible assets related to our acquisitions. The resulting operating margins were 24.3% in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to 28.4% in the third quarter of 2006.

Net sales in our Scientific & Industrial Imaging segment increased by 9.4% to $91.3 million during the third quarter of 2007 as compared to $83.5 million in the third quarter of 2006. Sales increased approximately 5% due to acquisitions. Internal sales increased by 4.8% with gains in our microscopy and medical businesses offset by declines in camera product sales due to reduced U.S. government funding and a supplier quality issue with computer touch screens slowing sales and profitability of DAP product lines. Gross margins decreased to 55.0% in the third quarter of 2007 from 58.7% in the third quarter of 2006 due primarily to the additional costs related to the DAP touch screen quality issue that continued into the third quarter. SG&A as a percentage of net sales was 37.1% in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to 36.1% in the third quarter of 2006. As a result, operating margins were 17.9% in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to 22.6% in the third quarter of 2006.

In our RF Technology segment, net sales were up 29.8% at $148.7 million compared to $114.6 million in the third quarter of 2006. The increase is due to internal growth in our security and tolling and traffic management businesses. Gross margins were 48.6% as compared to 47.6% in the prior year quarter. The increase is due to strong shipments of RFID tags during the quarter, which have a higher gross margin. SG&A as a percentage of sales in the third quarter of 2007 was 25.0%, down from 30.7% in the prior year due to operating leverage on increased sales with a resulting operating profit margin of 23.5% as compared to 16.9% in 2006.

Corporate expenses were $11.6 million in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to $8.5 million in the third quarter of 2006. The increase was due to a $1.6 million increase in stock compensation costs in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to the third quarter of 2006 related to the increase in the fair value of stock awards issued in 2007, due to the higher price of Roper stock at grant date, as well as expenses in the third quarter of 2007 related to due diligence and related professional fees.

Interest expense of $13.1 million for the third quarter of 2007 was $2.0 million higher as compared to the third quarter of 2006. This is due to higher average balances on our credit facility due to the acquisition of Dynisco in November 2006, and the 2007 acquisitions of DJ Instruments, JLT, Roda Deaco, Dynamic Instruments, and Black Diamond.

Income taxes were 35.0% of pretax earnings in the current quarter, up from the third quarter 2006 rate of 33.8%. The prior year rate included benefits from the expiration of certain tax years and certain tax return to tax provision adjustments. The current year quarter did not benefit from these adjustments.

At September 30, 2007, the functional currencies of our non-U.S. subsidiaries were stronger against the U.S. dollar compared to currency exchange rates at September 30, 2006 and December 31, 2006. The currency changes resulted in an increase of $24.3 million in the foreign exchange component of comprehensive earnings for the quarter. Approximately $15.3 million of the total adjustment is related to goodwill and is not expected to directly affect our expected future cash flows. Operating results in the third quarter of 2007 increased slightly due to the weakening of the US dollar as compared to a year ago. The difference between the operating results for these companies for the three months ended September 30, 2007, translated into U.S. dollars was approximately 1%.

Net orders were $532.9 million for the quarter, 22.3% higher than the third quarter 2006 net order intake of $435.7 million. Approximately $44 million of the order increase was due to acquisitions resulting in internal growth of 12.3%. We experienced strong bookings in all of our segments. Overall, our order backlog at September 30, 2007 was up 23.5% as compared to September 30, 2006. The increase is due to internal growth of 19.0%, with the remainder of the increase due to acquisitions.

                              

 

Net orders booked for the three months ended September 30,

Order backlog as of September 30,

 

2007

2006

2007

2006

 

          (in thousands)

Industrial Technology

$ 153,236

$ 149,801

$ 99,114

$ 90,633

Energy Systems & Controls

145,855

89,003

98,752

64,635

Scientific & Industrial Imaging

95,633

85,758

74,202

62,087

RF Technology

138,219

111,113

259,860

213,452

 

$ 532,943

$ 435,675

$ 531,928

$ 430,807

Nine months ended September 30, 2007 compared to nine months ended September 30, 2006

Net sales for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 were $1.54 billion as compared to $1.24 billion in the prior-year nine month period, an increase of 24.8%. Results of the nine month period ended September 30, 2007 included sales from the 2006 acquisitions of Sinmed, Intellitrans, Lumenera, AC Controls and Dynisco, and partial period results from the 2007 acquisitions of JLT, DJ Instruments, Roda Deaco, and Dynamic Instruments. Approximately $129 million of our sales increase was due to acquisitions; however, all four segments showed improvement over the prior year nine month period resulting in internal sales growth of 15%.

In our Industrial Technology segment, net sales were up 18.8% to $477.7 million in the first nine months of 2007 as compared to $402.2 million in the first nine months of 2006 due primarily to increased sales of water meters with new integrated radio frequency technology and strong sales in our material test products. Gross margins were unchanged at 47.8% for both the first nine months of 2007 and 2006. We have experienced increases in raw materials cost in some of our businesses which have been offset by leverage on higher sales and other cost containment activities. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales were 22.5%, down from 24.8% in the prior year nine month period due to operating leverage from higher sales. The resulting operating profit margins were 25.3% in the first nine months of 2007 as compared to 23.0% in the first nine months of 2006.

Net sales in our Energy Systems & Controls segment increased by 54.9% to $361.0 million during the first nine months of 2007 compared to $233.1 million in the first nine months of 2006. Sales increased approximately 42% due to AC Controls and Dynisco, purchased in 2006, and the 2007 acquisitions of Roda Deaco and Dynamic Instruments. Gross margins decreased to 52.9% in the first nine months of 2007 compared to 54.3% in the first nine months of 2006 due to the mix change within the segment caused by the inclusion of the lower gross margin Dynisco business and a $0.8 million inventory step-up charge in 2007. SG&A expenses as a percentage of net sales increased to 30.4% in the current nine month period from 28.9% in the prior year nine month period largely due to the additional non-cash amortization of intangible assets related to our acquisitions. As a result, operating margins were 22.6% in the first nine months of 2007 as compared to 25.3% in first nine months of 2006.

In our Scientific & Industrial Imaging segment net sales increased 10.9% to $277.0 million in the first nine months of 2007 as compared to $249.9 million in the first nine months of 2006. Sales increased approximately 7% due to acquisitions. Internal sales increased by 3.9% with gains in our microscopy and medical businesses offset by declines in industrial camera sales and a supplier quality issue with computer touch screens slowing sales and profitability of DAP product lines. Gross margins decreased to 55.1% in the first nine months of 2007 from 56.7% in the first nine months of 2006. SG&A as a percentage of net sales was relatively unchanged at 35.8% in the nine month period ended September 30, 2007 as compared to 35.6% in the prior year period. As a result, operating margins were 19.3% in the first nine months of 2007 as compared to 21.1% in the first nine months of 2006.

In our RF Technology segment, net sales were up 21.8% to $426.2 million compared to $350.0 million in the first nine months of 2006. Internal growth was 20%, driven by growth in our tolling and traffic management business. Acquisitions added 2% of growth to the segment. Gross margins were relatively unchanged at 47.0% as compared to 47.1% in the prior year nine month period. SG&A as a percentage of sales in the first nine months of 2007 was 25.7% down from 29.3% in the prior year due to leverage on increased sales, with a resulting operating profit margin of 21.3% as compared to 17.8% in 2006.

Corporate expenses were $31.9 million in the nine month period ended September 30, 2007 as compared to $26.2 million in the first nine months of 2006. The increase was due to a $4.1 million increase in stock compensation costs in the first nine months of 2007 as compared to the first nine months of 2006 related to the increase in the fair value of stock awards issued in 2007, due to the higher price of Roper stock at grant date, as well as expenses in the first nine months of 2007 related to due diligence and related professional fees.

Interest expense of $40.0 million for the first nine months of 2007 was $6.8 million higher as compared to the first nine months of 2006. This is due to higher average balances on our credit facility due to the acquisitions of Dynisco in November 2006, and the 2007 acquisitions of DJ Instruments, JLT, Roda Deaco, Dynamic Instruments, and Black Diamond.

Income taxes were 34.8% of pretax earnings in the first nine months of 2007 as compared to 34.1% in the first nine months of 2006. This increase is attributable to the increasing sales and income of our domestic operations subject to additional state income tax and lower credits for our export sales, offset by a reduction in the effective tax rate in Denmark which went into effect during the second quarter of 2007.

Financial Condition, Liquidity and Capital Resources

Net cash provided by operating activities was $91.4 million in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to $47.8 million in the third quarter of 2006, due to higher income levels and lower tax payments in the third quarter of 2007 as compared to the third quarter of 2006. Cash used in investing activities during the current year quarter was primarily capital expenditures and business acquisitions, and primarily business acquisitions in the prior year quarter. Cash used in financing activities during the current and prior year quarter resulted primarily from dividend and debt payments. Principal payments of $16.4 million were made on the Company’s $655.0 million term loan in accordance with the terms of the credit facility.

Year to date net cash provided by operating activities was $227.0 million in the nine month period ended September 30, 2007 as compared to $153.5 million in the nine month period ended September 30, 2006, a 48% increase. This increase is primarily due to the higher income levels over the prior year period, and improved working capital metrics. Cash used in investing activities during both the current and prior year nine month periods was primarily business acquisitions. Cash used in financing activities during the current and prior year nine month periods was for paydown on our revolving credit line, scheduled payments on our term debt and dividend payments. $50.7 million of debt was repaid over the nine months ended September 30, 2007 as compared with $43.9 million in the prior-year period. In the current year, principal payments of $49.1 million were made on the Company’s $655.0 million term loan in accordance with the terms of the credit facility.

Net working capital (total current assets, excluding cash, less total current liabilities, excluding debt) was $322.3 million at September 30, 2007 compared to $270.3 million at December 31, 2006, reflecting increases in working capital due to 2007 and 2006 acquisitions and a higher level of sales in the third quarter of 2007. Total debt was $978.3 million at September 30, 2007 compared to $1.03 billion at December 31, 2006. The leverage of the Company is shown in the following table:

   

September 30,
2007

 

December 31, 2006

   

(in thousands)

Total Debt

 

$ 978,345

 

$ 1,026,792

Cash

 

(125,931)

 

(69,478)

Net Debt

 

852,414

 

957,314

Stockholders’ Equity

 

1,713,191

 

1,486,839

Total Net Capital

 

$ 2,565,605

 

$ 2,444,153

         

Net Debt / Total Net Capital

 

33.2%

 

39.2%

Our debt consists of a $1.055 billion senior secured credit facility with a diverse group of participating financial institutions and banks, and $230 million of senior subordinated convertible notes. The credit facility consists of a $655 million amortizing term loan with a five year maturity and a $400 million revolving loan with a five year maturity. Our senior subordinated convertible notes are due in 2034. At September 30, 2007, our debt consisted of the $230 million in senior subordinated convertible notes, $543.4 million of term loans and $201.0 million in outstanding revolver debt under the credit facility. The Company also had $62.9 million of outstanding letters of credit at September 30, 2007. We expect that our available additional borrowing capacity combined with the cash flows expected to be generated from existing business will be sufficient to fund normal operating requirements and finance additional acquisitions. We also have several smaller facilities that allow for borrowings or the issuance of letters of credit in various foreign locations to support our non-U.S. businesses. In total, these smaller facilities do not represent a significant source of credit for us.

The Company was in compliance with all debt covenants related to our credit facilities throughout the nine month period ended September 30, 2007.

At September 30, 2007, we did not have any relationships with unconsolidated entities or financial partnerships, such as entities often referred to as structured finance or special purpose entities, which would have been established for the purpose of facilitating off-balance sheet arrangements or other contractually narrow or limited purposes.

Capital expenditures of $19.6 million and $23.5 million were incurred during the nine month periods ended September 30, 2007 and 2006, respectively. The decrease over the prior year period was primarily due to the non-recurrence of $4.8 million in expenditures related to our new facility in Houston in the first quarter of 2006. We expect capital expenditures for the balance of the year to be comparable to prior years as a percentage of sales.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards

In February 2007, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” SFAS No. 159 permits entities to choose to measure and report many financial instruments and certain other assets and liabilities at fair value. The objective is to improve financial reporting by providing entities with the opportunity to reduce the complexity in accounting for financial instruments and to mitigate volatility in reported earnings caused by measuring related assets and liabilities differently. SFAS No. 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We are currently reviewing SFAS No. 159 to determine whether it will have any impact on our Consolidated Financial Statements upon adoption.

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, "Fair Value Measurements," which clarifies the definition of fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value and expands the disclosures on fair value measurements. SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. The Company is currently assessing the impact of SFAS No. 157 on its consolidated financial position and results of operations.

The Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation (“FIN”) No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – an Interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109,” on January 1, 2007. This Interpretation requires the Company to recognize in the consolidated financial statements only those tax positions determined to be “more likely than not” of being sustained upon examination based on the technical merits of the positions. As a result of the adoption of FIN 48, the Company recorded an increase of $3.3 million in the liability for unrecognized tax benefits, which was accounted for as a decrease to the January 1, 2007 balance of retained earnings. At January 1, 2007, the Company had $21.3 million of unrecognized tax benefits of which, if ultimately recognized, $10.1 million will reduce the Company’s tax rate in the year the benefits are recognized. There have been no material changes in the unrecognized tax benefits since January 1, 2007. The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. The Company accrued $1.7 million for interest and penalties at January 1, 2007. The change in accrual for interest and penalties for the nine months ended September 30, 2007 was not material. The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to U.S. federal income tax as well as income tax of multiple state, city and foreign jurisdictions. The Company’s federal income tax returns for 2003 through the current period remain subject to examination and the relevant state, city and foreign statutes vary. There are no current tax examinations in progress where the Company expects the assessment of any significant additional tax in excess of amounts reserved.

Outlook

Current geopolitical uncertainties could adversely affect our business prospects. A significant terrorist attack or other global conflict could cause changes in world economies that would adversely affect us. It is impossible to isolate each of these factor’s effects on current economic conditions. It is also impossible to predict with any reasonable degree of certainty what or when any additional events may occur that also will similarly disrupt the economy.

We maintain an active acquisition program; however, future acquisitions will be dependent on numerous factors and it is not feasible to reasonably estimate if or when any such acquisitions will occur and what the impact will be on our business, financial condition and results of operations. Such acquisitions may be financed by the use of existing credit lines, future cash flows from operations, the proceeds from the issuance of new debt or equity securities or some combination of these methods.

We anticipate that our recently acquired companies as well as our other companies will generate positive cash flows from operating activities, and that these cash flows will permit the reduction of currently outstanding debt at a pace consistent with that which has historically been experienced. However, the rate at which we can reduce our debt during 2007 (and reduce the associated interest expense) will be affected by, among other things, the financing and operating requirements of any new acquisitions and the financial performance of our existing companies; and none of these factors can be predicted with certainty.

Information About Forward Looking Statements

This report includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. In addition, we, or our executive officers on our behalf, may from time to time make forward-looking statements in reports and other documents we file with the SEC or in oral statements made to the press, potential investors or others. All statements that are not historical facts are “forward-looking statements.” The words “estimate,” “project,” “intend,” “expect,” “should,” “will,” “plan,” “believe,” “anticipate,” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include statements regarding our expected financial position, business, financing plans, business strategy, business prospects, revenues, working capital, liquidity, capital needs, interest costs and income, in each case relating to our company as a whole, as well as statements regarding acquisitions, potential acquisitions and the benefits of acquisitions.

Forward-looking statements are estimates and projections reflecting our best judgment and involve a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those suggested by the forward-looking statements. These statements are based on our management’s beliefs and assumptions, which in turn are based on currently available information. Examples of forward looking statements in this report include but are not limited to our expectations regarding our ability to generate operating cash flows and reduce debt and associated interest expense and our expectations regarding growth through acquisitions. Important assumptions relating to the forward-looking statements include, among others, assumptions regarding demand for our products, the cost, timing and success of product upgrades and new product introductions, raw materials costs, expected pricing levels, the timing and cost of expected capital expenditures, expected outcomes of pending litigation, competitive conditions, general economic conditions and expected synergies relating to acquisitions, joint ventures and alliances. These assumptions could prove inaccurate. Although we believe that the estimates and projections reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, our expectations may prove to be incorrect. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from estimates or projections contained in the forward-looking statements include:

  • difficulty making acquisitions and successfully integrating acquired businesses;
  • any unforeseen liabilities associated with future acquisitions;
  • limitations on our business imposed by our indebtedness;
  • unfavorable changes in foreign exchange rates;
  • difficulties associated with exports;
  • risks and costs associated with our international sales and operations;
  • increased directors and officers liability and other insurance costs;
  • risk of rising interest rates;
  • product liability and insurance risks;
  • increased warranty exposure;
  • future competition;
  • the cyclical nature of some of our markets;
  • reduction of business with large customers;
  • risks associated with government contracts;
  • changes in the supply of, or price for, parts and components;
  • environmental compliance costs and liabilities;
  • risks and costs associated with asbestos-related litigation;
  • potential write-offs of our substantial intangible assets;
  • our ability to successfully develop new products;
  • failure to protect our technology;
  • trade tariffs that may be applied due to the U.S. government's delay in complying with certain WTO directives;
  • terrorist attacks;
  • future health crises; and
  • the factors discussed in other reports filed with the SEC.

We believe these forward-looking statements are reasonable; however, you should not place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements, which are based on current expectations. Further, forward-looking statements speak only as of the date they are made, and we undertake no obligation to publicly update any of these statements in light of new information or future events.

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to interest rate risks on our outstanding borrowings, and we are exposed to foreign currency exchange risks on our transactions denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. We are also exposed to equity market risks pertaining to the traded price of our common stock.

At September 30, 2007, we had a combination of fixed-rate borrowings (primarily our $230 million senior subordinated convertible notes and $250 million of our term loan with accompanying interest rate swap) and variable rate borrowings under the $1.055 billion credit facility. Our $655 million 5-year term note under this credit facility was variable at a spread over LIBOR. Any borrowings under the $400 million revolving credit facility have a fixed rate, but the terms of these individual borrowings are generally only one to three months. To reduce the financial risk of future rate increases, the Company entered into a $250 million fixed rate swap agreement expiring on March 13, 2008. At September 30, 2007, the prevailing market rates were between 1.9% and 2.7% higher than the fixed rate on our debt instruments.

At September 30, 2007, Roper’s outstanding variable-rate borrowings under the $1.055 billion credit facility were $494.4 million. An increase in interest rates of 1% would increase our annualized pre-tax interest costs by approximately $4.9 million.

Several Roper companies have transactions and balances denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. Most of these transactions or balances are denominated in Euros, Canadian dollars, British pounds, or Danish krone. Sales by companies whose functional currency was not the U.S. dollar were 28.3% of our total third quarter 2007 sales and 65.2% of these sales were by companies with a European functional currency. The U.S. dollar weakened against nearly all reporting currencies during the third quarter of 2007 versus December 31, 2006. The difference between the current quarter operating results for these companies translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates experienced during third quarter 2007 versus exchange rates experienced during third quarter 2006 led to increased operating profits of approximately 1%. If these currency exchange rates had been 10% different throughout the third quarter of 2007 compared to currency exchange rates actually experienced, the impact on our net earnings would have been approximately $2.9 million.

The changes in these currency exchange rates relative to the U.S. dollar during the third quarter of 2007 compared to currency exchange rates at December 31, 2006 resulted in an increase in net assets of $24.3 million that was reported as a component of comprehensive earnings, $15.3 million of which was attributed to goodwill. Goodwill changes from currency exchange rate changes do not directly affect our reported earnings or cash flows.

The trading price of Roper's common stock influences the valuation of stock option grants and the effects these grants have on net income. The stock price also influences the computation of the dilutive effect of outstanding stock options to determine diluted earnings per share. The stock price also affects our employees' perceptions of various programs that involve our common stock. We believe the quantification of the effects of these changing prices on our future earnings and cash flows is not readily determinable.

ITEM 4.      CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

As required by SEC rules, we have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report (“Evaluation Date”). This evaluation was carried out under the supervision and with the participation of our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer. Based on this evaluation as of the Effective Date, these officers have concluded that the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures are effective.

There were no changes to our internal controls during the period covered by this quarterly report that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal controls over financial reporting.

Disclosure controls and procedures are our controls and other procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by us in the reports that we file or submit under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms. Disclosure controls and procedures include, without limitation, controls and procedures designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that we file or submit under the Exchange Act are accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive officer and principal financial officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.


Part II.          OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1A.           Risk Factors

For information regarding factors that could affect the Company’s results of operations, financial condition and liquidity, see the risk factors discussion in Item  1A of Roper’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2006. See also, “Information about Forward-Looking Statements” included in Item 2 of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.      

Item 6.           Exhibits

(a) 3.1

 

Certificate of Amendment, amending Restated Certificate of Incorporation.

(b) 4.1

 

Form of Indenture for Debt Securities.

4.2

 

Form of Debt Securities (included in Exhibit 4.3).

(c) 4.3

 

First Supplemental Indenture between Roper Industries, Inc. and SunTrust Bank, dated as of December 29, 2003.

 

31.1

 

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Certification of the Chief Executive Officer , filed herewith.

31.2

 

Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Certification of the Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.

32.1

 

Section 1350 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer, filed herewith.

32.2

 

Section 1350 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.

___________________________

      (a) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Roper Industries, Inc. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2007.

      (b) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Roper Industries, Inc. Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed November 28, 2003 (File No. 333-110491).

      (c) Incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Roper Industries, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K filed January 13, 2004.


Signatures

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

Roper Industries, Inc.


 

Signature
Title
Date
     /s/ Brian D. Jellison      Chairman of the Board, President, November 9, 2007
Brian D. Jellison and Chief Executive Officer  
 
 
     /s/ John Humphrey      Chief Financial Officer and Vice President November 9, 2007
John Humphrey  
 
 
     /s/ Paul J. Soni      Vice President and Controller November 9, 2007
Paul J. Soni  


EXHIBIT INDEX
TO REPORT ON FORM 10-Q

Number                          Exhibit

3.1     Certificate of Amendment, amending Restated Certificate of Incorporation, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to the Roper Industries, Inc. Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q filed on August 9, 2007.

4.1     Form of Indenture for Debt Securities, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.2 to the Roper Industries, Inc. Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement on Form S-3 filed November 28, 2003 (File No. 333-110491).

     4.2     Form of Debt Securities (included in Exhibit 4.3). 

4.3     First Supplemental Indenture between Roper Industries, Inc. and SunTrust Bank, dated December 29, 2003, incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 4.1 to the Roper Industries, Inc. Current Report on Form 8-K filed on January 13, 2004.

  31.1      Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Certification of the Chief Executive Officer, filed herewith.
 
 
31.2      Rule 13a-14(a)/15d-14(a), Certification of the Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.
          
  32.1     
Section 1350 Certification of the Chief Executive Officer, filed herewith.
 
  32.1     
Section 1350 Certification of the Chief Financial Officer, filed herewith.