transaction systems in the European operations were replaced with the same integrated system in 1997. The Company's future consolidated operating results and financial condition could be adversely affected if the Company is unable to implement and effectively manage the transition to this new integrated system. 

Because of the foregoing factors, as well as other factors affecting the Company's consolidated operating results and financial condition, past financial performance should not be considered to be a reliable indicator of future performance, and investors should not use historical trends to anticipate results or trends in future periods. In addition, the Company's participation in a highly dynamic industry often results in significant volatility of the Company's common stock price.