ITEM 1. BUSINESS
The Brink’s Company (along with its subsidiaries, “we,” “our,” “Brink’s” or the “Company”), based in Richmond, Virginia, is a leading provider of secure transportation, cash logistics and other security-related services to banks and financial institutions, retailers, government agencies, mints, jewelers and other commercial operations around the world. Brink’s is the oldest and largest secure transportation and cash logistics company in the U.S., and a market leader in many other countries. Our international network serves customers in more than 50 countries and employs approximately 56,900 people. Our operations include approximately 800 facilities and 9,400 vehicles. Our brand, global infrastructure and expertise in security and logistics are important competitive advantages. About 70% of our $3.2 billion in revenues are from outside North America. Over the past several years, we have changed from a conglomerate (with operations in the heavy-weight freight transportation, coal and other natural resource industries) into a company focused solely on the security industry. We completed the spin-off of our home security business in the fourth quarter of 2008 to sharpen the focus on our core business.
Management allocates resources to and makes operating decisions for our operations on a geographic basis. As a result, we changed our reportable segments in the fourth quarter of 2008 to International and North America. Our International segment is comprised of three distinct regions: Europe, Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”); Latin America; and Asia Pacific. Our North America segment includes operations in the U.S. and Canada.
Financial information related to The Brink’s Company, our two operating segments (International and North America), and former operations is included in the consolidated financial statements on pages 57-104.
A significant portion of our business is conducted outside of the United States. Financial results are reported in U.S. dollars and are affected by fluctuations in the relative value of foreign currencies. Our business is also subject to other risks customarily associated with operating in foreign countries including changing labor and economic conditions, political instability, restrictions on repatriation of earnings and capital, as well as nationalization, expropriation and other forms of restrictive government actions. The future effects of these risks cannot be predicted. Additional information about risks associated with our foreign operations is provided on pages 10, 36 and 56.
We have significant liabilities associated with our retirement plans, a portion of which has been funded. These liabilities increased $465 million in 2008 primarily as a result of a significant decline in the value of the investments of these plans. See pages 26, 43 and 47 - 51 for more information on these liabilities. Additional risk factors are described on pages 9 - 12.
Available Information and Corporate Governance Documents
The following items are available free of charge on our website (www.brinkscompany.com) as soon as reasonably possible after filing or furnishing them with the Securities and Exchange Commission:
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Annual reports on Form 10-K
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Quarterly reports on Form 10-Q
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Current reports on Form 8-K, and amendments to those reports
In addition, the following documents are also available free of charge on our website:
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Corporate governance policies
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Business Code of Ethics
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The charters of the following Board Committees: Audit and Ethics, Compensation and Benefits, and Corporate Governance and Nominating.
Printed versions of these items will be mailed free of charge to shareholders upon request. Such requests can be made by contacting the Corporate Secretary at 1801 Bayberry Court, P. O. Box 18100, Richmond, Virginia 23226-8100.
General
Our 2008 segment operating profit was $272 million on revenues of $3.2 billion, resulting in a segment operating profit margin of 8.6%. Our revenues and segment operating profit have grown over the last several years.
Our operations are located around the world and most of our revenues (70%) and segment operating profit (79%) are earned outside of North America.
International operations has three regions: Europe, Middle East, and Africa (“EMEA”); Latin America and Asia Pacific. On a combined basis, international operations generated 2008 revenues of $2.2 billion (70% of total) and segment operating profit of $215 million (79% of total). Over the past three years, we have acquired security operations in numerous countries in EMEA and Latin America.
Brink’s EMEA, which generated $1.4 billion or 43% of total 2008 revenues, operates 264 branches in 20 countries. Its largest operations are in France, the Netherlands and Germany. In 2008, France accounted for $698 million or 51% of EMEA revenues (22% of total).
Brink’s Latin America, which generated $801 million or 25% of total 2008 revenues, operates 211 branches in eight countries. Its largest operations are in Venezuela, Brazil and Colombia. In 2008, Venezuela accounted for $351 million or 44% of Latin American revenues (11% of total).
Brink’s Asia-Pacific operates 32 branches in eight countries, and accounted for $72 million or 2% of total 2008 revenues.
North American operations include 184 branches in the U.S. and 52 branches in Canada. North American operations generated 2008 revenues of $932 million (30% of total) and segment operating profit of $57 million (21% of total).
The largest seven Brink’s operations (U.S., France, Venezuela, Brazil, the Netherlands, Colombia and Germany) accounted for $2,345 million or 74% of total 2008 revenues.
Geographic financial information related to long-lived assets is included in the consolidated financial statements on page 75.
Brink’s ownership interests in subsidiaries and affiliated companies ranged from 36% to 100% at December 31, 2008. In some instances, local laws limit the extent of Brink’s ownership interest.
Growth Strategy
Over the past several years, we have expanded largely through internal growth supplemented by acquisitions. Sources of revenue growth over the last three years from existing operations are shown in the following table:
Annual Revenue growth
(a) Organic revenue growth represents revenue growth from existing operations, excluding the effects of changes in currency exchange rates.
We intend to continue to pursue growth through acquisitions as long as we are able to acquire businesses that meet internal metrics for projected growth, profitability and return on investment. We are interested in both new and existing markets for our core business and other security-related businesses. Although there are risks and start-up expenses when entering new markets, we believe that growth through a combination of organic and acquisition is the best long-term strategy.
Services
Our primary services include:
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Cash-in-transit (“CIT”) armored car transportation
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Automated teller machine (“ATM”) replenishment and servicing
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Global Services - arranging secure long-distance transportation of valuables
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Cash Logistics - supply chain management of cash
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Guarding services, including airport security
Brink’s typically provides customized services under separate contracts designed to meet the distinct needs of customers. Contracts usually cover an initial term of at least one year and in many cases one to three years, and generally remain in effect thereafter until canceled by either party.
Core Services (53% of total revenue in 2008)
CIT and ATM Services are core services we provide to customers throughout the world. Core services generated approximately $1.7 billion of revenues in 2008.
CIT We have been serving customers since 1859. Our success in CIT is driven by a combination of rigorous security practices, high quality customer service, risk management expertise and logistics expertise. CIT services generally include the secure transportation of:
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cash between businesses and banks
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cash, securities and other valuables between commercial banks, central banks, and investment banking and brokerage firms
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new currency, coins and precious metals for central banks
ATM Services We manage nearly 81,000 ATM units worldwide for banks and other cash dispensing operators. We provide cash replenishment, monitoring and forecasting capabilities, deposit pick-up and processing services. Advanced online tools deliver consolidated electronic reports for simplified reconciliation.
Value-Added Services (35% of total revenue in 2008)
Our core services, combined with our brand and global infrastructure, provide a substantial platform from which we offer additional value-added services. Value-added services generated approximately $1.1 billion of revenues in 2008.
Global Services With operations spanning approximately 50 countries, Brink’s is a leading global provider of secure long-distance logistics for valuables including diamonds, jewelry, precious metals, securities, currency, high-tech devices, electronics and pharmaceuticals. We typically employ a combination of armored car and secure air transportation to leverage our extensive global network. Our specialized diamond and jewelry operation has offices in the major diamond and jewelry centers of the world.
Cash Logistics Brink’s offers a fully integrated approach to managing the supply chain of cash, from point-of-sale through transport, vaulting, bank deposit and related credit. Cash Logistics services include:
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money processing and cash management services
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deploying and servicing “intelligent” safes and safe control devices, including our patented CompuSafeâ service
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integrated check and cash processing services (“Virtual Vault”)
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check imaging services
Money processing services generally include counting, sorting and wrapping currency. Other currency management services include cashier balancing, counterfeit detection, account consolidation and electronic reporting. Retail and bank customers use Brink’s to count and reconcile coins and currency, prepare bank deposit information, and replenish coins and currency in specific denominations.
Brink’s offers a variety of advanced technology applications including online cash tracking, cash inventory management, check imaging for real-time deposit processing, and a variety of other web-based information tools that enable banks and other customers to reduce costs while improving service to their customers.
CompuSafeâ service offers customers an integrated, closed-loop system for preventing theft and managing cash. We market CompuSafe services to a variety of cash-intensive customers such as convenience stores, gas stations, restaurants, retail chains and entertainment venues. Our service includes the installation of a specialized safe in the customer’s facility. The customer’s employees deposit currency into the safe’s cassettes, which can only be removed by Brink’s personnel. Upon removal, the cassettes are transported to a secure location where contents are verified and transferred for deposit. Our CompuSafe service system features currency recognition counterfeit detection technology, multi-language touch screens and electronic interface between point-of-sale, back-office systems and external banks. Our electronic reporting interface with external banks enables our CompuSafe service customers to receive same-day credit on their cash balances, even if the cash remains on the customer’s premises.
Virtual Vault services combine CIT, Cash Logistics, vaulting and electronic reporting technologies to help banks expand into new markets while minimizing investment in vaults and branch facilities. In addition to secure storage, we process deposits, provide check imaging and reconciliation services, and electronically transmit debits and credits.
We believe the quality and scope of our cash processing and information systems differentiate our Cash Logistics services from competitive offerings.
Other Security Services (12% of total revenue in 2008)
Security and Guarding We protect airports, offices, warehouses, stores, and public venues with electronic surveillance, access control, fire prevention and highly trained patrolling personnel. Other security services generated approximately $0.4 billion of revenues in 2008.
Our guarding services are generally offered in European markets including France, Germany, Luxembourg and Greece. A significant portion of this business involves long-term contracts related primarily to guarding services at airports. Generally, other guarding contracts are for a one-year period, the majority of which are extended. Our security officers are typically stationed at customer sites, and responsibilities include detecting and deterring specific security threats.
Industry and Competition
Brink’s competes with large multinational, regional and smaller companies throughout the world. Our largest multinational competitors are Group 4 Securicor plc (headquartered in the U.K.), Loomis AB, formerly a division of Securitas AB (Sweden), Prosegur, Compania de Seguridad, S.A. (Spain) and Garda World Security Corporation (Canada).
We believe the primary factors in attracting and retaining customers are security expertise, service quality and price. Our competitive advantages include:
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brand name recognition
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reputation for a high level of service and security
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risk management and logistics expertise
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global infrastructure and customer base
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proprietary cash processing and information systems
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high-quality insurance coverage and general financial strength
We believe our cost structure is generally competitive, although certain competitors may have lower costs due to a variety of factors including lower wages, less costly employee benefits, or less stringent security and service standards.
Although Brink’s faces competitive pricing pressure in many markets, we resist competing on price alone. We believe our high levels of service and security differentiate us from competitors.
The availability of high-quality and reliable insurance coverage is an important factor in our ability to attract and retain customers and manage the risks inherent in our business. Brink’s is self-insured for much of the liability related to potential losses of cash or valuables while such items are in our possession. However, we purchase insurance coverage for losses in excess of what we consider to be prudent levels of self-insurance. Our insurance policies cover losses from most causes, with the exception of war, nuclear risk and certain other exclusions typical in such policies.
Insurance for security is provided by different groups of underwriters at negotiated rates and terms. Premiums may fluctuate depending on market conditions. The security loss experience of Brink’s and, to a limited extent, other armored carriers affects our premium rates.
Revenues are generated from charges per service performed or based on the value of goods transported. As a result, revenues are affected by the level of economic activity in our various markets as well as the volume of business for specific customers. CIT contracts generally run for a period of one year. Contracts for Cash Logistics are typically longer. Costs are incurred when preparing to serve a new customer or to transition away from an existing customer. Operating profit is generally stronger in the second half of the year, particularly in the fourth quarter, as economic activity is stronger during this period.
As part of the spin-off of BHS, we also agreed not to compete with BHS in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico with respect to certain activities related to BHS’s security system monitoring and surveillance business until October 31, 2013.
Service Mark and Patents
BRINKS is a registered service mark in the U.S. and certain foreign countries. The BRINKS mark, name and related marks are of material significance to our business. We own patents expiring in 2009 for certain coin sorting and counting machines. We also own patents for safes, including our integrated CompuSafeâ services which expire between 2015 and 2022. These patents provide important advantages to Brink’s. However, Brink’s operations are not dependent on the existence of these patents.
We have agreed to license the Brink’s name. Examples include licenses to a distributor of security products (padlocks, door hardware, etc.) offered for sale to consumers through major retail chains.
We entered into a Brand Licensing Agreement in connection with the spin-off of Brink's Home Securtiy Holdings, Inc. ("BHS"). Under the agreement, BHS licenses the rights to use certain trademarks, including trademarks that contain the word “Brink’s” in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. In exchange for these rights, BHS has agreed to pay a licensing fee equal to 1.25% of its net revenues during the period after the spin-off until the expiration date of the agreement. The license will expire on October 31, 2011, subject to earlier termination upon the occurrence of certain events.
Government Regulation
Our U.S. operations are subject to regulation by the U.S. Department of Transportation with respect to safety of operations, equipment and financial responsibility. Intrastate operations in the U.S. are subject to state regulation. Interprovincial operations in Canada are subject to federal and provincial regulations. Our International operations are regulated to varying degrees by the countries in which we operate.
Employee Relations
At December 31, 2008, our company had approximately 56,900 employees, including approximately 12,100 employees in North America (of whom approximately 1,800 were classified as part-time employees) and approximately 44,800 employees outside North America. At December 31, 2008, Brink’s was a party to 11 collective bargaining agreements in North America with various local unions covering approximately 1,800 employees, almost all of whom are employees in Canada and members of unions affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. The agreements have various expiration dates beginning in 2009 and extending through 2012. Outside of North America, approximately 62% of branch employees are members of labor or employee organizations. We believe our employee relations are satisfactory.
DISCONTINUED OPERATIONS
Brink’s Home Security Holdings, Inc.
BHS offered monitored security services in North America primarily for owner-occupied, single-family residences. To a lesser extent, BHS offered security services for commercial and multi-family properties. BHS typically installed and owned the on-site security systems and charged fees to monitor and service the systems.
On October 31, 2008, we completed the 100% spin-off of BHS. The spin-off of BHS was in the form of a tax-free stock distribution to our shareholders of record as of the close of business on October 21, 2008. We distributed one share of BHS common stock for every share of our common stock outstanding. BHS filed a Registration Statement on Form 10 with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) which provided information about BHS and the spin-off, including historical and pro forma financial information. BHS is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) under the ticker symbol “CFL.” We remain a public company traded on the NYSE and continue to use the ticker symbol “BCO.” We continue to operate our secure transportation and cash management unit.
After the spin-off, we reclassified BHS’ results of operations, including previously reported results and corporate expenses directly related to the spin-off, within discontinued operations.
In connection with the spin-off, we entered into certain agreements with BHS to define responsibility for obligations arising before and after the spin-off, including obligations relating to liabilities of the businesses, employees, taxes and intellectual property. We entered into a Brand Licensing Agreement with BHS. Under the agreement, BHS licenses the rights to use certain trademarks, including trademarks that contain the word “Brink’s” in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. In exchange for these rights, BHS has agreed to pay a licensing fee equal to 1.25% of its net revenues during the period after the spin-off until the expiration date of the agreement. The license will expire on October 31, 2011, subject to earlier termination upon the occurrence of certain events.
We also entered into a Non-Compete Agreement with BHS, which will expire on October 31, 2013, pursuant to which we agreed not to compete with BHS in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico with respect to certain restricted activities specified in the Non-Compete Agreement in which BHS currently is, or is currently planning to be, engaged.
We contributed $50 million in cash to BHS at the time of the spin-off and forgave all the existing intercompany debt owed by BHS to us and our subsidiaries as of the distribution date.
Former Coal Business
We have significant liabilities related to retirement medical plans of our former coal operations, a portion of which have been funded with contributions to a Voluntary Employees’ Beneficiary Association trust (“VEBA”). Some of the obligations have not been funded. We expect to have ongoing expense and cash outflow for these liabilities. See notes 3, 16 and 20 to the consolidated financial statements for more information.
ITEM 1A.
ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS
We are exposed to risk in the operation of our businesses. Some of these risks are common to all companies doing business in the industries in which we operate and some are unique to our business. In addition, there are risks associated with investing in our common stock. These risk factors should be considered carefully when evaluating the company and its businesses.
The weak economy is expected to have a negative impact on demand for our services. Global economic conditions have deteriorated significantly, and demand for our services is expected to be negatively impacted in regions where we provide our services. For example, demand for our services is significantly affected by the amount of discretionary consumer and business spending which historically has displayed significant cyclicality. Further deterioration in general global economic conditions would have a negative impact on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows, although it is difficult to predict the extent and the length of time the economic downturn will affect our business.
The inability to access capital or significant increases in the cost of capital could adversely affect our business. Our ability to obtain adequate and cost effective financing depends on our credit ratings as well as the liquidity of financial markets. A negative change in our ratings outlook or any downgrade in our current investment-grade credit ratings by our rating agencies could adversely affect our cost and/or access to sources of liquidity and capital. Additionally, such a downgrade could increase the costs of borrowing under available credit lines. Disruptions in the capital and credit markets could adversely affect our ability to access short-term and long-term capital. Our access to funds under short-term credit facilities is dependent on the ability of the participating banks to meet their funding commitments. Those banks may not be able to meet their funding commitments if they experience shortages of capital and liquidity. Longer disruptions in the capital and credit markets as a result of uncertainty, changing or increased regulation, reduced alternatives or failures of significant financial institutions could adversely affect our access to capital needed for our business.
We have significant retirement obligations. Poor investment performance of retirement plan holdings could unfavorably affect our liquidity and results of operations. We have substantial pension and retiree medical obligations, a portion of which have been funded. The amount of these obligations is significantly affected by factors that are not in our control, including interest rates used to determine the present value of future payment streams, investment returns, medical inflation rates, participation rates and changes in laws and regulations. Our liabilities for these plans increased by $465 million in 2008 primarily as a result of significant decline in value of plan investments. The funded status of our primary U.S. pension plan was 59% at the end of 2008. As a result, we expect that we will be required to contribute a significant amount of cash to our primary U.S. pension plan in the next several years. This could adversely affect our liquidity and our ability to use our resources to make acquisitions and to otherwise grow our business. We also expect our future net periodic costs of our retirement plans will be adversely affected by the investment losses sustained in 2008. If these investments have additional losses, our future cash requirements and costs for these plans will be further adversely affected.
We have significant operations outside the United States. We currently operate in approximately 50 countries. Revenue outside the U.S. was approximately 70% of total revenue in 2008. We expect revenue outside the U.S. to continue to represent a significant portion of total revenue. Business operations outside the U.S. are subject to political, economic and other risks inherent in operating in foreign countries, such as
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the difficulty of enforcing agreements, collecting receivables and protecting assets through foreign legal systems
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trade protection measures and import or export licensing requirements
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difficulty in staffing and managing widespread operations
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required compliance with a variety of foreign laws and regulations
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changes in the general political and economic conditions in the countries where we operate, particularly in emerging markets
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threat of nationalization and expropriation
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higher costs and risks of doing business in a number of foreign jurisdictions
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limitations on the repatriation of earnings
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fluctuations in equity, revenues and profits due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates, including measures taken by governments to devalue official currency exchange rates
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inflation levels exceeding that of the U.S.
We are exposed to certain risks when we operate in countries that have high levels of inflation, including the risk that
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the rate of price increases for services will not keep pace with cost inflation
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adverse economic conditions may discourage business growth which could affect demand for our services
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the devaluation of the currency may exceed the rate of inflation and reported U.S. dollar revenues and profits may decline.
We try to manage these risks by monitoring current and anticipated political and economic developments and adjusting operations as appropriate. Changes in the political or economic environments of the countries in which we operate could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition and results of operations.
We operate in highly competitive industries. We compete in industries that are subject to significant competition and pricing pressures. We face significant pricing pressures from competitors in most markets. Because we believe we have competitive advantages such as brand name recognition and a reputation for a high level of service and security, we resist competing on price alone. However, continued pricing pressure could impact our customer base or pricing structure and have an adverse effect on results of operations.
Our earnings and cash flow could be materially affected by increased losses of customer valuables. We purchase insurance coverage for losses of customer valuables for amounts in excess of what we consider prudent deductibles and/or retentions. Insurance is provided by different groups of underwriters at negotiated rates and terms. Coverage is available to us in major insurance markets, although premiums charged are subject to fluctuations depending on market conditions. Our loss experience and that of other armored carriers affects premium rates charged to us. We are self-insured for losses below our coverage limits and recognize expense up to these limits for actual losses. Our insurance policies cover losses from most causes, with the exception of war, nuclear risk and various other exclusions typical for such policies. The availability of high-quality and reliable insurance coverage is an important factor in order for us to obtain and retain customers and to manage the risks of our business. If our losses increase, or if we are unable to obtain adequate insurance coverage at reasonable rates, our financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
Restructuring charges may be required in the future. There is a possibility we will take restructuring actions in one of our markets in the future to reduce expenses if a major customer is lost or if recurring operating losses continue. These actions could result in significant restructuring charges at these subsidiaries, including recognizing impairment charges to write down assets, and recording accruals for employee severance and operating leases. These charges, if required, could significantly affect results of operations and cash flows.
We depend heavily on the availability of fuel and the ability to pass higher fuel costs to customers. Fuel prices have fluctuated significantly in recent years. In some periods, our operating profit has been adversely affected because we are not able to immediately offset the full impact of higher fuel prices through increased prices or fuel surcharges. We do not have any long-term fuel purchase contracts, and have not entered into any other hedging arrangements that protect against fuel price increases. A significant increase in fuel costs and an inability to pass increases on to customers or a shortage of fuel could adversely affect our results of operations.
We have certain environmental and other exposures related to our former coal operations. We may incur future environmental and other liabilities that are presently unknown in connection with our former coal operations.
We operate in regulated industries. Our U.S. operations are subject to regulation by the U.S. Department of Transportation with respect to safety of operations and equipment and financial responsibility. Intrastate operations in the U.S. are subject to regulation by state regulatory authorities and interprovincial operations in Canada are subject to regulation by Canadian and provincial regulatory authorities. Our International operations are regulated to varying degrees by the countries in which we operate.
Changes in laws or regulations could require a change in the way we operate, which could increase costs or otherwise disrupt operations. In addition, failure to comply with any applicable laws or regulations could result in substantial fines or revocation of our operating permits and licenses. If laws and regulations were to change or we failed to comply, our business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.
We could be materially affected by an unfavorable outcome related to non-payment of value-added taxes and custom duties. During 2004, we determined that one of our non-U.S. business units had not paid foreign customs duties and value-added taxes with respect to the importation of various goods and services. We have been advised that there could be civil and criminal penalties asserted for the non-payment of these customs duties and value-added taxes. To date no penalties have been asserted. We believe that the range of reasonably possible losses related to customs duties penalties is between $0 and approximately $35 million. These penalties could be asserted at any time. The business unit has discussed this matter with the appropriate government authorities, provided an accounting of unpaid customs duties and taxes and made payments covering its calculated unpaid value added taxes. An adverse outcome in this matter could materially affect our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We have retained obligations from the sale of BAX Global. In January 2006 we sold BAX Global. We retained some of the obligations related to these operations, primarily for taxes owed prior to the date of sale and for any amounts paid related to one pending litigation matter for which losses could be between $0 and $14 million at the date of sale. In addition, we provided indemnification customary for these sorts of transactions. Future unfavorable developments related to these matters could require us to record additional expenses or make cash payments in excess of recorded liabilities. The occurrence of these events could have a material adverse affect on our financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.
We are subject to covenants for credit facilities. We have credit facilities with financial covenants, including a limit on the ratio of debt to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization, limits on the ability to pledge assets, limits on the use of proceeds of asset sales and minimum coverage of interest costs. Although we believe none of these covenants are presently restrictive to operations, the ability to meet the financial covenants can be affected by changes in our results of operations or financial condition. We cannot provide assurance that we will meet these covenants. A breach of any of these covenants could result in a default under existing credit facilities. Upon the occurrence of an event of default under any of our credit facilities, the lenders could cause amounts outstanding to be immediately payable and terminate all commitments to extend further credit. The occurrence of these events would have a significant impact on our liquidity and cash flows.
Acquisitions. One element of our growth strategy is to strengthen our brand portfolio and/or expand our geographic reach through active programs of selective acquisitions. Acquisition opportunities are limited, and acquisitions present risks of failing to achieve efficient and effective integration, strategic objectives and anticipated revenue improvements and cost savings. There can be no assurance that we will be able to acquire attractive businesses on favorable terms, that all future acquisitions will be quickly accretive to earnings or that future acquisitions will be rapidly integrated into existing operations.
Our effective income tax rate could change. We operate in approximately 50 countries, all of which have different income tax laws and associated income tax rates. Our effective income tax rate can be significantly affected by changes in the mix of pretax earnings by country and the related income tax rates in those countries. In addition, our effective income tax rate is significantly affected by the ability to realize deferred tax assets, including those associated with net operating losses. Changes in income tax laws, income apportionment, or estimates of the ability to realize deferred tax assets, could significantly affect our effective income tax rate, financial position and results of operations.
Our performance could be negatively impacted by the spin-off of BHS, which was completed in 2008. In connection with the BHS spin-off, we received both a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) and a favorable opinion from Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP that the spin-off qualifies for tax-free treatment under Section 355 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. However, the IRS could subsequently determine that the spin-off should be treated as a taxable transaction. If the spin-off fails to qualify for tax-free treatment, it could have a material adverse tax impact on us as well as on our shareholders. We also entered into certain agreements with BHS that could potentially affect our ability to conduct our operations in the manner most advantageous to us until the expiration of such agreements. We have agreed to license certain trademarks that contain the word “Brink’s” to BHS until October 31, 2011, subject to earlier termination. We also have agreed not to compete with BHS in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico with respect to certain activities related to BHS’s security system monitoring and surveillance business until October 31, 2013.
Forward-Looking Statements
This document contains both historical and forward-looking information. Words such as “anticipates,” “estimates,” “expects,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “may,” “should” and similar expressions may identify forward-looking information. Forward-looking information in this document includes, but is not limited to, statements regarding expected revenue growth and earnings for The Brink’s Company, including organic revenue growth and operating profit margin in 2009 and long-term organic revenue growth and operating profit margin, the pursuit of growth through acquisitions in new and existing markets, the differentiation of Brink’s Cash Logistics services, Brink’s cost structure, the seasonality of Brink’s operating profit, employee relations, significant liabilities and ongoing expenses and cash outflows related to retirement medical plans of former coal operations, customer demand for Brink’s services, the impact of the global economic slowdown, anticipated expenses related to retirement plans, Brink’s improving position in North America, expected corporate expenses, net, potential changes in foreign currency exchange rates, customer outsourcing efforts, the anticipated effective tax rate for 2009 and the Company’s future tax position, operating profit pressures in Europe, expenses related to former operations, expected trademark royalties from BHS, future interest expense, anticipated dividends from a real estate investment, the impact of exchange rates, the possibility that Venezuela may be considered highly inflationary again, the possibility that Brink’s Venezuela may be subject to less favorable exchange rates or that the bolivar fuerte may be devalued, projected contributions and expense for the primary U.S. pension plan and its expected long-term rate of return, capital expenditures in 2009, future depreciation and amortization, the ability to meet liquidity needs, estimated contractual obligations for the next five years and beyond, future contributions to and use of the VEBA and expected investment returns on funds held by the VEBA, the Company’s borrowing capacity under the Letter of Credit Facility and the Revolving Facility, contractual indemnities associated with the sale of BAX Global and the spin-off of BHS, surety bond renewals and premium levels, the outcome of the issue relating to the non-payment of customs duties and value-added tax by a non-U.S. subsidiary of Brink’s, Incorporated, the outcome of pending litigation and the anticipated financial impact of the disposition of these matters, future realization of deferred tax assets, the carrying value of goodwill, estimated discount rates, the assumed inflation rate for a number of the Company’s benefit plans, the impact of recent and future accounting rule changes, the likelihood of losses due to non-performance by parties to hedging instruments, the use of earnings from foreign subsidiaries and equity affiliates, future recognition of unrecognized tax benefits and uncertain tax positions, and expected future cash payments and expense levels for black lung obligations. Forward-looking information in this document is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and contingencies, which could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those that are anticipated.
These risks, uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of The Brink’s Company and its subsidiaries, include, but are not limited to the impact of a potential global economic slowdown on the Company’s business opportunities, access to the credit markets and funding requirements for pension plans and other employee benefits, the recent market volatility and its impact on the demand for the services of Brink’s, the implementation of investments in technology and value-added services and cost reduction efforts and their impact on revenue and profit growth, the ability to identify and execute further cost and operational improvements and efficiencies in the core business, the ability to cost effectively match customer demand with appropriate resources, the willingness of Brink’s customers to absorb fuel surcharges and other future price increases, the actions of competitors, the Company’s ability to identify strategic opportunities and integrate them successfully, acquisitions and dispositions made in the future, Brink’s ability to integrate recent acquisitions, decisions by the Company’s Board of Directors, regulatory and labor issues and higher security threats, the impact of turnaround actions responding to current conditions in Europe, the return to profitability of operations in jurisdictions where Brink’s has recorded valuation adjustments, the input of governmental authorities regarding the non-payment of customs duties and value-added tax, the stability of the Venezuelan economy and changes in Venezuelan policy regarding exchange rates, the potential for a devaluation of the bolivar fuerte, the absence of the currency conversion project in Venezuela, variations in costs or expenses and performance delays of any public or private sector supplier, service provider or customer, the ability of the Company and its subsidiaries to obtain appropriate insurance coverage, positions taken by insurers with respect to claims made and the financial condition of insurers, safety and security performance, Brink’s loss experience, changes in insurance costs, risks customarily associated with operating in foreign countries including changing labor and economic conditions, currency devaluations, safety and security issues, political instability, restrictions on repatriation of earnings and capital, nationalization, expropriation and other forms of restrictive government actions, costs associated with information technology and other ongoing contractual obligations, costs associated with the purchase and implementation of cash processing and security equipment, changes in the scope or method of remediation or monitoring of the Company’s former coal operations, the timing of the pass-through of certain costs to third parties and the timing of approvals by governmental authorities relating to the disposal of the coal assets, changes to estimated liabilities and assets in
actuarial assumptions due to payments made, investment returns, annual actuarial revaluations, and periodic revaluations of reclamation liabilities, the funding levels, accounting treatment, investment performance and costs of the Company’s pension plans and the VEBA, whether the Company’s assets or the VEBA’s assets are used to pay benefits, projections regarding the number of participants in and beneficiaries of the Company’s employee and retiree benefit plans, black lung claims incidence, the number of dependents of mine workers for whom benefits are provided, actual retirement experience of the former coal operation’s employees, actual medical and legal expenses relating to benefits, changes in inflation rates (including medical inflation) and interest rates, changes in mortality and morbidity assumptions, mandatory or voluntary pension plan contributions, discovery of new facts relating to civil suits, the addition of claims or changes in relief sought by adverse parties, the cash, debt and tax position and growth needs of the Company, the demand for capital by the Company and the availability and cost of such capital, the nature of the Company’s hedging relationships, the financial performance of the Company, utilization of third-party advisors and the ability of the Company to hire and retain corporate staff, changes in employee obligations, overall domestic and international economic, political, social and business conditions, capital markets performance, the strength of the U.S. dollar relative to foreign currencies, foreign currency exchange rates, changes in estimates and assumptions underlying the Company’s critical accounting policies, as more fully described in the section “Application of Critical Accounting Policies” but including the likelihood that net deferred tax assets will be realized, discount rates, expectations of future performance, the timing of deductibility of expenses, inflation, the promulgation and adoption of new accounting standards and interpretations, including SFAS 141(R), SFAS 160, SFAS 16-1, SFAS 162, FSP EITF 03-6-1, and FSP 132(R)-1, anticipated return on assets, inflation, seasonality, pricing and other competitive industry factors, labor relations, fuel prices, new government regulations and interpretations of existing regulations, legislative initiatives, judicial decisions, issuances of permits, variations in costs or expenses and the ability of counterparties to perform. The information included in this document is representative only as of the date of this document, and The Brink’s Company undertakes no obligation to update any information contained in this document.
ITEM 1B.
ITEM 1B. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not applicable.
ITEM 2.
ITEM 2. PROPERTIES
We have property and equipment in locations throughout the world. Branch facilities generally have office space to support operations, a vault to securely process and store valuables and a garage to house armored vehicles and serve as a vehicle terminal. Many branches have additional space to repair and maintain vehicles.
We own or lease armored vehicles, panel trucks and other vehicles that are primarily service vehicles. Our armored vehicles are of bullet-resistant construction and are specially designed and equipped to provide security for the crew and cargo.
The following table discloses leased and owned facilities and vehicles for Brink’s most significant operations as of December 31, 2008.
As of December 31, 2008, we had approximately 7,500 Brink’s-owned CompuSafeâ devices located on customers’ premises, most of which are in North America.
ITEM 3.
ITEM 3. LEGAL PROCEEDINGS
We are involved in various lawsuits and claims in the ordinary course of business. We are not able to estimate the range of losses for some of these matters. We have recorded accruals for losses that are considered probable and reasonably estimable. We do not believe that the ultimate disposition of any of these matters will have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, financial position or results of operations.
ITEM 4.
ITEM 4. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS
Not applicable.
Executive Officers of the Registrant
The following is a list as of February 15, 2009, of the names and ages of the executive and other officers of The Brink’s Company indicating the principal positions and offices held by each. There are no family relationships among any of the officers named.
Executive and other officers of The Brink’s Company are elected annually and serve at the pleasure of its board of directors.
Mr. Cazer is the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of The Brink’s Company. Mr. Cazer was hired on April 7, 2008. He most recently served as Chief Financial Officer of GE Security, a General Electric subsidiary focused on global communication and information technologies for security and life safety products, from April 2005 to April 2008, having previously served as Chief Financial Officer of GE Consumer and Industrial Europe, a General Electric subsidiary engaged in the design, manufacturing and sales of electrical distribution equipment, lighting products and household appliances in Europe, from April 2004 to April 2005, and as Chief Financial Officer of GE Fanuc, a joint venture between General Electric and FANUC of Japan focused on automation and embedded computing, from December 2001 to April 2004.
Mr. Dan was elected President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of The Brink’s Company in February 1998 and was elected Chairman of the Board effective January 1, 1999. He also serves as Chief Executive Officer of Brink’s, Incorporated, a position he has held since July 1993. From August 1992 to July 1993 he served as President of North American operations of Brink’s, Incorporated and as Executive Vice President of Brink’s, Incorporated from 1985 to 1992.
Mr. Lennon was appointed Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer in 2005. Prior to this position, he was the Vice President, Human Resources and Administration from 1990 through 2005.
Mr. Marshall was appointed Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of The Brink’s Company on September 15, 2008. Prior to joining The Brink’s Company, Mr. Marshall was the Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary at Tredegar Corporation from October 2006 to September 2008. Prior to this position, Mr. Marshall was the Assistant General Counsel and Secretary for The Brink’s Company from July 2006 to September 2006. Prior to this position, Mr. Marshall was the Assistant General Counsel and Director-Corporate Governance and Compliance for The Brink’s Company from July 2004 to July 2006. Prior to this position, Mr. Marshall was the Assistant General Counsel for The Brink’s Company from July 2000 to July 2004.
Messrs. Schumacher and Wheatley have served in their present positions for more than the past five years.
Mr. Leon is the Treasurer of The Brink’s Company. Mr. Leon was hired June 12, 2008. Before joining The Brink’s Company, Mr. Leon was the Assistant Treasurer for Universal Corporation from January 2007 to June 2008. Prior to this position, Mr. Leon was the Assistant Treasurer for The Brink’s Company from July 2005 to January 2007. Prior to this position, Mr. Leon had held various financial management positions with The Brink’s Company from February 1998 to July 2005.
PART II
ITEM 5.
ITEM 5. MARKET FOR REGISTRANT’S COMMON EQUITY, RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS AND ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Our common stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “BCO.” As of February 24, 2009, there were approximately 2,900 shareholders of record of common stock.
The dividends declared and the high and low prices of our common stock for each full quarterly period within the last two years are as follows:
We completed the spin-off of BHS on October 31, 2008. See note 15 to the consolidated financial statements for a description of limitations of our ability to pay dividends in the future.
The following table provides information about our common stock repurchases during the quarter ended December 31, 2008.
(1)
On September 14, 2007, the board of directors authorized the repurchase of up to $100 million of common stock from time to time as market conditions warrant and as covenants under existing agreements permit. The program does not require the acquisition of a specific number of shares and may be modified or discontinued at any time.
The following graph compares the cumulative 5-year total return provided to shareholders on The Brink’s Company’s common stock relative to the cumulative total returns of the S&P Midcap 400 index and the S&P Midcap 400 Commercial Services & Supplies Index. The graph tracks the performance of a $100 investment in our common stock and in each index (with the reinvestment of all dividends) from December 31, 2003, through December 31, 2008. The Company previously used the S&P Midcap Diversified Commercial & Professional Services Index, but this index has been discontinued, so the Company has instead used the S&P Midcap 400 Commercial Services & Supplies Index.
Source - Research Data Group, Inc.
Comparison of Five-Year Cumulative Total Return Among
Brink’s Common Stock, the S&P MidCap 400 Index and
the S&P Midcap 400 Commercial Services & Supplies Index (1)
(1)
For the line designated as “The Brink’s Company” the graph depicts the cumulative return on $100 invested in The Brink’s Company’s common stock. For the S&P Midcap 400 Index and the S&P Midcap 400 Commercial Services & Supplies Index, cumulative returns are measured on an annual basis for the periods from December 31, 2003, through December 31, 2008, with the value of each index set to $100 on December 31, 2003. Total return assumes reinvestment of dividends and the reinvestment of proceeds from the sale of the shares received related to the spin-off of our former monitored security business on October 31, 2008. We chose the S&P Midcap 400 Index and the S&P Midcap 400 Commercial Services & Supplies Index because we are included in these indices, which broadly measure the performance of mid-size companies in the United States market.
ITEM 6.
ITEM 6. SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA
Five Years in Review
(a)
Income from discontinued operations reflects the operations and gains and losses, if any, on disposal of our former home security, coal, natural gas, timber, gold, and air freight businesses, as well as the domestic cash handling operations in the United Kingdom. Expenses related to postretirement obligations are recorded as a component of continuing operations after the respective disposal dates. Adjustments to contingent liabilities are recorded within discontinued operations.
(b)
Our 2005 results of operations include a noncash after-tax charge of $5.4 million or $0.10 per diluted share to reflect the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle pursuant to the adoption of FIN 47, Accounting for Conditional Asset Retirement Obligations.
ITEM 7.
ITEM 7. MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
OPERATIONS
The Brink’s Company
Overview
The Brink’s Company offers transportation and logistics management services for cash and valuables throughout the world. These services include armored car transportation, automated teller machine (“ATM”) replenishment and servicing, currency deposit processing and cash management services. Cash management services include cash logistics services (“Cash Logistics”), deploying and servicing safes and safe control devices (e.g. our patented CompuSafe® service), coin sorting and wrapping, integrated check and cash processing services (“Virtual Vault Services”), arranging secure transportation of valuables over long distances and around the world (“Global Services”), and guarding services, including airport security.
Management allocates resources to and makes operating decisions on a geographic basis. As a result, we changed our reportable segments in the fourth quarter of 2008 to International and North America. In 2007, our reportable segments were Brink’s and BHS. Our International segment includes three distinct regions: EMEA, Latin America and Asia Pacific. Our North America segment includes operations in the U.S. and Canada.
We believe that Brink’s has significant competitive advantages including:
·
brand name recognition
·
reputation for a high level of service and security
·
risk management and logistics expertise
·
global infrastructure and customer base
·
proprietary cash processing and information systems
·
high-quality insurance coverage and general financial strength.
We focus our time and resources on service quality, protecting and strengthening our brand, and addressing our risks. We are a premium provider of services in most of the markets we serve. Our marketing and sales efforts are enhanced by the “Brink’s” brand, so we seek to protect and build its value. Since our services focus on handling, transporting, protecting, and managing valuables, we strive to understand and manage risk. Overlaying our approach is an understanding that we must be disciplined and patient enough to charge prices that reflect the value provided, the risk assumed and the need for an adequate return for our investors.
Business environments around the world change constantly. We must adapt to changes in competitive landscapes, regional economies and each customer’s level of business. We balance underlying business risk and the effects of changing demand on the utilization of our resources. As a result, we operate largely on a decentralized basis so local management can react quickly to changes in the business environment.
We measure financial performance on a long-term basis. The key financial factors on which we focus are:
·
Return on capital
·
Revenue and earnings growth
·
Cash flow generation
These and similar measures are critical components of our incentive compensation plans and performance evaluations.
Because of our emphasis on managing risks while providing a high level of service, we believe Brink’s spends more than its competitors on training and retaining employees, as well as on facilities. As a result, we focus our marketing and selling efforts on customers who appreciate the value and breadth of our services, information capabilities, risk management and financial strength.
In order to earn an adequate return on capital, we focus on the effective and efficient use of resources as well as appropriate pricing levels. We attempt to maximize the amount of business that flows through our branches, vehicles and systems in order to obtain the lowest costs possible without compromising safety, security or service. Due to our higher investment in people and processes, we generally charge higher prices than competitors that do not provide the same level of service and risk management.
Despite an extremely challenging business environment in 2008 we achieved an increase in segment operating profit of 40 basis points. We expect 2009 organic revenue growth in the mid to high single-digit range, with a segment operating profit margin close to 8%. We define organic revenue growth as revenue growth excluding changes in revenue earned from newly acquired businesses and changes in revenue due to changes in currency exchange rates. We are targeting long-term organic revenue growth in the high single-digit percentage range and segment operating margin improvement of 50 basis points per year, but these long-term goals depend on an economic recovery. Our goal is to eventually achieve a 10% segment operating margin when economic conditions improve.
The industries we serve have been consolidating. As a result, the demands and expectations of customers in these industries have grown. Customers are increasingly seeking suppliers, such as Brink’s, with broad geographic solutions, sophisticated outsourcing capabilities and financial strength.
Our operating results may vary from period to period. Since revenues are generated from charges per service performed or based on the value of goods transported, they can be affected by both the level of economic activity and the volume of business for specific customers. As contracts generally run for one or more years, costs are incurred to prepare to serve, or to transition away, from a customer. We also periodically incur costs to reduce operations when volumes decline, including costs to reduce the number of employees and close or consolidate branch and administrative facilities. In addition, safety and security costs can vary depending on performance, cost of insurance coverage, and changes in crime rates (i.e. attacks and robberies).
Cash Logistics is a fully integrated solution that proactively manages the supply chain of cash from point-of-sale through bank deposit. The process includes cashier balancing and reporting, deposit processing and consolidation, and electronic information exchange (including “same-day” credit capabilities). Retail customers use Brink’s Cash Logistics services to count and reconcile coins and currency in a secure environment, to prepare bank deposit information, and to replenish customer coins and currency in proper denominations.
Because Cash Logistics involves a higher level of service and more complex activities, customers are charged higher prices, which result in higher margins. The ability to offer Cash Logistics to customers differentiates Brink’s from many of its competitors. As a result, management is focused on continuing to grow Cash Logistics revenue.
Brink’s revenues and related operating profit are generally higher in the second half of the year, particularly in the fourth quarter, because of generally increased economic activity associated with the holiday season. Conversely, margins are typically lower in the first half of the year.
On October 31, 2008, we completed the tax-free spin-off of Brink’s Home Security Holdings, Inc. (“BHS”), our former monitored security business in North America. On August 5, 2007, we sold our domestic cash handling operations in the United Kingdom. On January 31, 2006, we sold BAX Global Inc. (“BAX Global”), a wholly owned freight transportation subsidiary, for approximately $1 billion in cash and recorded a pretax gain of approximately $587 million. See “Discontinued Operations” for a description of the transactions and see “Liquidity and Capital Resources” for a description of the effect of these dispositions on our cash flow and financial position. We have reported the earnings and cash flows of these operations within discontinued operations for all periods presented.
We have significant liabilities associated with our former operations, primarily related to retirement plans, which are partially funded by plan trusts. These trusts sustained market losses during the second half of 2008. As a result, our net liabilities at December 31, 2008, increased substantially compared to the prior year. We expect expenses related to these plans will increase in 2009 as a result of these market losses.
Information about our liabilities related to former operations is contained in the following sections of this report:
·
Results of Operations - Higher Projected Expenses Related to U.S. Retirement Plans on page
·
Liquidity and Capital Resources - Contractual Obligations on page 43
·
Application of Critical Accounting Policies on pages 45-52
·
Notes 3, 16 and 20 to the consolidated financial statements, which begin on page
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Overview of Results
The income items in the above table are reported after tax.
Continuing Operations
Income from continuing operations was higher in 2008 compared to 2007 primarily due to a $48.6 million improvement in segment operating profit driven by strong organic profit growth in our international operations. We also benefited from a $12.4 million gain on the sale of certain assets of our former coal operations, lower expense related to retirement plans, and a lower effective income tax rate. These improvements were partially offset by lower profits in North America, higher corporate expense, increased minority expenses, and an other-than-temporary impairment of our marketable securities.
Compared to 2008, our income from continuing operations in 2009 is expected to be adversely affected by several factors including the continuing global economic slowdown, the absence of profitable work performed in 2008 related to the completed currency conversion project, and higher expenses related to our retirement plans. Offsetting factors include an improving competitive landscape in North America and customer outsourcing initiatives, and lower expected corporate expenses.
Income from continuing operations was higher in 2007 compared to 2006 primarily due to a $39.2 million improvement in segment operating profit driven by our international operations and lower expenses related to former operations. International segment operating profit increased primarily due to growth in Latin America, improved performance in Europe and lower safety and security costs worldwide. Interest expense decreased in 2007 as a result of reduced debt levels. The effective tax rate for 2007 was approximately 1.2 percentage points lower than 2006 largely because of a change in the mix of earnings by jurisdiction.
Discontinued Operations
Income from discontinued operations includes the results of businesses that we have spun off or sold.
Consolidated Review
Segment revenue and operating profit
Revenues in 2008 were higher compared to 2007 as a result of a combination of the effects of organic revenue growth and favorable changes in currency exchange rates. Organic revenue growth includes revenues from the “conversion project” (discussed below). Segment operating profit was higher due to improved performance from our International segment including significant operating profit from the conversion project in the first half of 2008, partially offset by lower results from our North America segment.
Compared to 2008, income from continuing operations in 2009 is expected to be adversely affected by several factors, including:
·
the effects of the current global economic slowdown,
·
the completion in 2008 of the currency conversion project in Venezuela, which generated $51 million in revenues,
·
higher expenses related to retirement plans (see page 26 for more information),
·
a higher tax rate as a result of valuation allowance reversals that occurred in 2008, which are not anticipated in 2009, and
·
potential unfavorable changes in foreign currency exchange rates, including measures taken by governments to devalue official currency exchange rates.
Offsetting these factors, our income from continuing operations in 2009 may be positively affected compared to 2008 by several factors, including:
·
increased opportunities in North America given an improving competitive landscape
·
an acceleration of outsourcing and cost reduction efforts by customers due to the weak economy, which may improve demand for our value-added cash logistics services.
Revenues in 2007 increased from 2006 primarily due to growth in existing operations with particularly strong growth in our International segment. Exchange rate fluctuations affected reported revenues favorably in 2007 compared to 2006. Operating profit was higher in 2007 compared to 2006, largely due to stronger performance in our International segment and lower safety and security costs. In addition, operating profit benefited from the weaker U.S. dollar.
Corporate expense, net
Corporate expense, net, was higher in 2008 compared to 2007 as a result of costs incurred to consider various strategic alternatives, which ultimately resulted in the decision to spin off BHS. Corporate expense, net, also increased due to foreign currency transaction losses related primarily to the remeasurement of foreign currency-denominated intercompany dividends. The increase in expense was partially offset by higher royalty income from BHS after the spin-off. Corporate expense, net, in 2009 is expected to decrease more than one-third from 2008.
Corporate expense, net, in 2007 was higher than 2006 as a result of professional, legal and advisory fees incurred related to initiatives by certain of our shareholders and a proxy contest initiated by MMI Investments, L.P., one of our shareholders, over board of director candidates that were elected at the 2008 annual meeting.
Former Operations
Results of our former operations in 2008 improved compared to 2007 primarily due to a $12.4 million gain on the sale of certain assets of our former coal operations as well as lower expenses related to retirement plans.
Expenses related to former operations in 2007 were $12.6 million lower than 2006 due to lower expenses related to retirement plans.
Income Taxes
Our effective tax rate on income from continuing operations was 23.6% in 2008, 37.0% in 2007 and 38.2% in 2006. The effective tax rate varied from statutory rates in these periods primarily due to the geographical mix of earnings, changes in valuation allowances for deferred tax assets and state income taxes.
We currently estimate our 2009 effective tax rate will be between 30% and 33%, although the actual 2009 effective tax rate could be materially different from this estimate.
Discontinued Operations
On October 31, 2008, we completed the tax-free spin-off of BHS. On August 5, 2007, we sold our United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations. On January 31, 2006, we sold BAX Global for approximately $1 billion in cash resulting in a pretax gain of approximately $587 million. All three of these operations have been reported within discontinued operations for all periods presented.
Revisions to estimated amounts related to contingent liabilities of our former operations, including those related to obligations under the Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Act of 1992 (the “Health Benefit Act”), are recorded in discontinued operations.
In 2006, we recognized:
·
a $148.3 million pretax benefit primarily as a result of a 2006 federal law amending the Health Benefit Act that reduced our obligation for healthcare and death benefits for former coal miners, and
·
a $9.9 million pretax benefit on the settlement of liabilities related to two coal industry multi-employer pension plans.
Higher Projected Expenses Related to U.S. Retirement Plans
Our most significant retirement plans include our primary U.S. pension plan and the retiree medical plans of our former coal business that were collectively bargained with the United Mine Workers of America (the “UMWA”). The market value of the investments used to pay benefits for these retirement plans significantly declined in 2008. As a result of this, our 2009 expense related to our U.S. retirement plans is expected to increase by approximately $36.5 million from 2008 levels (see tables below).
The projected expenses in the following tables are based on a variety of estimates, including actuarial assumptions as of December 31, 2008, as described in the Application of Critical Accounting Policies and in the notes to the consolidated financial statements. These estimated amounts will change in the future to reflect payments made, investment returns, actuarial revaluations, and other changes in estimates. Actual amounts could differ materially from the estimated amounts. See the Application of Critical Accounting Policies on pages 47 to 51 for a sensitivity analysis of how our results could have been different had we selected different assumptions or accounting policies. See the Contractual Obligations table on page 43 for future contributions and cash outflows.
Actual and Projected Expenses (Income) related to U.S. Retirement Plans
(a)Discontinued operations in 2006, 2007 and 2008 include pension expense allocated to BHS. In future years, these will be recorded in continuingoperations within former operations, net.
Segment Operating Results
Overview
Revenues were 16% higher (12% on a constant-currency basis) compared to 2007 primarily as a result of organic revenue growth in Latin America, including revenues from the conversion project. Segment operating profit in 2008 was higher than in 2007 primarily as a result of strong performance in Latin America, including conversion project activities, partially offset by lower results in North America.
International
Revenues increased in 2008 over 2007 in all regions. Revenue increases in EMEA and Latin America were primarily the result of organic revenue growth (including the conversion project) and favorable changes in currency exchange rates. Operating profit in 2008 was higher than 2007 primarily due to the effects of strong volumes in Latin America, including the conversion project. Operating profit in EMEA was higher than 2007 primarily due to favorable changes in currency exchange rates and improved operating results in some countries.
International operating profit in 2009 will be negatively affected by the absence of the highly profitable conversion project.
EMEA. Revenues increased 14% (8% on a constant-currency basis) to $1,358.9 million in 2008 from $1,191.5 million in 2007. Revenues increased as a result of both organic revenue growth and favorable changes in currency exchange rates. Operating profit increased compared to the prior-year period due to favorable changes in currency exchange rates and improved operating results in some countries despite higher labor costs and the overall economic slowdown caused by the global financial crisis, which resulted in decreased volumes as well as recessionary and competitive pricing pressures. The improvement in operating profit also reflects the strong performance of Global Services and lower security costs. We expect pressure on our European operating profit in 2009 as a result of the difficult economic situation and the competitive environment.
Latin America. Revenues increased 35% (32% on a constant-currency basis) to $800.6 million in 2008 from $594.2 million in 2007. Revenues increased primarily due to higher volumes across the region (including significant volumes from the conversion project), normal inflationary price increases and favorable changes in currency exchange rates. Operating profit in 2008 was significantly higher than in 2007 as a result of the effects of the conversion project and solid improvement in Brazil and Argentina.
The Conversion Project
Venezuela changed its national currency from the bolivar to the bolivar fuerte on January 1, 2008, and Brink’s performed additional cash handling services to assist in the conversion. We recognized approximately $51 million in incremental revenues during 2008 associated with the conversion project. The conversion project activities utilized existing assets, personnel and other resources which also serviced normal operations.
Asia-Pacific. Revenues increased 15% (13% on a constant-currency basis) to $71.8 million in 2008 from $62.6 million in 2007. Operating profit in 2008 was higher than in 2007, reflecting improvements in our Global Services operations.
North America
Revenues increased 5% to $932.2 million in 2008 compared to $886.3 million in 2007. Revenues increased primarily in CIT services, driven mainly by higher volumes rather than higher prices. Operating profit in 2008 decreased $13.5 million compared to 2007 due largely to higher spending on labor, fuel, selling, general and administrative expenses and employment-related legal settlement expenses, partially offset by lower expense related to U.S. retirement plans and the benefit of reductions in postretirement benefit obligations in Canada. Expenses allocated to North America related to the primary U.S. pension plan are expected to increase by $4.2 million in 2009.
Overview
Revenues at Brink’s were 16% higher in 2007 compared to 2006 primarily as a result of a combination of the effects of organic revenue growth, and favorable changes in currency exchange rates. Operating profit in 2007 was higher than 2006 largely as a result of strong performance in Latin America, particularly in Venezuela, Brazil and Colombia, improved performance in Europe and lower safety and security costs.
International
Revenues increased in 2007 over 2006 in all regions except for Asia-Pacific. Increased revenues in EMEA and Latin America were primarily the result of organic revenue growth and favorable changes in currency exchange rates. Revenue decreased in Asia-Pacific primarily due to the loss of a major customer in Australia during the second quarter of 2006. International operating profit in 2007 was higher due to the effects of strong volumes in Latin America.
EMEA. Revenues increased to $1,191.5 million in 2007 from $1,003.1 million in 2006, an increase of $188.4 million or 19% (9% on a constant-currency basis) largely as a result of organic revenue growth and favorable changes in currency exchange rates.
Operating profit increased 24% in 2007 compared to 2006 due to improved results in several countries, partially offset by $2.1 million of impairment charges recorded on long-lived assets and $2.4 million of restructuring charges.
Latin America. Revenues increased to $594.2 million in 2007 from $454.2 million in 2006, an increase of 31% (24% on a constant-currency basis). This increase was due primarily to price increases in economies with relatively higher levels of inflation and higher volumes. Increases in volume were a reflection of the overall improvement in Latin American economies. Operating profit in 2007 was 38% higher than in 2006 due to the above-mentioned price and volume increases, and cost reduction and productivity improvements across the region.
Asia-Pacific. Revenues decreased to $62.6 million in 2007 from $67.0 million in 2006, a decrease of 7% (9% on a constant-currency basis). This decrease was primarily due to the loss of Australia’s largest customer during the second quarter of 2006, partially offset by stronger performance in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Japan.
We restructured our Australian operation in 2006 after the loss of the customer and recorded charges of $4.6 million. The charges principally related to employee severance payments and lease obligations for closed branches. Operating profit in 2007 was slightly lower than 2006, excluding the restructuring charges.
North America
Revenues increased in 2007 compared to 2006 primarily as the result of improvements in all service lines, except U.S. Global Services. Operating profit in 2007 was higher than 2006 as increased operating profit in Canada on higher revenues was partially offset by lower operating profit in the U.S. as a result of increased expenses for sales and marketing, and a lower operating profit contribution from U.S. Global Services operations. Operating profit in 2007 included $1.0 million of other operating income in the U.S. for final settlement of business interruption claims related to Hurricane Katrina.
Supplemental Revenue Analysis - Organic Revenue Growth
(a) Excluding $51 million of revenue from the completed currency conversion project in Venezuela, organic revenue growth for the year ended December 31, 2008, was 10%.
Corporate Expense, Net
Corporate expense, net, in 2008 was higher than 2007 as a result of foreign currency transaction losses, primarily related to the remeasurement of foreign currency-denominated intercompany dividends, and costs incurred to consider various strategic alternatives, which ultimately resulted in the decision to spin-off our monitored security business. These factors were partially offset by higher royalty income. For the use of our brand, we earn a licensing fee from BHS equal to 1.25% of BHS’ net revenues during the three years ending October 31, 2011, unless the licensing agreement is terminated before the three-year period elapses. Assuming the agreement is not terminated early, we expect that the royalties could range from $6 million to $7 million in each of 2009 and 2010, and $5 million to $6 million in 2011.
In 2009, corporate expense, net, is expected to decrease by more than one-third from 2008. The expected decline is primarily due to the non-recurrence of costs related to strategic reviews and proxy matters, reduced currency exchange transaction losses, a full year of royalty income from the licensing agreement with BHS and cost control actions. The cost control actions include reduction of discretionary expenditures, elimination of certain positions in our headquarters, freezing the salaries of our top executives and reducing fees paid to vendors.
Corporate expense, net, in 2007 was higher than 2006 as a result of professional, legal and advisory fees incurred related to initiatives by certain of our shareholders and a proxy contest initiated by MMI Investments, L.P., one of our shareholders, over board of director candidates that were elected at the 2008 annual meeting.
Former Operations, Net
(a) included in continuing operations.
Results of our former operations in 2008 were significantly better than last year primarily due to a $12.4 million gain on the sale of certain assets of our former coal operations. Additionally, expenses were less due to lower costs related to pension and retirement medical plans. Expenses in 2009 related to these obligations are expected to increase significantly primarily due to the decline in the market value of plan assets in 2008 (see page 26 for more information). Information about cash funding requirements of the plan is available in the Contractual Obligations table on page 43.
Expenses from former operations decreased in 2007 due to lower expenses related to pension and retirement medical plans.
Other Operating Income, Net
Other operating income, net, is a component of segment operating profit, corporate expense, net, and former operations, net.
Other operating income, net, included $8.6 million of higher foreign currency transaction losses in 2008. The increase was primarily related to the remeasurement of foreign currency-denominated intercompany dividends.
On November 14, 2008, we completed the sale of certain coal assets to Massey Energy Company (“Massey”) for $10.2 million in cash and the buyer’s assumption of related leasehold and reclamation liabilities. We recognized a gain of $12.4 million on this transaction in 2008, and we deferred $4 million in gains pending the formal transfer of liabilities. Massey has also agreed to purchase other assets and related leasehold rights, pending satisfaction of certain conditions.
As described in the analysis of corporate expense, net, above, we recognized $1 million of royalty income from BHS in 2008 and expect to receive additional royalties in the next three years unless the agreement is terminated before it expires.
Nonoperating Income and Expense
Interest Expense
Interest expense in 2008 was higher than in 2007 due to higher average debt levels. Interest expense in 2007 was lower than in 2006 due to lower average debt levels. We expect that interest expense will be higher in 2009 due to anticipated higher average debt levels.
Interest and Other Income, Net
Interest income was higher in 2008 than in 2007 primarily due to higher average levels of cash and cash equivalents, and interest income was lower in 2007 than in 2006 due to lower average levels of marketable securities. Average levels of marketable securities were higher in 2006 as a result of the sale of BAX Global.
In 2008, we recognized a $7.1 million other-than-temporary impairment loss on marketable securities. We concluded the impairment of the securities was not temporary based on the length of time and the degree to which the fair value had been below the securities’ $26.3 million cost basis.
Dividend income from a real estate investment was higher in 2006 due to higher real estate activity. We do not expect to receive significant dividends on our real estate investment in 2009.
We made a $1.6 million make-whole payment associated with the prepayment of the Senior Notes in 2006.
Income Taxes
Overview
Our effective tax rate has varied in the past three years from the statutory U.S. federal rate due to various factors, including:
·
changes in judgment about the need for valuation allowances
·
changes in the geographical mix of earnings
·
timing of benefit recognition for uncertain tax positions
·
state income taxes
We establish or reverse valuation allowances for deferred tax assets depending on all available information including historical and expected future operating performance of our subsidiaries. Changes in judgment about the future realization of deferred tax assets can result in significant adjustments to the valuation allowances. Based on our historical and future expected taxable earnings, we believe it is more likely than not that we will realize the benefit of the deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances.
We currently believe the effective income tax rate in 2009 will be approximately 30% to 33%. The actual 2009 effective tax rate could be materially different from this estimate.
Continuing Operations
The effective income tax rate on continuing operations in 2008 was lower than the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate due to a net $13.6 million decrease in our valuation allowance position in U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions as a result of our assessment of historical and future taxable income in these jurisdictions. In addition, there was a $13.0 million decrease in the non-U.S. tax provision, primarily due to the geographical mix of earnings in the foreign jurisdictions.
The effective income tax rate on continuing operations in 2007 was higher than the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate primarily due to a $6.5 million increase related to a net increase in the valuation allowance for non-U.S. deferred tax assets partly offset by a $2.3 million decrease in the foreign tax provision primarily due to the geographical mix of earnings in the foreign jurisdictions.
The effective income tax rate on continuing operations in 2006 was higher than the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate primarily due to a $4.9 million net increase in the valuation allowance for non-U.S. deferred tax assets, primarily related to European operations and $3.4 million of state income tax expense. This was partly offset by a $2.6 million decrease in the foreign tax provision primarily due to the geographical mix of earnings in the foreign jurisdictions and $2.1 million of favorable permanent tax benefits related to tax-exempt income.
Discontinued Operations
Discontinued operations include the tax provision or benefit associated with former businesses, including the resolution of contingent tax matters.
The effective tax rate in 2008 was higher than the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate primarily due to $3 million of state tax expense related to BHS’ operations and $4.3 million for professional fees related to the BHS spin-off that are not deductible for tax.
The effective tax rate in 2007 was higher than the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate due to $3.4 million of tax benefits not recognized related to losses at Brink’s United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations and $2.2 million of state taxes related to the BHS’ operations.
The effective tax rate in 2006 was higher than the 35% U.S. statutory tax rate due to $8.6 million of state taxes and $3.5 million of tax benefits not recognized related to losses at Brink’s United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations.
Other
As of December 31, 2008, we have not recorded U.S. federal deferred income taxes on the majority of our undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries in accordance with Accounting Principles Board Opinion 23, Accounting for Income Taxes - Special Areas, as amended. We expect that these earnings will be permanently reinvested in operations outside the U.S. It is not practical to compute the estimated deferred tax liability on these earnings.
Minority Interest
The increase in minority interest in the last two years is primarily due to increases in the earnings of our Venezuelan subsidiaries, which are not wholly owned.
Discontinued Operations
(a)
Revenues of BHS were $442.4 million in 2008 (partial year), $484.4 million in 2007 and $439.0 million in 2006.
(b)
Revenues of the United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations were $28.9 million in 2007 (partial year) and $44.3 million in 2006.
(c)
Revenues of BAX Global were $230.0 million in 2006 (partial year). In accordance with SFAS 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, BAX Global ceased depreciating and amortizing long-lived assets after November 2005, the date that BAX Global was classified as held for sale. Had BAX Global not ceased depreciation and amortization, its pretax income would have been $3.3 million lower in 2006.
BHS Spin-off
On October 31, 2008, we completed the 100% spin-off of BHS, our former monitored security business in North America. The spin-off of BHS was in the form of a tax-free stock distribution to our shareholders of record as of the close of business on October 21, 2008. We distributed one share of BHS common stock for every share of our common stock outstanding.
We contributed $50 million in cash to BHS at the time of the spin-off. We also forgave all the existing intercompany debt owed by BHS to us as of the distribution date.
After the spin-off, we reclassified BHS’ results of operations, including previously reported results and corporate expenses directly related to the spin-off, within discontinued operations.
United Kingdom Domestic Cash Handling Operations
During 2007, we sold Brink’s United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations for $2.2 million in cash and recognized a $1.5 million gain on the sale. These operations recorded a $7.5 million impairment charge in 2007, primarily related to writing down leasehold improvements and vehicles to estimated fair value due to the loss of customers. These operations have been reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
BAX Global
On January 31, 2006, we sold BAX Global, a wholly owned freight transportation subsidiary, for approximately $1 billion in cash, resulting in a pretax gain of approximately $587 million ($375 million after tax). The operating results of BAX Global’s operations through the date of sale have been classified as discontinued operations.
Interest Expense
Interest expense included in discontinued operations was $0.3 million in 2008, $0.6 million in 2007 and $1.3 million in 2006. Interest expense recorded in discontinued operations includes only interest on third-party borrowings made directly by BHS, BAX Global and Brink’s United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations.
Adjustments to Contingent Assets and Liabilities of Former Operations
Adjustments to contingent assets and liabilities related to former operations, including those related to reclamation matters, worker’s compensation claims, multi-employer pension plan withdrawal liabilities, the Health Benefit Act liabilities and remaining legal contingencies are reported within discontinued operations.
Health Benefit Act Liabilities. We are obligated to pay premiums to the United Mine Workers of America Combined Benefit Fund pursuant to rules established by the Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Act of 1992, as amended (the “Health Benefit Act”). The Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 (the “2006 Act”) substantially reduced our Health Benefit Act obligations and provided elective mechanisms to reduce the impact of joint and several liability on us and our assets. We recorded a $148.3 million pretax gain within discontinued operations during 2006 primarily due to the effects of the 2006 Act.
Withdrawal Liabilities. In 2006, we settled our multi-employer pension withdrawal liabilities related to our former coal operations and made final payments to the plans of $20.4 million, resulting in a $9.9 million pretax gain recognized in discontinued operations.
Foreign Operations
We operate in approximately 50 countries outside the U.S., each with a local currency other than the U.S. dollar. Because our financial results are reported in U.S. dollars, they are affected by changes in the value of various foreign currencies in relation to the U.S. dollar. Changes in exchange rates may also affect transactions which are denominated in currencies other than the functional currency. From time to time, we use foreign currency forward contracts to hedge transactional risks associated with foreign currencies, as discussed in Item 7A
ITEM 7A. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK
The Company’s operations have activities in approximately 50 countries. These operations expose the Company to a variety of market risks, including the effects of changes in interest rates, commodity prices and foreign currency exchange rates. These financial and commodity exposures are monitored and managed by the Company as an integral part of its overall risk management program.
The Company periodically uses various derivative and non-derivative financial instruments, as discussed below, to hedge its interest rate, commodity prices and foreign currency exposures when appropriate. The risk that counterparties to these instruments may be unable to perform is minimized by limiting the counterparties used to major financial institutions with investment grade credit ratings. The Company does not expect to incur a loss from the failure of any counterparty to perform under the agreements. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments for purposes other than hedging underlying financial or commercial exposures.
The sensitivity analyses discussed below for the market risk exposures were based on the facts and circumstances in effect at December 31, 2008. Actual results will be determined by a number of factors that are not under management’s control and could vary materially from those disclosed.
Interest Rate Risk
The Company uses both fixed and floating rate debt and leases to finance its operations. Floating rate obligations, including the Company’s Revolving Facility, expose the Company to fluctuations in cash flows due to changes in the general level of interest rates. Fixed rate obligations, including the Company’s Dominion Terminal Associates debt, are subject to fluctuations in fair values as a result of changes in interest rates.
Based on the contractual interest rates on the floating rate debt at December 31, 2008, a hypothetical 10% increase in rates would increase cash outflows by approximately $0.2 million over a twelve-month period. In other words, the Company’s weighted average interest rate on its floating rate instruments was 2.4% per annum at December 31, 2008. If that average rate were to increase by 0.2 percentage points to 2.6 %, the cash outflows associated with these instruments would increase by $0.2 million annually. The effect on the fair value of the Company’s Dominion Terminal Associates debt for a hypothetical 10% decrease in the yield curve from year-end 2008 levels would result in a $3.5 million increase in the fair value of this debt.
Foreign Currency Risk
The Company has exposure to the effects of foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations on the results of all of its foreign operations. The Company’s foreign operations generally use local currencies to conduct business but their results are reported in U.S. dollars.
The Company is exposed periodically to the foreign currency rate fluctuations that affect transactions not denominated in the functional currency of domestic and foreign operations. To mitigate these exposures, the Company, from time to time, enters into foreign currency forward contracts. At December 31, 2008, no foreign currency forward contracts were outstanding. The Company does not use derivative financial instruments to hedge investments in foreign subsidiaries since such investments are long-term in nature.
The effects of a hypothetical simultaneous 10% appreciation in the U.S. dollar from year-end 2008 levels against all other currencies of countries in which the Company has continuing operations are as follows:
(a) Reflected in the consolidated statements of income.
(b) Reflected in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss).
The hypothetical foreign currency effects above detail the consolidated impact of a simultaneous change in the value of a large number of foreign currencies relative to the U. S. dollar. The foreign currency exposure impact related to a change in an individual currency could be significantly different.
ITEM 8.
ITEM 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SUPPLEMENTARY DATA
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2008
MANAGEMENT’S REPORT ON INTERNAL CONTROL OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
Management of the Company is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting as defined in Rule 13a-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is designed to provide reasonable assurance to the Company’s management and board of directors regarding the preparation and fair presentation of published financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Therefore, even those systems determined to be effective can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to financial statement preparation and presentation.
Management assessed the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008. In making this assessment, management used the criteria set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO) in “Internal Control - Integrated Framework.” Based on our assessment, we believe that, as of December 31, 2008, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting is effective based on those criteria.
KPMG LLP, the independent registered public accounting firm which audits the Company’s consolidated financial statements, has issued an attestation report of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. KPMG’s attestation report appears on page 59.
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
The Brink’s Company:
We have audited The Brink’s Company’s (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.
We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.
A company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company's internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.
In our opinion, The Brink’s Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of The Brink’s Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2008, and our report dated March 2, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Richmond, Virginia
March 2,
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
The Board of Directors and Shareholders
The Brink’s Company:
We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of The Brink’s Company and subsidiaries (the Company) as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the related consolidated statements of income, comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2008. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of The Brink’s Company and subsidiaries as of December 31, 2008 and 2007, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2008, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.
As disclosed in note 1 to the consolidated financial statements, the Company adopted the provisions of Financial Accounting Standards Board Interpretation No. 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes, effective January 1, 2007, Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, effective December 31, 2006, and Securities and Exchange Commission Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 108, Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements, effective December 31, 2006.
We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), The Brink’s Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO), and our report dated March 2, 2009 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
/s/ KPMG LLP
Richmond, Virginia
March 2,
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
and subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
and subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
and subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
and subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Shareholders’ Equity
Years Ended December 31, 2008, 2007 and 2006
(a)
Includes 1.7 million shares at December 31, 2007, held by The Brink’s Company Employee Benefits Trust that were not allocated to
participants (2.3 million shares at December 31, 2006, and 1.2 million shares at December 31, 2005). The trust was terminated in 2008 (see note 15).
(b)
Includes amounts classified as discontinued operations.
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
and subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.
THE BRINK’S COMPANY
and subsidiaries
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Note 1 - Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Basis of Presentation
The Brink’s Company (along with its subsidiaries, “Brink’s” or the “Company”), based in Richmond, Virginia, is a leading provider of secure transportation, cash logistics and other security-related services to banks and financial institutions, retailers, government agencies, mints, jewelers and other commercial operations around the world. Brink’s is the oldest and largest secure transportation and cash logistics company in the U.S., and a market leader in many other countries.
On October 31, 2008, the Company distributed all of its interest in Brink’s Home Security Holdings, Inc. (“BHS”) to the Company’s stockholders of record as of the close of business on October 21, 2008, in a tax-free distribution. BHS offered monitored security services in North America primarily for owner-occupied, single-family residences and, to a lesser extent, commercial properties.
Net assets for BHS as of October 31, 2008, were as follows:
On January 31, 2006, the Company sold BAX Global Inc. (“BAX Global”), a wholly owned freight transportation subsidiary, for approximately $1 billion in cash and recorded a pretax gain of approximately $587 million. On August 5, 2007, the Company sold Brink’s United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations. Each of these operations has been reported within discontinued operations for all periods presented. In prior years, the Company sold its natural resource businesses and interests, and adjustments to contingent liabilities of these former operations have also been reported within discontinued operations. The Company has significant liabilities associated with its former coal operations and expects to have ongoing expenses and cash outflows related to these obligations. See notes 3, 16 and 20.
Principles of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of The Brink’s Company and the subsidiaries it controls. Control is determined based on ownership rights or, when applicable, based on whether the Company is considered to be the primary beneficiary of a variable interest entity. The Company’s interest in 20%- to 50%-owned companies that are not controlled are accounted for using the equity method (“equity affiliates”), unless the Company does not sufficiently influence the management of the investee. Other investments are accounted for as cost-method investments or as available-for-sale marketable securities. All significant intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation.
Revenue Recognition
Brink’s. Revenue is recognized when services related to armored car transportation, ATM servicing, cash logistics, coin sorting and wrapping and the secure transportation of valuables are performed. Customer contracts have prices that are fixed and determinable and the Company assesses the customer’s ability to meet the contractual terms, including payment terms, before entering into contracts. Customer contracts generally are automatically extended after the initial contract period until either party terminates the agreement.
BHS (discontinued operation). Monitoring revenues were recognized monthly as services were provided pursuant to the terms of subscriber contracts, which had contract prices that were fixed and determinable. BHS assessed the subscriber’s ability to meet the contract terms, including payment terms, before entering into the contract. Generally, nonrefundable installation revenues and a portion of the related direct costs of acquiring new subscribers (primarily sales commissions) were deferred and recognized over an estimated 15 year subscriber relationship period. When an installation was identified for disconnection, any unamortized deferred revenues and deferred costs related to that installation were recognized at that time.
BAX Global (discontinued operation). Revenues related to transportation services were recognized, together with related variable transportation costs, on the date shipments departed from facilities en route to destination locations. BAX Global and its customers agreed to the terms of the shipments, including pricing, prior to shipment. Pricing terms were fixed and determinable, and BAX Global only agreed to shipments when it believed that the collectibility of related billings was reasonably assured. Export freight service revenues were shared among the origin and destination countries.
Taxes collected from customers. Taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are not included in revenues in the consolidated statements of income.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, demand deposits and investments with original maturities of three months or less.
Marketable Securities
The Company has marketable securities held as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 designated as available-for-sale securities for purposes of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) 115, Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities. Unrealized gains and losses on available-for-sale securities are generally reported in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until realized. Declines in value judged to be other-than-temporary are reported in interest and other income, net.
Trade Accounts Receivable
Trade accounts receivable are recorded at the invoiced amount and do not bear interest. The allowance for doubtful accounts is the Company’s best estimate of the amount of probable credit losses on the Company’s existing accounts receivable. The Company determines the allowance based on historical write-off experience. The Company reviews its allowance for doubtful accounts quarterly. Account balances are charged off against the allowance after all means of collection have been exhausted and the potential for recovery is considered remote.
Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are recorded at cost. Depreciation is calculated principally on the straight-line method based on the estimated useful lives of individual assets or classes of assets.
Leased property and equipment meeting capital lease criteria are capitalized at the lower of the present value of the related lease payments or the fair value of the leased asset at the inception of the lease. Amortization is calculated on the straight-line method based on the lease term.
Leasehold improvements are recorded at cost. Amortization is calculated principally on the straight-line method over the lesser of the estimated useful life of the leasehold improvement or lease term. Renewal periods are included in the lease term when the renewal is determined to be reasonably assured.
Part of the costs related to the development or purchase of internal-use software is capitalized and amortized over the estimated useful life of the software. Costs that are capitalized include external direct costs of materials and services to develop or obtain the software, and internal costs, including compensation and employee benefits for employees directly associated with a software development project.
Estimated Useful Lives
Years
Buildings
to 25
Building leasehold improvements
to 10
Vehicles
to 10
Capitalized software
to 5
Other machinery and equipment
to 10
Machinery and equipment leasehold improvements
to 10
Expenditures for routine maintenance and repairs on property and equipment are charged to expense. Major renewals, betterments and modifications are capitalized and amortized over the lesser of the remaining life of the asset or, if applicable, the lease term.
BHS (discontinued operation) retained ownership of most security systems installed at subscriber locations. Costs for those systems were capitalized and depreciated over the estimated lives of the assets. Costs capitalized as part of security systems included equipment and materials used in the installation process, direct labor required to install the equipment at subscriber sites, and other costs associated with the installation process. These other costs included the cost of vehicles used for installation purposes and the portion of telecommunication, facilities and administrative costs incurred primarily at BHS’ branches that were associated with the installation process. Direct labor and other costs represented approximately 70% of the amounts capitalized, while equipment and materials represented approximately 30% of amounts capitalized. In addition to regular straight-line depreciation expense each period, BHS charged to expense the carrying value of security systems estimated to be permanently disconnected based on each period’s actual disconnects and historical reconnection experience.
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill is recognized for the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of tangible and identifiable intangible net assets of businesses acquired. Intangible assets arising from business acquisitions include customer lists, covenants not to compete, and other identifiable intangibles. Intangible assets that are subject to amortization have, at December 31, 2008, useful lives ranging from 1 to 8 years and are amortized primarily on a straight-line basis.
Impairment of Long-Lived Assets
Goodwill is tested for impairment at least annually by comparing the carrying value of each reporting unit to its estimated fair value. The Company bases its estimates of fair value on projected future cash flows. The Company completed goodwill impairment tests during each of the last three years with no impairment charges required.
Long-lived assets other than goodwill are reviewed for impairment when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value of an asset may not be recoverable.
For long-lived assets other than goodwill that are to be held and used in operations, an impairment is indicated when the estimated total undiscounted cash flow associated with the asset or group of assets is less than carrying value. If impairment exists, an adjustment is made to write the asset down to its fair value, and a loss is recorded as the difference between the carrying value and fair value.
Long-lived assets held for sale are carried at the lower of carrying value or fair value less cost to sell. Fair values are determined based on quoted market values, discounted cash flows or internal and external appraisals, as applicable.
Retirement Benefit Plans
The Company accounts for its pension plans under SFAS 87, Employers’ Accounting for Pensions, as amended. The Company accounts for other retirement benefit plans under SFAS 106, Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions, as amended. See “New Accounting Standards - Adopted Standards,” below for an amendment to SFAS 87 and 106 that was effective December 31, 2006.
Prior to 2007, the Company selected discount rates for its U.S. plan obligations after reviewing published long-term yield information for a small number of high-quality fixed-income securities (e.g. Moody’s Aa bond yields) and yields for the broader range of long-term high-quality securities with maturities in line with expected payments. The Company changed its method of estimating its U.S. discount rates in 2007. As of December 31, 2007, the discount rates used to measure the present value of the Company’s benefit obligations were derived using the cash flow matching method. Under this method, the Company compared the plan’s projected payment obligations by year with the corresponding yields on the Citigroup Pension Discount Curve and the Mercer Yield Curve. Each year’s projected cash flows were then discounted back to their present value at the measurement date and an overall discount rate was determined for each curve; the average of the two discount rates was selected and rounded to the nearest tenth of a percentage point. The effect of the change in estimate was to increase other comprehensive income in 2007 by $46.3 million. The Company revised its method of estimating its discount rates for its U.S. plan obligations in 2008 to use only the Mercer Yield Curve. The discount rates selected in 2008 for its U.S. plans would have been the same under the 2007 method. The Company uses a similar approach to the 2008 method for its U.S. plans to select the discount rates for its major non-U.S. plans. For the other non-U.S. plans, the discount rates are developed based on a bond index within the country of domicile.
Assets of pension and other retirement benefit plans are invested primarily using actively managed accounts of equities, which include a broad array of market capitalization sizes and investment styles, and fixed income securities. The Company’s policy does not permit certain investments, including investments in The Brink’s Company common stock, unless part of a commingled fund. Assets are rebalanced on a quarterly basis if actual allocations of assets are outside predetermined ranges. Among other factors, the performance of asset groups and investment managers will affect the long-term rate of return.
The Company selects the expected long-term rate of return assumption for its U.S. pension plan and retiree medical plans using advice from its investment advisor and its actuary considering the plan’s asset allocation targets and expected overall investment manager performance and a review of its most recent long-term historical average compounded rate of return.
Benefit plan experience gains and losses are recognized in other comprehensive income (loss). Accumulated net benefit plan experience gains and losses that exceed 10% of the greater of a plan’s benefit obligation or plan assets at the beginning of the year are amortized into earnings from other comprehensive income (loss) on a straight-line basis. The amortization period for pension plans is the average remaining service period of employees expected to receive benefits under the plans. The amortization period for other retirement plans is primarily the average remaining life expectancy of inactive participants.
Income Taxes
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded to recognize the expected future tax benefits or costs of events that have been, or will be, reported in different years for financial statement purposes than tax purposes. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the difference between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which these items are expected to reverse. Management periodically reviews recorded deferred tax assets to determine if it is more-likely-than-not that they will be realized. If management determines it is not more-likely-than-not that a deferred tax asset will be realized, an offsetting valuation allowance is recorded, reducing comprehensive income (loss) and the deferred tax asset in that period. See “New Accounting Standards - Adopted Standards” below for more information.
Foreign Currency Translation
The Company’s consolidated financial statements are reported in U.S. dollars. The Company’s foreign subsidiaries maintain their records primarily in the currency of the country in which they operate. Assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries are translated into U.S. dollars using rates of exchange at the balance sheet date. Translation adjustments are recorded in other comprehensive income (loss). Revenues and expenses are translated at rates of exchange in effect during the year. Transaction gains and losses are recorded in net income.
Concentration of Credit Risks
Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risks are principally cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivables. Cash and cash equivalents are held by major financial institutions. The Company routinely assesses the financial strength of significant customers and this assessment, combined with the large number and geographic diversity of its customers, limits the Company’s concentration of risk with respect to accounts receivable.
Use of Estimates
In accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), management of the Company 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 consolidated financial statements. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates. The most significant estimates used by management are related to goodwill and other long-lived assets, pension and other retirement benefit obligations, deferred tax assets and foreign currency translation.
New Accounting Standards
Adopted Standards
In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (“SFAS”) 157, Fair Value Measurements. SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value under GAAP, and expands disclosure of fair value measurements. SFAS 157 emphasizes that fair value is a market-based measurement, not an entity-specific measurement, and states that a fair value measurement should be determined based on assumptions that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability. The Company adopted SFAS 157, effective January 1, 2008, for financial assets and financial liabilities. The implementation of SFAS 157, as it relates to the Company’s financial assets and financial liabilities did not have a material effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.
In February 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position 157-2, Partial Deferral of the Effective Date of SFAS 157, which delayed the effective date of SFAS 157 for all nonrecurring fair value measurements of nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities until January 1, 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the potential impact, if any, on its non-financial assets and liabilities.
The Company adopted SFAS 159, The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Liabilities - Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115, effective January 1, 2008. SFAS 159 permits entities to choose to measure certain financial assets and liabilities at fair value (the “fair-value option”). Unrealized gains and losses, arising subsequent to the election of the fair-value option, are reported in earnings. The Company did not elect the fair-value option for any existing assets or liabilities upon adoption. Therefore, the implementation of SFAS 159 did not have an effect on the Company’s results of operations or financial position.
The Company adopted FASB Interpretation (“FIN”) 48, Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes - an interpretation of SFAS 109, effective January 1, 2007. This interpretation clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an entity’s financial statements in accordance with SFAS 109, Accounting for Income Taxes. It prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for financial statement disclosure of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The adoption of this interpretation increased retained earnings at January 1, 2007, by $7.0 million.
The Company adopted SFAS 123(R), Share-Based Payment, effective January 1, 2006. Prior to adopting SFAS 123(R), the Company accounted for share-based compensation using the intrinsic-value method under Accounting Principles Board Opinion 25, Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees, as permitted by SFAS 123, Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation, the predecessor to SFAS 123(R). Under the intrinsic-value method no share-based compensation cost was recognized as all options granted had an exercise price equal to the market value of the underlying common stock on the date of grant. SFAS 123(R) eliminates the use of the intrinsic-value method of accounting and requires companies to recognize the cost of employee services received in exchange for awards of equity instruments based on the fair value of those awards. In addition, SFAS 123(R) requires additional accounting and disclosures for the income tax and cash flow effects of share-based payment arrangements.
The Company adopted SFAS 123(R) using the “modified prospective” transition method. Under the modified prospective transition method, the Company began recognizing share-based compensation costs on January 1, 2006, but did not restate prior periods. The amount of compensation cost recognized was computed based on the requirements of SFAS 123(R) for share-based awards granted, modified or settled in 2006, and based on the requirements of SFAS 123 for the unvested portion of awards granted prior to 2006. Under SFAS 123(R), cash flows from the benefit of tax deductions for stock options in excess of compensation cost are classified in the consolidated statements of cash flows as a financing activity. In addition, under SFAS 123(R), the Company did not separately report The Brink’s Company Employee Benefits Trust (the “Employee Benefits Trust”) in its consolidated statement of shareholders’ equity and consolidated balance sheet; it was offset with capital in excess of par value until the Employee Benefits Trust was terminated in 2008. See note 15 for more information.
The Company adopted SFAS 158, Employers’ Accounting for Defined Benefit Pension and Other Postretirement Plans - an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88, 106, and 132(R), effective December 31, 2006. Prior to the adoption of SFAS 158, the Company accounted for its pension plans under SFAS 87, Employers’ Accounting for Pensions, as previously amended, and for its UMWA retiree medical plans and black lung obligations under SFAS 106, Employers’ Accounting for Postretirement Benefits Other Than Pensions, as previously amended. SFAS 158 requires companies to recognize the funded status of a defined benefit retirement plan (other than a multi-employer plan) as an asset or liability in its balance sheet and to recognize changes in funded status through comprehensive income (loss) in the year in which the changes occur. The adoption of SFAS 158 reduced the amount of consolidated equity reported by the Company as of December 31, 2006, by $162.9 million. In addition, SFAS 158 requires current liability classification when the actuarial present value of benefits payable in the next twelve months exceeds the fair value of plan assets. See note 3 for more information.
The changes in the balance sheet at December 31, 2006, arising from the adoption of SFAS 158 are included below:
The Company adopted Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) Staff Accounting Bulletin 108, effective December 31, 2006, which is codified as SAB Topic 1.N, Considering the Effects of Prior Year Misstatements when Quantifying Misstatements in Current Year Financial Statements. SAB 108 requires companies to quantify misstatements using both a balance sheet and an income statement approach (“dual method” approach) and to evaluate whether either approach results in an error that is material in light of relevant quantitative and qualitative factors. Prior to the adoption of SAB 108, the Company evaluated errors using only the income statement approach.
The Company had previously identified that it had been incorrectly applying its accounting policy for recording impairment charges upon subscriber disconnects at BHS. Prior to the adoption of SAB 108, the Company determined this incorrect application was not material to the financial statements using the income statement approach. The correction of this application was considered material using the dual method approach due to the impact on the trend of segment operating profit of BHS. Upon adoption of SAB 108, to correctly apply its accounting policy to subscriber disconnects, the Company recorded a $3.8 million ($2.4 million after tax) increase to retained earnings in 2006.
Standards Not Yet Adopted
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 141(R), Business Combinations. SFAS 141(R) establishes requirements for an acquirer to record the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any related noncontrolling interest related to the acquisition of a controlled subsidiary, measured at fair value as of the acquisition date. The Company is required to adopt SFAS 141(R) in the first quarter of 2009. In 2008, the Company expensed all acquisition costs for transactions that were expected to close in 2009. The Company is currently evaluating the further potential impact, if any, of the adoption of SFAS 141(R) on the Company’s results of operations and financial position.
In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS 160, Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements - An Amendment of ARB No. 51. SFAS 160 establishes new accounting and reporting standards for the noncontrolling interest, also known as minority interest, in a subsidiary and for the deconsolidation of a subsidiary. SFAS 160 clarifies that a noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary is an ownership interest in the consolidated entity that should be reported as equity in the consolidated financial statements. At December 31, 2008, the Company’s minority interest was $91.3 million. SFAS 160 is effective for the Company beginning in 2009. The Company is still assessing the potential effect of the adoption of SFAS 160 on its results of operations or financial position.
In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 161, Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008 (the Company’s fiscal year 2009). SFAS 161 requires enhanced disclosures about an entity's derivative and hedging activities. The Company does not believe the adoption of SFAS 161 will have a material impact on its financial statements.
In May 2008, the FASB issued SFAS 162, The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. SFAS 162 identifies the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles to be used in the preparation of financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP SFAS 162 is effective 60 days following the SEC’s approval of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board amendments to AU Section 411, The Meaning of Present Fairly in Conformity With Generally Accepted Accounting Principles. The Company does not believe the adoption of SFAS 162 will have a material impact on its results of operations or financial position.
In June 2008, the FASB issued FASB Staff Position ("FSP") EITF 03-6-1, Determining Whether Instruments Granted in Share-Based Payment Transactions Are Participating Securities, which is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. FSP EITF 03-6-1 affects entities that accrue cash dividends (whether paid or unpaid) on share-based payment awards during the award’s service period for dividends that are nonforfeitable. The FASB concluded that unvested awards containing rights to nonforfeitable dividends are participating securities. Because unvested awards containing such rights are considered participating securities, issuing entities will be required to compute basic and diluted earnings per share under the two-class method. The Company is required to adopt FSP EITF 03-6-1 in the first quarter of 2009. The Company does not believe the adoption of FSP EITF 03-6-1 will have a material effect on its financial statements.
In December 2008, the FASB issued FSP 132(R)-1, Employers’ Disclosures about Postretirement Benefit Plan Assets, which is effective for fiscal years ending after December 15, 2009 (the Company’s fiscal year 2010). FSP 132(R)-1 requires disclosures about fair value measurements of plan assets that would be similar to the disclosures about fair value measurements required by SFAS 157. The Company is assessing the potential effect of the adoption of FSP 132(R)-1 on its financial statements.
Note 2 - Segment Information
SFAS 131, Disclosures about Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information, establishes standards for reporting information about operating segments. Segments are identified by the Company based on how resources are allocated and operating decisions are made. Management evaluates performance and allocates resources based on operating profit or loss, excluding corporate allocations. Although the Company had four operating segments at December 31, 2008, under the aggregation criteria set forth in SFAS 131, the Company conducts business in two geographic reportable segments: International and North America. Prior to the spin-off of BHS in October of 2008, the Company's two reportable segments were Brink’s and BHS.
The primary services of the reportable segments include:
·
Cash-in-transit (“CIT”) armored car transportation
·
Automated teller machine (“ATM”) replenishment and servicing
·
Money processing
·
Global Services - arranging secure long-distance transportation of valuables
·
Cash Logistics - supply chain management of cash; from point-of-sale through transport, vaulting and bank deposit
·
Guarding services, including airport security
Brink’s operates in approximately 50 countries.
(a)
Long-lived assets include property and equipment, net; goodwill; other intangible assets, net; and deferred charges.
(b)
Includes $689.2 million in 2007 and $615.4 million in 2006 related to BHS, principally in the United States.
Revenues are recorded in the country where service is initiated or performed. No single customer represents more than 10% of total revenue.
(a)
Includes net liabilities of $2.6 million in 2007 and $3.7 million in 2006 related to BHS Canadian operations.
(b)
Includes $129.6 million of net assets at December 31, 2008, held by Venezuelan subsidiaries. The transfer of these assets outside of Venezuela requires government approval if paid using official exchange rates. Transferring these net assets outside of Venezuela at the less-favorable market rate is not subject to government approval.
Undistributed earnings of equity affiliates included in consolidated retained earnings approximated $8.1 million at December 31, 2008, $8.1 million at December 31, 2007, and $7.1 million at December 31, 2006.
Note 3 - Retirement Benefits
The Company has various defined-benefit pension plans covering eligible current and former employees. Benefits under most plans are based on salary and years of service.
The Company’s policy is to fund at least the minimum actuarially determined amounts required by applicable regulations.
The Company has retained the obligations and assets related to the participation of BHS employees in the Company’s U.S. pension plans. Pension expenses for BHS employees for the years presented have been included in discontinued operations. After October 31, 2008, the spin-off date, pension expenses related to participation by BHS employees in U.S. pension plans were included in continuing operations.
The Brink’s Canada Pension Plan included BHS participants prior to the spin-off. After the spin-off of BHS, the Company executed a partial termination of the Brink’s Canada Pension Plan with respect to the BHS participants. The Company expects to pay lump sum distributions or purchase annuities for all BHS participants in 2009 for their accrued-to-date benefits. Pension expenses for BHS participation in the Brink’s Canada Pension Plan for the years presented have been included in discontinued operations.
The weighted-average assumptions used in determining the net pension cost and benefit obligations for the Company’s pension plans were as follows:
(a)
Salary scale assumptions are determined through historical experience and vary by age and industry.
(b)
The U.S. plan benefits were frozen at December 31, 2005, and pension benefit payments will be based on salaries earned through December 31, 2005.
The RP-2000 Combined Healthy Blue Collar mortality table and the RP-2000 Combined Healthy White Collar mortality table were used to estimate the expected lives of participants in the U.S. pension plans. Expected lives of participants in non-U.S. pension plans were estimated using mortality tables in the country of operation.
The net pension cost for the Company’s pension plans is as follows:
(a)
Amounts related to BHS participants in U.S. plans are shown in discontinued operation for all years presented. However, in 2009 and later years, these costs will be shown in continuing operations as the Company has
retained the liabilities related to these participants.
Changes in the projected benefit obligation (“PBO”) and plan assets for the Company’s pension plans are as follows:
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) of the Company’s pension plans are as follows:
The Company estimates that $11.7 million of experience loss and $1.5 million of prior service cost will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net pension cost during 2009.
The actuarial loss in 2008 was primarily due to the return on assets being lower than expected. The actuarial gain in 2007 was primarily due to higher discount rates.
Information comparing plan assets to plan obligations as of December 31, 2008 and 2007 are aggregated below. The ABO differs from the PBO in that the ABO is based on the benefit earned through the date noted. The PBO includes assumptions about future compensation levels for plans that have not been frozen.
The Company’s weighted-average asset allocations at December 31, 2008 and 2007 by asset category are as follows:
(a)
Targets for non-U.S. asset allocations are weighted averages.
Based on December 31, 2008, data, assumptions and funding regulations, the Company is not required to make a contribution to the primary U.S. plan for the fiscal year 2009. There are limits to the amount of benefits which can be paid to participants from a U.S. qualified pension plan. The Company maintains a nonqualified U.S. plan to pay benefits for those eligible current and former employees in the U.S. whose benefits exceed the regulatory limits.
The Company expects to contribute approximately $3.6 million to its nonqualified U.S. pension plan and $10 million to its non-U.S. pension plans in 2009.
The Company’s projected benefit payments at December 31, 2008, for each of the next five years and the aggregate five years thereafter are as follows:
Termination Benefits
The Company periodically restructures operations and is required to pay termination benefits pursuant to contractual or legal requirements. These termination benefits are recorded pursuant to the provisions of SFAS 88, Employers’ Accounting for Settlement and Curtailments of Defined Benefit Pension Plans and Termination Benefits.
During 2007, one of the Company’s European subsidiaries resized its operations and accrued $2.4 million in termination benefits.
During 2006, the Company’s Australian subsidiary lost its largest customer. The Company took actions to restructure the subsidiary in the second and third quarters, and recorded charges of $2.6 million for termination benefits.
Multi-employer Pension Plans
The Company contributes to multi-employer pension plans in a few of its non-U.S. subsidiaries. Multi-employer pension expense for continuing operations was $2.1 million in 2008, $2.0 million in 2007 and $1.8 million in 2006. See note 16 for a description of the gain recognized in discontinued operations related to the withdrawal of multi-employer pension plans of the Company’s former coal business.
Savings Plans
The Company sponsors various defined contribution plans to help eligible employees provide for retirement. Employees’ eligible contributions to the primary U.S. 401(k) plan are matched at 125% up to 5% of their pay. Participants were formerly allowed to invest in common stock of the Company, but in January 2008, all Company stock investments were reallocated to other investments. The Company’s matching contribution expense is as follows:
Retirement Benefits Other than Pensions
Summary
The Company provides retirement health care benefits for eligible current and former employees in the U.S. and Canada, including former employees of the former coal operations. Retirement benefits related to the former coal operation include medical benefits provided by the Pittston Coal Group Companies Employee Benefit Plan for UMWA Represented Employees (the “UMWA plans”) as well as costs related to Black Lung obligations.
The accumulated postretirement benefit obligation (“APBO”) for each of the plans was determined using the unit credit method and an assumed discount rate as follows:
For UMWA plans, the assumed health care cost trend rate used to compute the 2008 APBO is 7.6% for 2009, declining ratably to 5% in 2013 and thereafter (in 2007: 8.2% for 2008 declining ratably to 5% in 2013 and thereafter). For the black lung obligation, the assumed health care cost trend rate used to compute the 2008 and 2007 APBO was 8.0%. Other plans in the U.S. provide for fixed-dollar value coverage for eligible participants and, accordingly, are not adjusted for inflation.
The RP-2000 Employee, Annuitant, Blue Collar and Combined Healthy Blue Collar mortality tables are primarily used to estimate expected lives of participants.
The components of net periodic postretirement cost related to retirement benefits were as follows:
(a) In January 2008, Brink’s announced the freezing of the Canadian retirement benefit plan.
Changes in the APBO and plan assets related to retirement health care benefits are as follows:
Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) of the Company’s retirement benefit plans other than pensions are as follows:
The Company estimates that $20.3 million of experience loss and $0.3 million of prior service credit will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net periodic postretirement cost during 2009.
The table below shows the estimated effects of a one percentage point change in the assumed health care cost trend rates for each future year.
The Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the “Medicare Act”) provides for a prescription drug benefit under Medicare as well as a federal subsidy to sponsors of retiree health care benefit plans that provide a benefit that is at least actuarially equivalent to Medicare prescription drug benefits. Because of the broadness of coverage provided under the Company’s plan, the Company believes that the plan benefits are at least actuarially equivalent to the Medicare benefits. The estimated effect of the legislation has been recorded as a reduction to the APBO, as permitted by FSP 106-1, Accounting and Disclosure Requirements Related to the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003. The estimated value of the projected federal subsidy assumes no changes in participation rates and assumes that the subsidy is received in the year after claims are paid. The estimated reduction in per capita claim costs for participants over 65 years old was 8%.
The Company’s net periodic postretirement costs were approximately $5.5 million lower in 2008, $5.7 million lower in 2007 and $6.2 million lower in 2006 due to the Medicare Act as a result of lower interest cost and amortization of losses. The estimated net present value of the subsidy, reflected as a reduction to the APBO, was approximately $54 million at December 31, 2008, and $51 million at December 31, 2007.
The Company recognized an actuarial loss in 2008 associated with the UMWA obligations primarily related to the return on assets being lower than expected.
The Company recognized an actuarial gain in 2007 associated with the UMWA obligations primarily related to the increase in the discount rate.
The Company’s asset allocations for investments in the VEBA trust at December 31, 2008 and 2007 by asset class are as follows:
In January 2006, the Company contributed $225 million to the VEBA with a portion of the proceeds from the sale of BAX Global. The Company determines whether it will make other discretionary contributions on an annual basis, although it does not currently expect to make further significant contributions in the next several years.
The Company’s projected benefit payments at December 31, 2008, for each of the next five years and the aggregate five years thereafter are as follows:
Note 4 - Income Taxes
The Company’s U.S. entities file a consolidated U.S. federal income tax return. The U.S. federal current income tax benefit on continuing operations in 2006 was offset by U.S. federal current tax expense included in income from discontinued operations.
Rate Reconciliation
The following table reconciles the difference between the actual tax provision from continuing operations and the amounts obtained by applying the statutory U.S. federal income tax rate of 35% in each year to the income from continuing operations before income taxes.
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
(a) Includes $101.2 million of deferred tax assets and $136.1 million of deferred tax liabilities in 2007 related to BHS.
Valuation Allowances
Valuation allowances relate to deferred tax assets in various federal, state and non-U.S. jurisdictions. Based on the Company’s historical and expected future taxable earnings, and a consideration of available tax-planning strategies, management believes it is more likely than not that the Company will realize the benefit of the existing deferred tax assets, net of valuation allowances, at December 31, 2008.
(a)
Includes amounts charged to income from continuing and discontinued operations and is based on beginning-of-year balances of deferred tax assets.
(b)
Includes $145.5 million related to tax benefits of U.S. retirement plans’ net experience losses that were not deemed to be more likely than not of being realized.
Undistributed Foreign Earnings
As of December 31, 2008, the Company has not recorded U.S. federal deferred income taxes on approximately $311 million of undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries and equity affiliates. It is expected that these earnings will be permanently reinvested in operations outside the U.S. It is not practical to compute the estimated deferred tax liability on these earnings.
Net Operating Losses
The gross amount of the net operating loss carryforwards as of December 31, 2008, was $146.1 million. The tax benefit of net operating loss carryforwards, before valuation allowances, as of December 31, 2008, was $35.8 million, and expires as follows:
Uncertain Tax Positions
As described in note 1, effective January 1, 2007, the Company adopted FIN 48 and recorded a cumulative-effect adjustment of $7.0 million, reducing the amount of unrecognized tax benefits, interest, and penalties and increasing the balance of retained earnings.
A reconciliation of the beginning and ending amount of unrecognized tax benefits is as follows:
Included in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2008, are potential benefits of approximately $15.4 million that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate on income from continuing operations. Also included in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2008, are benefits of approximately $1.4 million that, if recognized, would impact the effective tax rate on income from discontinued operations.
The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense. Interest and penalties included in income tax expense amounted to $0.9 million in 2008 and $1.0 million in 2007. The Company had accrued penalties and interest of $2.2 million at December 31, 2008, and $2.4 million at December 31, 2007.
The Company and its subsidiaries file income tax returns in the U.S. federal, and various state and foreign jurisdictions. With few exceptions, as of December 31, 2008, the Company was no longer subject to U.S. federal, state and local, or non-U.S. income tax examinations by tax authorities for years before 2005. However, it is reasonably possible that unrecognized tax benefits for previously amended tax returns in the amount of $7.2 million will be recognized by the end of 2009. Additionally, due to statute of limitations expirations and audit settlements, it is reasonably possible that approximately $1.1 million of currently remaining unrecognized tax positions, each of which are individually insignificant, may be recognized by the end of 2009.
Note 5 - Property and Equipment
The following table presents the Company’s property and equipment that is classified as held and used:
(a) Includes $606.0 million related to BHS in 2007.
Amortization of capitalized software costs included in continuing operations was $14.2 million in 2008, $14.1 million in 2007 and $12.6 million in 2006.
Note 6 - Acquisitions
The Company has acquired security operations in various countries over the last three years.
These acquisitions have been accounted for as business combinations. Under the purchase method of accounting, assets acquired and liabilities assumed from these operations are recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition. The consolidated statements of income include the results of operations for each acquired entity from the date of acquisition. The results of the acquired operations were not material to the Company’s consolidated statements of income for the periods presented.
Note 7 - Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill
Goodwill resulted from acquiring businesses the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2008 and 2007 are as follows:
(a)
Purchase accounting adjustment occurring in the year following the acquisition and adjustments to valuation allowances for deferred tax assets.
Other Intangible Assets
The Company’s other intangible assets are included in other assets on the balance sheet (see note 8) and consist primarily of customer lists and covenants not to compete.
Note 8 - Other Assets
(a)
The Company recorded an other-than-temporary impairment of $7.1 million on its marketable securities in the fourth quarter of 2008, primarily due to the length of time and severity of the decrease in fair value below cost.
(b) Includes $83.2 million of deferred subscriber acquisition costs related to BHS in 2007.
Marketable securities consisted of the following as of December 31, 2008 and 2007:
(In millions)
Cost (a)
Gross Unrealized Gains
Gross Unrealized Losses
Fair Value
December 31, 2008
Mutual funds
$
19.2
-
-
19.2
Other
-
0.9
-
0.9
Marketable securities
$
19.2
0.9
-
20.1
December 31, 2007
Mutual funds
$
24.3
0.7
-
25.0
Other
0.1
1.2
-
1.3
Marketable securities
$
24.4
1.9
-
26.3
(a)
Cost adjusted for impairment.
There were no marketable securities in an unrealized loss position for more than 12 months as of December 31, 2008 or 2007.
Note 9 - Accrued Liabilities
(a) Includes $74.2 million related to BHS in 2007.
Note 10 - Other Liabilities
(a) Includes $10.7 million related to BHS in 2007.
Note 11 - Long-Term Debt
The Company has an unsecured $400 million revolving bank credit facility (the “Revolving Facility”) with a syndicate of banks. The Revolving Facility’s interest rate is based on LIBOR plus a margin, prime rate, or competitive bid. The Revolving Facility allows the Company to borrow (or otherwise satisfy credit needs) on a revolving basis over a five-year term ending in August 2011. As of December 31, 2008, $293.2 million was available under the Revolving Facility. Amounts outstanding under the Revolving Facility were denominated primarily in U.S. dollars and lesser amounts in Canadian dollars as of December 31, 2008.
The margin on LIBOR borrowings under the Revolving Facility which can range from 0.140% to 0.575%, depending on the Company’s credit rating, was 0.350% at December 31, 2008. When borrowings and letters of credit under the Revolving Facility are in excess of $200 million, the applicable interest rate is increased by 0.100% or 0.125%. The Company also pays an annual facility fee on the Revolving Facility based on the Company's credit rating. The facility fee, which can range from 0.060% to 0.175%, was 0.100% at the end of 2008.
On July 23, 2008, the Company entered into a definitive agreement for a new unsecured $135 million letter of credit facility with a bank (the “Letter of Credit Facility”) that became effective in the third quarter of 2008. This replaced a previous $150 million letter of credit facility that was terminated in the third quarter of 2008. As of December 31, 2008, $3.6 million was available under the 2008 Facility. The Letter of Credit Facility expires in July 2011. The Revolving Facility and the multi-currency revolving credit facilities (described below) are also used for the issuance of letters of credit and bank guarantees.
The Company has two unsecured multi-currency revolving bank credit facilities with a total of $50.0 million in available credit, of which approximately $27.7 million was available at December 31, 2008. Interest on these facilities is based on LIBOR plus a margin. The margin ranges from 0.140% to 0.675%. A $10 million facility expires in December 2009 and a $40 million facility expires in December 2011. The Company also has the ability to borrow from other banks under short-term uncommitted agreements. Various foreign subsidiaries maintain other lines of credit and overdraft facilities with a number of banks.
Minimum repayments of long-term debt are as follows:
Capital Leases
Property under capital leases are included in property and equipment as follows:
The Revolving Facility, the Letter of Credit Facility and the two unsecured multi-currency revolving bank credit facilities contain subsidiary guarantees. The Revolving Facility, the Letter of Credit Facility and the multi-currency revolving bank credit facilities also contain various financial and other covenants. The financial covenants, among other things, limit the Company’s total indebtedness, limit asset sales, limit the use of proceeds from asset sales and provide for minimum coverage of interest costs. The credit agreements do not provide for the acceleration of payments should the Company’s credit rating be reduced. If the Company were not to comply with the terms of the Company’s various loan agreements, the repayment terms could be accelerated and the commitments could be withdrawn. An acceleration of the repayment terms under one agreement could trigger the acceleration of the repayment terms under the other loan agreements. The Company was in compliance with all financial covenants at December 31, 2008.
The Company has guaranteed $43.2 million of bonds issued by the Peninsula Ports Authority of Virginia. The guarantee originated as part of the Company’s former interest in Dominion Terminal Associates, a deep water coal terminal. The Company continues to pay interest on and guarantee payment of the $43.2 million principal amount and ultimately will have to pay for the retirement of the bonds in accordance with the terms of the guarantee. The bonds bear a fixed interest rate of 6.0% and mature in 2033. The bonds may mature prior to 2033 upon the occurrence of specified events such as the determination that the bonds are taxable or the failure of the Company to abide by the terms of its guarantee.
At December 31, 2008, the Company had undrawn unsecured letters of credit and guarantees totaling $163.1 million, including $131.4 million issued under the Letter of Credit Facility, and $17.0 million issued under the multi-currency revolving bank credit facilities. These letters of credit primarily support the Company’s obligations under various self-insurance programs and credit facilities.
Fair Value
The fair value of the Company’s floating-rate short-term and long-term debt approximates the carrying amount. The fair value of the Company’s significant fixed rate long-term debt is described below. Fair value is estimated by discounting the future cash flows using rates for similar debt instruments at the valuation date.
Note 12 - Accounts Receivable
(a) Includes $38.1 million related to BHS in 2007.
(a)
Includes amounts charged to income from continuing and discontinued operations.
Note 13 - Operating Leases
The Company leases facilities, vehicles, computers and other equipment under long-term operating and capital leases with varying terms. Most of the operating leases contain renewal and/or purchase options. The Company expects that in the normal course of business, the majority of operating leases will be renewed or replaced by other leases.
As of December 31, 2008, future minimum lease payments under noncancellable operating leases with initial or remaining lease terms in excess of one year are included below.
Most of the vehicles in North America are leased. These leases contain residual value guarantees. The Company’s maximum residual value guarantee was $60.4 million at December 31, 2008. If the Company continues to renew the leases and pays the lease payments for the vehicles that have been included in the above table, this residual value guarantee will reduce to zero at the end of the final renewal period. In addition, the Company has $4.9 million of maximum guaranteed residuals on another operating lease.
Net rent expense included in continuing operations amounted to $97.2 million in 2008, $87.3 million in 2007 and $75.7 million in 2006.
Note 14 - Share-Based Compensation Plans
The Company has share-based compensation plans to encourage employees and nonemployee directors to remain with the Company and to more closely align their interests with those of the Company’s shareholders.
The 2005 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2005 Plan”) permits grants of stock options, restricted stock, stock appreciation rights, performance stock and other share-based awards to employees. Through December 31, 2008, only stock options and restricted stock units have been granted under the 2005 Plan. The Company has outstanding stock options granted to employees under a prior stock incentive plan, the 1988 Stock Option Plan (the “1988 Plan”).
The Company provides share-based awards to directors through the Non-Employee Directors’ Equity Plan (the “Directors’ Plan”). Only deferred stock units have been granted under the Directors’ Plan in 2008. The Company has outstanding stock options granted to directors under a prior plan, the Non-Employee Directors’ Stock Option Plan (the “Prior Directors’ Plan”).
General Terms
Options are granted at a price not less than the average quoted market price on the date of grant. Options granted to employees have a maximum term of six years. All grants of options and restricted stock units to employees under the 2005 Plan either vest over three years from the date of grant or at the end of the third year. Share-based awards granted under the 2005 Plan continue to vest if an employee retires under one of the Company’s pension plans.
Deferred stock units granted under the Directors’ Plan vest in full one year from the date of grant or upon termination of service. Under the Prior Directors’ Plan, options granted had a maximum term of ten years and vested in full at the end of six months.
If a change in control were to occur (as defined in the plan documents), certain awards may become immediately vested.
Spin-Off of BHS
Outstanding options, restricted stock units and deferred stock units held by employees and directors remaining with the Company were adjusted at the date of the spin-off of BHS such that the intrinsic value of the award immediately before the spin-off was equal to the intrinsic value of the award immediately after the spin-off. Additionally, for options, the ratio of the exercise price to the market price immediately before the spin-off was equal to the ratio of the exercise price to the market price immediately after the spin-off. No incremental compensation cost resulted from the adjustment to the outstanding awards since the fair values of the awards immediately before the spin-off were either equal to or greater than the fair values of the awards immediately after the spin-off, as measured in accordance with the provisions of SFAS 123(R).
Outstanding options and deferred stock units held by BHS employees and directors transferring to BHS were canceled upon completion of the BHS spin-off.
Option Activity
The table below summarizes the activity in all plans for options of the Company’s common stock.
(a) Related to BHS employees and directors.
(b) The number of options expected to vest takes into account an estimate of expected forfeitures. A forfeiture rate of 8% was used in 2008, 2007 and 2006to estimate the number of options for which vesting is not expected to occur.
The intrinsic value of a stock option is the difference between the market price of the shares underlying the option and the exercise price of the option. The market price at December 31, 2008, was $26.88 per share. The total intrinsic value of options exercised was $19.7 million ($35.24 per share) in 2008, $17.8 million ($36.42 per share) in 2007, and $20.5 million ($27.37 per share) in 2006. Excluding the 2006 modified options, the total fair value of options vested was $9.9 million for 2008, $7.9 million for 2007 and $4.8 million for 2006.
There were 1.1 million shares of exercisable options with a weighted-average exercise price of $35.50 per share at December 31, 2007, and 0.9 million shares of exercisable options with a weighted-average exercise price of $26.31 per share at December 31, 2006.
Method and Assumptions Used to Estimate Fair Value of Options
The fair value of each stock option grant is estimated at the time of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. If a different option-pricing model had been used, results may have been different.
The fair value of options that vest entirely at the end of a fixed period, generally three years, is estimated using a single option approach and, except for those granted to employees eligible to retire under one of the Company’s pension plans, is generally amortized on a straight-line basis over the vesting period. The fair value of options that vest ratably over three years is estimated using a multiple-option approach and, except for those granted to employees eligible to retire under one of the Company’s pension plans, is generally amortized on a straight-line basis over each separate vesting period. Options granted under the plans generally provide for continued vesting if the participants were to elect retirement under one of the Company’s pension plans. Upon adoption of SFAS 123(R), compensation cost related to new stock option grants that continue to vest upon retirement is recognized over the period from the grant date to the retirement-eligible date. If the Company had applied this provision prior to the adoption of SFAS 123(R), compensation cost would have been $0.9 million lower in 2007 and $1.8 million lower in 2006. The effect in 2008 of not applying this provision was not significant.
The fair value of options granted and modified during the three years ended December 31, 2008, was calculated using the following estimated weighted-average assumptions. In 2006, the Company recognized compensation expense related to all options held by employees of BAX Global that were modified to accelerate vesting provisions.
(a)
The expected dividend yield was calculated by annualizing the cash dividend declared by the Company and dividing that result by the closing stock price on the date of declaration. Dividends are not paid on options.
(b)
The expected volatility was estimated after reviewing the historical volatility of the Company’s stock using daily close prices.
(c) The risk-free interest rate was based on yields on U.S. Treasury debt at the time of the grant or modification.
(d)
The expected term of the options was based on the Company’s historical option exercise data, option expiration and post-vesting cancellation behavior.
Nonvested Share Activity
Number of
Weighted-Average Grant-Date
Shares
Fair Value (d)
Balance as of January 1, 2008
-
$
-
Granted (a)
43,316
66.27
Cancelled awards (b)
(4,748)
63.22
Adjustment due to spin-off of BHS (c)
32,297
-
Balance as of December 31, 2008
70,865
$
36.27
(a)
Includes 30,259 restricted stock units under the 2005 Plan and 13,057 deferred stock units under the Directors’ Plan.
(b)
Related to BHS directors.
(c)
Includes 25,339 restricted stock units and 6,958 deferred stock units.
(d)
The fair value of each restricted stock unit or deferred stock unit was determined at the time of grant was based on the average of the high and low per share quoted sales prices of the Company’s stock, as reported on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Transactions Tape. Dividends are paid on nonvested restricted stock units and deferred stock units.
There are 3.6 million shares underlying share-based plans that are authorized, but not yet granted.
As discussed in note 1, the Company adopted SFAS 123(R) on January 1, 2006. Compensation expense and the related tax effect recorded in the consolidated statements of income for 2008, 2007 and 2006 is as follows:
(a)
Net of income tax benefit of $0.6 million in 2008, $0.6 million in 2007 and $2.4 million in 2006.
As of December 31, 2008, $3.7 million of total unrecognized compensation cost related to previously granted stock options and nonvested shares is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.6 years.
Other Share-Based Compensation
The Company has a deferred compensation plan that allows participants to defer a portion of their compensation into common stock units. Cumulative units credited to employee accounts were 679,681 at December 31, 2008, and 953,953 at December 31, 2007.
The Company has a stock accumulation plan for its non-employee directors denominated in common stock units. Cumulative units credited under the plan were 67,993 at December 31, 2008, and 47,749 at December 31, 2007.
Note 15 - Capital Stock
Common Stock
At December 31, 2008, the Company had 100 million shares of common stock authorized and 45.7 million shares issued and outstanding.
Share Purchases
2007 Program. On September 14, 2007, the Company’s board of directors authorized the purchase of up to $100 million of the Company’s outstanding common shares. The repurchase authorization does not have an expiration date. Under the program, the Company used $56.3 million to purchase 883,800 shares of common stock between December 5, 2007, and May 2, 2008, at an average price of $63.67 per share. The Company used an additional $3.9 million to purchase 160,500 shares of common stock in the fourth quarter of 2008, at an average price of $24.03 per share. Through February 4, 2009, the Company used an additional $6.1 million to purchase 234,456 shares of common stock at an average price of $26.20 per share. As of February 4, 2009, the Company had $33.7 million under this program available to purchase shares.
Program. Following the self-tender offer, the board authorized additional Company common stock purchases of up to $100 million from time to time as market conditions warranted and as covenants under existing agreements permitted (the “2006 program”). The 2006 program did not require any specific number of shares be purchased. Under the 2006 program, the Company used $100 million to purchase 1,823,118 shares of common stock between May 22 and October 5, 2006, at an average price of $54.85 per share. The Company has no remaining authority under the 2006 program.
Dutch Auction. On March 8, 2006, the Company’s board of directors authorized a “Dutch auction” self-tender offer to purchase up to 10 million shares of the Company’s common stock. Under certain circumstances up to an additional 2% of the outstanding common stock was authorized to be purchased in the tender offer. The tender offer began on March 9, 2006, and expired on April 6, 2006, and was subject to the terms and conditions described in the offering materials mailed to the Company’s shareholders and filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. On April 11, 2006, the Company purchased 10,355,263 shares in the tender offer at $51.20 per share for a total of approximately $530.2 million in cash. The Company incurred $0.7 million in costs associated with the purchase.
Dividends
The Company paid regular quarterly dividends on its Common Stock during the last three years. On January 22, 2009, the board declared a regular quarterly dividend of 10 cents per share payable on March 2, 2009. Future dividends are dependent on the earnings, financial condition, shareholders’ equity levels, cash flow and business requirements of the Company, as determined by the board of directors.
Employee Benefits Trust
In September 2008, the Company terminated The Brink’s Company Employee Benefits Trust (the “Employee Benefits Trust”). Immediately prior to termination, the shares held by the trust were distributed to the Company and the shares were retired. The purpose of the Employee Benefits Trust (prior to termination) was to hold shares of the Company’s common stock to fund obligations under compensation and employee benefit programs that provided for the issuance of stock. After the termination of the trust, newly issued shares are used to satisfy these programs.
Through 2007, shares of common stock were voted by the trustee in the same proportion as the shares of common stock voted by the Company’s employees participating in the Company’s 401(k) plan. The Company’s 401(k) plan divested all shares of Company common stock in January 2008. After the 401(k) plan divested all shares of Company common stock, shares of the trust were not voted in matters voted on by shareholders.
Preferred Stock
At December 31, 2008, the Company has the authority to issue up to 2.0 million shares of preferred stock, par value $10 per share.
Series A Preferred Stock Rights Agreement
On September 25, 2007, the “Expiration Date” occurred under the Amended and Restated Rights Agreement, dated as of September 1, 2003, between the Company and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company (successor to Equiserve Trust Company, N.A.), as amended by Amendment No. 1 thereto, dated September 25, 2006, between the Company and American Stock Transfer & Trust Company (the “Rights Agreement”). As a result, the Rights Agreement and the rights issued thereunder expired by their own terms and each share of common stock, par value $1.00 per share, of the Company no longer is accompanied by a right to purchase, under certain circumstances, one one-thousandth of a share of Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock of the Company. Prior to expiration, the Rights Agreement gave holders of common stock the right to purchase Series A Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock if, among other things, a third-party accumulated more than 15% of the voting rights of all outstanding common stock.
Shares Used to Calculate Earnings per Share
(a) The Company has deferred compensation plans for its employees and directors denominated in common stock units. Each unit represents one share ofcommon stock. The number of shares used to calculate basic earnings per
share includes the weighted-average units credited to employees and directorsunder the deferred compensation plans. Accordingly, included in basic shares are weighted-average units of 0.7 million in 2008, 1.0 million in 2007
and 1.0 million in 2006.
Shares of the Company’s common stock held by the Employee Benefits Trust in 2007 and 2006 that were not allocated to participants under the Company’s various benefit plans were excluded from earnings per share calculations since they were treated as treasury shares for the calculation of earnings per share. The Employee Benefits Trust held 1.7 million unallocated shares at December 31, 2007, and 2.3 million unallocated shares at December 31, 2006. As discussed above, the trust was terminated in September 2008.
Note 16 - Discontinued Operations
(a)
Revenues of BHS were $442.4 million in 2008 (partial year), $484.4 million in 2007 and $439.0 million in 2006.
(b)
Revenues of the United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations were $28.9 million in 2007 (partial year) and $44.3 million in 2006.
(c)
Revenues of BAX Global were $230.0 million in 2006 (partial year). In accordance with SFAS 144, Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, BAX Global ceased depreciating and amortizing long-lived assets after November 2005, the date that BAX Global was classified as held for sale. Had BAX Global not ceased depreciation and amortization, its pretax income would have been $3.3 million lower in 2006.
BHS Spin-off
On October 31, 2008, the Company completed the 100% spin-off of BHS, the Company’s former monitored security business in North America. The spin-off of BHS was in the form of a tax-free stock distribution to the Company’s shareholders of record as of the close of business on October 21, 2008. The Company distributed one share of BHS common stock for every share of its common stock outstanding.
The Company contributed $50 million in cash to BHS at the time of the spin-off. The Company also forgave all the existing intercompany debt owed by BHS to the Company as of the distribution date.
After the spin-off, the Company reclassified BHS’ results of operations, including previously reported results and corporate expenses directly related to the spin-off, within discontinued operations.
United Kingdom Domestic Cash Handling Operations
During 2007, the Company sold Brink’s United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations for $2.2 million in cash and recognized a $1.5 million gain on the sale. These operations recorded a $7.5 million impairment charge in 2007, primarily related to writing down leasehold improvements and vehicles to estimated fair value due to the loss of customers. These operations have been reported as discontinued operations for all periods presented.
BAX Global
On January 31, 2006, the Company sold BAX Global, a wholly owned freight transportation subsidiary, for approximately $1 billion in cash, resulting in a pretax gain of approximately $587 million ($375 million after tax). The operating results of BAX Global’s operations through the date of sale have been classified as discontinued operations.
Interest Expense
Interest expense included in discontinued operations was $0.3 million in 2008, $0.6 million in 2007 and $1.3 million in 2006. Interest expense recorded in discontinued operations includes only interest on third-party borrowings made directly by BHS, BAX Global and Brink’s United Kingdom domestic cash handling operations.
Adjustments to Contingent Assets and Liabilities of Former Operations
Adjustments to contingent assets and liabilities related to former operations, including those related to reclamation matters, worker’s compensation claims, multi-employer pension plan withdrawal liabilities, the Health Benefit Act liabilities and remaining legal contingencies are reported within discontinued operations.
Health Benefit Act Liabilities. The Company is obligated to pay premiums to the United Mine Workers of America Combined Benefit Fund pursuant to rules established by the Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Act of 1992, as amended (the “Health Benefit Act”). Health Benefit Act liabilities are recorded when they are probable and estimable in accordance with Emerging Issues Task Force (“EITF”) 92-13, Accounting for Estimated Payments in Connection with the Coal Industry Retiree Health Benefit Act of 1992. The Tax Relief and Health Care Act of 2006 (the “2006 Act”) substantially reduced our Health Benefit Act obligations and provided elective mechanisms to reduce the impact of joint and several liability on the Company and its assets. The Company recorded a $148.3 million pretax gain within discontinued operations during 2006 primarily due to the effects of the 2006 Act.
Withdrawal Liabilities. In 2006, the Company settled its multi-employer pension withdrawal liabilities related to the Company’s former coal operations and made final payments to the plans of $20.4 million, resulting in a $9.9 million pretax gain recognized in discontinued operations.
Note 17 - Supplemental Cash Flow Information
(a)
Without the gain on sale of BAX Global and the related use of proceeds, cash paid for income taxes in 2006 would have been approximately $75 million.
Note 18 - Other Operating Income, Net
Other operating income, net, included $8.6 million of higher foreign currency transaction losses in 2008. The increase was primarily related to the remeasurement of foreign currency-denominated intercompany dividends.
On November 14, 2008, the Company completed the sale of certain coal assets to Massey Energy Company (“Massey”) for $10.2 million in cash and the buyer’s assumption of related leasehold and reclamation liabilities. The Company recognized a gain of $12.4 million on this transaction in 2008, and the Company deferred $4 million in gains pending the formal transfer of liabilities. Massey has also agreed to purchase other assets and related leasehold rights, pending satisfaction of certain conditions.
Note 19 - Interest and Other Nonoperating Income (Expense), Net
In 2008, the Company recognized a $7.1 million other-than-temporary impairment loss on marketable securities. The Company concluded the impairment of the securities was not temporary based on the length of time and the degree to which the fair value had been below the securities’ $26.3 million cost basis.
Note 20 - Other Commitments and Contingencies
Surety Bonds and Letters of Credit
The Company is required by various state and federal laws to provide security with regard to its obligations to pay workers’ compensation benefits, reclaim lands used for mining by the Company’s former coal operations and satisfy other obligations. As of December 31, 2008, the Company had outstanding surety bonds with third parties totaling approximately $38.6 million that it has arranged in order to satisfy various security requirements. Most of these bonds provide financial security for obligations which have already been recorded as liabilities. Surety bonds are typically renewable on a yearly basis; however, there can be no assurance the bonds will be renewed or that premiums in the future will not increase.
The Company believes that it has adequate available borrowing capacity under its Letter of Credit Facility and its Revolving Facility to provide letters of credit or other collateral to secure its obligations if the remaining surety bonds are not renewed.
The Company has issued letters of credit of $131.4 million under its $135 million Letter of Credit Facility, described in “Long-Term Debt” above. At December 31, 2008, all of these issued letters of credit were being used to secure various obligations.
Former Operations
BAX Global, a former business unit of the Company, is defending a claim related to the apparent diversion by a third party of goods being transported for a customer. Although BAX Global is defending this claim vigorously and believes that its defenses have merit, it is possible that this claim ultimately may be decided in favor of the claimant. If so, the Company expects that the ultimate amount of reasonably possible unaccrued losses could range from $0 to $14 million. The Company has contractually indemnified the purchaser of BAX Global for this contingency.
Value-added taxes (“VAT”) and customs duties
During 2004, the Company determined that one of its non-U.S. Brink’s business units had not paid customs duties and VAT with respect to the importation of certain goods and services. The Company was advised that civil and criminal penalties could be asserted for the non-payment of these customs duties and VAT. Although no penalties have been asserted to date, they could be asserted at any time. The business unit has provided the appropriate government authorities with an accounting of unpaid customs duties and VAT and has made payments covering its calculated unpaid VAT. The Company believes that the range of reasonably possible losses is between $0.4 million and $3.0 million for potential penalties on unpaid VAT and have accrued $0.4 million. The Company believes that the range of possible losses for unpaid customs duties and associated penalties, none of which has been accrued, is between $0 and $35 million. The Company believes that the assertion of the penalties on unpaid customs duties would be excessive and would vigorously defend against any such assertion. The Company does not expect to be assessed interest charges in connection with any penalties that may be asserted. The Company continues to diligently pursue the timely resolution of this matter and, accordingly, the Company’s estimate of the potential losses could change materially in future periods. The assertion of potential penalties may be material to the Company’s financial position and results of operations.
Other
The Company is involved in various lawsuits and claims in the ordinary course of business. The Company is not able to estimate the range of losses for some of these matters. The Company has recorded accruals for losses that are considered probable and reasonably estimable. The Company does not believe that the ultimate disposition of any of these matters will have a material adverse effect on its liquidity, financial position or results of operations.
Purchase Obligations
At December 31, 2008, the Company had noncancellable commitments for $21.7 million in equipment purchases, and information technology and other services.
Note 21 - Selected Quarterly Financial Data (unaudited)
Earnings per share amounts for each quarter are required to be computed independently. As a result, their sum may not equal the annual earnings per share.
Fourth-quarter 2008 results include a pretax gain of $12 million on the sale of coal assets and a pretax loss of $7 million related to the impairment of investment assets. During the fourth quarter of 2008, the Company identified and corrected certain accounting items which decreased income from continuing operations in the period by $3 million. The effect of these corrections was not material to any prior quarter or annual period.
ITEM 9.
ITEM 9. CHANGES IN AND DISAGREEMENTS WITH ACCOUNTANTS ON ACCOUNTING AND FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE
Not applicable.
ITEM 9A.
ITEM 9A. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
Pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company carried out an evaluation, with the participation of the Company’s management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined under Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) as of the end of the period covered by this report. Based upon that evaluation, the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Vice President and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed by the Company in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, is recorded, processed, summarized and reported, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to management, including the Company’s Chief Executive Officer and Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure.
There has been no change in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting during the quarter ended December 31, 2008, that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
Reference is made to pages 58 and 59 for Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting and the Attestation Report of the Registered Public Accounting Firm.
ITEM 9B.
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION
Not applicable.
PART III
ITEM 10.
ITEM 10. DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
The Company has adopted a Business Code of Ethics that applies to all of the directors, officers and employees (including the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Controller) and has posted the Code on the Company’s website. The Company intends to satisfy the disclosure requirement under Item 5.05 of Form 8-K relating to amendments to or waivers from any provision of the Business Code of Ethics applicable to the Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer or Controller by posting this information on the website. The internet address is www.brinkscompany.com.
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer is required to make, and he has made, an annual certification to the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) stating that he was not aware of any violation by the Company of the corporate governance listing standards of the NYSE. The Company’s Chief Executive Officer made his annual certification to that effect to the NYSE as of May 30, 2008. In addition, the Company is filing, as exhibits to this Annual Report on Form 10-K, the certification of its principal executive officer and principal financial officer required under sections 906 and 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 to be filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission regarding the quality of its public disclosure.
The information regarding executive officers is included in this report following Item 4, under the caption “Executive Officers of the Registrant.” Other information required by Item 10 is herein incorporated by reference to the Company’s definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after December 31, 2008.
ITEM 11.
ITEM 11. EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION
The information required by Item 11 is incorporated by reference to the Company’s definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after December 31, 2008.
ITEM 12.
ITEM 12. SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS
The information required by Item 12 is incorporated by reference to the Company’s definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after December 31, 2008.
ITEM 13.
ITEM 13. CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE
The information required by Item 13 is incorporated by reference to the Company’s definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after December 31, 2008.
ITEM 14.
ITEM 14. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES
The information required by Item 14 is incorporated by reference to the Company’s definitive proxy statement to be filed pursuant to Regulation 14A within 120 days after December 31, 2008.
PART IV
ITEM 15.
ITEM 15. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES
(a)
1.
All financial statements - see pages 57 - 104.
2.
Financial statement schedules - not applicable.
3.
Exhibits - see exhibit index.
Undertaking
For the purposes of complying with the amendments to the rules governing Form S-8 (effective July 13, 1990) under the Securities Act of 1933, the undersigned Registrant hereby undertakes as follows, which undertaking shall be incorporated by reference into Registrant’s Registration Statements on Form S-8 Nos. 2-64258, 33-2039, 33-21393, 33-23333, 33-69040, 33-53565, 333-02219, 333-78631, 333-78633, 333-70758, 333-70772, 333-70766, 333-70762 and 333-146673. Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Signatures
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) 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, on March 2, 2009.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the Registrant and in the capacities indicated, on March 2, 2009.
Exhibit Index
Each exhibit listed as a previously filed document is hereby incorporated by reference to such document.
*Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.