Document
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549 
____________________________________________ 
FORM 10-Q
(Mark One)
 
ý
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2016
 
¨
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from             to             
Commission file number 001-15885
MATERION CORPORATION
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in charter)
 
Ohio
 
34-1919973
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
 
6070 Parkland Blvd., Mayfield Heights, Ohio
 
44124
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:
216-486-4200
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes  þ        No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes  þ        No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer  þ
Accelerated filer   ¨
Non-accelerated filer  ¨
Smaller reporting company  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes  ¨        No  þ
As of October 21, 2016 there were 19,937,862 common shares, no par value, outstanding.




PART I FINANCIAL INFORMATION
MATERION CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements
The consolidated financial statements of Materion Corporation and its subsidiaries for the third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2016 are as follows:
 
 
Third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and October 2, 2015

 
 
 
 
 
 
Third quarter and nine months ended September 30, 2016 and October 2, 2015
 
 
 
 
 


 
September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nine months ended September 30, 2016 and October 2, 2015
 




1



Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Income
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Net sales
 
$
249,619

 
$
244,354

 
$
734,906

 
$
811,233

Cost of sales
 
198,864

 
200,351

 
595,488

 
663,548

Gross margin
 
50,755

 
44,003

 
139,418

 
147,685

Selling, general, and administrative expense
 
34,177

 
29,051

 
97,101

 
101,578

Research and development expense
 
3,237

 
2,501

 
9,860

 
9,435

Other—net
 
3,190

 
1,590

 
8,997

 
(532
)
Operating profit
 
10,151

 
10,861

 
23,460

 
37,204

Interest expense—net
 
490

 
586

 
1,417

 
1,893

Income before income taxes
 
9,661

 
10,275

 
22,043

 
35,311

Income tax expense
 
1,616

 
2,883

 
3,081

 
9,868

Net income
 
$
8,045

 
$
7,392

 
$
18,962


$
25,443

Basic earnings per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share of common stock
 
$
0.40

 
$
0.37

 
$
0.95

 
$
1.26

Diluted earnings per share:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income per share of common stock
 
$
0.40

 
$
0.36

 
$
0.94

 
$
1.24

Cash dividends per share
 
$
0.095

 
$
0.090

 
$
0.280

 
$
0.265

Weighted-average number of shares of common stock outstanding:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic
 
19,957

 
20,087

 
19,996

 
20,128

Diluted
 
20,192

 
20,383

 
20,209

 
20,458





















Refer to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.




2



Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Net income
 
$
8,045

 
$
7,392

 
$
18,962

 
$
25,443

Other comprehensive income:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
 
467

 
359

 
2,918

 
(895
)
Derivative and hedging activity, net of tax
 
132

 
(1,177
)
 
(489
)
 
(1,778
)
Pension and post-employment benefit adjustment, net of tax
 
673

 
901

 
2,923

 
2,705

Other comprehensive income
 
1,272

 
83

 
5,352

 
32

Comprehensive income
 
$
9,317

 
$
7,475

 
$
24,314

 
$
25,475





































Refer to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.




3



Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Dec. 31,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Assets
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
15,806

 
$
24,236

Accounts receivable
 
118,826

 
97,236

Inventories
 
210,213

 
211,820

Prepaid expenses
 
13,871

 
12,799

Total current assets
 
358,716

 
346,091

Long-term deferred income taxes
 
26,655

 
25,743

Property, plant, and equipment
 
862,474

 
833,834

Less allowances for depreciation, depletion, and amortization
 
(602,084
)
 
(570,205
)
Property, plant, and equipment—net
 
260,390

 
263,629

Intangible assets
 
10,706

 
13,389

Other assets
 
4,925

 
6,716

Goodwill
 
86,725

 
86,725

Total Assets
 
$
748,117

 
$
742,293

Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
 
Short-term debt
 
$
12,803

 
$
8,990

Accounts payable
 
32,941

 
31,888

Salaries and wages
 
23,637

 
27,494

Other liabilities and accrued items
 
24,275

 
22,035

Income taxes
 
3,851

 
2,373

Unearned revenue
 
1,152

 
3,695

Total current liabilities
 
98,659

 
96,475

Other long-term liabilities
 
17,893

 
18,435

Retirement and post-employment benefits
 
84,003

 
92,794

Unearned income
 
42,515

 
45,953

Long-term income taxes
 
1,179

 
1,293

Deferred income taxes
 
142

 
110

Long-term debt
 
3,776

 
4,276

Shareholders’ equity
 


 


Serial preferred stock
 

 

Common stock
 
212,168

 
208,967

Retained earnings
 
513,020

 
499,659

Common stock in treasury
 
(153,899
)
 
(148,559
)
Accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
(75,353
)
 
(80,705
)
Other equity transactions
 
4,014

 
3,595

Total shareholders' equity
 
499,950

 
482,957

Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
$
748,117

 
$
742,293

Refer to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



4



Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
(Unaudited) 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
18,962

 
$
25,443

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operating activities:
 
 
 
 
Depreciation, depletion, and amortization
 
34,379

 
28,462

Amortization of deferred financing costs in interest expense
 
417

 
497

Stock-based compensation expense
 
2,880

 
4,518

(Gain) loss on sale of property, plant, and equipment
 
(601
)
 
310

Deferred income tax (benefit) expense
 
(676
)
 
3,841

Changes in assets and liabilities net of acquired assets and liabilities:
 
 
 

Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable
 
(19,781
)
 
(1,583
)
Decrease (increase) in inventory
 
3,294

 
9,928

Decrease (increase) in prepaid and other current assets
 
(956
)
 
(1,965
)
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
(2,207
)
 
(19,299
)
Increase (decrease) in unearned revenue
 
(2,546
)
 
(773
)
Increase (decrease) in interest and taxes payable
 
898

 
896

Increase (decrease) in long-term liabilities
 
(9,320
)
 
(5,175
)
Other-net
 
1,611

 
(256
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
26,354

 
44,844

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
Payments for purchase of property, plant, and equipment
 
(20,052
)
 
(24,085
)
Payments for mine development
 
(8,934
)
 
(16,972
)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant, and equipment
 
1,366

 
43

Net cash used in investing activities
 
(27,620
)
 
(41,014
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
Proceeds from issuance of short-term debt, net
 
3,777

 
14,152

Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
 
10,000

 
53,990

Repayment of long-term debt
 
(10,517
)
 
(46,275
)
Principal payments under capital lease obligations
 
(549
)
 
(582
)
Cash dividends paid
 
(5,601
)
 
(5,331
)
Deferred financing costs
 
(1,000
)
 

Repurchase of common stock
 
(3,798
)
 
(7,129
)
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
 
(7,688
)
 
8,825

Effects of exchange rate changes
 
524

 
(979
)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
 
(8,430
)
 
11,676

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
 
24,236

 
13,150

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
15,806

 
$
24,826


Refer to Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.



5


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)



Note A — Accounting Policies
(Dollars in thousands)
Basis of Presentation: In management’s opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements of Materion Corporation and its subsidiaries (the Company) contain all of the adjustments necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations, and cash flows for the interim periods reported. All adjustments were of a normal and recurring nature. Certain amounts in prior years have been reclassified to conform to the 2016 consolidated financial statement presentation.
These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and related notes included in the Company's 2015 Annual Report on Form 10-K. The interim period results are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected for the full year.
New Pronouncements Adopted: In April 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2015-03, Simplifying the Presentation of Debt Issuance Costs, which requires companies to present debt issuance costs associated with a debt liability as a deduction from the carrying amount of that debt liability on the balance sheet rather than being capitalized as an asset. The Company adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2016, and applied the new guidance on a retrospective basis, which resulted in a decrease to Intangible assets, Short-term debt, and Long-term debt, at December 31, 2015, of $347, $8, and $339, respectively.
In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-11, Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory. Inventory within the scope of this update is required to be measured at the lower of its cost or net realizable value, with net realizable value being the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. This ASU is effective prospectively for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. We early adopted this ASU effective January 1, 2016. The adoption did not have a material effect on the consolidated financial statements.
New Pronouncements Issued: In March 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-09, Improvements to Employee Share-Based Payment Accounting, which impacts several aspects of accounting for share-based payment transactions, including income tax consequences, classification of awards as either equity or liabilities, and classification on the statement of cash flows. Under the new standard, income tax benefits and deficiencies are to be recognized as income tax expense or benefit in the income statement, and the tax effects of exercised or vested awards will be treated as discrete items in the reporting period in which they occur. An entity will also recognize excess tax benefits regardless of whether the benefit reduces taxes payable in the reporting period. Excess tax benefits will be classified, along with other income tax cash flows, as an operating activity. In regard to forfeitures, the entity may make an entity-wide accounting policy election to either estimate the number of awards that are expected to vest or account for forfeitures as they occur. The ASU, which is required to be applied on a modified retrospective basis, will be effective for fiscal years, including interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this new guidance on the consolidated financial statements.
In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-02, Leases, which eliminates the off-balance-sheet accounting for leases. The new guidance will require lessees to report their operating leases as both an asset and liability on the balance sheet and disclose key information about leasing arrangements. The ASU, which is required to be applied on a modified retrospective basis, will be effective for fiscal years, including interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this new guidance on the consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers, which supersedes previous revenue recognition guidance. The new standard requires that a company recognize revenue when it transfers promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration the Company expects to receive in exchange for those goods or services. Companies will need to use more judgment and estimates than under the guidance currently in effect, including estimating the amount of variable revenue to recognize over each identified performance obligation. Additional disclosures will be required to help users of financial statements understand the nature, amount, and timing of revenue and cash flows arising from contracts. This ASU is effective beginning in fiscal year 2018 with a provision for early adoption in 2017. The standard can be adopted either retrospectively or as a cumulative-effect adjustment as of the date of adoption. The Company is currently evaluating the impact of adopting this new guidance on the consolidated financial statements.



6


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


No other recently issued or effective ASUs had, or are expected to have, a material effect on the Company's results of operations, financial condition, or liquidity.
Note B — Segment Reporting
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other
 
 
(Thousands)
 
Performance
Alloys and
Composites
 
Advanced Materials
 
Other (1)
 
Corporate (2)
 
Subtotal
 
Total
Third Quarter 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
$
103,699

 
$
107,250

 
$
38,670

 
$

 
$
38,670

 
$
249,619

Intersegment sales (3)
 
47

 
21,505

 

 

 

 
21,552

Value-added sales
 
87,247

 
45,960

 
25,803

 
(2,009
)
 
23,794

 
157,001

Operating profit (loss)
 
4,357

 
8,245

 
3,432

 
(5,883
)
 
(2,451
)
 
10,151

Third Quarter 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
$
93,566

 
$
113,635

 
$
37,142

 
$
11

 
$
37,153

 
$
244,354

Intersegment sales (3)
 
191

 
15,316

 

 

 

 
15,507

Value-added sales
 
79,596

 
44,520

 
25,671

 
(948
)
 
24,723

 
148,839

Operating profit (loss)
 
4,547

 
6,950

 
2,273

 
(2,909
)
 
(636
)
 
10,861

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
First Nine Months 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
$
292,024

 
$
328,927

 
$
113,955

 
$

 
$
113,955

 
$
734,906

Intersegment sales (3)
 
226

 
54,110

 

 

 

 
54,336

Value-added sales
 
248,799

 
135,019

 
75,548

 
(4,573
)
 
70,975

 
454,793

Operating profit (loss)
 
6,103

 
20,748

 
9,803

 
(13,194
)
 
(3,391
)
 
23,460

First Nine Months 2015
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
$
304,507

 
$
394,922

 
$
112,024

 
$
(220
)
 
$
111,804

 
$
811,233

Intersegment sales (3)
 
733

 
48,830

 

 

 

 
49,563

Value-added sales
 
256,697

 
142,952

 
75,438

 
(1,258
)
 
74,180

 
473,829

Operating profit (loss)
 
20,677

 
23,289

 
4,512

 
(11,274
)
 
(6,762
)
 
37,204

(1) 
Other represents the Precision Coatings group, which is a business included in the Other reportable segment.
(2) 
Costs associated with the Company's unallocated corporate functions have been shown separately to better illustrate the financial information for the businesses within the Other reportable segment.
(3) 
Intersegment sales are eliminated in consolidation.



7


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


Note C — Other-net
Other-net (income) expense for the third quarter and first nine months of 2016 and 2015 is summarized as follows: 
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Foreign currency exchange/translation loss (gain)
 
$
336

 
$
(1,256
)
 
$
977

 
$
(4,569
)
Amortization of intangible assets
 
1,148

 
1,256

 
3,444

 
3,769

Metal consignment fees
 
1,665

 
1,686

 
4,851

 
5,554

Net loss (gain) on disposal of fixed assets
 
94

 
2

 
(601
)
 
310

Recovery from insurance
 

 

 

 
(3,800
)
Legal recoveries
 

 
(500
)
 

 
(1,825
)
Other items
 
(53
)
 
402

 
326

 
29

Total
 
$
3,190

 
$
1,590

 
$
8,997

 
$
(532
)
Note D — Income Taxes
The Company recorded income tax expense of $1.6 million in the third quarter of 2016, an effective tax rate of 16.7% against income before income taxes, and income tax expense of $2.9 million in the third quarter of 2015, with an effective tax rate of 28.1% against income before income taxes.
In the first nine months of 2016, income tax expense of $3.1 million was calculated using an effective tax rate of 14.0%, while income tax expense of $9.9 million in the first nine months of 2015 was calculated using an effective tax rate of 27.9%.
The Company recorded discrete items in the first nine months of 2016, resulting in a net tax benefit of $1.0 million, primarily due to international tax planning initiatives. The difference between the statutory and effective rates in the third quarter and first nine months of both years was primarily due to these discrete items, the impact of percentage depletion, the foreign rate differential, and other items. The research and development credit also had a favorable effect on the Company's 2016 effective tax rate.




8


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


Note E — Earnings Per Share
The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted EPS:
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Numerator for basic and diluted EPS:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
8,045

 
$
7,392

 
$
18,962

 
$
25,443

Denominator:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Denominator for basic EPS:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-average shares outstanding
 
19,957

 
20,087

 
19,996

 
20,128

Effect of dilutive securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stock appreciation rights
 
70

 
123

 
66

 
174

Restricted stock units
 
82

 
113

 
86

 
103

Performance-based restricted stock units
 
83

 
60

 
61

 
53

Diluted potential common shares
 
235

 
296

 
213

 
330

Denominator for diluted EPS:
 

 

 
 
 
 
Adjusted weighted-average shares outstanding
 
20,192

 
20,383

 
20,209

 
20,458

Basic EPS
 
$
0.40

 
$
0.37

 
$
0.95

 
$
1.26

Diluted EPS
 
$
0.40

 
$
0.36

 
$
0.94

 
$
1.24


Stock appreciation rights (SARs) totaling 982,588 and 487,248 for the quarters ended September 30, 2016 and October 2, 2015, respectively, and 993,418 and 379,676 for the nine months ended September 30, 2016 and October 2, 2015, respectively, were excluded from the dilution calculation as their effect would have been anti-dilutive.
Note F — Depreciation and Amortization
The Company received an aggregate of $63.5 million from the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) in previous periods for reimbursement of the DoD's share of the cost of the equipment in property, plant, and equipment, and the reimbursements are reported as unearned income, a liability on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The equipment was placed in service during 2012, and its full cost is being depreciated in accordance with Company policy. The unearned income liability is being reduced ratably with the depreciation expense recorded over the life of the equipment.
In the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, the depreciation expense reimbursed for this equipment was $3.4 million and $4.7 million, respectively. Accordingly, in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, unearned income was reduced by $3.4 million and $4.7 million, respectively, with the offset recorded as a credit to cost of sales. Depreciation, depletion, and amortization expense on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows is shown net of the reduction in unearned income.



9


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


Note G — Inventories
Inventories on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are summarized as follows:
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Dec. 31,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Raw materials and supplies
 
$
35,792

 
$
37,463

Work in process
 
176,763

 
180,458

Finished goods
 
41,896

 
38,135

Subtotal
 
$
254,451

 
$
256,056

Less: LIFO reserve balance
 
44,238

 
44,236

Inventories
 
$
210,213

 
$
211,820

The liquidation of last in, first out (LIFO) inventory layers did not impact cost of sales in the third quarter of 2016 and reduced cost of sales by $0.5 million in the third quarter of 2015. In the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, cost of sales was reduced by $3.2 million and $2.4 million, respectively.
Note H — Pensions and Other Post-employment Benefits
The following is a summary of the net periodic benefit cost for the third quarter and first nine months of 2016 and 2015 for the domestic pension plans (which include the defined benefit pension plan and the supplemental retirement plans) and the domestic retiree medical plan.
 
 
Pension Benefits
 
Other Benefits
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Components of net periodic benefit cost
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
 
$
1,946

 
$
2,231

 
$
26

 
$
29

Interest cost
 
2,595

 
2,500

 
140

 
139

Expected return on plan assets
 
(3,488
)
 
(3,354
)
 

 

Amortization of prior service benefit
 
(115
)
 
(113
)
 
(374
)
 
(374
)
Amortization of net loss
 
1,431

 
1,820

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost (benefit)
 
$
2,369

 
$
3,084

 
$
(208
)
 
$
(206
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Pension Benefits
 
Other Benefits
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Components of net periodic benefit cost
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
 
$
5,838

 
$
6,692

 
$
77

 
$
87

Interest cost
 
7,785

 
7,500

 
422

 
415

Expected return on plan assets
 
(10,464
)
 
(10,062
)
 

 

Amortization of prior service benefit
 
(345
)
 
(337
)
 
(1,122
)
 
(1,122
)
Amortization of net loss
 
4,292

 
5,459

 

 

Net periodic benefit cost (benefit)
 
$
7,106

 
$
9,252

 
$
(623
)
 
$
(620
)
The Company made contributions to the domestic defined benefit pension plan of $12.0 million and $8.0 million in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.



10


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


Note I — Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income
Changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income, including the amounts reclassified, for the third quarter and first nine months of 2016 and 2015 are as follows:
(Thousands)
 
Gains and Losses on Cash Flow Hedges
 
Pension and Post-Employment Benefits
 
Foreign Currency Translation
 
Total
Balance at July 1, 2016
 
$
958

 
$
(74,546
)
 
$
(3,037
)
 
$
(76,625
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(126
)
 

 
467

 
341

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
 
336

 
1,015

 

 
1,351

Net current period other comprehensive income before tax
 
210


1,015


467


1,692

Deferred taxes on current period activity
 
78

 
342

 

 
420

Net current period other comprehensive income after tax
 
132


673


467


1,272

Balance at September 30, 2016
 
$
1,090


$
(73,873
)

$
(2,570
)

$
(75,353
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at July 3, 2015
 
$
2,977

 
$
(79,858
)
 
$
(5,407
)
 
$
(82,288
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(447
)
 

 
359

 
(88
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
 
(1,423
)
 
1,396

 

 
(27
)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) before tax
 
(1,870
)

1,396


359


(115
)
Deferred taxes on current period activity
 
(693
)
 
495

 

 
(198
)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) after tax
 
(1,177
)

901


359


83

Balance at October 2, 2015
 
$
1,800


$
(78,957
)

$
(5,048
)

$
(82,205
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2015
 
$
1,579

 
$
(76,796
)
 
$
(5,488
)
 
$
(80,705
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(1,571
)
 

 
2,918

 
1,347

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
 
793

 
3,045

 

 
3,838

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) before tax
 
(778
)
 
3,045

 
2,918

 
5,185

Deferred taxes on current period activity
 
(289
)
 
122

 

 
(167
)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) after tax
 
(489
)
 
2,923

 
2,918

 
5,352

Balance at September 30, 2016
 
$
1,090

 
$
(73,873
)
 
$
(2,570
)
 
$
(75,353
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at December 31, 2014
 
$
3,578

 
$
(81,662
)
 
$
(4,153
)
 
$
(82,237
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
2,198

 
14

 
(895
)
 
1,317

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income
 
(5,021
)
 
4,186

 

 
(835
)
Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) before tax
 
(2,823
)
 
4,200

 
(895
)
 
482

Deferred taxes on current period activity
 
(1,045
)
 
1,495

 

 
450

Net current period other comprehensive income (loss) after tax
 
(1,778
)
 
2,705

 
(895
)
 
32

Balance at October 2, 2015
 
$
1,800

 
$
(78,957
)
 
$
(5,048
)
 
$
(82,205
)
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income of gains and losses on foreign currency cash flow hedges are recorded in Other-net in the Consolidated Statements of Income. Refer to Note L for additional details on cash flow hedges.
Reclassifications from accumulated other comprehensive income for pension and post-employment benefits are included in the computation of the net periodic pension and post-employment benefit expense. Refer to Note H for additional details on pension and post-employment expenses.



11


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


Note J — Stock-based Compensation Expense
Stock-based compensation expense, which includes awards settled in shares and in cash, was $2.1 million and $4.4 million in the third quarter and first nine months of 2016, respectively, compared to $0.5 million and $5.9 million in the same periods of 2015.
The Company granted 221,065 SARs to certain employees during the first nine months of 2016. The weighted-average exercise price per share and weighted-average fair value per share of the SARs granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2016 were $25.19 and $8.07, respectively. The Company estimated the fair value of the SARs using the following assumptions in the Black-Scholes model:
Risk-free interest rate
 
1.25
%
Dividend yield
 
1.4
%
Volatility
 
38.0
%
Expected term (in years)
 
5.7

The Company granted 69,212 stock-settled restricted stock units (RSUs) and 28,180 cash-settled RSUs to certain employees and non-employee directors during the first nine months of 2016. The Company measures the fair value of stock-settled RSUs based on the closing market price of a share of Materion common stock on the date of the grant. The weighted-average fair value per share was $25.96 for stock-settled RSUs granted during the nine months ended September 30, 2016. Cash-settled RSUs are accounted for as liability-based compensation awards and adjusted based on the closing price of Materion’s common stock over the vesting period of three years.
The Company granted stock-settled and cash-settled performance-based restricted stock units (PRSUs) to certain employees in the first nine months of 2016. The weighted-average fair value of the stock-settled PRSUs was $22.77 per share and will be expensed over the vesting period of three years. The liability for cash-settled PRSUs is re-measured at fair value each reporting period, and the expense is recorded accordingly. The final payout to the employees for all PRSUs will be based upon the Company’s return on invested capital and the total return to shareholders over the vesting period relative to a peer group’s performance over the same period.
At September 30, 2016, unearned compensation cost related to the unvested portion of all stock-based awards was approximately $5.9 million, and is expected to be recognized over the remaining vesting period of the respective grants.
Note K — Fair Value of Financial Instruments
The Company measures and records financial instruments at fair value. A fair value hierarchy is used for those instruments measured at fair value that distinguishes between assumptions based on market data (observable inputs) and the Company’s assumptions (unobservable inputs). The hierarchy consists of three levels:
Level 1 — Quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets and liabilities;
Level 2 — Inputs other than Level 1 inputs that are either directly or indirectly observable; and
Level 3 — Unobservable inputs developed using estimates and assumptions developed by the Company, which reflect those that a market participant would use.



12


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


The following table summarizes the financial instruments measured at fair value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015: 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(Thousands)
 
Total Carrying Value in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
Quoted Prices
in  Active
Markets  for
Identical
Assets
(Level 1)
 
Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
 
Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
 
2016
 
2015
Financial Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred compensation investments
 
$
1,699

 
$
2,524

 
$
1,699

 
$
2,503

 
$

 
$
21

 
$

 
$

Foreign currency forward contracts
 
64

 
462

 

 

 
64

 
462

 

 

Total
 
$
1,763

 
$
2,986

 
$
1,699

 
$
2,503

 
$
64

 
$
483

 
$

 
$

Financial Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Deferred compensation liability
 
$
1,699

 
$
2,524

 
$
1,699

 
$
2,503

 
$

 
$
21

 
$

 
$

Foreign currency forward contracts
 
560

 
180

 

 

 
560

 
180

 

 

Total
 
$
2,259

 
$
2,704

 
$
1,699

 
$
2,503

 
$
560

 
$
201

 
$

 
$

The Company uses a market approach to value the assets and liabilities for financial instruments in the table above. Outstanding contracts are valued through models that utilize market observable inputs, including both spot and forward prices, for the same underlying currencies and metals. The carrying values of the other working capital items and debt in the Consolidated Balance Sheet approximate fair values as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015.
Note L — Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activity
The Company uses derivative contracts to hedge portions of its foreign currency exposures and may also use derivatives to hedge a portion of its precious metal exposures. The objectives and strategies for using derivatives in these areas are as follows:
Foreign Currency.    The Company sells a portion of its products to overseas customers in their local currencies, primarily the euro and yen. The Company secures foreign currency derivatives, mainly forward contracts and options, to hedge these anticipated sales transactions. The purpose of the hedge program is to protect against the reduction in the dollar value of foreign currency sales from adverse exchange rate movements. Should the dollar strengthen significantly, the decrease in the translated value of the foreign currency sales should be partially offset by gains on the hedge contracts. Depending upon the methods used, hedge contracts may limit the benefits from a weakening U.S. dollar.
The use of forward contracts locks in a firm rate and eliminates any downside risk from an adverse rate movement as well as any benefit from a favorable rate movement. The Company may from time to time choose to hedge with options or a tandem of options, known as a collar. These hedging techniques can limit or eliminate the downside risk but can allow for some or all of the benefit from a favorable rate movement to be realized. Unlike a forward contract, a premium is paid for an option; collars, which are a combination of a put and call option, may have a net premium but can be structured to be cash neutral. The Company will primarily hedge with forward contracts due to the relationship between the cash outlay and the level of risk.
The use of foreign currency derivative contracts is governed by policies approved by the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. A team consisting of senior financial managers reviews the estimated exposure levels, as defined by budgets, forecasts, and other internal data, and determines the timing, amounts, and instruments to use to hedge that exposure within the confines of the policy. Management analyzes the effective hedged rates and the actual and projected gains and losses on the hedging transactions against the program objectives, targeted rates, and levels of risk assumed. Hedge contracts are typically layered in at different times for a specified exposure period in order to minimize the impact of rate movements.



13


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


Precious Metals.    The Company maintains the majority of its precious metal production requirements on consignment in order to reduce its working capital investment and the exposure to metal price movements. When a precious metal product is fabricated and ready for shipment to the customer, the metal is purchased out of consignment at the current market price. The price paid by the Company forms the basis for the price charged to the customer. This methodology allows for changes in either direction in the market prices of the precious metals used by the Company to be passed through to the customer, and reduces the impact changes in prices could have on the Company's margins and operating profit. The consigned metal is owned by financial institutions that charge the Company a financing fee based upon the current value of the metal on hand.
In certain instances, a customer may want to establish the price for the precious metal at the time the sales order is placed rather than at the time of shipment. Setting the sales price at a different date than when the material would be purchased potentially creates an exposure to movements in the market price of the metal. Therefore, in these limited situations, the Company may elect to enter into a forward contract to purchase precious metal. The forward contract allows the Company to purchase metal at a fixed price on a specific future date. The price in the forward contract serves as the basis for the price to be charged to the customer. By doing so, the selling price and purchase price are matched, and the Company's price exposure is reduced.
The Company refines precious metal-containing materials for its customers and typically will purchase the refined metal from the customer at current market prices. In limited circumstances, the customer may want to fix the price to be paid at the time of the order as opposed to when the material is refined. The customer may also want to fix the price for a set period of time. The Company may then elect to enter into a hedge contract, either a forward contract or a swap, to fix the price for the estimated quantity of metal to be purchased, thereby reducing the exposure to adverse movements in the price of the metal.
The Company may from time to time elect to purchase precious metal and hold in inventory rather than on consignment due to potential credit line limitations or other factors. These purchases are typically held for a short duration. A forward contract will be secured at the time of the purchase to fix the price to be used when the metal is transferred back to the consignment line, thereby limiting any price exposure during the time when the metal was owned.
The Company will only enter into a derivative contract if there is an underlying identified exposure. Contracts are typically held until maturity. The Company does not engage in derivative trading activities and does not use derivatives for speculative purposes. The Company only uses currency hedge contracts that are denominated in the same currency as the underlying exposure and precious metal hedge contracts denominated in the same metal as the underlying exposure.
All derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value. If the derivative is designated and effective as a cash flow hedge, changes in the fair value of the derivative are recognized in other comprehensive income (OCI) until the hedged item is recognized in earnings. The ineffective portion of a derivative’s fair value, if any, is recognized in earnings immediately. If a derivative is not a hedge, changes in the fair value are adjusted through income. The fair values of the outstanding derivatives are recorded on the balance sheet as assets (if the derivatives are in a gain position) or liabilities (if the derivatives are in a loss position). The fair values will also be classified as short-term or long-term depending upon their maturity dates.











14


Materion Corporation and Subsidiaries
Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements
(Unaudited)


The following table summarizes the notional amount and the fair value of the Company’s outstanding derivatives and balance sheet classification as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015:
 
 
September 30, 2016
 
December 31, 2015
(Thousands)
 
Notional
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
Notional
Amount
 
Fair
Value
Prepaid expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency forward contracts - yen
 
$

 
$

 
$
5,138

 
$
60

Foreign currency forward contracts - euro
 
8,549

 
64

 
18,181

 
402

 
 
8,549

 
64

 
23,319

 
462

Other liabilities and accrued items
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency forward contracts - yen
 
4,320

 
(461
)
 
5,102

 
(94
)
Foreign currency forward contracts - euro
 
4,443

 
(99
)
 
10,514

 
(86
)
 
 
8,763

 
(560
)
 
15,616

 
(180
)
Total
 
$
17,312

 
$
(496
)
 
$
38,935

 
$
282

All of these contracts were designated and effective as cash flow hedges. No ineffectiveness expense was recorded in the third quarter or first nine months of 2016 or 2015.
Changes in the fair value of outstanding cash flow hedges recorded in OCI for the first nine months of 2016 and 2015 totaled a decrease of $1.6 million and an increase of $2.2 million, respectively. The Company expects to relieve substantially the entire balance in OCI as of September 30, 2016 to the Consolidated Statements of Income during the twelve-month period beginning October 1, 2016. Refer to Note I for additional OCI details.
Note M — Contingencies
Materion Brush Inc., one of the Company's wholly-owned subsidiaries, is a defendant from time to time in proceedings where the plaintiffs allege they have contracted chronic beryllium disease (CBD) or related ailments as a result of exposure to beryllium. The Company will record a reserve for CBD or other litigation when a loss from either settlement or verdict is probable and estimable. Claims filed by third-party plaintiffs may be covered by insurance subject to deductibles which vary based on when the exposure occurred. Reserves are recorded for asserted claims only, and defense costs are expensed as incurred. One CBD case that was outstanding at the end of the second quarter of 2016 was settled during the third quarter of 2016. The settlement of this case has been fully reflected in the Company's financial statements and is not material to the Company's consolidated financial statements. One CBD case that had been on appeal was remanded to the trial court and was outstanding as of the end of the third quarter of 2016. The Company does not expect the resolution of this matter to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements.
The Company has an active environmental compliance program and records reserves for the probable cost of identified environmental remediation projects. The reserves are established based upon analyses conducted by the Company’s engineers and outside consultants and are adjusted from time to time based upon ongoing studies, the difference between actual and estimated costs, and other factors. The reserves may also be affected by rulings and negotiations with regulatory agencies. The undiscounted reserve balance was $6.0 million at September 30, 2016 and $5.7 million at December 31, 2015. Environmental projects tend to be long term, and the final actual remediation costs may differ from the amounts currently recorded.

Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations
OVERVIEW
We are an integrated producer of high-performance advanced engineered materials used in a variety of electrical, electronic, sensing, thermal, and structural applications. Our products are sold into numerous end markets, including consumer electronics,



15



industrial components, medical, automotive electronics, defense, telecommunications infrastructure, energy, commercial aerospace, science, services, and appliance.
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Third Quarter
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
(Thousands, except per share data)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales
 
$
249,619

 
$
244,354

 
$
5,265

 
2
 %
Value-added sales
 
157,001

 
148,839

 
8,162

 
5
 %
Gross margin
 
50,755

 
44,003

 
6,752

 
15
 %
Gross margin as a % of value-added sales
 
32
%
 
30
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Selling, general, and administrative (SG&A) expense
 
34,177

 
29,051

 
5,126

 
18
 %
SG&A expense as a % of value-added sales
 
22
%
 
20
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Research and development (R&D) expense
 
3,237

 
2,501

 
736

 
29
 %
R&D expense as a % of value-added sales
 
2
%
 
2
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Other—net
 
3,190

 
1,590

 
1,600

 
101
 %
Operating profit
 
10,151


10,861

 
(710
)
 
(7
)%
Interest expense—net
 
490

 
586

 
(96
)
 
(16
)%
Income before income taxes
 
9,661

 
10,275

 
(614
)
 
(6
)%
Income tax expense
 
1,616

 
2,883

 
(1,267
)
 
(44
)%
Net income
 
$
8,045

 
$
7,392

 
$
653

 
9
 %
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.40

 
$
0.36

 
$
0.04

 
11
 %
N/A = Not Applicable

Net sales of $249.6 million in the third quarter of 2016 were $5.2 million higher than the $244.4 million recorded in the third quarter of 2015. The increase in net sales in the third quarter of 2016 was due to higher sales volume and the impact of pass-through precious metal and copper prices. Sales volume was higher primarily due to increased shipments of raw material beryllium hydroxide and stronger demand in the consumer electronics and telecom infrastructure end markets, partially offset by unfavorable product mix. Changes in precious metal and copper prices favorably impacted net sales in the third quarter of 2016 by $14.1 million when compared to the third quarter of 2015.

Value-added sales is a non-GAAP measure that removes the impact of pass-through metal costs and allows for analysis without the distortion of the movement or volatility in metal prices. Internally, we manage our business on this basis, and a reconciliation of net sales to value-added sales is included herein. Value-added sales of $157.0 million in the third quarter of 2016 increased $8.2 million, or 5% compared to the third quarter of 2015. Value-added sales to the consumer electronics end market, which accounted for 29% of our total value-added sales, increased $7.2 million year-over-year. Shipments of raw material beryllium hydroxide during the third quarter of 2016 also increased value-added sales by approximately $3.0 million compared to the third quarter of 2015. These increases were offset by weakness in the industrial components and defense end markets, which lowered value-added sales by $5.1 million.

Gross margin in the third quarter of 2016 was $50.8 million, or $6.8 million above the $44.0 million gross margin recorded during the third quarter of 2015. Expressed as a percentage of value-added sales, gross margin increased from 30% in the third quarter of 2015 to 32% in the third quarter of 2016. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to higher sales volume, improved manufacturing yields, and favorable price and product mix.

SG&A expense was $34.2 million in the third quarter of 2016, or $5.1 million higher than $29.1 million in the third quarter of 2015. The increase in SG&A expense was due primarily to higher stock-based and annual incentive compensation expense of $4.1 million primarily driven by stock price fluctuation and financial performance.



16




R&D expense consists primarily of direct personnel costs for pre-production evaluation and testing of new products, prototypes, and applications. R&D expense was flat as a percentage of value-added sales at approximately 2% in the third quarter of both 2016 and 2015.

Other-net was $3.2 million of expense in the third quarter of 2016, or a $1.6 million increase from the third quarter of 2015. Other-net in the third quarter of 2015 included foreign currency exchange gains of $1.3 million due primarily to the maturity of foreign currency forward contracts compared to a foreign currency exchange loss of $0.3 million in the third quarter of 2016. Additionally, Other-net in the third quarter of 2015 included a gain of $0.5 million related to a favorable legal settlement. Refer to Note C to the Consolidated Financial Statements for details of the major components within Other-net.

Interest expense-net was $0.5 million in the third quarter of 2016 and $0.6 million in the third quarter of 2015 due to lower average debt outstanding.

Income tax expense for the third quarter of 2016 was $1.6 million versus $2.9 million in the third quarter of 2015. The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2016 was 16.7% compared to an effective tax rate of 28.1% in the prior-year period. The effects of discrete items, percentage depletion, the foreign rate differential, and other items were the primary factors for the difference between the effective and statutory rates in the third quarter of 2016 and 2015. The R&D tax credit also had a favorable effect on the Company's third quarter 2016 effective tax rate.

Nine Months
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
(Thousands, except per share data)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales
 
$
734,906

 
$
811,233

 
$
(76,327
)
 
(9
)%
Value-added sales
 
454,793

 
473,829

 
(19,036
)
 
(4
)%
Gross margin
 
139,418

 
147,685

 
(8,267
)
 
(6
)%
Gross margin as a % of value-added sales
 
31
%
 
31
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

SG&A expense
 
97,101

 
101,578

 
(4,477
)
 
(4
)%
SG&A expense as a % of value-added sales
 
21
%
 
21
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

R&D expense
 
9,860

 
9,435

 
425

 
5
 %
R&D expense as a % of value-added sales
 
2
%
 
2
%
 
N/A

 
N/A

Other—net
 
8,997

 
(532
)
 
9,529

 
(1,791
)%
Operating profit
 
23,460

 
37,204

 
(13,744
)
 
(37
)%
Interest expense—net
 
1,417

 
1,893

 
(476
)
 
(25
)%
Income before income taxes
 
22,043

 
35,311

 
(13,268
)
 
(38
)%
Income tax expense
 
3,081

 
9,868

 
(6,787
)
 
(69
)%
Net income
 
$
18,962

 
$
25,443

 
$
(6,481
)
 
(25
)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share
 
$
0.94

 
$
1.24

 
$
(0.30
)
 
(24
)%
N/A = Not Applicable

Net sales of $734.9 million in the first nine months of 2016 were $76.3 million lower than the $811.2 million recorded in the first nine months of 2015. The decrease in net sales in the first nine months of 2016 was primarily due to lower sales volume. Sales volume was lower primarily due to decreased shipments of raw material beryllium hydroxide, weaker demand in the oil and gas sector of the energy end market, and weakness in the industrial components and automotive electronics end markets. These decreases were partially offset by changes in precious metal and copper prices, which favorably impacted net sales in the first nine months of 2016 by approximately $8.2 million when compared to the first nine months of 2015.

Value-added sales of $454.8 million in the first nine months of 2016 decreased $19.0 million, or 4% compared to the first nine months of 2015. Value-added sales to the consumer electronics end market, our largest end market accounting for approximately 28% of our total value-added sales in the first nine months of 2016, were up slightly compared to the first nine months of 2015. In addition, value-added sales to the defense end market increased $7.2 million year-over-year. These increases were more than offset by decreased shipments of raw material beryllium hydroxide of $8.1 million and lower value-added sales in several end markets. The industrial components and automotive electronics end market sales, which collectively accounted



17



for 23% of our total value-added sales in the first nine months of 2016, decreased $12.0 million compared to the first nine months of 2015.

Gross margin in the first nine months of 2016 was $139.4 million, or $8.3 million below the $147.7 million gross margin recorded during the first nine months of 2015. The decrease in gross margin was primarily due to a combination of lower sales volume and unfavorable product mix.

SG&A expense was $97.1 million in the first nine months of 2016, or $4.5 million lower than $101.6 million in the first nine months of 2015. The decrease in SG&A expense was primarily due to a $2.6 million reduction in stock-based and annual incentive compensation expense driven by stock price fluctuation and financial performance as compared to the prior-year period. In addition, selling expenses were also lower due to the decrease in sales volume.

R&D expense was flat as a percentage of value-added sales at approximately 2% in the first nine months of both 2016 and 2015.

Other-net was $9.0 million of expense in the first nine months of 2016 as compared to $0.5 million of income in the first nine months of 2015. Other-net in the first nine months of 2015 included foreign currency exchange gains of $4.6 million compared to a foreign currency exchange loss of $1.0 million in the first nine months of 2016. Additionally, Other-net in the first nine months of 2015 included recognized gains of $5.6 million from settlement agreements on insurance and legal claims in connection with construction of our beryllium pebble facility in Elmore, Ohio. Refer to Note C to the Consolidated Financial Statements for details of the major components within Other-net.

Interest expense-net was $1.4 million in the first nine months of 2016 and $1.9 million in the first nine months of 2015 due to lower average debt outstanding.

Income tax expense for the first nine months of 2016 was $3.1 million versus $9.9 million in the first nine months of 2015. The effective tax rates for the first nine months of 2016 and 2015 were 14.0% and 27.9%, respectively. The effects of discrete items, percentage depletion, the foreign rate differential, and other items were the primary factors for the difference between the effective and statutory rates in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015. The R&D tax credit also had a favorable effect on the Company's effective tax rate in the first nine months of 2016.




18



Value-Added Sales - Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Measure
A reconciliation of net sales to value-added sales, a non-GAAP measure, for each reportable segment and for the total Company for the third quarter and first nine months of 2016 and 2015 is as follows:
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,

Oct. 2,
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
(Thousands)
 
2016

2015
 
2016
 
2015
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Alloys and Composites
 
$
103,699

 
$
93,566

 
$
292,024

 
$
304,507

Advanced Materials
 
107,250

 
113,635

 
328,927

 
394,922

Other
 
38,670

 
37,153

 
113,955

 
111,804

Total
 
$
249,619

 
$
244,354

 
$
734,906

 
$
811,233

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Less: pass-through metal costs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Alloys and Composites
 
$
16,452

 
$
13,970

 
$
43,225

 
$
47,810

Advanced Materials
 
61,290

 
69,115

 
193,908

 
251,970

Other
 
14,876

 
12,430

 
42,980

 
37,624

Total
 
$
92,618

 
$
95,515

 
$
280,113

 
$
337,404

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Value-added sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Performance Alloys and Composites
 
$
87,247

 
$
79,596

 
$
248,799

 
$
256,697

Advanced Materials
 
45,960

 
44,520

 
135,019

 
142,952

Other
 
23,794

 
24,723

 
70,975

 
74,180

Total
 
$
157,001

 
$
148,839

 
$
454,793

 
$
473,829

The cost of gold, silver, platinum, palladium, and copper can be quite volatile. Our pricing policy is to directly pass the cost of these metals on to the customer in order to mitigate the impact of metal price volatility on our results from operations. Trends and comparisons of net sales are affected by movements in the market prices of these metals, but changes in net sales due to metal price movements may not have a proportionate impact on our profitability.
Internally, management reviews net sales on a value-added basis. Value-added sales are a non-GAAP measure that deducts the value of the pass-through metal costs from net sales. Value-added sales allow management to assess the impact of differences in net sales between periods, segments, or markets, and analyze the resulting margins and profitability without the distortion of movements in pass-through metal costs. The dollar amount of gross margin and operating profit is not affected by the value-added sales calculation. We sell other metals and materials that are not considered direct pass-throughs, and these costs are not deducted from net sales when calculating value-added sales.
Our net sales are also affected by changes in the use of customer-supplied metal. When we manufacture a precious metal product, the customer may purchase metal from us or may elect to provide its own metal, in which case we process the metal on a toll basis and the metal value does not flow through net sales or cost of sales. In either case, we generally earn our margin based upon our fabrication efforts. The relationship of this margin to net sales can change depending upon whether or not the product was made from our metal or the customer’s metal. The use of value-added sales removes the potential distortion in the comparison of net sales caused by changes in the level of customer-supplied metal.
By presenting information on net sales and value-added sales, it is our intention to allow users of our financial statements to review our net sales with and without the impact of the pass-through metals.

Segment Results
The Company consists of three reportable segments: Performance Alloys and Composites, Advanced Materials, and Other. The Other reportable segment includes the results of our Precision Optics and Large Area Coatings operating segments, which do not meet the quantitative thresholds for separate disclosure and are collectively referred to as our Precision Coatings group. The Other reportable segment also includes unallocated corporate costs. Refer to Note B to the Consolidated Financial Statements for additional business segment information.



19




Performance Alloys and Composites
Third Quarter
 
 
Third Quarter Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales
 
$
103,699

 
$
93,566

 
$
10,133

 
11
 %
Value-added sales
 
87,247

 
79,596

 
7,651

 
10
 %
Operating profit
 
4,357

 
4,547

 
(190
)
 
(4
)%
Net sales from the Performance Alloys and Composites segment of $103.7 million in the third quarter of 2016 were 11% higher than net sales of $93.6 million in the third quarter of 2015 primarily due to higher sales volume offset by the impact of lower pass-through metal prices of $1.7 million.
Value-added sales of $87.2 million in the third quarter of 2016 were 10% higher than value-added sales of $79.6 million in the third quarter of 2015. Shipment of raw material beryllium hydroxide during the third quarter increased value-added sales by approximately $3.0 million, and stronger demand in the consumer electronics end market increased value-added sales by $5.3 million compared to the third quarter of 2015.
Performance Alloys and Composites generated operating profit of $4.4 million in the third quarter of 2016 compared to $4.5 million in the third quarter of 2015. The decline in operating profit in the third quarter of 2016 as compared to the third quarter of 2015 was primarily due to the negative impact of foreign exchange rate movements of $1.4 million.

Nine Months
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales
 
$
292,024

 
$
304,507

 
(12,483
)
 
(4
)%
Value-added sales
 
248,799

 
256,697

 
(7,898
)
 
(3
)%
Operating profit
 
6,103

 
20,677

 
(14,574
)
 
(70
)%
Net sales from the Performance Alloys and Composites segment of $292.0 million in the first nine months of 2016 were 4% lower than net sales of $304.5 million in the first nine months of 2015 primarily due to lower sales volume and the impact of lower pass-through metal prices of $7.1 million.
Value-added sales of $248.8 million in the first nine months of 2016 were 3% lower than value-added sales of $256.7 million in the first nine months of 2015. The decrease in value-added sales was primarily driven by lower raw material sales of beryllium hydroxide of $8.1 million. Additionally, value-added sales to the energy end market were $2.8 million lower due to a decline in exploration in the oil and gas sector of the market.
Performance Alloys and Composites generated operating profit of $6.1 million, or 2% of value-added sales, in the first nine months of 2016 compared to $20.7 million, or 8% of value-added sales, in the first nine months of 2015. The decline in operating profit in the first nine months of 2016 as compared to the first nine months of 2015 was primarily due to lower sales volume and the negative impact of foreign exchange rate movements of $4.9 million.



20




Advanced Materials
Third Quarter
 

Third Quarter Ended


Sept. 30,

Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
(Thousands)

2016

2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales

$
107,250


$
113,635

 
(6,385
)
 
(6
)%
Value-added sales

45,960


44,520

 
1,440

 
3
 %
Operating profit

8,245


6,950

 
1,295

 
19
 %
Net sales from the Advanced Materials segment of $107.2 million in the third quarter of 2016 were 6% lower than net sales of $113.6 million in the third quarter of 2015 primarily due to changes in mix for customer supplied material offset by the impact of higher pass-through metal prices of $11.9 million.
Value-added sales of $46.0 million in the third quarter of 2016 were 3% higher than value-added sales of $44.5 million in the third quarter of 2015. Value-added sales in the consumer electronics end market, which represents approximately 46% of total segment value-added sales, were up slightly when compared to the prior-year period.
The Advanced Materials segment generated operating profit of $8.3 million in the third quarter of 2016 compared to $7.0 million in the third quarter of 2015. As a percentage of value-added sales, operating profit was 18% in the third quarter of 2016 compared to 16% in the third quarter of 2015. The increase in operating profit in the third quarter of 2016 versus the third quarter of 2015 was due to product mix and improved yields.

Nine Months
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales
 
$
328,927

 
$
394,922

 
(65,995
)
 
(17
)%
Value-added sales
 
135,019

 
142,952

 
(7,933
)
 
(6
)%
Operating profit
 
20,748

 
23,289

 
(2,541
)
 
(11
)%
Net sales from the Advanced Materials segment of $328.9 million in the first nine months of 2016 were 17% lower than net sales of $394.9 million in the first nine months of 2015 primarily due to lower sales volume partially offset by the impact of higher pass-through metal prices of $10.6 million.
Value-added sales of $135.1 million in the first nine months of 2016 were 6% lower than value-added sales of $143.0 million in the first nine months of 2015. The decrease in value-added sales was primarily driven by lower value-added sales to the consumer electronics and energy end markets. Value-added sales to the consumer electronics end market, which represents approximately 46% of total segment value-added sales, decreased $3.0 million due primarily to lower demand for base semiconductor and data storage applications. Value-added sales to the energy end market decreased $2.2 million in the first nine months of 2016 compared to the prior-year period due primarily to lower demand from the solar segments of the market.
The Advanced Materials segment generated operating profit of $20.8 million in the first nine months of 2016 compared to $23.3 million in the first nine months of 2015. As a percentage of value-added sales, operating profit was 15% and 16% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The decrease in operating profit in the first nine months of 2016 versus the comparable period of 2015 was due to lower sales volume.




21



Other
Third Quarter
(Thousands)

Third Quarter Ended
Sept. 30,

Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
2016

2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales

$
38,670


$
37,153

 
1,517

 
4
 %
Value-added sales

23,794


24,723

 
(929
)
 
(4
)%
Operating profit (loss)

(2,451
)

(636
)
 
(1,815
)
 
285
 %
The Other reportable segment in total includes the operating results of the Precision Coatings group and unallocated corporate costs.
Net sales for the Other reportable segment totaled $38.7 million and $37.2 million in the third quarter of 2016 and 2015, respectively. Including unallocated corporate costs, the Other reportable segment had an operating loss of $2.5 million in the third quarter of 2016 and an operating loss of $0.6 million in the third quarter of 2015.
Within the Other reportable segment, net sales for the Precision Coatings group were $38.7 million in the third quarter of 2016 as compared to $37.2 million in the third quarter of 2015, and value-added sales for the third quarter of 2016 and 2015 were $25.8 million and $25.7 million, respectively. Higher sales to the consumer electronics and defense end markets were offset by lower sales to the medical and automotive electronics end markets.
Within the Other reportable segment, the Precision Coatings group reported an operating profit of $3.4 million in the third quarter of 2016 as compared to $2.3 million in the third quarter of 2015. As a percentage of value-added sales, operating profit was 13% and 9% in the third quarter of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The increase is primarily due to improved product mix and cost reduction initiatives.
Within the Other reportable segment, corporate reported operating expense of $5.9 million and $2.9 million in the third quarter of 2016 and 2015, respectively. Higher unallocated corporate costs were primarily due to a $2.6 million increase in stock-based and incentive compensation.
Nine Months
(Thousands)
 
Nine Months Ended
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
$
 
%
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
 
Change
Net sales
 
$
113,955

 
$
111,804

 
2,151

 
2
 %
Value-added sales
 
70,975

 
74,180

 
(3,205
)
 
(4
)%
Operating profit (loss)
 
(3,391
)
 
(6,762
)
 
3,371

 
(50
)%
Net sales for the Other reportable segment totaled $114.0 million and $111.8 million in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. Including unallocated corporate costs, the Other reportable segment had an operating loss of $3.4 million in the first nine months of 2016 and an operating loss of $6.8 million in the first nine months of 2015.
Within the Other reportable segment, net sales for the Precision Coatings group were $114.0 million in the first nine months of 2016 as compared to $112.0 million in the first nine months of 2015, and value-added sales were relatively flat at $75.5 million and $75.4 million in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively.
Within the Other reportable segment, the Precision Coatings group reported an operating profit of $9.8 million in the first nine months of 2016 as compared to $4.5 million in the first nine months of 2015. As a percentage of value-added sales, operating profit was 13% and 6% in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. The increase is primarily due to improved product mix, cost reduction initiatives, and a gain on the sale of equipment of $0.7 million.
Within the Other reportable segment, corporate reported operating expense of $13.2 million and $11.3 million in the first nine months of 2016 and 2015, respectively. Higher unallocated corporate costs were primarily due to the $5.6 million insurance and legal settlement gains realized in the prior period offset by lower stock-based and incentive compensation of $2.7 million in the current period.



22



Legal Proceedings
One of our subsidiaries, Materion Brush Inc., is a defendant from time to time in proceedings in various state and federal courts brought by plaintiffs alleging that they have contracted chronic beryllium disease (CBD) or other lung conditions as a result of exposure to beryllium. Plaintiffs in beryllium cases generally seek recovery under negligence and various other legal theories and seek compensatory and punitive damages, in many cases of an unspecified sum. Spouses, if any, often claim loss of consortium.

One beryllium case (involving three plaintiffs) was settled during the third quarter of 2016 and, currently, one beryllium case (involving four plaintiffs) that had been on appeal is outstanding, after having been remanded to the trial court. The Company does not expect the resolution of this matter to have a material impact on the consolidated financial statements. Refer to Item 1 “Legal Proceedings" in Part II of this Form 10-Q for further information.
Additional beryllium claims may arise. Management believes that we have substantial defenses in these types of cases and intends to contest the suits vigorously should they arise. Employee cases, in which plaintiffs have a high burden of proof, have historically involved relatively small losses to us. Third-party plaintiffs (typically employees of customers or contractors) face a lower burden of proof than do employees or former employees, but these cases are generally covered by varying levels of insurance.
Although it is not possible to predict the outcome of any litigation, we provide for costs related to these matters when a loss is probable, and the amount is reasonably estimable. Litigation is subject to many uncertainties, and it is possible that some of these actions could be decided unfavorably in amounts exceeding our reserves. An unfavorable outcome or settlement of a beryllium case or adverse media coverage could encourage the commencement of additional similar litigation. We are unable to estimate our potential exposure to unasserted claims.
Based upon currently known facts and our experience with beryllium cases and assuming collectibility of insurance, we do not believe that resolution of future beryllium proceedings will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition or cash flow. However, our results of operations could be materially affected by unfavorable results in one or more of these cases in the future.

FINANCIAL POSITION
Cash Flow
A summary of cash flows provided by (used in) operating, investing, and financing activities is as follows: 
 
 
Nine Months Ended
 
 
Sept. 30,
 
Oct. 2,
 
$
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
 
Change
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
$
26,354

 
$
44,844

 
$
(18,490
)
Net cash used in investing activities
 
(27,620
)
 
(41,014
)
 
13,394

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities
 
(7,688
)
 
8,825

 
(16,513
)
Effects of exchange rate changes
 
524

 
(979
)
 
1,503

Net change in cash and cash equivalents
 
$
(8,430
)
 
$
11,676

 
$
(20,106
)
Net cash provided by operating activities totaled $26.4 million in the first nine months of 2016 versus $44.8 million in the comparable prior-year period. Net income decreased $6.5 million and the Company contributed $12.0 million to its domestic defined benefit pension plans in the first nine months of 2016 as compared to a contribution of $8.0 million in the first nine months of 2015.
Working capital requirements used cash of $18.7 million the first nine months of 2016 compared to a use of $11.0 million in the first nine months of 2015. We continued to decrease inventory levels due to working capital reduction initiatives in 2016; however, the benefit was lower by $6.6 million compared to the prior-year period. Cash flows used for accounts payable and accrued expenses decreased $17.0 million compared to the prior-year period primarily due to lower incentive compensation and



23



timing of payments. Cash flows used for accounts receivable increased $18.2 million due to higher sales in the third quarter of 2016 and timing of sales. Our three-month trailing days sales outstanding (DSO) was approximately 40 days at September 30, 2016 versus 44 days at December 31, 2015.
Net cash used in investing activities was $27.6 million in the first nine months of 2016 compared to $41.0 million in the prior-year corresponding period, reflecting decreased payments for mine development activities of $8.0 million, as well as decreased payments for property, plant, and equipment of $4.0 million.
Capital expenditures are made primarily for supporting mining and new product development, replacing and upgrading equipment, infrastructure investments, and implementing information technology initiatives. For the full year 2016, the Company expects payments for property, plant, and equipment to range from $25.0 million to $30.0 million and mine development expenditures to be approximately $9.0 million.
Net cash used in financing activities totaled $7.7 million in the first nine months of 2016 versus $8.8 million provided by financing activities in the comparable prior-year period primarily due to a decrease of $18.6 million in net borrowings in 2016.
Liquidity
We believe cash flow from operations plus the available borrowing capacity and our current cash balance are adequate to support operating requirements, capital expenditures, projected pension plan contributions, the current dividend and share repurchase programs, environmental remediation projects, and strategic acquisitions. At September 30, 2016, cash and cash equivalents held by our foreign operations totaled $14.8 million. We do not expect restrictions on repatriation of cash held outside of the United States to have a material effect on our overall liquidity, financial condition, or results of operations for the foreseeable future.
A summary of key data relative to our liquidity, including outstanding debt, cash, available borrowing capacity, and debt-to-debt-plus-equity ratio, as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015 is as follows:
 
 
September 30,
 
December 31,
(Thousands)
 
2016
 
2015
Total outstanding debt
 
$
16,579

 
$
13,266

Cash
 
15,806

 
24,236

Net debt (cash)
 
773

 
(10,970
)
Available borrowing capacity
 
$
215.2

 
$
221.8

Debt-to-debt-plus-equity ratio
 
3
%
 
3
%
Net debt (cash) is a non-GAAP measure. We are providing this information because we believe it is more indicative of our overall financial position. It is also a measure our management uses to assess financing and other decisions. We believe that based on our typical cash flow generated from operations, we can support a higher leverage ratio in future periods.
The available borrowing capacity in the table above represents the additional amounts that could be borrowed under our revolving credit facility and other secured lines existing as of the end of each period depicted. The applicable debt covenants have been taken into account when determining the available borrowing capacity, including the covenant that restricts the borrowing capacity to a multiple of the twelve-month trailing earnings before interest, income taxes, depreciation and amortization, and other adjustments. The main cause for the decrease in the available borrowing capacity at September 30, 2016 as compared to December 31, 2015 was the impact of this covenant.
In 2015, we entered into an amendment to our $375.0 million revolving credit agreement (Credit Agreement). The amendment extends the maturity date of the Credit Agreement from 2018 to 2020 and provides more favorable pricing under certain circumstances. In addition, the amendment provides the Company and its subsidiaries with additional capacity to enter into facilities for the consignment, borrowing, or leasing of precious metals and copper, and provides enhanced flexibility to finance acquisitions and other strategic initiatives. The Credit Agreement is secured by substantially all of the assets of the Company and its direct subsidiaries, with the exception of non-mining real property and certain other assets. The Credit Agreement



24



allows us to borrow money at a premium over LIBOR or the prime rate and at varying maturities. The premium resets quarterly according to the terms and conditions available under the Credit Agreement.
The Credit Agreement includes restrictive covenants including incurring restrictions on additional indebtedness, acquisitions, dividends, and stock repurchases. In addition, the Credit Agreement includes covenants subject to a maximum leverage ratio and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio. We were in compliance with all of our debt covenants as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. Cash on hand does not affect the covenants or the borrowing capacity under our debt agreements.
Portions of our business utilize off-balance sheet consignment arrangements to finance metal requirements. Expansion of business volumes and/or higher metal prices can put pressure on the consignment line limitations from time to time. As a result we have negotiated increases in the available capacity under existing lines, added additional lines, and extended the maturity dates of existing lines in recent years. The most recent amendment, completed in the third quarter of 2016 with our largest precious metals consignment facility, extended the maturity date from September 30, 2016 to September 30, 2019 and provided for more favorable pricing for fixed rate consignments. The available and unused capacity under the metal financing lines totaled approximately $166 million as of September 30, 2016. The availability is determined by Board approved levels and actual line capacity.
In January 2014, our Board of Directors approved a plan to repurchase up to $50.0 million of our common stock. The timing of the share repurchases will depend on several factors, including market and business conditions, our cash flow, debt levels, and other investment opportunities. There is no minimum required repurchase quantity for a given year, and the repurchases may be discontinued at any time. We repurchased 41,096 shares at a cost of $1.1 million in the third quarter of 2016 and 147,351 shares at a cost of $3.8 million in the first nine months of 2016. Since the approval of the repurchase plan, we have purchased 1,049,855 shares at a total cost of $33.2 million.
In the third quarter and first nine months of 2016, we paid cash dividends of $1.9 million and $5.6 million, respectively, on our common stock. We intend to pay a quarterly dividend on an ongoing basis, subject to a determination that the dividend remains in the best interest of our shareholders.
OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS AND CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS
We maintain the majority of the precious metals and copper we use in production on a consignment basis in order to reduce our exposure to metal price movements and to reduce our working capital investment. The notional value of off-balance sheet precious metals and copper was $283.9 million as of September 30, 2016, versus $214.7 million as of December 31, 2015. We were in compliance with all of the covenants contained in the consignment agreements as of September 30, 2016 and December 31, 2015. For additional information on our contractual obligations, refer to our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Historically, the Company conducted its annual goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible asset impairment assessments as of December 31 of each fiscal year; however, in fiscal year 2016, the Company changed the date of these assessments to the first day of the fourth quarter. The voluntary change in accounting principle is preferable as it will allow additional time for review of its goodwill and indefinite-lived intangible assets for impairment in advance of its year-end reporting and results in better alignment with its annual budgeting process. The change has been applied prospectively and it did not delay, accelerate, or avoid an impairment charge. This change is not applied retrospectively as it is impracticable to do so because retrospective application would require application of significant estimates and assumptions with the use of hindsight. Accordingly, the change will be applied prospectively.
For additional information regarding critical accounting policies, please refer to our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. There have been no other material changes in our critical accounting policies subsequent to the issuance of our Form 10-K.



25



OUTLOOK
We delivered sequential value-added sales growth for the third consecutive quarter. We continue to focus on new product introductions and filling our sales pipeline with commercial opportunities that leverage our innovative and differentiated products and provide value to our customers. Additionally, we remain focused on costs during these periods of low growth and improving our product mix.
The current macro-economic conditions are uncertain in the manufacturing sector globally. Our results are subject to some of the uncertainty around timing and quantity of several high purity beryllium orders and raw material beryllium hydroxide sales. In the third quarter of 2016, we sold approximately $8 million of raw material beryllium hydroxide on a spot basis, which reflects the current status of our commercial relationship. Therefore, different than the last 20 years, the sales of beryllium hydroxide raw material may not be as consistent on a quarterly basis.



26



Forward-looking Statements

Portions of the narrative set forth in this document that are not statements of historical or current facts are forward-looking statements. Our actual future performance may materially differ from that contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of a variety of factors. These factors include, in addition to those mentioned elsewhere herein:

Actual net sales, operating rates, and margins for 2016;

The global economy;

The impact of any U.S. Federal Government shutdowns and sequestrations;

The condition of the markets which we serve, whether defined geographically or by segment, with the major market segments being: consumer electronics, industrial components, medical, automotive electronics, defense, telecommunications infrastructure, energy, commercial aerospace, and science;

Our ability to successfully complete negotiations with our largest raw material beryllium hydroxide customer regarding its long-term supply of beryllium;

Changes in product mix and the financial condition of customers;

Our success in developing and introducing new products and new product ramp-up rates;

Our success in passing through the costs of raw materials to customers or otherwise mitigating fluctuating prices for those materials, including the impact of fluctuating prices on inventory values;

Our success in identifying acquisition candidates and in acquiring and integrating such businesses;

The impact of the results of acquisitions on our ability to fully achieve the strategic and financial objectives related to these acquisitions;

Our success in implementing our strategic plans and the timely and successful completion and start-up of any capital projects;

The availability of adequate lines of credit and the associated interest rates;

Other financial factors, including the cost and availability of raw materials (both base and precious metals), physical inventory valuations, metal financing fees, tax rates, exchange rates, pension costs and required cash contributions and other employee benefit costs, energy costs, regulatory compliance costs, the cost and availability of insurance, and the impact of our stock price on the cost of incentive compensation plans;

Our ability to strengthen our internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures;

The uncertainties related to the impact of war, terrorist activities, and acts of God;

Changes in government regulatory requirements and the enactment of new legislation that impacts our obligations and operations;

The conclusion of pending litigation matters in accordance with our expectation that there will be no material adverse effects;

The success of the realignment of our businesses; and

The risk factors set forth in Part 1, Item 1A of our Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015.



27



Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
For information regarding market risks, refer to our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015. There have been no material changes in our market risks since the inclusion of this discussion in our Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
a)Evaluation of Disclosure Controls and Procedures
The Company carried out an evaluation under the supervision and with participation of the Company's management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of disclosure controls and procedures as of September 30, 2016 pursuant to Rule 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (Exchange Act). Based on that evaluation, management, including the chief executive officer and chief financial officer, concluded that disclosure controls and procedures are effective as of September 30, 2016.
b)Changes in Internal Control over Financial Reporting
There have been no changes in the Company's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2016 that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company's internal control over financial reporting.



28



PART II OTHER INFORMATION
Item 1.
Legal Proceedings

Our subsidiaries and our holding company are subject, from time to time, to a variety of civil and administrative proceedings arising out of our normal operations, including, without limitation, product liability claims, health, safety, and environmental claims, and employment-related actions. Among such proceedings are cases alleging that plaintiffs have contracted, or have been placed at risk of contracting, beryllium sensitization or CBD or other lung conditions as a result of exposure to beryllium (beryllium cases). The plaintiffs in beryllium cases seek recovery under negligence and various other legal theories and demand compensatory and often punitive damages, in many cases of an unspecified sum. Spouses of some plaintiffs claim loss of consortium.

Beryllium Claims
Our subsidiary, Materion Brush Inc., was a defendant in one beryllium case (involving three plaintiffs), and one appellate case (involving four plaintiffs/appellants) that is being remanded to the trial court, as described more fully below.

The Company is one of five defendants in a case filed on October 4, 2013 in the Superior Court of the State of Arizona, Maricopa County, titled Parmar et al. v. Dolphin, Inc. et al., CV 2013-012980. One plaintiff alleges that he contracted CBD from exposures that resulted from his employment at manufacturing facilities of Karsten Manufacturing Corporation (Karsten) in Arizona, and asserts claims for negligence, strict liability, and fraudulent concealment. His wife claims a loss of consortium. Another plaintiff alleges that he has been diagnosed with beryllium sensitization that resulted from his employment at Karsten, and asserts a claim for medical monitoring. Plaintiffs seek compensatory and punitive damages and/or medical monitoring in unspecified sums. All parties negotiated a settlement agreement on September 8, 2016, pursuant to which the Company would settle the matter for an immaterial amount, and on September 9, 2016, plaintiffs filed a Notice of Settlement. On September 26, 2016, the trial court entered an order vacating the trial date and setting the matter for dismissal on December 22, 2016, unless a stipulated judgment or stipulation for dismissal is filed before then.

The Company was one of six defendants in a case filed on April 7, 2015 in the Superior Court of the State of California, Los Angeles County, titled Godoy et al. v. The Argen Corporation et al., BC578085. This was a survival and wrongful death complaint. The complaint alleged that the decedent worked at H. Kramer & Co. in California and alleged that he worked as a dental lab technician at various dental labs in California, and that he suffered from CBD and other injuries as a result of grinding, melting, and handling beryllium-containing products. The complaint alleged causes of action for negligence, strict liability - failure to warn, strict liability - design defect, fraudulent concealment, and breach of implied warranties. Plaintiffs sought punitive damages in connection with the strict liability and fraudulent concealment causes of action. The survival action sought all damages sustained by decedent that he would have been entitled to recover had he lived, including punitive damages. The Company filed a demurrer on May 29, 2015. At a hearing on September 29, 2015, the court sustained the demurrer, dismissing all claims against the Company, without leave to amend the complaint. On February 3, 2016, the plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal. On June 23, 2016, the California Supreme Court in a case titled Ramos v. Brenntag Specialties, 2016 WL 3435777, issued a unanimous opinion disapproving the case precedent upon which the Company’s successful demurrer had been based. Based on this decision, the parties stipulated that the judgment entered in favor of the defendants be reversed and the matter remanded to the trial court for further proceedings. There is currently a Status Conference scheduled for December 6, 2016.

The Company has insurance coverage, which may respond, subject to an annual deductible.






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Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
The following table presents information with respect to repurchases of common stock made by us during the three months ended September 30, 2016.
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)
 
Average Price Paid per Share (1)
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (2)
 
Maximum Dollar Value that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (2)
July 2 through August 5, 2016
 
16,440

 
$
25.71

 
16,440

 
$
17,502,621

August 6 through September 2, 2016
 
15,084

 
28.25

 
13,700

 
17,115,995

September 3 through September 30, 2016
 
11,012

 
29.77

 
10,956

 
16,789,946

Total
 
42,536

 
$
27.66

 
41,096

 
$
16,789,946

(1)
Includes 1,384 shares surrendered to the Company in August and 56 shares in September by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations on stock appreciation rights issued under the Company's stock incentive plan.
 
 
 
(2)
On January 14, 2014, we announced that our Board of Directors had authorized the repurchase of up to $50.0 million of our common stock. As of September 30, 2016, $16.8 million may still be purchased under the program. During the three months ended September 30, 2016, we repurchased 41,096 shares at an average price of $27.63 per share, or $1.1 million in the aggregate.
Item 4.
Mine Safety Disclosures
Information concerning mine safety violations or other regulatory matters required by Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and Item 104 of Regulation S-K (17 CFR 229.104) is included in Exhibit 95 to this quarterly report on Form 10-Q.



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Item 6.
Exhibits
10.1

Amendment No. 7 to Third Amended and Restated Precious Metals Agreement dated as of September 30, 2016, among Materion Corporation and other borrowers and The Bank of Nova Scotia (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on October 6, 2016 (file number 001-15885)), incorporated herein by reference.
 31.1
  
Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a)*
 31.2
  
Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a)*
 32
  
Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required by 18 U.S.C. Section 1350*
 95
  
Mine Safety Disclosure Pursuant to Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act for the period ended September 30, 2016*
 101.INS
  
XBRL Instance Document*
 101.SCH
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document*
 101.DEF
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document*
 101.CAL
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document*
 101.LAB
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document*
 101.PRE
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document*
*Submitted electronically herewith.




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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MATERION CORPORATION
 
 
 
Dated: October 27, 2016
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
/s/  JOSEPH P. KELLEY
 
 
 
 
Joseph P. Kelley
 
 
 
 
Vice President, Finance and Chief Financial Officer
 
 
 
 
(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)



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Exhibit Index
 
10.1
 
Amendment No. 7 to Third Amended and Restated Precious Metals Agreement dated as of September 30, 2016, among Materion Corporation and other borrowers and The Bank of Nova Scotia (filed as Exhibit 10.1 to the Company's Form 8-K filed on October 6, 2016 (file number 001-15885)), incorporated herein by reference.
31.1
  
Certification of Chief Executive Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a)*
31.2
  
Certification of Chief Financial Officer required by Rule 13a-14(a) or 15d-14(a)*
32
  
Certifications of Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer required by 18 U.S.C. Section 1350*
95
  
Mine Safety Disclosure Pursuant to Section 1503(a) of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act for the period ended September 30, 2016*
101.INS
  
XBRL Instance Document*
101.SCH
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document*
101.DEF
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document*
101.CAL
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document*
101.LAB
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document*
101.PRE
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document*

* Submitted electronically herewith.



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