Table of Contents

 

 

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 10-Q

 

(Mark One)

 

x

 

Quarterly report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

 

 

for the quarterly period ended June 30, 2008

 

or

 

o

 

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 000-24085

 


 

AXT, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

DELAWARE

 

94-3031310

(State or other jurisdiction of
Incorporation or organization)

 

(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)

 

4281 Technology Drive, Fremont, California 94538

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

 

(510) 683-5900

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 


 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities 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  x  NO  o

 

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 definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

 

Large accelerated filer o

 

Accelerated filer x

 

 

 

Non-accelerated filer o

 

Smaller reporting company o

(Do not check if a 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 o  NO  x

 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date.

 

Class

 

Outstanding at July 30, 2008

Common Stock, $0.001 par value

 

30,435,403

 

 

 



Table of Contents

 

AXT, INC.
FORM 10-Q
TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

Page

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

3

Item 1. Financial Statements (unaudited)

3

Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007

3

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007

4

Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007

5

Notes To Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements

6

Item 2. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

15

Item 3. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

27

Item 4. Controls and Procedures

28

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

29

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

29

Item 1A. Risk Factors

29

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

29

Item 3. Defaults Upon Senior Securities

29

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

29

Item 5. Other Information

29

Item 6. Exhibits

30

Signatures

31

 

2



Table of Contents

 

PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Financial Statements

 

AXT, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(Unaudited, in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Current assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

19,292

 

$

18,380

 

Short-term investments

 

17,698

 

20,825

 

Accounts receivable, net of allowances of $126 and $379 as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively

 

13,640

 

12,149

 

Inventories, net

 

38,887

 

24,781

 

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

 

5,970

 

3,569

 

Assets held for sale

 

 

5,140

 

Total current assets

 

95,487

 

84,844

 

Property, plant and equipment, net

 

19,100

 

15,986

 

Restricted deposits

 

6,400

 

6,700

 

Other assets

 

5,739

 

5,242

 

Total assets

 

$

126,726

 

$

112,772

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

Current liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

$

14,228

 

$

4,328

 

Accrued liabilities

 

4,639

 

4,326

 

Current portion of long-term debt

 

450

 

450

 

Income taxes payable

 

947

 

390

 

Total current liabilities

 

20,264

 

9,494

 

Long-term debt, net of current portion

 

5,962

 

6,250

 

Other long-term liabilities

 

3,028

 

3,778

 

Total liabilities

 

29,254

 

19,522

 

Commitments and contingencies (Note 10)

 

 

 

 

 

Stockholders’ equity:

 

 

 

 

 

Preferred stock, $0.001 par value per share; 2,000 shares authorized; 883 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007.

 

3,532

 

3,532

 

Common stock, $0.001 par value per share; 70,000 shares authorized; 30,435 and 30,358 shares issued and outstanding as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively

 

30

 

30

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

186,419

 

185,949

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(95,847

)

(98,543

)

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

3,338

 

2,282

 

Total stockholders’ equity

 

97,472

 

93,250

 

Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity

 

$

126,726

 

$

112,772

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

3



Table of Contents

 

AXT, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Unaudited, in thousands, except per share data)

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

$

19,932

 

$

13,639

 

$

39,566

 

$

26,165

 

Cost of revenue

 

13,488

 

8,607

 

26,901

 

15,728

 

Gross profit

 

6,444

 

5,032

 

12,665

 

10,437

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating expenses:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

3,578

 

3,743

 

7,245

 

7,446

 

Research and development

 

569

 

348

 

1,073

 

808

 

Impairment (recovery) on assets held for sale

 

 

(481

)

83

 

(481

)

Total operating expenses

 

4,147

 

3,610

 

8,401

 

7,773

 

Income from operations

 

2,297

 

1,422

 

4,264

 

2,664

 

Interest income, net

 

241

 

225

 

365

 

449

 

Minority interests

 

(648

)

(493

)

(1,147

)

(753

)

Other income (expense), net

 

(518

)

221

 

409

 

470

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income before provision for income taxes

 

1,372

 

1,375

 

3,891

 

2,830

 

Provision for income taxes

 

635

 

162

 

1,195

 

273

 

Net income

 

$

737

 

$

1,213

 

$

2,696

 

$

2,557

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

$

0.02

 

$

0.04

 

$

0.09

 

$

0.08

 

Diluted

 

$

0.02

 

$

0.04

 

$

0.08

 

$

0.08

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Shares used in computing net income per share:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

30,421

 

29,943

 

30,403

 

29,871

 

Diluted

 

31,562

 

31,142

 

31,573

 

31,233

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

4



Table of Contents

 

AXT, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Unaudited, in thousands)

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

2,696

 

$

2,557

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash used in operations:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

967

 

686

 

Accretion of marketable securities premium/discount

 

(2

)

(48

)

Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment

 

(2

)

 

Impairment (recovery) on assets held for sale

 

83

 

(481

)

Stock-based compensation

 

321

 

211

 

Realized loss (gain) on sale of investments

 

(326

)

29

 

Changes in assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts receivable

 

(1,361

)

(183

)

Inventories

 

(13,598

)

(4,590

)

Prepaid expenses

 

(2,143

)

(36

)

Other assets

 

(439

)

(512

)

Accounts payable

 

9,459

 

(1,656

)

Accrued liabilities

 

242

 

51

 

Income taxes

 

510

 

149

 

Other long-term liabilities

 

(908

)

(26

)

Net cash used in operating activities

 

(4,501

)

(3,849

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment

 

(3,079

)

(2,298

)

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

 

4

 

 

Proceeds from sale of assets held for sale

 

5,057

 

 

Purchases of marketable securities

 

(11,737

)

(10,254

)

Proceeds from sale of marketable securities

 

14,495

 

11,911

 

Decrease in restricted deposits

 

300

 

300

 

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities

 

5,040

 

(341

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities:

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from issuance of common stock, net

 

149

 

3,842

 

Long-term debt payments

 

(288

)

(387

)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities

 

(139

)

3,455

 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

 

512

 

35

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

912

 

(700

)

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period

 

18,380

 

16,116

 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period

 

$

19,292

 

$

15,416

 

 

See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

5



Table of Contents

 

AXT, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(Unaudited)

 

Note 1. Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements of AXT, Inc. (“AXT”, the “Company”, “we,” “us,” and “our” refer to AXT, Inc. and all of its consolidated subsidiaries) are unaudited, and have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America for interim financial information and with the instructions to Form 10-Q and Article 10 of Regulation S-X. Accordingly, the year-end condensed consolidated balance sheet data was derived from our audited consolidated financial statements, but does not include all disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In the opinion of our management, the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, considered necessary to present fairly the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of AXT and our subsidiaries for all periods presented.

 

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

 

The results of operations are not necessarily indicative of the results to be expected in the future or for the full fiscal year. It is recommended that these condensed consolidated financial statements be read in conjunction with our consolidated financial statements and the notes thereto included in our 2007 Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on March 14, 2008 and our Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended March 31, 2008 filed with the SEC on May 12, 2008.

 

Note 2. Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation

 

Effective January 1, 2006, we adopted the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment,” (“SFAS 123(R)”). SFAS 123(R) establishes accounting for stock-based awards exchanged for employee services. Accordingly, stock-based compensation cost is measured at the grant date, based on the fair value of the award, and is recognized as an expense over the employee requisite service period. All of our stock compensation is accounted for as an equity instrument. We previously applied Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees,” and related interpretations and provided the required pro forma disclosures of SFAS No. 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation” (“SFAS 123”.

 

We elected the modified prospective transition method for adopting SFAS 123(R). Under this method, the provisions of SFAS 123(R) apply to all awards granted or modified after the date of adoption. The unrecognized expense of awards not yet vested at the date of adoption will be recognized in net income in the periods after the date of adoption using the same Black-Scholes valuation method and assumptions determined under the original provisions of SFAS 123, as disclosed in our previous quarterly and annual reports.

 

The effect of recording stock compensation for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 was as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Stock-based compensation in the form of employee stock options, included in:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cost of revenue

 

$

15

 

$

13

 

$

31

 

$

26

 

Selling, general and administrative

 

93

 

60

 

215

 

149

 

Research and development

 

43

 

18

 

75

 

36

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total stock-based compensation

 

151

 

91

 

321

 

211

 

Tax effect on stock-based compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net effect on net income

 

$

151

 

$

91

 

$

321

 

$

211

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effect on basic net income per share

 

$

0.00

 

$

0.00

 

$

0.01

 

$

0.01

 

Effect on diluted net income per share

 

$

0.00

 

$

0.00

 

$

0.01

 

$

0.01

 

 

6



Table of Contents

 

As of June 30, 2008 the total compensation costs related to unvested stock-based awards granted to employees under our stock option plan but not yet recognized was approximately $1,096,000, net of estimated forfeitures of $133,000. These costs will be amortized on a straight-line basis over a weighted-average period of approximately 2.3 years and will be adjusted for subsequent changes in estimated forfeitures. We elected not to capitalize any stock-based compensation to inventory as of June 30, 2008 due to the immateriality of the amount.

 

The amortization of stock compensation under SFAS 123(R) for the period after our January 1, 2006 adoption is based on the single-option approach.

 

We estimate the fair value of stock options using a Black-Scholes valuation model, consistent with the provisions of SFAS 123(R), and the SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 107. There were no stock option grants made in the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 and no options were granted in the three months ended June 30, 2008. The fair value of our stock options granted to employees for the six months ended June 30, 2008 was estimated using the following weighted-average assumptions:

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30, 2008

 

Expected term (in years)

 

4.0

 

 

 

 

 

Volatility

 

60.79

%

 

 

 

 

Expected dividend

 

0

%

 

 

 

 

Risk-free interest rate

 

2.69

%

 

 

 

 

Estimated forfeitures

 

4.3

%

 

 

 

 

Weighted-average fair value

 

$

5.09

 

 

The following table summarizes the stock option transactions during six months ended June 30, 2008 (in thousands, except per share data):

 

 

 

Shares

 

Weighted-
average
Exercise
Price

 

Weighted-
average
Remaining
Contractual
Life
(in years
)

 

Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Options outstanding as of December 31, 2007

 

2,477

 

$

2.95

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Granted

 

2

 

5.09

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exercised

 

(78

)

1.92

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Canceled

 

(34

)

7

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Options outstanding as of June 30, 2008

 

2,367

 

$

2.93

 

6.54

 

$

4,556

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Options vested and expected to vest as of June 30, 2008

 

2,331

 

$

2.90

 

6.51

 

$

4,539

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Options exercisable as of June 30, 2008

 

1,699

 

$

2.44

 

5.82

 

$

3,901

 

 

As of December 31, 2007, options to purchase 1,638,139 shares at a weighted average exercise price of $2.56 per share were vested and exerciseable.

 

The aggregate intrinsic value in the table above represents the total pretax intrinsic value, based on our closing price of $4.19 as of June 30, 2008, which would have been received by the option holder had all option holders exercised their options as of that date. The total number of in-the-money options exerciseable as of June 30, 2008 was 1,572,927.

 

7



Table of Contents

 

The options outstanding and exercisable as of June 30, 2008 were in the following exercise price ranges:

 

Options Outstanding as of June 30, 2008

 

Options Exercisable
as of June 30, 2008

 

Range of Exercise Price

 

Shares

 

Weighted-average
Exercise Price

 

Weighted-average
Remaining
Contractual Life

 

Shares

 

Weighted-Average
Exercise Price

 

$1.17 - $1.38

 

1,203,281

 

$

1.28

 

6.40

 

989,436

 

$

1.28

 

$1.39 - $1.44

 

11,500

 

$

1.41

 

6.89

 

8,761

 

$

1.41

 

$1.45 - $2.24

 

415,863

 

$

2.16

 

4.76

 

407,728

 

$

2.16

 

$2.25 - $5.09

 

410,320

 

$

4.07

 

7.44

 

234,624

 

$

3.64

 

$5.10 - $41.50

 

326,175

 

$

8.62

 

8.20

 

58,500

 

$

19.17

 

 

 

2,367,139

 

$

2.93

 

6.54

 

1,699,049

 

$

2.44

 

 

The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, was $117,000 and $245,000, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007, was $90,000 and $160,000, respectively.  Cash received from option exercises for the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 was $81,000 and $149,000, respectively.  Cash received from option exercises for the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 was $183,000 and $228,000, respectively.

 

A summary of activity related to restricted stock awards for the six months ended June 30, 2008 is presented below:

 

 

 

Shares

 

Weighted-Average
Grant Date Fair Value

 

Non-vested restricted stock shares outstanding as of December 31, 2007

 

23,480

 

$

4.26

 

Restricted stock shares granted

 

 

$

 

Restricted stock shares vested

 

(3,536

)

$

3.77

 

Non-vested restricted stock shares outstanding as of June 30, 2008

 

19,944

 

$

4.26

 

 

As of June 30, 2008, we had $68,000 of unrecognized compensation expense, net of forfeitures, related to restricted stock awards, which will be recognized over the weighted average period of 2.02 years. During the six months ended June 30, 2008, 3,536 shares of restricted stock vested.

 

Note 3. Investments and Fair Value Measurements

 

Our cash, cash equivalents and investments, and strategic investments in privately-held companies are classified as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

June 30, 2008

 

December 31, 2007

 

 

 

 

 

Gross

 

Gross

 

 

 

 

 

Gross

 

Gross

 

 

 

 

 

Amortized

 

Unrealized

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Amortized

 

Unrealized

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

 

 

Cost

 

Gain

 

(Loss)

 

Value

 

Cost

 

Gain

 

(Loss)

 

Value

 

Classified as:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash

 

$

19,292

 

$

 

$

 

$

19,292

 

$

10,818

 

$

 

$

 

$

10,818

 

Cash equivalents:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Money market fund

 

 

 

 

 

7,562

 

 

 

7,562

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total cash equivalents

 

 

 

 

 

7,562

 

 

 

7,562

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total cash and cash equivalents

 

19,292

 

 

 

19,292

 

18,380

 

 

 

18,380

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

U.S. Treasury, agency securities

 

 

 

 

 

1,400

 

 

 

1,400

 

Asset-backed securities

 

 

 

 

 

3,820

 

 

(77

)

3,743

 

Commercial paper

 

 

 

 

 

3,300

 

 

(115

)

3,185

 

Corporate bonds

 

24,841

 

 

(743

)

24,098

 

19,051

 

260

 

(114

)

19,197

 

Total investments

 

24,841

 

 

(743

)

24,098

 

27,571

 

260

 

(306

)

27,525

 

Total cash, cash equivalents and investments

 

$

44,133

 

 

$

(743

)

$

43,390

 

$

45,951

 

$

260

 

$

(306

)

$

45,905

 

Contractual maturities on investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Due within 1 year

 

$

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

 

$

2,050

 

 

 

 

 

$

2,050

 

Due after 1 through 5 years

 

24,841

 

 

 

 

 

24,098

 

25,521

 

 

 

 

 

25,475

 

 

 

$

24,841

 

 

 

 

 

$

24,098

 

$

27,571

 

 

 

 

 

$

27,525

 

 

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The investments include $6.4 million and $6.7 million recorded as restricted deposits on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively, as a result of the outstanding principal amount on our industrial revenue bonds.  Subsequently on July 1, 2008, we paid down the entire principal amount of $6.4 million plus accrued interest and accordingly the restricted deposits were released.

 

We manage our investments as a single portfolio of highly marketable securities that is intended to be available to meet our current cash requirements. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2008, we had $133,000 in gross realized losses and $326,000 in gross realized gains on sales of our available-for-sale securities, respectively. For the three and six months ended June 30, 2007 we had $19,000 and $29,000 in gross realized losses on sales of our available-for-sale securities, respectively.

 

The gross unrealized losses related to our portfolio of available-for-sale securities were primarily due to a decrease in the fair value of debt securities. We have determined that the gross unrealized losses on our available-for-sale securities as of June 30, 2008 are temporary in nature. We reviewed our investment portfolio to identify and evaluate investments that have indications of possible impairment. Factors considered in determining whether a loss is temporary include the magnitude of the decline in market value, the length of time the market value has been below cost (or adjusted cost), credit quality, and our ability and intent to hold the securities for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value. The following table provides a breakdown of our available-for-sale securities with unrealized losses as of June 30, 2008 (in thousands):

 

 

 

In Loss Position

 

In Loss Position

 

Total In

 

 

 

< 12 months

 

> 12 months

 

Loss Position

 

 

 

 

 

Gross

 

 

 

Gross

 

 

 

Gross

 

 

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

Fair

 

Unrealized

 

 

 

Value

 

(Loss)

 

Value

 

(Loss)

 

Value

 

(Loss)

 

Investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate bonds

 

$

24,098

 

$

(743

)

$

 

$

 

$

24,098

 

$

743

)

Total in loss position

 

$

24,098

 

$

(743

)

$

 

$

 

$

24,098

 

$

(743

)

 

Investments in Privately-held Companies

 

We have made strategic investments in private companies located in China in order to gain access at a competitive cost to raw materials that are critical to our substrate business (see Note 9). As of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, our investments in privately-held companies had a carrying value of $5.4 million and $4.9 million, respectively. The investment balances for the two companies accounted for under the equity method are included in “other assets” in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. We own 25% of the ownership interests in each of these companies.

 

Fair Value Measurements

 

On January 1, 2008, we adopted SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS No. 157”) which defines fair value, establishes a framework for using fair value to measure assets and liabilities, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  SFAS No. 157 applies whenever other statements require or permit assets or liabilities to be measured at fair value.  SFAS No. 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, except for non-financial assets and liabilities that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a nonrecurring basis, for which application has been deferred for one year.

 

The following table summarizes our financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis in accordance with SFAS No. 157 as of June 30, 2008 (in thousands):

 

 

 

Balance as of
June 30, 2008

 

Quoted Prices in
Active Markets of
Identical Assets
(Level 1)

 

Significant Other
Observable Inputs
(Level 2)

 

Assets:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Short-term investments:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Corporate bonds

 

$

24,098

 

$

 

$

24,098

 

Total

 

$

24,098

 

$

 

$

24,098

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

$

 

$

 

$

 

 

Our financial assets and liabilities are valued using market prices on both active markets (Level 1) and less active markets (Level 2). Level 1 instrument valuations are obtained from real-time quotes for transactions in active exchange markets involving identical assets. Level 2 instrument valuations are obtained from readily-available pricing sources for comparable instruments. As of June 30, 2008, we did not have any assets or liabilities without observable market values that would require a high level of judgment to determine fair value (Level 3 assets).

 

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Table of Contents

 

Items Measured at Fair Value on a Nonrecurring Basis

 

Certain assets that are subject to nonrecurring fair value measurement are not included in the table above. These assets include equity and cost method investments in private companies. We did not record other-than-temporary impairment charges for either of these investments during the first six months of 2008.

 

Note 4. Inventories, Net

 

The components of inventories are summarized below (in thousands):

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

Inventories, net:

 

 

 

 

 

Raw materials

 

$

18,605

 

$

11,154

 

Work in process

 

15,249

 

12,254

 

Finished goods

 

5,033

 

1,373

 

 

 

$

38,887

 

$

24,781

 

 

Note 5. Recovery (Impairment) on Assets Held For Sale

 

During the first six months of 2008, we completed the sale of our property in Fremont, California for $5.3 million in gross proceeds and $5.1 million in net proceeds after deducting commissions and selling expenses. We recorded an impairment charge upon the sale of the property of $83,000.

 

During the first six months of 2007, we benefited from a recovery of impairment on assets held for sale in connection with our adjustment of the fair value of the same property in Fremont, California, which has been decontaminated and was being prepared for sale.  We recorded a $481,000 market value adjustment after we entered into an agreement with an independent third party purchaser in June 2007.  However, the sale ultimately was not consummated.

 

Note 6. Net Income Per Share

 

Basic net income per common share is calculated by dividing net income available to common stockholders by the weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted net income per common and common equivalent shares include the dilutive effect of common stock equivalents outstanding during the period calculated using the treasury stock method. Common stock equivalents consist of the shares issuable upon the exercise of stock options.

 

A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted net income per share calculations is as follows (in thousands, except per share data):

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Numerator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

737

 

$

1,213

 

$

2,696

 

$

2,557

 

Less: Preferred stock dividends

 

(44

)

(44

)

(88

)

(88

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income available to common stockholders

 

$

693

 

$

1,169

 

$

2,608

 

$

2,469

 

Denominator:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Denominator for basic net income per share - weighted average common shares

 

30,421

 

29,943

 

30,403

 

29,871

 

Effect of dilutive securities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common stock options

 

1,141

 

1,199

 

1,170

 

1,362

 

Denominator for dilutive net income per common share

 

31,562

 

31,142

 

31,573

 

31,233

 

Basic net income per share

 

$

0.02

 

$

0.04

 

$

0.09

 

$

0.08

 

Diluted net income per share

 

$

0.02

 

$

0.04

 

$

0.08

 

$

0.08

 

Options excluded from diluted net loss per share as the impact is anti-dilutive

 

130

 

372

 

130

 

362

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

Note 7. Comprehensive Income

 

The components of comprehensive income are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

June 30,

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

737

 

$

1,213

 

$

2,696

 

$

2,557

 

Change in foreign currency translation gain

 

601

 

369

 

1,753

 

599

 

Change in unrealized gain (loss) on available-for-sale investments

 

(150

)

443

 

(697

)

472

 

Comprehensive income

 

$

1,188

 

$

2,025

 

$

3,752

 

$

3,628

 

 

Note 8. Segment Information and Foreign Operations

 

Segment Information

 

We operate in one segment for the design, development, manufacture and distribution of high-performance compound semiconductor substrates and sale of materials. In accordance with SFAS No. 131, “Disclosures About Segments of an Enterprise and Related Information” (“SFAS No. 131”), our chief operating decision-maker has been identified as the Chief Executive Officer, who reviews operating results to make decisions about allocating our resources and assessing our performance. We manage the Company on a consolidated basis with a review of revenue by product.  We discuss revenue and capacity for both AXT and our China joint ventures collectively, when determining capacity constraints and need for raw materials in our business, and consider their capacity when determining our strategic and product marketing and advertising strategies.  While we consolidate three of the joint ventures, we do not allocate resources to any of them, nor allocate any portion of overhead, interest and other income, interest expense or taxes to them.  Accordingly, we have determined that our joint venture operations do not constitute an operating segment in accordance with SFAS No. 131.  Since we operate in one segment, all financial segment and product line information required by SFAS No. 131 can be found in the condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

Product Information

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

June 30,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Product by type:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GaAs substrates

 

$

13,142

 

$

9,296

 

$

26,862

 

$

18,088

 

InP substrates

 

500

 

660

 

978

 

1,178

 

Ge substrates

 

1,384

 

402

 

2,769

 

943

 

Raw materials and other

 

4,906

 

3,281

 

8,957

 

5,956

 

Consolidated

 

$

19,932

 

$

13,639

 

$

39,566

 

$

26,165

 

 

Geographical Information

 

The following table represents revenue amounts (in thousands) reported for products shipped to customers in the corresponding geographic region:

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

June 30,

 

June 30

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

Net revenues:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

North America*

 

$

5,437

 

$

2,756

 

$

10,436

 

$

6,098

 

Europe

 

3,966

 

2,606

 

6,783

 

4,671

 

Japan

 

4,595

 

3,012

 

8,735

 

5,398

 

Taiwan

 

2,061

 

2,228

 

4,868

 

4,040

 

Asia Pacific

 

3,873

 

3,037

 

8,744

 

5,958

 

Consolidated

 

$

19,932

 

$

13,639

 

$

39,566

 

$

26,165

 

 


*Primarily the United States

 

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Table of Contents

 

Long-lived assets consist primarily of property, plant and equipment, and are attributed to the geographic location in which they are located. Long-lived assets by geographic region were as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

As of

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

Long-lived assets:

 

 

 

 

 

North America

 

$

209

 

$

149

 

China

 

18,891

 

15,837

 

 

 

$

19,100

 

$

15,986

 

 

Significant Customers

 

Two customers represented 11.6% and 11.1% of revenues for the three month period ended June 30, 2008 while no customers represented more than 10% of revenues for the three month period ended June 30, 2007. No customers represented more than 10% of revenues for the six month periods ended June 30, 2008 and 2007.  Our top five customers represented 45.5% and 35.2% of revenue for the three month periods ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  Our top five customers represented 34.6% and 33.6% of revenue for the six month periods ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

Note 9. Investments in Privately-held Companies

 

We have made strategic investments in private companies located in China in order to gain access at a competitive cost to raw materials that are critical to our substrate business. Our investments in these privately-held companies are summarized below (in thousands):

 

 

 

Investment Balance as of

 

 

 

 

 

Company

 

June 30,
2008

 

December 31,
2007

 

Accounting
Method

 

Ownership
Percentage

 

Beijing Ji Ya Semiconductor Material Co., Ltd

 

$

996

 

$

996

 

Consolidated

 

46

%

Nanjing Jin Mei Gallium Co., Ltd

 

592

 

592

 

Consolidated

 

83

%

Beijing BoYu Semiconductor Vessel Craftwork Technology Co., Ltd

 

410

 

410

 

Consolidated

 

70

%

Xilingol Tongli Germanium Co., Ltd

 

2,494

 

2,138

 

Equity

 

25

%

Emeishan Jia Mei High Purity Metals Co., Ltd

 

888

 

761

 

Equity

 

25

%

 

The investment balances for the two companies accounted for under the equity method are included in “other assets” in the condensed consolidated balance sheets. We own 25% of the ownership interests in each of these companies. These two companies are not considered variable interest entities because:

 

·

 

both companies have sustainable businesses of their own;

 

 

 

·

 

our voting power is proportionate to our ownership interests;

 

 

 

·

 

we only recognize our respective share of the losses and/or residual returns generated by the companies if they occur; and

 

 

 

·

 

we do not have a controlling financial interest in, do not maintain operational or management control of, do not control the board of directors of, and are not required to provide additional investment or financial support to, either company.

 

Undistributed retained earnings relating to our investments were $10.1 million and $7.8 million as of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, respectively. Net income recorded from our investments was $1.2 million and $955,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively. Net income recorded from our investments was $2.2 million and $1.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.

 

The minority interest for the three majority-owned joint ventures that are consolidated is included within “Other long-term liabilities” in the condensed consolidated balance sheets and separately disclosed under “Minority interests” on the condensed consolidated statements of operations.  The equity earnings from the two minority-owned joint ventures that are not consolidated are recorded as “Other income (expense), net” on the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

We also have investments in two privately-held companies which are accounted for under the cost method as we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence over their operations. As of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, these investments totaled approximately $0.4 million and are included in “Other assets” on the condensed consolidated balance sheets.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Note 10. Commitments and Contingencies

 

Indemnification Agreements

 

We enter into standard indemnification arrangements in the ordinary course of business. Pursuant to these arrangements, we indemnify, hold harmless, and agree to reimburse the indemnified parties for losses suffered or incurred by the indemnified party, generally their business partners or customers, in connection with any U.S. patent, or any copyright or other intellectual property infringement claim by any third party with respect to our products. The term of these indemnification agreements is generally perpetual anytime after the execution of the agreement. The maximum potential amount of future payments we could be required to make under these agreements is unlimited. We have never incurred costs to defend lawsuits or settle claims related to these indemnification agreements. As a result, we believe the estimated fair value of these agreements is minimal.

 

We have entered into indemnification agreements with our directors and officers that may require us to indemnify our directors and officers against liabilities that may arise by reason of their status or service as directors or officers, other than liabilities arising from willful misconduct of a culpable nature; to advance their expenses incurred as a result of any proceeding against them as to which they could be indemnified; and to obtain directors’ and officers’ insurance if available on reasonable terms, which we currently have in place.

 

Product Warranty

 

We warrant our products for a specific period of time, generally twelve months, against material defects. We provide for the estimated future costs of warranty obligations in cost of sales when the related revenue is recognized. The accrued warranty costs represent the best estimate at the time of sale of the total costs that we expect to incur to repair or replace product parts that fail while still under warranty. The amount of accrued estimated warranty costs are primarily based on historical experience as to product failures as well as current information on repair costs. On a quarterly basis, we review the accrued balances and update these based on the historical warranty cost trends. The following table reflects the change in our warranty accrual which is included in “accrued liabilities” on the condensed consolidated balance sheets, during the three and six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 (in thousands):

 

 

 

Three Months Ended
June 30,

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Beginning accrued warranty and related costs

 

$

996

 

$

783

 

$

1,030

 

$

459

 

Charged to cost of revenue

 

379

 

244

 

408

 

696

 

Actual warranty expenditures

 

(66

)

(78

)

(129

)

(206

)

Ending accrued warranty and related costs

 

$

1,309

 

$

949

 

$

1,309

 

$

949

 

 

Note 11. Foreign Exchange Transaction Gains/Losses

 

We incurred foreign currency transaction exchange losses of $593,000 and $246,000 for the three month periods ended June 30, 2008, and 2007, respectively. We incurred foreign currency transaction exchange losses due to operations in general of $404,000 and $290,000 for the six month periods ended June 30, 2008, and 2007, respectively. These amounts are included in “Other income (expense), net” on the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

 

Note 12. Income Taxes

 

In July 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Interpretation No. 48 (“FIN48”), “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109)”  (“SFAS 109”). FIN 48 clarifies the accounting for uncertainty in income taxes recognized in an enterprise’s financial statements in accordance with SFAS 109. This interpretation prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. FIN 48 also provides guidance on derecognition of tax benefits, classification on the balance sheet, interest and penalties, accounting in interim periods, disclosure, and transition. We adopted FIN 48 effective January 1, 2007. We recognize interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions in income tax expense. As of June 30, 2008, we do not have any gross unrecognized tax benefits, nor any accrued interest and penalties related to uncertain tax positions. As a result of the implementation of FIN 48, we identified $16.4 million in unrecognized tax benefits. This amount decreased the tax loss carryforwards in the U.S. which are fully offset by a valuation allowance. We file income tax returns in the U.S. federal, various states and foreign jurisdictions. We have substantially concluded all U.S. federal and state income tax matters through December 31, 2007.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Note 13. Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (“SFAS 161”). SFAS 161 requires companies with derivative instruments to disclose information that should enable financial-statement users to understand how and why a company uses derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect a company’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Based on our current operations, we do not expect that the adoption of SFAS 161 will have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations”, (“SFAS 141R”). SFAS 141R establishes the principles and requirements for how an acquirer in a business combination (1) recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, (2) recognizes and measures the goodwill acquired in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase and (3) determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141(R) is effective beginning with the Company’s fiscal 2009. The impact of the adoption of SFAS 141(R) on the Company’s results of operations and financial position will depend on the nature and extent of business combinations that the Company completes, if any, in or after fiscal 2009.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“SFAS 160”). SFAS 160 requires that minority interest be separately reported in the consolidated entity’s equity section and that no gain or loss shall be reported when transactions occur between the controlling interest and the non-controlling interests. Furthermore, the acquisition of non-controlling interest by the controlling interest is not treated as a business combination. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We have not yet evaluated the impact that the adoption of SFAS 160 will have on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115” (“SFAS 159”). SFAS 159 expands the use of fair value accounting to many financial instruments and certain other items. The fair value option is irrevocable and generally made on an instrument-by-instrument basis, even if a company has similar instruments that it elects not to measure based on fair value. SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We do not have any instruments eligible for election of the fair value option. Therefore, the adoption of SFAS 159 in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework and gives guidance regarding the methods used for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods of those fiscal years. In February 2008, the FASB released a FASB Staff Position (FSP FAS 157-2— Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157 ) which delays the effective date of SFAS 157 for all nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually) to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. These non-financial items include assets and liabilities such as reporting units measured at fair value in a goodwill impairment test and non-financial assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. The partial adoption of SFAS 157 as of January 1, 2008 for financial assets and liabilities did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. See Note 3 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Note 14. Subsequent Events

 

On July 1, 2008, we exercised our right to redeem the taxable variable rate revenue bond and repaid all outstanding indebtedness and accrued interest under the terms of the revenue bond of approximately $6.4 million.  Accordingly, all of our remaining obligations under the revenue bond have terminated and the restricted deposits on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of June 30, 2008 have been released.

 

On July 2, 2008, we entered into a new lease agreement with T. Drive Partners, L.P., a California partnership, for the approximately 27,760 square foot facility located at 4281 Technology Drive, Fremont California.  The new lease commences on December 1, 2008 for a term of seven years. We have the option to cancel the lease at any time after December 1, 2013, upon forfeiture of the security deposit and payment of one-half of the fifth year’s rent.  The base rent for the new lease shall be $0.72 per square foot per month triple net, with annual rental increases of 4.5% per annum, payment of $50,000 security deposit, and tenant improvements of $575,000 to be amortized over seven years at 4% per annum.

 

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Table of Contents

 

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

 

This quarterly report on Form 10-Q, including the following sections, contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, particularly statements relating to our expectations regarding results of operations, customer demand, improvements in our product quality, our ability to expand our markets and increase sales, customer qualifications of our products, gross margins, favorable pricing, reliable supply and enhanced sourcing lead-times of raw materials, and our reserve balances. These forward-looking statements are based upon management’s current views with respect to future events and financial performance, and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from historical results or those anticipated in such forward-looking statements. Such risks and uncertainties include those set forth under the section entitled “Risk Factors” below, which identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted in any such forward-looking statements. We caution investors that actual results may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain risk factors identified in this Form 10-Q and other filings we have made with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Forward-looking statements may be identified by the use of terms such as “anticipates,” “believes,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” and similar expressions. Statements concerning our future or expected financial results and condition, business strategy and plans or objectives for future operations are forward-looking statements.

 

These forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. This discussion should be read in conjunction with Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007 and the condensed consolidated financial statements included elsewhere in this report.

 

Overview

 

We are a leading worldwide developer and producer of high-performance compound and single element semiconductor substrates comprising gallium arsenide (GaAs), indium phosphide (InP) and germanium (Ge). We currently sell the following substrate products in the sizes and for the applications indicated:

 

Product

 

 

Substrates

 

Diameter

 

Applications

GaAs (semi-insulating)

 

2” to 6”

 

·  Power amplifiers and integrated circuits for wireless handsets

 

 

 

 

·  Direct broadcast television

 

 

 

 

·  High-performance transistors

 

 

 

 

·  Satellite communications

 

 

 

 

 

GaAs (semi-conducting)

 

2”, 3”, 4”

 

·  High brightness LEDs

 

 

 

 

·  Lasers

 

 

 

 

·  Optical couplers

 

 

 

 

 

InP

 

2”, 3”, 4”

 

·  Broadband and fiber optic communications

 

 

 

 

 

Ge

 

2”, 4”

 

·  Satellite and terrestrial solar cells

 

 

 

 

·  Optical applications

 

We manufacture compound semiconductor substrates using our proprietary vertical gradient freeze, or VGF, technology. Our in-house VGF technology enables us to add capacity quickly and cost efficiently. We manufacture all of our products in China, which generally has lower costs for facilities, labor and materials.

 

We also have three majority-owned and two minority-owned joint ventures in China which provide us favorable pricing, reliable supply and enhanced sourcing lead-times for key raw materials which are central to our final manufactured products. These joint ventures produce products including 99.99% pure gallium (4N Ga), high purity gallium, arsenic, germanium, germanium dioxide, paralytic boron nitride (pBN) crucibles and boron oxide. AXT’s ownership interest in these entities ranges from 25% to 83%. We consolidate the three ventures in which we own a majority or controlling financial interest and employ equity accounting for the two joint ventures in which we have a 25% interest. We purchase portions of the materials produced by these ventures for our own use and the joint ventures sell the remainder of their production to third parties.

 

Revenue increased $13.4 million, or 51.2%, to $39.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $26.2 million for the same period of 2007 primarily due to higher customer demands for six-inch diameter wafers, and an increase in germanium substrates and raw material sales. On March 28, 2008, we completed the sale of our Fremont, California facility and received net proceeds of

 

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approximately $5.1 million after deducting commissions and selling expenses. As of June 30, 2008, we had available cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of $37.0 million, excluding restricted deposits.  Subsequently on July 1, 2008, we exercised our right to redeem the taxable variable rate revenue bond and repaid all outstanding indebtedness and accrued interests under the terms of the revenue bond of approximately $6.4 million.  Accordingly, all of our remaining obligations under the revenue bond have terminated and the restricted deposits on the condensed consolidated balance sheets as of June 30, 2008 have been released.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

We have prepared our condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. As such, we have had to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the amounts reported on our financial statements. These estimates, assumptions and judgments about future events and their effects on our results cannot be determined with certainty, and are made based upon our historical experience and on other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates may change as new events occur or additional information is obtained, and we may periodically be faced with uncertainties, the outcomes of which are not within our control and may not be known for a prolonged period of time. The discussion and analysis of our results of operations and financial condition are based upon these condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

We have identified the policies below as critical to our business operations and understanding of our financial condition and results of operations.

 

A critical accounting policy is one that is both material to the presentation of our financial statements and requires us to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments that could have a material effect on our financial condition and results of operations. They may require us to make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time of the estimate, and different estimates that we could have used, or changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur, may have a material impact on our financial condition or results of operations.

 

We believe that the following are our critical accounting policies:

 

Revenue Recognition

 

We manufacture and sell high-performance compound semiconductor substrates and sell certain raw materials including gallium, germanium dioxide, and pBN crucibles. After we ship our products, there are no remaining obligations or customer acceptance requirements that would preclude revenue recognition. Our products are typically sold pursuant to a purchase order placed by our customers, and our terms and conditions of sale do not require customer acceptance. We recognize revenue upon shipment and transfer of title of products to our customers, which is either upon shipment from our dock, receipt at the customer’s dock, or removal from consignment inventory at the customer’s location, provided that we have received a signed purchase order, the price is fixed or determinable, title and risk of ownership have transferred, collection of resulting receivables is probable, and product returns are reasonably estimable. We do not provide training, installation or commissioning services. Additionally, we do not provide discounts or other incentives to customers.

 

We provide for future returns based on historical experience, current economic trends and changes in customer demand at the time revenue is recognized.

 

Allowance for Doubtful Accounts

 

We periodically review the likelihood of collection on our accounts receivable balances and provide an allowance for doubtful accounts receivable primarily based upon the age of these accounts. We provide a 100% allowance for receivables from U.S. customers in excess of 90 days and for receivables from customers located outside the U.S. in excess of 120 days. We assess the probability of collection based on a number of factors, including the length of time a receivable balance has been outstanding, our past history with the customer and their creditworthiness.

 

As of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, our accounts receivable, net, balance was $13.6 million and $12.1 million, respectively, which was net of an allowance for doubtful accounts of $126,000 and $379,000, respectively. If actual uncollectible accounts differ substantially from our estimates, revisions to the estimated allowance for doubtful accounts would be required, which could have a material impact on our financial results for the period.

 

Warranty Reserve

 

We maintain a warranty reserve based upon our claims experience during the prior twelve months. Warranty costs are accrued at the time revenue is recognized. As of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, accrued product warranties totaled $1.3 million and $1.0 million, respectively. If actual warranty costs differ substantially from our estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required, which could have a material impact on our financial condition and results of operations.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Inventory Valuation

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined using the weighted average cost method. Our inventory consists of raw materials as well as finished goods and work-in-process that include material, labor and manufacturing overhead costs. Given the nature of our substrate products, and the materials used in the manufacturing process, the wafers and ingots comprising work-in-process may be held in inventory for up to two years and three years, respectively, as the risk of obsolescence for these materials is low. We routinely evaluate the levels of our inventory in light of current market conditions in order to identify excess and obsolete inventory, and we provide a valuation allowance for certain inventories based upon the age and quality of the product and the projections for sale of the completed products. As of June 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007, we had an inventory reserve of $12.8 million and $13.6 million for excess and obsolete inventory, respectively. The majority of this inventory has not been scrapped, and accordingly, may be sold in future periods. If actual demand for our products were to be substantially lower than estimated, additional inventory adjustments for excess or obsolete inventory might be required, which could have a material impact on our business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Impairment of Investments

 

We classify our investments in debt and equity securities as available-for-sale securities as prescribed by SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities”. All available-for-sale securities with a quoted market value below cost (or adjusted cost) are reviewed in order to determine whether the decline is other-than-temporary. Factors considered in determining whether a loss is temporary include the magnitude of the decline in market value, the length of time the market value has been below cost (or adjusted cost), credit quality, and our ability and intent to hold the securities for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in market value.

 

We invest in equity instruments of privately-held companies for business and strategic purposes. These investments are classified as other assets and are accounted for either under the cost method or under the equity method as we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence over their operations. We monitor our investments for impairment and would record reductions in carrying value when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Determination of impairment is highly subjective and is based on a number of factors, including an assessment of the strength of the investee’s management, the length of time and extent to which the fair value has been less than our cost basis, the financial condition and near-term prospects of the investee, fundamental changes to the business prospects of the investee, share prices of subsequent offerings, and our intent and ability to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in our carrying value.

 

Impairment of Long-Lived Assets

 

We evaluate the recoverability of property, equipment and intangible assets in accordance with SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets.” When events and circumstances indicate that long-lived assets may be impaired, we compare the carrying value of the long-lived assets to the projection of future undiscounted cash flows attributable to these assets. In the event that the carrying value exceeds the future undiscounted cash flows, we record an impairment charge against income equal to the excess of the carrying value over the assets’ fair value. Fair values are determined based on quoted market values, discounted cash flows or internal and external appraisals, as applicable. Assets held for sale are carried at the lower of carrying value or estimated net realizable value.

 

Employee Stock Options

 

We grant options to substantially all management employees and believe that this program helps us to attract, motivate and retain high quality employees, to the ultimate benefit of our stockholders. Effective January 1, 2006, we adopted the fair value recognition provisions of SFAS No. 123 (revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123(R)”), using the modified prospective application transition method. Under this transition method, stock-based compensation cost was recognized in the condensed consolidated financial statements for all share-based payments after January 1, 2006. Compensation cost recognized includes the estimated expense for the portion of the vesting period after January 1, 2006 for share-based payments prior to, but not vested as of January 1, 2006, based on the grant date fair value estimated in accordance with the original provisions of SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation.” We recognize these compensation costs net of an estimated forfeiture rate over the requisite service period of the award, which is generally the vesting term of four years for stock options. Results for prior periods have not been restated, as provided for under the modified prospective application transition method.

 

Income Taxes

 

We account for income taxes in accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes,” (“SFAS 109”) which requires that deferred tax assets and liabilities be recognized using enacted tax rates for the effect of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities. SFAS 109 also requires that deferred tax assets be reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized.

 

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Table of Contents

 

We provide for income taxes based upon the geographic composition of worldwide earnings and tax regulations governing each region, particularly China. The calculation of tax liabilities involves significant judgment in estimating the impact of uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws, particularly in foreign countries such as China.

 

Effective January 1, 2007, we adopted FASB Interpretation No. 48 (“FIN 48”), “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes—an interpretation of FASB Statement No. 109.” See Note 12 — “Income Taxes” in the condensed consolidated financial statements for additional information.

 

Results of Operations

 

Revenue

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

GaAs

 

$

13,142

 

$

9,296

 

$

3,846

 

41.4

%

InP

 

500

 

660

 

(160

)

(24.2

)%

Ge

 

1,384

 

402

 

982

 

244.3

%

Raw materials

 

4,906

 

3,281

 

1,625

 

49.5

%

Total revenue

 

$

19,932

 

$

13,639

 

$

6,293

 

46.1

%

 

Revenue increased $6.3 million, or 46.1%, to $19.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $13.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. Total GaAs substrate revenue increased $3.8 million, or 41.4%, to $13.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $9.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007.

 

Sales of 5 inch and 6 inch diameter GaAs substrates were $6.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $3.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in larger diameter semi-insulating substrates came from the growth in demand for both cellular and WLAN (Wide Local Area Network) markets. Our growth came particularly from production orders pursuant to a supply agreement we signed in the fourth quarter of 2007 with IQE plc.

 

 Sales of 2 inch, 3 inch and 4 inch diameter GaAs substrates were $7.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared with $5.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in revenue from smaller diameter substrates was due to the continued market growth generally of LED laser diodes and commercial epitaxy.

 

InP substrate revenue decreased $160,000, or 24.2%, to $500,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $660,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2007. In the three months ended June 30, 2007 we had a one-time sale of $251,000 indium scrap metal. Excluding the impact of the one-time sale, InP substrate revenue increased by $91,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to the three months ended June 30, 2007 due to a slight increase in demand from customers in the optical networking industry.

 

Ge substrate revenue increased $982,000, or 244.3%, to $1.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $402,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in Ge substrate revenue was due to an increase in sales to customers in the People’s Republic of China and an increase in sales to a major customer in Europe who has now qualified our product, as demand for photovoltaic applications increases.

 

Raw materials revenue increased $1.6 million, or 49.5%, to $4.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $3.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in raw materials revenue was primarily due to a combination of increased sales to customers as demand increased and higher raw materials prices. We do not expect demand to continue at this pace for the remainder of 2008.

 

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Table of Contents

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

GaAs

 

$

26,862

 

$

18,088

 

$

8,774

 

48.5

%

InP

 

978

 

1,178

 

(200

)

(17.0

)%

Ge

 

2,769

 

943

 

1,826

 

193.6

%

Raw materials

 

8,947

 

5,911

 

3,036

 

51.4

%

Other

 

10

 

45

 

(35

)

(77.8

)%

Total revenue

 

$

39,566

 

$

26,165

 

$

13,401

 

51.2

%

 

Revenue increased $13.4 million, or 51.2%, to $39.6 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $26.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. Total GaAs substrate revenue increased $8.8 million, or 48.5%, to $26.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $18.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007.

 

Sales of 5 inch and 6 inch diameter GaAs substrates were $12.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $8.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in larger diameter semi-insulating substrates came from the growth in demand for both cellular and WLAN (Wide Local Area Network) markets. Our growth came particularly from production orders pursuant to a supply agreement we signed in the fourth quarter of 2007 with IQE plc.

 

 Sales of 2 inch, 3 inch and 4 inch diameter GaAs substrates were $13.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared with $10.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in revenue from smaller diameter substrates was due to the continued market growth generally of LED laser diodes and commercial epitaxy.

 

InP substrate revenue decreased $200,000, or 17.0%, to $978,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $1.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. In the three months ended June 30, 2007 we had a one-time sale of $251,000 indium scrap metal. Excluding the impact of the one-time sale, InP substrate revenue increased $51,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2007due to a slight increase in demand from customers in the optical networking industry.

 

Ge substrate revenue increased $1.8 million, or 193.6%, to $2.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $943,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in Ge substrate revenue was due to an increase in sales to customers in the People’s Republic of China and an increase in sales to a major customer in Europe who has now qualified our product, as demand for photovoltaic applications increases.

 

Raw materials revenue increased $3.0 million, or 51.4%, to $8.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $5.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The increase in raw materials revenue was primarily due to a combination of increased sales to customers as demand increased and higher raw materials prices. We do not expect demand to continue at this pace for the remainder of 2008.

 

Revenue by Geographic Region

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

North America *

 

$

5,437

 

$

2,756

 

$

2,681

 

97.3

%

% of total revenue

 

27

%

20

%

 

 

 

 

Europe

 

3,966

 

2,606

 

1,360

 

52.2

%

% of total revenue

 

20

%

19

%

 

 

 

 

Japan

 

4,595

 

3,012

 

1,583

 

52.6

%

% of total revenue

 

23

%

22

%

 

 

 

 

Taiwan

 

2,061

 

2,228

 

(167

)

(7.5

)%

% of total revenue

 

10

%

17

%

 

 

 

 

Asia Pacific (excluding Japan and Taiwan)

 

3,873

 

3,037

 

836

 

27.5

%

% of total revenue

 

20

%

22

%

 

 

 

 

Total revenue

 

$

19,932

 

$

13,639

 

$

6,293

 

46.1

%

 


*Primarily the United States

 

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Revenue from customers in North America increased by $2.7 million, or 97.3%, to $5.4 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $2.8 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. We expected our North America revenue to increase substantially in 2008 based upon a supply agreement we signed in the fourth quarter of 2007 with IQE plc. Under the terms of the agreement, IQE plc shall purchase from us a minimum of approximately $15.1 million of 4-inch and 6-inch semi-insulating gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrates.  IQE plc has an option to purchase an additional $3.5 million of 6-inch substrates from us under the agreement.  All substrates ordered pursuant to the agreement are to be shipped by the end of 2008.

 

Revenue from customers in Europe increased by $1.4 million, or 52.2%, to $4.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $2.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. This increase came primarily from increased substrate sales to customers in Germany and France, and to a lesser extent from increased sales to a customer in the United Kingdom that is part of the IQE plc group with whom we signed a supply agreement in the fourth quarter of 2007.

 

Revenue from customers in Japan increased by $1.6 million, or 52.6%, to $4.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $3.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The increase came from $1.2 million increased substrate sales to two major existing customers, particularly in large diameter wafers, and from $0.4 million increased raw material sales of 4N gallium.

 

Revenue from customers in Taiwan decreased by $167,000, or 7.5%, to $2.1 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $2.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The decrease came mainly from one major existing customer for large diameter wafers.

 

Revenue from customers in Asia Pacific (excluding Japan and Taiwan) increased by $0.8 million, or 27.5%, to $3.9 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $3.0 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. Sales to customers in the People’s Republic of China increased by $1.1 million, of which raw materials was $0.5 million, while $0.6 million was from increased sales to existing customers for small diameter GaAs wafers. Sales to a major customer in Singapore that is part of the IQE plc group decreased by $0.5 million as they shifted some purchases to other geographic areas. Sales to customers in Korea increased by $0.2 million as demand increased in smaller diameter wafers.

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

North America *

 

$

10,436

 

$

6,098

 

$

4,338

 

71.1

%

% of total revenue

 

27

%

23

%

 

 

 

 

Europe

 

6,783

 

4,671

 

2,112

 

45.2

%

% of total revenue

 

17

%

18

%

 

 

 

 

Japan

 

8,735

 

5,398

 

3,337

 

61.8

%

% of total revenue

 

22

%

21

%

 

 

 

 

Taiwan

 

4,868

 

4,040

 

828

 

20.5

%

% of total revenue

 

12

%

15

%

 

 

 

 

Asia Pacific (excluding Japan and Taiwan)

 

8,744

 

5,958

 

2,786

 

46.8

%

% of total revenue

 

22

%

23

%

 

 

 

 

Total revenue

 

$

39,566

 

$

26,165

 

$

13,401

 

51.2

%

 


*Primarily the United States

 

Revenue from customers in North America increased by $4.3 million, or 71.1%, to $10.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $6.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. We expected our North America revenue to increase substantially in 2008 based upon a supply agreement we signed in the fourth quarter of 2007 with IQE plc. Under the terms of the agreement, IQE plc shall purchase from us a minimum of approximately $15.1 million of 4-inch and 6-inch semi-insulating gallium arsenide (GaAs) substrates.  IQE plc has an option to purchase an additional $3.5 million of 6-inch substrates from us under the agreement.  All substrates ordered pursuant to the agreement are to be shipped by the end of 2008.

 

Revenue from customers in Europe increased by $2.1 million, or 45.2%, to $6.8 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $4.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. This increase came primarily from increased substrate sales to customers in Germany and France, and to a lesser extent from increased sales to a customer in the United Kingdom that is part of the IQE plc group with whom we signed a supply agreement in the fourth quarter of 2007.

 

Revenue from customers in Japan increased by $3.3 million, or 61.8%, to $8.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $5.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The increase came from $2.8 million increased substrate sales to two major existing customers, particularly in large diameter wafers, and from $0.5 million increased raw material sales of 4N gallium.

 

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Table of Contents

 

Revenue from customers in Taiwan increased by $0.8 million, or 20.5%, to $4.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $4.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The increase came mainly from one major existing customer for large diameter wafers.

 

Revenue from customers in Asia Pacific (excluding Japan and Taiwan) increased by $2.8 million, or 46.8%, to $8.7 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $6.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. Sales to customers in the People’s Republic of China increased by $2.8 million, of which raw materials was $1.1 million, while $1.7 million was from increased sales to existing customers for small diameter GaAs wafers. Sales to a major customer in Singapore that is part of the IQE plc group decreased by $0.3 million as they shifted some purchases to other geographic areas. Sales to customers in Korea increased by $0.3 million as demand increased in smaller diameter wafers.

 

Gross Margin

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

$

6,444

 

$

5,032

 

$

1,412

 

28.1

%

Gross Margin %

 

32.3

%

36.9

%

 

 

 

 

 

Gross margin decreased to 32.3% of total revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from 36.9% of total revenue for the three months ended June 30, 2007. Gross margins in the three months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 were positively impacted by sales of approximately $735,000 and $387,000, respectively, of GaAs wafers that were previously fully reserved. In the three months ended June 30, 2007 we had manufacturing equipment that had become fully depreciated since the third quarter of 2006, and the absence of depreciation expense for this equipment, partially offset by depreciation on property, plant and equipment additions, contributed approximately 3.3 percentage points to gross margin in the three months ended June 30, 2007. In addition, we had a one-time sale of $251,000 indium scrap metal that contributed approximately 1.8 percentage points to gross margin in the three months ended June 30, 2007. In the subsequent four quarters since June 30, 2007, gross margins were negatively impacted by declining average selling prices and rising raw material costs, as well as an increase in depreciation as a result of our purchase of equipment acquired for our capacity expansion.

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

 

$

12,665

 

$

10,437

 

$

2,228

 

21.3

%

Gross Margin %

 

32.0

%

39.9

%

 

 

 

 

 

Gross margin decreased to 32.0% of total revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from 39.9% of total revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2007. Gross margins in the six months ended June 30, 2008 and 2007 were positively impacted by sales of approximately $1.4 million and $1.2 million, respectively, of GaAs wafers that were previously fully reserved. In the six months ended June 30, 2007 we had manufacturing equipment that had become fully depreciated since the third quarter of 2006, and the absence of depreciation expense for this equipment, partially offset by depreciation on property, plant and equipment additions, contributed approximately 3.2 percentage points to gross margin in the six months ended June 30, 2007. In addition, we had a one-time sale of $251,000 indium scrap metal that contributed approximately 1.0 percentage points to gross margin in the six months ended June 30, 2007. In the subsequent four quarters since June 30, 2007, gross margins were negatively impacted by declining average selling prices and rising raw material costs, as well as an increase in depreciation as a result of our purchase of equipment acquired for our capacity expansion.

 

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

$

3,578

 

$

3,743

 

$

(165

)

-4.4

%

% of total revenue

 

18.0

%

27.4

%

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $165,000 to $3.6 million for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $3.7 million for the three months ended June 30, 2007. The decrease was primarily due to $629,000 lower bad debt expenses as we collected from our slow-paying customers in Asia, partially offset by increases of $297,000 in general annual salary and related labor costs, $51,000 in stock based compensation expenses, $42,000 in health insurance costs, $32,000 in rent expenses, and $24,000 in sales commissions based on increased sales volumes.

 

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Table of Contents

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses

 

$

7,245

 

$

7,446

 

$

(201

)

-2.7

%

% of total revenue

 

18.3

%

28.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

Selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $201,000, or 2.7% to $7.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $7.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. The decrease was primarily due to $813,000 lower bad debt expenses as we collected from our slow-paying customers in Asia and $412,000 lower legal fees, partially offset by increases of $733,000 in general annual salary and related labor costs, $86,000 in sales commissions based on increased sales volumes, and $84,000 in stock based compensation.

 

Research and Development

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Research and development

 

$

569

 

$

348

 

$

221

 

63.5

%

% of total revenue

 

2.9

%

2.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

Research and development expenses increased $221,000, or 63.5% to $569,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $348,000 for the three months ended March 31, 2007. The increase was due to salary and related costs associated with the appointment of a new chief technology officer effective December 31, 2007, higher consulting fees and general annual salary and related cost increases.

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Research and development

 

$

1,073

 

$

808

 

$

265

 

32.8

%

% of total revenue

 

2.7

%

3.1

%

 

 

 

 

 

Research and development expenses increased $265,000, or 32.8% to $1.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $808,000 for the six months ended March 31, 2007. The increase was due to salary and related costs associated with the appointment of a new chief technology officer effective December 31, 2007, higher consulting fees and general annual salary and related cost increases.

 

Impairment (Recovery) on Assets Held For Sale

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment (Recovery) on assets held for sale

 

$

 

$

(481

)

$

481

 

NM

 

% of total revenue

 

0.0

%

-3.5

%

 

 

 

 

 

NM = % not meaningful

 

There was no impairment (recovery) charge for the three months ended June 30, 2008.  During the three months ended June 30, 2007, we benefited from a recovery of impairment of assets held for sale in connection with our adjustment of the fair value of our property located in Fremont, California, which had been decontaminated and was being prepared for sale.  We recorded a $481,000 market value adjustment after we entered into an agreement with an independent third party purchaser in June 2007 to purchase the property for estimated net proceeds of $5.1 million, after deducting estimated commission and selling expenses.  However, this independent third party purchaser backed out of the transaction and the sale was not consummated.

 

22



Table of Contents

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Impairment (Recovery) on assets held for sale

 

$

83

 

$

(481

)

$

(564

)

NM

 

% of total revenue

 

0.2

%

-1.8

%

 

 

 

 

 

NM = % not meaningful

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2008, we completed the sale of our property in Fremont, California. The escrow established to pay the purchase price was closed on March 28, 2008.  The final purchase price for the property was $5.3 million. We received net proceeds of $5.1 million after deducting commissions and selling expenses. We recorded an impairment charge upon the sale of the property of $83,000.

 

Interest Income, net

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income, net

 

$

241

 

$

225

 

$

16

 

7.1

%

% of total revenue

 

1.2

%

1.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income, net increased $16,000 to $241,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $225,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2007.  Interest income, net for the three months ended June 30, 2008 was the result of interest income received on a maturing investment, partially offset by lower interest expense from lower rates and a lower balance on our taxable revenue bond, while interest income, net for the three months ended June 30, 2007 was primarily generated from the net proceeds of our public offering of common stock, completed in December 2006 and January 2007.

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income, net

 

$

365

 

$

449

 

$

(84

)

-18.7

%

% of total revenue

 

0.9

%

1.7

%

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income, net decreased $84,000 to $365,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $449,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as a result of higher balances of our investments in the six months ended June 30, 2007, which came from the net proceeds of our public offering of common stock, completed in December 2006 and January 2007.

 

Minority interests

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interests

 

$

(648

)

$

(493

)

$

155

 

31.4

%

% of total revenue

 

(3.3

)%

(3.6

)%

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interests increased $155,000 or 31.4% to $648,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 from $493,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2007 as each of our three majority-owned joint ventures increased sales due to capacity expansion, and were more profitable, and consequently the minority interests increased.

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interests

 

$

(1,147

)

$

(753

)

$

394

 

52.3

%

% of total revenue

 

(2.9

)%

(2.9

)%

 

 

 

 

 

23



Table of Contents

 

Minority interests increased $394,000 or 52.3% to $1,147,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 from $753,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2007 as each of our three majority-owned joint ventures increased sales due to capacity expansion, and were more profitable, and consequently the minority interests increased.

 

Other Income and Expense, net

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Other income and expense, net

 

$

(518

)

$

221

 

$

(739

)

(334.4

)%

% of total revenue

 

(2.6

)%

1.6

%

 

 

 

 

 

Other expense, net was $518,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2008 primarily due to foreign currency transaction exchange losses of $593,000, partially offset by $75,000, net, of other income, mainly from our investments. Other income, net was $221,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2007 primarily $341,000 from our equity earnings from the two minority-owned joint ventures that are not consolidated and $126,000 other income, mainly insurance proceeds from a fire loss in China, partially offset by foreign currency transaction exchange losses of $246,000.

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Other income and expense, net

 

$

409

 

$

470

 

$

(61

)

(13.0

)%

% of total revenue

 

1.0

%

1.8

%

 

 

 

 

 

Other income, net was $409,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2008 primarily from $460,000 from our equity earnings from the two minority-owned joint ventures that are not consolidated, $326,000 from our realized gain on sale of investments, and $27,000 other income, partially offset by foreign currency transaction exchange losses of $404,000. Other income, net was $470,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2007 primarily $568,000 from our equity earnings from the two minority-owned joint ventures that are not consolidated and $192,000 other income, mainly insurance proceeds from a fire loss in China, partially offset by foreign currency transaction exchange losses of $290,000.

 

Provision for Income Taxes

 

 

 

Three Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Provision for income taxes

 

$

635

 

$

162

 

$

473

 

292.0

%

% of total revenue

 

3.2

%

1.2

%

 

 

 

 

 

We provided for income taxes of $635,000 for our China operations for the three months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $162,000 for the three months ended June 30, 2007. Beginning in 2008, the tax provision was calculated based on the assumption that we will no longer receive refunds for profit reinvestments in China.

 

 

 

Six Months Ended

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

June 30,

 

Increase

 

 

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

(Decrease)

 

% Change

 

 

 

($ in thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

Provision for income taxes

 

$

1,195

 

$

273

 

$

922

 

337.7

%

% of total revenue

 

3.0

%

1.0

%

 

 

 

 

 

We provided for income taxes of $1.2 million for our China operations for the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared to $273,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2007. Beginning in 2008, the tax provision was calculated based on the assumption that we will no longer receive refunds for profit reinvestments in China.

 

Liquidity and Capital Resources

 

As of June 30, 2008, our principal sources of liquidity were $37.0 million in cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, excluding restricted deposits. We consider cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments as liquid and available for use. Short-term investments are comprised of government bonds and high-grade commercial debt instruments.

 

24



Table of Contents

 

Cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments of $37.0 million decreased by $2.5 million in the second quarter of 2008 compared to the first quarter of 2008.

 

Net cash used in operating activities of $4.5 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 was primarily comprised of our net income of $2.7 million, adjusted for non-cash items of depreciation of $1.0 million, stock-based compensation of $0.3 million, partially offset by a realized gain on sale of investments of $0.3 million, and offset by a net increase of $8.2 million in assets and liabilities. The $8.2 million net increase in assets and liabilities primarily resulted from a $13.6 million increase in inventories, $2.1 million increase in prepaid expenses, $1.4 million increase in accounts receivable, $0.9 million decrease in other long-term liabilities, primarily minority interests, a $0.4 million increase in other assets, partially offset by a $9.5 million increase in accounts payable, a $0.5 million increase in income taxes payable, and a $0.2 million increase in accrued liabilities.

 

Inventories, net, increased by $13.6 million, as we increased inventory in raw materials to avoid certain transportation restrictions prior to the commencement of the Beijing Olympics, and work-in-process to increase production in anticipation of increased forecast sales, and finished goods for consignment orders.

 

Accounts receivable, net increased by $1.4 million, as a result of increased sales and a slight reduction in our allowance for doubtful accounts. Our days sales outstanding (DSO) is 62 days as of June 30, 2008 compared to 77 days as of March 31, 2008, and compared to 64 days as of December 31, 2007.

 

Net cash provided by investing activities of $5.0 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 was primarily from the proceeds from the sale of investments of $14.5 million, proceeds from sale of assets held for sale of $5.1 million and the decrease of restricted cash of $0.3 million, partially offset by the purchase of investments totaling $11.7 million, and the purchase of property, plant and equipment, of $3.1 million.

 

We expect to invest approximately $2.7 million in capital projects for the remainder of 2008. We believe that our existing and planned facilities and equipment are sufficient to fulfill current and expected future orders.

 

Net cash used in financing activities of $0.1 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 consisted of scheduled payments of $0.3 million related to long-term borrowings, partially offset by $0.1 million from the proceeds from the exercise of employee stock options.

 

Our main Fremont, California facility was financed by long-term borrowings, which were refinanced by taxable variable rate revenue bonds in 1998. These bonds were traded on the public market, were set to mature in 2023 and bore a variable interest rate that was 3.0% as of June 30, 2008. Repayment of principal and interest under the bonds was supported by a letter of credit from our bank and was being paid on a quarterly basis. As of June 30, 2008, the credit facility maintained by us with a bank included a letter of credit supporting repayment of these bonds with an outstanding amount of $6.4 million.

 

We had pledged and placed a like amount of investment securities with an affiliate of the bank as additional collateral for this facility, and had the option to redeem the bonds in whole or part during their term. We completed the sale of our Fremont, California facility on March 28, 2008, and received net proceeds of approximately $5.1 million after deducting commissions and selling expenses. Subsequently on July 1, 2008, we have repaid the outstanding principal and accrued interest on the revenue bond of approximately $6.4 million, and accordingly our restricted cash in such amount has been released.

 

We believe that we have adequate cash and investments to meet our needs over the next 12 months. If our performance fails to improve, we will continue to use cash and may at some time be forced to seek additional capital. There can be no assurance that such additional capital will be available or, if available it will be at terms acceptable to us. Cash from operations could be affected by various risks and uncertainties, including, but not limited to those set forth below under Item 1A “Risks Factors.”

 

Outstanding contractual obligations as of June 30, 2008, which do not reflect our repayment of the revenue bonds on July 1, 2008, are summarized as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

Payments due by period

 

Contractual Obligations

 

Total

 

Less than
1 year

 

1 - 3
years

 

3 - 5
years

 

More than
5 years

 

Debt

 

$

6,412

 

$

450

 

$

912

 

$

900

 

$

4,150

 

Operating leases

 

3,576

 

723

 

1,507

 

1,346

 

 

Less: Sublease income

 

(956

)

(190

)

(398

)

(368

)

 

Purchase obligation

 

2,490

 

2,490

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

11,522

 

$

3,473

 

$

2,021

 

$

1,878

 

$

4,150

 

 

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Table of Contents

 

We lease certain office space, manufacturing facilities and property under long-term operating leases expiring at various dates through March 2013. Total rent payments under these operating leases were approximately $0.2 million and $0.2 million for the three month periods ended June 30, 2008 and 2007, respectively.  On July 2, 2008, we entered into a new lease agreement with T. Drive Partners, L.P., a California partnership of the facility located at 4281 Technology Drive, Fremont California with approximately 27,760 square feet.  The new lease shall commence on December 1, 2008 for a term of seven years, with an option by us to cancel after five years, upon forfeiture of the security deposit and payment of one-half of the fifth year’s rent.  The base rent for the new lease shall be $0.72 per square foot per month triple net, with annual rental increases of 4.5% per annum, payment of $50,000 security deposit, and tenant improvements of $575,000 to be amortized over seven years at 4% per annum.

 

On February 27, 2007, we entered into an agreement with Recapture Metals Limited of Ontario, Canada (“Recapture”), pursuant to which Recapture will supply our subsidiary in the PRC with one thousand kilograms per month of 99.99999% pure gallium, during the eighteen month period beginning July 1, 2007. Under the terms of the agreement, we are required to purchase a minimum of eighteen thousand kilograms of gallium, unless the agreement is terminated prior to the expiration of the eighteen month period on December 31, 2008.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued SFAS No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities” (“SFAS 161”). SFAS 161 requires companies with derivative instruments to disclose information that should enable financial-statement users to understand how and why a company uses derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect a company’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. SFAS 161 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after November 15, 2008. Based on our current operations, we do not expect that the adoption of SFAS 161 will have a material impact on our consolidated financial position or results of operations.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 141 (revised 2007), “Business Combinations”, (“SFAS 141R”). SFAS 141R establishes the principles and requirements for how an acquirer in a business combination (1) recognizes and measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, (2) recognizes and measures the goodwill acquired in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase and (3) determines what information to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination. SFAS 141(R) will be applicable beginning with our fiscal 2009. The impact of the adoption of SFAS 141(R) on our results of operations and financial position will depend on the nature and extent of business combinations that we complete, if any, in or after fiscal 2009.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements” (“SFAS 160”). SFAS 160 requires that minority interest be separately reported in the consolidated entity’s equity section and that no gain or loss shall be reported when transactions occur between the controlling interest and the non-controlling interests. Furthermore, the acquisition of non-controlling interest by the controlling interest is not treated as a business combination. SFAS 160 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2008. We have not yet evaluated the impact that the adoption of of SFAS 160 will have on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued SFAS No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities—Including an amendment of FASB Statement No. 115” (“SFAS 159”). SFAS 159 expands the use of fair value accounting to many financial instruments and certain other items. The fair value option is irrevocable and generally made on an instrument-by-instrument basis, even if a company has similar instruments that it elects not to measure based on fair value. SFAS 159 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007. We do not have any instruments eligible for election of the fair value option. Therefore, the adoption of SFAS 159 in the first quarter of fiscal 2008 did not impact our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued SFAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (“SFAS 157”). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework and gives guidance regarding the methods used for measuring fair value, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. SFAS 157 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods of those fiscal years. In February 2008, the FASB released a FASB Staff Position (FSP FAS 157-2— Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157) which delays the effective date of SFAS 157 for all nonfinancial assets and nonfinancial liabilities, except those that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually) to fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2008. These non-financial items include assets and liabilities such as reporting units measured at fair value in a goodwill impairment test and non-financial assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination. The partial adoption of SFAS 157 as of January 1, 2008 for financial assets and liabilities did not have a material impact on our condensed consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows. See Note 3 of the Notes to Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

26



Table of Contents

 

ITEM 3. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

 

Foreign Currency Risk

 

A significant portion of our business is conducted in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. The functional currency for our foreign operations is the Renminbi, the local currency of China, where our operating expenses are predominantly in the local currency. Since most of our operations are conducted in China, most of our costs are incurred in Chinese currency, which subjects us to fluctuations in the exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the Chinese Renminbi. We incur transaction gains or losses resulting from consolidation of expenses incurred in local currencies for these subsidiaries, as well as in translation of the assets and liabilities of these assets at each balance sheet date. These risks may be increased by the fluctuations and revaluations of the Chinese Renminbi. Our financial results could be adversely affected by factors such as changes in foreign currency exchange rates or weak economic conditions in foreign markets, including the revaluation by China of the Renminbi, and any future adjustments that China may make to its currency such as any move it might make to a managed float systems with opportunistic interventions. We also have certain trade accounts receivable denominated in Japanese Yen. In the future we may experience foreign exchange losses on our non-functional currency denominated receivables and payables to the extent that we have not mitigated our exposure utilizing foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Foreign exchange losses could have a materially adverse effect on our operating results and cash flows.

 

We do not currently use short-term forward exchange contracts for hedging purposes to reduce the effects of adverse foreign exchange rate movements. We had previously purchased foreign exchange contracts to hedge against certain trade accounts receivable denominated in Japanese yen. The change in the fair value of the forward contracts was recognized as part of the related foreign currency transactions as they occur. As of June 30, 2008, we had no outstanding commitments with respect to foreign exchange contracts.

 

In the three months ended June 30, 2008, we recorded net realized foreign exchange losses of $593,000, included as part of other expense in our consolidated statements of operations. The foreign exchange losses were primarily due to fluctuation in the Japanese Yen versus the U.S. dollar on our Yen-denominated accounts receivables. During the second quarter of 2008, we recorded unrealized foreign currency gains of $601,000 in cumulative other comprehensive income on our condensed consolidated balance sheets.

 

Interest Rate Risk

 

Cash and cash equivalents earning interest and certain variable rate debt instruments are subject to interest rate fluctuations. The following table sets forth the probable impact of a 10% change in interest rates (in thousands):

 

Instrument

 

Balance as of
June 30,
2008

 

Current
Interest
Rate

 

Projected Annual
Interest
Income/(Expense)

 

Proforma 10%
Interest Rate
Decline
Income/(Expense)

 

Proforma 10%
Interest Rate
Increase
Income/(Expense)

 

Cash

 

$

19,292

 

0.50

%

$

96

 

$

87

 

$

106

 

Investment in debt and equity instruments

 

24,098

 

2.38

%

574

 

516

 

631

 

Long-term debt

 

(6,400

)

3.00

%

(192

)

(173

)

(211

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

478

 

$

430

 

$

526

 

 

The primary objective of our investment activities is to preserve principal while maximizing income without significantly increasing risk. Financial instruments that potentially subject us to concentration of credit risk consist primarily of cash equivalents, short-term investments, and trade accounts receivable. We invest primarily in money market accounts, commercial paper instruments, and investment grade securities. We are exposed to credit risks in the event of default by the issuers to the extent of the amount recorded on the consolidated balance sheets. These securities are generally classified as available-for-sale and consequently are recorded on the balance sheet at fair value with unrealized gains or losses reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income, net of estimated tax. Our cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments are in high-quality securities placed with major banks and financial institutions and commercial paper. We have no investments in auction rate securities.

 

Equity Risk

 

We maintain minority investments in privately-held companies. These investments are reviewed for other than temporary declines in value on a quarterly basis. These investments are classified as other assets in the condensed consolidated balance sheets and are accounted for either under the cost method or under the equity method as we do not have the ability to exercise significant influence over their operations. We monitor our investments for impairment and record reductions in carrying value when events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying value may not be recoverable. Reasons for other than temporary declines in value include whether the related company would have insufficient cash flow to operate for the next twelve months, significant changes in the operating performance and changes in market conditions. As of June 30, 2008, the minority investments accounted for under the cost method totaled $0.4 million, while minority investments accounted for under the equity method totaled $3.4 million.

 

27



Table of Contents

 

ITEM 4. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

 

Disclosure Controls and Procedures

 

Under the supervision and with the participation of our management, our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer have evaluated the effectiveness of the design and operation of our disclosure controls and procedures, as such terms are defined under Rule 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e) promulgated under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based upon that evaluation, our Chief Executive Officer and our Chief Financial Officer concluded that the our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of the end of the period covered by this quarterly report.

 

Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting

 

No change in our internal control over financial reporting was made in the three months ended June 30, 2008 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.

 

28



Table of Contents

 

PART II. OTHER INFORMATION

 

Item 1. Legal Proceedings

 

From time to time we may be involved in judicial or administrative proceedings concerning matters arising in the ordinary course of business. We do not expect that any of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, cash flows or results of operation.

 

On October 15, 2004, a purported securities class action lawsuit was filed in the United States Court for the Northern District of California, City of Harper Woods Employees Retirement System v. AXT, Inc. et al., No. C 04 4362 MJJ. The Court consolidated the case with a subsequent related case and appointed a lead plaintiff. On April 5, 2005, the lead plaintiff filed a consolidated complaint, captioned as Morgan v. AXT, Inc. et al., No. C 04 4362 MJJ. The lawsuit named AXT, Inc. and our former chief technology officer as defendants, and was brought on behalf of a class of all purchasers of our securities from February 6, 2001 through April 27, 2004. The complaint alleged that we announced financial results during this period that were false and misleading. No specific amount of damages was claimed. On September 23, 2005, the Court granted our motion to dismiss the complaint, with leave to amend. The lead plaintiff filed an amended complaint, which we had moved to dismiss. On April 24, 2007, we reached a settlement of this litigation. On February 27, 2008, the district court approved the settlement, and subsequently entered a judgment of dismissal.

 

The claims of a former employee, Steve X. Chen, that his layoff was due to his race and national origin were resolved without cost to the Company.

 

Item 1A. Risk Factors

 

There are no material changes from the risk factors set forth under Part I, Item 1A. “Risk Factors” in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2007.

 

Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

 

None

 

Item 3. Defaults upon Senior Securities

 

None

 

Item 4. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

 

AXT held its annual meeting of stockholders at its headquarters in Fremont, California on May 20, 2008.  Of the 30,989,501 shares outstanding as of the record date, 26,007,714 shares were represented in person or by proxy at the meeting.  Proxies were solicited by the Company pursuant to Regulation 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.  At the meeting, AXT’s stockholders voted on the following matters:

 

(1)               Proposal to elect two class I directors to hold office for a three-year term, and until their successors are elected and qualified.

 

Class I directors

 

For

 

Abstain

 

 

 

Morris S. Young

 

24,691,881

 

1,265,833

 

 

 

David C. Chang

 

25,459,209

 

548,505

 

 

 

 

In addition, the term of office as directors of Dr. Philip C.S. Yin, Mr. Jesse Chen and Mr. Leonard LeBlanc continued after the meeting.

 

(2)               Proposal to ratify the appointment of Burr, Pilger & Mayer LLP as independent registered public accounting firm for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2008

 

 

 

For

 

Against

 

Abstain

 

Burr, Pilger & Mayer LLP

 

25,918,343

 

64,463

 

24,908

 

 

Accordingly, both proposals were approved by the stockholders.

 

Item 5. Other Information

 

None

 

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Item 6. Exhibits

 

a. Exhibits

 

Exhibit
Number

 

Description

 

 

 

3.1(1)

 

Restated Certificate of Incorporation

 

 

 

3.2(2)

 

Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Series A Preferred Stock.

 

 

 

3.3(3)

 

Second Amended and Restated By Laws

 

 

 

4.2(4)

 

Rights Agreement dated April 24, 2001 by and between AXT, Inc. and ComputerShare Trust Company, Inc.

 

 

 

10.28(5)

 

Lease Agreement executed July 2, 2008 by and between AXT, Inc. and T. Drive Partners, L.P. a California partnership.

 

 

 

31.1

 

Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

31.2

 

Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

32.1

 

Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

32.2

 

Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 


(1) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit as of the same number as filed with the SEC in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998.

 

(2) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on June 14, 1999.

 

(3)  Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to our Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on May 30, 2001.

 

(4) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit of the same number as filed with the SEC in our Form 8-K on May 30, 2001.

 

(5) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit of the same number as filed with the SEC in our Form 8-K on July 8, 2008.

 

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Table of Contents

 

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.

 

 

AXT, INC.

 

 

 

Dated: August 11, 2008

By:

/s/ Philip C. S. Yin

 

 

Philip C. S. Yin

 

 

Chairman of the Board and
Chief Executive Officer

 

 

(Principal Executive Officer)

 

 

 

 

 

/s/ Wilson W. Cheung

 

 

Wilson W. Cheung

 

 

Chief Financial Officer

 

 

(Principal Financial and Accounting Officer)

 

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Table of Contents

 

EXHIBIT INDEX

 

Exhibit
Number

 

Description

 

 

 

3.1(1)

 

Restated Certificate of Incorporation

 

 

 

3.2(2)

 

Certificate of Designation, Preferences and Rights of Series A Preferred Stock (which is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 2.1 to the registrant’s form 8-K dated May 28, 1999).

 

 

 

3.3(3)

 

Second Amended and Restated By Laws

 

 

 

4.2(4)

 

Rights Agreement dated April 24, 2001 by and between AXT, Inc. and ComputerShare Trust Company, Inc.

 

 

 

10.28(5)

 

Lease Agreement executed July 2, 2008 by and between AXT, Inc. and T. Drive Partners, L.P. a California partnership.

 

 

 

31.1

 

Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

31.2

 

Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

32.1

 

Certification by Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

 

 

32.2

 

Certification by Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 


(1) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit of the same number as filed with the SEC in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998.

 

(2) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.1 to our Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on June 14, 1999.

 

(3) Incorporated by reference to Exhibit 3.4 to our Form 8-K as filed with the SEC on May 30, 2001.

 

(4) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit of the same number as filed with the SEC in our Form 8-K on May 30, 2001

 

(5) Incorporated by reference to the exhibit as of the same number as filed with the SEC in our Form 8-K on July 8, 2008.

 

32