Commission File No. 1-4212 ================================================================================ SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549 FORM 20-F ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2003 ------------------------- AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LTD. (Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter and translation of Registrant's name into English) --------------------------------- Israel (Jurisdiction of incorporation or organization) P.O. Box 142, Hadera 38101, Israel (Address of principal executive offices) ------------------------------ Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Title of each class Name of each exchange on which registered Ordinary Shares, par value NIS .01 per share American Stock Exchange Securities registered or to be registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None (Title of Class) Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None (Title of Class) ----------------------------------------------- Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer's classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report: 3,968,295 Ordinary Shares, par value NIS .01 per share Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days: Yes |X| No |_|. Indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow: Item 17 |_| Item 18 |X| PART I ITEM 1 - IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS Not applicable to Annual Reports ITEM 2 - OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE Not applicable to Annual Reports ITEM 3 - KEY INFORMATION A. Selected Financial Data The Company prepares its financial statements in accordance with Israeli GAAP. Israeli GAAP and U.S. GAAP vary in certain respects, as described in ITEM 18 below. The following selected financial data is derived from the audited consolidated financial statements of American Israeli Paper Mills Ltd. ("AIPM" or the "Company"). The consolidated financial statements since 2000 were influenced significantly by the following transactions: (a) The finalization of the joint venture with Neusiedler AG (NAG), an Austrian corporation, under which Neusiedler Hadera Paper (NHP), a company engaged in the manufacture of printing and writing paper was formed, effective January 1, 2000, and in which NAG holds 50.1% and AIPM holds 49.9% of the shares. Consequently, as of that date, the results of NHP's operations are no longer consolidated with the results of the Company. Since January 1, 2000, AIPM's share in NHP's results is included in the Company's statement of income under the item "Company's share in profits of associated companies." In the balance sheets, AIPM's share in the shareholders' equity of NHP is included in "Investments in associated companies." (b) On March 31, 2000, Kimberly-Clark Corporation (KC) exercised the option that was granted to it in January 2000 and acquired from AIPM 0.2% of the shares in Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. in return for $5 million, thereby increasing its holdings in Hogla-Kimberly to 50.1%. Consequently, as of the second quarter of 2000, the results of Hogla-Kimberly are no longer consolidated with AIPM's consolidated results and AIPM's share in the results of operations of Hogla-Kimberly (49.9%) is included in the item "Company's share in the profits of associated companies." AIPM's share in the shareholders' equity of Hogla-Kimberly is included in the balance sheets under "Investments in associated companies." 2 The following table sets forth certain selected financial data with respect to the Company presented in New Israeli Shekel (NIS): Five Fiscal Year Financial Summary/1/ According to Israeli GAAP (In Thousands of Adjusted NIS Except Per Share Amounts) Year Ended December 31 Income Statement data: --------------------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 /2/2000 /2/1999 --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Net Sales 465,092 455,775 469,709 745,946 1,665,690 Operating Income 46,584 36,454 20,526 63,212 156,839 Share in profits of associated companies, net 35,549 16,727 15,011 36,034 2,763 Net Income 60,047 37,460 34,447 /3/84,445 70,122 Selected balance sheet data: Total Assets 1,253,274 1,052,123 1,052,141 1,058,901 1,628,249 Working Capital 229,411 86,931 77,963 74,433 265,550 Investment in Marketable Securities and Fixed Term Bank Deposits 78,822 Property, Plant & Equipment (net) 325,641 325,837 311,168 311,872 539,631 Long-term Debt 268,052 70,257 79,611 93,510 141,067 Share Capital & Capital Surplus 215,317 215,316 215,316 215,316 215,860 Shareholders' Equity 614,230 650,950 634,472 603,200 572,929 Per Share Data: Shares Outstanding at End of Year 3,968,295 3,918,710 3,918,710 3,890,561 3,854,571 Net Income per NIS 1 Par value: Primary 1,494 947 873 2,137 1,794 Fully Diluted 1,494 947 873 2,137 1,794 Dividend per share /4/25.12 /4/5.30 /4/- 13.79 69.49 ---------- /1/ The financial statements of the Company are presented in New Israeli Shekels adjusted to reflect the changes in the purchasing power of Israeli currency (i.e., adjusted shekels). These adjustments were determined on the basis of the changes in the U.S. Dollar/Israel Shekel exchange rate (see page 5 and see Note 1 to Consolidated Financial Statements). /2/ See above explanation of changes in the consolidated statements, resulting in the de-consolidation of NHP (as of January 1, 2000) and of Hogla-Kimberly (as of March 31, 2000). /3/ The net income includes a material non-reoccurring gain in the year 2000, in the sum of NIS 20,087 thousands, originated from the changes in holdings described above. /4/ Dividend for 2001, in the sum of NIS 5.30 per share ($1.21 per share) was declared in March 2002 and paid in April 2002. Dividend for 2002, in the sum of NIS 6.31 per share ($1.44 per share) was declared in March 2003 and paid in April 2003. Dividend paid in 2003 includes a special dividend for 2003 in the sum of NIS 18.81 per share ($4.29 per share ). 3 According to U.S. GAAP (In Thousands of re-measured NIS except per share amounts) Year ended December 31 --------------------------------------------------------- Income Statement and balance sheet data: 2003 2002 2001 *2000 *1999 --------------------------------------- --------- --------- --------- --------- --------- Sales 481,491 492,990 451,152 705,884 1,567,871 Operating Income 53,688 53,751 25,723 61,189 150,374 Share in profits of associated companies, net 20,972 27,464 22,993 37,967 4,040 Net Income /1/38,469 54,624 49,876 /1/79,853 61,750 Total Assets 1,189,215 1,026,083 966,747 926,362 1,419,187 Working Capital 225,788 85,803 78,111 65,272 232,546 Investment in Marketable Securities and Fixed Term Bank Deposits 72,738 Property, Plant & Equipment (net) 283,831 279,077 245,949 243,656 418,051 Long-term Debt 268,052 76,001 80,284 86,292 133,787 Shareholders' Equity 550,354 602,675 569,920 512,988 478,731 Per Share Data: (re-measured NIS) Shares Outstanding at End of Year 3,968,295 3,918,710 3,918,710 3,890,561 3,854,571 Net Income Per Share Basic 9.77 13.94 12.75 20.52 16.02 Diluted 9.69 13.81 12.66 20.16 15.63 Dividend per share /2/25.55 /2/5.77 /2/- 12.84 64.82 ---------- For further information about the effect of application of U.S. GAAP, see Item 18. * See above explanation of changes in the consolidated statements, resulting in the de-consolidation of NHP (as of January 1, 2000) and of Hogla-Kimberly (as of March 31, 2000) and their becoming associated companies. /1/ The net income includes a material non-reoccurring loss in the year 2003, in the sum of NIS 16,986 thousands, representing other than temporary impairment of an investment in an associated company. A material non-reoccurring gain was included in the year 2000, in the sum of NIS 18,500 thousands, originated from the changes in holdings described above. /2/ Dividend for 2001, in the sum of NIS 5.77 per share ($1.21 per share) was declared in March 2002 and paid in April 2002. Dividend for 2002, in the sum of NIS 6.61 per share ($1.44 per share) was declared in March 2003 and paid in April 2003. Dividend paid in 2003 includes a special dividend for 2003 in the sum of NIS 19.04 per share ($4.29 per share). 4 Exchange Rates The exchange rate between the NIS and U.S. dollar published by the Bank of Israel was NIS 4.555 to the dollar on May 31, 2004. The high and low exchange rates between the NIS and the U.S. dollar during the six months of December 2003 through May 2004, as published by the Bank of Israel, were as follows: Month High Low ----- ---- --- 1 U.S. dollar = 1 U.S. dollar = December 2003 4.352 NIS 4.441 NIS January 2004 4.371 NIS 4.483 NIS February 2004 4.437 NIS 4.493 NIS March 2004 4.483 NIS 4.535 NIS April 2004 4.599 NIS 4.515 NIS May 2004 4.634 NIS 4.555 NIS The average exchange rate between the NIS and U.S. dollar, using the average of the exchange rates on the last day of each month during the period, for each of the five most recent fiscal years was as follows: Period Exchange Rate ------ ------------- January 1, 1999 - December 31, 1999 4.154 NIS/$1 January 1, 2000 - December 31, 2000 4.067 NIS/$1 January 1, 2001 - December 31, 2001 4.219 NIS/$1 January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2002 4.736 NIS/$1 January 1, 2003 - December 31, 2003 4.512 NIS/$1 Forward Looking Statements This Annual Report on Form 20-F contains "forward-looking" statements, within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act") (collectively, the "Safe Harbor Provisions"). These are statements that are not historical facts and include statements about our beliefs and expectations. These statements contain potential risks and uncertainties and actual results may differ significantly. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by the words "believe", "expect", "intend", "estimate" and similar 5 expressions. Such statements appear in this Annual Report and include statements regarding the intent, belief or current expectation of the Company or its directors or officers. Actual results may differ materially from those projected, expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors including, without limitation, the factors set forth below under the caption "Risk Factors" (we refer to these factors as "Cautionary Statements"). Any forward-looking statements contained in this Annual Report speak only as of the date hereof, and we caution potential investors not to place undue reliance on such statements. We undertake no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are expressly qualified in their entirety by the Cautionary Statements. B. Capitalization and indebtedness Not applicable. C. Reason for the offer and use of proceeds Not applicable. D. Risk factors Risks relating to the Company's Operations in Israel Security, economic and political conditions in Israel may affect the results of the Company's operations. The Company is incorporated under Israeli law and our principal offices are located in Israel. Political, economic and security conditions in Israel directly affect our operations. Since the establishment of the State of Israel in 1948, various armed conflicts have taken place between Israel and its Arab neighbors and a state of hostility, varying in degree and intensity, has led to security and economic problems for Israel. Israel signed a peace treaty with Egypt in 1979 and a peace treaty with Jordan in 1994. As of the date of this annual report, Israel has not entered into any peace agreement with Syria or Lebanon. Since 1993 several agreements have been signed between Israel and the Palestinians, but a final agreement has not been achieved. Since October 2000, there has been a marked increase in hostilities between Israel and the Palestinians, which have adversely affected the peace process, placed the Israeli economy under significant stress, and have negatively influenced Israel's relationship with several Arab countries. Competition Most of the Group's products are exposed to competition with local and imported products. The said competition might have influence over the selling prices and the Group's market share in its different fields of operations, especially in times of recession. Raw materials prices The Group is exposed to changes in raw materials prices, especially from imports (mainly pulp and fluff). Because of the small size of the Israeli market and the influence of the competing imports over selling prices, an increase in raw materials prices might erode the Group's gross margin and by that to decrease the Group's profitability. Dependency on energy prices 6 The Group's operations are highly dependent on energy consumption and thereby are highly effected by fuel prices. The Group's profit may be adversely effected in case of high increase in fuel prices. Inflation A high inflation rate can, in the long run affect the Group's wage expenses, since these expenses might be influenced by the changes in the Inflation rate. An income tax reform in Israel may affect the Company's shareholders and the Company Effective as of January 2003, the Israeli Parliament has enacted a wide ranging reform of the Israeli income tax system. These tax reforms have resulted in significant changes to the Israeli tax system. (See Note 7e to the financial statements attached- Reform of the Israeli tax system). Risks relating to our operations in Turkey The company is subject to various risks related to the operations in Turkey, where Hogla-Kimberly operates through its subsidiary, Ovisan, resulting from the economic instability in Turkey, and the high inflation rates. This economic instability may effect the purchasing power in Turkey and together with the volatility of the Turkish currency that may continue, might have a material adverse effect on the operations of Ovisan. For further information, see "Item 11 - Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk". ITEM 4 - INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY A. History and Development of the Company The Company was incorporated in 1951 under the laws of the State of Israel, and, together with its subsidiaries and associated companies (which together with the Company are referred to as the "Group") is Israel's major manufacturer of paper and paper products. The Company's principal executive offices are located at 1 Meizer St., Industrial Zone, P.O. Box 142, Hadera, Israel, Tel: (972-4) 634-9349, fax: (972-4) 633-9740. The need to meet future challenges caused the Company to reorganize its operations into separate business units. Effective as of December 31, 1995, the Company's machines used in the manufacture of packaging and printing and writing paper were transferred to a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company, and the Company's machines used in the manufacturing of printing and writing papers were sold in 2000 to NHP. The Company's machines used in the manufacture of household papers were sold to Hogla-Kimberly. The organizational structure of the Company and certain subsidiaries thereof was changed as of January 1, 1999. This change was intended to result in an operational separation between various activities, especially in the paper and board divisions, to allow for better business focus, greater operating efficiency and the formulation of business strategies that facilitate the establishment of additional international strategic alliances. Within the framework of the organizational changes, different fields of operations were defined and separated, including printing and writing paper and packaging paper. For each of them a separate 7 management was assigned. Over the last few years, the Group has created several new joint ventures as follows: 1. In July 1992, the Group purchased 25% of the shares of Carmel Container Systems Ltd. ("Carmel"), a leading Israeli designer, manufacturer and marketer of containers, packaging materials and related products. As of May 31, 2004, the Group held 26.5% of the shares of Carmel. Other major shareholders in this company are Rand Whitney Inc. (35.46%) and Ampal Ltd. (21.75%). 2. In 1996, KC acquired, 49.9% of the shares of Hogla, a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company and a leading Israeli consumer products company, which was then renamed Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. The partnership was intended to expand the local production base in Israel, in order to serve both local and regional demand, and to offer Hogla-Kimberly access to international markets. In 1999, Hogla-Kimberly purchased Ovisan, a Turkish manufacturer and marketer of diapers and paper products. In January 2000, AIPM and KC entered into an agreement pursuant to which AIPM granted KC an option to acquire from AIPM an additional 0.2% of the Hogla-Kimberly equity. On March 31, 2000, KC exercised the option thereby increasing its holdings in Hogla-Kimberly to 50.1%. 3. In February 2000, effective January 1, 2000, AIPM entered into a joint venture agreement with NAG, pursuant to which NAG acquired 50.1% of AIPM's printing and writing paper operations. The printing and writing paper operation was separated from AIPM upon the completion of this transaction and was sold to NHP, a subsidiary that was established for this purpose. In return for the acquisition of 50.1% of the shares of the new company, NAG paid to NHP $10 million in cash and lent to NHP $10 million. NAG is a member of Mondi Europe, a group of companies with many years of experience in the paper industry, wide global deployment and annual production capacity in excess of 5 million tons of various grades of paper and pulp. The establishment of the joint venture is expected to result in a doubling of the paper production capacity in Israel within the coming years, while relying on the NAG marketing network for the export of 50,000 to 80,000 tons of printing and writing paper annually. 4. Amnir Recycling Industries Ltd. (a wholly owned subsidiary of AIPM) acquired in 1997 and 1998 20% and 10%, respectively, of Cycle-Tec Recycling Technologies Ltd. (Cycle-Tec), a research and development company which develops a process for manufacturing of a high strength / low cost composite material, based on recycled post consumer plastic and paper treated with special chemical additives, for a total of $150,000. In 1999, Amnir acquired additional shares of Cycle-Tec for $80,000. In March 2000 and in July 2001, Amnir acquired additional shares of Cycle-Tec for $93,243 and $100,000, respectively. As of May 31, 2004, Amnir owned 30.18% of Cycle-Tec. 5. In July 1998, the Company signed an agreement with a strategic partner, Compagnie Generale d'Entreprises Automobiles (CGEA), for the sale of 51% of the operations of Amnir Industries and Environmental Services Ltd. (Amnir Environment) in the field of solid waste management (waste disposal and management of transfer stations and landfills) for a purchase price of $7.8 million. . CGEA is an international French company which is part of the Veolia group and one of the world's leading companies in the field of environmental services. The agreement does not apply to Amnir's operations in collecting and recycling paper and plastic. 6. In March 2000, AIPM and CGEA, on the one hand, and Tamam Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. (T.M.M) and its controlling shareholders, on the other hand, entered into an agreement 8 pursuant to which AIPM and CGEA acquired through a joint company from T.M.M.'s controlling shareholders 62.5% of the share capital of T.M.M., a leading Israeli company in the solid waste management field, for $15.85 million. Simultaneously therewith, 100% of Amnir Environment's shares were transferred to T.M.M. in return for an allocation of 35.3% of the shares of T.M.M to the shareholders of Amnir Environment. Following such transaction, AIPM and CGEA owned together, 75.74% of the shares of T.M.M. In August and September 2000, T.M.M. acquired approximately 3% of its own share capital. In December 2001, and in August 2003 AIPM and CGEA acquired additional shares of T.M.M.'s share capital through a joint company (Barthelemi Holdings Ltd.), resulting in an increase in the ownership of shares of T.M.M. by AIPM and CGEA to 88.02% as of May 31, 2004. 9 Capital Expenditures and Divestitures 2003: The investments in fixed assets of the Company totaled about NIS 29.2 million in 2003 (about $6.7 million). These investments included: - Investments of approximately NIS 2.6 million ($0.6 million) in environmental issues, mainly in the process of purification of waste from water. - An investment of approximately NIS 2.6 million ($0.6 million) in the expansion of the output of the packaging paper machine. - Investments totaling NIS 24 million ($5.5 million) in buildings, equipment, transportation and IT. 2002: The investments in fixed assets totaled about NIS 46.8 million (about $10.7 million). These investments included: - The payment of approximately NIS 26.8 million ($6.1 million) in connection with the extension of the lease for the Shafir Compound, from the Tel Aviv Municipality, for an additional period ending during 2059. - The completion of the investment in the anaerobic installation in Hadera, Israel as part of the Group's environmental operations. The additional investment in 2002 totaled NIS 3.5 million ($0.8 million). - Investments totaling NIS 16.6 million ($3.8 million) in the renovation of manufacturing and transport equipment. 2001: 2001: The investments in fixed assets in 2001 totaled about NIS 30.0 million (about $6.9 million). These investments included: - An initial investment of NIS 4.0 million ($0.9 million) in an anaerobic plant in Hadera, Israel as part of the Group's environmental operations. - Investments totaling NIS 26.1 million ($6.0 million) in the renovation of equipment and transportation. B. Business Overview I. The Group's Operations and Principal Activities The Group, through its subsidiaries and main affiliated companies, produces and markets a wide variety of paper types such as coated and uncoated printing and writing paper, packaging and wrapping paper, tissue paper for personal care and household use and various grades of board. The Group is also engaged in the conversion of household paper products into consumer products such as bathroom tissue and paper towels, napkins and facial tissue; the production and marketing of disposable baby diapers, adult incontinence, absorbent products and feminine hygiene products; the production and marketing of paperboard for the packaging industry; the production and marketing of corrugated boxes; and the marketing of office supplies. 10 The collection and recycling of a variety of waste materials is also a major Group activity, with waste paper used in the production of paper and board. In addition, the Group is engaged in plastics and solid waste recycling for industrial and agricultural applications. In 1989, the Company was declared a monopoly in the field of paper production and marketing in reels and sheets by Israel's Authority for Restricted Trade Practices, but this declaration was partially revoked in 1998 with respect to printing and writing paper. Until January 2001, some of the Group's products, such as printing and writing paper (in reels and sheets) were under price control. In January 2001, these restrictions were cancelled. The principal products produced and/or marketed by the Company and its subsidiaries and associated companies are as follows: o Grades of Paper and Board Printing and writing paper, publication papers in reels, coated paper, carbonless paper, recycled paper, cut-size paper for copy laser and inkjet, copy-book paper, paper for continuous forms, paper for envelopes and direct mailing and various grades of packaging paper and board. o Packaging Products Folding cartons, Corrugated containers and pallets and Solid board containers. o Household Products Bathroom tissue, kitchen towels, facial tissue, , napkins, tablecloths, sanitary towels, panty shields, tampons, disposable baby diapers, training pants, baby wipes, disposable adult diapers, incontinence pads, cups and plates. o Industrial, Hospital and Food Service Products Toilet paper, towel rolls, C-fold towels, napkins, place mats, coasters, bed sheets, wadding, paper toilet seat covers, disposable bed-pans and urinals, sterilizing paper, bathroom tissue and paper towel dispensers, dispensers for liquid hand soaps and room deodorizing dispensers for washrooms and cleaners, detergents and cleaning complimentary products. o Other Products Aluminum food wraps, cling-film wraps, garbage bags, air purifiers for lavatories, oven baking and cooking trays, office supplies, recycled ground and palletized plastics used by the plastic products industry, compost for soil conditioning and fertilizers for agriculture and landscape planting. Sales and Marketing The Group's paper grades are sold to publishers, major printers, converters, and wholesalers some of which are part of the Group, and independent and other direct customers. The Group's household products are marketed mainly through retail marketing chains, stores and the institutional market. The Group's main marketing strategy has the following objectives: 11 (a) Maintaining its existing dominant share in the Israeli market of paper grades and paper products produced by the Group and imported by it through short delivery time and prompt service, while constantly improving the quality of its products. (b) Increasing cut-size paper exports of NHP significantly, through the marketing network of NAG in Europe and worldwide. (c) Meeting the growing and changing requirements of the market by adding new paper grades and improving the quality of existing grades to meet the technological changes required by new printing equipment. (d) Exploring new business opportunities and increasing the range of its products. The following table sets forth the consolidated sales in adjusted NIS millions(**) by categories of the consolidated segments of operations: ** The financial statements of the Company are presented in NIS adjusted to reflect the changes in the purchasing power of Israeli currency (i.e., adjusted NIS). These adjustments were determined on the basis of the changes in the U.S. Dollar/NIS exchange rate (see Item 3 - "Key Information - Selected Financial Data" and Note 1 to the Company's Consolidated Financial Statements). Paper Manufacturing Marketing Office Total and recycling /1/ Supplies /2/ ---------------------------------- -------------------------------- ----------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- 332.1 314.6 316.4 133.0 141.1 153.3 465.1 455.8 469.7 ===== ===== ===== ===== ===== ===== ===== ===== ===== The above mentioned segments include the following activities: 1. Paper manufacturing and recycling - collecting and recycling of paper waste; manufacturing and marketing paper, mainly packaging paper, which rely mainly on paper waste as raw materials. 2. Marketing office supplies - Marketing of office supplies and paper, mainly to institutions. Raw Materials The raw materials required for paper and board production are different wood pulps, secondary fibers (i.e., waste paper) and various chemicals and fillers. Pulp is imported primarily from major suppliers in Scandinavia, the United States, Portugal, Austria, Germany, Brazil and South Africa on a regular basis. The bulk of the pulp tonnage purchased is secured by revolving long-term agreements renewed on a yearly basis. Most of the waste paper and the fillers are acquired from Israeli sources. About 65% of the fibers required in paper production of the Group (including printing and writing paper and household products) come from waste paper, which in some paper grades, is used in lieu of relatively more expensive pulp. Since 1996, the Company has been using precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC), a special pigment used for filling and coating paper in order to improve quality. The PCC is manufactured in a plant constructed and operated by Specialty Minerals Israel Ltd. (SMI), which is a wholly owned subsidiary of Minerals Technologies Inc., a U.S. company. 12 The cost of paper production is affected by fluctuating raw material prices and the cost of water and energy. Competition Most of the Group's products that are sold on the local market are exposed to competition with local and imported products. The imported products arrive in Israel exempt from import tariffs, especially from the EEC, EFTA and the USA. The tariffs on imports of paper from other countries are in the range of 0% -12%. The said competition has influence over the selling prices that the Group can charge. The main competitors of the Group in the different fields of operation are Israeli companies which sells mainly imported products, except for sales of baby diapers and hygienic products in which the Group's main competitor is Proctor & Gamble. C. Organizational Structure Clal Industries and Investment Ltd. (Clal) owns 32.54% of the Company. Discount Investment Corporation Ltd. (DIC) owns 18.39% of the Company. Clal and DIC agreed to coordinate and pool their voting power in the Company. IDB Development Corporation Ltd. owns 64.7% of DIC and 63.6% of Clal. Significant subsidiaries and associated companies Name of the Company Ownership and Country of ------------------- Voting Incorporation ------ ------------- Subsidiaries Amnir Recycling Industries Ltd. 100.00% Israel Graffiti Office Supplies & Paper Marketing Ltd. 100.00% Israel Attar Marketing Office Supplies Ltd. 100.00% Israel American Israeli Paper Mills Paper Industry (1995) Ltd. 100.00% Israel Associated Companies Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. 49.90% Israel Hogla-Kimberly Marketing Ltd. 49.90% Israel Shikma Ltd. 49.90% Israel Ovisan Sihhi Bez Sanai Ve Ticavet A.S 49.90% Turkey Hogla-Kimberly Holdings A.S 49.90% Turkey Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. 49.90% Israel Neusiedler Hadera Paper Marketing (1999) Ltd. 49.90% Israel Grafinir Paper Marketing Ltd. 49.90% Israel 13 Name of the Company Ownership and Country of ------------------- Voting Incorporation ------ ------------- Mitrani Paper Marketing 2000 (1998) Ltd. 49.90% Israel Yavnir (1999) Ltd. 49.90% Israel Barthelemi Holdings Ltd. 33.91% Israel T.M.M. Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. (direct and indirect) 41.60% Israel Carmel Containers Systems Ltd. 26.25% Israel C.D. Packaging Systems Limited (direct and indirect) 63.20%* Israel D. Property, Plants and Equipment The Group's principal executive offices and manufacturing and warehouse facilities are located on approximately 69 acres of land in Hadera, Israel, which is 31 miles south of Haifa, a major seaport, and 28 miles north of Tel Aviv. The Company owns 51 acres, and 18 acres are leased from the Israel Land Administration, an agency of the State of Israel, under several leases. The lease periods terminate during future years until 2050. The Group's facilities in Hadera are housed in two-story plants and several adjoining buildings. Approximately 1,200,000 square feet are utilized for manufacturing, storage and sales and administrative offices. An additional plant is located in renovated modern buildings on a 10 acre plot in Afula, a city in northern Israel. The Molett plant is located in Nahariya, in northern Israel, on approximately 6 acres. In September 2002, the Group signed an agreement with the Tel Aviv Municipality for the extension of the lease period of the real estate lease for a plant in Tel Aviv, that was shut down at the end of 2002, until the year 2059, in return for the payment of $6.2 million by the Group. The Group is investigating several options for using the land. The Group also owns a warehouse containing 50,000 square feet situated on three acres in the Tel Aviv area, and a two acre parcel in the industrial zone of Bnei Brak, near Tel-Aviv, which is used for waste paper collection. Hogla-Kimberly headquarters and logistic center which are rented under a long term lease agreement are located in a new modern site in Zrifin, near Tel-Aviv, covering an area of 430,550 square feet., with 188,370 square feet of buildings. The Group sold at the end of 2002 the land and buildings it owned in the city of Ashdod, in southern Israel, and at the beginning of 2003 the Group sold 8 of 10 apartments it owned in Hadera. The Group rents plant and office facilities in Migdal Haemek and Caesarea and additional warehouses and waste paper collection sites throughout Israel. The machinery, equipment and assets of the Company are free of any mortgage, lien, pledge or ---------- * The holding in voting shares is 63.05% 14 other charge or security interest. The Group owns six paper machines that are used in the manufacture of various grades of paper and board. Most of the paper production facilities of the Company and its subsidiaries are located in Hadera where it operates five machines with a combined production capacity of over 310,000 tons per year. The Group owns another machine in Nahariya which produces tissue paper with production capacity of 20,000 tons per year. The Group also operates converting lines for personal care and household paper products in Hadera and Nahariya. The Group maintains facilities for collecting, sorting and baling waste paper and board in various locations in Israel and a plant for the recycling of urban waste in Afula. It also has a plant in Afula for the production of disposable baby diapers, incontinence absorbent products and feminine hygiene products, a plant in Migdal Haemek for the production of paperboard consumer packages and a plant in Hadera for recycling plastic waste. The Group also operates, through an associated company, a second plant for handling and recycling urban waste in Petah Tikva, near Tel-Aviv and several landfills. The Company established in 2000 a new co-generation power plant, based on high-pressure steam available from steam drying employed in paper production, for a total investment of $14 million. The operation of the power plant, situated in Hadera, concluded two years of work, and the Group now enjoys an independent power generation capacity of 18MW, with generation costs considerably lower than the cost of electricity purchased from the Israel Electricity Company. As part of this project, the infrastructure of the main electricity supply system was renovated and improved, utilizing modern technological innovations. Environmental Regulation Matters Certain of the Group's manufacturing operations are subject to environmental and pollution control laws in Israel. In order to comply with these laws, the Group planned and acquired, during 2001, a new modern facility for the treatment of effluent using an anaerobic treatment process. This process was installed in the Group's site in Hadera as a pre-treatment phase in the existing system based on aerobic treatment, in order to improve the treated effluent quality in compliance with environmental regulations. In 2003 the Group recorded a significant improvement in sewage waste quality, following the conclusion of the running-in and the optimization of its anaerobic process facility and a significant reduce in sewage quantity. The Company is investing money and efforts in environmental projects, while placing emphasis on separating industrial effluent streams by type and curtailing their volume. This effort includes educating the employees on environmental matters. The Group's achievements in the environmental protection during the last few years were acknowledged at the end of 2002, when the paper mills at the Hadera site won the Shield for Environmental Excellence in Industry Award granted by the Israeli Ministry of the Environment. In 2003 all plants at the main Hadera site passed successfully various environmental inspections. ITEM 5 - OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates 15 The Company's discussion and analysis of the financial condition and operations are based upon the Company's consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in Israel (for information as to the reconciliation between U.S. and Israeli GAAP, see Item 18). The preparation of these financial statements requires the Company to make estimates and judgments that affect the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses, and related disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities. The Company identified the most critical accounting principles upon which its financial status depends. The Company determined the critical principles by considering accounting policies that involve subjective decisions or assessments. The Company states its accounting policies in the notes to the consolidated financial statements and at relevant sections in this discussion and analysis. This discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the Company's consolidated financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this report. The Company identified the following to be the most critical accounting policies: Inventories The inventory is valued at the lower of cost or market, where cost is determined on the moving average basis. The Company writes down its inventory for estimated obsolescence or unmarketable inventory based on analysis of inventory aging, assumptions about future demand and market conditions. If actual demand and/or market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required. Allowance for doubtful accounts The Company maintains allowances for doubtful accounts for estimated losses resulting from the inability of its customers to make required payments. The Company provides an allowance for doubtful accounts as a percentage of all specific debts doubtful of collection. The allowances are based on the likelihood of recoverability of accounts receivable considering the aging of the balances, our historical write-off experience, net of recoveries, change in credit worthiness of the customers, and taking into account current collection trends that are expected to continue. These estimated allowances are periodically reviewed, analyzing the customers' payment history. Actual customer collections could differ from the Company's estimates. Contingencies and risks involving the business The Company is subject, from time to time, to various claims arising in the ordinary course of operations. In determining whether liabilities should be recorded for pending litigation claims, the Company assesses, based on advice of its outside legal counsel, the allegations made and the likelihood that it will successfully defend itself. When the Company believes that it is probable that it will not prevail in a particular matter, it then estimates the amount of the liability. The evaluation of the probability of success of such claims and the determination of whether there is a necessity to include provisions in respect thereof require judgment by the Company's legal counsel and management. 16 Deferred income taxes Deferred taxes are determined utilizing the asset and liability method, based on the differences between the amounts presented in the financial statements and those taken into account for tax purposes, in accordance with the related tax laws. Valuation allowances are included in respect of deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that such assets will not adibe realized. The Company has considered future taxable income and tax planning strategies in assessing the need for the valuation allowance. Management evaluates the realizability of the deferred tax assets on a current basis. If it were determined that the Company would be able to realize the deferred tax assets in excess of its net recorded amount, an adjustment to deferred tax assets would increase income. Impairment in value of Long-Lived Assets (including fixed assets and investments in associated companies) In February 2003, Accounting Standard No. 15 of the Israeli Accounting Standard Board (hereafter - IASB) - "Impairment of Assets", became effective. According to this standard the company performs a periodic review to evaluate the need for a provision for the impairment its non-monetary assets - mainly fixed assets as well as investments in associated companies. Accordingly, at each balance sheet date, the company assesses whether any events have occurred or changes in circumstances have taken place, which might indicate that there has been an impairment of one or more of the above assets. When such indicators of impairment are present, the Company evaluates whether the carrying value of the asset in the Company's accounts can be recovered from the cash flows anticipated from that asset. The recoverable value of an asset is determined according to the higher of the net selling price of the asset or its value in use to the Company. The value in use is determined according to the present value of anticipated cash flows from the continued use of the asset, including those expected at the time of its future retirement and disposal. When it is not possible to assess whether an impairment provision is required for a particular asset on its own, the need for such a provision is assessed in relation to the recoverable value of the cash generating unit to which that asset belongs. Through December 31, 2002, the Company applied the provisions for assessing and recording impairment of assets, prescribed by the U.S. standard, FAS 121. Recently issued pronouncement - "Discontinuance of Adjusting Financial Statements for Inflation" In October 2001, the IASB issued Israel Accounting Standard No. 12 - "Discontinuance of Adjusting Financial Statements for Inflation", which provided for the discontinuance of adjusting financial statements for the effects of inflation, as of January 1, 2003. In December 2002, Accounting Standard No. 17 was issued that postponed the date from which Accounting Standard No. 12 is to be applied until January 1, 2004. Since the Company's financial statements are drawn up in NIS adjusted for the changes in the dollar (as allowed by section 29(b) of Opinion 36 of the Israeli Institute), and based on the provisions in paragraph 4 to Israeli Accounting Standard No. 13, with effect from January 1, 2004, the Company will no longer be able to measure its operations in dollars, and will have to resume measuring its operations in NIS. The inflation-adjusted NIS amounts as of December 31, 2003, as presented in these financial statements, will be the base for the nominal-historical financial reporting following January 1, 2004. 17 The implementation of Standard No. 12 will mainly affect the financial income and expenses items. A. Operating Results The following is a summary of the period-to-period changes in the principal items included in the Consolidated Statements of Income: Amount and Percentage Increase (Decrease) New Israeli Shekels (in thousands)/1/ Year ended 12/31/03 Year ended 12/31/02 v. v. year ended 12/31/02 year ended 12/31/01 ---------------------- ------------------------- Changes % Changes % NIS NIS ------- ------- ------- ------- Net sales 9,317 2.0 (13,934) (3.0) Cost of sales (1,586) (0.4) (20,053) (5.2) ------- ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 10,903 11.9 6,119 7.1 Selling, administrative and general expenses 774 1.4 (9,809) (15.0) ------- ------- ------- ------- Income from ordinary operations 10,129 27.8 15,928 77.6 Financial income (expenses) - net (13,001) 435.3 (8,090) (158.5) Other income (loss) 4,551 (4,037) ------- ------- Income before taxes on income 1,679 5.5 3,801 14.2 Taxes on income 2,086 21.3 (2,504) (34.4) ------- ------- ------- ------- Income from operation of the Company and the consolidated subsidiaries 3,765 18.2 1,297 6.7 Share in profits of associated companies 18,822 112.5 1,716 11.4 ------- ------- ------- ------- Net income 22,587 60.3 3,013 8.0 ======= ======= ======= ======= The statements of income for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001 are presented in adjusted New Israeli Shekels as explained in Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements. The changes in purchasing power of New Israeli Shekels were determined on the basis of changes in the U.S. dollar/New Israeli Shekel exchange rate. All figures in the adjusted statements of income are expressed in terms of December 31, 2003 shekels (1 U.S. $= NIS 4.379). The number of New Israeli Shekels which were exchangeable for 1 U.S. dollar increased (decreased) over the prior year by 9.3%, 7.3% and (7.6%) in 2001, 2002 and 2003, respectively. ---------- /1/ The financial statements of the Company are presented in New Israeli Shekels adjusted to reflect the changes in the purchasing power of Israeli currency (i.e., adjusted shekels). These adjustments were determined on the basis of the changes in the U.S. Dollar/Israel Shekel exchange rate (see page 5 and see Note 1 to Consolidated Financial Statements). 18 The adjusted NIS figures have been translated into U.S. dollars using the representative exchange rate of the U.S. dollar on December 31, 2003 ($1 = NIS 4.379). The translated U.S. dollar figures should not be construed as a representation that the Israeli currency amounts actually represent, or could be converted into U.S. dollars. See Note 1 to the financial statements attached and Item 18 for anticipated effect of adoption of accounting pronouncements that have been issued but are not yet required to be adopted. 2003 compared to 2002 I. Overview of Results of Operations 1. Consolidated Data Sales in 2003 totaled NIS 465.1 million, as compared with NIS 455.8 million in 2002 ($106.2 million as compared with $104.1 million). The operating profit in 2003 amounted to NIS 46.6 million, as compared with NIS 36.5 million in 2002 ($10.6 million, as compared with $8.3 million). The financial expenses in 2003 amounted to NIS 16.0 million, as compared with NIS 3.0 million in 2002 ($3.7 million, as compared with $0.7 million). The increased financial expenses are primarily attributed to the impact of the revaluation on the net monetary balances (see analysis below - Chapter III, Section 5). 2. Net Income and Earnings Per Share Net profit in 2003 amounted to NIS 60.0 million, as compared with NIS 37.5 million in 2002 ($13.7 million, as compared with $8.6 million). Net profit in 2003 includes NIS 1.0 million ($0.2 million) in net capital gains, resulting from the sale of apartments that were owned by the Company and that served Company employees in the past, coupled with a NIS 1.6 million ($0.4 million) tax benefit, on account of the exercise of employee option warrants. The net profit in 2002 included approximately NIS 0.4 million ($0.1 million) in non-recurring income, net, from the realization of assets and from taxes on account of preceding years. The Earnings Per Share in 2003 amounted to NIS 1,494 per NIS 1 par value ($3.41 per share), as compared with NIS 947 per NIS 1 par value ($2.16 per share) in 2002. The return on shareholders' equity amounted to 9.2% in 2003, as compared with 5.9% in 2002. II. The Business Environment The severe recession that has been plaguing the Israeli economy over the past several years, as part of the global economic crisis, has been accompanied by security events and terrorist attacks and has resulted in negative growth of the Israeli economy during this period, along with a considerable rise in unemployment, lower domestic demand (due to the lower purchasing power of the public and due to the significant decrease in incoming tourism), coupled with a significant escalation in competition in all sectors. 19 The said global economic crisis - especially in Europe - has also affected the paper industry and resulted in a supply surplus and consequently in continuing the importing of low-priced paper into Israel. These imports have led to increased competition, especially in fine paper, accompanied by a decrease in selling prices. As a result of the rise in pulp prices during the same period, the margin between selling prices and pulp prices has decreased as well. Pulp prices rose by an average of approximately 10% in 2003, as compared with 2002. These prices are estimated to continue to rise moderately in the first half of 2004. Despite the difficult business environment, the Group has managed to maintain its operations at full capacity throughout this period, while expanding its operations in overseas markets. Signs of a recovery in the Israeli economy began appearing toward the end of 2003, as reflected by low, albeit positive growth (although no growth was recorded in 2003 in per capita terms), coupled with a certain positive change in the business atmosphere in the economy. The exchange rate of the NIS compared to the U.S. dollar was revaluated by 7.6% in 2003, as compared with a devaluation of 7.3% in 2002. Inflation was negative in 2003, at -1.9%, as compared with an inflation rate of 6.5% in 2002. The negative inflation enabled the Bank of Israel to significantly lower the interest rates, by approximately 3.7% in 2003. This has led to a lowering of the Prime rate at the commercial banks in 2003, from 10.4% to 6.7%. III. Analysis of Operations and Profitability The analysis set forth below is based on the consolidated data. 1. Sales The consolidated sales totaled NIS 465.1 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 455.8 million in 2002 ($106.2 million as compared with $104.1 million). The 2002 consolidated sales included a sum of NIS 7.9 million ($1.8 million) of sales derived from the Shafir operation that was discontinued as of September 2002. The NIS 17.2 million ($3.9 million) increase in sales - net of Shafir's sales in 2002 - originated primarily from a quantitative increase of approximately 6% in packaging paper. 2. Cost of Sales The cost of sales amounted to NIS 362.2 million in 2003 -77.9% of sales - as compared with NIS 363.8 million -79.8% of sales - in 2002 ($82.7 million, as compared with $83.1 million). The gross margin as a percentage of sales reached 22.1% in 2003, as compared with 20.2% in 2002. The improved gross margin in 2003 compared to 2002, was achieved due to the Company's ongoing improvements and increased efficiency. The said efficiency was expressed by the increased output of the machines, by less work hours per ton and a decrease in the consumption of energy per ton produced, coupled with the continued reduction of various manufacturing costs. 20 The improved gross margin was achieved despite a sharp increase in energy prices, following an average increase of approximately 21% in fuel oil prices compared to 2002 (energy expenses grew by NIS 4.8 million ($1.1 million), also on account of the transition to low-sulfur fuel oil, due to the demands of the Ministry of the Environment). Furthermore a 23% increase was recorded in water prices. Labor Wages The labor wages recorded in the cost of sales, in the selling expenses and in the general and administrative expenses, totaled NIS 137.0 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 125.5 million in 2002 ($31.3 million as compared with $28.7 million). The increase in labor expenses originated primarily from an increase in wages in dollar terms, due to the change in the average exchange rate between the two periods, coupled with the updating of wages, to prevent a decrease in real wages as a result of the rise in the CPI in 2002 (as mentioned above, the CPI rose by 6.5% in 2002). The said increase in wages was partially offset by the decrease in personnel (as a result of efficiency measures and the shutting down of Shafir). 3. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses The selling, general and administrative expenses (including wages) amounted to NIS 56.3 million in 2003 (12.1% of sales), as compared with NIS 55.5 million (12.2% of sales) in 2002 ($12.9 million as compared with $12.7 million). The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses originated primarily from an increase in NIS-denominated expenses (including wages), in dollar terms (due to the low dollar exchange rate, as compared with 2002). 4. Operating Profit The operating profit amounted to NIS 46.6 million - 10.0% of sales - in 2003, as compared with NIS 36.5 million - 8% of sales - in 2002 ($10.6 million, as compared with $8.3 million). 5. Financial Expenses The financial expenses totaled NIS 16.0 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 3.0 million in 2002 ($3.7 million as compared with $0.7 million). The Company possesses a surplus of NIS-denominated financial liabilities over financial assets (consisting primarily of notes and short-term bank credit, denominated in NIS). Consequently, whereas a devaluation serves to lower the financial expenses, a revaluation leads to an increase in the financial expenses. Elevated financial expenses were recorded by the Company in 2003, originating primarily from the dollar revaluation, whereas in 2002, the devaluation led to lower financial expenses (a difference of 15% between the current year and in 2002). It should nevertheless be stated that the cash-flow-related financial expenses in 2003 (interest expenses net of revenues) amounted to NIS 8.8 million ($2.0 million), similar to the amount paid in 2002. 21 6. Taxes on Income The expenditure for taxes on income totaled NIS 7.7 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 9.8 million in 2002 ($1.8 million as compared with $2.2 million). The principal factor behind the decrease in tax expenses in 2003, as compared with 2002, is the difference between the real-term revaluation in 2003 and the real term devaluation in 2002. This devaluation served to decrease the protection on shareholders' equity (measured for tax purposes according to the changes in the Consumer Price Index) and increased the expenditure on taxes in 2002. A high real-term revaluation was recorded in 2003, that contributed to lowering the tax expenditure. 7. Profit After Taxes and Before the Company's Share in the Earnings of Associated Companies The profit after taxes and before the Company's share in the earnings of associated companies amounted to NIS 24.5 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 20.7 million in 2002 ($5.6 million, as compared with $4.7 million). 8. Company's Share in Earnings of Associated Companies The companies whose earnings are reported under this item (according to AIPM's holdings therein), include primarily: NHP, Hogla-Kimberly, Carmel and TMM. The Company's share in the earnings of associated companies amounted to NIS 35.5 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 16.7 million in 2002 ($8.1 million, as compared with $3.8 million). The following principal changes were recorded in the Company's share in the earnings of associated companies, in relation to the preceding year: - The Company's share in the net profit of NHP grew by NIS 1.2 million ($0.3 million) as a result of the continuing improvement in operating profitability, that was attained primarily due to efficiency measures and the reorganization of operations and marketing at the division. The improved profitability was impaired by a certain decrease in operating profit in the second half of 2003, as compared with the preceding quarters of 2003 (due to the lower margins and the competition against imports), coupled with the increase in financial expenses, primarily on account of the repayment of some of the loans that were received from the shareholders when the Company was founded. - The Company's share in the net earnings of Hogla-Kimberly grew by NIS 19.0 million ($4.3 million), as a result of the improved operating profit at Hogla-Kimberly as compared with 2002. This is primarily attributed to the improved efficiency in logistics following the relocation to the central warehouse in Tzrifin and the gradual transition toward the manufacturing of HUGGIES diapers in Afula. Efficiency measures were also initiated at Ovisan (the subsidiary in Turkey) and were expressed by a significant improvement in the operating profit. The net profit also grew compared with 2002 on account of financial revenues that were recorded at Hogla-Kimberly and at Ovisan in 2003, due to the effects of the revaluation (in the NIS and in the Turkish lira, as compared with the U.S. dollar). - The Company's share in the net profit of the Carmel Group grew by NIS 2.5 million ($0.6 million) due to the transition from an operating loss in the preceding quarters, to an operating profit starting with the third quarter of 2003. This improvement is attributed to the comprehensive efficiency measures that are being initiated by Carmel. 22 - The Company's share in the net profit of TMM decreased by NIS 2.3 million ($0.5 million), as a result of higher financial expenses in 2003, as compared with 2002. This is attributed to an increase in bank credit (as a result of an increase in customer debts primarily local municipalities coupled by strategic investments in the development of the Company that were financed using bank credit) and to the real-term interest in CPI terms, that was higher in 2003 than it was in 2002. IV. Liquidity and Investments 1. Cash Flows The cash flows from operating activities amounted to NIS 52.7 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 77.2 million in 2002 ($12.0 million, as compared with $17.6 million). The decrease in the cash flows from operating activities in 2003, despite the improvement in the net profit, originated primarily from the increase in operating working capital in 2003, that is non-recurring for the most part. This increase stemmed primarily from the increase in customer debts, on the one hand, and from the decrease in the supplier debt, on the other hand (originated primarily from a change in the days of payables credit, as part of price update agreements). 2. Investments in Fixed Assets The investments in fixed assets amounted to NIS 29.2 million in 2003, as compared with NIS 46.8 million in 2002 ($6.7 million, as compared with $10.7 million). The investments in 2003 included investments in environmental issues (approximately $0.6 million), an investment in expanding the output of the packaging paper machine (approximately $0.6 million), as well as investments in equipment, transportation and IT. 3. Financial Liabilities The long-term liabilities (including current maturities) amounted to NIS 275.0 million at December 31, 2003, as compared with NIS 77.2 million at December 31, 2002 ($62.8 million as compared with $17.6 million). Most of the increase in the long-term liabilities is attributed to loans raised through notes (Series 2) from institutional entities, in the amount of NIS 200 million ($45.6 million), at December 21, 2003. Some of the proceeds from the notes were used for the repayment of short-term credit. The short-term credit balance totaled NIS 144.6 million at December 31, 2003, as compared with NIS 104.0 million at December 31, 2002 ($33.0 million, as compared with $23.8 million). The increase in 2003 in the credit balances (which reached at the maximum point about NIS 200 million) originates primarily from the dividends paid to the shareholders (totaling NIS 100 million, or $22.6 million), as well as from the repayment of long-term debts. The increase in the credit balances was partially offset by dividends and by the repayment of a loan from associated companies, coupled with part of the proceeds from the notes, as stated above. Most of the credit for financing the Company's operations is denominated in NIS. Due to the said increase in liabilities, the surplus of net financial liabilities denominated in NIS grew from NIS 104.9 million at December 31, 2002 to NIS 159.8 million at December 31, 2003 (from $24.0 million to $36.5 million). 23 2002 compared to 2001 I. Overview of Results of Operations The following are principal figures regarding the Company's operations. For a detailed analysis, see paragraph III - "Analysis of Operations and Profitability" below. 1. Consolidated Data - The Company and its subsidiaries The consolidated sales amounted to NIS 455.8 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 469.7 million in 2001 ($104.1 million, as compared with $107.3 million). The operating income in 2002 amounted to NIS 36.5 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 20.5 million in 2001 ($8.3 million, as compared with $4.7 million). The earnings before taxes and before other incomeamounted to NIS 33.5 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 25.6 million in 2001 ($7.6 million, as compared with $5.9 million). 2. Net Income and Earnings Per Share Net income (before non-recurring income) totaled NIS 37.1 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 30.6 million in 2001 ($8.5 million, as compared with $7.0 million). Net income in 2002 included non-recurring income of NIS 0.4 million ($0.1 million), net, generated by the discontinuation of operations at Shafir and Molett, from the sale of real estate in Ashdod, Israel (after deduction of the applicable taxes) and from non-recurring tax revenues (see III.9, below). Net income in 2002, including non-recurring income, totaled to NIS 37.5, as compared with NIS 34.4 million in 2001 ($8.6 million, as compared with $7.9 million). Earnings Per Share for 2002 totaled NIS 947 per NIS 1 par value ($2.16 per share), as compared with NIS 873 per NIS 1 par value ($1.99 per share) for 2001. The return on shareholders' equity, before non-recurring income, amounted to 5.8% in 2002, as compared with 5.1% in 2001. II. The Business Environment and the influence of External Factors The slowdown in Israel's economy grew more severe in 2002. The slowdown in operations, effected by the global economic situation and by the security-related events in Israel, was characterized by a decrease in domestic demand, negative GDP growth and increased unemployment. The accelerated devaluation of the NIS against the US dollar continued with fluctuation throughout the year. At its peak, the US dollar exchange rate reached a record of NIS 5 per dollar (13% devaluation since the end of 2001), and its ascent was only curbed by the raising of interest rates by the Governor of the Bank of Israel. The accelerated devaluation during 2002 resulted in an increase in the prices of imported inputs, but due to the economic situation in Israel, the reduced demand and the increased competition, it was impossible to adjust the selling prices as warranted by such devaluation. The sales turnover in dollar 24 terms was consequently eroded, despite the quantitative growth in sales in most of the Group's operations, and the profitability was impaired. In response to the foregoing economic situation, the Group initiated efficiency measures that were intended to deal with the difficult economic environment, while preserving AIPM's market shares and profitability of its various operations, despite the said erosion and while focusing on its cost base. These efficiency measures, which encompass all of the Group's different operations, included personnel cutbacks, on both management and operational levels, increased productivity and the creation of a lower cost base, resulting in a greater ability to adjust to market conditions. 2002 was a year marked by stability in global pulp prices, following a year with a sharp decline in prices. Pulp prices appeared to be rising in the first quarter of 2003 (by approximately 10%) and this trend is expected to continue in the second quarter of 2003 as well. The inflation rate in 2002 amounted to 6.5%, as compared with an inflation rate of 1.4% in 2001. The NIS declined by 7.3% against the dollar in 2002, compared with a decline of 9.3% in 2001. III. Analysis of Operations and Profitability The analysis below is based on the consolidated data. 1. Sales The consolidated sales amounted to NIS 455.8 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 469.7 million in 2001 (-3%); ($104.1 million, as compared with $107.3 million). The decrease in the sales turnover is primarily attributed to the termination of some operations in 2002 (See III.9, below). The termination of these operations resulted in a NIS 26.3 million (approximately $6 million) decrease in the consolidated sales turnover. An increase was recorded in 2002 in the volume sales of packaging paper (fluting) in the domestic market, as compared to 2001. The growth in sales as a result of such volume growth was partially offset by the decrease in local selling prices, resulting from the severe crisis impacting the packaging sector (corrugators). With the intention of running at full capacity, while preserving manufacturing efficiency, lowering the cost base, the Packaging Papers and Recycling Division expanded its production and sales in 2002, thereby lowering the average total cost per ton. The turnover of the office supplies sector declined due to lower demand stemming from the economic situation and the erosion of prices in dollar terms. 2. Cost of Sales The cost of sales amounted to NIS 363.8 million - or 79.8% of sales - in 2002, as compared with NIS 383.8 million - or 81.7% of sales - in 2001 ($83.1 million, as compared with $87.7 million). The gross profit amounted to NIS 92.0 million - or 20.2% of sales - in 2002, as compared with NIS 85.9 million - or 18.3% of sales - in 2001 ($21.0 million, as compared with $19.6 million). 25 The increase in the gross margin was due to the Group's continuing efficiency measures and the acceleration of these measures due to the economic situation in Israel. The improved efficiency was achieved, among other things, by: - Lower wage costs, primarily as a result of personnel cutbacks and the impact of the devaluation (see below). - Increased output of the packaging paper machine, thereby lowering the cost per ton. - Lower raw material utilization costs. - Reduction of various operating expenses. - Increased proportion of self-generated electricity (as opposed to purchased electricity), following improvements in the operation of the new power plant at the Hadera plant. Some of the above savings were offset as a result of a 12.3% increase in fuel oil prices, originating from the increase in fuel oil prices in 2002, coupled with the transition to the use of low-sulfur fuel oil, in accordance with the demands of the Israeli Ministry of the Environment. The increase in fuel oil prices increased the cost of self-generated electricity by approximately $1 million, compared with 2001 (not including the increase in quantity, resulting from the increase in production). Labor Wages The labor wages reflected in the cost of sales, the selling expenses and the general and administrative expenses, amounted to NIS 125.5 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 148.4 million in 2001, representing a decrease of 15.4% ($28.7 million as compared with $33.9 million). The lower labor expenses originated both from the reduction in the number of personnel as a result of the Group's efficiency measures (savings of 6.2%, excluding the shutting down of Shafir), as well as the erosion of the wages in dollar terms, due to the sharp devaluation of the NIS during 2002. 3. Selling, General and Administrative Expenses The selling, general and administrative expenses (including wages) amounted to NIS 55.5 million in 2002 (12.2% of sales), as compared with NIS 65.4 million (13.9% of sales) in 2001 ($12.7 million, as compared with $14.9 million). This decrease is primarily attributed to the lower labor expenses and to the efficiency measures implemented by AIPM, as detailed above. 4. Operating Income The operating income amounted to NIS 36.5 million in 2002 (8.0% of sales), as compared with NIS 20.5 million in 2001 (4.4% of sales) ($8.3 million, as compared with $4.7 million). 5. Financial Revenues (Expenses) 26 Financial expenses of NIS 3.0 million were recorded in 2002, as compared with financial revenues of NIS 5.1 million in 2001 ($0.7 million in expenses, as compared with revenues of $1.2 million). Most of AIPM's interest-bearing liabilities are denominated in NIS, while some are linked to the CPI . Due to the increased devaluation in 2001 (which was considerably greater than the increase in the CPI), the CPI-linked and NIS liabilities eroded, thereby creating financial revenues for 2001. In 2002, the devaluation was lower and only slightly surpassed the increase in the CPI, resulting in financial expenses. Furthermore, despite the fact that the average balance of short-term credit in 2002 was similar to that in 2001, the average interest rate on the credit was higher this year, due to the interest rate increases by the Bank of Israel. 6. Profits Before Taxes The profits before taxes and before other income/expenses amounted to NIS 33.5 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 25.6 million in 2001 ($7.6 million, as compared with $5.9 million). 7. Taxes on Income The taxes on income expenses, on account of the current operations, totaled NIS 13.1 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 11.2 million in 2001 ($3.0 million, as compared with $2.6 million). The tax expenses grew in 2002 compared to 2001, primarily due to the NIS 7.9 million increase in income before taxes ($1.8 million). The said increase was partially offset by the larger real-term devaluation last year, which resulted in the erosion of the hedging of shareholders' equity for tax purposes in 2001, calculated according to changes in the Consumer Price Index, resulting in increased tax expenses in the financial statements for 2001. 8. Company's Share in Earnings of Associated Companies The companies whose earnings are reported under this item (according to AIPM's share therein), include primarily: Hogla-Kimberly, NHP, Carmel and T.M.M. (including Amnir Environmental Services). AIPM's share in the earnings of associated companies amounted to NIS 16.7 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 15.0 million in 2001 ($3.8 million, as compared with $3.4 million, respectively). The following are the detailed changes in the earnings of associated companies in 2002 as compared to 2001: - The Company's share in NHP's earnings grew by approximately NIS 11.8 million ($2.7 million) in 2002, as compared with 2001. This growth was rendered possible by the comprehensive efficiency program implemented by NHP, which included the restructuring of operations and marketing, including a significant growth in export sales. The manufacturing efficiency and machine output at NHP grew considerably in 2002 as a result of the said measures and assisted NHP in returning to profitability, despite the adverse market conditions. - The decrease in the Company's share in Hogla-Kimberly's earnings amounted to NIS 8.8 million ($2.0 million). This decrease was attributed to an increase in competition in the non-food household 27 sector (in which Hogla-Kimberly operates) during 2002, both from international brands - primarily Procter & Gamble in the baby diapers sector - as well as from private labels of the retail marketing chains. In response to the competition, Hogla-Kimberly is implementing various marketing measures that are intended to enable it to preserve its sales volumes, although while incurring certain erosion in selling prices and operating profitability. - The decrease in the Company's share in Carmel's earnings amounted to NIS 1.3 million ($0.3 million). This decrease was attributed to the continuing crisis, expressed by lower demand for packaging, due to the declining volumes of operation in industry and agriculture, which resulted in a volume decrease in demand for packaging and in lower prices. The decrease in sales adversely affected the profitability of Carmel, despite the efficiency efforts and the lower raw material costs. Carmel is continuing to implement additional efficiency measures, which are expected to result in an increased level of profitability. - The T.M.M.-Amnir operations continued to expand in 2002, while recording a constant improvement in operational efficiency and in profitability. IV. Liquidity and Investments 1. Cash Flows Cash flows from operating activities amounted to NIS 55.3 million in 2002 (excluding dividend received from an associated company), as compared with cash flows of NIS 19.3 million in 2001 ($12.6 million, as compared with $4.4 million). The improved cash flows were attributed primarily to annual differences in operating working capital. The operating working capital grew by NIS 29.4 million ($6.7 million) in 2001, as compared with a NIS 5.5 million ($1.2 million) decrease in operating working capital in 2002, originating primarily from a decrease in inventories in 2002. The cash flows from operating activities, including the said dividend, amounted to $17.6 million in 2002. 2. Investments in Fixed Assets The investments in fixed assets totaled NIS 46.8 million in 2002, as compared with NIS 30.0 million in 2001 ($10.7 million, as compared with $6.9 million). The investments in 2002 included the payment of approximately NIS 26.8 million ($6.1 million) on account of the extension of the lease on the Shafir Compound from the Tel Aviv Municipality, for an additional period, until 2059. The investments also included the completion of the investment in the anaerobic installation in Hadera, as part of the Group's environmental operations, coupled with ongoing investments in the renovation of manufacturing and transport equipment. B. Liquidity and capital resources The Company anticipates that its existing credit lines are sufficient for financing its working capital needs. The Company uses its cash flow from operating activities to finance its investments and for repayment of loans and dividend distributions to its shareholders. Based on the Company's balance sheet, the Company believes that it is unlikely that there will be any difficulties to obtain credit, whether short term debts or long-term debts, to finance anticipated investments. 28 At December 21, 2003, the Company issued notes - through tender by private placement - in the amount of NIS 200 million, to institutional investors. These notes carry an interest rate of 5.65% per annum (a margin of 1.45% above government notes with a comparable average maturity). The principal will be repaid in seven equal annual installments between the years 2007-2013 (average maturity of 6 years), with both the principal and the interest being linked to the CPI. The notes are not convertible into the Company's ordinary shares and shall not be registered for trade on a public exchange. The Company uses loans from local financial institutions, mostly banks, to finance its activities. As of December 31, 2003, these loans consisted of the following: 1. Short-term credit from banks - see Note 10d to the financial statements attached. 2. Long-term loans from banks and other liabilities - see Note 4a and 4c to the financial statements attached. 3. Notes - see Note 4b to the financial statements attached. For information regarding financial instruments used for hedging purposes and market risks - see Item 11, "Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosure about Market Risk". The Group may incur additional tax liabilities in the event of inter-company dividend distributions, derived from "approved enterprises" profits. The said dividend distribution from investee companies is in the amount of up to approximately NIS 95 million (of which the Company's share of the additional tax is NIS 16 million, if this dividend is distributed). No account was taken of the additional tax, since AIPM has the ability and the intention that such earnings are to be reinvested and that no dividend would be declared which would involve additional tax liability to the Group in the foreseeable future. C. Research and development, patents and licenses, etc. There are no significant investments in research and development activities. D. Trend information For trend information see "The Business Environment and the Influence of External Factors" above. ITEM 6 - DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES The following table sets forth certain information with respect to the directors and executive officers of the Company: NAME DIRECTOR Year of Directors: SINCE Birth POSITION ---------- ----- ----- -------- Michael Dorsman 1999 1965 Director Nochi Dankner 2003 1954 Director 29 NAME DIRECTOR Year of Directors: SINCE Birth POSITION ---------- ----- ----- -------- Avi Fischer 2004 1956 Director Aviezer (Gezi) Kaplan 2001 1948 Director Jacob Laskow 1999 1954 Director until June 8, 2003. Miri Lent-Sharir 2000 1956 Director Oren Lieder 2003 1948 Director Zvi Livnat 2003 1953 Director Isaac Manor 2003 1941 Director Amos Mar-Haim 1984 1938 Director Leon Recanati 1988 1948 Director Shmuel Rotem 1979 1926 Vice Chairman until November 1, 2003. Meir Shannie 2001 1945 Director until February 23, 2004. Avi Yehezkel 2003 1958 Director Yaacov Yerushalmi 1998 1942 Chairman of the Board since January 1999, CEO of the Company since June 1990 until April 2003. The business experience of each of the directors is as follows: Mr. Michael Dorsman is a businessman, Chairman of the Board and CEO of D.B.P.L. Public Investments Ltd. and Papaya Investments Ltd. Mr. Dorsman holds 11.4% of the Company's shares directly. Mr. Nochi Dankner is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of IDB Holdings Corporation Ltd., Chairman of IDB Development Ltd., Discount Investments Ltd. and of Clal Industries and Investments Ltd. Serves or served as Chairman and Director in public and private companies of Ganden Group, IDB Group and Bank Hapoalim. Mr. Avi Fischer is Co-CEO of Clal Industries and Investments Ltd. and Deputy CEO of IDB Holdings Corporation Ltd., director of IDB Development Ltd, Discount Investment Ltd. and several public and private companies of Ganden Group and IDB Group. Senior partner of Fischer, Behar, Chen & Co. Law Office. Mr. Aviezer (Gezi) Kaplan is the CEO and a director of Tivall (1993) Ltd., Deputy Managing Director of Osem Group, Chairman of the Boards of Sabra Salad Food Industries (1985) Ltd., Ostiv Ltd., and Of Tov Products (2001) Ltd., and a director of Beit-Hashita Assis Food Industries Limited Partnership. He serves as an external director of the Company. Ms. Miri Lent-Sharir is a businesswoman and an external director of the Company. Until November 2000, she was Assistant to the General Manager for Special Projects of Housing and Construction Holding Ltd. Until August 1998, she was the Deputy General Manager of Ampal American Israel Corporation and a director of companies in the Ampal Group. 30 Mr. Oren Liedr is Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Discount Investments Ltd. Serves as director at various companies, including publicly-traded companies. Formerly served as Chief Financial Officer of Bezeq, the Israeli Telecom Company Ltd. Mr. Zvi Livnat is Co-CEO of Clal Industries and Investments Ltd. and Deputy CEO of IDB Holdings Corporation, Vice President of Taavura Holdings Ltd., Director in IDB Development Ltd., Discount Investments Ltd., Clal Industries and Investments Ltd. and other public and private companies. Mr. Isaac Manor is a director at various publicly-traded and privately-held companies within the IDB Group, IDB Holdings Ltd., IDB Development Ltd., Discount Investment Ltd. and Clal Industries and Investments Ltd ,Israel Union Bank Ltd. and others; Chairman of companies in the David Lubinsky Group Ltd.,. Mr. Amos Mar-Haim is Chairman of the Board of Atara Investments Company Ltd., Migdal Underwriting and Investment Banking Ltd., director of Al-Rov (Israel) Ltd., the Jerusalem Development Authority, Metrix Ltd., Moria Ltd., Keter Ltd., and Yissum Research and Development Co. Ltd., and Chairman of the Association of Public Companies until 2001. Until May 1999 he was Vice Chairman of Israel Company, Chairman of Zim Israel Navigation Co., Vice Chairman of Israel Chemicals Ltd., and Vice Chairman of Oil Refineries Ltd. Mr. Leon Recanati is CEO and Chairman of Glenrock Israel Ltd., Ligum Ltd. and Gorli Ltd. Until May 2003 he was Chairman of the Board of Clal Industries and Investments Ltd., Chairman of the Board of Discount Investments Corporation Ltd., CEO (until February 2003) and Chairman of IDB Holding Corporation Ltd., and Chairman of IDB Development Ltd. Until the middle of 2000, he also acted as the Chairman of Clal (Israel) Ltd. Mr. Avi Yehezkel is an external director at Bank Yahav. He served as a Knesset member between 1992-2003, during these years alternately, he served as Deputy Minister of transportation, Chairman of the Economics Committee, Chairman of the Defense Budget Committee, Chairman of the Capital Market Sub-Committee, Chairman of the Banking Sub-Committee and member of the Finance Committee. Mr. Yaacov Yerushalmi is Chairman of the Board and was the CEO of the Company until April 2003. In addition, he is the Chairman or Vice-Chairman of subsidiaries and associated companies of the Group. Senior Management (as of May 31, 2004) Name Year of Birth Position and Business Experience for past five years ---- ------------- ---------------------------------------------------- Yaacov Yerushalmi 1942 Chief Executive Officer from June 1990 until April 2003; Chairman of the Board since January 1999. Avi Patir 1948 Chief Executive Officer until February, 2004. 31 Name Year of Birth Position and Business Experience for past five years ---- ------------- ---------------------------------------------------- Israel Eldar 1945 Corporate Controller and responsible for risks and business interruption management. A director of subsidiaries and affiliated companies of the Company. Ofra Gorni 1953 Business Development Manager and a director of subsidiaries and affiliated companies of the Company. Lea Katz 1950 Legal counsel and Corporate Secretary since August 2000. Gabi Kenan 1944 Deputy General Manager. A director of subsidiaries and affiliated companies of the Company. Pinhas Rimon 1940 General manager of Packaging Paper and Recycling Division. A director of subsidiaries and affiliated companies of the Company. Gideon Liberman 1950 General Manager of Development and Infrastructure Division Senior Management in Subsidiaries and Affiliated Companies (as of May 31, 2004) Name Position in the Company ---- ----------------------- Avi Brener General Manager, Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. Avner Solel General Manager, Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. Doron Katzir General Manager, Graffiti Office Supplies & Paper Marketing Ltd. Rafi Alon General Manager, T.M.M. Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. Doron Kempler General Manager, Carmel Container Systems Ltd. B. Compensation The aggregate amount of remuneration paid to all directors and the above senior officers of the Company as a group for services provided by them to the Company during 2003 was approximately NIS 32 10,071,000 (approximately `$2,218,000). The aggregate amount set aside for pension, retirement or similar benefits for directors and officers as a group for services provided by them to the Company during 2003 was approximately NIS 896,000 (approximately $197,000). Remuneration paid by the Company in 2003 to Mr. Yerushalmi, the Company's CEO and Chairman of the Board, for services provided by him to the Company during 2003, was NIS 2,178,000 (approximately $479,000). Agreement with Mr. Yerushalmi The general shareholders meeting which took place in 2003 approved the foregoing addition to the Chairman's employment agreement. : The agreement regarding the employment of the Chairman will end on March 1, 2007 ("retirement date"). Each of the Company and the Chairman will have the right to terminate the employment agreement prior to the foregoing date by giving the other party a 180-day prior notice, provided that the Chairman may not give notice of termination of the employment agreement prior to March 1, 2005. If the Chairman's employment is terminated by the Company or if he resigns, the Chairman will have the right to receive (i) all rights relating to a managers' insurance policy maintained for him by the Company and (ii) all severance monies and other amounts paid for him by the Company to various funds. If the Chairman's employment is terminated by the Company or if he resigns as a result of a demotion in his responsibilities without his consent, the Chairman will have the right to continue receiving all payments and other benefits payable to him under the employment agreement until his retirement date. In addition, upon the termination of employment of the Chairman he will have the right to receive a payment in an aggregate amount equal to one-month's salary for each year in which he was employed by the Company and an additional $300,000, as a bonus in respect of the establishment by him of strategic partnerships. All other terms of the Chairman's employment agreement as currently in effect shall remain unchanged. On May 7, 2001, the Company's Board of Directors adopted an incentive plan, which was subsequently approved by the Company's shareholders, to remunerate the Company's Chairman of the Board of Directors. According to the plan, such remuneration will be equal to the increase in the value of 50,000 ordinary shares of the Company in the period from May 7, 2001 (share price - NIS 194.37) to May 7, 2008. The remuneration will be spread over the period commencing two years from the resolution of the Board of Directors, until the seventh anniversary of such resolution. As of December 31, 2003 one quarter of the remuneration is exercisable. Remuneration of Directors The remuneration of the directors (including the external directors) for 2003 was approved at the 2003 general meeting of shareholders. Pursuant to regulations under the Israeli Companies Law, each external director of the Company must receive the same annual compensation, which must be between NIS 28,022 and NIS 45,531, plus an additional fee for each meeting attended which must be between NIS 986 and NIS 1,751. The Board approved in 2000 that the remuneration of each director, including the external directors, be fixed at NIS 39,000 plus an additional NIS 1,500 for each meeting attended. The same amounts were approved by the Board in 2001. In 2002, the Board of Directors resolved that the remuneration of each director will be NIS 35,000 plus NIS 1,350 for each meeting attended (a decrease of 10% compared to 2001), subject to the approval of the Company's shareholders. In 2003 the Board of Directors resolved that the remuneration of each director will be the same as in the years 2000 and 2001, 33 namely, NIS 39,000 plus an additional NIS 1,500 for each meeting attended. The remuneration was also approved by the General Meeting of Shareholders. C. Board practices The directors of the Company, except for the external directors, retire from office at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders and are eligible for re-appointment at such Annual General Meeting. Notwithstanding the aforesaid, if no directors were appointed at any Annual General Meeting, the directors appointed at the previous Annual General Meeting shall continue in office. Directors, except for the external directors, may be removed from office earlier by a resolution at an Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. The Articles of Association of the Company provide that any director may, by written notice, appoint any person who is approved by the directors to be an alternate director and to act in his place and to vote at any meeting at which he is not personally present. The alternate director is entitled to notice of Board meetings and he will be remunerated out of the remuneration of the director appointing him. The alternate director shall vacate his office if and when the director appointing him vacates his office as director, or removes him from office by written notice. There are no services contracts which give the current directors of the Company any benefits upon termination of appointment, except for Mr. Yaacov Yerushalmi, whose terms of employment were submitted for approval at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders according to Israeli law. External Directors Under the Israeli Companies Law, which became effective on February 1, 2000, the Company (as a public company) is required to have at least two external directors as members of its Board of Directors. An external director may not have any financial or other substantial connection with the Company and must be appointed at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders. The external directors are elected for a three-year term of office that may be extended for another three years. External directors who were elected before February 1, 2000 may serve five years. Audit Committee Under the Israeli Companies Law, members of the Audit Committee are to be elected from members of the Board of the Company by the Board. The Audit Committee will be comprised of at least three directors, including all of the external directors, but excluding: (i) the chairman of the board of directors; (ii) any director employed by the Company or who provides services to the Company on a regular basis; or (iii) a controlling shareholder of the Company or his relative. The role of the Audit Committee under the Israeli law is: (i) to examine flaws in the business management of the Company in consultation with its auditors and to suggest appropriate courses of action and (ii) to decide whether to approve actions or transactions which under the Israeli Companies Law require the approval of the Audit Committee (transaction with a related party, etc.) The Company does not currently have a Nominating Committee nor a Compensation Committee. Our Audit Committee complies with the applicable provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the rules promulgated thereunder." 34 The Company's Audit Committee members are: Amos Mar-Haim, Chairman, Miri Lent-Sharir, and Aviezer (Gezi) Kaplan. D. Employees As of April 30, 2004, the Company and its subsidiaries had 724 employees and the Group (including associated companies) had 3,133 employees, of whom 884 were engaged in the household paper activities, 291 were engaged in the printing and writing paper activities, 871 were engaged in the recycling activities, 571 were engaged in the corrugated board containers activities, 165 were engaged in the office supplies activities, 286 worked at the paper mills in Hadera and Tel Aviv and for other related subsidiaries and 65 were management and clerical personnel at the Company's headquarters in Hadera. Some of the employees are subject to the terms of employment of collective bargaining agreements. The parties to such collective bargaining agreement are the Company and the employees, through the union. E. Share ownership In January 1998, the Company's Board of Directors approved a stock option plan, pursuant to which options for ordinary shares were allocated to senior officers of the Company and its subsidiaries, including 32,000 options to the CEO, in three annual installments. The plan was approved at the Company's Annual General Meeting of Shareholders in February 1998. In 1998, 52,833 options were granted to senior officers under this plan. In 1999, 51,335 options were granted under this plan and in 2000 51,335 options were granted. For further information regarding the 1998 plan, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. A total of 35,990 shares were issued in March 2000, as a result of the exercise of 51,335 options from the first installment, which were allocated to employees within the framework of the 1998 stock option plan. In March 2001, 28,149 shares were issued as a result of the exercise of 46,002 stock options which were allocated to them within the framework of the 1998 stock option plan. In 2003, an additional 28,693 shares were issued as a result of the exercise of 56,663 stock options which were allocated to employees within the framework of the 1998 stock option plan. The unexercised balance of 1,498 options granted expired in 2003. In April 2001, the Board of Directors of the Company adopted a new stock option plan under which options to purchase a total of 194,300 shares may be granted to senior officers of the Company and certain other companies in the Group. All of the options were granted in July 2001. Each option is exercisable to purchase one ordinary share of NIS 0.01 par value of the Company. The options vest in four yearly installments. The vesting period of the first installment is two years, commencing on the date of grant, and the next three installments vest on the third, fourth and fifth anniversary of the grant date. Each installment is exercisable for two years from the vesting date of such installment. For further information regarding the 2001 plan, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. In 2003,1,550 options were exercised under the 2001 plan. 227 shares were issued following the exercise. In August 2001, the Company's Board of Directors approved a stock option plan for employees of the Company and its subsidiaries. Under this plan, up to 125,000 options may be granted without consideration. Each option is exercisable to purchase one ordinary share of NIS 0.01 par value of the Company. In November 2001, 81,455 options were granted under the 2001 employee plan. For further 35 information regarding the 2001 employee plan, see Note 6 of the Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements. In 2003, 57,962 options were exercised under the 2001 employee plan. 20,665 shares were issued following the exercise. ITEM 7 - MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS A. Major shareholders The following table sets forth, as of June 15, 2004, the number of Ordinary Shares of the Company owned beneficially by (i) all those persons who, to the Company's knowledge, were the beneficial owners of more than 5% of such outstanding shares, and (ii) all officers and directors of the Company as a group: ------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- -------------------- Name and Address: Amount Beneficially Owned Percent of Class Principal Shareholders: Directly or Indirectly/1/ Outstanding ---------------------- ------------- ----------- Clal Industries and Investments Ltd. ("Clal"), 3 Azrieli Center, 1,292,769/2/ 32.54 the Triangle Building, Tel Aviv, Israel Discount Investment Corporation Ltd. ("DIC"), 3 Azrieli Center, 730,565/2/ 18.39 the Triangle Building, Tel Aviv, Israel Michael Dorsman, 20 Shlonski St., Tel Aviv, Israel 455,150 11.5 Bank Hapoalim Ltd. 62 Yehuda Halevi st. Tel Aviv, Israel (Through 213,489 5.37 trust and provident funds) ------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- -------------------- All officers and directors as a group /3/ ------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------------------- -------------------- /1/ Beneficial ownership is based on shared voting and dispositive power over the securities listed in the table. /2/ IDB Holding Corporation Ltd. ("IDBH") is the parent of IDB Development Corporation Ltd. ("IDBD"), which, in turn, is the parent of DIC and Clal. IDBH, IDBD, Clal and DIC are public companies traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. On May 19, 2003, private companies controlled by Oudi Recanati, Leon Y. Recanati, Judith Yovel Recanati and Elaine Recanati completed a sale of all of the shares of IDBH held by them, constituting approximately 51.7% of the outstanding share capital of IDBH, to a group comprised of: (i) Ganden Investments I.D.B. Ltd. ("Ganden"), a private Israeli company controlled by Nochi Dankner and his sister, Shelly Bergman, which, following this transaction, holds 31.02% of the equity of and voting power in IDBH; (ii) Manor Investments-IDB Ltd. ("Manor"), a private Israeli company controlled by Ruth Manor, which, following this transaction, holds 10.34% of the equity of and voting power in IDBH; and (iii) Avraham Livnat Investments (2002) Ltd. ("Livnat"), a private Israeli company controlled by Avraham Livnat, which, following this transaction, holds 10.34% of the equity of and voting power in IDBH. In addition, Shely Bergman owns approximately 4.75% of the equity and voting power of IDBH. Ganden, Manor and Livnat, owning in the aggregate approximately 51.7% of the equity of and voting power in IDBH, entered into a Shareholders Agreement relating, among other things, to their joint control of IDBH, the term of which is until May 19, 2023. Nochi Dankner is Chairman of IDBH, IDBD, Clal and DIC. Shelly Bergman, Isaac Manor (the husband of Ruth Manor), and Zvi Livnat (the son of Avraham Livnat) are directors of each of IDBH, IDBD, Clal and DIC. /3/ The officers and directors of the Company own, in the aggregate, less than 1% of the Company's outstanding Ordinary Shares, excluding the shares beneficially owned by Michael Dorsman, Nochi Dankner, Isaac Manor and Zvi Livnat whose ownerships are described above. 36 On February 5, 1980, Clal entered into a Voting Agreement with DIC, pursuant to which Clal and DIC agreed to coordinate and pool their voting power in the Company in order to appoint an equal number of On February 5, 1980, Clal entered into a Voting Agreement wit DIC., pursuant to which Clal and DIC agreed to coordinate and pool their voting power in the Company in order to appoint equal of each party's nominees to the Board of Directors of the Company and in order to elect designees on their behalf to the main board committees of the Company. The parties have also agreed to vote en bloc at general meetings of the Company on the subject of dividend distributions. Finally, in the event that any party to the agreement decides to dispose of its Ordinary Shares, the agreement grants the other parties thereto a first refusal option with respect to such shares. The term of the agreement is for ten years, subject to extensions for additional ten year periods. This agreement has been extended through the year 2010. Based on the foregoing and on the shareholdings and other relationships set forth in the preceding table and the footnotes thereto, Clal, DIC, IDBD, IDBH and Nochi Dankner, Shelly-Bergman, Isaac, Ruth and Dori Manor, and Avraham and Zvi Livnat may be deemed to constitute a group in control of the Company. The Company estimates that as of April 30, 2004, 9.21% of its outstanding ordinary shares were held in the United States by 2,396 record holders. All ordinary shares of the Company have equal voting rights. B. Related Party Transactions The information is included in the Company's attached Consolidated Financial Statements: For loans to associated companies, see Note 2 to the attached financial statements. For a capital note to an associated company, see Note 4c to the attached financial statements. For transactions and balances with related parties, see Note 12 to the attached financial statements. For further information see also Note 9e to the financial statements attached. C. Interests of Experts and Counsel Not applicable to annual reports. ITEM 8 - FINANCIAL INFORMATION 37 A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information See the financial statements included in Item 18. B. Significant Changes None. ITEM 9 - THE OFFER AND LISTING A. Offer and Listing Details The Company's ordinary shares are listed on the American Stock Exchange. The trading symbol for the ordinary shares is AIP. The ordinary shares are also listed on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange. The following table sets forth the high and low sale prices of the Company's ordinary shares on the American Stock Exchange and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange for the periods indicated: Last full five fiscal years American Stock Exchange Tel Aviv Stock Exchange ------------------------------ ----------------------------- --------------------------------------------------- High Low High Low High Low ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- ------------ ------------- ----------- ------------ $ NIS $/1/ ------------------------------ ----------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------ Calendar Year ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2003 54.66 29.22 239.00 143.60 54.58 30.01 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2002 40.50 25.10 178.00 116.10 40.10 24.90 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2001 64.25 30.00 267.50 130.30 64.80 29.82 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2000 83.5 55.31 347.00 224.90 86.10 54.96 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1999 65.5 31.13 282.00 139.70 66.71 34.37 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Quarters during last two full fiscal years and first quarter of 2004: American Stock Exchange Tel Aviv Stock Exchange ------------------------------ ----------------------------- --------------------------------------------------- High Low High Low High Low ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- ------------ ------------- ----------- ------------ $ NIS $/1/ ------------------------------ ----------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------ 2004 Quarter Ended ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- March 31 60.73 53.01 267.10 234.90 60.33 52.10 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- 2003 Quarter Ended High Low High Low High Low ------------------------------ ----------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------- $ NIS $/1/ ------------------------------ ----------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------- March 31 35.50 29.22 165.20 143.60 35.25 30.01 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- June 30 46.12 35.65 200.00 163.30 46.38 35.66 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- September 30 47.20 41.10 205.70 178.60 46.19 40.31 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- December 31 54.66 45.00 239.00 197.50 54.58 44.56 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- 2002 Quarters Ended High Low High Low High Low ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- $ NIS $/1/ ------------------------------ ----------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------- March 31 40.50 32.00 178.00 149.30 40.10 32.00 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- June 30 32.10 26.30 149.20 125.20 31.30 25.60 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- September 30 28.60 25.10 133.60 116.10 28.60 24.90 ------------------------------ --------------- ------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- December 31 33.30 26.50 155.20 125.30 33.50 26.30 38 ---------- /1/ Share prices have been translated from New Israeli Shekels (NIS) to U.S. Dollars at the representative rate of exchange, as reported by the Bank of Israel, on the dates when such high or low prices in NIS were recorded. 39 Last full six months prior to filing of this report: ------------------------------ ----------------------------- ---------------------------------------------------- American Stock Exchange Tel Aviv Stock Exchange ----------------------------- ------------- --------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- High Low High Low High Low ----------------------------- ----------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------- $ NIS $/1/ ------------------------------ ----------------------------- -------------------------- ------------------------- May 2004 53.88 51.30 245.70 235.70 53.94 51.01 ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- April 2004 57.25 53.25 257.30 239.30 56.80 52.88 ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- March 2004 56.20 53.01 249.00 234.90 55.53 52.10 ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- February 2004 55.65 54.50 255.00 242.00 57.18 54.23 ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- January 2004 60.73 53.13 267.10 242.70 60.33 54.50 ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- December 2003 54.66 49.01 239.00 222.40 54.58 50.17 ------------------------------ ------------- --------------- -------------- ----------- ----------- ------------- ITEM 10 - ADDITIONAL INFORMATION A. Share Capital Not applicable to Annual Reports. B. Memorandum and Articles of Association The Company was registered under Israeli law on February 10, 1951 and its registration number with the Israeli registrar of companies is 52-001838-3. On June 20, 2001, the Company's shareholders approved a new version of the Articles of Association ("Articles"). Objects of the Company As indicated in Article 5 of the Company's Articles, the Company may, at any time, engage in any branch or kind of business in which it is, expressly or by implication, authorized to engage in accordance with the Articles. The Company may also cease to engage in such businesses, whether or not it has commenced to engage in such branch or kind of business. ---------- /1/ Share prices have been translated from New Israeli Shekels (NIS) to U.S. Dollars at the representative rate of exchange, as reported by the Bank of Israel, on the dates when such high or low prices in NIS were recorded. 40 Director's Personal Interest The Israeli Companies Law requires that a director and an officer of a company disclose to the company any personal interest that he may have and all related material information, in connection with any existing or proposed transaction by the company. The disclosure is required to be made promptly and in any event no later than the date of meeting of the board of directors in which the transaction is first discussed. If the transaction is an extraordinary transaction, the procedure of approval is as described below. Under Israeli law, an extraordinary transaction is a transaction other than in the ordinary course of business, otherwise than on market terms or that is likely to have a material impact on the company's profitability, assets or liabilities. Subject to the restrictions of the Israeli Companies Law, a director is entitled to participate in the deliberations and vote with regard to the approval of transactions in which he has a personal interest. A director is not entitled to participate and vote with regard to the approval of an extraordinary transaction in which he has a personal interest, the approval of indemnity, exemption or insurance of the directors or the approval of the directors' compensation. If a majority of the directors have a personal interest in a certain decision, they may participate and vote but the issue must be approved also by the audit committee and by the shareholders. If the controlling shareholder has a personal interest in an extraordinary transaction, the issue must be approved also by the audit committee and the shareholders. Any power of the Company which has not been conferred by law or by the Articles to any other body, may be exercised by the Board. The management of the Company is guided by the Board. The Board shall formulate the policies of the Company and shall supervise the performance of the office and actions of the General Manager, including inter alia examination of the financial position of the Company and determination of the credit framework which the Company may receive. Without derogating from any power vested in the Board in accordance with the Articles, the Board may, from time to time, at its discretion, decide upon the issuance of a series of debentures, including capital notes or undertakings, including debentures, capital notes or undertakings which can be converted into shares, and also the terms thereof, and mortgage of the property of the Company, in whole or in part, at present or in future, by floating or fixed charge. Debentures, capital notes, undertakings or other securities, as aforesaid, may be issued either at a discount or at a premium or in any other manner, whether with deferred rights or special rights and/or preferred rights and/or other rights, all the aforesaid as the Board may, at its discretion, determine. Except for special cases as detailed in the Articles and subject to the provisions of the Israeli Companies Law, the Board may delegate its powers to the General Manager, to an officer of the Company or to any other person or to the Board committees. Delegation of the powers of the Board may be with regard to a specific matter or for a particular period, at the discretion of the Board. There are no limitation requirements regarding age affecting directors' ability to serve as directors of the Company. The directors need not be shareholders of the Company in order to qualify as directors. The Shares -Rights and Restrictions All of the Company's shares are ordinary shares. Every ordinary share in the capital of the Company is of equal rights, for all intents and purposes, to every other ordinary share, including the right 41 to dividends, to bonus shares and to participation in the surplus assets of the Company upon liquidation, proportionately to the par value of each share, without taking into consideration any premium paid in respect thereof, all the aforesaid subject to the provisions of the Articles. Each of the ordinary shares entitles the holder thereof to participate at and to one vote at Annual General Meetings of the Company. As described in Item 6.C, all directors, except external directors, stand for election each year at the Annual General Meeting. Subject to the provisions of the Israeli Companies Law, the Board may resolve upon the distribution of a dividend. When deciding on the distribution of a dividend, the Board may decide that the dividend shall be paid, in whole or in part, in cash or by way of the distribution of assets in specie, including securities or bonus shares, or in any other manner at the discretion of the Board. Dividends on the Company's ordinary shares may be paid only out of retained earnings, as defined in the Israeli Companies Law, as of the end of the most recent fiscal year or profits accrued over a period of two years, whichever is higher. The Company may, by resolution adopted at an Annual General Meeting by an ordinary majority, decrease the capital of the Company and of any reserve fund from redemption of capital. For the execution of any resolution as aforesaid, the Board may, at its discretion, resolve any issues, which may arise in connection therewith. In case of winding up of the Company, the liquidator may determine the proper value of the assets available for distribution and determine how the distribution among the shareholders will be carried out. The liability of the shareholders is limited to the payment of par value of their ordinary shares. Under the Israeli Companies Law, each and every shareholder has a duty to act in good faith in exercising his rights and fulfilling his obligations toward the Company and other shareholders and to refrain from abusing his power in the Company, such as in voting at the General Meeting of shareholders on the following matters: any amendment to the Articles; an increase of authorized share capital; a merger; or an approval of certain actions and transactions which require shareholder approval. In addition, each and every shareholder has the general duty to refrain from depriving other shareholders of their rights. Furthermore, any controlling shareholder, any shareholder who knows that it possesses the power to determine the outcome of a shareholder vote and any shareholder that, pursuant to the provisions of the Articles, has the power to appoint or to prevent the appointment of an officer in the Company or any other power toward he Company is under a duty to act in fairness toward the Company. The Israeli Companies Law does not describe the substance of this duty of fairness. These various shareholder duties may restrict the ability of a shareholder to act in what the shareholder perceives to be its own best interests. Modification of Rights of Shares If the share capital is divided into different classes, the Company may by resolution adopted at a General Meeting by a special majority (except if the terms of the issuance of the shares of such class otherwise provide) annul, convert, expand, supplement, restrict, amend or otherwise modify the rights of a class of shares of the Company, provided that the consent, in writing, of all the shareholders of such 42 class thereto shall be received or that the resolution shall have been approved by a General Meeting of the shareholders of such class by special majority, or in the event that it was otherwise provided in the terms of the issuance of a particular class of the shares of the Company, as may have been provided in the terms of issuance of such class, provided that the quorum at the class meeting shall be the presence, in person or by proxy, at the opening of the meeting of at least two shareholders who own at least twenty five percent (25%) of the number of the issued shares of such class. The rights conferred upon the shareholders or owners of a class of shares, whether issued with ordinary rights or with preference rights or with other special rights, shall not be deemed to have been converted, restricted, prejudiced or altered in any other manner by the creation or issuance of additional shares of any class, whether of the same degree or in a degree different or preferable to them, nor shall they be deemed to have been converted, restricted, prejudiced or altered in any other manner by a change of the rights linked to any other class of shares, all the aforesaid unless otherwise expressly provided in the terms of the issuance of such shares. Shareholders Meeting The Company shall hold an Annual General Meeting each year not later than fifteen months after the previous Annual Meeting, at such time and place as may be determined by the Board. Any other General Meeting is referred to as a "Special Meeting". A notice of a General Meeting shall be published in at least two widely distributed daily newspapers published in Hebrew. The notice shall be published at least fourteen days prior to the convocation of the meeting. In addition the Company provides a notice of the meeting and related proxy statement in English to the holders of its Ordinary Shares listed on the records of the Company's registrar and stock transfer agent in the United States. Apart from the notices as to the General Meeting as above, according to its articles and the Israeli Companies Law the Company is not required to give any notice as to the General Meeting, either to the registered shareholders or to shareholders who are not registered, subject to provisions of the Companies Law and/or any other applicable law. The notice as to a General Meeting is required to detail the place, the day and the hour at which the meeting will be held and to include the agenda as well as a summary of the proposed resolutions and any other details required by law. The board of directors of the Company shall convene a Special Meeting as may be decided by the Board, and shall also convene a special meeting at the demand of any two directors or one quarter of the directors in office or one or more shareholders who hold at least five percent of the issued capital and one percent of the voting rights, or one or more shareholders who hold at least five percent of the voting rights. If the Board receives a demand for the convocation of a Special Meeting as aforesaid, the Board shall within twenty one days of receipt of the demand convene the meeting for a date fixed in the notice as to the Special Meeting, provided that the date for convocation shall not be later than thirty five days from the date of publication of the notice, all the aforesaid subject to the provisions of the Companies Law. In the resolution of the Board to convene a meeting, the Board may, at its discretion and subject to the provisions of the law, fix the manner in which the items on the agenda will be determined and notice given to the shareholders entitled to participate at the meeting. 43 No business shall be transacted at any General Meeting unless a quorum is present at the time the meeting proceeds to business. A quorum shall be constituted when two shareholders, holding collectively at least twenty five percent of the voting rights, are present in person or by proxy within half an hour from the time appointed for commencement of the meeting, unless otherwise determined in the Articles. If a quorum is not present within half an hour, the meeting shall stand adjourned for seven days, to the same day of the week at the same time and place, without need for notification to the shareholders, or to such other day, time and place as the Board may by notice to the shareholders appoint. If a quorum is not present as aforesaid at the adjourned meeting, the meeting shall be postponed. Voting and Adopting Resolutions at General Meetings A shareholder who wishes to vote at a General Meeting shall prove to the Company his ownership of his shares. The Board may issue directives and procedures relating to the proof of ownership of shares of the Company. A shareholder is entitled to vote at a General Meeting or class meeting, in person or by proxy. A voting proxy need not be a shareholder of the Company. The above shall also apply to any person entitled to shares, provided that at least forty eight hours before the time for the meeting or the adjourned meeting, as the case may be, at which he proposes to vote, he shall satisfy the Board of his right to vote such shares unless the Company shall have previously recognized his right to vote the shares at such meeting. The instrument appointing a proxy (hereinafter "Proxy Appointment") shall be in writing signed by the principal, or if the principal is a corporation the proxy appointment shall be in writing and signed by authorized signatories of the corporation The Board is entitled to demand that prior to the holding of the meeting, there shall be produced to the Company a confirmation in writing of the authority of signatories to bind the corporation to the satisfaction of the Board. The Board may also issue provisions and procedures relating to such matters. The Proxy Appointment or an office copy to the satisfaction of the Board shall be deposited at the registered office or at such other place or places, in or outside of Israel, as may from time to time be determined by the Board, either generally or in respect of a specific meeting, at least forty eight hours prior to the commencement of the meeting or the adjourned meeting, as the case may be, at which the proxy proposes to vote on the strength of such Proxy Appointment. A voting proxy is entitled to participate in the proceedings at the General Meeting and to be elected as chairman of the meeting in the same manner as the appointing shareholder, unless the Proxy Appointment otherwise provides. The Proxy Appointment shall be in form usual in Israel or any other form which may be approved by the Board. Each ordinary share entitles the holder thereof to participate at a General Meeting of the Company and to one vote at a poll. 44 Right of Non-Israeli Shareholders to Vote There is no limitation on the right of non-resident or foreign owners of any class of the Company's securities to hold or to vote according to the rights vested in such securities. Change of Control Under the Articles, the approval of merger as provided in the Israeli Companies Law, is subject to a simple majority at the General Meeting or class meeting, as the case may be, all the aforesaid subject to the applicable provisions of any law. It is also subject to the approval of the boards of the merging companies. For purposes of shareholders' approval, unless a court rules otherwise, the merger will not be deemed approved if a majority of the shares held by shareholders, other than the shareholders who are also shareholders in the other merging company whose shares are held by the other merging company, or by any person who holds 25% or more of the shares or the right to appoint 25% or more of the directors in the other merging company, vote against the merger. Upon the request of a creditor of either party to the proposed merger, a court may delay or prevent the merger if it concludes that there exists a reasonable concern that as a result of the merger, the surviving company will be unable to satisfy the obligations of any of the parties to the merger. In addition, a merger may not be completed unless at least 70 days have passed from the time that a proposal of the merger has been filed with the Israeli Registrar of Companies. The Israeli Companies Law also provides that an acquisition of shares of a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a 25% shareholder of the company and there is no existing 25% or more shareholder in the company. If there is no existing 50% or greater shareholder in the company, the Companies Law provides that an acquisition of shares of a public company must be made by means of a tender offer if as a result of the acquisition the purchaser would become a 45% shareholder of the company. If following any acquisition of shares, the acquirer will hold 90% or more of the company's shares, the acquisition may not be made other than through a tender offer to acquire all of the shares of such class. If more than 95% of the outstanding shares are tendered in the tender offer, all the shares that the acquirer offered to purchase will be sold to it. However, the remaining minority shareholders may seek to alter the consideration by court order. Under the Israeli Securities Act 5728-1968, any major shareholder who is the beneficial owner of more then 5% of the Company's equity capital or voting securities is required to report this fact to the Israeli Securities Authority. C. Material Contracts During the two years preceding the date of this annual report, the Company did not enter into any material contract. D. Exchange Controls Foreign Exchange Regulations There are no Israeli governmental laws, decrees or regulations that restrict or that affect the export or import of capital, including but not limited to, foreign exchange controls on remittance of 45 dividends on the ordinary shares or on the conduct of the Group's operations, except as otherwise set forth in the paragraph below regarding taxation. E. Taxation Investors are advised to consult their tax advisors with respect to the tax consequences of their purchases, ownership and sales of Ordinary Shares, including the consequences under applicable state and local law and federal estate and gift tax law, and the application of foreign laws or the effect of nonresident status on United States taxation. This tax summary does not address all of the tax consequences to the investors of purchasing, owning or disposing of the Ordinary Shares. Income Taxes on Dividends Distributed by the Company to Non-Israeli Residents Subject to the provisions of applicable tax treaties, dividend distributions from regular profits by the Company to a non-resident shareholder are subject to withholding tax of 25%. The portion of dividends paid out of profits earned by an Approved Enterprise of the Company is subject to withholding tax at the rate of 15%. The same rates generally apply under the Israeli-U.S. Tax Treaty. However, when a U.S. tax resident corporation is the recipient of the dividend, the rate on a dividend out of regular (non-Approved Enterprise) profits may be reduced to 12.5% under the treaty, where the following conditions are met: (a) the recipient corporation owns at least 10% of the outstanding voting rights of the Company for all of the period preceding the dividend during the Company's current and prior taxable year; and (b) generally not more than 25% of the gross income of the paying corporation for its prior tax year consists of certain interest and dividend income. Otherwise, the usual rates apply. United States individual citizens and residents and U.S. corporations generally will be required to include in their gross income the full amount of dividends received from the Company with respect to the Ordinary Shares owned by them, including the amount withheld as Israeli income tax. Subject to the limitations and conditions provided in the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), such persons may be eligible to claim a credit for such withheld amounts against their United States federal income tax liability. As an alternative, the persons enumerated above (provided such persons, in the case of individual taxpayers, itemize their deductions) may elect to deduct such withheld tax from their gross income in determining taxable income (subject to applicable limitations on the deductions claimed by individuals). However, such a credit or deduction may be limited for U.S. alternative minimum tax purposes, depending on the taxpayer's specific circumstances. Dividend payments on the Ordinary Shares will not be eligible for a dividends received deduction generally allowed to United States corporations under the Code. Income Taxes and Capital Gains Applicable in Israel and to Non-Israeli Shareholders The basic tax rate applicable to corporations is currently 36%. The maximum tax rate for individuals is 49%. These rates are subject to the provisions of any applicable bilateral double taxation treaty. Israeli law generally imposes a capital gains tax on the sale of securities and any other capital assets. Effective January 1, 2003, the capital gains tax rate imposed, on both individuals and corporations upon sale of capital assets and non-traded securities, acquired after that date has been reduced to 25%; capital gains accrued from assets acquired before that date are subject to a blended tax rate based on the relative Periods of time before and after that date that the asset was held. 46 Effective January 1, 2003, capital gains from the sale of ordinary shares on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (or listed on a designated foreign stock market or traded in a foreign stock exchange), accrued by individuals (and certain corporations) whose income in this regard is not classified as business income, derived from January 1, 2003 and thereafter, will in general be liable to capital gains tax of up to 15%. To the extent that the holder of the ordinary shares claims a deduction of financing expenses, the gain will be subject to tax at a rate of 25%. In addition, if the ordinary shares are traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange (or listed on a designated foreign stock market), gains on the sale of ordinary shares held by non-Israeli tax resident investors will generally be exempt from Israeli capital gains tax. Notwithstanding the foregoing, dealers (both individuals and corporation) in securities in Israel are taxed at regular tax rates applicable to business income. The U.S. Israeli Tax Treaty exempts U.S. residents who hold an interest of less than 10% an Israeli company, and who held an interest of less than 10% during the 12 months prior to a sale of their shares, from Israeli capital gains tax in connection with such sale. Certain other tax treaties to which Israel is a party also grant exemptions from Israeli capital gains taxes. F. Dividends and Paying Agents Not applicable to Annual Reports. G. Statement by Expert Not applicable to Annual Reports. H. Documents on display A copy of each document (or a translation thereof to the extent not in English) concerning the Company that is referred to in this Annual Report on Form 20-F, is available for public view at our principal executive offices at American Israeli Paper Mills Ltd., 1 Meizer Street Industrial Zone, Hadera 38100, Israel. Copies of this Annual Report and the exhibits hereto may be inspected and copied at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20549 and at the SEC's regional office at 500 West Madison Street, Suite 1400, Chicago, Illinois 60661. Copies of the materials may be obtained from the Public Reference Room of the SEC at 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20549 at prescribed rates. The public may obtain information on the operation of the SEC's Public Reference Room by calling the SEC in the United States at 1-800-SEC-0330. ITEM 11 - QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURE ABOUT MARKET RISK Due to its operations, the Company is exposed to market risks, consisting primarily of changes in interest rates - on both short and long-term loans - changes in exchange rates (primarily NIS/$) and changes in raw material and energy prices, which are denominated primarily in foreign currency. These changes influence the Company's results. The Company's Board of Directors determines the policy according to which financial instruments are employed and defines the objectives to be attained, taking into account the Group's linkage balance sheet and the impact of various changes in currencies and in the Consumer Price Index on the Company's balance sheets and on its financial statements. AIPM conducts calculations of the Company's exposure every month and examines the compliance with the policy determined by the Board of Directors. 47 Furthermore, limited use is made of derivative financial instruments, which the Company employs for hedging the cash flows in dollars, originating from the existing assets and liabilities. Such transactions are conducted primarily through currency options and forward transactions opposite Israeli banking institutions. The Company therefore believes that the inherent credit risk of these transactions is slight. The Company possesses CPI-linked long-term loans (notes and loans) in the total sum of NIS 240 million ($54.8 million), with the interest thereupon being no higher than the market interest rate. In the event that the inflation rate increases and is considerably high, this could lead to an additional financial expenses being recorded in the Company's financial statements as a result of a surplus of CPI-linked liabilities. At December 31, 2003, the Company was not involved in any forward transactions. In January 2004, the Company entered into a forward transaction, with a term of one year, to hedge a sum of NIS 200 million against a rise in the CPI, in order to hedge the said exposure. The Company has only limited involvement with derivative financial instruments. The Company uses these instruments as hedges. The Company utilizes derivatives, mainly forward exchange contracts and currency options, to protect its dollar cash flows in respect of existing assets and liabilities or commitments that are to be affected by changes in exchange rates or in the Israeli CPI. As the counter-parties to these derivatives are Israeli banks, the Company considers the inherent credit risks remote. Credit Risks Most of the Group's sales are made in Israel to a large number of customers and the exposure to customer-related credit risks is consequently generally limited. The Group regularly analyzes - through credit committees that operate within the various companies - the quality of the customers, their credit limits and the relevant collateral required, as the case may be. The financial statements include provisions for doubtful debts, based on the existing risks on the date of the statements. The cash, cash equivalents and fixed-term deposits are by and large deposited with large Israeli banking institutions or foreign banks controlled by the said institutions. Fair Value of Financial Instruments The fair value of financial instruments included in working capital of the Group is usually identical or close to their carrying value. The fair value of long-term bank loans and other liabilities also approximates the carrying value, since they bear interest at rates close to the prevailing market rates except for as follows: The fair value of long-term loans and capital notes, included under investments in associated companies, aggregating adjusted NIS 44,637,000 and of a capital note to an associated company in the amount of adjusted NIS 32,770,000. Their value cannot be reliably determined prior to determining their repayment dates. 48 Quantitative Information Regarding Market Risk The following are the balance-sheet components by linkage bases at December 31, 2003: In NIS Million Unlinked CPI-linked In foreign Non-monetary Total currency, or items linked thereto (primarily $) ----------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- -------------------- --------------- ---------- Assets Cash and cash equivalents 150.1 8.6 158.7 Short-term deposit 20.0 20.0 Other accounts receivable 210.6 0.2 48.5 9.9 269.2 Inventories 90.7 90.7 Investments in associated companies 12.2 10.6 21.9 339.2 383.9 Deferred taxes on income 3.9 3.9 Fixed assets, net 325.6 325.6 Deferred expenses, net of accrued amortization 1.3 1.3 ----------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- -------------------- --------------- ---------- Total assets 392.9 10.8 79.0 770.6 1,253.3 ----------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- -------------------- --------------- ---------- Liabilities Credit from banks 144.6 144.6 Loans from banks 0.4 0.4 Accounts payable 146.1 11.6 157.7 Deferred taxes on income 61.8 61.8 Notes 239.6 239.6 Other liabilities 32.8 2.2 35.0 Shareholders' equity, 614.2 614.2 ----------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- -------------------- --------------- ---------- Total liabilities and equity 323.5 240.0 13.8 676.0 1,253.3 ----------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- -------------------- --------------- ---------- Excess of monetary assets (liabilities) at December 31, 2003 69.4 (229.2) 65.2 94.6 - ----------------------------------------------- ------------ ----------- -------------------- --------------- ---------- ITEM 12 - DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES Not applicable to Annual Reports ITEM 13 - DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES None. ITEM 14 - MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS None. 49 ITEM 15 - CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES The Company maintains disclosure controls and procedures that are designed to ensure that information required to be disclosed in the Company's periodic filings with the SEC is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the SEC's rules and forms, and that such information is accumulated and communicated to the Company's management, including the Company's Chief Executive Officer (CEO - the Company's senior executive officer) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO - the Company's senior financial officer), as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. In designing and evaluating the disclosure controls and procedures, management recognized that any controls and procedures, no matter how well designed and operated, can provide only reasonable assurance of achieving the desired control objectives. Furthermore, management necessarily was required to use its judgment in evaluating the cost to benefit relationship of possible disclosure controls and procedures. Within 90 days prior to the date of this report, the Company performed an evaluation of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company's disclosure controls and procedures. The evaluation was performed with the participation of senior management of each business segment and key corporate functions, and under the supervision of the CEO and CFO. Based on the evaluation, the Company's management, including the CEO and CFO, concluded that the Company's disclosure controls and procedures were effective. There have been no significant changes in the Company's internal controls or in other factors that could significantly affect internal controls after the date the Company completed the evaluation. ITEM 16A. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT Amos Mar-Haim, a member of the Registrant's Audit Committee, is an Audit Committee Financial Expert under the applicable rules and regulations of the SEC. Amos Mar-Haim is "independent", as that term is defined in the American Stock Exchange listing standards. ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS The Company has adopted a code of ethics which is applicable to all directors, officers and employees of the Company, including its principal executive, financial and accounting officers and persons performing similar functions (the "Code of Ethics"). The Code of Ethics covers areas of professional and business conduct, and is intended to promote honest and ethical behavior, including fair dealing and the ethical handling of conflicts of interest; support full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents the Company files with, or submits to, the SEC and other governmental authorities, and in its other public communications; deter wrongdoing; encourage compliance with applicable laws and governmental rules and regulations; and ensure the protection of the Company's legitimate business interests. The Company encourages all of its directors, officers and employees promptly to report any violations of the Code of Ethics, and has provided mechanisms by which they may do so. The Company will provide a copy of the Code of Ethics to any person, without charge, upon written request addressed to the Corporate Secretary of the Company at the Company's corporate headquarters in Hadera, Israel. ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES The Audit Committee maintains a policy of approving and recommending only those services to be performed by the Company's external auditors which are permitted under the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the applicable rules of the SEC relating to auditor's independence, and which are otherwise consistent with and will encourage, and are remunerated at levels that accord with, the basic principles of auditor independence. The practice of the Audit Committee is to receive from the Company's management, a list of all services, including audit, audit-related, tax and other services, proposed to be provided during the 50 current fiscal year to the Company and its subsidiaries by Kesselman & Kesselman, an affiliate of PricewaterhouseCoopers. After reviewing and considering the services proposed to be provided during the current fiscal year and, where appropriate in order better to understand their nature, discussing them with management, the Audit Committee pre-approves such of the proposed services, with a specific pre-approved budget, as it considers appropriate in accordance with the above principles. Additional services from Kesselman & Kesselman and any increase in budgeted amounts will similarly be pre-approved during the year by the Audit Committee on a case-by-case basis. All audit-related and non-audit-related services performed by Kesselman & Kesselman during 2003 were reported to, and the services proposed to be provided by them during 2004 pre-approved by, the Audit Committee in May 10, 2004, in accordance with the procedures outlined above. The total fees paid by the Company to Kesselman & Kesselman for all services, described above, including audit services, for the years ended December 31, 2003 and 2002 were $125 in thousands and $160 in thousands, respectively. Item 16D. Exemptions from the Listing Standards for Audit Committees Not applicable to Registrant. Item 16E. Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and Affiliated Purchasers Neither the Company nor any affiliated purchaser purchased any of the Company's equity securities during 2003. PART III ITEM 18 - FINANCIAL STATEMENTS Report of Independent Auditors on Reconciliation of Israeli GAAP to U.S. GAAP To the Shareholders of American Israeli Paper Mills Ltd. In connection with our audits of the consolidated balance sheets of American Israeli Paper Mills Ltd. ("the Company") as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003 (the "Financial Statements"), which are incorporated in this Form 20-F, we have also audited the information included in the Reconciliation of Israeli GAAP to U.S. GAAP listed under Item 18 herein. Those financial statements and the Reconciliation are the responsibility of the Company's Board of directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the financial statements and the Reconciliation based on our audit. We did not audit the U.S.GAAP financial data of certain associated companies in which the Company's share in excess of profits over losses of which is a net amount of remeasured NIS 24.7 million in 2003 and re-measured NIS 26.7 million in 2002. The financial data of those companies were audited by other independent auditors whose reports have been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to amounts included for those companies, is based solely on the reports of the other independent auditors. We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in Israel, and the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), which include examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the attached report, in order to obtain reasonable assurance that there is no material misstatement, and to provide us with a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of the other independent auditors, the information set forth under Item 18 present fairly, in all material respects, in relation to the Financial Statements taken as a whole the financial position and the operating results of the Company in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. /s/ Kesselman & Kesselman Tel-Aviv, Israel Kesselman & Kesselman March 10, 2004 Certified Public Accountants (Isr.) The Company prepares its financial statements in accordance with Israeli GAAP. Israeli GAAP and U.S. GAAP vary in certain significant respects, as described below: a. The functional currency of the Company Through December 31, 1993, the financial statements of the Company, presented in NIS values adjusted for the changes in the general purchasing power of the Israeli currency based on the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar (see note 1b to the financial statements attached), were also used for the purposes of reporting in conformity with U.S. GAAP applicable to entities operating in hyper-inflationary economic environments, as prescribed by Statement No. 52 of the Financial Accounting Standards Board of the United States (FASB). Since the inflation rate in Israel has decreased considerably, the Company decided that, commencing in 1994, it would implement the rules relating to economies no longer considered hyper-inflationary, for reporting purposes, in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Under those rules: 1) The functional currency of the Company (the currency in which most income is derived and most expenses are incurred) is the New Israeli Shekel (NIS); 51 2) The opening balances for 1994 are the balances presented in the Company's balance sheet at December 31, 1993; 3) Transactions performed from January 1, 1994 are presented on the basis of their original amounts in Israeli currency. The term "Re-measured NIS" signifies the currency used for FASB 52 purposes, as described above. As to the effect of application of these rules - see (i) below. See also note 1q to the financial statements attached regarding new Israeli pronouncement that requires the discontinuance of adjustments for inflation as from January 1, 2004. b. Deferred income taxes Under Israeli GAAP, no deferred taxes are provided for in respect of certain long-lived (more than 20 years) assets, such as buildings and land. Under U.S. GAAP, in accordance with the provisions of FAS 109, income taxes are to be provided for any assets that have a different basis for financial reporting and income tax purposes. In addition, for U.S. GAAP purposes deferred taxes are to be provided for with respect to un-remitted earnings of investee companies. Under Israeli GAAP due to the Company's policy to hold its investments in investee companies, and not to realize them, these temporary differences are considered differences permanent in duration for which deferred taxes are not provided for. Through 1999, as long as the main investments of the Company were subsidiaries which were controlled by the Company, the Company did not provide for deferred taxes also for U.S. GAAP reporting purposes, since those differences were deemed to be not taxable due to the tax free inter-company dividend distribution law in Israel and tax planning on its behalf, accordingly. As from 2000, due to changes in certain of the Company's investments from subsidiaries to investee companies, deferred taxes were provided for any portion that arose from investee companies sources other than pre-1993 undistributed earnings (taking into account the Company's tax strategy). As to the effect of application of this treatment, see (i) below. c. Employee stock option plans Under Israeli GAAP, no compensation expenses are recorded in respect of employee stock options. Under U.S. GAAP, the Company accounts for employee stock based compensation using the intrinsic value-based model of accounting prescribed by Accounting Principles Board Opinion No. 25 "Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees" ("APB 25") and related interpretations. In accordance with FAS 123 - "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" ("FAS 123"), the Company discloses pro forma data assuming the Company had accounted for employee stock option grants using the fair value-based method defined in FAS 123. All of the Company's awards are considered to be variable awards; thus the difference between the price of the shares at each balance sheet date and the exercise price of such options is charged to income over the vesting period and is adjusted in subsequent periods up to the measurement date (exercise or expiration date). The amount of the difference is correspondingly presented as capital surplus. 52 Pro-forma disclosure Had compensation cost for the employee stock options plans, been determined based on the fair value at the grant date, consistent with the method of FAS 123, the Company's net income and earnings per share would have been changed to the pro - forma amounts indicated below: Year ended December 31 -------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ In thousands, except for per share data Net income, as reported under U.S. GAAP 38,469 54,624 49,876 Add (deduct): stock based employee compensation expense (income), included in reported net income, net of related tax effect 8,132 (1,066) (3,792) Deduct: stock based employee compensation expense determined under fair value method for all awards, net of related tax effects (4,055) (4,801) (1,522) ------ ------ Pro forma net income 42,546 48,757 44,562 ------ ------ Earnings per share - under U.S. GAAP: Basic - as reported 9.77 13.94 12.75 Basic - pro forma 10.80 12.44 11.39 Diluted - as reported 9.69 13.89 12.66 Diluted - pro forma 10.72 12.40 11.31 A summary of the status of the Company's plans as of December 31, 2003, 2002, and 2001 , and changes during the years ended on those dates, is presented below: 2003 2002 2001 -------------------------- ------------------------- ------------------------- Weighted Weighted Weighted average average average exercise exercise exercise Price Price Price Number NIS Number NIS Number NIS ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Options outstanding at beginning of year 333,916 147.27 333,916 184.52 104,163 85.02 Changes during the year: Granted - below market value 275,755 200.46 Exercised (116,175) 116.37 (46,002) 87.82 Expired (1,498) 98.62 ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- Options outstanding at 216,243 159.15 333,916 147.27 333,916 184.52 end of year ========== ========== ========== Options exercisable at year-end *70,518 179.53 58,161 99.67 58,161 92.91 ========== ========== ========== ========== Weighted average fair value of options granted during the year NIS **59.38 ========= 53 The quoted price of the Company's ordinary shares on December 31, 2003 was NIS 234.3 ($53.5). * Based upon the Company's share market value as of December 31, 2003, this reflects potentially 17,547 shares regarding the options exercisable at year-end. ** The fair value of the options granted is computed by the Black-scholes formula using the following assumptions: dividend yield of 0%; expected volatility of 30.5%; risk-free interest rate (linked to the Israeli CPI) of 4.5% and expected average life of 5-5.5 years. The following table summarizes information about options outstanding at December 31, 2003. Options outstanding ------------------------------------------------------------------- Number of Number options Range of outstanding at Average exercisable at Exercise December 31, remaining December 31, Prices 2003 contractual life 2003 ------ ---- ---------------- ---- NIS Years 93.07 48,575 2.5 137.09 23,493 2.8 23,493 148.97 48,575 3.5 200.73 47,025 1.5 47,025 200.73* 48,575* 4.5 216,243 3.0 70,518 ======= === ====== * The exercise price of this batch will be ultimately determined in July 2004, (see Note 6b(2) to the financial statements attached). If the exercise price of this batch was determined in December 31, 2003, it would have been NIS 200.73. 54 d. Earnings per share ("EPS") Israeli GAAP relating to computation of EPS is described in note 1P to the financial statements attached. The EPS computation according to U.S. GAAP presented below is in accordance with FAS 128. As applicable to the Company, the main difference between the two methods of EPS computation is that shares to be issued upon exercise of employee stock options (under SAR plans) are taken into account in the computation of basic EPS in Israel, whereas in the United States, in computing basic EPS, only the weighted average number of company shares actually outstanding in the reported period is taken into account, and shares to be issued upon exercise of options are included in the computation of diluted EPS. Another difference is the U.S. requirement for separate presentation - in the income statements - of basic and diluted EPS as long as they are not identical, while, in Israel, such separate presentation is only required if the difference between basic and diluted EPS is in excess of 5%. As to the effect of application of U.S. GAAP, see (i) below. Following are data relating to the weighted average number of shares for the purpose of computing basic and diluted earnings per share under U.S. GAAP: 2003 2002 2001 --------- --------- --------- Weighted average number of shares used in the computation of basic earnings per share 3,938,035 3,918,710 3,911,673 Net additional shares from the assumed exercise of employee stock options 31,673 14,570 28,713 --------- --------- --------- Weighted average number of shares used in the computation of diluted earnings per share 3,969,708 3,933,280 3,940,385 ========= ========= ========= e. Investment in marketable equity securities accounted for by the equity method (associated company) - Carmel Container Systems (Carmel) Under Israeli GAAP, an investment in an associated company is tested for impairment under the provisions of Israeli Standard No. 15 of the Israeli Accountant Standard Board - "Impairment of Assets" (see note 1g to the financial statements). Based on the provisions of this Standard, and as explained in note 2e to the financial statements, the Company determined that the recoverable value of this investment exceeds its carrying value (based, among other, on its Discounted Cash Flows), and accordingly, the investment was not written down. Under U.S. GAAP (APB 18 - "The Equity Method of Accounting for Investments in Common Stock") and SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin (SAB) No. 59 ("Accounting for Noncurrent Marketable Equity Securities"), a decline in value of investment in an associated company which is other than temporary is recognized as a realized loss, establishing a new carrying value for the investment. Factors considered in determining that a decline is other than temporary include, among other, the length of time and the extent to which the market value has been less than the carrying value of the investment. The relevant market value for determining the impairment loss is the market value at balance sheet date (it should be noted that the share price of Carmel rose by about 90% since December 31, 2003). 55 Therefore, although according to the Israeli GAAP the recoverable value of this investment exceeds its carrying value (see above) under U.S. GAAP and SEC rules described above, the decline in the market value of Carmel shares is the significant factor in determining other than temporary decline. Accordingly, for U.S.GAAP reporting, since the decline in the market value of Carmel is long and extensive, the Company reduced the carrying value of this investment to its market value as of December 31, 2003 and recorded an impairment loss amounting NIS 16,986,000 (see also share in profits of associated companies under U.S. GAAP in Item 3 above). f. Statements of income presentation Under Israeli GAAP, the Company included, in the statements of income for the year ended December 31, 2002 and 2003, under "other income (expenses)", in 2002 - loss from closure of facilities and disposal of assets and closing inventories and in 2003 - gain from sale of apartments. Under U.S. GAAP, the loss from inventories should be classified as part of cost of sales and loss from closure of facilities, disposal of assets and sale of apartments should be classified as part of operating income. These adjustments were included in the reconciliation to the U.S. GAAP (see operating income under U.S. GAAP in Item 3 above). g. Accounting for guarantees The Group's applies for U.S. GAAP purposes the provisions of FASB interpretation No. 45 "Guarantor's Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others " ("FIN 45"). All of the guarantees granted by the Company and its subsidiaries (see note 9 to the financial statements) were issued prior to December 31, 2002. h. Supplemental disclosure on employee rights upon retirement The Company and its subsidiaries expects to contribute in 2004 NIS 8,500 thousands to the provident funds and to the insurance companies in respect of its severance pay obligations. i. The effect of applying U.S. GAAP on the consolidated financial statements is as follows: 1) Consolidated statement of income figures: Year ended December 31 ------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ In thousands (except per share data) Net income, as reported according to Israeli GAAP 60,047 37,460 34,447 Effect of treatment of the following items in accordance with U.S. GAAP: Functional currency* 8,243 33,254 4,851 56 Year ended December 31 ------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ In thousands (except per share data) Deferred income taxes - net (4,703) (17,156) 6,786 Other then temporary impairment of an investment in an associated company (16,986) Applying APB 25 in respect of employee stock options: Gross amount (12,705) 1,667 5,925 Deferred taxes 4,573 (601) (2,133) ------ ------ ------ Net income under U.S. GAAP 38,469 54,624 49,876 ====== ====== ====== Earnings per share: Under Israeli GAAP - net income per NIS 1 of par value of shares - Primary** 1,494 947 873 ====== ====== ====== Under U.S. GAAP - per share: Basic 9.77 13.94 12.75 ====== ====== ====== Diluted 9.69 13.89 12.66 ====== ====== ====== * In 2002 and 2001 including exchange rate differences from the end of each of those years, to December 31, 2003. ** Each NIS 1 par value is composed of 100 ordinary shares of NIS 0.01 par value. 2) Shareholders' equity: December 31 -------------------------- 2003 2002 --------- --------- In thousands Shareholders' equity according to Israeli GAAP (614,230) (704,168) Effect of treatment of the following items in accordance with US GAAP: Functional currency 57,224 112,029 Other then temporary impairment of an investment in an associated company 16,986 Deferred income taxes (10,334) (10,464) --------- --------- Shareholders' equity under US GAAP (550,354) (602,675) ========= ========= 57 3) Consolidated balance sheet figures: December 31 --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 ----------------------------------- --------------------------------- Adjusted NIS Re-measured NIS Adjusted NIS Re-measured NIS ------------ --------------- ------------ --------------- In thousands --------------------------------------------------------------------------- As Reported Under As Reported Under Israeli GAAP Under U.S. GAAP Israeli GAAP Under U.S. GAAP ------------ --------------- ------------ --------------- Inventories 90,654 75,308 90,495 76,817 ======== ======== ======== ====== Investment in associated companies 383,879 366,376 366,156 373,878 ======== ======== ======== ======= Fixed assets - net 325,641 283,831 325,837 279,080 ======== ======== ======== ======= Deferred taxes - net (50,789) (41,024) (47,318) (37,526) ======== ======== ======== ========= Shareholders' equity ** (614,230) (550,354) (650,950) (602,675) ======== ======== ======== ========= ---------- ** In 2003 the Company distributed dividends in the amount of NIS 100,989,000. j. Statement of cash flows The Company presents its cash flow information, under Israeli GAAP net of the effects of inflation. The information to be included under US GAAP for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003 is presented below: 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------- ------- Adjusted NIS ------------------------------------- (In thousands) ------------------------------------- Net cash provided by operating activities 53,895 81,587 16,279 Net cash used in investing activities (32,261) (43,682) (32,667) Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 125,517 (47,901) (1,756) Effect of inflation on cash and cash equivalent 5,649 12,056 17,394 ------- ------- ------- Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 152,800 2,060 (750) Balance of cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 5,906 3,846 4,596 ------- ------- ------- Balance of cash and cash equivalents at end of year 158,706 5,906 3,846 ======= ===== ===== k. Reporting comprehensive Income In addition to net income, comprehensive income includes translation of foreign currency financial statements of an investee company, as follows: 58 Year Ended December 31 ---------------------- 2003 2002 ------ ------ Re-measured NIS in thousands ---------------------- Net income under U.S. GAAP 38,469 54,624 Differences from translation of foreign currency financial statements of an investee company (2,506) 2,424 ------ ------ Comprehensive income 35,963 57,048 ====== ====== As of December 31, 2003 the accumulated other comprehensive income aggregates (82) re-measured NIS, in thousands. l. Recently issued accounting pronouncement in the United States: 5) FIN 46 In January 2003, the FASB issued FASB Interpretation No. 46 "Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities" (FIN 46). Under this FIN entities are separated into two populations: (1) those for which voting interests are used to determine consolidation (this is the most common situation) and (2) those for which variable interests are used to determine consolidation. The FIN explains how to identify Variable Interest Entities (VIE) and how to determine when a business enterprise should include the assets, liabilities, no controlling interests, and results of activities of a VIE in its consolidated financial statements. In December 2003, the FASB revised FIN 46 ("FIN 46-R") by amending some of its provision and providing for new effective dates. The adoption of FIN 46 did not have a material effect on Company's consolidated financial statements. The Company believes that the expected adoption of FIN 46-R will not have a material effect on its consolidated financial statements. FAS 132 (revised 2003) In December 2003, the FASB issued SFAS No. 132 (revised 2003), "Employers' Disclosures about Pensions and Other Postretirement Benefits, an amendment of FASB Statements No. 87, 88 and 106, and a revision of FASB Statement No. 132 ("FAS 132 (revised 2003)") ". This Statement revises employers' disclosures about pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. It does not change the measurement or recognition of those plans. The new rules require additional disclosures about the assets, obligations, cash flows, and net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit pension plans and other postretirement benefit plans. Part of the new disclosures provisions are effective for 2003 calendar year-end financial statements, and accordingly have been applied by the company in these financial statements. The rest of the provisions of this Statement, which have a later effective date, are currently being evaluated by the company. 59 Schedule - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Three Years Ended December 31, 2003 (Adjusted NIS in thousands) Column A Column B Column C Column D Column E Balance at beginning Additions Balance at of period (reductions) Deductions end of period charged to expenses ----------------------- ---------------- --------------- ------------------- Allowance for doubtful accounts: Year ended December 31, 2003 12,752 944 -- 13,696 ======================= ================ =============== =================== Year ended December 31, 2002 11,538 1,230 (16) 12,752 ======================= ================ =============== =================== Year ended December 31, 2001 12,962 92 (1,516) 11,538 ======================= ================ =============== =================== Report of Independent Accountants on Financial Statement Schedule To the Board of Directors of American Israeli Paper Mills Limited. Our audits of the consolidated financial statements referred to in our report dated March 10, 2004, appearing in the 2003 annual report to the shareholders of American Israeli Paper Mills Limited also included an audit of Financial Statement Schedule - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts - listed in Item 18 on this Form 20-F. In our opinion, the Schedule presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with related consolidated financial statements. /s/ Kesselman & Kesselman Tel-Aviv, Israel Kesselman & Kesselman March 10, 2004 Certified Public Accountants (Isr.) 60 ITEM 19 - EXHIBITS (a) The following financial statements and supporting documents are filed with this report: (i) Consolidated Audited Financial Statements of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2003 (including reports of independent auditors of Kost, Forer, Gabbay and Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global, for TMM Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. and Barthelemi Holdings Ltd., of Bar-Lev, merrari, Geva & co. for EFFEH lanfill Ltd., of Mualem Glezer Inbar Junio & co. an affiliate of DFK International for M.M.M. Unaited Landfill Industries (1998) Ltd. and of Kost, Forer, Gabbay and Kasierer, a member of Ernst & Young Global, for Carmel Container Systems Ltd.). (ii) Financial statements of Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. for the year ended December 31, 2003. (iii) Financial statements of Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. for the year ended December 31, 2003. (iv) Report of independent accountants on Schedule on Valuation and Qualifying Accounts and Schedule. (v) Report of Independent auditors on reconciliation to U.S. GAAP. (b) Exhibits: 1.1* Memorandum of Association 1.2** Articles of Association 3.1*** Voting Agreement dated February 5, 1980 by and among Clal Industries Ltd., PEC Israel Economic Corporation and Discount Bank Investment Corporation Ltd. 8.1 List of subsidiaries 31.1 Certification of Active Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to ss. 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant toss.302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 32.1 Certification of Active Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C.ss.1350, as adopted pursuant toss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C.ss.1350, as adopted pursuant toss.906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. * Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 1987, file No. 1-4212, and incorporated by reference herein. ** Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2000, file No. 1-4212, filed with the SEC in June 2001 and incorporated by reference herein. *** Incorporated by reference to the exhibit number 3.1 in the Company's form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 1987. 61 SIGNATURES Pursuant to the requirement of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of] 1934, the registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and has duly caused this annual report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized. AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED By: /s/ Lea Katz ----------------------------- Name: Lea Katz Title: Corporate Secretary Dated: June 24, 2004 62 EXHIBIT INDEX 1.1* Memorandum of Association 1.2** Articles of Association 3.1*** Voting Agreement dated February 5, 1980 by and among Clal Industries Ltd., PEC Israel Economic Corporation and Discount Bank Investment Corporation Ltd. 8.1 List of subsidiaries 31.1 Certification of Active Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant to ss. 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 31.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 17 CFR 240.13a-14(a), as adopted pursuant toss.302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 32.1 Certification of Active Chief Executive Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C.ss.1350, as adopted pursuant toss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. 32.2 Certification of Chief Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C.ss.1350, as adopted pursuant toss.906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. * Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 1987, file No. 1-4212, and incorporated by reference herein. ** Previously filed as an exhibit to the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2000, file No. 1-4212, filed with the SEC in June 2001 and incorporated by reference herein. *** Incorporated by reference to the exhibit number 3.1 in the Company's form 20-F for the year ended AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED 2003 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED 2003 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS Page REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS 2 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS (NIS): Balance sheets 3-4 Statements of income 5 Statements of changes in shareholders' equity 6 Statements of cash flows 7-8 Notes to financial statements 9-39 SCHEDULE - DETAILS OF SUBSIDIARIES AND ASSOCIATED COMPANIES 40 --------------- ------------------------------- --------------- PricewaterhouseCoopers Kesselman & Kesselman Certified Public Accountants (Isr.) Trade Tower, 25 Hamered Street Tel Aviv 68125 Israel P.O Box 452 Tel Aviv 61003 Telephone +972-3-7954555 Facsimile +972-3-7954556 REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS To the shareholders of AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of American Israeli Paper Mills Limited (hereafter - the Company) and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the related consolidated statements of income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's board of directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the financial statements of certain associated companies, the Company's interest in which as reflected in the balance sheets as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 is adjusted NIS 299.3 million and adjusted NIS 285.2 million, respectively, and the Company's share in excess of profits over losses of which is a net amount of adjusted NIS 28.2 million, adjusted NIS 10.2 million and adjusted NIS 19.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. The financial statements of those companies were audited by other independent auditors whose reports have been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to amounts included for those companies, is based solely on the reports of the other independent auditors. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in Israel, including those prescribed by the Israeli Auditors (Mode of Performance) Regulations, 1973 and the auditing standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the Company's board of directors and management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits and the reports of the other independent auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of the other independent auditors, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the consolidated results of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted ("GAAP") in Israel. Furthermore, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above have been prepared in accordance with the Israeli Securities (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements) Regulations, 1993. As explained in note 1b, the financial statements referred to above are presented in values adjusted based on the changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar, in accordance with the pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. Tel-Aviv, Israel March 10, 2004 /s/ Kesselman & Kesselman 2 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS December 31 -------------------------- Note 2003 2002 ---- ---- ---- In thousands ---------------------------- A s s e t s 9 CURRENT ASSETS: 8 Cash and cash equivalents 1o 158,706 5,460 Short-term deposit 10a 20,000 Accounts receivable: 10b Trade 140,996 131,736 Other 128,246 131,890 Inventories 10c 90,654 90,495 --------- --------- T o t a l current assets 538,602 359,581 --------- --------- INVESTMENT AND LOAN TERM RECEIVALES: Investments in associated companies 2;8 383,879 366,156 Deferred income taxes 7g 3,885 --------- --------- 387,764 366,156 --------- --------- FIXED ASSETS: 3 Cost 953,656 930,563 L e s s - accumulated depreciation 628,015 604,726 --------- --------- 325,641 325,837 --------- --------- DEFERRED CHARGES, net of accumulated amortization 1h 1,267 549 --------- --------- T o t a l assets 1,253,274 1,052,123 ========= ========= ) Chairman of the ------------------------------------------- ) Board of Directors Yaki Yerushalmi ) ------------------------------------------- ) Director Zvika Livnat ) ------------------------------------------- ) Controller Israel Eldar Date of approval of the financial statements: March 10, 2004. 3 December 31 ------------------- Note 2003 2002 ---- ------------------- In thousands ------------------- Liabilities and shareholders' equity CURRENT LIABILITIES: 8 Credit from banks 10d 144,989 104,711 Current maturities of long-term notes 4b 6,590 6,214 Accounts payable and accruals: Trade 84,602 99,255 Other 10e 73,010 62,470 --------- --------- T o t a l current liabilities 309,191 272,650 --------- --------- LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: Deferred income taxes 7g 61,801 58,266 Loans and other liabilities (net of current maturities): 4;8 Loans from banks 355 Notes 233,039 37,366 Other liabilities 35,013 32,536 --------- --------- T o t a l long-term liabilities 329,853 128,523 --------- --------- COMMITMENTS 9 T o t a l liabilities 639,044 401,173 --------- --------- SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: 6 Share capital (ordinary shares of NIS 0.01 par value: 125,257 125,256 authorized - 20,000,000 shares; issued and paid: December 31, 2003 and 2002 - 3,968,295 and 3,918,710 shares, respectively) Capital surplus 90,060 90,060 Currency adjustments in respect of financial statements of associated companies (1,122) (3,482) Retained earnings 400,035 439,116 --------- --------- 614,230 650,950 --------- --------- T o t a l liabilities and shareholders' equity 1,253,274 1,052,123 ========= ========= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. 4 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS Note 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- In thousands ---------------------------------- SALES - net 10f;14 465,092 455,775 469,709 COST OF SALES 10g 362,185 363,771 383,824 ------- ------- ------- GROSS PROFIT 102,907 92,004 85,885 ------- ------- ------- SELLING, MARKETING, ADMINISTRATIVE AND GENERAL EXPENSES: 10h Selling and marketing 31,324 29,167 31,918 Administrative and general 24,999 26,382 33,441 ------- ------- ------- 56,323 55,549 65,359 ------- ------- ------- INCOME FROM ORDINARY OPERATIONS 46,584 36,455 20,526 FINANCIAL INCOME (EXPENSES) - net 10j (15,989) (2,988) 5,102 OTHER INCOME (EXPENSES) 10i 1,609 (2,942) 1,095 ------- ------- ------- INCOME BEFORE TAXES ON INCOME 32,204 30,525 26,723 TAXES ON INCOME 7 7,706 9,792 7,287 ------- ------- ------- INCOME FROM OPERATIONS OF THE COMPANY AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES 24,498 20,733 19,436 SHARE IN PROFITS OF ASSOCIATED COMPANIES - net 2 35,549 16,727 15,011 ------- ------- ------- NET INCOME FOR THE YEAR 60,047 37,460 34,447 ======= ======= ======= Adjusted NIS ---------------------------------- NET INCOME PER NIS 1 OF PAR VALUE OF SHARES 1p;11 1,494 947 873 ======= ======= ======= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. 5 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS Currency adjustments in respect of financial Share Capital statements of Retained capital surplus associated companies earnings Total ------- ------- -------------------- -------- ----- In thousands ------------------------------------------------------------------------- BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 2001 125,256 90,060 387,885 603,201 CHANGES IN 2001: Net income 34,447 34,447 Exercise of employee options into shares * * Currency adjustments in respect of financial statements of associated companies (3,175) (3,175) ------- ------ ------ ------- ------- BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2001 125,256 90,060 (3,175) 422,332 634,473 CHANGES IN 2002: Net income 37,460 37,460 Dividend paid (20,676) (20,676) Currency adjustments in respect of financial statements of associated companies (307) (307) ------- ------ ------ ------- ------- BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2002 125,256 90,060 (3,482) 439,116 650,950 CHANGES IN 2003: Net income 60,047 60,047 Dividend paid (99,128) (99,128) Exercise of employee options into shares 1 1 Currency adjustments in respect of financial statements of associated companies 2,360 2,360 ------- ------ ------ ------- ------- BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2003 125,257 90,060 (1,122) 400,035 614,230 ======= ====== ====== ======= ======= * Represents an amount less than adjusted NIS 1,000. The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. 6 (Continued) - 1 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- In thousands -------------------------------- CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income for the year 60,047 37,460 34,447 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities (*) (7,396) 39,718 (15,133) ------- ------- ------ Net cash provided by operating activities 52,651 77,178 19,314 ------- ------- ------ CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Purchase of fixed assets (29,247) (46,807) (30,031) Short-term deposit (20,000) Associated companies: Granting of loans (8,241) (3,302) (4,067) Collection of loans 21,895 2,464 Proceeds from sale of fixed assets 3,332 9,792 1,436 ------- ------- ------ Net cash used in investing activities (32,261) (40,380) (30,198) ------- ------- ------ CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Notes issuance, net of issuance expenses of NIS 800,000 198,909 Consideration in respect of the exercise of options by employees 1 Repayment of long-term loans from banks and others (762) (1,038) (1,069) Redemption of notes (6,770) (5,960) (6,696) Dividend paid (99,128) (20,676) Short-term credit from banks - net 40,606 (7,219) 17,955 ------- ------- ------ Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities 132,856 (34,893) 10,190 ------- ------- ------ INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 153,246 1,905 (694) BALANCE OF CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR 5,460 3,555 4,249 ------- ------- ------ BALANCE OF CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR 158,706 5,460 3,555 ======= ======= ====== 7 (Concluded) - 2 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- In thousands -------------------------------- (*) Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Income and expenses not involving cash flows: Share in profits of associated companies - net (35,549) (16,727) (15,011) Dividend received from associated company 16,391 21,852 Depreciation and amortization 28,247 26,809 29,363 Deferred income taxes - net 3,471 3,703 7,287 Capital losses (gains) on: Sale of fixed assets (2,054) (137) 22 Termination of activities and disposal of assets - net 1,345 Gain on issuance of shares in an associated company to a third party - net (1,095) Linkage and exchange differences on (erosion of) principal of long-term loans from banks - net 79 (17) (175) Linkage differences on (erosion of) principal of Notes 3,110 (524) (3,899) Erosion of (linkage differences on) principal of long-term loans to associated companies (1,101) 153 755 Appreciation (erosion) of a long-term capital note granted to an associated company 2,477 (2,202) (3,015) ------- ------- ------- 15,071 34,255 14,232 ------- ------- ------- Changes in operating asset and liability items: Decrease (increase) in trade receivables (9,260) (15,064) 24,101 Decrease (increase) in other receivables (8,935) 3,394 (120) Decrease (increase) in inventories (159) 22,060 (4,308) Increase (decrease) in trade payables (14,653) 11,180 (31,637) Increase (decrease) in other payables and accruals 10,540 (16,107) (17,401) ------- ------- ------- (22,467) 5,463 (29,365) ------- ------- ------- (7,396) 39,718 (15,133) ======= ======= ======= Supplementary cash flow information = cash paid during the year for: Taxes on income 11,553 26,711 8,801 ======= ======= ======= Interest 11,335 9,839 10,519 ======= ======= ======= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. 8 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The significant accounting policies, applied on a consistent basis, are as follows. As to the adoption for the first time in 2003 of the accounting for impairment of assets, see g. below: a. General: 1) Activities of the Group American Israeli Paper Mills Limited (hereafter - the Company) and its subsidiaries and associated companies (hereafter - the Group) are engaged in the production and sale of paper and paper products, including paper recycling activities and handling solid waste. Certain companies are engaged in the marketing of office supplies and in the sale of products produced by others (some of which are not paper or paper products). Most of the Group's sales are made to the local market (Israel). As to information by operating segments, see note 14. 2) Use of estimates in the preparation of financial statements The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the dates of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting years. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 3) Definitions: Subsidiaries - companies over which the Company has control and over 50% of the ownership, the financial statements of which have been consolidated with the financial statements of the Company. Associated companies - investee companies, which are not subsidiaries, over whose financial and operational policy the Company exerts material influence, the investment in which is presented by the equity method. Material influence is deemed to exist when the percentage of holding in said company is 20% or more, unless there are circumstances that contradict this assumption. Interested parties - as defined in the Israeli Securities (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements) Regulations, 1993. b. Adjusted financial statements: 1) The Company and its subsidiaries maintain their accounts in nominal new Israeli shekels ("NIS") and in U.S. dollars (hereafter - dollar). All the figures in the financial statements are presented in values adjusted for the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar (rather than the changes in the Israeli consumer price index; hereafter - Israeli CPI), as permitted by Opinion 36 of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel (hereafter - the Israeli Institute), for companies whose securities are traded on a foreign stock exchange; the Company's shares are traded on the American Stock Exchange ("AMEX"). As to the discontinuance of adjusting financial statements for the effects of inflation, with effect from January 1, 2004, see q. below. 9 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): The adjusted NIS data are the product of the data in dollar terms multiplied by the representative exchange rate of the dollar at December 31, 2003 - $1 = NIS 4.379 (see also note 8b). 2) Non-monetary balance sheet items (mainly fixed assets, inventories and deferred charges, and shareholders' equity items originating in cash flow from shareholders) have been adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar since the related transactions were carried out. The income statement components relating to these non-monetary balance sheet items have been adjusted on the same basis as the related balance sheet items. Investments in some of the associated companies (the activities of which are an integral part of the Company's activities) and the Company's share in their operating results have been determined based on their financial statements, which are adjusted on the basis of changes in the exchange rate of the dollar. As to associated companies the financial statements of which are adjusted on the basis of the changes in the Israeli CPI, see (4) below. The components of the statements of income (except financing) relating to transactions carried out in the reported year - sales, purchases, labor costs, etc. - have been adjusted on the basis of the exchange rates in effect on transaction dates. Financial income and expenses represent such income and expenses in real terms and the erosion of balances of monetary items during the year. 3) The amounts of non-monetary items do not necessarily represent realizable value or any other economic value, but only their original historical values adjusted on basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar. In these financial statements, the term "cost" signifies cost in adjusted NIS. 4) Associated companies whose financial statements are adjusted on the basis of the changes in the Israeli CPI For purposes of inclusion on the equity basis, the amounts included in the financial statements of the above associated companies operating independently were treated as follows: Balance sheet items at the end of the year and the results of operations for the year reflect the amounts presented in the financial statements of such companies. Balance sheet items at the beginning of the year and changes in shareholders' equity items during the year were adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar at the beginning of the year or at the date of each change, respectively, through the end of the year. Any differences resulting from the treatment described above were carried to the adjusted shareholders' equity under a separate item ("currency adjustments in respect of financial statements of associated companies"). AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): c. Principles of consolidation: 1) The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. A list of the main subsidiaries is presented in a schedule to the financial statements. 2) Intercompany transactions and balances, as well as intercompany profits on sales which have not yet been realized outside the Group, have been eliminated. d. Inventories Raw materials and supplies, finished goods, purchased products and maintenance and sundry stores are valued at the lower of cost or market (net of processing costs and after deduction of a provision for obsolescence, where appropriate); cost is determined on the moving average basis. e. Investments in associated companies: 1) The investments in these companies are accounted for by the equity method. 2) Profits on intercompany sales, not yet realized outside the Group, have been eliminated according to the percentage of the Company's holding in such companies. 3) With effect from the interim financial statements for the 3-month period ended March 31, 2003, the Company reviews whether any events have occurred or changes in circumstances have taken place, which might indicate that there has been an impairment of its investments in associated companies - see g. below. 4) The excess of cost of the investment in associated companies over the equity in net assets at time of acquisition ("excess of cost of investment") or the excess of equity in net assets of associated companies at time of acquisition over the cost of their acquisition ("negative excess of cost of investment") represent the amounts attributed to specific assets upon acquisition, at fair value. The excess of cost of investment and the negative excess of cost of investment are presented at their net amount and are amortized over the remaining useful life of the assets. The average rate of amortization is 10%. f. Fixed assets: 1) Fixed assets are stated at cost, net of related investment grants. 2) Fixed assets of own manufacture are stated at cost, based on the direct costs with the addition of an appropriate portion of related production costs. 3) Borrowing costs in respect of credit applied to finance the construction of the fixed assets - during the period until construction is completed - are charged to cost of such assets. 10 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): 4) The assets are depreciated by the straight-line method on basis of their estimated useful life, as follows: Years ----------------------- Buildings 10-50 (mainly 33) Machinery and equipment 7-20 (mainly 10 and 20) Vehicles 5-7 (mainly 7) Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 3-17 (mainly 4) g. Impairment in value of Long-Lived Assets In February 2003, Accounting Standard No. 15 of the Israeli Accounting Standard Board (hereafter - IASB) - "Impairment of Assets", became effective. This standard requires a periodic review to evaluate the need for a provision for the impairment of the company's non-monetary assets - mainly fixed assets as well as investments in associated companies. Accordingly, commencing with the interim financial statements for the 3-month period ended March 31, 2003, the Company assesses - at each balance sheet date - whether any events have occurred or changes in circumstances have taken place, which might indicate that there has been an impairment of one or more of the above assets. When such indicators of impairment are present, the Company evaluates whether the carrying value of the asset . The recoverable value of an asset is determined according to the higher of the net selling price of the asset or its value in use to the Company. The value in use is determined according to the present value of anticipated cash flows from the continued use of the asset, including those expected at the time of its future retirement and disposal. When it is not possible to assess whether an impairment provision is required for a particular asset on its own, the need for such a provision is assessed in relation to the recoverable value of the cash generating unit to which that asset belongs. Through December 31, 2002, the Company and its subsidiaries applied the provisions for assessing and recording impairment of assets, prescribed by the U.S. standard, FAS 121. The adoption of Standard 15 for the first time has not had any effect on the Company and its subsidiaries. AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): h. Deferred charges The item represents notes issuance costs, which are amortized over the period of the notes (see note 4b). i. Deferred income taxes: 1) Deferred taxes are computed in respect of differences between the amounts presented in these statements and those taken into account for tax purposes. As to the main factors in respect of which deferred taxes have been included - see note 7g. Deferred tax balances are computed at the tax rate expected to be in effect at time of release to income from the deferred tax accounts. The amount of deferred taxes presented in the income statements reflects changes in the above balances during the reporting years. 2) Taxes which would apply in the event of disposal of investments in subsidiaries and associated companies have not been taken into account in computing the deferred taxes, as the Company intends to hold these investments, not to realize them. 3) The Group may incur an additional tax liability in the event of intercompany dividend distribution derived from "approved enterprises" profits - see note 7a. No account was taken of this additional tax, since it is the Group's policy not to cause distribution of dividend which would involve an additional tax liability to the Group in the foreseeable future. j. Revenue recognition Revenue from sale of products to the local market, net of discounts granted, is recognized upon shipment to the customer (which represents the point at which the title transfers). Revenue from sale of products for export, net of discounts, is recognized as the products are delivered to the customer in the target country. k. Shipping and handling fees costs Shipping and handling costs are classified as component of selling and marketing expenses. l. Advertising expenses Advertising expenses are charged to income as incurred (as to the amount of the expenses, see note 10h). m. Allowance for doubtful accounts The allowance is determined mainly in respect of specific debts doubtful of collection (see note 13b). 11 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): n. Derivative financial instruments Gains or losses on and cash flows from derivatives that are hedging existing assets or liabilities are recognized in income and cash flows statements and cash flows statements commensurate with the results from those assets or liabilities. o. Cash equivalents The Group considers all highly liquid investments, which include short-term bank deposits that are not restricted as to withdrawal or use, the period to maturity of which did not exceed three months at time of deposit, to be cash equivalents. p. Net income per NIS 1 of par value of shares Net income per NIS 1 of par value of shares is computed in accordance with Opinion 55 of the Israeli Institute; as to the data used in the per share computation - see note 11. q. Recently issued pronouncement In October 2001, the IASB issued Israel Accounting Standard No. 12 - "Discontinuance of Adjusting Financial Statements for Inflation", which provided for the discontinuance of adjusting financial statements for the effects of inflation, as of January 1, 2003. In December 2002, Accounting Standard No. 17 was issued that postponed the date from which Accounting Standard No. 12 is to be applied until January 1, 2004. Since the Company's financial statements are drawn up in NIS adjusted for the changes in the dollar (as allowed by section 29(b) of Opinion 36 of the Israeli Institute), and based on the provisions in paragraph 4 to Israeli Accounting Standard No. 13, with effect from January 1, 2004, the Company will no longer be able to measure its operations in dollars, and will have to resume measuring its operations in NIS. The inflation-adjusted NIS amounts as of December 31, 2003, as presented in these financial statements, will be the base for the nominal-historical financial reporting as of January 1, 2004. The implementation of Standard No. 12 will mainly affect the financial income and expenses items. NOTE 2 - INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES: a. The Company has a number of investments in associated companies, which are held either directly or through associated companies. The financial statements of significant associated companies (Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. and Hogla-Kimberly Ltd.) are attached to these financial statements. 12 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 2 - INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES (continued): b. Composed as follows: December 31 ------------------ 2003 2002 ---- ---- Adjusted NIS in thousands ------------------ Cost: Shares 54,241 54,241 Excess of cost of investment - net 2,086 2,086 L e s s - accumulated amortization (3,068) (3,375) Gain on issuance of shares of an associated company to a third party 40,241 40,241 Currency adjustments (1,122) (3,482) Share in profits accumulated since acquisition - net 246,864 228,013 ------- ------- 339,242 317,724 Long-term loans and capital notes (December 31, 2002 - net of current maturities)* 44,637 48,432 ------- ------- 383,879 366,156 ======= ======= * Classified by linkage terms, the total amounts of the loans and capital notes are as follows: December 31 --------------------- 2003 2002 ---- ---- Adjusted NIS in thousands --------------------- Linked to the dollar 21,897 43,790 Linked to the Israeli CPI 10,553 8,790 Unlinked capital note 12,187 4,610 ------ ------ 44,637 57,190 L e s s - current maturities 8,758 ------ ------ 44,637 48,432 ====== ====== These loans and capital notes do not bear interest. As of December 31, 2003, the repayment dates of the balance of the loans and capital notes have not yet been determined. 13 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 2 - INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES (continued): c. The changes in the investments during 2003 are as follows: Adjusted NIS in thousands ------------ Balance at beginning of year 366,156 Changes during the year: Share in profits of associated companies - net 35,549 Dividend received from an associated company (16,391) Currency adjustments 2,360 Decrease in balance of long-term loans and capital notes - net (3,795) ------- Balance at end of year 383,879 ======= d. Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. (hereafter - N.H.P.) N.H.P. is held to the extent of 49.9% by the Company and also by Neusiedler AG (hereafter - Neusiedler), under an agreement dated November 21, 1999. According to said agreement, N.H.P. purchased the Group's activities in the field of printing and writing paper, and issued to Neusiedler 50.1% of its shares. As part of the said agreement, Neusiedler was granted an option (commencing 3 years from the signing of the agreement) to sell to the Company its holdings in N.H.P., at a price which is 20% lower than the value (as defined in the agreement). The understanding between the parties is that the option would only be exercised under continued extraordinary circumstances that preclude the operation of N.H.P. in Israel. The Company believes that the likelihood of such circumstances is very remote. e. Investment in Carmel Container Systems Limited (hereafter - Carmel) The investment in shares includes, as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, an investment of adjusted NIS 29,475,000 and adjusted NIS 28,717,000, respectively, investment in Carmel, which is held to the extent of 26.25%. Carmel's shares are traded in the United States on the "AMEX" Stock Exchange. The market value of the Company's holding in these shares as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 is adjusted NIS 9,656,000. The financial statements of Carmel are drawn up on the basis of historical cost, adjusted for the changes in the general purchasing power of Israeli currency measured on the basis of the Israeli CPI. For purposes of inclusion in these financial statements, Carmel's financial statements were adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar. 14 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 2 - INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES (continued): The Company's management believes that the low market value of these shares is not representative of the economic value, as the trade in Carmel's shares is very weak. At the beginning of 2003, the Company used the services of an outside appraiser in determining the value in use to the Company. The Company's management believes, based on the abovementioned and current developments in 2003, that the investment should not be written down. f. Investment in T.M.M Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. (hereafter - T.M.M.) In 2000, the Company and Compagnie Generale D'Entreprises Automobiles (hereafter - CGEA), an international French group in the field of environmental services - through a jointly held company (Barthelemi Holdings Ltd., in which the Company holds 33.9% interest; hereafter - Barthelemi) - acquired shares of T.M.M. from its controlling shareholders. In addition, T.M.M was merged with Amnir Industries and Environmental Services Ltd. (in which the Company and CGEA held 49% and 51%, respectively; hereafter - Amnir Environment) in such a manner that Amnir Environment became a wholly-owned subsidiary of T.M.M. In August 2003, Barthelemi acquired approximately 7% of the share capital of T.M.M off the stock exchange. As of December 31, 2003, the Company's share in T.M.M. (directly and through Barthelemi) aggregates 41.6%. The excess of equity in net assets of T.M.M. shares, over the cost of investment therein - adjusted NIS 1,581,000 is amortized over a period of ten years. The amount invested in shares includes adjusted NIS 15,759,000 (December 31, 2002 - adjusted NIS 15,567,000), which was directly invested in T.M.M. (17.8%), the shares of which are traded on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange; the market value of these shares aggregates adjusted NIS 13,713,000 as of December 31, 2003 (December 31, 2002 - adjusted NIS 7,300,000). The Company's management examined the value of its investment in T.M.M. for impairment which is not temporary in nature. At the beginning of 2003, the Company used the services of an outside appraiser in determining the value in use to the Company. The Company's management believes, based on the abovementioned and current developments in 2003, that the investment should not be written down. 15 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 3 - FIXED ASSETS: a. Composition of assets, grouped by major classifications, and changes therein during 2003, are as follows: Cost -------------------------------------------------------- Balance at Additions Retirements Balance at beginning during during end of of year the year the year year ---------- --------- ----------- ---------- Adjusted NIS in thousands -------------------------------------------------------- Land and buildings on the land 182,205 3,534 64 185,675 Machinery and equipment 643,549 11,619 1,962 653,206 Vehicles 33,102 2,886 4,128 31,860 Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 64,185 1,384 65,569 Payments on account of machinery and equipment 7,522 9,824 17,346 ------- ------ ----- ------- 930,563 29,247 6,154 953,656 ======= ====== ===== ======= Accumulated depreciation -------------------------------------------------------- Depreciated balance Balance at Additions Retirements Balance at ------------------- beginning during during end of December 31 of year the year the year year 2003 2002 ---------- --------- ----------- ---------- ---- ---- Adjusted NIS Adjusted NIS in thousands in thousands -------------------------------------------------------- ------------------- Land and buildings on the land 100,760 3,477 104,237 81,438 81,445 Machinery and equipment 432,181 18,873 1,528 449,526 203,680 211,368 Vehicles 23,003 2,702 3,348 22,357 9,503 10,099 Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 48,782 3,113 51,895 13,674 15,403 Payments on account of machinery and equipment 17,346 7,522 ------- ------ ----- ------- ------- ------- 604,726 28,165 4,876 628,015 325,641 325,837 ======= ====== ===== ======= ======= ======= 16 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 3 - FIXED ASSETS (continued): b. December 31 --------------------- 2003 2002 ---- ---- Adjusted NIS in thousands --------------------- The item is net of investment grants in respect of investments in "approved enterprises" (see notes 7a and 9a): Cost 490 490 Accumulated depreciation 459 458 c. The Group's real estate is partly owned and partly leased - to the extent of adjusted NIS 44.5 million, in respect of which lease fees of approximately adjusted NIS 25.8 million have been capitalized. The leasehold rights are for 49-year periods ending in the years 2008 to 2059, with options to extend for an additional 49 years. d. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, the cost of fixed assets includes borrowing costs of adjusted NIS 1,007,000 capitalized to the cost of machinery and equipment. e. Depreciation expenses amounted to adjusted NIS 28,165,000, adjusted NIS 26,726,000 and adjusted NIS 29,278,000, for the years ended December 31, 2003, 2002 and 2001, respectively. f. As to pledges on assets - see note 9a. NOTE 4 - LONG-TERM LOANS AND OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: a. Loans from banks: Composed as follows: December 31 ---------------------- 2003 2002 ---- ---- Adjusted NIS in thousands ---------------------- Linked to the Israeli CPI* 372 1,056 L e s s - current maturities 372 701 --- ----- -,- 355 === ===== * The weighted average annual interest rate as of December 31, 2003 is 4.9%. 17 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 4 - LONG-TERM LOANS AND OTHER LONG-TERM LIABILITIES (continued): b. Notes The item represents two series of notes issued to institutional investors as follows: December 31 ---------------------------- 2003 2002 ------------------ ------ Adjusted NIS in thousands ---------------------------- Series II Series I ----------- ---------------- Balance 200,000 39,629 43,580 L e s s - current maturities 6,590 6,214 ------- ------ ------ 200,000 33,039 37,366 ======= ====== ====== (1) Series I - May 1992 The balance of the notes as of December 31, 2003 is redeemable in six installments, due in June of each of the years 2004-2009, each installment amounting to 6.66% of the original par value of the notes, which is adjusted NIS 98,925,000; the unpaid balance of the notes bears annual interest of 3.8%, payable each June. The notes - principal and interest - are linked to the Israeli CPI of February 1992. (2) Series II - December 2003 In December 2003, the Company made a private issuance to institutional investors of notes with a par value of NIS 200 million. The notes are redeemable in seven equal annual installments, due in December of each of the years 2007-2013. The unpaid balance of the notes bears annual interest of 5.65%, payable in annual installments at December of each year. The notes - principal and interest - are linked to the Israeli CPI of November 2003. c. Other liabilities: December 31 ------------------------- 2003 2002 ---- ---- Adjusted NIS in thousands ------------------------- Capital note to an associated company (1) 32,770 30,293 Other liability (2) 2,243 2,243 ------ ------ 35,013 32,536 ====== ====== (1) The capital note is unlinked and interest free. No repayment date has been fixed, but the associated company does not intend to demand the repayment of the capital note before January 1, 2005. (2) The loan was received from a supplier in 2000, to finance acquisition of machinery and equipment in the amount of adjusted NIS 2,409,000. The loan is linked to the dollar. No repayment date has yet been fixed. The Company believes that the repayment is not probable before January 1, 2005. 18 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 5 - EMPLOYEE RIGHTS UPON RETIREMENT: a. Israeli labor laws and agreements require the company and its subsidiaries to pay severance pay to employees dismissed or leaving their employ under certain circumstances, computed on the basis of the number of years of service and, generally, the latest pay rate (one month's pay for each year of service) or a pension upon retirement. To cover the liability for employee rights upon retirement, pursuant to labor agreements in force and based on salary components which, in management's opinion, create entitlement to severance pay, deposits are made by the Company and its subsidiaries with various provident funds (including pension funds) or insurance policies for the benefit of employees. The severance pay and pension liability and the amounts funded as above are not reflected in the financial statements, as the pension and severance pay risks have been irrevocably transferred to the pension funds and the insurance companies, as allowed by the Severance Pay Law. b. The expenses relating to employee rights upon retirement, which reflect the amounts that were deposited during the reported years with provident funds, pension funds and various insurance policies, are adjusted NIS 8,515,000, adjusted NIS 5,786,000 and adjusted NIS 6,315,000 in 2003, 2002, and 2001, respectively. NOTE 6 - SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: a. Share capital Composed of ordinary registered shares of NIS 0.01 par value, as follows: December 31 ------------------------ 2003 2002 ---- ---- Authorized Issued and paid ---------- --------------- Number of shares 20,000,000 3,968,295 3,918,710 ========== ========= ========= Amount in NIS 200,000 39,683 39,187 ========== ========= ========= The shares are traded on stock exchanges in Tel-Aviv and in the U.S. The quoted prices per share, as of December 31, 2003 are NIS 239 and $ 53.5 (NIS 234.3), respectively. b. Employee stock option plans: 1) The 1998 plan for senior officers in the Group On January 11, 1998, the board of directors approved a stock option plan for senior officers in the Group ("the 1998 plan for senior officers"). 19 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 6 - SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (continued): In 2000, 1999 and 1998, 51,330, 51,335 and 52,833 options, respectively, were granted under the 1998 plan for senior officers (including 10,667 options in 2000 and 1999 and 10,666 options in 1998, to an employee who is an interested party). All together, 155,498 options were granted. The exercise price of the options granted as above, was fixed at NIS 134.38. The exercise price is linked to the dollar and is subject to adjustments in respect of the distribution of dividends by the Company. Each batch can be exercised within three years after two years from the date of grant. Notwithstanding the above, the number of shares resulted from exercise of the options and the actual exercise price were fixed as follows: Upon the receipt of an exercise request from an option holder, a computation was made of the difference between the quoted price of the Company's shares at the beginning of that trading day and the exercise price; that difference was then multiplied by the number of exercisable options (hereafter - the benefit). The number of shares that the Company actually issued to the option holder was the number of shares the market value of which was equal to the amount of the benefit computed as above. In consideration for the shares, the option holder paid their par value only. The ordinary shares issued upon exercise of the options conferred upon their holders the same rights as all other ordinary shares, upon issuance. In 2003, 2001 and 2000, 56,663, 46,002 and 51,335 options, respectively, were exercised under the 1998 plan for senior officers. 28,693, 28,149 and 35,990 shares of NIS 0.01 were issued following the exercise, respectively. The unexercised balance of 1,498 options granted expired in 2003. The above plan was carried out according to the principles set out in Section 102 of the Income Tax Ordinance, which stipulates, inter-alia, the terms for recognition of the expense to the Company and for determining the employees' tax liability in respect of the profits attributed thereto as benefits arising from the above plan. The aforementioned expense is recognized in the tax year that the benefit is credited to the employee. 20 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 6 - SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (continued): b. Employee stock option plans (continued): 2) The 2001 plan for senior officers in the Group On April 2, 2001, the Company's board of directors approved a stock option plan for senior officers in the Group (hereafter - the 2001 plan for senior officers). Under this plan, 194,300 options were allotted on July 5, 2001 without consideration. Each option is exercisable in purchase of one ordinary share of NIS 0.01 par value of the Company. The options will be exercisable in four equal annual batches. The blocking period of the first batch is two years, commencing on the date of grant; the blocking period of the second batch is three years from the date of grant, and so forth. Each batch is exercisable within two years from the end of the blocking period. The exercise price of the options granted as above was set at NIS 217.00, linked to the CPI, on the basis of the CPI as of April 2, 2001. The exercise price for each batch is determined as the lesser of the aforementioned exercise price or the average price of the Company's shares as quoted on the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange (hereafter - the Stock Exchange) during thirty trading days preceding to the effective date of each batch, less 10%. As stipulated by the 2001 plan for senior officers, the exercise price is to be adjusted, following dividend distributions. Accordingly, the exercise price as of December 31, 2003 is adjusted NIS 200.73 for the first batch, adjusted NIS 93.07 for the second batch and adjusted NIS 148.97 for the third batch and adjusted NIS 200.73 for the fourth batch. The quoted price of the Company's shares on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange close to the time of the board of directors' resolution to grant the options, was NIS 204.00. Prior to the granting of the options, the price was NIS 185.8. The fair value of each option - computed on the basis of the Black-Scholes option-pricing model - as prescribed by the regulations of the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange - was approximately adjusted NIS 56.69 on the date of grant. Notwithstanding the above, the number of shares resulting from exercise of the options and the actual exercise price will be determined as follows: when an exercise request is received from an option holder, a computation will be made of the difference between the quoted price of the Company's shares at the beginning of that trading day and the exercise price; that difference is to be multiplied by the number of exercisable options, as of the date of the exercise (hereafter - the benefit). The number of shares that the Company will actually issue to the option holder will be the number of shares the market value of which is equal to the amount of the benefit computed as above. In consideration for the shares, the option holder will pay their par value only. The ordinary shares issued upon exercise of the options will confer upon their holders the same rights as all other ordinary shares, upon issuance. In 2003, 1,550 options were exercised under the 2001 plan for senior officers. 227 shares of NIS 0.01 were issued following the exercise. The unexercised balance of the options granted is 192,750. 21 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 6 - SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (continued): The above plan is carried out according to the principles set out in Section 102 of the Income Tax Ordinance, which stipulates, inter-alia, the terms for recognition of the expense to the Company and for determining the employees' tax liability in respect of the profits attributed thereto as benefits arising from the above plan. The aforementioned expense will be recognized in the tax year that the benefit is credited to the employee. 3) The 2001 employee plan On August 29, 2001, the Company's board of directors approved a stock option plan for employees in the Group, according to a specification (hereafter - the 2001 employee plan). Under this plan, up to 125,000 options will be allotted without consideration. Each option is exercisable in purchase of one ordinary share of NIS 0.01 par value of the Company. The blocking period of the options is two years from the date of grant. Each option is exercisable within three years from the end of the blocking period. On November 4, 2001, 81,455 options were granted under the 2001 employee plan. The exercise price of all the options granted as above was set at NIS 160.99, linked to the CPI, on the basis of the CPI as of August 29, 2001. This price represents the average price of the Company's shares as quoted on the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange during thirty trading days prior to the date of the board of directors' approval, less 10%. As stipulated by the 2001 employee plan, the exercise price has been adjusted, following a dividend distribution and is adjusted NIS 137.09 as of December 31, 2003. The quoted price of the Company's shares on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange close to the time of the board of directors' resolution to grant the options, was NIS 171.20. Prior to the granting of the options, the price was NIS 138.80. The fair value of each option - computed on the basis of the Black-Scholes option-pricing model - as prescribed by the regulations of the Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange - was approximately adjusted NIS 64.11 on the date of grant. Notwithstanding the above, the number of shares resulting from exercise of the options and the actual exercise price will be fixed as follows: when an exercise request is received from an option holder, a computation will be made of the difference between the quoted price of the Company's shares at the beginning of that trading day and the exercise price; that difference is to be multiplied by the number of exercisable options, as of the date of the exercise (hereafter - the benefit). The number of shares the that Company will actually issue to the option holder will be the number of shares the market value of which is equal to the amount of the benefit computed as above. In consideration for the shares, the option holder will pay their par value only. The ordinary shares issued upon exercise of the options will confer upon their holders the same rights as all other ordinary shares, upon issuance. 22 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 6 - SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (continued): In 2003, 57,962 options were exercised under the 2001 employee plan. 20,665 shares of NIS 0.01 were issued following the exercise. The unexercised balance of the options granted is 23,493. The above plan is carried out according to the principles set out in Section 102 of the Income Tax Ordinance, which stipulates, inter-alia, the terms for recognition of the expense to the Company and for determining the employees' tax liability in respect of the profits attributed thereto as benefits arising from the above plan. The aforementioned expense will be recognized in the tax year that the benefit is credited to the employee. NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME: a. Tax benefits under the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959 (hereafter - the law) Under the law, by virtue of the "approved enterprise" status granted to certain of their production facilities, certain subsidiaries are entitled to various tax benefits (mainly reduced tax rates). During the period of benefits - mainly 7 years commencing in the first year in which the companies earn taxable income from the approved enterprises, provided the maximum period to which it is restricted by law has not elapsed - reduced tax rates or exemption from tax apply, as follows: 1) Corporate tax rate of 25%, instead of the regular tax rate (see d. below). 2) Tax exemption on income from certain approved enterprises in respect of which the companies have elected the "alternative benefits" (involving waiver of government guaranteed loans); the length of the exemption period is 4 years, after which the income from these enterprises is taxable at the rate of 25% for 3 years. The part of the taxable income which is entitled to the tax benefits is determined on the basis of the ratio of the turnover attributed to the "approved enterprise" to the total turnover of these companies, taking into account the ratio of the "approved enterprise" assets to total assets of these companies. The turnover that is attributed to the "approved enterprise" is generally computed on the basis of the ratio of the increase in turnover to the "basic" turnover stipulated in the instrument of approval. The period of benefits in respect of the "approved enterprises" of these companies expired at the end of 2003. The entitlement to the above benefits is conditional upon the companies' fulfilling the conditions stipulated by the law, regulations published thereunder and the instruments of approval for the specific investments in "approved enterprises". In the event of failure to comply with these conditions, the benefits may be cancelled and the companies may be required to refund the amount of the benefits, in whole or in part, with the addition of linkage differences to the CPI and interest. 23 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): b. Measurement of results for tax purposes under the Income Tax (Inflationary Adjustments) Law, 1985 (hereafter - the inflationary adjustments law) Under the inflationary adjustments law, results for tax purposes are measured in real terms, having regard to the changes in the Israeli CPI. The Israeli companies in the Group are taxed under this law. As stated in note 1b, the financial statements are drawn up in NIS adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar. The difference between the change in the Israeli CPI and the change in the exchange rate of the dollar - on an annual and cumulative basis - creates differences between the taxable income and the income reflected in the financial statements. c. The Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxation), 1969 The Company and certain subsidiaries are "industrial companies" as defined by this law. These companies claimed, depreciation at accelerated rates on equipment used in industrial activity as stipulated by regulations published under the inflationary adjustments law. The Company files consolidated tax returns with certain subsidiaries. d. Tax rates applicable to income not derived from "approved enterprises" Income not eligible for the approved enterprise benefits mentioned in a. above is taxed at the regular rate - 36%. e. Reform of the Israeli tax system In 2003, the provisions of the Amendment to the Income Tax Ordinance (No. 132), 2002 (hereafter - the tax reform law) came into effect. The tax reform law comprehensively reforms certain parts of the Israeli tax system. Certain provisions of the tax reform law and anticipated supplementary provisions will only be applied from later dates. In accordance with the provisions of the tax reform law, as from January 1, 2003, capital gains will be taxed at a reduced rate of 25%, instead of the regular rate of 36% at which they were taxed until the aforementioned date; with regard to the sale of assets acquired prior to January 1, 2003, the reduced tax rate will be applicable only for the gain allocated to capital gains earned after the implementation of that law, which will be calculated as prescribed by the tax reform law. Furthermore, the tax reform law stipulates that carryforward capital losses may be utilized against capital gains without any time restriction (the time limitation for the utilization has been removed in respect of capital losses which arose in the tax year 1996 and thereafter). f. Carryforward tax losses Carryforward tax losses of certain subsidiaries are adjusted NIS 14,002,000 and adjusted NIS 12,198,000 as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively. Under the inflationary adjustments law, carryforward losses are linked to the Israeli CPI, and may be utilized indefinitely. 24 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): g. Deferred income taxes The composition of the deferred taxes, and the changes therein during 2003 and 2002, are as follows: Among Among As a current non-current non-current assets (1) assets (2) liability (3) Total ---------- ---------- ------------- ----- Adjusted NIS in thousands -------------------------------------------------------- Balance at January 1, 2002 (9,261) 52,876 43,615 Changes in 2002 - amounts carried to income (1,687) 5,390 3,703 ------ ------ ------ ------ Balance at December 31, 2002 (10,948) 58,266 47,318 Changes in 2003: Reclassification 3,885 (3,885) Amounts carried to income (64) 3,535 3,471 ------ ------ ------ ------ Balance at December 31, 2003 (7,127) (3,885) 61,801 50,789 ====== ====== ====== ====== (1) In respect of inventories and provisions for doubtful accounts, vacation and recreation pay and carryforward tax losses. (2) In respect of carryforward tax losses. (3) Mainly in respect of depreciable fixed assets. The deferred taxes are computed at the rate of 36%. h. Taxes on income included in the income statements: 1) As follows*: 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- Adjusted NIS in thousands For the reported year: Current 4,235 4,702 Deferred, see g. above 3,471 3,703 7,287 ----- ----- ----- 7,706 8,405 7,287 For prior years - current 1,387 ----- ----- ----- 7,706 9,792 7,287 * The tax expenses, for all reported years, originate in Israel. 25 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): 2) Following is a reconciliation of the "theoretical" tax expense, assuming all income is taxed at the regular rate, as stated in d. above, and the actual tax expense: 2003 2002 2001 ------------------- -------------------- ------------------- Adjusted Adjusted Adjusted NIS in NIS in NIS in % thousands % thousands % thousands --- --------- --- --------- --- --------- Income before taxes on income, as reported in the statements of income 100.0 32,204 100.0 30,525 100.0 26,723 ===== ====== ===== ====== ===== ====== Theoretical tax on the above amount 36.0 11,593 36.0 10,989 36.0 9,620 Tax benefits arising from reduced tax rate for approved enterprises (1.5) (487) (1.0) (305) (1.2) (327) ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ------ 34.5 11,106 35.0 10,684 34.8 9,293 Increase in taxes resulting from computation of deferred taxes at a rate which is different from the theoretical rate 0.9 230 Tax deduction in respect of options exercised by employees according to section 102 of the Israeli Income Tax Ordinance (5.0) (1,607) (6.2) (1,883) (14.5) (3,884) Other - net (5.6) (1,793) (1.3) (396) 6.1 1,648 ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ------ Taxes on income for the reported year 23.9 7,706 27.5 8,405 27.3 7,287 ----- ------ ----- ------ ----- ------ i. Tax assessments The Company and most of its subsidiaries have received final tax assessments through the year ended December 31, 2000. 26 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 8 - LINKAGE TERMS OF MONETARY BALANCES: a. As follows: December 31, 2003 December 31, 2002 ---------------------------- ---------------------------- In, or linked Linked In, or linked Linked to, foreign to the to, foreign to the currency Israeli currency Israeli (mainly dollar) CPI Unlinked (mainly dollar) CPI Unlinked ------ ------- ------- ------ ------ ------- Adjusted NIS in thousands Adjusted NIS in thousands ---------------------------- ---------------------------- Assets: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 8,561 150,145 2,833 2,627 Short-term deposit 20,000 Receivables 48,457 215 210,560 48,865 191,629 Investments in associated companies - long-term loans (2002 - including current maturities) 21,897 10,553 12,187 43,790 8,790 4,610 ------ ------- ------- ------ ------ ------- 78,915 10,768 392,892 95,488 8,790 198,866 ====== ======= ======= ====== ====== ======= Liabilities: Current liabilities: Short-term credit from banks 144,617 24,872 79,138 Accounts payables and accruals 11,579 146,033 3,184 158,541 Long-term liabilities (including current maturities): Loans from banks 372 1,056 Notes 239,629 43,580 Other liabilities 2,243 32,770 2,243 30,293 ------ ------- ------- ------ ------ ------- 13,822 240,001 323,420 30,299 44,636 267,972 ====== ======= ======= ====== ====== ======= As to exposures relating to fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates and the use of derivatives for hedging purposes - see note 13a. 27 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 8 - LINKAGE TERMS OF MONETARY BALANCES (continued): b. Data regarding the exchange rate and the Israeli CPI: Exchange rate of one dollar CPI* ---------- ---- NIS Points At end of year: 2003 4.379 178.6 2002 4.737 182.0 2001 4.416 170.9 2000 4.041 168.5 Change in the year: 2003 (7.6%) (1.9%) 2002 7.3% 6.5% 2001 9.3% 1.4% * Based on the index for the month ending on each balance sheet date, on the basis of 1993 average = 100. NOTE 9 - COMMITMENTS AND LIABILITIES SECURED BY PLEDGES: a. In respect of investment grants Under the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959, certain subsidiaries and an associated company have received investment grants from the State of Israel. In the event of failure to comply with the terms attached to the receipt of the grants, the companies may be required to refund the amount of the grants, in whole or in part, with linkage differences and interest from the date of receipt. The abovementioned subsidiaries have registered floating charges on all their assets in favor of the State of Israel as security for compliance with the terms of the investment grants received. In respect of the grant received by the associated company, the Company has provided a guarantee, with another associated company, for the repayment of the grant. As of December 31, 2003, the guarantee amounts to adjusted NIS 491,000. b. In 1996, an associated company received a grant amounting to adjusted NIS 2,067,000 from the Fund for Preparation for Exposure of the Ministry of Industry and Trade. With respect to this grant, the Company has provided a bank guarantee of adjusted NIS 2,018,000 in favor of the State of Israel. c. The Company has provided guarantees of adjusted NIS 2,189,000 in favor of an associated company, in connection with the latter's participation in a tender. If the associated company does not win the tender, the guarantee will become null and void. d. A subsidiary has provided a guarantee of adjusted NIS 1,291,000 to a bank in respect of a loan extended to an associated company. 28 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 9 - COMMITMENTS AND LIABILITIES SECURED BY PLEDGES (continued): e. On May 7, 2001, the Company's board of directors resolved to carry out a plan, which was approved by the shareholders' meeting, to remunerate the Company's chairman of the board of directors. According to the plan, a remuneration will be granted, equal to the increase in the value of 50,000 shares of the Company in the period from May 7, 2001 (share price - NIS 194.37, linked to the terms of the plan) to May 7, 2008. The remuneration will be spread over the period commencing two years from the resolution of the board of directors, until the end of seven years from said resolution. As of December 31, 2003 one quarter of the remuneration is exercisable. A liability was included in the financial statements in respect of the above plan, under current liabilities. NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION: Balance sheets: a. Short-term deposit The deposit is for a period of one year, unlinked, and bears annual interest (payable monthly) at the rate of 5.5%. December 31 ------------------ 2003 2002 ------- ------- Adjusted NIS in thousands ------------------ b. Receivables: 1) Trade: Open accounts 128,021 119,927 Checks collectible 12,975 11,809 ------- ------- 140,996 131,736 The item is: Net of allowance for doubtful accounts 13,696 12,752 Includes associated companies 26,594 19,863 2) Other: Employees and employee institutions 3,060 2,336 Associated companies ( 2002 - including current maturities) 89,691 96,047 Prepaid expenses 2,883 3,427 Advances to suppliers 9,365 7,214 Deferred income taxes, see note 7g 7,127 10,948 Income tax authority 12,005 6,235 Interest receivable 257 19 Sundry 3,858 5,664 ------- ------- 128,246 131,890 ======= ======= c. Inventories: For industrial activities: Finished goods 14,819 13,168 Raw materials and supplies 10,426 10,387 ------- ------- 25,245 23,555 For commercial activities - purchased products 18,817 20,810 ------- ------- 44,062 44,365 Maintenance and sundry stores 46,592 46,130 ------- ------- 90,654 90,495 ======= ======= 29 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): d. Credit from banks: 1) As follows: December 31 ------------------ 2003 2002 ------- ------- Adjusted NIS in thousands ------------------ Short-term credit 144,617 104,010 Current maturities of long-term loans, see note 4a 372 701 ------- ------- 144,989 104,711 ======= ======= 2) Classified by currency of repayment, linkage terms and interest rates, the amounts of short-term credit from banks are as follows: Weighted average interest rate at December 31 December 31, ------------------ 2003 2003 2002 ------- ------- ------- % Adjusted NIS - in thousands ------- ------- Unlinked 6.0 144,617 79,138 In dollars 24,872 ------- ------- 144,617 104,010 ======= ======= e. Accounts payable and accruals - other: December 31 ---------------- 2003 2002 ------ ------ Adjusted NIS in thousands ---------------- Payroll and related expenses 37,324 30,628 Institutions in respect of employees 12,944 11,320 Customs and value added tax authorities 728 1,262 Associated company 521 469 Accrued interest 2,127 953 Accrued expenses 7,825 5,728 Sundry 11,541 12,110 ------ ------ 73,010 62,470 ====== ====== 30 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): Statements of income: 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------- ------- Adjusted NIS in thousands -------------------------------- f. Sales - net (1): Industrial activities (2) 326,825 310,628 312,751 Commercial activities 138,267 145,147 156,958 ------- ------- ------- 465,092 455,775 469,709 ======= ======= ======= (1) Including sales to associated companies 115,505 104,864 114,345 ======= ======= ======= (2) Including sales to export 44,175 40,645 26,044 ======= ======= ======= g. Cost of sales: Industrial activities: Materials consumed 72,292 61,649 69,267 Payroll and related expenses 85,419 78,903 93,195 Depreciation 22,739 21,182 22,807 Other manufacturing costs 80,709 77,765 89,330 Decrease (increase) in inventory of finished goods (1,651) 12,585 (7,019) ------- ------- ------- 259,508 252,084 267,580 Commercial activities - cost of products sold 102,677 111,687 116,244 ------- ------- ------- 362,185 363,771 383,824 ======= ======= ======= Including purchases from associated companies 26,374 29,423 32,036 ======= ======= ======= h. Selling, marketing, administrative and general expenses: Selling and marketing: Payroll and related expenses 15,225 14,692 16,986 Packaging, transport and shipping 5,719 5,689 5,842 Advertising 872 Commissions 2,733 1,605 902 Depreciation 1,595 1,659 1,410 Other 6,052 5,522 5,906 ------- ------- ------- 31,324 29,167 31,918 ======= ======= ======= Administrative and general: Payroll and related expenses 36,360 31,927 38,166 Office supplies, rent and maintenance 1,938 1,750 2,526 Professional fees 486 1,010 1,174 Depreciation 2,814 3,884 4,865 Doubtful accounts and bad debts 944 1,791 766 Other 5,858 10,148 8,830 ------- ------- ------- 48,400 50,510 56,327 Less - rent and participation from associated companies 23,401 24,128 22,886 ------- ------- ------- 24,999 26,382 33,441 ======= ======= ======= 31 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): 2003 2002 2001 ----- ------ ----- Adjusted NIS in thousands -------------------------- i. Other income (expenses): From the sale of apartments (1) 1,609 From termination of an activity and disposal of assets(2) (2,942) From the issuance of shares of an associated company to a third party 1,095 ----- ------ ----- 1,609 (2,942) 1,095 ===== ====== ===== 1) In 2003, the Company sold apartments that it previously held for the use of its employees. 2) In 2002, the Company terminated operations at some of its sites, as follows: a) At the Molett site in Nahariya, the operation of the old household paper machine was terminated, following the introduction of a new tissue machine by Hogla-Kimberly Ltd., an associated company. Subsequently, the old paper machine was sold to a third party (overseas). b) In order to comply with the requirements of the Ministry of Environment, the operation of the old paper machines at the Shafir site in Tel-Aviv were terminated. The termination included dismissal of employees, sale of maintenance stores, sale of the machines to a third party (overseas) and other related costs (including closing inventories). c) The Company sold real estate that it owned in Ashdod. The effects of the restructuring resulting from the termination of the operations are as follows: 2002 ----- Adjusted NIS in thousands ----- Severance pay expenses (2,334) Other expenses, net of sale proceeds (4,475) Gain on sale of real estate in Ashdod 3,867 ----- (2,942) ====== 32 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------ ----- Adjusted NIS in thousands ------------------------------- j. Financial income (expenses) - net*: Expenses: In respect of long-term loans - net 1,607 In respect of notes - including amortization of deferred charges 5,031 1,291 Erosion of operating monetary balances, net of related hedges 2,289 1,502 In respect of short-term balances - net (2002 -net of borrowing costs capitalized to the cost of fixed assets) 16,917 1,506 ------- ------ ----- 23,555 5,086 1,502 ------- ------ ----- Income: In respect of long-term loans - net 2,098 2,290 In respect of notes - including amortization of deferred charges 1,892 In respect of increase in value of operating monetary balances, net of related hedges 7,566 In respect of short-term balances - net 2,422 ------- ------ ----- 7,566 2,098 6,604 ------- ------ ----- (15,989) (2,988) 5,102 ======= ====== ===== * Including financial income (expenses) in respect of loans to associated companies (1,376) 2,207 2,260 ======= ====== ===== NOTE 11 - NET INCOME PER NIS 1 OF PAR VALUE OF SHARES: a. The weighted average par value of shares used in computation of per share data is as follows: NIS --- Year ended December 31: 2003 40,197 ====== 2002 39,557 ====== 2001 39,474 ====== b. In the reported years, plans for granting stock options to employees in the Group were taken into account in computing per share data, having regard to the quoted price of the Company's share at the end of each year. 33 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 12 - INTERESTED PARTIES - TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES: a. Transactions: 1) Income (expenses): 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------- Adjusted NIS in thousands ------------------------------ Sales 38,715 36,030 35,469 ====== ====== ======= Costs and expenses (7,009) (6,038) (14,373) ====== ====== ======= The amounts presented above represent transactions that the Company carried out in the ordinary course of business with interested parties (companies which are held by the Company's principal shareholder), at terms and prices similar to those applicable to non-affiliated customers and suppliers. 2) Benefits to interested parties: 2003 2002 2001 ------ ----- ----- Payroll to interested parties employed by the Company - adjusted NIS in thousands *3,364 2,000 1,699 ====== ===== ===== Number of people to whom the benefits relate 2 1 1 ====== ===== ===== Remuneration of directors who are not employed by the Company - adjusted NIS in thousands 444 324 477 ====== ===== ===== Number of people to whom the benefits relate 13 9 11 ====== ===== ===== * In 2003, includes the Chief Executive Officer (hereafter - CEO) payroll (who was appointed in April 2003), in addition to the payroll of the Chairman of the Board of Directors (who served earlier as the CEO). 3) In 2003, 2001 and 2000, an interested party employed by the Company exercised 15,999, 5,334 and 10,666 options, respectively, granted to him under the 1998 plan for senior officers, into 8,529, 3,263 and 7,476 shares, respectively, of NIS 0.01 par value each, upon payment of their par value. 4) As to the plan for the remuneration of the Company's Chairman of the Board of Directors - see note 9e. 34 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 12 - INTERESTED PARTIES - TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES (continued): b. Balances with interested parties: December 31 ---------------- 2003 2002 ------ ----- Adjusted NIS in thousands ---------------- Accounts receivable - commercial activity* 10,440 8,942 ====== ===== Accounts payables and accruals 2,430 88 ====== ===== * There were no significant changes in the balance during the year. NOTE 13 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT: a. Derivative financial instruments The Company has only limited involvement with derivative financial instruments. The Company uses these instruments as hedges. The Company utilizes derivatives, mainly forward exchange contracts and currency options, to protect its dollar cash flows in respect of existing assets and liabilities. As the counter-parties to these derivatives are Israeli banks, the Company considers the inherent credit risks remote. As at December 31, 2003 and 2002, there are no balances in respect of transactions in derivative financial instruments. In January 2004, the Company entered into a forward transaction for a period of one year, in order to hedge an amount of adjusted NIS 200 million against increases in the Israeli CPI. b. Credit risks The Company and its subsidiaries' cash and cash equivalents and the short-term deposit as of December 31, 2003 are deposited mainly with major Israeli banks or with foreign banks controlled by those Israeli banks. The Company and its subsidiaries considers the credit risks in respect of these balances to be remote. Most of these companies sales are made in Israel, to a large number of customers. The exposure to credit risks relating to trade receivables is limited due to the relatively large number of customers. The Group performs ongoing credit evaluations of its customers to determine the required amount of allowance for doubtful accounts. An appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts is included in the financial statements. 35 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 13 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT (continued): c. Fair value of financial instruments The fair value of the financial instruments included in working capital of the Group is usually identical or close to their carrying value. The fair value of loans and other liabilities also approximates the carrying value, since they bear interest at rates close to the prevailing market rates, except as described below. The Company does not disclose the fair value of long-term loans and capital notes included under investments in associated companies as of December 31, 2003, aggregating adjusted NIS 44,637,000 (see note 2b) and of a capital note to an associated company in the amount of adjusted NIS 32,770,000 (see note 4c(1)), since their value cannot be reliably determined so long as they have no repayment dates. NOTE 14 - SEGMENT INFORMATION: a. Activities of the Company and its subsidiaries: 1) Manufacturing and marketing of paper and paper products (packaging and household paper), including collection and recycling of paper waste. The manufacturing of paper relies mainly on paper waste as raw material. 2) Marketing of office supplies and paper, mainly to institutions. Most of the Group's sales are to the local market (Israel) and of its assets are located in Israel. 36 AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 14 - SEGMENT INFORMATION (continued): b. Business segment data: Paper and recycling Marketing of office supplies --------------------------------- -------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- Adjusted NIS in thousands ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Sales - net(1) 332,124 314,636 316,375 132,968 141,139 153,334 ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= Income (loss) from ordinary operations 46,282 37,488 21,646 302 (1,033) (1,120) ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= Financial income (expenses), net Other income (expenses) Income before taxes on income Segment assets (at end of year) 497,811 482,833 478,144 59,480 65,234 67,774 Unallocated assets (at end of year) (2) Consolidated total assets (at end of year) Segment liabilities (at end of year) 58,906 66,325 58,034 25,696 32,930 30,041 Unallocated liabilities (at end of year) Consolidated total liabilities (at end of year) Depreciation and amortization 25,523 24,422 27,068 2,724 2,387 2,295 ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= (1) Represents sales to external customers. (2) Including investments in associated companies. Total --------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 --------- --------- ------- Adjusted NIS in thousands --------- --------- ------- Sales - net(1) 465,092 455,775 469,709 ========= ========= ======= Income (loss) from ordinary operations 46,584 36,455 20,526 Financial income (expenses), net (15,989) (2,988) 5,102 Other income (expenses) 1,609 (2,942) 1,095 --------- --------- --------- Income before taxes on income 32,204 30,525 26,723 ========= ========= ========= Segment assets (at end of year) 557,291 548,067 545,918 Unallocated assets (at end of year) (2) 695,983 504,056 506,224 --------- --------- --------- Consolidated total assets (at end of year) 1,253,274 1,052,123 1,052,142 ========= ========= ========= Segment liabilities (at end of year) 84,602 99,255 88,075 Unallocated liabilities (at end of year) 554,442 301,918 329,594 --------- --------- --------- Consolidated total liabilities (at end of year) 639,044 401,173 417,669 ========= ========= ========= Depreciation and amortization 28,247 26,809 29,363 ========= ========= ========= (1) Represents sales to external customers. (2) Including investments in associated companies. --------------- ------------------------------- --------------- 37 Schedule AMERICAN ISRAELI PAPER MILLS LIMITED Details of Subsidiaries and Associated Companies At December 31, 2003 Percentage of direct and indirect holding in shares conferring equity and voting rights -------------------------- % ----- Main subsidiaries: Amnir Recycling Industries Limited 100.00 Graffiti Office Supplies and Paper Marketing Ltd. 100.00 Attar Marketing Office Supplies Ltd. 100.00 American Israeli Paper Mills Paper Industry (1995) Ltd. 100.00 Main associated companies: Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. 49.90 Subsidiaries of Hogla-Kimberly Ltd.: Hogla-Kimberly Marketing Limited 49.90 Molett Marketing Limited 49.90 Shikma Ltd. 49.90 Ovisan Sihhi Bez Sanai Ve Ticavet A.S 49.90 Hogla-Kimberly Holdings A.S 49.90 H-K Overseas (Holland) B.V 49.90 Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. 49.90 Subsidiaries of Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd.: Grafinir Paper Marketing Ltd. 49.90 Yavnir (1999) Ltd. 49.90 Neusiedler Hadera Paper Marketing (1999) Ltd. 49.90 Mitrani Paper Marketing 2000 (1998) Ltd. 49.90 Carmel Container Systems Limited 26.25 C.D. Packaging Systems Limited* 63.20 Barthelemi Holdings Ltd. 33.91 T.M.M. Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd.** 41.60 * C.D. Packaging Systems Limited is partly held through Carmel Container Systems Limited (an associated company); the holding in voting shares of C.D. Packaging Systems Limited is 63.05%. ** T.M.M Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. is partly held directly and partly through Barthelemi Holdings Ltd. 38 [AIPM LOGO] Meizer street Industrial Zone, P.O. Box 142 Hadera 38101, Israel Tel: 972-4-6349402 Fax: 972-4-6339740 E-Mail: chq@aipm.co.il Enclosed please find the financial reports of the following associated companies: - Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. - Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. The financial report of the following associated companies are not included: - Carmel Containers Systems Ltd., according to section 44(c) of the Securities (Periodic and Immediate Reports) Regulations. - TMM Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd., a reporting corporation. [LOGO][LOGO] NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) 2003 ANNUAL REPORT NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) 2003 ANNUAL REPORT TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS 2 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS - OF THE COMPANY AND CONSOLIDATED - IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS (NIS): Balance sheets 3-4 Statements of income (loss) 5 Statements of changes in shareholders' equity 6 Statements of cash flows 7-9 Notes to financial statements 10-35 APPENDIX - DETAILS OF INVESTEE COMPANIES 36 -------------------- ----------------------------- -------------------- PricewaterhouseCoopers Kesselman & Kesselman Certified Public Accountants (Isr.) Trade Tower, 25 Hamered Street Tel Aviv 68125 Israel P.O Box 452 Tel Aviv 61003 Telephone +972-3-7954555 Facsimile +972-3-7954556 REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS To the shareholders of NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. We have audited the financial statements of Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. (hereafter - the Company) and the consolidated financial statements of the Company and its subsidiaries: balance sheets as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the related statements of income (loss), changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's board of directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in Israel, including those prescribed by the Israeli Auditors (Mode of Performance) Regulations, 1973, and the auditing standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the Company's board of directors and management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audits, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position - of the Company and consolidated - as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the results of operations, the changes in shareholders' equity and the cash flows - of the Company and consolidated - for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in Israel. Furthermore, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above are prepared in accordance with the Israeli Securities (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements) Regulations, 1993. As explained in note 1b, the financial statements referred to above are presented in values adjusted for the changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. Tel-Aviv, Israel March 10, 2004 /s/ Kesselman & Kesselman 2 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) BALANCE SHEETS IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY -------------------- -------------------- DECEMBER 31 DECEMBER 31 -------------------- -------------------- NOTE 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------- ------- ------- ------- IN THOUSANDS ---------------------------------------------- ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS: 8 Cash and cash equivalents 1l 31,678 49,089 20,034 45,629 Accounts receivable: 10a Trade 147,748 154,995 2,811 American Israeli Paper Mills Limited and its subsidiaries - net 1a(3) 134,659 70,559 Subsidiaries 8,815 Other 11,296 12,796 13,458 13,732 Inventories 10b 89,231 79,698 62,650 64,595 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total current assets 279,953 296,578 230,801 206,141 ------- ------- ------- ------- INVESTMENT IN INVESTEE COMPANIES 2 6,932 7,505 ------- ------- FIXED ASSETS: 3 Cost 132,692 124,815 127,617 118,802 Less - accumulated depreciation 25,381 17,993 22,701 15,611 ------- ------- ------- ------- 107,311 106,822 104,916 103,191 ------- ------- ------- ------- GOODWILL, net of accumulated amortization 4,423 5,049 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total assets 391,687 408,449 342,649 316,837 ======= ======= ======= ======= Date of approval of the financial statements: March 10, 2004 /s/ GUNTHER HASSLER ) ------------------------------------------- GUNTHER HASSLER ) CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS /s/ YAKI YERUSHALM ) ------------------------------------------- YAKI YERUSHALMI ) VICE CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS /s/ ELIAZ AMAR ) ------------------------------------------- ELIAZ AMAR ) CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER 3 CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ----------------------- ----------------------- DECEMBER 31 DECEMBER 31 ----------------------- ----------------------- NOTE 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------- ------- ------- ------ IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------------------------ LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY CURRENT LIABILITIES: 8 Credit from banks 10c 15,108 14,670 15,108 14,652 Current maturities of long-term capital note 5 17,516 17,516 Accounts payable and accruals: 10d Trade - open accounts 104,097 76,650 53,397 44,771 American Israeli Paper Mills Limited and its subsidiaries - net 1a(3) 52,968 54,685 Subsidiaries 52,671 Other 12,682 19,933 12,049 12,863 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total current liabilities 184,855 183,454 133,225 89,802 ------- ------- ------- ------- LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: Loans from bank 4 51,725 71,837 51,725 71,837 Capital notes from shareholders (2002 - net of current maturities) 5 43,790 70,064 43,790 70,064 Deferred income taxes 7e 29,247 19,557 29,247 19,574 Excess of losses of subsidiaries over the investments therein 2 2,592 2,058 Liability for employee rights upon retirement 6 145 131 145 96 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total long-term liabilities 124,907 161,589 127,499 63,629 ------- ------- ------- ------- COMMITMENTS 9 ------- ------- ------- ------- Total liabilities 309,762 345,043 260,724 253,431 ------- ------- ------- ------- SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: Share capital (ordinary shares of NIS 1 par value: authorized - 38,000 shares; issued and paid - 1,000 shares) 1 1 1 1 Capital surplus 43,352 43,352 43,352 43,352 Retained earnings 38,572 20,053 38,572 20,053 ------- ------- ------- ------ 81,925 63,406 81,925 63,406 ------- ------- ------- ------ Total liabilities and shareholders' equity 391,687 408,449 342,649 316,837 ======= ======= ======= ======= THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 4 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) STATEMENTS OF INCOME (LOSS) IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ---------------------------------- -------------------------------- NOTE 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- SALES - net 10e 642,140 575,607 557,576 462,654 421,413 398,150 COST OF SALES 10f 556,890 *489,962 *505,476 391,492 *359,129 *369,944 ------- --------- -------- ------- --------- -------- GROSS PROFIT 85,250 85,645 52,100 71,162 62,284 28,206 ------- --------- -------- ------- --------- -------- SELLING, MARKETING, ADMINISTRATIVE AND GENERAL EXPENSES: 10g Selling and marketing 42,892 *42,481 *40,418 32,330 *26,747 *25,189 Administrative and general 8,640 10,321 9,671 6,065 4,335 4,272 ------- --------- -------- ------- --------- -------- 51,532 52,802 50,089 38,395 31,082 29,461 ------- --------- -------- ------- --------- -------- INCOME (LOSS) FROM ORDINARY OPERATIONS 33,718 32,843 2,011 32,767 31,202 (1,255) FINANCIAL EXPENSES - net 10h 4,681 5,232 13,115 2,713 4,387 11,615 ------- --------- -------- ------- --------- -------- INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE TAXES ON INCOME 29,037 27,611 (11,104) 30,054 26,815 (12,870) TAXES ON INCOME (TAX BENEFIT) 7 10,518 11,534 (3,272) 10,275 9,800 (3,299) ------- --------- -------- ------- --------- -------- INCOME (LOSS) AFTER TAXES ON INCOME 18,519 16,077 (7,832) 19,779 17,015 (9,571) SHARE IN PROFITS (LOSSES) OF INVESTEE COMPANIES, net 2 (369) (1,260) (938) 1,370 ------- --------- -------- ------- --------- -------- NET INCOME (LOSS) FOR THE YEAR 18,519 16,077 (8,201) 18,519 16,077 (8,201) ======= ========= ======== ======= ========= ======== ADJUSTED NIS NET INCOME (LOSS) PER NIS 1 OF PAR VALUE OF SHARES 1m 18,519 16,077 (8,201) 18,519 16,077 (8,201) ======= ========= ======== ======= ========= ======== * Reclassified. THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 5 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS SHARE CAPITAL ------------------- CAPITAL RETAINED NUMBER OF AMOUNT SURPLUS EARNINGS TOTAL SHARES ------- ------- ------ ------- ----- IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------------- BALANCE AT JANUARY 1, 2001 1,000 1 43,352 12,177 55,530 CHANGES DURING 2001 - loss (8,201) (8,201) ----- ------ ------ ------ ------ BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2001 1,000 1 43,352 3,976 47,329 CHANGES DURING 2002 - net income 16,077 16,077 ----- ------ ------ ------ ------ BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2002 1,000 1 43,352 20,053 63,406 CHANGES DURING 2003 - net income 18,519 18,519 ----- ------ ------ ------ ------ BALANCE AT DECEMBER 31, 2003 1,000 1 43,352 38,572 81,925 ===== ====== ====== ====== ====== THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 6 (Continued) - 1 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS IN ADJUSTED NEW ISRAELI SHEKELS CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY --------------------------------- -------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------------------------------------------- CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Net income (loss) for the year 18,519 16,077 (8,201) 18,519 16,077 (8,201) Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities (a) 37,698 31,659 55,377 29,887 26,772 51,770 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Net cash provided by operating activities 56,217 47,736 47,176 48,406 42,849 43,569 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES: Acquisition of a subsidiary consolidated for the first time (b) (2,208) (2,208) Purchase of fixed assets (9,339) (16,305) (12,746) (9,339) (16,086) (11,714) Proceeds from sale of fixed assets 635 800 101 244 357 19 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Net cash used in investing activities (8,704) (15,505) (14,853) (9,095) (15,729) (13,903) ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES: Repayment of long-term loans (21,116) (7,266) (21,116) (7,266) Repayment of long-term capital notes from shareholders (43,790) (43,790) Short-term credit from banks - net (18) (4,147) (5,257) (4,646) ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Net cash used in financing activities (64,924) (11,413) (5,257) (64,906) (7,266) (4,646) ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS (17,411) 20,818 27,066 (25,595) 19,854 25,020 BALANCE OF CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE BEGINNING OF YEAR 49,089 28,271 1,205 45,629 25,775 755 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ BALANCE OF CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT END OF YEAR 31,678 49,089 28,271 20,034 45,629 25,775 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== 7 (Continued) - 2 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS IN ADJUSTED ISRAELI SHEKELS CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY --------------------------------- ---------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ IN THOUSANDS (EXCEPT PER SHARE DATA) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- (A) ADJUSTMENTS TO RECONCILE NET INCOME (LOSS) TO NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES: Income and expenses not involving cash flows: Share in losses (profits) of investee companies - net 369 1,260 938 (1,370) Depreciation and amortization 8,626 8,077 6,501 7,252 6,484 5,156 Deferred income taxes - net 10,438 11,483 (2,538) 10,275 9,893 (2,572) Liability for employee rights upon retirement 14 5 (6) 49 19 (5) Capital losses (gains) on sale of fixed assets - net 215 84 189 118 37 (8) Linkage differences on (erosion of) long-term bank loans 1,460 (134) (2,138) 1,460 (134) (2,138) Erosion of (linkage differences on) long-term loans to investee company 112 (153) 14 180 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 20,753 19,515 2,489 20,261 17,251 (757) ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Changes in operating assets and liabilities: Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable: Trade 7,247 (696) 22,674 2,811 (2,455) 165 American Israeli Paper Mills Limited and its subsidiaries - net (41,232) (29,326) Subsidiaries 33,473 104,264 Other 752 9,025 (1,678) (328) 7,983 (2,213) Decrease (increase) in inventories (9,533) 13,010 61,105 1,945 5,744 42,191 Increase (decrease) in accounts payable and accruals: Trade 27,447 6,043 (3,953) 8,626 1,716 6,106 American Israeli Paper Mills Limited and its subsidiaries - net (1,717) (18,799) (18,479) (64,100) (65,388) Subsidiaries 61,486 Other (7,251) 3,561 (6,781) (814) 4,292 (3,272) ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 16,945 12,144 52,888 9,626 9,521 52,527 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 37,698 31,659 55,377 29,887 26,772 51,770 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== 8 (Concluded) - 3 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS IN ADJUSTED ISRAELI SHEKELS CONSOLIDATED AND THE COMPANY --------------- 2001 --------------- IN THOUSANDS --------------- (b) ACQUISITION OF A SUBSIDIARY CONSOLIDATED FOR THE FIRST TIME: Fair value of assets and liabilities acquired, at acquisition date: Working capital deficiency (excluding cash and cash equivalents) - net 3,887 Fixed assets (1,228) Liability for employee rights upon retirement 51 Deferred income taxes - net (2,142) Investment in the associated company at acquisition date* 2,087 Goodwill arising on acquisition** (6,141) ------ (3,486) Less - amount recorded against debit balance of the former shareholder, see supplementary information (2) below 1,278 ------ (2,208) ====== * See note 2a(2). ** Including goodwill balance at acquisition date. CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ------------------------------ ------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- IN THOUSANDS SUPPLEMENTARY CASH FLOW INFORMATION: Interest paid 3,757 3,582 4,664 3,757 3,582 4,664 ===== ===== ===== ===== ===== ===== Income taxes paid - net (480) 164 666 513 ===== ===== ===== ===== SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION ON INVESTING AND FINANCING ACTIVITIES NOT INVOLVING CASH FLOWS: 1) In July 2001, the long-term shareholders' loans were converted into capital notes. This conversion is not reflected among financing activities. 2) On April 1, 2001 the Company increased its holdings in the associated company, from 33.3% to 100%. Part of the consideration - adjusted NIS 1,278,000 - which was recorded against debit balance of the former shareholder (which is included among the current account of subsidiaries as of December 31, 2001), is not reflected among investing activities. THE ACCOMPANYING NOTES ARE AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS. 9 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: The significant accounting policies, applied on a consistent basis, are as follows. As to the adoption for the first time in 2003 of the accounting for impairment of assets, see k. below. a. GENERAL: 1) Incorporation and operations Neusiedler Hadera Paper Ltd. (hereafter - the Company) was incorporated and commenced operations on January 1, 2000. The Company and its subsidiaries (hereafter - the Group), are engaged in the production and sale of paper and paper products - mainly in Israel, see also note 13. Effective as of January 1, 2003, as part of a change in the organizational structure of the Group, all marketing and selling activities were transferred to one subsidiary with three logistics sites. In the past, the Group's operations in marketing were executed by four subsidiaries. Accordingly, those subsidiaries' employees are now employed by the Company and its inventories were transferred to the remaining subsidiary. Those subsidiaries continued operating in 2003,mainly for collecting old debts. As to agreements with AIPM (see (3) below), see note 11a(2). 2) Use of estimates in the preparation of financial statements The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at balance sheet date and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported year. Actual results could differ from those estimates. 3) Definitions: The ultimate parent company - Anglo American Plc. Subsidiaries - companies over which the Company has control and over 50% of the ownership, the financial statements of which have been consolidated with the financial statements of the Company. The associated company - Miterani Paper Marketing 2000 (1998) Ltd.. Investee companies - subsidiaries and the associated company. Shareholders - Neusiedler AG and American Israeli Paper Mills Limited (hereafter - AIPM) which hold 50.1% and 49.9% of the Company's share capital, respectively. Interested parties - as defined in the Israeli Securities (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements) Regulations, 1993. 10 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): Affiliated company - companies in which AIPM exerts material influence. Material influence is deemed to exist when the percentage of holding in said company is 20% or more, unless there are circumstances that contradict this assumption. Goodwill - the difference between the cost of investment in an investee company and the Company's share in the fair value of its net underlying assets at time of acquisition, net of applicable taxes. B. ADJUSTED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: 1) The Company and its subsidiaries maintain their accounts in nominal new Israeli shekels ("NIS") and in U.S. dollars ("dollars"). All figures in the financial statements are presented in NIS adjusted for the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar (rather than the changes in the Israeli consumer price index; hereafter - Israeli CPI). As for discontinuance of adjusting financial statements for the effects of inflation, with effect from January 1, 2004, see also o. hereafter. The adjusted NIS data are the product of the data in dollar terms, multiplied by the representative exchange rate of the dollar at December 31, 2003 - $1 = NIS 4.379 (see also note 8b). Condensed nominal Israeli currency data of the Company are presented in note 14. 2) Non-monetary balance sheet items have been adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar since the related transactions were carried out. The income statement components relating to these non-monetary balance sheet items have been adjusted on the same basis as the related balance sheet items. The investment in the associated company and the Company's share in its operating results have been determined based on its financial statements, adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar. Income statement components (except financing) relating to transactions carried out in the reported year - sales, purchases, labour costs, etc. - have been adjusted on the basis of the exchange rates in effect on transaction dates. Financial income and expenses represent such income and expenses in real terms and the erosion of balances of monetary items during the year. 3) The amounts of non-monetary items do not necessarily represent realization value or any other economic value, but only their original historical values adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar. In these financial statements, the term "cost" signifies cost in adjusted NIS. 11 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): c. PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION: 1) The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. A list of the subsidiaries is presented in the appendix to the financial statements. 2) Intercompany transactions and balances, as well as intercompany profits on sales which have not been realized outside the Group, have been eliminated. 3) As to goodwill, see e(2) below. d. INVENTORIES Raw materials and supplies, finished goods and goods in process, and purchased products are valued at the lower of cost or market (net of processing costs, where appropriate and after deduction of a provision for obsolescence), cost is determined on the moving average basis. e. INVESTMENTS IN INVESTEE COMPANIES: 1) The investments in these companies (in the financial statements of the Company) are accounted for by the equity method. 2) Goodwill is amortized in equal annual installments, over a period of 10 years, commencing in the year of acquisition. f. FIXED ASSETS: 1) Fixed assets are stated at cost. 2) The assets are depreciated by the straight-line method on basis of their estimated useful life, as follows: YEARS ----- Machinery and equipment 7-20 (mainly 10 and 20) Vehicles 5-7 (mainly 7) Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 3-5 (mainly 4) Leasehold improvements are amortized by the straight-line method over the expected term of the lease, which is shorter than the estimated useful life of the improvements. 12 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): g. DEFERRED INCOME TAXES: 1) Deferred taxes are computed in respect of differences between the amounts presented in these statements and those taken into account for tax purposes. As to the main factors in respect of which deferred taxes have been included - see note 7e. Deferred tax balances are computed at the tax rate expected to be in effect at time of release to income from the deferred tax accounts. The amount of deferred taxes presented in the income statements reflects changes in the above balances during the reported years. 2) Taxes which would apply in the event of disposal of investments in the investee companies have not been taken into account in computing the deferred taxes, as the Company intends to hold these investments, not to realize them. h. ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS The allowance for doubtful accounts is determined mainly for specific debts doubtful of collection (see note 12b). i. REVENUE RECOGNITION Revenue from sale of products, net of discounts granted, is recognized upon shipment (date of transfer of title). Revenue from sale of products for export, net of discounts granted, is recognized upon shipment from port. j. DERIVATIVES FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Gains and losses on and cash flows from derivatives that are hedging existing assets or liabilities are recognized in income and cash flows statements commensurate with the results from those assets and liabilities. Gains and losses related to derivatives that are hedging firm commitments are deferred, and ultimately recognized in income as part of the measurement of the results of the underlying hedged transactions. k. IMPAIRMENT IN VALUE OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS In February 2003, Accounting Standard No. 15 of the Israeli Accounting Standards Board - (hereafter - IASB) "Impairment of Assets", became effective. This standard requires a periodic review to evaluate the need for a provision for the impairment of the company's non-monetary assets - fixed assets and identifiable intangibles, including goodwill, as well as investments in associated companies. Accordingly, commencing with the interim financial statements for the 3-month period ended March 31, 2003, the company assesses - at each balance sheet date - whether any events have occurred or changes in circumstances have taken place, which might indicate that there has been an impairment of one or more of the above assets. When such indicators of impairment are present, the company evaluates whether the carrying value of the asset in the company's accounts can be recovered from the cash flows anticipated from that asset. 13 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (continued): The recoverable value of an asset is determined according to the higher of the net selling price of the asset or its value in use to the Company. The value in use is determined according to the present value of anticipated cash flows from the continued use of the asset, including those expected at time of its future retirement and disposal. When it is not possible to assess whether an impairment provision is required for a particular asset on its own, the need for such a provision is assessed in relation to the recoverable value of the cash generating unit to which that asset belongs. Through December 31, 2002, the Group applied the provisions for assessing and recording impairment of assets, prescribed by the U.S. standard, FAS 121. The adoption of this standard has not had any effect on the Group. l. CASH EQUIVALENTS The Group considers all highly liquid investments, which include short-term bank deposits (up to three months from date of deposit) that are not restricted as to withdrawal or use, to be cash equivalents. m. NET INCOME (LOSS) PER NIS 1 OF PAR VALUE OF SHARES Net income (loss) per NIS 1 of par value of shares is computed in accordance with Opinion 55 of the Israeli Institute. The par value of shares used in computation of per share data is NIS 1,000. n. ADVERTISING EXPENSES Advertising expenses are charged to income as incurred (as to the amount of the expenses, see note 10g). o. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS: In October 2001, the IASB issued Israel Accounting Standard No. 12 - Discontinuance of Adjusting Financial Statements for Inflation, which provided for the discontinuance of adjusting financial statements, as of January 1, 2003. In December 2002, Accounting Standard No. 17 was issued that postponed the date from which Accounting Standard No. 12 is to be applied until January 1, 2004. The inflation-adjusted amounts as of December 31, 2003, as presented in these financial statements, will be the base for the financial reporting in the following periods. The Company is currently assessing the effect, if any, of the adoption of this standard, thus, it expects the implementation of Standard No. 12 will mainly affect financing income and expenses items. 14 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 2 - INVESTMENTS IN INVESTEE COMPANIES: A. COMPOSED AS FOLLOWS: THE COMPANY ---------------------- DECEMBER 31 ---------------------- 2003 2002 ------ ------ ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------------------- Shares: Cost 4,338 4,338 Share in accumulated losses (2,476) (1,216) ------ ------ 1,862 3,122 Long-term loan (1) 2,478 2,325 ------ ------ 4,340 5,447 The investment is presented in the balance sheets as follows: Among investments 6,932 7,505 Among long-term liabilities (2,592) (2,058) ------ ------ 4,340 5,447 (1) The loan is linked to the Israeli CPI and is interest free. Repayment date has not yet been fixed. (2) On April 1, 2001, the Company increased its holdings in the associated company and reached control and ownership of 100%. B. The changes in the investments during 2003 are as follows: THE COMPANY ------------ ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------ Balance at beginning of year 5,447 Changes during the year: Share in losses, net (1,260) Erosion of long-term loans 153 ------ Balance at end of year 4,340 15 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 3 - FIXED ASSETS Composition of assets, grouped by major classifications, and changes therein during 2003, are as follows: COST ----------------------------------------------- CHANGES DURING THE YEAR ----------------------------------------------- BALANCE AT BEGINNING BALANCE AT OF END OF YEAR ADDITIONS RETIREMENTS YEAR ------- ----- ----- ------- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------- CONSOLIDATED: Machinery and equipment 111,743 7,620 820 118,543 Vehicles 2,421 6 642 1,785 Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 2,426 367 2,793 Leasehold improvements 3,668 56 3,724 Payments on account of machinery and equipment 4,557 1,290 5,847 ------- ----- ----- ------- 124,815 9,339 1,462 132,692 ======= ===== ===== ======= THE COMPANY: Machinery and equipment 110,130 7,620 508 117,242 Vehicles 81 6 16 71 Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 1,462 367 1,829 Leasehold improvements 2,595 56 2,651 Payments on account of machinery and equipment 4,534 1,290 5,824 ------- ----- ----- ------- 118,802 9,339 524 127,617 ======= ===== ===== ======= ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION ------------------------------------------------------------- CHANGES DURING THE YEAR ------------------------------------------------------------ BALANCE AT BALANCE AT DEPRECIATED BALANCE BEGINNING END OF DECEMBER 31 OF YEAR 2003 2002 YEAR ADDITIONS RETIREMENTS ---- ---- ---- ------ ----- --- ADJUSTED NIS ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------- ------------------------- ----------------- CONSOLIDATED: Machinery and equipment 15,058 6,883 238 21,703 96,840 96,685 Vehicles 1,214 375 374 1,215 570 1,207 Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 682 354 1,036 1,757 1,744 Leasehold improvements 1,039 388 1,427 2,297 2,629 Payments on account of machinery and equipment 5,847 4,557 ------ ----- --- ------ ------- ------- 17,993 8,000 612 25,381 107,311 106,822 ====== ===== === ====== ======= ======= THE COMPANY: Machinery and equipment 14,463 6,721 151 21,033 96,209 95,667 Vehicles 38 11 11 38 33 43 Office furniture and equipment (including computers) 333 257 590 1,239 1,129 Leasehold improvements 777 263 1,040 1,611 1,818 Payments on account of machinery and equipment 5,824 4,534 ------ ----- --- ------- ------- ------- 15,611 7,252 162 22,701 104,916 103,191 ====== ===== === ======= ======= ======= 16 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 4 - LOANS FROM BANK: WEIGHTED AVERAGE CONSOLIDATED AND THE INTEREST RATES COMPANY -------------- -------------------- DECEMBER 31 -------------------- 2003 2002 -------------------- ADJUSTED NIS ------------------- --------------------- % IN THOUSANDS ------------------- --------------------- a) Composed as follows: Linked to the dollar 3.08 44,755 63,175 Linked to the Israeli CPI 6.55 22,078 23,314 ---- ------ ------ 66,833 86,489 Less - current maturities 15,108 14,652 ------ ------ 51,725 71,837 ====== ====== b) The non-current portion of the loans matures as follows: Second year 15,297 14,817 Third year 15,497 14,994 Fourth year 11,332 15,183 Fifth year 3,655 11,006 Sixth year and thereafter 5,944 15,837 ------ ------ 51,725 71,837 ====== ====== c) The Company is required, inter alia, to fulfill certain operational conditions and to maintain certain financial ratios. If the Company defaults on the covenants, the banks are entitled to demand early repayment of the loans - in whole or in part. The Company believes that it is in compliance with all covenants stipulated by the banks. d) As to a "negative pledge agreement" signed by the Company, see note 9c. NOTE 5 - CAPITAL NOTES The capital notes, from shareholders, are linked to the dollar and bear no interest. Repayment date have not been fixed. In 2003, the Company paid the shareholders an aggregate amount of NIS 43,790,000 in respect of capital notes. 17 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 6 - EMPLOYEE RIGHTS UPON RETIREMENT: a. Israeli labor laws and agreements require the Group to pay severance pay to employees dismissed or leaving their employ under certain circumstances, computed on the basis of the number of years of service and, generally, the latest pay rate (one month's pay for each year of service) or of a pension upon retirement. To cover the liability for employee rights upon retirement, pursuant to labor agreements currently in force and based on salary components which, in management's opinion, create entitlement to severance pay, deposits are made with various provident funds (including pension funds) or insurance policies in the name of the employees. The severance pay and pension liabilities and the amounts funded as above are not reflected in the financial statements, as the significant pension and severance pay risks have been irrevocably transferred to the pension funds and the insurance companies, as allowed by the Severance Pay Law. The liability presented in the balance sheets represents the severance pay liability in respect of temporary employees. b. The expenses relating to employee rights upon retirement, which reflect the amounts that were deposited during the reported years with provident funds, pension funds and various insurance policies in respect of permanent employees, and severance payments made in respect of temporary employees, together amount to adjusted NIS 3,827,000, adjusted NIS 2,356,000 and adjusted NIS 2,497,000 in 2003, 2002 and 2001 respectively. NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME: a. MEASUREMENT OF RESULTS FOR TAX PURPOSES UNDER THE INCOME TAX (INFLATIONARY ADJUSTMENTS) LAW, 1985 (hereafter - the inflationary adjustments law) Under the inflationary adjustments law, results for tax purposes are measured in real terms, having regard to the changes in the Israeli CPI. The companies in the Group are taxed under this law. As stated in note 1b, the financial statements are drawn up in NIS adjusted on the basis of the changes in the exchange rate of the dollar. The difference between the change in the Israeli CPI and the change in the exchange rate of the dollar - on an annual and cumulative basis - creates differences between the taxable income and the income reflected in the financial statements. b. THE LAW FOR THE ENCOURAGEMENT OF INDUSTRY (TAXATION), 1969 The Company is an "industrial company" as defined by this law. As such, it is entitled to claim, and has in fact claimed, depreciation at accelerated rates on equipment used in industrial activity as stipulated by regulations published under the inflationary adjustments law. 18 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): c. REFORM OF THE ISRAELI TAX SYSTEM In 2003, the provisions of the Amendment to the Income Tax Ordinance (No. 132), 2002 (hereafter - the tax reform law) came into effect. The tax reform law comprehensively reforms certain parts of the Israeli tax system. Certain provisions of the tax reform law and anticipated supplementary provisions will only be applied from later dates. In accordance with the provisions of the tax reform law, as from January 1, 2003, capital gains will be taxed at a reduced rate of 25%, instead of the regular rate of 36% at which they were taxed until the aforementioned date; with regard to the sale of assets acquired prior to January 1, 2003, the reduced tax rate will be applicable only for the gain allocated to capital gains earned after the implementation of that law, which will be calculated, as prescribed by the tax reform law. Furthermore, the tax reform law stipulates that carryforward capital losses may be utilized against capital gains, without any time restriction (the time limitation for the utilization has been removed in respect of capital losses which arose in the tax year 1996 and thereafter). d. CARRYFORWARD TAX LOSSES Carryforward tax losses of the Group and the Company are adjusted NIS 14,997,000 and 14,528,000 at December 31, 2003, respectively. (December 31, 2002 - adjusted NIS 39,037,000). Under the inflationary adjustments law, the carryforward losses are linked to the Israeli CPI. 19 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): e. Deferred income taxes: 1) Composition of the deferred taxes, and the changes therein during 2003 and 2002, are as follows: PROVISIONS FOR EMPLOYEE RIGHTS --------------------- VACATION ALLOWANCE AND FOR IN RESPECT OF DEPRECIABLE SEVERANCE RECREATION DOUBTFUL CARRYFORWARD FIXED ASSETS INVENTORIES PAY PAY ACCOUNTS TAX LOSSES TOTAL ------------ ----------- --------- ---------- -------- ------------ ------- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- CONSOLIDATED: Balance at January 1, 2002 (18,879) (1,379) 44 1,636 1,281 18,571 1,274 Changes in 2002 - amounts carried to income (8,214) 1,274 4 (226) 197 (4,518) (11,483) ------- ------ -- ----- ----- ----- ------- Balance at December 31, 2002 (27,093) (105) 48 1,410 1,478 14,053 (10,209) Changes in 2003 - amounts carried to income (2,206) 649 4 108 (170) (8,823) (10,438) ------- ------ -- ----- ----- ----- ------- Balance at December 31, 2003 (29,299) 544 52 1,518 1,308 5,230 (20,647) ======= ====== == ===== ===== ===== ======= 20 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): e. Deferred income taxes (continued): PROVISIONS FOR EMPLOYEE RIGHTS --------------------- VACATION AND IN RESPECT OF DEPRECIABLE SEVERANCE RECREATION CARRYFORWARD FIXED ASSETS INVENTORIES PAY PAY TAX LOSSES TOTAL ------------ ----------- --------- ---------- ------------ ------- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- THE COMPANY: Balance January 1, 2002 (18,879) (1,113) 27 1,354 16,644 (1,967) Changes in 2002 - amounts carried to income (8,214) 1,074 7 (169) (2,591) (9,893) ------- --- -- ----- ----- ------- Balance at December 31, 2002 (27,093) (39) 34 1,185 14,053 (11,860) Changes in 2003 - amounts carried to income (2,206) 403 18 333 (8,823) (10,275) ------- --- -- ----- ----- ------- Balance at December 31, 2003 (29,299) 364 52 1,518 5,230 (22,135) ======= === == ===== ===== ======= The deferred taxes are computed at the rate of 36%. 21 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): e. Deferred income taxes (continued): 2) Deferred taxes are presented in the balance sheets, as follows: CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY --------------------------------- --------------------------------- AMONG AS A AMONG AS A CURRENT NON-CURRENT CURRENT NON-CURRENT ASSETS(1) LIABILITY(2) TOTAL ASSETS(1) LIABILITY (2) TOTAL ----- ------- ------- ----- ------- ------- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------- --------------------------------- Balance at January 1, 2002 1,533 (259) 1,274 241 (2,208) (1,967) Changes in 2002 7,815 (19,298) (11,483) 7,473 (17,366) (9,893) ----- ------- ------- ----- ------- ------- Balance at December 31, 2002 9,348 (19,557) (10,209) 7,714 (19,574) (11,860) Changes in 2003 (748) (9,690) (10,438) (602) (9,673) (10,275) ----- ------- ------- ----- ------- ------- Balance at December 31, 2003 8,600 (29,247) (20,647) 7,112 (29,247) (22,135) ===== ======= ======= ===== ======= ======= (1) In respect of inventories, allowance for doubtful accounts, carryforward tax losses, vacation and recreation pay. (2) In respect of depreciable fixed assets, severance pay and carryforward tax losses. (3) The deferred taxes are computed at the rate of 36%. 22 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): f. Taxes on income included in the statements of income (loss): 1) As follows: CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ---------------------------------- --------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ----- ------ ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the reported year: Current 80 51 (93) Deferred, see d above 10,438 10,220 (1,761) 10,275 9,893 (1,792) ------ ------ ------ ------ ----- ------ 10,518 10,271 (1,761) 10,275 9,800 (1,792) ------ ------ ------ ------ ----- ------ For previous years: Current (733) (729) Deferred 1,263 (778) (778) ------ ------ ------ ------ ----- ------ 10,518 11,534 (3,272) 10,275 9,800 (3,299) ====== ====== ====== ====== ===== ====== NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 7 - TAXES ON INCOME (continued): f. Taxes on income included in the statements of income (loss) (continued): 2) Following is a reconciliation of the theoretical tax amount, assuming all income (loss) is taxed at the regular rate, and the actual tax amount: CONSOLIDATED ------------------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 -------------- -------------- ---------------- ADJUSTED ADJUSTED ADJUSTED NIS NIS NIS IN IN IN % THOUSANDS % THOUSANDS % THOUSANDS ----- ------ ----- ------ ------ ------- Income (loss) before taxes on income, as reported in the statements of income (loss) 100.0 29,037 100.0 27,611 (100.0) (11,104) ===== ====== ===== ====== ====== ======= Theoretical tax (tax benefit) on the above amount 36.0 10,453 36.0 9,940 (36.0) (3,997) Changes in taxes resulting from: Differences between Israeli CPI Adjusted tax returns and dollar-adjusted financial statements - net (see a above) 0.2 65 0.7 186 20.0 2,212 Other - net 0.5 145 0.2 24 ----- ------ ----- ------ ------ ------- Taxes on income (tax benefit) for the reported year 36.2 10,518 37.2 10,271 (15.8) (1,761) ===== ====== ===== ====== ====== ======= THE COMPANY ------------------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 -------------- -------------- ---------------- ADJUSTED ADJUSTED ADJUSTED NIS NIS NIS IN IN IN % THOUSANDS % THOUSANDS % THOUSANDS ----- ------ ----- ------ ------ ------- Income (loss) before taxes on income, as reported in the statements of income (loss) 100.0 30,054 100.0 26,815 (100.0) (12,870) ===== ====== ===== ====== ===== ====== Theoretical tax (tax benefit) on the above amount 36.0 10,819 36.0 9,653 (36.0) (4,633) Changes in taxes resulting from: Differences between Israeli CPI Adjusted tax returns and dollar-adjusted financial statements - net (see a above) 1.8 (544) 0.3 78 22.0 2,774 Other - net 0.3 69 0.1 67 ----- ------ ----- ------ ------ ------ Taxes on income (tax benefit) for the reported year 34.2 10,275 36.6 9,800 (14) (1,792) ===== ====== ===== ====== ====== ====== g. Tax assessments The Company and its subsidiaries have not been assessed for tax purposes since incorporation. 23 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 8 - LINKAGE TERMS OF MONETARY BALANCES: a. As follows: CONSOLIDATED ------------------------------------------------- DECEMBER 31, 2003 ------------------------------------------------- IN, OR LINKED TO, FOREIGN CURRENCY (MAINLY LINKED TO THE THE DOLLAR) ISRAELI CPI UNLINKED ----------- ----------- -------- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------------------- Assets: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 24,492 7,186 Accounts receivable: Trade 34,213 113,535 Other 970 ------- ------ ------- Long-term loan to subsidiary 58,705 121,691 ======= ======= Liabilities: Current liabilities - accounts payable and accruals: Trade 85,386 18,711 AIPM and its subsidiaries - net 52,968 Other 2,881 9,543 Long-term liabilities: Loans from bank (including current maturities) 44,755 22,078 Capital notes from shareholders (including current maturities) 43,790 -------- ------ ------- 176,812 22,078 81,222 ======== ====== ======= THE COMPANY ------------------------------------------------- DECEMBER 31, 2003 ------------------------------------------------- IN, OR LINKED TO, FOREIGN CURRENCY (MAINLY LINKED TO THE THE DOLLAR) ISRAELI CPI UNLINKED ----------- ----------- -------- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------------------- Assets: Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 12,896 7,138 Accounts receivable: AIPM and its subsidiaries - net 134,659 Other 5,448 Long-term loan to subsidiary 2,478 ------- ----- -------- 12,896 2,478 147,245 ======= ===== ======== Liabilities: Current liabilities - accounts payable and accruals: 37,826 15,571 AIPM and its subsidiaries - net 52,671 Subsidiaries 2,881 9,168 Other Long-term liabilities: 44,755 22,078 Loans from bank (including current maturities) Capital notes from shareholders (including current maturities) 43,790 ------- ----- -------- 129,252 22,078 77,410 ======= ===== ======== 24 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 8 - LINKAGE TERMS OF MONETARY BALANCES (continued): b. Data regarding the exchange rate and the Israeli CPI: EXCHANGE RATE OF ONE DOLLAR CPI* ---------------- ------ NIS POINTS --- ------ At end of year: 2003 NIS 4.379 178.6 2002 NIS 4.737 182.0 2001 NIS 4.416 170.9 2000 NIS 4.041 168.5 Increase (decrease) during the year: 2003 (7.6%) (1.9%) 2002 7.3% 6.5% 2001 9.3% 1.4% * Based on the index for the month ending on each balance sheet date, on the basis of the 1993 average = 100. NOTE 9 - COMMITMENTS AND LIABILITIES SECURED BY PLEDGES: a. The subsidiaries entered into operating lease agreements for the buildings they use. The agreements are for periods ending through 2008. The projected annual rental payments for the next four years, based on rates in effect as of December 31, 2003, approximate adjusted NIS 1,579,000. b. As to a lease agreement relating to the Company, see note 11a(2). c. To secure bank loans and credits (the balance of which at December 31, 2003 is adjusted NIS 66,833,000), the Company signed a "negative pledge agreement," under which it is committed not to pledge its assets (of all kinds), excluding fixed pledges relating to assets financed by others. NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION: Balance sheets: a. Accounts receivable: CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY DECEMBER 31 DECEMBER 31 ------------------ ------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------- ------- ------- ----- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------------------------------- 1) Trade: Composed as follows: Open accounts 111,796 119,080 2,811 Cheques receivable 35,952 35,915 ------- ------- ----- 147,748 154,995 2,811 ======= ======= ===== The item includes (is net of): Neusiedler AG, see note 1a(3) 18,957 34,200 = == ======= ======= Affiliated company 2,811 2,811 ======== ===== Allowance for doubtful accounts 3,630 4,106 ======= ======= 25 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY --------------- ---------------- DECEMBER 31 DECEMBER 31 --------------- ---------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ----- ------ ------ ------ ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------- 2) Other: Institutions 201 716 363 Customs and value added tax (VAT) authorities* 4,922 3,695 Prepaid expenses 990 504 329 250 Advances to suppliers 736 451 569 451 Amounts accrued in respect of forward transactions, see note 12c 505 505 Deferred income taxes, see note 7e 8,600 9,348 7,112 7,714 Sundry 769 1,272 526 754 ------ ------ ------ ------ 11,296 12,796 13,458 13,732 ====== ====== ====== ====== * Consolidated VAT returns are filed by the Group b. Inventories: For industrial activities: Finished goods and goods in process 32,584 38,317 31,262 36,561 Raw materials and supplies 31,389 28,034 31,388 28,034 ------ ------ ------ ------ 63,973 66,351 62,650 64,595 For commercial activities - purchased products 25,258 13,347 ------ ------ ------ ------ 89,231 79,698 62,650 64,595 ====== ====== ====== ====== The item is net of provision for obsolescence 906 1,375 530 941 ====== ====== ====== ====== c. Credit from banks: Composed as follows: Short-term credit 18 Current maturities of loans from bank, see note 4 15,108 14,652 15,108 14,652 ------ ------ ------ ------ 15,108 14,670 15,108 14,652 ====== ====== ====== ====== Unutilized credit lines 87,580 87,765 87,580 87,580 ====== ====== ====== ====== In 2003 and 2002, the Company and its subsidiaries entered into an agreement for a bank credit facility, pursuant to which the Company and its subsidiaries may, from time to time, borrow an aggregate principal amount of up to adjusted NIS 87,580,000. Under the terms of the agreement, the credit facility has no time limit. 26 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): d. Accounts payable and accruals: 1) Trade: CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ------------ ----------- DECEMBER 31 DECEMBER 31 ----------- ----------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ---- ---- ---- ---- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------------------------------- The item includes: Neusiedler AG 7,803 1,502 1,423 557 ====== ====== ====== ====== Affiliated company 1,733 3,943 467 ====== ====== ====== 2) Other: Payroll and related expenses 1,914 1,594 1,918 1,541 Provision for vacation and recreation pay 4,226 3,897 4,228 3,294 Customs and value added tax (VAT) authorities* 368 1,008 Interest payable 2,882 3,416 2,882 3,416 Advances from customers 258 5,032 Neusiedler AG 552 1,901 552 1,901 Sundry 2,482 3,085 2,469 2,711 ------ ------ ------ ------ 12,682 19,933 12,049 12,863 ====== ====== ====== ====== * Consolidated VAT returns are filed by the Group. Statements of income (loss): CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ------------ ----------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------------------------- e. Sales - net (1): Industrial activities (2) 455,927 424,195 406,035 462,654 421,413 398,150 Commercial activities 186,213 151,412 151,541 ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- 642,140 575,607 557,576 462,654 421,413 398,150 ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= (1) Including sales to: Investee companies 13,991 462,654 421,413 398,150 ======= ======= ======= ======= Shareholders and its subsidiaries 170,811 154,765 119,516 ======= ======= ======= Affiliated company 320 832 1,278 ======= ======= ======= (2) Including export, see note 13 157,303 149,260 126,059 ======= ======= ======= 27 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ---------------------------------- --------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------------------------------- f. Cost of sales: Industrial activities: Materials consumed 271,334 251,070 253,333 271,332 251,070 253,333 Payroll and related expenses 30,482 **25,608 **29,373 30,482 **25,608 **29,373 Energy costs 43,166 36,539 34,335 43,164 36,539 34,335 Depreciation 7,243 6,464 5,131 7,243 6,464 5,131 Other manufacturing costs and expenses (including rent) 34,758 **29,181 **33,580 33,972 **27,739 **32,040 Decrease (increase) in inventories of finished goods and goods in process in process (7,269) 18,975 *30,719 5,299 11,709 *15,732 ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- 379,714 367,837 386,471 391,492 359,129 369,944 Commercial activities - cost of products sold 177,176 122,125 119,005 ------- -------- -------- ------- -------- -------- 556,890 489,962 505,476 391,492 359,129 369,944 ======= ======== ======== ======= ======== ======== * After deduction of adjusted NIS 8,625,000 - amounts refunded from insurance companies. ** Reclassified. 28 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ---------------------------------- ------------------------------------ 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- g. Selling, marketing, administrative and general expenses: Selling and marketing: Payroll and related expenses 16,913 *18,190 *18,922 16,913 *12,033 *11,139 Packaging and shipping 17,460 14,740 11,709 9,714 9,419 9,822 Office and warehouse rent and maintenance 4,144 *6,148 *6,094 4,139 *3,941 *3,210 Equipment and vehicle maintenance 1,178 1,427 2,098 399 315 345 Advertising 180 153 245 180 116 145 Commissions 1,865 176 298 176 298 Subsistence and travel 337 311 153 337 311 153 Depreciation 670 880 789 44 20 25 Other 145 456 110 604 416 52 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 42,892 42,481 40,418 32,330 26,747 25,189 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== Administrative and general: Payroll and related expenses 3,821 3,310 3,841 3,821 2,090 2,124 Office supplies, rent and maintenance 1,496 2,339 1,843 933 635 630 Professional fees and and maintenance fee 1,594 2,227 2,189 1,152 1,549 1,509 Depreciation and amortization 652 733 581 Doubtful accounts and bad debts 679 1,475 955 Other 398 237 262 159 61 9 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 8,640 10,321 9,671 6,065 4,335 4,272 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== * Reclassified. 29 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 10 - SUPPLEMENTARY FINANCIAL STATEMENT INFORMATION (continued): CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY -------------------------------- ---------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- h. Financial income expenses) - net: Expenses: In respect of long-term loans 3,254 4,208 5,771 3,254 4,206 5,771 Erosion of operating monetary balances, net of related hedges 634 4,946 1,608 1,423 7,110 In respect of interest and exchange differences on customer's balances - net 3,770 1,147 875 In respect of short-term balances - net 1,253 753 Other 270 186 ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- (7,024) (5,989) (13,115) (4,862) (5,629) (13,820) ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- Income: In respect of increase in value of cash balances relating to operating activity 2,205 Erosion of operating monetary balances, net of 350 related hedges In respect of short-term balances - net 1,993 473 2,149 950 Other 284 292 ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- 2,343 757 2,149 1,242 2,205 ------ ------ ------- ------ ------ ------- (4,681) (5,232) (13,115) 2,713 (4,387) (11,615) ====== ====== ======= ====== ====== ======= 30 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 11 - "INTERESTED PARTIES" - TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES: a. Transactions - expenses (income): 1) As follows: CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ------------------------------- --------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------------------------- Sales (171,131) (155,599) (120,795) ======= ======= ======= Costs and expenses 73,414 71,750 79,072 73,112 66,215 73,392 ======= ======= ======= ====== ====== ====== Financial - net 13,759 (3,722) (3,681) 858 (298) 3,166 ======= ======= ======= ====== ====== ====== 2) The Company leases its premises from AIPM and uses services (including electricity, water, maintenance and professional services) rendered under agreements which are renewed every year. The expenses in respect of the above agreements are presented in (1) above. 3) The transactions as above represent transactions carried out in the ordinary course of business, at terms and prices as with non-affiliated customers and suppliers. b. Balances with interested parties: CONSOLIDATED THE COMPANY ------------------- --------------------- DECEMBER 31 DECEMBER 31 ------------------- --------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ---- ---- ---- ---- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------------------------------------- Current assets - accounts receivable 18,957 37,011 134,659 73,370 ====== ====== ======= ====== Current liabilities - accounts payable and accruals 62,504 62,578 1,900 3,004 ====== ====== ======= ====== Capital notes and current maturities of long-term capital notes 43,790 87,580 43,790 87,580 ====== ====== ======= ====== 31 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 12 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND RISK MANAGEMENT: a. Derivative financial instruments The Company has only limited involvement with derivative financial instruments. The Company uses these instruments as hedges. The Company utilizes derivatives, mainly forward exchange contracts to protect its dollar cash flows in respect of existing assets and liabilities. As the counter-parties of these derivatives are Israeli banks, the Company considers the interest credit risks remote. As of December 31, 2003 there are no balances in respect of transactions in derivatives financial instruments. b. Credit risks The Group's cash and cash equivalents are deposited mainly with major Israeli banks. Most of the Group's sales are made in Israel and Europe, to a large number of customers. The exposure to credit risks relating to trade receivables is limited due to the relatively large number of customers. The Group performs ongoing credit evaluations of its debtors and requires collaterals when appropriate. An appropriate allowance for doubtful accounts is included in the financial statements. c. Fair value of financial instruments The financial instruments of the Group consist mainly of non-derivative assets and liabilities (which include working capital items, long-term loans to investee companies, long-term loans received and capital notes) and of some derivatives (see a. above). In view of their nature, the fair value of the financial instruments included in working capital of the Group is usually identical or close to their carrying value. The fair value of the long-term loans also approximates the carrying value, since they bear interest at rates close to the prevailing market rates. The Company does not disclose the fair value of capital notes from shareholders, included under current liabilities and long-term liabilities aggregating adjusted NIS 43,790 in thousands (see note 5), since their value cannot be reliably determined prior to determining their repayment dates. The fair value and the carrying value of derivatives at December 31, 2002, is approximately adjusted NIS 505,000, and generally reflects the estimated amounts that the Group would receive or pay to terminate the contracts at the reporting dates. 32 NOTE 13 - BUSINESS AND GEOGRAPHICAL SEGMENTS Following are data regarding the distribution of the Group's consolidated sales by geographical market, regardless of where the goods were produced: 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- ADJUSTED NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------------------------- Europe 139,791 129,416 110,005 Israel 484,837 426,347 431,516 Other 17,512 19,844 16,054 ------- ------- ------- 642,140 575,607 557,575 ======= ======= ======= 33 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 14 - NOMINAL DATA OF THE COMPANY: a. Balance sheet data: NOMINAL NIS ------------------------ IN THOUSANDS DECEMBER 31 ------------------------ 2003 2002 ------- ------- A S S E T S Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 20,034 49,359 Accounts receivable: Trade 3,041 American Israeli Paper Mills Limited and its subsidiaries - net 134,659 76,327 Subsidiaries 9,536 Other 6,328 6,454 Inventories 63,651 69,751 ------- ------- 224,672 214,468 ------- ------- Investments in investee companies 6,592 7,252 ------- ------- Fixed assets: Cost 123,564 114,341 L e s s - accumulated depreciation 21,749 14,853 ------- ------- 101,815 99,488 ------- ------- 333,079 321,208 ======= ======= LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Current liabilities: Credit from banks 15,108 15,850 Current maturities of long-term capital loans 18,948 Accounts payable and accruals: Trade 53,397 48,432 Subsidiaries 52,671 Other 12,049 13,915 ------- ------- 133,225 97,145 Long-term liabilities: Loans from bank 51,725 77,710 Capital notes from shareholders (net of current maturities) 43,790 75,792 Excess of losses of subsidiaries over the investments therein 3,738 4,325 Liability for employee rights upon retirement 145 104 ------- ------- 99,398 157,931 ------- ------- T o t a l liabilities 232,623 255,076 ------- ------- Shareholders' equity, see c. below: Share capital 1 1 Capital surplus 41,125 41,125 Retained earnings 59,330 25,006 ------- ------- 100,456 66,132 ------- ------- 333,079 321,208 ======= ======= 34 NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. (An Israeli Corporation) NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (continued) NOTE 14 - NOMINAL DATA OF THE COMPANY (continued): b. Operating results data: NOMINAL NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- Sales - net 480,764 452,986 382,166 Cost of sales 406,930 *378,990 *351,317 ------- ------- ------- Gross profit 73,834 73,996 30,849 ------- ------- ------- Selling, marketing, administrative and general expenses: Selling and marketing 33,455 *28,769 *24,205 Administrative and general 9,173 4,639 4,120 ------- ------- ------- 42,628 33,408 28,325 ------- ------- ------- Income from ordinary operations 31,206 40,588 2,524 Financial income (expenses) - net (3,152) 11,957 22,130 ------- ------- ------- Income (loss) before taxes on income 34,358 28,631 (19,606) Tax benefit, see d. below (669) ------- ------- ------- Income (loss) after taxes on income 34,358 28,631 (18,937) Share in losses of investee companies, net 34 385 559 ------- ------- ------- Net income (loss) for the year - nominal 34,324 28,246 (19,496) ======= ======= ======= * Reclassified. c. Changes in shareholders' equity: NOMINAL NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------------------------- SHARE CAPITAL ACCUMULATED CAPITAL SURPLUS DEFICIT TOTAL ------- ------- ------- ----- Balance at January 1, 2001 1 41,125 16,256 57,382 Changes during 2001 - loss (19,496) (19,496) ------ ------ ------ ------- Balance at January 1, 2001 1 41,125 (3,240) 37,886 Changes during 2002 - net income 28,246 28,246 ------ ------ ------ ------- Balance at December 31, 2002 1 41,125 25,006 66,132 Changes during 2003 - net income 34,324 34,324 ------ ------ ------ ------- Balance at December 31, 2003 1 41,125 59,330 100,456 ====== ====== ====== ======= d. For practical reasons, no deferred taxes are created in the nominal accounts. --------------- ------------------------------- --------------- 35 APPENDIX NEUSIEDLER HADERA PAPER LTD. DETAILS OF INVESTEE COMPANIES AT DECEMBER 31, 2003 PERCENTAGE OF HOLDING IN SHARES CONFERRING PROFIT AND VOTING RIGHTS -------------------------- % ------- SUBSIDIARIES: Grafinir Paper Marketing Ltd. 100.00 Yavnir (1999) Ltd. 100.00 Neusiedler Hadera Paper Marketing (1999) Ltd. 100.00 Miterani Paper Marketing 2000 (1998) Ltd. 100.00 36 HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2003 TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE ---- INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT 1 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: Balance Sheets 2 Statements of Operations 3 Statements of Changes in Shareholders' Equity 4 Statements of Cash Flows 5-6 Notes to the Financial Statements 7-29 INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. ("the Company") as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the consolidated balance sheets as of those dates, and the related statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's Board of Directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. The statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - for the year ended December 31, 2001 were audited by other auditors whose report, dated March 4, 2002, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements. We conducted our audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in the United States and in Israel, including those prescribed by the Israeli Auditors' Regulations (Mode of Performance), 1973. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the Board of Directors and management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - for each of the two years in the period then ended, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in Israel. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above are prepared in accordance with the Israeli Securities Regulations (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements), 1993. Accounting principles generally accepted in Israel vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The application of the latter would have affected the determination of the financial position and results of operations as of the dates and for the years presented to the extent summarized in Note 25. As explained in Note 2A, the financial statements have been prepared on the basis of historical cost adjusted for changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar in relation to the NIS, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. /s/ Brightman Almagor & Co. Brightman Almagor & Co. Certified Public Accountants A Member Firm of Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Tel Aviv, March 8, 2004 -1- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. BALANCE SHEETS (Adjusted for changes in the U.S. dollar vis-a-vis the NIS) CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ---------------------- ---------------------- DECEMBER 31, DECEMBER 31, ---------------------- ---------------------- NOTE 2003 2002 2003 2002 ---- ------- ------- ------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------------------- ---------------------- CURRENT ASSETS Cash and cash equivalents 3 37,340 21,330 31,645 10,832 Current maturities of long-term bank deposits 7 7,882 9,195 7,882 9,195 Trade receivables 4 229,979 182,568 74,668 41,176 Other receivables 5 14,222 10,574 7,879 6,719 Inventories 6 92,664 86,427 58,539 42,292 ------- ------- ------- ------- 382,087 310,094 180,613 110,214 ======= ======= ======= ======= LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS Long-term deposits 7 70,064 77,946 - 7,882 Capital note of shareholder 8 32,770 30,294 32,770 30,294 Investments in Subsidiaries 9 - - 196,037 158,619 ------- ------- ------- ------- 102,834 108,240 228,807 196,795 ======= ======= ======= ======= FIXED ASSETS 10 Cost 479,744 464,144 380,774 368,011 Less - accumulated depreciation 210,176 193,428 164,163 151,639 ------- ------- ------- ------- 269,568 270,716 216,611 216,372 ======= ======= ======= ======= OTHER ASSETS - GOODWILL 9B 29,073 31,841 - - ------- ------- ------- ------- 783,562 720,891 626,031 523,381 ======= ======= ======= ======= CURRENT LIABILITIES Short-term bank credit 1,087 - 1,087 - Current maturities of long-term bank loans 13 15,147 24,960 - - Trade payables 11 139,555 127,629 174,580 95,570 Other payables and accrued expenses 12 37,632 32,502 10,645 21,648 ------- ------- ------- ------- 193,421 185,091 186,312 117,218 ======= ======= ======= ======= LONG-TERM LIABILITIES Long-term bank loans 13 96,338 82,326 - - Deferred taxes 22 29,428 19,644 26,738 16,592 ------- ------- ------- ------- 125,766 101,970 26,738 16,592 ======= ======= ======= ======= COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES 15 MINORITY INTEREST 51,394 44,259 - - ======= ======= ======= ======= SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY Share capital 16 28,788 28,788 28,788 28,788 Capital reserves 156,799 156,799 156,799 156,799 Retained earnings 227,394 171,141 227,394 171,141 Dividend declared after balance sheet date - 32,843 - 32,843 ------- ------- ------- ------- 412,981 389,571 412,981 389,571 ------- ------- ------- ------- 783,562 720,891 626,031 523,381 ======= ======= ======= ======= -------------------- -------------------- -------------------- -------------------- T. DAVIS Y. YERUSHALMI A. MAGID A. BRENNER Chairman of the Board of Vice-Chairman of the Board of Financial Manager Managing Director Directors Directors Approval date of the financial statements: March 8, 2004. The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. -2- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (Adjusted for changes in the U.S. dollar vis-a-vis the NIS) CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------- NOTE 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ---- --------- ---------- ----------- --------- --------- --------- NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------- Net sales 17 868,671 766,549 821,264 377,117 285,442 331,109 Cost of sales 18 621,014 554,763 559,173 322,558 233,096 243,591 --------- ---------- ----------- --------- --------- --------- GROSS PROFIT 247,657 211,786 262,091 54,559 52,346 87,518 Selling expenses 19 130,670 (*)123,955 (*) 131,133 7,538 5,373 5,352 General and administrative expenses 20 39,046 (*)29,941 (*) 33,379 4,381 5,368 6,172 --------- ---------- ----------- --------- --------- --------- OPERATING PROFIT 77,941 57,890 97,579 42,640 41,605 75,994 Financing income (expenses), net 21 5,517 (13,425) (17,420) (12,268) (4,622) 293 Other income (expenses), net 496 78 (550) 238 714 406 --------- ---------- ----------- --------- --------- --------- INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 83,954 44,543 79,609 30,610 37,697 76,693 Income taxes 22 20,566 19,232 36,477 11,775 16,076 28,378 --------- ---------- ----------- --------- --------- --------- INCOME AFTER INCOME TAXES 63,388 25,311 43,132 18,835 21,621 48,315 Equity in net earnings (losses) of Subsidiaries - - - 37,418 1,091 (6,714) Minority interest in earnings of Subsidiary (7,135) (2,599) (1,531) - - - --------- ---------- ----------- --------- --------- --------- NET INCOME FOR THE YEAR 56,253 22,712 41,601 56,253 22,712 41,601 ========= ========== =========== ========= ========= ========= EARNINGS PER SHARE (IN NIS) 6.81 2.75 5.03 6.81 2.75 5.03 ========= ========== =========== ========= ========= ========= NUMBER OF SHARES USED IN COMPUTATION 8,263,473 8,263,473 8,263,473 8,263,473 8,263,473 8,263,473 ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= (*) Reclassified. The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. -3- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (Adjusted for changes in the U.S. dollar vis-a-vis the NIS) DIVIDEND DECLARED AFTER SHARE CAPITAL RETAINED BALANCE SHEET CAPITAL RESERVES EARNINGS DATE TOTAL -------------- -------------- ----------- ---------------- -------------- NIS IN THOUSANDS BALANCE - JANUARY 1, 2001 28,788 156,799 183,461 - 369,048 CHANGES DURING 2001: Dividend declared after balance-sheet date (43,790) (43,790) Net income for the year 41,601 41,601 -------------- -------------- ----------- ---------------- -------------- BALANCE - DECEMBER 31, 2001 28,788 156,799 181,272 - 366,859 CHANGES DURING 2002: Dividend declared after balance-sheet date (32,843) 32,843 - Net income for the year 22,712 22,712 -------------- -------------- ----------- ---------------- -------------- BALANCE - DECEMBER 31, 2002 28,788 156,799 171,141 32,843 389,571 CHANGES DURING 2003: Dividend paid (32,843) (32,843) Net income for the year 56,253 56,253 -------------- -------------- ----------- ---------------- -------------- BALANCE - DECEMBER 31, 2003 28,788 156,799 227,394 - 412,981 The accopanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. -4- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Adjusted for changes in the U.S. dollar vis-a-vis the NIS) CONSOLIDATED COMPANY --------------------------------- ---------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, --------------------------------- ---------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------- -------- ------- ------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------- ---------------------------------- CASH FLOWS - OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net income 56,253 22,712 41,601 56,253 22,712 41,601 Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities (Appendix A) 4,190 14,324 18,657 7,188 80,535 16,087 ------- ------- -------- ------- ------- ------- NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES 60,443 37,036 60,258 63,441 103,247 57,688 ======= ======= ========= ======= ======= ======= CASH FLOWS - INVESTING ACTIVITIES Investment in short-term bank deposit - - (57,069) - - - Withdrawal of short-term bank deposit - 57,069 - - - - Investment in long-term bank deposits - - (13,575) - - (13,575) Withdrawal of long-term bank deposits 9,195 8,759 - 9,195 8,759 - Acquisition of fixed assets (26,953) (76,523) (47,729) (20,351) (66,375) (41,520) Proceeds from sale of fixed assets 1,092 456 1,321 284 161 955 ------- ------- -------- ------- ------- ------- NET CASH USED IN INVESTING ACTIVITIES (16,666) (10,239) (117,052) (10,872) (57,455) (54,140) ======= ======= ========= ======= ======= ======= CASH FLOWS - FINANCING ACTIVITIES Dividend paid (32,843) (43,790) - (32,843) (43,790) - Long-term loans received 28,949 11,386 13,575 - - - Repayment of long-term loans (24,960) - - - - - Short-term bank credit 1,087 - - 1,087 - - ------- ------- -------- ------- ------- ------- NET CASH PROVIDED BY (USED IN) FINANCING ACTIVITIES (27,767) (32,404) 13,575 (31,756) (43,790) - ======= ======= ========= ======= ======= ======= INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS 16,010 (5,607) (43,219) 20,813 2,002 3,548 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - BEGINNING OF YEAR 21,330 26,937 70,156 10,832 8,830 5,282 ------- ------- -------- ------- ------- ------- CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS - END OF YEAR 37,340 21,330 26,937 31,645 10,832 8,830 ======= ======= ========= ======= ======= ======= The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. -5- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. APPENDICES TO STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Adjusted for changes in the U.S. dollar vis-a-vis the NIS) CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------------------- -------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------- -------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------- -------------------------------- A. ADJUSTMENTS TO RECONCILE NET INCOME TO NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES INCOME AND EXPENSES ITEMS NOT INVOLVING CASH FLOWS: Minority interest in earnings of Subsidiary 7,135 2,599 1,531 - - - Equity in net losses (earnings) of Subsidiaries - - - (37,418) (1,091) 6,714 Depreciation and amortization 25,213 22,086 21,262 14,789 12,093 11,153 Deferred taxes, net 8,251 1,072 3,028 10,417 1,046 2,508 Loss (gain) from sale of fixed assets (482) 81 (373) (208) (29) (385) Effect of exchange rate differences, net (2,266) 2,202 3,015 (2,476) 2,202 3,015 CHANGES IN ASSETS AND LIABILITIES: Decrease (increase) in trade receivables (47,933) (14,411) (2,026) (4,930) (455) 446 Decrease (increase) in other receivables (2,115) 4,860 (7,055) (1,431) (1,395) (2,098) Decrease (increase) in inventories (6,237) (16,362) 9,927 (16,247) (10,406) 13,558 Increase (decrease) in trade payables 27,544 18,343 (1,057) 13,628 15,495 (8,035) Net change in balances with related parties (10,050) 7,731 3,411 42,067 71,830 13,603 Increase (decrease) in other payables and accrued expenses 5,130 (13,877) (13,006) (11,003) (8,755) (24,392) ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 4,190 14,324 18,657 7,188 80,535 16,087 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== B. NON-CASH ACTIVITIES Dividend declared 43,790 43,790 ====== ====== Acquisition of fixed assets on credit 8,661 13,707 2,382 8,460 13,707 2,382 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. -6- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 1 - GENERAL A. DESCRIPTION Hogla Kimberly Ltd. ("the Company") and its Subsidiaries are engaged principally in the production and marketing of paper and hygienic products. The Company's results of operations are affected by transactions with shareholders and affiliated companies (see Note 23). The Company is presently owned by Kimberly Clark Corp. ("KC" or the "Parent Company") (50.1%) and American-Israeli Paper Mills Ltd. ("AIPM") (49.9%). B. DEFINITIONS: THE COMPANY - Hogla-Kimberly Ltd. THE GROUP - the Company and its Subsidiaries, a list of whom is provided in Note 9D. SUBSIDIARIES - companies in which the Company exercises over 50% ownership and control, directly or indirectly, and whose financial statements are fully consolidated with those of the Company. RELATED PARTIES - as defined by Opinion No. 29 of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. INTERESTED PARTIES - as defined in the Israeli Securities Regulations (Presentation of Financial Statements), 1993. CONTROLLING SHAREHOLDER - as defined in the Israeli Securities Regulations (Presentation of Transactions between a Corporation and its Controlling Shareholder in the Financial Statements), 1996. NIS - New Israeli Shekel. CPI - the Israeli consumer price index. DOLLAR - the U.S. dollar. C. USE OF ESTIMATES The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual results could differ from those estimates. -7- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES The following are the principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of the financial statements in a manner consistent with previous years: A. ADJUSTED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (1) GENERAL In accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel, the financial statements, including comparative figures for previous years, are presented on the basis of nominal historical cost adjusted for changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar in relation to the NIS. The adjusted amounts of non-monetary items presented in the financial statements reflect their cost adjusted for changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar vis-a-vis the NIS, and do not necessarily reflect realization or current economic value of these items. The term "cost" in these financial statements refers to adjusted cost, unless otherwise indicated. The term "NIS" refers to adjusted NIS, unless otherwise stated. The Company's condensed financial statements in nominal values, on the basis of which the adjusted financial statements were prepared, are presented in Note 26. (2) PRINCIPLES OF ADJUSTMENT a. BALANCE SHEET ITEMS Non-monetary items (items whose balances reflect historical value at acquisition or upon establishment) have been adjusted in accordance with the changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar from the date of acquisition/establishment through December 31, 2003. Investments in Subsidiaries and minority interest were determined based on the dollar adjusted financial statements of these companies. Monetary items (items whose balance sheet amounts represent current or realization value at the balance sheet date) are presented in the December 31, 2003 balance sheet at their nominal value as of that date. b. STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS ITEMS Income and expenses reflecting transactions, other than financial income and expenses, were adjusted for changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar from the date of the transaction to the balance sheet date. Income and expenses arising from non-monetary items (mainly depreciation, amortization, deferred taxes and changes in inventory) were adjusted in a manner corresponding to the adjustment of the related balance sheet items. Financing income (expenses), net reflect income and expenses in real terms and include exchange rate differences derived from monetary items. The Company's share and the minority interest in the results of Subsidiaries were determined based on the dollar adjusted financial statements of these companies. -8- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (cont.) A. ADJUSTED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (cont.) (2) PRINCIPLES OF ADJUSTMENT (cont.) c. ADJUSTMENT AND TRANSLATION OF FOREIGN SUBSIDIARIES FINANCIAL STATEMENTS The financial statements of Subsidiaries operating abroad, which act as an integral operation of the Group, are prepared in U.S. dollars and translated into NIS based on the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar on the balance sheet date. B. PRINCIPLES OF CONSOLIDATION The consolidated financial statements include consolidation of the consolidated financial statements of all Subsidiaries. Material inter-company balances and transactions of and between Subsidiaries have been fully eliminated. The data included in the consolidated financial statements is based on audited financial statements of the Subsidiaries included therein. The excess cost of an investment in a Subsidiary in Turkey over the net book value upon acquisition of that Subsidiary is allocated to fixed assets and is amortized at the rate applicable to those assets, or upon their realization. The unallocated excess cost reflects goodwill, which is presented in the balance sheet as "other assets" and amortized by the straight-line method over 15 years due to the unique economic conditions relating to that Subsidiary and the expected economic benefit period from its acquisition. C. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS Cash and cash equivalents include bank deposits, available for immediate withdrawal, as well as unrestricted short-term deposits with maturities of less than three months from the date of deposit. D. ALLOWANCE FOR DOUBTFUL ACCOUNTS The allowance for doubtful accounts is generally computed as percentage from the relevant balances, on the basis of historical experience, with the addition of a specific provision in respect of accounts, which on management estimate are doubtful of collection. E. INVENTORIES Inventories are presented at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined as follows: Finished products - Based on actual production cost. Raw, auxiliary materials and other - Based on moving-average basis. -9- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (cont.) F. INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES Investments in Subsidiaries are presented using the equity method based on their audited financial statements. In relation to excess cost of investment in Subsidiary in Turkey, see B above. G. FIXED ASSETS Fixed assets are presented at cost less accumulated depreciation and amortization. Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method at rates considered adequate to depreciate the assets over their estimated useful lives. Amortization of leasehold improvements is computed over the shorter of the term of the lease, including any option period, where the Company intends to exercise such option, or their useful life. The annual depreciation and amortization rates are: % - Buildings 2.5-4 Leasehold improvements 10-25 Machinery and equipment 5-10 Motor vehicles 15-20 Office furniture and equipment 10-33 IMPAIRMENT OF LONG-LIVED ASSETS Management reviews long-lived assets on a periodic basis, as well as when such a review is required based upon relevant circumstances, to determine whether events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of such assets may not be recoverable. According to the Israeli Accounting Standards Board's Standard No.15, "Impairment of Assets", an asset's recoverable value is the higher of the asset's net selling price and the asset's value in use, the latter being equal to the asset's discounted expected cash flows. If applicable, an impairment loss is recorded at the amount in which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its recoverable value. The adoption of Standard No. 15, which came effective commencing January 1, 2003, had no impact on the Group's financial position and results of operations. H. OTHER ASSETS - GOODWILL Goodwill derived from the acquisition of Subsidiary in Turkey is amortized based on the straight line method over 15 years (see also B above). Impairment examinations and recognition are performed and determined based on the accounting policy outlined in G above. I. DEFERRED INCOME TAXES The Group records deferred taxes in respect of temporary differences between the carrying values of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and their values for tax purposes, including depreciation differences on leased property and fixed assets. The Group records deferred-tax assets in respect of temporary difference as well as in respect of carry-forward tax losses so long as it is probable that those assets will be realized in the foreseeable future. The deferred taxes are computed by the tax rates expected to be in effect at realization, as they are known at the balance sheet date. -10- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (cont.) I. DEFERRED INCOME TAXES (cont.) The computation of deferred taxes has not taken into account taxes that would have been applicable in case of future realization of investments in Subsidiaries, since the Group does not contemplate such realization in the foreseeable future. Moreover, the computation also excludes deferred taxes in respect of dividends distribution within the Group for cases in which such dividend distributions are expected to be tax-exempt. J. DIVIDENDS Dividends proposed or declared subsequent to the balance-sheet date, but prior to the financial statements approval date, are presented as a separate component of shareholders' equity. K. REVENUE RECOGNITION Revenues are recognized upon shipment, when title has been transferred and collectibility is reasonably assured. Revenues are net of sales incentives, primarily: bonuses granted to chains as a percentage of their purchases (target bonus); volume discounts; and coupons distributed to customers entitling price discounts. An accrual for estimated returns and sales incentives, computed primarily on the basis of historical experience, is recorded at the time revenues are recognized and deducted from revenues. L. EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings per share are computed based on the weighted average number of paid up capital shares during the year. M. EXCHANGE RATES AND LINKAGE BASIS (1) Balances in foreign currency or linked thereto are included in the financial statements based on the representative exchange rates, as published by the Bank of Israel, that were prevailing at the balance sheet date. (2) Following are the changes in the representative exchange rate of the U.S. dollar vis-a-vis the NIS and the Turkish Lira, and in the CPI: REPRESENTATIVE TURKISH LIRA EXCHANGE CPI EXCHANGE RATE WITH THE U.S. "IN RESPECT RATE OF THE DOLLAR DOLLAR OF" AS OF (NIS PER $1) (TL'000 PER $1) (IN POINTS) ------------ --------------- ----------- December 31, 2003 4.379 1,393 178.58 December 31, 2002 4.737 1,640 182.02 December 31, 2001 4.416 1,447 170.91 INCREASE (DECREASE) DURING THE YEAR ENDED: % % % ------------ --------------- ----------- December 31, 2003 (7.6) (15.0) (1.9) December 31, 2002 7.3 13.3 6.5 December 31, 2001 9.3 115.3 1.4 (3) Exchange-rate differences are charged to operations as incurred. -11- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 2 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (cont.) N. RECLASSIFICATION Certain amounts in prior years' financial statements have been reclassified in order to conform to the 2003 presentation. O. SUPPLIER DISCOUNTS Ongoing discounts granted by suppliers, as well as year end discounts, in respect of which no commitments to meet given targets are required by the Group, are included in the financial statements upon the execution of purchases that grant the Group said discounts. Supplier discounts contingent upon the Group's fulfillment of certain targets, such as meeting a minimal annual volume (in quantities or amount), or an increase in purchases over previous periods, are included in the financial statements in proportion to Group's purchases from suppliers during the reported period, which advance the Group towards the stated targets, only if it is expected that those targets will be reached and the discounts can reasonably be estimated. The estimate of meeting the targets is based, inter-alia, on historical experience, Group's relationships established with the suppliers and the estimated volume of purchases during the remaining reported period. P. RECENT ACCOUNTING STANDARDS - CESSATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ADJUSTMENT, AND EFFECT OF CHANGES IN EXCHANGE RATES In October 2001, the Israeli Accounting Standards Board issued Standard No. 12, Cessation of Financial Statements Adjustment. According to this Standard, as amended by Standard No. 17 in November 2002, the adjustment of financial statements for inflation or exchange rate of foreign currency will cease for reporting periods commencing January 1, 2004. Through December 31, 2003, the Group prepared dollar-linked financial statements, in accordance with the pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. The adjusted amounts presented in the December 31, 2003 balance-sheet will serve as the opening nominal balances as of January 1, 2004. In October 2001, the Israeli Accounting Standards Board issued Standard No. 13, Effect of Changes in Foreign Currency Exchange Rates. This Standard addresses the translation of transactions denominated in foreign currency, as well as the translation of financial statements of a foreign operation, for inclusion in the financial statements of the reporting company. Standard No. 13, as amended by Standard No. 17 in November 2002, will become effective for reporting periods subsequent to December 31, 2003. The implementation of Standards No. 12 and 13 will mainly affect financing income and expenses items. -12- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 3 - CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------ ------------------ DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------------------ 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------ ------------------ In NIS 527 597 520 596 In foreign currencies (primarily the U.S. dollar) 36,813 20,733 31,125 10,236 ------ ------ ------ ------ 37,340 21,330 31,645 10,832 ------ ------ ------ ------ NOTE 4 - TRADE RECEIVABLES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY -------------------- ------------------- DECEMBER 31, ---------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------- ------- ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------- ------------------- COMPOSITION: Domestic Open accounts 154,617 133,529 - - Checks receivable 34,421 29,827 - - Related parties 348 359 60,820 33,392 ------- ------- ------ ------ 189,386 163,715 60,820 33,392 Foreign Open accounts 47,697 23,016 5,699 778 Related parties 206 717 8,191 7,057 ------- ------- ------ ------ 237,289 187,448 74,710 41,227 Less - allowance for doubtful accounts 7,310 4,880 42 51 ------- ------- ------ ------ 229,979 182,568 74,668 41,176 ======= ======= ====== ====== The Company's products are marketed principally by its Subsidiaries. NOTE 5 - OTHER RECEIVABLES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------ ------------------ DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------------------ 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------ ------------------ Deferred taxes (Note 22D) 5,518 3,985 1,769 2,040 Prepaid expenses 2,908 3,021 1,570 1,373 Advances to suppliers 3,074 837 2,128 837 Value added taxes 236 - - - Income tax advances, net 1,467 1,226 878 - Loans to supplier and employees 477 1,077 262 915 Other 542 428 1,272 1,554 ------ ------ ------ ------ 14,222 10,574 7,879 6,719 ====== ====== ===== ===== -13- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 6 - INVENTORIES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------ ------------------ DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------------------ 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------ ------------------ Raw and auxiliary materials 48,482 36,708 34,293 22,428 Finished goods 29,087 38,546 10,969 9,786 Spare parts and other 15,095 11,173 13,277 10,078 ------ ------ ------ ------ 92,664 86,427 58,539 42,292 ====== ====== ====== ====== NOTE 7 - LONG-TERM DEPOSITS CONSOLIDATED COMPANY --------------------- --------------------- DECEMBER 31, INTEREST ---------------------------------------------- RATE 2003 2002 2003 2002 -------- ------- -------- ------ --------- % (*) NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS -------- --------------------- --------------------- A. COMPOSITION Linked to the U.S. dollar 1.16-2.69 77,946 87,141 7,882 17,077 Less - current maturities 7,882 9,195 7,882 9,195 ------ ------ ----- ----- 70,064 77,946 - 7,882 ====== ====== ===== ===== (*) Annual average interest rate as of December 31, 2003. -14- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 7 - LONG-TERM DEPOSITS (cont.) B. The balance of the long-term deposits as of December 31, 2003 is repayable as follows: NIS IN THOUSANDS --------- 2004 - current maturities 7,882 Thereafter - see D below 70,064 ------ 77,946 C. The deposits are held as collateral for long-term loans received by Subsidiaries (see Note 15C). D. The deposit is linked to the U.S. dollar and bears interest at a rate of 0.994% as of December 31, 2003. The deposit is subject to re-deposit every two years. NOTE 8 - CAPITAL NOTE OF SHAREHOLDER The capital note of AIPM, denominated in NIS, is not linked and does not bear interest. Repayment date will be mutually agreed upon. The erosion or increase in value of the capital note was charged to capital reserves until March 31, 2000 (the date on which AIPM ceased to be the controlling shareholder). NOTE 9 - INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES COMPANY --------------------------- DECEMBER 31, --------------------------- 2003 2002 ------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------- A. COMPOSITION Cost of shares 972 972 Equity in post-acquisition earnings, net 190,860 153,442 Capital notes (*) 4,205 4,205 ------- ------- 196,037 158,619 ======= ======= (*) The non-interest bearing capital notes, denominated in U.S. dollar, are considered part of the Company's investments in the Subsidiaries. Repayment dates have not yet been determined. For purpose of the adjusted financial statements (see Note 2A), the capital notes are treated as a non-monetary item. -15- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 9 - INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES (cont.) CONSOLIDATED --------------------------- DECEMBER 31, --------------------------- 2003 2002 ------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------- B. GOODWILL: Cost 41,532 41,532 Less - accumulated amortization 12,459 9,691 ------ ------ 29,073 31,841 ====== ====== C. INVESTMENT IN OVISAN As of December 31, 2003, the Group's investment in the Turkish Subsidiary amounted to NIS 66,933 thousand (including goodwill in the net amount of NIS 29,073 thousand). D. CONSOLIDATED SUBSIDIARIES The consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2003, include the financial statements of the following Subsidiaries: OWNERSHIP AND CONTROL AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2003 ------------ % Rakefet Marketing and Trade Services Ltd. ("Rakefet") (*) 79.7 Subsidiaries of Rakefet: Hogla-Kimberly Marketing Ltd. ("Marketing") (**) 99.5 Shikma Ltd. ("Shikma") (**) 99.0 Mollet Marketing Ltd. ("Mollet") 100.0 H-K Overseas (Holland) B.V 100.0 Subsidiaries of H-K Overseas (Holland) B.V.: Ovisan Sihhi Bez Sanai ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi ("Ovisan") 100.0 Hogla-Kimberly Holding Anonim Sirketi 100.0 (*) The remaining ownership and control of Rakefet are held by AIPM group (10.1%) and by KC (10.2%). (**) The remaining ownership and control of Marketing and Shikma are held by the Company. -16- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 10 - FIXED ASSETS OFFICE MACHINERY FURNITURE LEASEHOLD AND MOTOR AND CONSOLIDATED BUILDINGS (1) IMPROVEMENTS EQUIPMENT VEHICLES EQUIPMENT TOTAL (2) ------ ----- ------- ------ ------ ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS COST: Balance - January 1, 2003 54,619 8,941 367,463 21,168 11,953 464,144 Changes during 2003: Additions 250 517 19,452 588 1,100 21,907 Dispositions - (190) (2,297) (2,708) (1,112) (6,307) ------ ----- ------- ------ ------ ------- Balance - December 31, 2003 54,869 9,268 384,618 19,048 11,941 479,744 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION: Balance - January 1, 2003 14,855 4,771 150,568 14,651 8,583 193,428 Changes during 2003: Additions 530 514 17,947 2,749 705 22,445 Dispositions - (188) (2,024) (2,417) (1,068) (5,697) ------ ----- ------- ------ ------ ------- Balance - December 31, 2003 15,385 5,097 166,491 14,983 8,220 210,176 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= NET BOOK VALUE: December 31, 2003 39,484 4,171 218,127 4,065 3,721 269,568 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= December 31, 2002 39,764 4,170 216,895 6,517 3,370 270,716 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= COMPANY COST: Balance - January 1, 2003 25,209 5,893 330,217 3,688 3,004 368,011 Changes during 2003: Additions - 219 14,631 53 201 15,104 Dispositions - - (1,759) (582) - (2,341) ------ ----- ------- ------ ------ ------- Balance - December 31, 2003 25,209 6,112 343,089 3,159 3,205 380,774 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION: Balance - January 1, 2003 11,812 3,518 130,439 3,492 2,378 151,639 Changes during 2003: Additions - 215 14,189 153 232 14,789 Dispositions - - (1,696) (569) - (2,265) ------ ----- ------- ------ ------ ------- Balance - December 31, 2003 11,812 3,733 142,932 3,076 2,610 164,163 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= NET BOOK VALUE: December 31, 2003 13,397 2,379 200,157 83 595 216,611 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= December 31, 2002 13,397 2,375 199,778 196 626 216,372 ====== ===== ======= ====== ====== ======= (1) Buildings include industrial buildings on lands leased by the Company from AIPM (until 2004). (2) The major fixed assets of the Group are located in Israel. -17- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 11 - TRADE PAYABLES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY -------------------- -------------------- DECEMBER 31, ---------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------- ------- ------- ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------- -------------------- In Israeli currency Open accounts 78,509 66,279 34,206 30,159 Related parties 13,682 10,840 114,455 46,310 In foreign currency Open accounts 37,294 26,509 20,804 15,953 Related parties 10,070 24,001 5,115 3,148 ------- ------- ------- ------ 139,555 127,629 174,580 95,570 ======= ======= ======= ====== NOTE 12 - OTHER PAYABLES AND ACCRUED EXPENSES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY --------------- -------------- DECEMBER 31, -------------------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------- -------------- Accrued income taxes, net of advances 8,663 9,042 - 9,817 Accrued payroll and related expenses 20,531 19,925 10,474 11,713 Value Added Tax 4,779 547 - - Advances from customers 1,085 1,610 32 30 Other 2,574 1,378 139 88 ------ ------ ------ ------ 37,632 32,502 10,645 21,648 ====== ====== ====== ====== NOTE 13 - LONG-TERM BANK LOANS INTEREST CONSOLIDATED RATE DECEMBER 31, ------ ------------------- % (*) 2003 2002 ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------- A. COMPOSITION In U.S. dollar (**) 1.74 108,858 107,286 In Euro 3.75 2,627 - Less - current maturities 15,147 24,960 ------ ------ 96,338 82,326 ====== ====== (*) Annual average interest rate as of December 31, 2003 (**) As of December 31, 2003, NIS 38,794 thousand bear interest based on Libor plus 1.55%. B. MATURITIES (NIS in thousands) 2004 - current maturities 15,147 2005 26,274 Thereafter - see C below 70,064 ------- 111,485 ======= C. Subject to renewal every two years - see Note 7D. D. Liens - see Note 15C. -18- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 14 - SEVERANCE PAY Obligations of the Group for severance pay to its employees are covered by current payments to pension and severance funds. Accumulated amounts in the pension and severance funds are not under the control or administration of the Group, and accordingly, neither those amounts nor the corresponding accruals are reflected in the financial statements. NOTE 15 - COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES A. COMMITMENTS (1) The Group is obligated to pay royalties to a shareholder - see Note 23B. (2) The Company and its Subsidiaries lease certain of their facilities under operating leases for varying periods with renewal options. Future minimum lease rentals as of December 31, 2003 are as follows: CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ----------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------- ------- 2004 13,918 6,477 2005 6,430 - 2006 6,430 - 2007 6,430 - 2008 and thereafter 28,936 - ---------- ------- 62,144 6,477 ========== ======= B. GUARANTEES (1) The Company is contingently liable in respect of a guarantee securing bank loans provided to a Subsidiary, the balance of which as of December 31, 2003 amounted to NIS 33,280 thousand. (2) As part of their normal course of business, the Subsidiaries provided third parties with bank guarantees for contract performance, the balance of which as of December 31, 2003 amounted to NIS 2,022 thousand. C. LIENS As a collateral for long-term loans given to Subsidiaries, the Group recorded a lien on its bank deposits, in the amount of NIS 77,946 thousand as of December 31, 2003. D. LEGAL ISSUES In December 2003, certain customers filed a class action complaint against the Company, alleging that the Company reduced the number of items in each certain product packages. The Company has filed a detailed defense motion, presenting its arguments for denying the lawsuit from being recognized as a class action. As of the approval date of the financial statements, court hearings have not yet begun. Based on the opinion of the Company's legal counsel for this matter, due to the very preliminary stage of the proceedings, management is unable, at this stage, to estimate the possible outcome of the lawsuit. However, based on the legal counsels, management believes that the Company has valid arguments to oppose the lawsuit and reasonable basis for denying it from being recognized as a class action. -19- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 16 - SHARE CAPITAL A. As of December 31, 2003 and 2002, share capital is composed of ordinary shares of NIS 1.00 par value each. Authorized - 11,000,000 shares; issued and paid up - 8,263,473 shares. B. Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to participate equally in the payment of cash dividends and bonus share (stock dividend) distributions and, in the event of the liquidation of the Company, in the distribution of assets after satisfaction of liabilities to creditors. Each ordinary share is entitled to one vote on all matters to be voted on by shareholders. NOTE 17 - NET SALES CONSOLIDATED --------------------------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, --------------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 ---- ---- ---- % % % ---- ---- ---- A. SALES TO MAJOR CUSTOMERS Customer A 8.9 11.1 11.9 Customer B 10.1 11.8 12.0 NIS NIS NIS ---- ---- ---- IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------------------------- B. SALES FROM COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS 376,974 311,360 319,277 ======= ======= ======= C. FOREIGN SALES (PRINCIPALLY TURKEY) 106,935 80,184 84,979 ======= ====== ====== NOTE 18 - COST OF SALES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------- ------------------------------------- Purchases (*) 446,008 425,365 441,782 178,339 122,861 130,930 Salaries and related expenses 67,516 55,999 57,349 56,812 46,389 49,618 Manufacturing expenses 79,810 55,834 51,245 73,281 51,229 47,662 Depreciation 18,221 14,207 12,764 15,309 11,423 10,739 ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- 611,555 551,405 563,140 323,741 231,902 238,949 Change in finished goods inventory 9,459 3,358 (3,967) (1,183) 1,194 4,642 ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- 621,014 554,763 559,173 322,558 233,096 243,591 ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= ======= (*) The purchases of the Company are related to manufacturing operations. Consolidated purchases in excess of Company purchases relate principally to commercial operations. -20- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 19 - SELLING EXPENSES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY --------------------------------- ------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, --------------------------------- ------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------- ---------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------- ------------------------------- Salaries and related expenses 46,887 (*)39,656 (*)43,049 - 16 744 Maintenance and transportation expenses 26,596 24,332 22,966 5,810 3,868 2,703 Advertising and sales promotion 30,371 38,591 41,337 86 46 168 Commissions to distributors 4,571 2,007 3,644 - 453 629 Royalties to a shareholder 15,642 12,220 12,158 1,500 673 561 Depreciation 3,778 4,188 4,741 142 317 547 Other 2,825 2,961 3,238 - - - ------- ---------- ---------- ----- ----- ----- 130,670 (*)123,955 (*)131,133 7,538 5,373 5,352 ======= ========== ========== ===== ===== ===== (*) Reclassified NOTE 20 - GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES CONSOLIDAD COMPANY ------------------------------ ----------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------ ----------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ --------- --------- ----- ----- ----- NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------ ----------------------------- Salaries and related expenses 18,283 (*)13,481 (*)15,913 2,567 2,423 2,404 Administrative and computer services 6,287 6,210 7,380 1,190 1,188 1,636 Services provided by Shareholder 1,161 1,161 1,180 215 736 818 Office maintenance 5,376 2,990 2,961 207 228 254 Depreciation 718 588 751 2 4 4 Goodwill amortization 2,768 2,768 2,768 - - - Other 4,453 2,743 2,426 200 789 1,056 ------ --------- --------- ----- ----- ----- 39,046 (*)29,941 (*)33,379 4,381 5,368 6,172 ====== ========= ========= ===== ===== ===== (*) Reclassified. NOTE 21 - FINANCING INCOME (EXPENSES), NET CONSOLIDATED COMPANY --------------------------------- -------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, --------------------------------- -------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ----- ------ ------ ----- ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------- -------------------------------- Long-term loans (2,111) (2,794) (4,821) - - - ===== ====== ====== ===== ====== ====== Exchange rate differences derived from capital note 2,476 (2,202) (3,015) 2,476 (2,202) (3,015) ===== ====== ====== ===== ====== ====== Long-term and short-term deposits 1,357 1,804 8,504 486 31 1,445 ===== ====== ====== ===== ====== ====== -21- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 22 - INCOME TAXES A. The Company and its Israeli Subsidiaries are subject to the Income Tax Law (Inflationary Adjustments), 1985. Non-Israeli Subsidiaries are subject to income tax provisions of their home country. The Company is an industrial company in conformity with the Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes), 1965. The principal benefit that the Company is entitled to under this law is accelerated depreciation rates and reduced tax rates. During 2002, the Company's program for the establishment of a new facility for manufacturing paper was granted Approved Enterprise status in accordance with the Law for the Encouragement of Capital Investments, 1959, under "alternative benefits" track. The approval program is for total investments of approximately NIS 80 million. According to the terms of the program, income derived from the Approved Enterprise will be tax-exempt for a period of 10 years commencing in the year in which the program is substantially completed. Distribution of dividends from tax exempt profits of the Approved Enterprise will be subject to income tax at a rate equal to the income tax rate of the Approved Enterprise had the Company not elected the alternative benefits track. The Company completed the investments relating to the new facility and commenced its operations during 2003. CONSOLIDATED COMPANY --------------------------------- --------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, --------------------------------- --------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ B. COMPOSITION NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------- --------------------------------- Current taxes 10,878 18,904 34,150 - 15,774 26,421 Taxes in respect of prior years 1,437 (744) (701) 1,358 (744) (551) Deferred taxes 8,251 1,072 3,028 10,417 1,046 2,508 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 20,566 19,232 36,477 11,775 16,076 28,378 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== -22- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 22 - INCOME TAXES (cont.) C. RECONCILIATION OF THE STATUTORY TAX RATE TO THE EFFECTIVE TAX RATE: CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- Income before income taxes 83,954 44,543 79,609 30,610 37,697 76,693 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== Tax computed by statutory tax rate (36%) 30,223 16,035 28,659 11,020 13,570 27,609 TAX INCREMENTS (SAVINGS)DUE TO: Reduced tax rate (mainly for approved enterprise( (1,185) (1,397) (2,882) (918) (1,397) (2,882) Non-deductible expenses 1,874 (*)1,840 (*)2,586 434 248 262 Non-taxable income (65) (*)(2,198) (*)(3,348) - - - Unrecorded deferred taxes in connection with tax loss carry forward - (*)1,074 (*)2,397 - - - Utilization of prior years unrecorded deferred taxes in connection with tax loss carry forward (3,471) - - - - - Unrecorded deferred taxes in connection with submitting consolidated tax returns - - - 2,053 - - Differences arising from basis of measurement (**) (7,629) 3,883 7,449 (1,753) 3,737 2,615 Income taxes for prior years 1,437 (744) (701) 1,358 (744) (551) Other differences, net (618) 739 2,317 (419) 662 1,325 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ 20,566 19,232 36,477 11,775 16,076 28,378 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== (*) Reclassified. (**) U.S. dollar for financial reporting purposes vis-a-vis the Consumer Price Index in Israel and the Turkish Lira for tax purposes. -23- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 22 - INCOME TAXES (cont.) D. DEFERRED INCOME TAXES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------------------------------- ---------------------------------- Balance as of beginning of year 15,659 14,587 11,559 14,552 13,506 10,998 Changes during the year 8,251 1,072 3,028 10,417 1,046 2,508 ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ ------ Balance as of end of year 23,910 15,659 14,587 24,969 14,552 13,506 ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== ====== CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------- -------------------- DECEMBER 31, ----------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------- -------------------- DEFERRED TAXES ARE PRESENTED IN THE BALANCE SHEETS AS FOLLOWS: Long-term liabilities (in respect of depreciable assets) 29,428 19,644 26,738 16,592 Other receivables and prepayments (in respect of temporary differences) - Note 5 (5,518) (3,985) (1,769) (2,040) ------ ------ ------ ------ 23,910 15,659 24,969 14,552 ====== ====== ====== ====== Deferred taxes are computed at rates between 32% and 36%. E. The Company and one of its subsidiaries, are "Industrial Companies" as defined in the Israeli Law for the Encouragement of Industry (Taxes)-1969. Based on this Law, the Company and that subsidiary file consolidated tax returns. F. The Company and its Israeli Subsidiaries possess final tax assessments through 2001. NOTE 23 - RELATED PARTIES AND INTERESTED PARTIES A. BALANCES WITH RELATED PARTIES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY ------------------- -------------------- DECEMBER 31, ----------------------------------------------- 2003 2002 2003 2002 ------ ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------- -------------------- Trade receivables (*) 554 1,076 8,354 242 ====== ====== ====== ====== Capital note - shareholder 32,770 30,294 32,770 30,294 ====== ====== ====== ====== Capital notes - Subsidiaries - - 4,205 4,205 ====== ====== ====== ====== Trade payables (*) 23,752 34,841 24,097 15,965 ====== ====== ====== ====== (*) Company - excludes Subsidiaries -24- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 23 - RELATED PARTIES AND INTERESTED PARTIES (cont.) B. TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES AND SUBSIDIARIES CONSOLIDATED COMPANY --------------------------------- ------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, --------------------------------- ------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------- ------- ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS NIS IN THOUSANDS --------------------------------- ------------------------------- Sales to related parties 6,103 17,646 23,026 4,169 15,247 21,713 Sales to Subsidiaries - - - 358,767 266,614 302,669 Cost of sales 169,469 224,682 207,087 61,703 63,723 51,671 Royalties 15,642 12,220 12,158 1,500 673 561 Other selling expenses (*) - 2,413 3,578 - 451 630 General and administrative expenses (*) 8,201 7,380 8,435 1,428 2,167 2,454 Financing income, net (*) 3,314 2,076 2,339 2,526 1,381 1,268 (*) Company - excludes Subsidiaries (**) The sales to and purchases from related parties are in the ordinary course of business at market prices and customary credit terms. NOTE 24 - DISCLOSURE AND PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS A. CREDIT RISK The revenues of the Group's principal Subsidiaries are derived from two major customers and a large number of smaller customers. Management regularly monitors the balance of trade receivables and the financial statements include an allowance for doubtful accounts based on management's estimation. Taking the aforementioned into consideration, the exposure to credit risk from trade receivables is immaterial. Cash and cash equivalents and long-term deposits (including amounts in foreign currency) are deposited with major banks in Israel and abroad. Therefore, it is not expected that such banks will fail to meet their obligations. B. FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS The carrying value of financial instruments (cash and cash equivalents, deposits, receivables, trade and other payables) did not materially differ from their fair value, unless stated otherwise. -25- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 25 - RECONCILIATION TO US GAAP The consolidated financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles applicable in Israel (Israeli GAAP). The following describes the effects on the Company's financial statements had the Company prepared its financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (US GAAP). A. BALANCE SHEETS According to Israeli GAAP, goodwill is to be amortized over the expected estimated economic life of the asset acquired, while according to US GAAP (SFAS 142), commencing January 2002 goodwill is no longer amortized but rather is reviewed annually (or more frequently if impairment indicators arise) for impairment. Following are the corresponding balance-sheet items presented according to US GAAP with regard to the goodwill associated with the acquisition of Ovisan (see Note 9B) and the other GAAP differences outlined in B. below: As of December 31, 2003 ----------------------------------- AS AS PER REPORTED ADJUSTMENT US GAAP -------- ---------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------- Other assets - Goodwill 29,073 5,536 34,609 Shareholders' equity 412,981 (3,003) 409,978 As of December 31, 2003 ----------------------------------- AS AS PER REPORTED ADJUSTMENT US GAAP -------- ---------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS ----------------------------------- Other assets - Goodwill 31,841 2,768 34,609 Shareholders' equity 389,571 13,060 402,631 B. STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS CONSOLIDATED AND COMPANY ---------------------------------- YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ---------------------------------- 2003 2002 2001 ------ ------ ------ NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------------------------------- Net income under Israeli GAAP 56,253 22,712 41,601 Effect of material differences between Israeli GAAP and US GAAP: Change in basis of measurement from adjusted NIS to nominal NIS (5,694) 19,321 19,601 Amortization of goodwill 2,768 2,768 - Deferred taxes (4,458) (1,016) (483) ------ ------ ------ Net income under US GAAP 48,869 43,785 60,719 ====== ====== ====== -26- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 25 - RECONCILIATION TO US GAAP (cont.) C. CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY IN ACCORDANCE WITH US GAAP NIS IN THOUSANDS ---------------- Shareholders' equity under US GAAP as of January 1, 2003 402,631 Dividend (36,499) Translation adjustments (5,023) Net income for the year under US GAAP 48,869 ------- Shareholders' equity under US GAAP as of December 31, 2003 409,978 ======= NOTE 26 - COMPANY'S FINANCIAL STATEMENTS IN NOMINAL VALUES A. BALANCE SHEETS COMPANY -------------------- DECEMBER 31, -------------------- 2003 2002 ------- ------- CURRENT ASSETS NIS IN THOUSANDS -------------------- Cash and cash equivalents 31,645 11,718 Current maturities of long-term bank deposits 7,882 9,947 Trade receivables 74,668 44,542 Other receivables 6,139 5,085 Inventories 58,539 45,749 ------- ------- 178,873 117,041 ======= ======= LONG-TERM INVESTMENTS Long-term deposit - 8,527 Capital note from shareholder 32,770 32,770 Investments in Subsidiaries 189,340 159,658 ------- ------- 222,110 200,955 ======= ======= FIXED ASSETS, NET 203,572 200,933 ======= ======= 604,555 518,929 ======= ======= CURRENT LIABILITIES Short-term bank credit 1,087 - Trade payables 174,580 103,384 Other payables and accrued expenses 10,645 23,418 ------- ------- 186,312 126,802 ======= ======= SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY 418,243 392,127 ------- ------- 604,555 518,929 ======= ======= -27- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 26 - COMPANY'S FINANCIAL STATEMENTS IN NOMINAL VALUES (cont.) B. STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, ------------------------------------ 2003 2002 2001 ------- ------- ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------ Net sales 387,019 308,566 318,000 Cost of sales 334,764 245,936 229,517 ------- ------- ------- GROSS PROFIT 52,255 62,630 88,483 Selling expenses 7,827 6,038 5,151 General and administrative expenses 4,327 5,762 6,035 ------- ------- ------- OPERATING PROFIT 40,101 50,830 77,297 Financing income (expenses), net (5,995) 3,676 8,283 Other income, net 255 254 515 ------- ------- ------- INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES 34,361 54,760 86,095 Income taxes 1,428 16,344 25,154 ------- ------- ------- INCOME AFTER INCOME TAXES 32,933 38,416 60,941 Equity in net earnings of Subsidiaries 29,682 8,881 1,080 ------- ------- ------- NET INCOME FOR THE YEAR 62,615 47,297 62,021 ======= ======= ======= -28- HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS NOTE 26 - COMPANY'S FINANCIAL STATEMENTS IN NOMINAL VALUES (cont.) C. STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY DIVIDEND DECLARED AFTER SHARE CAPITAL RETAINED BALANCE CAPITAL RESERVES EARNINGS SHEET DATE TOTAL ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- NIS IN THOUSANDS ------------------------------------------------------------- BALANCE - JANUARY 1, 2001 8,263 132,127 189,116 - 329,506 CHANGES DURING 2001: Dividend declared (44,160) (44,160) Net income for the year 62,021 62,021 ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- BALANCE - DECEMBER 31, 2001 8,263 132,127 206,977 - 347,367 CHANGES DURING 2002: Dividend declared after balance-sheet date (35,528) 35,528 - Exchange rate differences of prior year declared dividend (2,537) (2,537) Net income for the year 47,297 47,297 ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- BALANCE - DECEMBER 31, 2002 8,263 132,127 216,209 35,528 392,127 CHANGES DURING 2003: Dividend paid (35,528) (35,528) Exchange rate differences of prior year declared dividend (971) (971) Net income for the year 62,615 62,615 ----- ------- ------- ------ ------- BALANCE - DECEMBER 31, 2003 8,263 132,127 277,853 - 418,243 ===== ======= ======= ====== ======= -29- ERNST & YOUNG Kost Forer Gabbay & Phone: 972-3-6232525 Kasierer Fax:972-3-5622555 3 Aminadav St. Tel-Aviv 67067, Israel REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS To the Shareholders of CARMEL CONTAINER SYSTEMS LTD. We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of Carmel Container Systems Ltd. ("the Company") and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2002 and 2003, and the related consolidated statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the financial statements of subsidiaries whose assets included in the consolidation constitute approximately 10% and 10% of total consolidated assets as of December 31, 2002 and 2003, respectively, and whose revenues included in the consolidation constitute approximately 29%, 9% and 9% of total consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2001, 2002 and 2003, respectively. Those financial statements were audited by other auditors whose reports have been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to amounts included for those subsidiaries is based on the report of the other auditors. The financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2001 of one of the subsidiaries referred to above whose revenues included in the consolidation constitute approximately 9% of total consolidated revenues for the years ended December 31, 2001, were audited by Luboshitz Kasierer, a member of Andersen Worldwide, who issued an unqualified opinion in their report dated January 28, 2002. Andersen Worldwide has ceased operating as a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission Practice Section of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits and the reports of other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audit and the reports of other auditors, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Company and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2002 and 2003, and the consolidated results of their operations and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in Israel, which differ in certain respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States (see Note 21 to the consolidated financial statements). /s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER Tel-Aviv, Israel KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER March 9, 2004 A Member of Ernst & Young Global Kost Forer Gabbay & Kasierer is a member practice of Ernst & Young Global ERNST & YOUNG AUDITORS' REPORT To the Shareholders of TMM INTEGRATED RECYCLING INDUSTRIES LTD. We have audited the balance sheets of TMM Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. ("the Company") as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the consolidated balance sheets as of such dates and the related statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity, and cash flows - of the Company and consolidated - for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2003 (not presented separately herein). These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. The financial statements of the Company and consolidated for the year ended December 31, 2001 were audited by other auditors whose report dated March 4, 2002, expressed an unqualified opinion on those statements. We did not audit the financial statements of certain subsidiaries, whose assets included in consolidation constitute approximately 4% and 8.4% of total consolidated assets as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and whose revenues included in consolidation constitute approximately 7% and 11% of total consolidated revenues for each of the years ended on those dates, respectively. Furthermore, we did not audit the financial statements of an affiliate, the investment in which on the equity basis of accounting totaled approximately NIS 19,829 thousand as of December 31, 2003 and the Company's share in its losses totaled approximately NIS 14 thousand for the year then ended. The financial statements of those companies were audited by other auditors, whose reports have been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to amounts included for those companies, is based on the reports of the other auditors. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and in Israel, including those prescribed by the Auditors' Regulations (Auditor's Mode of Performance), 1973. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits and the reports of other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of other auditors, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position - of the Company and consolidated - as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of operations and cash flows - of the Company and consolidated - for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in Israel. Furthermore, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above are prepared in accordance with the Securities Regulations (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements), 1993. As explained in Note 2a, the financial statements referred to above are presented in values adjusted for the changes in the general purchasing power of the Israeli currency, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. /s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER Tel-Aviv, Israel KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER March 3, 2004 A Member of Ernst & Young Global -1- ERNST & YOUNG REPORT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS ON RECONCILIATION OF ISRAELI GAAP TO U.S. GAAP T.M.M. Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. Tel Aviv We have audited the consolidated financial statements of T.M.M. Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. ("the Company") as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2003, (not presented separately herein) and have issued our report thereon dated March 3, 2004 (included elsewhere in this Form 20-F). Our audits also included the Reconciliations of Israeli GAAP to U.S. GAAP for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2003 (not presented separately herein). These Reconciliations are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion based on our audits. We did not audit the financial statements of certain subsidiaries, whose assets included in consolidation constitute approximately 4% and 8.4% of total consolidated assets as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and whose revenues included in consolidation constitute approximately 7% and 11% of total consolidated revenues for each of the years ended on those dates, respectively. Furthermore, we did not audit the financial statements of an affiliate, the investment in which on the equity basis of accounting totaled approximately NIS 19,829 thousand as of December 31, 2003 and the Company's share in its losses totaled approximately NIS 14 thousand for the year then ended. We have been furnished with the reports of other auditors with respect to the Reconciliations of the aforementioned subsidiaries and affiliate. In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of other auditors, the Reconciliations referred to above, when considered in relation to the basic financial statements taken as a whole, present fairly in all material respects the information set forth therein. /s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER Tel-Aviv, Israel KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER March 3, 2004 A Member of Ernst & Young Global -2- INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT To the Shareholders of T.M.M. Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of T.M.M. Integrated Recycling Industries Ltd. ("the Company") as of December 31, 2001 and 2000 and the consolidated balance sheets as of those dates, and the statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - for each of the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's Board of Directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. The Company's financial statements as of December 31, 1999 were audited by other auditors, whose unqualified report was issued on March 30, 2000. We did not audit the financial statements of proportionately consolidated subsidiaries, whose assets included in consolidation constitute 7.3% and 7.5% of total consolidated assets at December 31, 2001 and 2000, respectively, and whose revenues included in consolidation constitute 9.2% and 9.6% of total consolidated revenues for the years then ended respectively. The financial statements of those companies were audited by other auditors, whose reports have been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to amounts included for those companies, is based solely on the reports of the other auditors. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in the United States of America and in Israel, including those prescribed by the Israeli Auditors (Mode of Performance) Regulations, 1973. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the board of directors and management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audit and the reports of the other auditors, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position - of the Company and on a consolidated basis as of December 31, 2001and 2000, and the results of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - for each of the years then ended, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles. In addition, in our opinion, these financial statements are presented in accordance with the Israeli Securities Regulations (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements), 1993. As explained in Note 2A, these financial statements have been prepared in values adjusted to reflect the changes in the general purchasing power of the Israeli currency, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. /s/ Brightman Almagor & Co. --------------------------- Brightman Almagor & Co. Certified Public Accountants Tel Aviv, March 4, 2002 ERNST & YOUNG AUDITORS' REPORT To the Shareholders of BARTHELEMI HOLDINGS LTD. We have audited the balance sheets of Barthelemi Holdings Ltd. ("the Company") as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the consolidated balance sheets as of such dates and the related statements of operations, changes in shareholders' equity, and cash flows - of the Company and consolidated - for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2003 (not presented separately herein). These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the financial statements of certain subsidiaries, whose assets included in consolidation constitute approximately 4% and 7.4% of total consolidated assets as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, respectively, and whose revenues included in consolidation constitute approximately 7% and 11% of total consolidated revenues for each of the years ended on those dates, respectively. Furthermore, we did not audit the financial statements of an affiliate, the investment in which on the equity basis of accounting totaled approximately NIS 19,829 thousand as of December 31, 2003 and the Company's equity in its losses totaled approximately NIS 14 thousand for the year then ended. The financial statements of those companies were audited by other auditors, whose reports have been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to amounts included for those companies, is based on the reports of the other auditors. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and accordance with generally accepted accounting standards in Israel, including those prescribed by the Auditors' Regulations (Auditor's Mode of Performance), 1973. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits and the reports of other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audits and the reports of other auditors, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position - of the Company and consolidated - as of December 31, 2003 and 2002, and the results of operations, changes in equity and cash flows - of the Company and consolidated - for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in Israel which differ in certain respects from those followed in the United States, as described in Note 23 to the financial statements. As explained in Note 2a, the financial statements referred to above are presented in values adjusted for the changes in the general purchasing power of the Israeli currency, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. /s/ KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER Tel-Aviv, Israel KOST FORER GABBAY & KASIERER March 3, 2004 A Member of Ernst & Young Global BAR-LEV, MERRARI, GEVA & CO. C.P.A (ISR.) To the shareholders of EFFEH Landfill Ltd We have audited the financial statements of EFFEH Landfill Ltd. (hereafter - the Company): balance sheets as of December 31, 2003 and the related statements of income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's board of directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and in Israel, including those prescribed by the Israeli Auditors (Mode of Performance) Regulations, 1973. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the Company's board of directors and management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audits, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2003 and the results of operations, the changes in shareholders' equity and the cash flows of the Company for the year ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in Israel. As explained in note 2, the financial statements referred to above are presented in values adjusted for the change in the general purchasing power of the Israel currency, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. Accounting principles generally accepted in Israel vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The application of the latter would have no significant affected the determination of the results of operations for the year ended December 31, 2003. The above opinion is a mere translation of the Hebrew version of the opinion as given in the aforementioned date. /s/ BAR-LEV, MERRARI, GEVA & CO. BAR-LEV, MERRARI, GEVA & CO. Certified Public Accountants (Israel) Tel Aviv, February 9, 2004 A MEMBER OF DFK MUALEM GLEZER INBAR JUNIO & Co INTERNATIONAL CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS (Isr.). TEL AVIV, 30 Yavets St. P.O.B. 29145 Tel- Aviv, 61291 Tel: 972-3-5100124, Fax: 5176024 E-mail : cpa@netvision.net.il -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- To the shareholders of M.M.M United Landfill Industries (1998) Ltd We have audited the financial statements of M.M.M United Landfill Industries (1998) Ltd. (hereafter - the Company): balance sheets as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the related statements of income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's board of directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and in Israel, including those prescribed by the Israeli Auditors (Mode of Performance) Regulations, 1973. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the Company's board of directors and management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, based on our audits, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2003 and 2002 and the results of operations, the changes in shareholders' equity and the cash flows of the Company for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in Israel. As explained in note 2b, the financial statements referred to above are presented in values adjusted for the change in the general purchasing power of the Israel currency, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. Accounting principles generally accepted in Israel vary in certain significant respects from accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. The application of the latter would have no significant affected the determination of the results of operations for the three years in the period ended December 31, 2003. The above opinion is a mere translation of the Hebrew version of the opinion as given in the aforementioned date. /s/ Mualem Glezer Inbar Junio & Co. Mualem Glezer Inbar Junio & Co. Certified Public Accountants (Israel) Tel Aviv, January 28, 2004 ANDERSEN Luboshitz Kasierer AUDITORS' REPORT TO THE SHAREHOLDERS OF HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD. We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of HOGLA-KIMBERLY LTD (the Company) and the consolidated balance sheets of the Company and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the related statements of income, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows - Company and consolidated - for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company's Board of Directors and management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in the United States and in Israel, including those prescribed under the Auditors' Regulations (Auditor's Mode of Performance), 1973. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by the Board of Directors and management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion. In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - as of December 31, 2001 and 2000, and the results of operations, changes in shareholders' equity and cash flows - of the Company and on a consolidated basis - for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2001, in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles in Israel (as to reconciliation to generally accepted accounting principles in the United States, see Note 25). Also, in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above are prepared in conformity with the Securities Regulations (Preparation of Annual Financial Statements), 1993. As described in Note 2A, the financial statements referred to above have been prepared in values adjusted for changes in the general purchasing power of the Israeli currency as measured by the changes in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar in relation to the shekel, in accordance with pronouncements of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants in Israel. Without qualifying our opinion, we draw attention to Note 2L(2) to the financial statements regarding the presentation of a dividend declared subsequent to balance sheet date. /s/ Luboshitz Kasierer ----------------------------------- Luboshitz Kasierer Certified Public Accountants (Isr.) Tel-Aviv, March 4, 2002