utmedprod10q093008.htm


 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C.  20549

FORM 10-Q

Quarterly Report Under Section 13 or 15(d) of
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934



For quarter ended: September 30, 2008
Commission File No. 0-11178


UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
(Exact name of Registrant as specified in its charter)


            UTAH           
87-0342734
(State or other jurisdiction of
(I.R.S. Employer
incorporation or organization)
Identification No.)


7043 South 300 West
Midvale, Utah  84047
Address of principal executive offices


Registrant's telephone number:  (801) 566-1200


      Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Sections 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 o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer o   Accelerated filer x      Non-accelerated filer  Smaller reporting company o

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes o   No x

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock as of November 6, 2008: 3,825,000.

 
 

 

UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
INDEX TO FORM 10-Q




PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
PAGE
       
 
Item 1.
Financial Statements
 
       
   
Consolidated Condensed Balance Sheets as of
 
   
September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007
1
       
   
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Income for the three
 
   
and nine months ended September 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007
2
       
   
Consolidated Condensed Statements of Cash Flows for the
 
   
nine months ended September 30, 2008 and September 30, 2007
3
       
   
Notes to Consolidated Condensed Financial Statements
4
       
 
Item 2.
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of
 
   
Financial Condition and Results of Operations
7
       
 
Item 3.
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
12
       
 
Item 4.
Controls and Procedures
12
       
       
PART II – OTHER INFORMATION
 
       
 
Item 1A.
Risk Factors
13
       
 
Item 2.
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
13
       
 
Item 6.
Exhibits
14
       
       
SIGNATURES
14

 
 

 

PART I - FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1. Financial Statements
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED BALANCE SHEETS AS OF
 
SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND DECEMBER 31, 2007
 
(in thousands)
 
   
(unaudited)
  
(audited)
 
ASSETS
 
  SEPTEMBER 30, 2008
  
  DECEMBER 31, 2007
 
        
Current assets:
      
Cash
 $883  $1,251 
Investments, available-for-sale
  21,512   21,121 
Accounts & other receivables - net
  3,694   3,905 
Inventories
  3,615   3,153 
Other current assets
  501   502 
Total current assets
  30,205   29,931 
          
Property and equipment - net
  8,278   8,606 
          
Goodwill
  7,191   7,191 
          
Other intangible assets
  2,646   2,640 
Other intangible assets - accumulated amortization
  (2,420)  (2,382)
Other intangible assets - net
  226   258 
          
TOTAL
 $45,900  $45,986 
          
LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
        
          
Current liabilities:
        
Accounts payable
 $544  $393 
Accrued expenses
  2,302   2,349 
Current portion of note payable
  298   423 
Total current liabilities
  3,144   3,165 
          
Note payable
  2,296   3,689 
          
Deferred income taxes
  379   343 
Total liabilities
  5,819   7,197 
          
Stockholders' equity:
        
Preferred stock - $.01 par value; authorized - 5,000
     
  shares; no shares issued or outstanding
        
Common stock - $.01 par value; authorized - 50,000
     
     shares; issued - September 30, 2008, 3,857 shares
     
  and December 31, 2007, 3,905 shares
  39   39 
Accumulated other comprehensive income
  (975)  (789)
Retained earnings
  41,017   39,539 
Total stockholders' equity
  40,081   38,789 
          
TOTAL
 $45,900  $45,986 
see notes to consolidated condensed financial statements
     
1

 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME FOR THE
 
THREE AND NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2007
 
(in thousands, except per share amounts - unaudited)
 
   
   
THREE MONTHS ENDED
   
NINE MONTHS ENDED
 
   
SEPTEMBER 30,
   
SEPTEMBER 30,
 
   
2008
   
2007
   
2008
   
2007
 
Sales, net
  $ 7,181     $ 7,097     $ 21,185     $ 21,426  
                                 
Cost of goods sold
    3,244       3,124       9,578       9,511  
                                 
Gross profit
    3,937       3,973       11,608       11,915  
                                 
Operating expense
                               
                                 
Selling, general and administrative
    897       1,165       3,147       3,494  
Research & development
    100       88       282       293  
                                 
Total
    997       1,253       3,429       3,787  
                                 
Operating income
    2,940       2,720       8,178       8,128  
                                 
Other income (expense)
    (213 )     365       179       979  
                                 
Income before provision for income taxes
    2,727       3,085       8,357       9,107  
                                 
Provision for income taxes
    908       1,064       2,729       3,157  
                                 
Net income
  $ 1,820     $ 2,021     $ 5,628     $ 5,950  
                                 
                                 
Earnings per common share (basic)
  $ 0.47     $ 0.52     $ 1.45     $ 1.51  
                                 
Earnings per common share (diluted)
  $ 0.47     $ 0.51     $ 1.44     $ 1.49  
                                 
                                 
                                 
Shares outstanding - basic
    3,864       3,918       3,875       3,931  
                                 
Shares outstanding - diluted
    3,900       3,975       3,915       3,995  
                                 
see notes to consolidated condensed financial statements
                         
 
2

 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
 
CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
FOR THE NINE MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 AND SEPTEMBER 30, 2007
 
(in thousands - unaudited)
 
   
SEPTEMBER 30,
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
           
Net income
  $ 5,628     $ 5,950  
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net
               
  cash provided by operating activities:
               
Depreciation and amortization
    447       443  
(Gain) loss on investments
    29       (780 )
Provision for (recovery of) losses on accounts receivable
    (43 )     (1 )
Deferred income taxes
    (165 )     -  
(Gain) loss on disposale of assets
    0       -  
Stock-based compensation expense
    97       70  
  Changes in operating assets and liabilities:
               
Accounts receivable - trade
    147       (341 )
Accrued interest and other receivables
    86       147  
Inventories
    (429 )     (342 )
Prepaid expenses and other current assets
    9       (29 )
Accounts payable
    151       (4 )
Accrued expenses
    (35 )     204  
Total adjustments
    292       (634 )
Net cash provided by operating activities
    5,920       5,316  
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
               
Capital expenditures for:
               
Property and equipment
    (189 )     (214 )
Intangible assets
    (6 )     (30 )
Purchases of investments
    (2,250 )     (1,500 )
Proceeds from the sale of investments
    1,908       1,570  
Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities
    (536 )     (174 )
                 
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
               
Proceeds from issuance of common stock - options
    224       151  
Common stock purchased and retired
    (1,908 )     (1,570 )
Tax benefit attributable to exercise of stock options
    51       46  
Repayments of note payable
    (1,502 )     (687 )
Payment of dividends
    (2,625 )     (2,562 )
Net cash used in financing activities
    (5,760 )     (4,622 )
                 
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
    9       (28 )
                 
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) IN CASH
    (367 )     492  
                 
CASH AT BEGINNING OF PERIOD
    1,251       610  
                 
CASH AT END OF PERIOD
  $ 883     $ 1,102  
                 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
         
Cash paid during the period for income taxes
  $ 2,525     $ 2,827  
Cash paid during the period for interest
    167       203  
                 
see notes to consolidated condensed financial statements
               
 
3


UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(unaudited)

(1)    The unaudited financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the instructions to form 10-Q and do not include all of the information and note disclosures required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.  These statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and notes included in the Utah Medical Products, Inc. ("UTMD" or "the Company") annual report on form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007.  In the opinion of management, the accompanying financial statements include all adjustments (consisting only of normal recurring adjustments) necessary to summarize fairly the Company's financial position and results of operations.  Dollar amounts are in thousands except per-share amounts, and where noted.

(2)    Inventories at September 30, 2008 and December 31, 2007 consisted of the following:

   
September 30,
   
December 31,
 
   
2008
   
2007
 
Finished goods
  $ 1,085     $ 1,245  
Work-in-process
    909       694  
Raw materials
    1,621       1,214  
Total
  $ 3,615     $ 3,153  

 
(3)    The Company adopted the provisions of FIN 48 on January 1, 2007.  UTMD did not make any adjustment to opening retained earnings as a result of the implementation.  The Company recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense.  The Company recognizes any applicable penalties in its income tax provision.  During the three and nine month periods ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company did not recognize any interest or penalties related to income taxes.  UTMD did not have any accrual for the payment of interest and penalties at September 30, 2008 or December 31, 2007.

(4)    Stock-Based Compensation.  At September 30, 2008 the Company had stock-based employee compensation plans, which authorized the grant of stock options to eligible employees and directors.  Effective January 1, 2006, the Company adopted Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (SFAS) 123R, Share-Based Payment, using the modified prospective method.  This statement requires the Company to recognize compensation cost based on the grant date fair value of options granted to employees and directors.  In the quarters ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company recognized $33 and $25, respectively, in compensation cost related to adoption of the statement.   In the nine months ended September 30, 2008 and 2007, the Company recognized $97 and $70, respectively, in compensation cost related to adoption of the statement.

(5)    Comprehensive Income.  Comprehensive income for the third quarter (3Q) and first nine months (9M) of 2008 was $1,935 and $5,531, net of taxes, respectively.  The components used to calculate comprehensive income were foreign currency translation adjustments of ($185) and ($139) in 3Q and 9M 2008, respectively, and unrealized holding gains of $300 and $42 in 3Q and 9M 2008, respectively.

(6)    Warranty Reserve.   The Company accrues provisions for estimated costs that may be incurred for product warranties.  The amount of the provision is adjusted, as required, to reflect historical experience.  The following table summarizes changes to UTMD’s warranty reserve during 3Q 2008:

Beginning Balance, July 1, 2008
  $ 80  
Changes in Warranty Reserve during 3Q 2008:
       
Aggregate reductions for warranty repairs
    -  
Aggregate changes for warranties issued during reporting period
    -  
Aggregate changes in reserve related to preexisting warranties
    (80 )
Ending Balance, September 30, 2008
  $ 0  


 
4

 

 
(7)    Investments.  As of September 30, 2008, the Company’s investments were held in Fidelity Cash Reserves (FDRXX), Citigroup common stock (C) and Washington Mutual common stock (WM).  As noted in MD&A, UTMD wrote off the WM investment following WM’s liquidity failure.  Changes in the unrealized holding gain/loss on investment securities available-for-sale and reported as a separate component of accumulated other comprehensive income are as follows:

      3Q 2008       3Q 2007  
Balance, beginning of period
  $ (415 )   $ -  
Realized loss from securities included in beginning balance
    266       -  
Gross unrealized holding gains (losses), in equity securities
    56       -  
Deferred income taxes on unrealized holding loss
    (21 )     -  
Balance, end of period
  $ (114 )   $ -  

(8)    Fair Value Measurements.  In September 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards (“SFAS”) No. 157 “Fair Value Measurements.”   This statement defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in generally accepted accounting principles and expands disclosures about fair value measurements.  SFAS 157 is effective for fiscal years beginning after November 15, 2007, and interim periods within those fiscal years.  UTMD adopted the requirements of SFAS 157 on January 1, 2008.

 
The following table provides financial assets carried at fair value measured as of September 30, 2008:
 
         
Fair Value Measurements Using
 
Description
 
Total Fair Value at 9/30/2008
   
Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets
(Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant
Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3 )
 
 
Available-for-sale securities
  $ 21,512     $ 21,512     $ 0     $ 0  

 
 (9)   Forward-Looking Information.   This report may contain certain forward-looking statements and information relating to the Company that are based on the beliefs of management as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, management.  When used in this document, the words “anticipate,” “believe,” “should,”  “project,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend” and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company or its management, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.  Such statements reflect the current view of the Company respecting future events and are subject to certain risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, including the risks and uncertainties noted throughout this document.  Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially, there may be other factors that cause the forward statement not to come true as anticipated, believed, projected, expected, or intended.  Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may differ materially from those described herein as anticipated, believed, projected, estimated, expected, or intended.  Financial estimates are subject to change and are not intended to be relied upon as predictions of future operating results, and the Company assumes no obligation to update or disclose revisions to those estimates.
 
General risk factors that may impact the Company’s revenues include the general economic conditions affecting, among other things, the financial solvency of customers and their ability to continue to afford purchasing medical devices, market acceptance of competitive products; administrative practices of group purchasing organizations; obsolescence caused by new technologies; the possible introduction by competitors of new products that claim to have many of the advantages of UTMD’s products at lower prices; the timing and market acceptance of UTMD’s own new product introductions; changes in clinical practices; UTMD’s ability to efficiently and responsively manufacture its products; including the possible effects of lack of performance of suppliers; opportunities in gaining access to important global distribution channels; budgetary constraints; the timing of regulatory approvals for newly introduced products; regulatory intervention in current operations; government intervention in the economy and third party reimbursement of health care costs of patients.

 
5

 

Negative factors that may adversely impact future performance include managed care reforms or hospital group buying agreements that may limit physicians’ ability to choose certain products or procedures, new products introduced by other companies that displace UTMD’s products, new product regulatory approval delays, changes in the Company’s relationships with distribution partners, and loss of key personnel.
 
The length of time and number of administrative steps required in adopting new products for use in hospitals has grown substantially in recent years.  As a potential negative factor to future performance, as UTMD introduces new products it believes are safer and more effective, it may find itself excluded from certain customers because of the existence of long term supply agreements for preexisting products.  UTMD may also be unable to establish viable relationships with other medical device companies that do have access to users but lack an interest in the Company’s approach or present unreasonable burdens.
 
Risk factors, in addition to the risks outlined in the previous paragraphs and elsewhere in this report that may impact the Company’s assets and liabilities, as well as cash flows, include: risks inherent to companies manufacturing products used in healthcare, including claims resulting from the improper use of devices and other product liability claims; defense of the Company’s intellectual property or claims of patent infringement by others; productive use of assets in generating revenues; management of working capital, including inventory levels required to meet delivery commitments at a minimum cost; and timely collection of accounts receivable.
 
Additional risk factors that may affect non-operating income include: the continuing viability of the Company’s technology license agreements; actual cash and investment balances; performance of investments; prevailing interest rates, asset dispositions; and acquisition activities that may or may not require external funding.
 

 
6

 

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

General
 
UTMD manufactures and markets a well-established range of primarily single-use specialty medical devices.  The Company’s Form 10-K Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2007 provides a detailed description of products, technologies, markets, regulatory issues, business initiatives, resources and business risks, among other details, and should be read in conjunction with this report.  Because of the relatively short span of time, results for any given three month period in comparison with a previous three month period may not be indicative of comparative results for the year as a whole.  Dollar amounts in the report are in thousands, except per-share amounts or where otherwise noted.
 
Given the recent crisis in credit markets, the dramatic change in the value of the EURO vis-à-vis the U.S. Dollar and the apparent serious concern regarding a significant recession that may affect the order patterns of customers, UTMD is not able to provide a projection for the remainder of 2008 in this report.

Analysis of Results of Operations
 
a) 
Overview
 
In third quarter (3Q) 2008, UTMD’s consolidated global sales were 1% higher than in 3Q 2007, and represented the highest sales for a calendar quarter to date in 2008.  3Q 2008 earnings per share (EPS) were $.467 compared to $.508 EPS in 3Q 2007.  UTMD achieved the following profitability measures for 3Q 2008 and 3Q 2007:
 
3Q 08
3Q 07
Gross Profit Margin:
54.8%
56.0%
Operating Profit Margin:
40.9%
38.3%
Net Income Margin:
25.3%
28.5%

The most significant difference in performance comparing 3Q 2008 with 3Q 2007 was due to a change in non-operating income. In 3Q 2008, UTMD recorded non-operating expense of $213, compared to non-operating income of $365 in 3Q 2007.  The $578 difference was due to realizing a net capital loss of $428 on investments and lower interest rates on cash balances.  As an offset to the capital loss, UTMD reduced the management bonus reserve for 2008 by $250, representing an estimate of the CEO’s annual bonus. The income statement effect reduced G&A expenses as part of operating expenses, thus increasing operating income by $250.  From an income tax perspective, the capital loss will be offset by capital gains achieved in the prior three years.
 
The following table compares certain 3Q 2008 and 3Q 2007 income statement categories according to GAAP, with adjusted 3Q 2008 income statement categories omitting the 3Q 2008 net capital loss and the 3Q 2008 management bonus adjustment:
Income Statement Categories
 
3Q 2008
As Reported per GAAP
   
3Q 2008
 without Net Capital Loss on Investments and Management Bonus Reserve Adjustment
   
3Q 2007
As Reported per GAAP
 
Gross Profit
  $ 3,937     $ 3,937     $ 3,973  
      G&A Expense
    (439 )     (689 )     (620 )
Operating Income
    2,940       2,690       2,720  
Non-Operating Income/ (Expense)
    (213 )     215       365  
Income before Tax
    2,727       2,905       3,085  
Net Income
    1,820       1,931       2,021  
Earnings per Share
  $ .467     $ .495     $ .508  
 
In management’s opinion, the unfavorable net capital loss on investments and the favorable accrued bonus expense adjustment have an impact on the 3Q 2008 income statement that does not allow a meaningful comparison with 3Q 2007, or what is likely to occur in the future.
 
For the first nine months (9M) of 2008, UTMD’s total sales were down 1% compared to 9M 2007. 9M 2008 EPS were $1.438 compared to $1.489 EPS in 9M 2007.  UTMD achieved the following profitability as a ratio of sales in 9M 2008 and 9M 2007:
 
 
9M 08
9M 07
Gross Profit Margin:
54.8%
55.6%
Operating Profit Margin:
38.6%
37.9%
Net Income Margin:
26.6%
27.8%
 

 
7

 

b) 
Revenues
 
The Company recognizes revenue at the time of shipment as title generally passes to the customer at that time.  Revenue recognized by UTMD is based upon documented arrangements and fixed contracts in which the selling price is fixed prior to completion of an order.  Revenue from product and service sales is generally recognized at the time the product is shipped or service completed and invoiced, and collectibility is reasonably assured.  There are circumstances under which revenue may be recognized when product is not shipped, which meet the criteria of SAB 104:  the Company provides engineering services, for example, design and production of manufacturing tooling that may be used in subsequent UTMD manufacturing of custom components for other companies.  This revenue is recognized when UTMD’s service has been completed according to a fixed contractual agreement.
 
Total sales were 1% higher in 3Q 2008 compared to 3Q 2007.  International sales were 3% higher while domestic sales were less than 1% higher.  Domestic sales were comprised of domestic OEM sales (sales of components to other companies for use in their products) up 24% and domestic direct sales (sales of finished devices to users or distributors) down 1%.  Domestic OEM sales and international sales have an uneven quarter-to-quarter sales pattern because customers tend to purchase several months’ supply of products at a time to minimize costs.
 
Domestic direct sales excluding obstetrics products were up 8% in 3Q 2008 from 3Q 2007.  Domestic obstetrics product sales, which products are sold to L&D units of hospitals, were down 14% as a result of loss of market share due to significant price reductions offered by competitors in 2008 and the continued trend of administrative arrangements limiting physician choice of devices used in L&D. UTMD’s objective is to replace sales lost due to increased competition by continued development of unique products that provide significant improvements in patient safety and effectiveness of care.
 
Total 9M 2008 sales were 1% lower than in 9M 2007.  9M 2008 international sales increased 4% while domestic sales decreased 3%.  International sales were 32% of total sales in 9M 2008 compared to 30% in 9M 2007.  9M 2008 trade shipments from UTMD’s Ireland facility were down 6% in US Dollar terms and 17% in EURO terms compared to 9M 2007, as UTMD shifted some of its international work to lower cost centers in the U.S.
 
The following table provides the actual sales dollar amounts by general product category for total sales and the subset of international sales:

Global revenues by product category:
      3Q 2008       3Q 2007       9M 2008       9M 2007  
Obstetrics
  $ 1,771     $ 2,157     $ 5,393     $ 6,460  
Gynecology/ Electrosurgery/ Urology
    1,573       1,540       4,730       4,665  
Neonatal
    1,942       1,761       5,457       5,253  
Blood Pressure Monitoring and Accessories*
    1,895       1,639       5,605       5,048  
Total:
  $ 7,181     $ 7,097     $ 21,185     $ 21,426  
*includes molded components sold to OEM customers.

International revenues by product category:
      3Q 2008       3Q 2007       9M 2008       9M 2007  
Obstetrics
  $ 116     $ 237     $ 403     $ 703  
Gynecology/ Electrosurgery/ Urology
    524       538       1,693       1,541  
Neonatal
    211       162       625       487  
Blood Pressure Monitoring and Accessories*
    1,320       1,172       3,965       3,693  
Total:
  $ 2,171     $ 2,109     $ 6,686     $ 6,423  
*includes molded components sold to OEM customers.

c) 
Gross Profit
 
UTMD’s average gross profit margin (GPM), gross profits as a percentage of sales, was 54.8% in both 3Q and 9M 2008, compared to 56.0% and 55.6% in 3Q and 9M 2007, respectively.  The lower GPM in 2008 has been due to higher direct materials, transportation and labor costs in addition to a mix shift in distribution channels. The substantially higher cost of crude oil impacts costs of raw materials for plastic devices, as well as substantially higher freight costs.

 
8

 

OEM sales are sales of UTMD components and subassemblies that are marketed by other companies as part of their product offerings.  UTMD utilizes OEM sales as a means to help optimize utilization of its capabilities established to satisfy its direct sales business.  As a general rule, prices for OEM sales expressed as a multiple of direct variable manufacturing expenses are lower than for direct sales because, in the OEM and international channels, UTMD’s business partners incur significant expenses of sales and marketing.  Because of UTMD’s small size and period-to-period fluctuations in OEM business, fixed manufacturing overhead expenses cannot be meaningfully allocated between direct and OEM sales. Therefore, UTMD does not report GPM by sales channels.

d) 
Operating Profit
 
Operating Profit, or income from operations, is the profit remaining after subtracting operating expenses from gross profits.  Operating expenses include sales and marketing (S&M), research and development (R&D) and general and administrative (G&A) expenses.  Operating expenses in 3Q 2008 were $257 lower than in 3Q 2007, and $358 lower in 9M 2008 than in 9M 2007.  The lower operating expenses were a result of a $250 reduction in the management bonus accrual and proportionately lower sales expenses when selling through international distributors.
 
Because UTMD sells internationally through third party distributors, its S&M expenses are predominantly for U.S. business activity where it sells directly to clinical users.  S&M expenses in 3Q 2008 were $88 lower than in 3Q 2007, and $206 lower in 9M 2008 than in 9M 2007.
 
R&D expenses in 3Q 2008 were $12 higher than in 3Q 2007, and $11 lower in 9M 2008 than in 9M 2007.  For the full year of 2008, UTMD expects that R&D expenses will be about the same as in 2007.
 
G&A expenses in 3Q 2008 were $181 lower than in 3Q 2007, and $141 lower in 9M 2008 than in 9M 2007.  The 3Q 2008 G&A expense decrease was primarily due to a $250 reduction in the management bonus accrual as an offset for the non-operating loss (from the capital loss) of UTMD’s investment in Washington Mutual common stock.  The most significant G&A expense categories which were higher in 3Q 2008 compared to 3Q 2007 were legal and accounting, up $37 due in part to expenses for filing the SEC Form S-3 “shelf” registration, and salaries and benefits up $19 including a higher stock option compensation expense than in the prior year.  Option compensation expense included in G&A expenses in 3Q 2008 was $33 compared to $25 in 3Q 2007, and $97 in 9M 2008 compared to $70 in 9M 2007.
 
     UTMD’s operating profit margin in 3Q 2008 was 40.9% compared to 38.3% of sales in 3Q 2007, and 38.6% in 9M 2008 compared to 37.9% of sales in 9M 2007.
 
The division of operating expenses by major subcategory are provided below:
      3Q 2008       3Q 2007       9M 2008       9M 2007  
S&M Expense
  $ 457     $ 545     $ 1,365     $ 1,571  
R&D Expense
    100       88       282       293  
G&A Expense
    439       620       1,782       1,923  
Total Operating Expenses:
  $ 996     $ 1,253     $ 3,429     $ 3,787  

e) 
Non-operating income (expense)
 
Non-operating income (expense) includes royalties from licensing UTMD’s technology, rent from leasing underutilized property to others, income earned from investing the Company’s excess cash and gains or losses from the sale of assets, offset by non-operating expenses which include interest on the Ireland bank loan and bank service fees.   Non-operating expense in 3Q 2008 was $(213) compared to income of $365 in 3Q 2007, and income of $179 in 9M 2008 compared to income of $979 in 9M 2007.  As described above, the expense in 3Q 2008 resulted from a net realized capital loss on investments of $428 due to a write-off of UTMD’s investment in Washington Mutual (WM) common stock. partially offset by gains from sales of Spartan S/T Treas Bd Fid Advantage Class (FSBAX), compared to a capital gain of $19 in 3Q 2007.
 
UTMD received interest and dividends of $154 from investing its cash balances in 3Q 2008, compared to interest and dividends of $258 in 3Q 2007, and $419 in 9M 2008 compared to $777 in 9M 2007. The lower interest income was due to lower interest rates in 2008 than in 2007. Royalty income, $112 in 3Q and $337 in 9M, was the same in both years.  The royalty which generated the income in both years concludes at the end of 2008.  Rental income was $5 in 3Q 2008 and $61 in 9M 2008, compared to $56 in 3Q 2007 and $87 in 9M 2007.  The drop in rental income was due to weakening demand for UTMD Ireland’s excess warehouse space due to slowing economic activity in 3Q 2008.
 
In 3Q and 9M 2008, UTMD had interest expenses of $41 and $168, respectively, compared to $68 and $203 in 3Q and 9M 2007.  The interest expense resulted from UTMD’s Ireland subsidiary borrowing 4,500 EURO (€ - in thousands) in December 2005 to allow the U.S. repatriation of profits generated by UTMD’s Ireland operations from 1996 through 2005.  The loan must be repaid by the Ireland subsidiary.  The loan balance as of September 30, 2008 is €1,800 EURO (in thousands), so 60% of the loan has been repaid to date by UTMD Ireland in 2.75 years.  UTMD has no other bank loans.

 
9

 
 
 f) 
Earnings Before Income Taxes
 
Earnings before income taxes (EBT) in 3Q 2008 were $2,727 compared to $3,085 in 3Q 2007.  EBT in 9M 2008 were $8,357 compared to $9,107 in 9M 2007.  EBT margins (EBT divided by sales) were 38.0% and 39.5% in 3Q and 9M 2008, respectively, compared to 43.5% and 42.5% in 3Q and 9M 2007, respectively.

g) 
Net Income and Earnings per Share
 
UTMD’s net income was $1,820 in 3Q 2008 compared to $2,021 in 3Q 2007, and $5,628 in 9M 2008 compared to $5,950 in 9M 2007.  Net profit margins (NPM), which are net income (after tax) expressed as a percentage of sales, were 25.3% in 3Q 2008 compared to 28.5% in 3Q 2007, and 26.6% in 9M 2008 compared to 27.8% in 9M 2007.  The income tax provision rates in 3Q and 9M 2008 were 33.3% and 32.7% of EBT, respectively, compared to 34.5% and 34.7% in 3Q and 9M 2007.  The lower tax provision rate resulted primarily from refunds on amended 2004-2006 income tax returns in Ireland.
 
UTMD’s net income divided by weighted average outstanding shares for the applicable reporting period, diluted for unexercised employee and director options, provides earnings per share (EPS) as follows:
 
      3Q 2008       3Q 2007       9M 2008       9M 2007  
Earnings Per Share (EPS)
  $ .467     $ .508     $ 1.438     $ 1.489  
Shares (000), Diluted
    3,900       3,975       3,915       3,995  
 
The Company repurchased 20,200 and 66,800 of its shares in the open market in 3Q 2008 and in 9M 2008 respectively.   Exercises of employee options added 6,100 and 20,200 shares in 3Q and 9M 2008 (net of 1,800 shares swapped in 9M by individuals in payment of the exercise price of the options) respectively.  Options outstanding at September 30, 2008 were 210,400 shares at an average exercise price of $23.10 per share.
 
Increases and decreases in UTMD’s stock price impact EPS as a result of the dilution calculation for unexercised options with exercise prices below the average stock market value during each period.  The dilution calculation added 36,100 and 39,200 shares to actual weighted average shares outstanding in 3Q and 9M 2008 respectively, compared to 57,300 and 63,800 in 3Q and 9M 2007.  The decrease in dilution is due to a lower average market price of UTMD shares in addition to fewer unexercised options outstanding.  Actual outstanding common shares as of the end of 3Q 2008 were 3,856,900 compared to 3,915,900 at the end of 3Q 2007.

h) 
Return on Equity
 
Return on equity (ROE) is the portion of net income retained by UTMD (after payment of dividends) to internally finance its growth, divided by the average accumulated shareholder equity for the applicable time period.  Annualized ROE (after payment of dividends) for 9M 2008 was 10% compared to 12% for 9M 2007.  The lower ROE in 9M 2008 was due to 5% lower net profits, 2% higher dividends and 6% higher average equity to date in 2008.  Share repurchases have a beneficial impact on ROE as long as the Company sustains net profit performance, because shareholder equity is reduced by the cost of the shares repurchased.  Payment of dividends reduces ROE because net income is reduced by the dividends paid to shareholders.  ROE before payment of dividends was 19% in 9M 2008 compared to 22% in 9M 2007.

Liquidity and Capital Resources
 
   i) 
Cash flows
 
Net cash provided by operating activities, including adjustments for depreciation and other non-cash operating expenses along with changes in working capital totaled $5,920 in 9M 2008 compared to $5,316 in 9M 2007.  A $809 smaller gain on investments and a $488 smaller increase in accounts receivable were the most significant differences in the two periods.
 
The Company’s use of cash for investing activities was primarily as a result of purchases of short-term investments, in an effort to maximize returns on excess cash balances while maintaining safety and liquidity.  Capital expenditures for property and equipment were $189 in 9M 2008 compared to $214 in 9M 2007.  This investment in new property and equipment was required to keep facilities, equipment and tooling in good working condition.

 
10

 

In 9M 2008, UTMD received $224 and issued 18,400 shares of stock upon the exercise of employee stock options.  Option exercises in 9M 2008 were at an average price of $13.78 per share.  Employees exercised a total of 20,200 option shares in 9M 2008, with 1,800 shares immediately being retired as a result of the individuals trading the shares in payment of the exercise price of the options.  For comparison, the Company received $151 from issuing 23,000 shares of stock on the exercise of employee stock options in 9M 2007, net of 6,400 shares retired upon employees trading those shares in payment of the stock option exercise price.  The Company repurchased 66,800 shares of its stock in the open market at a cost of $1,908 during 9M 2008, an average cost of $28.58 per share including commissions and fees.  For comparison, UTMD repurchased 50,700 shares of stock in the open market at a cost of $1,570 during 9M 2007.
 
UTMD Ltd. (Ireland subsidiary) made payments of $1,502 on its note payable during 9M 2008.  In 9M 2007, UTMD made loan repayments of $687.  UTMD paid $2,625 in cash dividends in 9M 2008 compared to $2,562 in 9M 2007, a 2% increase in cash dividends paid, although shares in 9M 2008 which received the dividends were about 1% fewer than in 9M 2007.
 
Management believes that future income from operations and effective management of working capital will provide the liquidity needed to finance internal growth plans.  Planned capital expenditures during the remainder of 2008 are expected to be less than $200 to keep facilities, equipment and tooling in good working order.  In addition, UTMD may use cash in 2008 for selective infusions of technological, marketing or product manufacturing rights to broaden the Company's product offerings; for continued share repurchases when the price of the stock is undervalued; and if available for a reasonable price, acquisitions that may strategically fit UTMD’s business and are accretive to performance.

   j) 
Assets and Liabilities
 
September 30, 2008 total assets were about the same as at December 31, 2007.  The most significant changes included a $462 increase in inventories, a $328 decrease in US Dollar-denominated net property and equipment, and a $211 decrease in accounts receivable.  Inventories increased as a result of bulk purchases of raw materials to offset incrementally rising direct materials costs.  Since the end of 2007, cash and investment balances have increased slightly despite paying out $2,625 in cash dividends to shareholders, repurchasing $1,908 in UTMD shares in the open market, repaying $1,502 on the Ireland loan principle balance, and incurring a $428 net capital loss in 3Q 2008.
 
Working capital was $27,062 at September 30, 2008, $296 higher than at 2007 year-end.  Working capital continues substantially in excess of UTMD’s normal operating needs.  As a result of the working capital changes, UTMD’s current ratio increased to 9.6 on September 30, 2008 from 9.5 at year-end 2007, and 8.4 on September 30, 2007.
 
Net property and equipment decreased $328 in 9M 2008 after additions of $189, offset by depreciation of $409 and a decrease in the dollar-denominated value of Ireland P&E.  Goodwill resulting from prior acquisitions remained the same. Net intangible assets excluding goodwill decreased $32 as a result of amortization of intellectual property of $38 offset by additions of intangibles of $6.  At September 30, 2008, net intangible assets including goodwill were 16% of total assets, the same as at year-end 2007.
 
UTMD’s long term liabilities are comprised of the Ireland note payable ($2,296 on September 30, 2008) and deferred income taxes ($379 on September 30, 2008).  As of December 31, 2007, the respective long term liabilities were $3,689 and $343.  In EURO, the Ireland loan balance (including the short term portion) declined 36% from €2,791 to €1,800 (both in thousands) during 9M 2008.   As of September 30, 2008, UTMD’s total debt ratio (total liabilities/ total assets) decreased to 13% from 16% on December 31, 2007, and 17% on September 30, 2007.
 
UTMD does not have any off-balance sheet arrangements that have or are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on its financial condition, changes in financial condition, revenues or expenses.

  k) 
Management's Outlook.
 
Due to the recent crisis in credit markets, the dramatic change in the value of the EURO vis-à-vis the U.S. Dollar and the apparent serious concern of customers regarding a significant recession that may affect their order patterns for UTMD’s devices, management is not able to provide a projection for the remainder of 2008 in this report.

   l) 
Accounting Policy Changes.
 
UTMD adopted SFAS No. 157 “Fair Value Measurements” on January 1, 2008.  Please see note 8 above.

 
11

 

Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk

UTMD has manufacturing operations, including related assets, in Ireland denominated in the EURO, and sells products under agreements denominated in various Western European currencies.  The EURO and other currencies are subject to exchange rate fluctuations that are beyond the control of UTMD.  The exchange rate was 0.6940 EURO per USD as of September 30, 2008, and 0.7055 EURO per USD as of September 30, 2007.  Only a month later, as of November 1, 2008, the EURO had declined to 0.7875 per USD.  UTMD manages its foreign currency risk without separate hedging transactions by converting currencies to USD as transactions occur.


Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

The company’s management, under the supervision and with the participation of the Chief Executive Officer and the Principal Financial Officer, evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 13a-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) as of September 30, 2008. Based on this evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Principal Financial Officer concluded that, as of September 30, 2008, the company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.
 
There were no changes in the company’s internal controls over financial reporting that occurred during the quarter ended September 30, 2008, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the company’s internal controls over financial reporting.
 
In August 2008, UTMD’s board of directors updated the charters of its standing committees, and established a formal Governance and Nominating Committee.  The new Governance and Nominating Committee is constituted by all of the outside directors and the CEO. The charters of the committees are provided on UTMD’s website, www.utahmed.com.
 
 
12

 

PART II - OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1A.       Risk Factors

In addition to the other information set forth in this report, investors should carefully consider the factors discussed in Part I, “Item 1A. Risk Factors” in UTMD’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2007, which could materially affect its business, financial condition or future results.  The risks described in the Annual Report on Form 10-K are not the only risks facing the Company.  Additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to UTMD or currently deemed to be immaterial also may materially adversely affect the Company’s business, financial condition and/or operating results.


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

The following table details purchases by UTMD of its own securities during 3Q 2008.

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES

Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased (1)
   
Average Price Paid per Share
   
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs (1)
 
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares that May be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs (1)
7/01/08 - 7/31/08
    5,049     $ 27.59       5,049    
8/01/08 - 8/31/08
    1,189       27.47       1,189    
9/01/08 - 9/30/08
    13,982       27.66       13,982    
Total
    20,220     $ 27.63       20,220    

(1)    In 3Q 2008 UTMD repurchased the above shares pursuant to a continued open market repurchase program initially announced in August 1992.  Since 1993 through 3Q 2008, the Company has repurchased 6.5 million shares at an average cost of $12.02 per share including broker commissions and fees in open market transactions.  In addition, the Company conducted tender offer transactions in which it purchased an additional 2.8 million shares at an average cost of $9.76 per share including fees and administrative costs.  In total, UTMD has repurchased 9.2 million of its shares at an average price of $11.34 per share since 1993.  To complete the picture relating to current shares outstanding, since 1993 the Company’s employees and directors have exercised and purchased 1.6 million option shares at an average price of $9.02 per share.  All options were awarded at the market value of the stock on the date of the award.

The frequency of UTMD’s open market share repurchases depends on the availability of sellers and the price of the stock.  The board of directors has not established an expiration date or a maximum dollar or share limit for UTMD’s continuing and long term consistent pattern of open market share repurchases.

The purpose of UTMD’s ongoing share repurchases is to maximize the value of the Company for its continuing shareholders, and maximize its return on shareholder equity by employing excess cash generated by effectively managing its business.  UTMD does not intend to repurchase shares that would result in terminating its Nasdaq Global Market listing.
 
13

 
Item 6.  Exhibits

Exhibit #
SEC
Reference #
Title of Document
1
31
Certification of CEO pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
2
31
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) as adopted pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
3
32
Certification of CEO pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
4
32
Certification of Principal Financial Officer pursuant to 18 U.S.C. §1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002


SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchanges Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.


 
UTAH MEDICAL PRODUCTS, INC.
 
REGISTRANT
     
     
Date:      11/7/08    
By:
/s/ Kevin L. Cornwell
   
Kevin L. Cornwell
   
CEO
     
     
Date:      11/7/08    
By:
/s/ Paul O. Richins
   
Paul O. Richins
   
Principal Financial Officer

 
14