10-K 1 hsc-201410kq4.htm 10-K HSC-2014 10K Q4
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
FORM 10-K
ý
ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2014
OR
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
Commission File Number 001-03970
HARSCO CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
Delaware
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
23-1483991
(I.R.S. employer identification number)
350 Poplar Church Road, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania
(Address of principal executive offices)
17011
(Zip Code)
Registrant's telephone number, including area code    717-763-7064
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
Title of each class
 
Name of each exchange on which registered
Common stock, par value $1.25 per share
Preferred stock purchase rights
 
New York Stock Exchange
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:    NONE
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Yes ý   No o
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. Yes o   No ý
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 ý    No o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files). Yes ý    No o
Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant's knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K. o
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer" and "smaller reporting company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
Large accelerated filer ý
 
Accelerated filer o
 
Non-accelerated filer o
 (Do not check if a
smaller reporting company)
 
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 ý
The aggregate market value of the Company's voting stock held by non-affiliates of the Company as of June 30, 2014 was $2,151,796,000.
Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the registrant's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date:
Class
 
Outstanding at January 30, 2015
Common stock, par value $1.25 per share
 
80,082,946
DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE
Selected portions of the 2015 Proxy Statement are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Report.



HARSCO CORPORATION
FORM 10-K
INDEX

 
 
Page
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 



PART I
Item 1.    Business.
(a)
General Development of Business
Harsco Corporation (the "Company") is a diversified, multinational provider of industrial services and engineered products serving global industries that are fundamental to worldwide economic growth and infrastructure development. The Company's operations fall into three reportable segments: Harsco Metals & Minerals, Harsco Industrial and Harsco Rail. The Company has locations in approximately 35 countries, including the United States. The Company was incorporated in 1956.
The Company's operations previously included the Harsco Infrastructure Segment. In November 2013, the Company consummated the previously announced transaction to sell the Company's Harsco Infrastructure Segment into a strategic venture with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice ("CD&R") as part of a transaction that combines the Harsco Infrastructure Segment with Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc., which CD&R simultaneously acquired (the "Infrastructure Transaction"). The Company has contributed substantially all of the Company’s equity interests in, and the net assets of, the Harsco Infrastructure Segment to the strategic venture in exchange for approximately $300 million in cash, subject to working capital and other adjustments, and an approximate 29% equity interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture. The Company’s approximate 29% equity interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture is accounted for under the equity method of accounting as prescribed by U.S. GAAP. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional information on the Infrastructure Transaction.
The Company's executive offices are located at 350 Poplar Church Road, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011 and the Company's main telephone number is (717) 763-7064. The public may read and copy any material the Company files with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") at their Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549. The public may obtain information on the operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330. The Company's Annual Reports on Form 10-K, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K and any amendments to such reports filed with or furnished to the SEC under Sections 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, are available free of charge on the SEC's Internet website at www.sec.gov and on the Company's Internet website at www.harsco.com as soon as reasonably practicable after such reports are electronically filed with the SEC. The information posted on the Company's website is not incorporated into the Company's SEC filings.
The Company's principal lines of business and related principal business drivers are as follows:
Principal Lines of Business
 
Principal Business Drivers
l
Global expertise in providing on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing; as well as value added environmental solutions for industrial co-products
 
l
Global metals production and capacity utilization
 
 
l
Outsourcing of services by metals producers
 
 
l
Demand for high-value specialty steel and ferro alloys
 
 
l
Demand for environmental solutions for metals and minerals waste streams
 
 
 
l
Demand for industrial and infrastructure surface preparation and restoration
 
 
 
l
Demand for residential roofing shingles
l
Air-cooled heat exchangers
 
l
Demand in the natural gas, natural gas processing and petrochemical markets
l
Industrial grating products
 
l
Industrial plant and warehouse construction and expansion
l
 
 
l
Off-shore drilling and new rig construction
l
Heat transfer products
 
l
Demand for commercial and institutional boilers and water heaters
l
Railway track maintenance services and equipment
 
l
Global railway track maintenance-of-way capital spending
 
 
 
l
Outsourcing of track maintenance and new track construction by railroads
The Company reports segment information using the "management approach," based on the way management organizes and reports the segments within the enterprise for making operating decisions and assessing performance. The Company's reportable segments are identified based upon differences in products, services and markets served. These segments and the types of products and services offered are more fully described in section (c) below.


1


In 2014, 2013 and 2012, sales in the United States contributed total revenues of $0.9 billion, $1.0 billion and $1.1 billion, equal to approximately 43%, 35% and 36% of total revenues, respectively. The Company's sales in euro-currency countries contributed total revenues of $0.4 billion, $0.7 billion and $0.8 billion, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, equal to approximately 17%, 25% and 25% of total revenues, respectively. The decrease in revenue from euro-currency countries in 2014 is primarily due to the Infrastructure Transaction. Sales in the United Kingdom contributed total revenues of $0.3 billion, $0.4 billion and $0.3 billion in 2014, 2013 and 2012, equal to approximately 12%, 12% and 11% of total revenues, respectively. There were no significant inter-segment revenues.
(b)
Financial Information about Segments
Financial information concerning segments is included in Note 16, Information by Segment and Geographic Area, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," which information is incorporated herein by reference.
(c)
Narrative Description of Business
(1)   A narrative description of the businesses by reportable segment is as follows:
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment—67% of consolidated revenues for 2014
The Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment is one of the world's largest providers of on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing. There are no significant metals services contracts for which the costs to complete the contract are currently estimated to exceed the revenue to be realized included in the above estimated future revenues. The Metals business's multi-year contracts had estimated future revenues of $4.5 billion at expected production levels at December 31, 2014. This provides the Company with a substantial base of long-term revenues. Approximately 21% of these revenues are expected to be recognized by December 31, 2015; approximately 42% of these revenues are expected to be recognized between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2018; approximately 19% of these revenues are expected to be recognized between January 1, 2019 and December 31, 2021; and the remaining revenues are expected to be recognized thereafter.
The Minerals business extracts high-value metallic content from stainless steel by-products and also specializes in the development of minerals technologies for commercial applications, including agriculture fertilizers. The Minerals business also produces industrial abrasives and roofing granules from power-plant utility coal slag at a number of locations throughout the United States. Harsco Minerals' BLACK BEAUTY® abrasives are used for industrial surface preparation, such as rust removal and cleaning of bridges, ship hulls and various structures. Roofing granules are sold to residential roofing shingle manufacturers, primarily for the replacement roofing market. This business is one of the United States' largest producers of slag abrasives and residential roofing granules.
As part of the Segment's initiatives to develop new products and services, in particular environmental solutions, the Segment is involved with several initiatives and technology alliances focused on developing greater environmental sustainability through the recovery of resources from production by-products and waste streams.
The Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment operates in approximately 35 countries. In 2014 and 2013, this Segment's revenues were generated in the following regions:
 
 
Percentage of Revenues
Region
 
2014
 
2013
Western Europe
 
40
%
 
41
%
North America
 
24
%
 
26
%
Latin America (a)
 
16
%
 
16
%
Asia-Pacific
 
10
%
 
8
%
Middle East and Africa
 
5
%
 
5
%
Eastern Europe
 
5
%
 
4
%
(a)
Including Mexico.
For 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment's percentage of the Company's consolidated revenues were 67%, 47% and 46%, respectively.




2


Harsco Industrial Segment—20% of consolidated revenues for 2014
The Harsco Industrial Segment includes the Harsco Industrial Air-X-Changers, Harsco Industrial IKG and Harsco Industrial Patterson-Kelley businesses. Approximately 93% of this Segment's revenues originate in North America.
Harsco Industrial IKG manufactures a varied line of industrial grating products at several plants in the United States and international plants located in Mexico and China. These products include a full range of metal bar grating configurations, which are used mainly in industrial flooring, as well as safety and security applications in the energy, paper, chemical, refining and processing industries.
Harsco Industrial Air-X-Changers is a leading supplier of custom-designed and manufactured air-cooled heat exchangers for the natural gas, natural gas processing and petrochemical industries from plants in the United States. Harsco Industrial Air-X-Changers' heat exchangers are the primary apparatus used to condition natural gas during recovery, compression and transportation from underground reserves through the major pipeline distribution channels. In January 2014, the Company acquired Hammco Corporation ("Hammco"), a U.S. manufacturer of high specification air-cooled heat exchangers for the natural gas and petrochemical processing markets.
Harsco Industrial Patterson-Kelley is a leading manufacturer of energy-efficient heat transfer products such as boilers and water heaters for commercial and institutional applications.
For 2014, 2013 and 2012, this Segment's percentage of the Company's consolidated revenues were 20%, 13% and 12%, respectively.
Harsco Rail Segment—13% of consolidated revenues for 2014
The Harsco Rail Segment is a global provider of equipment and services for the maintenance, repair and construction of railway track. The Segment's equipment and services support private and government-owned railroads and urban transit systems worldwide.
The Segment's products are produced in three countries and products and services are provided worldwide. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, export product sales from the United States for the Harsco Rail Segment were $104.9 million, $109.3 million and $177.9 million, respectively.
For 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Harsco Rail Segment's percentage of the Company's consolidated revenues were 13%, 10% and 11%, respectively.
(1)(i)  The products and services of the Company are generated through a number of product groups. These product groups are more fully discussed in Note 16, Information by Segment and Geographic Area, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." The product groups that contributed 10% or more as a percentage of consolidated revenues in any of the last three fiscal years are set forth in the following table:
 
 
Percentage of Consolidated Revenues
Product Group
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Outsourced, on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing; as well as value added environmental solutions for industrial co-products
 
67
%
 
47
%
 
46
%
Engineered scaffolding, concrete forming and shoring, and other access-related services, rentals and sales (a)
 
%
 
30
%
 
31
%
Air-cooled heat exchangers, industrial grating products, and heat transfer products
 
20
%
 
13
%
 
12
%
Railway track maintenance services and equipment
 
13
%
 
10
%
 
11
%
(a) The Engineered scaffolding, concrete forming and shoring, and other access-related services, rentals and sales product group is associated with the Harsco Infrastructure Segment which was disposed of as part of the Infrastructure Transaction. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional information on the Infrastructure Transaction.
(1)(ii)  New products and services are added from time to time; however, in 2014, 2013 and 2012 none required the investment of a material amount of the Company's assets.
(1)(iii)  The manufacturing requirements of the Company's operations are such that no unusual sources of supply for raw materials are required. The raw materials used by the Company for its product manufacturing include principally steel and, to a lesser extent, aluminum, which are usually readily available. The profitability of the Company's manufactured products is affected by changing purchase prices of steel and other materials and commodities.
(1)(iv)  While the Company has a number of trademarks, patents and patent applications, it does not consider that any material part of its business is dependent upon them.

3


(1)(v)  The Company furnishes products within the Harsco Industrial Segment that are seasonal in nature. As a result, the Company's revenues and results of operations for the first quarter ending March 31 are normally lower than the second and third quarters. Additionally, the Company has historically generated the majority of cash flows in the second half of the year. This is a result of normally higher income during the latter part of the year. The Company's historical revenue patterns and cash provided by operating activities are as follows:
Historical Pattern of Revenue from Continuing Operations
(In millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
First quarter
 
$
512.7

 
$
715.4

 
$
752.3

 
$
779.1

 
$
742.4

Second quarter
 
534.6

 
759.7

 
770.6

 
875.1

 
786.5

Third quarter
 
526.4

 
740.0

 
756.8

 
855.9

 
752.4

Fourth quarter
 
492.1

 
681.3

 
766.3

 
792.7

 
757.4

Totals
 
$
2,065.7

(a)
$
2,896.5

(a)
$
3,046.0

 
$
3,302.7

(a)
$
3,038.7

(a)
Does not total due to rounding.
Historical Pattern of Cash Provided (Used) by Operations
(In millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
First quarter
 
$
27.5

 
$
3.4

 
$
(1.4
)
 
$
13.1

 
$
30.1

Second quarter
 
46.9

 
53.0

 
37.2

 
53.7

 
95.6

Third quarter
 
110.0

 
107.7

 
75.6

 
123.2

 
110.3

Fourth quarter
 
41.4

 
24.2

 
87.5

 
108.7

 
165.4

Totals
 
$
225.8

 
$
188.3

 
$
198.9

 
$
298.8

(a)
$
401.4

(a)
Does not total due to rounding.
(1)(vi)  The practices of the Company relating to working capital are similar to those of other industrial service providers or manufacturers servicing both domestic and international industrial customers and commercial markets. These practices include the following:
Standard accounts receivable payment terms of 30 to 60 days, with progress or advance payments required for certain long-lead-time or large orders. Payment terms are slightly longer in certain international markets.
Standard accounts payable payment terms of 30 to 90 days.
Inventories are maintained in sufficient quantities to meet forecasted demand. Due to the time required to manufacture certain railway track maintenance equipment to customer specifications, inventory levels of this business tend to increase for an extended period of time during the production phase and decline when the equipment is sold.
(1)(vii)  In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment had two customers that each provided in excess of 10% of this Segment's revenues under multiple long-term contracts at several mill sites. Additionally, consolidation in the global steel industry has increased the Company's exposure to these customers. The loss of any one of the contracts would not have a material adverse effect upon the Company's financial position or cash flows; however, it could have a significant effect on quarterly or annual results of operations. Additionally, these customers have significant accounts receivable balances. Further consolidation in the global steel industry is possible. Should further consolidation occur involving some of the Company's larger steel industry customers, it would result in an increase in concentration of revenues and credit risk for the Company. If a large customer were to experience financial difficulty, or file for bankruptcy protection, it could adversely impact the Company's income, cash flows and asset valuations. As part of its credit risk management practices, the Company closely monitors the credit standing and accounts receivable position of its customer base. As previously disclosed during the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $2.6 million on receivables with a large steel mill customer who filed for protection under the Italian receivership procedures (the "Marzano Law"). During the second quarter of 2014, the customer terminated its contract with the Company under the provisions of the Marzano Law. As a result, during the second quarter of 2014, the Company recorded an additional bad debt reserve of $3.9 million on the remaining pre-receivership receivables with this customer. During the second quarter of 2014, one of the Company’s steel mill customers in Europe missed normal progress payments.  The Company has approximately $8 million of receivables, excluding value added tax, with this customer.  During the second quarter of 2014, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $3.6 million related to this receivable.  The Company believes the remaining amounts are collectible; however, if there is an adverse change in the Company's view on collectability, there could be a charge against income in future periods. Additionally, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $2.6 million during 2014 for one of its Canadian steel mill customers that filed for receivership protection during the course of the year as the Company has previously disclosed.  The amount of the bad debt reserve for this customer represents the full pre-receivership balance.


4


In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Harsco Industrial Segment had one customer that provided in excess of 10% of the Segment's revenues. In 2014 and 2012, the Harsco Rail Segment had one customer and in 2013 two customers that provided in excess of 10% of the Segment's revenues. The loss of any of these customers would not have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial positions or cash flows; however, it could have a material effect on quarterly or annual results of operations.
(1)(viii)  At December 31, 2014, the Company's metals services contracts had estimated future revenues of $4.5 billion at expected production levels, compared with $5.4 billion at December 31, 2013. This decrease is primarily due to exited contracts associated with strategic actions from the Harsco Metals & Minerals Improvement Plan ("Project Orion") related to the focus on underperforming contracts and foreign currency translation. At December 31, 2014, the Harsco Rail Segment had an estimated order backlog of $348.8 million, compared with $229.4 million at December 31, 2013. This increase is primarily due to an additional contract award worth over $100 million through 2017 from the SBB, the federal railway system of Switzerland, partially offset by shipments during 2014. In addition, at December 31, 2014, the Company had an estimated order backlog of $146.9 million in its Harsco Industrial Segment, compared with $83.9 million at December 31, 2013. This increase is primarily due to bookings during the second-half of 2014 in the air-cooled heat exchangers business and the acquisition of Hammco in January 2014.
At December 31, 2014, $190.1 million or 38% of the Company's manufactured products order backlog is not expected to be filled in 2015. The majority of this backlog is expected to be filled in 2016 and the remainder in 2017. This is exclusive of long-term metals industry services contracts, roofing granules and industrial abrasives products, and minerals and metal recovery technologies services.
(1)(ix)  At December 31, 2014, the Company had no material contracts that were subject to renegotiation of profits or termination at the election of the United States Government.
(1)(x)  The Company's competitive environment is complex because of the wide diversity of services and products provided and the global breadth and depth of markets served. No single service provider or manufacturer competes with the Company with respect to all services provided or products manufactured and sold. In general, on a global basis, the Company's segments are among the market leaders in their respective sectors and compete with a range of global, regional and local businesses of varying size and scope.
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment—This Segment provides outsourced on-site services to the global metals industries in approximately 35 countries, with the largest operations focused in the United States, the United Kingdom and Brazil. This Segment is one of the world's largest providers of on-site, outsourced services to the global metals industries. This Segment's key competitive factors are innovative resource recovery solutions, significant industry experience, technology, safety performance, service and value. This Segment competes principally with a number of privately-held businesses for services outsourced by customers. Additionally, due to the nature of this Segment's services, it encounters a certain degree of "competition" from potential new customers' desire to perform similar services themselves instead of using an outsourced solution.
Harsco Industrial Segment—This Segment includes manufacturing businesses located principally in the United States with an increasing focus on international growth. Key competitive factors include quality, value, technology and energy-efficiency. Primary competitors are U.S.-based manufacturers of similar products. In January 2014, the Company acquired Hammco, a provider of process coolers for the natural gas, natural gas processing and petrochemical industries.
Harsco Rail Segment—This Segment manufactures and sells highly-engineered railway track maintenance equipment produced primarily in the United States for customers throughout the world. Additionally, this Segment provides railway track maintenance services principally in the United States and the United Kingdom. This Segment's key competitive factors are quality, technology, customer service and value. Primary competitors for both products and services are privately-held global businesses as well as certain regional competitors.
(1)(xi)  The Company's expense for research and development activities was $6.3 million, $9.6 million and $9.1 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. This excludes technology development and engineering costs classified in cost of services and products sold or selling, general and administrative expense. For additional information regarding research and development activities, see the Research and Development section included under Part II, Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."




5


(1)(xii)  The Company has become subject to, as have others, stringent air and water quality control legislation. In general, the Company has not experienced substantial difficulty complying with these environmental regulations, and does not anticipate making any material capital expenditures for environmental control facilities. While the Company expects that environmental regulations may expand, and that its expenditures for air and water quality control will continue, it cannot predict the effect on its business of such expanded regulations. For additional information regarding environmental matters see Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, to the Consolidated Financial Statements included under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."
(1)(xiii)  At December 31, 2014, the Company had approximately 12,200 employees.
(d)
Financial Information about Geographic Areas
Financial information concerning international and domestic operations is included in Note 16, Information by Segment and Geographic Area, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," which information is incorporated herein by reference. Export sales from the United States totaled $134.0 million, $143.7 million and $214.4 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
(e)
Available Information
Information is provided in Part I, Item 1 (a), "General Development of Business."

Item 1A.    Risk Factors.
Set forth below are risks and uncertainties that could materially and adversely affect the Company's results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows. The risks set forth below are not the only risks the Company faces. The Company's business operations could also be affected by other factors not presently known to the Company or factors that the Company currently does not consider to be material.

The Company is subject to a variety of market risks, economic uncertainties and potential disruptions of its access to credit.
In the normal course of business, the Company is routinely subjected to a variety of market risks. In addition to the risk associated with interest rate and currency movements on outstanding debt and non-U.S. dollar-denominated assets and liabilities, other examples of market risk facing the Company include customer concentration in the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Harsco Rail Segments; the collectability of receivables; the volatility of financial markets and their effect on customer liquidity and defined benefit pension plans; and global economic and political conditions.
From time to time, disruption in the credit markets has severely restricted access to capital for many companies. When credit markets deteriorate, the Company's ability to incur additional indebtedness to fund operations or refinance maturing obligations as they become due may be constrained. This risk could be exacerbated by further deterioration in the Company's credit ratings. The Company is unable to predict any duration or severity of disruptions in the credit and financial markets and adverse global economic conditions. While these conditions have not impaired the Company's ability to access credit markets and finance operations, a deterioration of economic conditions could materially and adversely affect the Company's business and results of operations.
Negative economic conditions may adversely impact demand for the Company's products and services, as well as the ability of the Company's customers to meet their obligations to the Company on a timely basis. Any disputes with customers could also have an adverse impact on the Company's results of operations and cash flows.
Tightening of credit in financial markets may lead businesses to postpone spending, which may impact the Company's customers, causing them to cancel, decrease or delay their existing and future orders with the Company. Declines in economic conditions may further impact the ability of the Company's customers to meet their obligations to the Company on a timely basis and could result in bankruptcy or receivership filings by any of such customers. If customers are unable to meet their obligations on a timely basis, or if the Company is unable to collect amounts due from customers for any reason, it could adversely impact the realizability of receivables, the valuation of inventories and the valuation of long-lived assets across the Company's businesses. Furthermore, some of the Company's significant customers may be subject to acquisitions and/or consolidations that negatively impact their ability to meet their obligations to the Company on a timely basis, or at all. Additionally, the Company may be negatively affected by contractual disputes with customers, which could have an adverse impact on the Company's results of operations and cash flows.



6


If the Company cannot generate future cash flows at a level sufficient to recover the net book value of any of reporting units, the Company may be required to record an impairment charge to earnings.
As a result of the Company's goodwill impairment testing, the Company may be required to record future impairment charges to the extent it cannot generate future cash flows at a level sufficient to recover the net book value of any of the Company's reporting units. For example, as a result of the October 1, 2012 annual goodwill impairment test, the Company recorded a $265.0 million goodwill impairment charge during the fourth quarter of 2012 related to the Harsco Infrastructure Segment. At December 31, 2014, almost all of the Company's goodwill is allocated to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, which is included in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment. The Company's estimates of fair value are based on assumptions about the future operating cash flows and growth rates of each reporting unit and discount rates applied to these cash flows. Based on the uncertainty of future growth rates, restructuring savings and other assumptions used to estimate goodwill recoverability, future reductions in the Company's expected cash flows could cause a material non-cash goodwill impairment charge, which could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and financial condition.

The Company's global presence subjects it to a variety of risks arising from doing business internationally.
The Company operates in approximately 35 countries, including the United States. The Company's global footprint exposes it to a variety of risks that may adversely affect the Company's results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows. These include, but may not be limited to, the following:

periodic economic downturns in the countries in which the Company does business;
imposition of or increases in currency exchange controls and hard currency shortages;
customs matters and changes in trade policy or tariff regulations;
changes in regulatory requirements in the countries in which the Company does business;
changes in tax regulations, higher tax rates in certain jurisdictions and potentially adverse tax consequences including restrictions on repatriating earnings, adverse tax withholding requirements and "double taxation";
longer payment cycles and difficulty in collecting accounts receivable;
complexities in complying with a variety of U.S. and international laws and regulations;
political, economic and social instability, civil and political unrest, terrorist actions and armed hostilities in the regions or countries in which the Company does business;
inflation rates in the countries in which the Company does business;
complying with complex labor laws in foreign jurisdictions;
laws in various international jurisdictions that limit the right and ability of subsidiaries to pay dividends and remit earnings to affiliated companies unless specified conditions are met;
sovereign risk related to international governments that include, but may not be limited to, governments stopping interest payments or repudiating their debt, nationalizing private businesses or altering foreign exchange regulations; and
uncertainties arising from local business practices, cultural considerations and international political and trade tensions.
If the Company is unable to successfully manage the risks associated with its global business, the Company's results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows may be negatively impacted.
The Company has operations in several countries in the Middle East, including Bahrain, Egypt, Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Oman, as well as India and Pakistan, some of which have recently experienced armed hostilities and civil unrest. Additionally, these countries are geographically close to other countries that may have a continued high risk of armed hostilities or civil unrest.
Exchange rate fluctuations may adversely impact the Company's business.
Fluctuations in foreign exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the approximately 25 other currencies in which the Company currently conducts business may adversely impact the Company's results of operations in any given fiscal period. Approximately 17% and 25% of the Company's revenues were derived from operations where the Euro is the functional currency in 2014 and 2013, respectively, and approximately 12% of the Company's revenues were derived from operations in the United Kingdom during both 2014 and 2013. Furthermore, approximately 7% and 5% of the Company's revenues were derived from operations in Brazil for 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company's principal foreign currency exposures are in the European Economic and Monetary Union, the United Kingdom and Brazil. Given the structure of the Company's operations, an increase in the value of the U.S. dollar relative to the foreign currencies in which the Company earns its revenues, generally has a negative impact on the translated amounts of the assets and liabilities, results of operations, and cash flows.


7


The Company's foreign currency exposures increase the risk of volatility in its consolidated financial statements. If currencies in the below regions change materially in relation to the U.S. dollar, the Company's financial position, results of operations, or cash flows may be materially affected.
Compared with the corresponding full-year period in 2013, the average value of major currencies changed as follows in relation to the U.S. Dollar during the full-year 2014, impacting the Company's revenues and income:

British pound sterling strengthened by 5%
euro weakened by 1%
Brazilian real weakened by 7%

Compared with exchange rates at December 31, 2013, the value of major currencies at December 31, 2014 changed as follows:

British pound sterling weakened by 6%
euro weakened by 12%
Brazilian real weakened by 11%
To illustrate the effect of foreign exchange rate changes in certain key markets of the Company, in 2014 revenues would have been approximately 1% or $20.0 million higher and operating income would have been approximately 3% or $2.2 million greater if the average exchange rates for 2013 were utilized. In a similar comparison for 2013, revenues would have been approximately 1% or $21.6 million higher and operating loss would have been approximately 2% or $2.8 million greater if the average exchange rates for 2012 were utilized.
Currency changes also result in assets and liabilities denominated in local currencies being translated into U.S. dollars at different amounts than at the prior period end. Generally, if the U.S. dollar weakens in relation to currencies in countries in which the Company does business, the translated amounts of the related assets and liabilities, and therefore stockholders' equity, would increase. Conversely, if the U.S. dollar strengthens in relation to currencies in countries in which the Company does business, the translated amounts of the related assets, liabilities, and therefore stockholders' equity, would decrease.
Although the Company engages in foreign currency forward exchange contracts and other hedging strategies to mitigate foreign exchange transactional risks, hedging strategies may not be successful or may fail to completely offset these risks.
In addition, competitive conditions in the Company's manufacturing businesses may limit the Company's ability to increase product prices in the face of adverse currency movement. Sales of products manufactured in the United States for the domestic and export markets may be affected by the value of the U.S. dollar relative to other currencies. Any long-term strengthening of the U.S. dollar could depress demand for these products and reduce sales. Conversely, any long-term weakening of the U.S. dollar could improve demand for these products and increase sales.
Cyclical industry and economic conditions may adversely affect the Company's businesses.
The Company's businesses are subject to general economic slowdowns and cyclical conditions in each of the industries served. In particular:

The Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment may be adversely impacted by slowdowns in steel mill production, excess capacity, consolidation, bankruptcy or receivership of steel producers or a reversal or slowing of current outsourcing trends in the steel industry;
The resource recovery technologies business of the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment may be adversely impacted by slowdowns in customer production or a reduction in the selling prices of its materials, which are market-based and vary based upon the current fair value of the components being sold. Therefore, the revenue generated from the sale of such recycled materials varies based upon the fair value of the commodity components being sold;
The industrial abrasives and roofing granules business of the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment may be adversely impacted by reduced home resales or economic conditions that slow the rate of residential roof replacement, or by slowdowns in the industrial and infrastructure refurbishment industries;
The Harsco Rail Segment may be adversely impacted by developments in the railroad industry that lead to lower capital spending or reduced track maintenance spending;
The air-cooled heat exchangers business of the Harsco Industrial Segment is affected by cyclical conditions in the natural gas, natural gas processing and petrochemical industries. Therefore, a slowdown in natural gas and petrochemical drilling or production could adversely affect this business;
Decreasing oil prices may adversely impact purchasing by energy sector customers in the Harsco Industrial Segment;
The industrial grating products business of the Harsco Industrial Segment may be adversely impacted by slowdowns in non-residential construction and industrial production; and

8


Capital constraints and increased borrowing costs may also adversely impact the financial position and operations of the Company's customers across all business segments.

Furthermore, realization of deferred tax assets is ultimately dependent on generating sufficient income in future periods to ensure recovery of those assets. The cyclicality of the Company's end markets and adverse economic conditions may negatively impact the future income levels that are necessary for the utilization of deferred tax assets.

The seasonality of the Company's business may cause its quarterly results to fluctuate.
The Company has historically generated the majority of its cash flows provided by operations in the second half of the year. This is a result of normally higher income during the second half of the year, as the Company's business tends to follow seasonal patterns. If the Company is unable to successfully manage the cash flow and other effects of seasonality on the business, its results of operations may suffer.

The Company may lose customers or be required to reduce prices as a result of competition.
The industries in which the Company operates are highly competitive:

The Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment is sustained mainly through contract renewals and new contract signings. The Company may be unable to renew contracts at historical price levels or to obtain additional contracts at historical rates as a result of competition. If the Company is unable to renew its contracts at the historical rates or renewals are at reduced prices, revenue and results of operations may decline. Additionally, the Company has elected not to renew certain underperforming contracts in an effort to improve overall profitability. This has a negative impact on revenues, but ultimately improves overall operating margins. The Company will continue to evaluate contracts in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, which may adversely affect revenues.
The Harsco Rail and Harsco Industrial Segments compete with companies that manufacture similar products both internationally and domestically. Certain international competitors export their products into the United States and sell them at lower prices due to lower labor costs and government subsidies for exports. Such practices may limit the prices the Company can charge for its products and services. Additionally, unfavorable foreign exchange rates can adversely impact the Company's ability to match the prices charged by international competitors. If the Company is unable to match the prices charged by international competitors, it may lose customers.

Increased customer concentration and related credit and commercial risks may adversely impact the Company's future earnings and cash flows.
The Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and, to a lesser extent, the Harsco Rail Segment have several large customers throughout the world with significant accounts receivable balances. Consolidation in the global steel industry has occurred in recent years and additional consolidation is possible. Should additional transactions occur involving some of the steel or rail industry's larger companies that are customers of the Company, it would result in an increase in concentration of credit risk for the Company. If a large customer were to experience financial difficulty, or file for bankruptcy or receivership protection, or if the Company were unable to collect amounts due from customers that are currently under bankruptcy or receivership protection, it could adversely impact the Company's results of operations, cash flows and asset valuations.

The Company's businesses may be negatively affected by disputes with customers, including its major customers. The Company is currently party to multiple contracts in numerous countries with its largest customer, ArcelorMittal. These contracts cover a variety of services. From time to time, the Company may be negotiating the terms of current and potential future services to be rendered due to the scope and complexity of this relationship. Disagreements between the parties can arise as a result of the scope and nature of the relationship and these ongoing negotiations. The Company cannot predict whether such disputes will arise in the future and whether such conflicts will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

The Company is subject to changes in legislative, regulatory and legal developments involving income taxes.
The Company is subject to U.S. federal, U.S. state and international income, payroll, property, sales and use, value-added, fuel and other types of taxes in numerous jurisdictions. Significant judgment is required in determining the Company's worldwide provisions for income taxes. Changes in tax rates, enactments of new tax laws, revisions of tax regulations, and claims or litigation with taxing authorities could result in substantially higher taxes, and therefore, could have a significant adverse effect on the Company's results of operations, financial condition and liquidity. Currently, a majority of the Company's revenue is generated from customers located outside the United States, and a substantial portion of the Company's assets and employees are located outside the United States. U.S. income tax and international withholding taxes have not been provided on undistributed earnings for certain non-U.S. subsidiaries as such earnings are indefinitely reinvested in the operations of those subsidiaries.

9


Any U.S. tax reform that reduces the Company's ability to defer U.S. taxes on earnings indefinitely reinvested outside of the United States could have a negative impact on the Company's ability to compete in the global marketplace. Recently, the Administration proposed a 14% current tax on all undistributed earnings of foreign subsidiaries of U.S. based companies.  If enacted, this proposal could materially affect the Company’s reported earnings and cash flows and impact the Company’s ability to compete abroad.  The Company will continue to monitor tax legislation to be in a position to fully understand its potential impact on the Company’s operations and to plan accordingly.
The Company's defined benefit net periodic pension cost is directly affected by the equity and bond markets, and a downward trend in those markets could adversely impact the Company's results of operations.
In addition to the economic issues that directly affect the Company's businesses, changes in the performance of equity and bond markets, particularly in the United Kingdom and the United States, impact actuarial assumptions used in determining annual net periodic pension cost, pension liabilities and the valuation of the assets in the Company's defined benefit pension plans. Financial market deterioration would most likely have a negative impact on the Company's net periodic pension cost and the pension assets and liabilities. This could result in a decrease to stockholders' equity and an increase in the Company's statutory funding requirements.
The Company's results of operations may be positively or negatively impacted by the amount of income or expense the Company records for defined benefit pension plans. The Company calculates income or expense for the defined benefit pension plans using actuarial valuations that reflect assumptions relating to financial market and other economic conditions. The most significant assumptions used to estimate defined benefit pension income or expense for the upcoming year are the discount rate, the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets and mortality assumptions. If there are significant changes in key economic indicators, the impact of these assumptions may materially affect the Company's financial position, results of operations and cash flows. These key economic indicators would also likely affect the amount of cash the Company would contribute to the defined benefit pension plans.
The Company's Pension Committee continues to evaluate alternative strategies to further reduce overall net periodic pension cost, including: conversion of certain remaining defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans; the ongoing evaluation of investment fund managers' performance; the balancing of plan assets and liabilities; the risk assessment of multiemployer pension plans; the possible merger of certain plans; the consideration of incremental voluntary cash contributions to certain plans; and other changes that are likely to reduce future net periodic pension cost volatility and minimize risk.
In addition to the Company's defined benefit pension plans, the Company also participates in numerous multiemployer pension plans throughout the world. Within the United States, the Pension Protection Act of 2006 may require additional funding for multiemployer plans that could cause the Company to be subject to higher cash contributions in the future. Additionally, market conditions and the number of participating employers remaining in each plan may affect the funded status of multiemployer plans and consequently any Company withdrawal liability, if applicable. The Company continues to monitor and assess any full and partial withdrawal liability implications associated with these plans.
Further downgrades in the Company's credit ratings could increase the Company's cost of borrowing and could adversely affect the Company's future earnings and ability to access the capital markets.
The Company's cost of borrowing and ability to access capital markets are affected not only by market conditions but also by the short- and long-term debt ratings assigned to the Company's debt by the major credit rating agencies. These ratings are based, in part, on the Company's financial position and liquidity as measured by credit metrics such as interest coverage and leverage ratios.

During 2013, the major credit rating agencies lowered the credit ratings assigned to the Company to non-investment grade; this in turn increased the Company's cost of borrowing under its credit facility. Additional rating downgrades may further increase the Company's cost of borrowing and could adversely affect the Company's ability to access the capital markets and issue additional debt at rates acceptable to the Company. Any increased borrowing costs or an inability to access the capital markets could have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations, financial position, liquidity and cash flows.











10


Restrictions imposed by the Company's outstanding notes and credit facility may limit the Company's ability to obtain additional financing or to pursue business opportunities.
The Company’s 5.75% and 2.7% notes include covenants that require the Company to offer to repurchase the notes at 101% of par in the event of a change of control of the Company or disposition of substantially all of the Company’s assets in combination with a downgrade in the Company’s credit rating to non-investment grade. The Company’s credit facility contains covenants that stipulate a maximum total consolidated debt to consolidated earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") ratio of 3.5 to 1.0, limit the proportion of subsidiary consolidated indebtedness to a maximum of 10% of consolidated tangible assets, and specify a minimum ratio of consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest charges of 3.0 to 1.0.  These covenants limit the amount of debt the Company may incur, which could limit the Company's ability to obtain additional financing or pursue business opportunities. In addition, the Company's ability to comply with these ratios may be affected by events beyond its control. A breach of any of these covenants or the inability to comply with the required financial ratios could result in a default under the credit facility. In the event of any default under the credit facility, the lenders under the facility could elect to declare all borrowings outstanding, together with accrued and unpaid interest and other fees, to be due and payable, which would cause an event of default under the credit facility. This could, in turn, trigger an event of default under the cross-default provisions of the Company's other outstanding indebtedness.

Failure of financial institutions to fulfill their commitments under committed credit facility and derivative financial instruments may adversely affect the Company's future earnings and cash flows.
The Company has a committed revolving credit facility with financial institutions available for its use, for which the Company pays commitment fees. The credit facility is provided by a syndicate of several financial institutions, with each institution agreeing severally (and not jointly) to make revolving credit loans to the Company in accordance with the terms of the related credit agreement. If one or more of the financial institutions providing the committed credit facility were to default on its obligation to fund its commitment, the portion of the committed facility provided by such defaulting financial institution would not be available to the Company.
The Company uses cross currency interest rate swaps in conjunction with certain debt issuances in order to secure either a fixed or floating local currency interest rate. The Company has foreign currency forward exchange contracts outstanding as part of a worldwide program to minimize foreign currency operating income and balance sheet exposure. Foreign currency forward exchange contracts are used to hedge commitments, such as foreign currency debt, firm purchase commitments and foreign currency cash flows for certain export sales transactions. The unsecured contracts for cross currency interest rate swaps and foreign currency forward exchange contracts outstanding at December 31, 2014 mature at various times through 2020 and are with major financial institutions. The Company may also enter into derivative contracts to hedge commodity exposures. The Company may be exposed to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the counterparties to the contracts.
The failure of a counterparty to fulfill its obligation under the committed credit facility or derivative financial instruments may have a material adverse effect on the Company's results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows.
The Company's cash flows and earnings are subject to changes in interest rates.
The Company's total debt at December 31, 2014 was $871.6 million. Of this amount, approximately 17% had variable rates of interest and approximately 83% had fixed rates of interest. The weighted average interest rate of total debt was 4.6%. At current debt levels, a one percentage point increase/decrease in variable interest rates would increase/decrease interest expense by $1.5 million per year. If the Company is unable to successfully manage its exposure to variable interest rates, its results of operations and financial condition may be negatively impacted.

Additionally, whenever the Company refinances fixed rate debt, the new interest rates may negatively impact the Company's results of operations. The interest rates associated with new fixed rate debt are impacted by several factors including, but not limited to, currency, market conditions, term of the borrowings and the financial results of the Company.

A negative outcome on personal injury claims against the Company may adversely impact results of operations and financial condition.
The Company has been named as one of many defendants (approximately 90 or more in most cases) in legal actions alleging personal injury from exposure to airborne asbestos over the past several decades. In their suits, the plaintiffs have named as defendants, among others, many manufacturers, distributors and installers of numerous types of equipment or products that allegedly contained asbestos. The majority of the asbestos complaints pending against the Company have been filed in New York. Almost all of the New York complaints contain a standard claim for damages of $20 million or $25 million against the approximately 90 defendants, regardless of the individual plaintiff's alleged medical condition, and without specifically identifying any Company product as the source of plaintiff's asbestos exposure. If the Company is found to be liable in any of these actions and the liability exceeds the Company's insurance coverage, results of operations, cash flows and financial condition could be adversely affected.


11


Higher than expected claims under insurance policies, under which the Company retains a portion of the risk, could adversely impact results of operations and cash flows.
The Company retains a significant portion of the risk for property, workers' compensation, U.K. employers' liability, automobile and general and product liability losses. Reserves have been recorded that reflect the undiscounted estimated liabilities for ultimate losses, including claims incurred but not reported. Inherent in these estimates are assumptions that are based on the Company's history of claims and losses, a detailed analysis of existing claims with respect to potential value, and current legal and legislative trends. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had recorded liabilities of $47.9 million and $52.4 million, respectively, related to both asserted and unasserted insurance claims. Included in the balance at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $3.8 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of recognized liabilities covered by insurance carriers. If actual claims are higher than those projected by management, an increase to the Company's insurance reserves may be required and would be recorded as a charge to income in the period the need for the change was determined. Conversely, if actual claims are lower than those projected by management, a decrease to the Company's insurance reserves may be required and would be recorded as a reduction to expense in the period the need for the change was determined.

The Company is subject to various environmental laws, and the success of existing or future environmental claims against it could adversely impact the Company's results of operations and cash flows.
The Company's operations are subject to various federal, state, local and international laws, regulations and ordinances relating to the protection of health, safety and the environment, including those governing discharges to air and water, handling and disposal practices for solid and hazardous wastes, the remediation of contaminated sites and the maintenance of a safe workplace. These laws impose penalties, fines and other sanctions for non-compliance and liability for response costs, property damages and personal injury resulting from past and current spills, disposals or other releases of, or exposure to, hazardous materials. The Company could incur substantial costs as a result of non-compliance with or liability for remediation or other costs or damages under these laws. The Company may be subject to more stringent environmental laws in the future, and compliance with more stringent environmental requirements may require the Company to make material expenditures or subject it to liabilities that the Company currently does not anticipate.
The Company is currently involved in a number of environmental remediation investigations and cleanups and, along with other companies, has been identified as a "potentially responsible party" for certain waste disposal sites under the federal "Superfund" law. At several sites, the Company is currently conducting environmental remediation, and it is probable that the Company will agree to make payments toward funding certain other of these remediation activities. It also is possible that some of these matters will be decided unfavorably to the Company and that other sites requiring remediation will be identified. Each of these matters is subject to various uncertainties, and financial exposure is dependent upon such factors as the continuing evolution of environmental laws and regulatory requirements; the availability and application of technology; the allocation of cost among potentially responsible parties; the years of remedial activity required; and the remediation methods selected.
Volatility in energy prices could reduce the Company's profitability.
The Company's Air-cooled heat exchangers business manufactures products that are utilized within the energy supply chain. These products are used to support the infrastructure investments or expansions, as well as maintain current output levels, of the Company's customers. Volatility and changes in energy prices, both for natural gas and oil, affect the financial performance of certain of the Company's customers and may impact the demand for the Company's products.

Increases or decreases in purchase prices (or selling prices) or availability of steel or other materials and commodities may affect the Company's profitability.
The profitability of the Company's manufactured products is affected by changing purchase prices of steel and other materials and commodities. If raw material costs associated with the Company's manufactured products increase and the costs cannot be transferred to the Company's customers, results of operations would be adversely affected. Additionally, decreased availability of steel or other materials could affect the Company's ability to produce manufactured products in a timely manner. If the Company cannot obtain the necessary raw materials for its manufactured products, then revenues, results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.
Certain services performed by the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment result in the recovery, processing and sale of recovered metals and minerals and other high-value metal by-products to its customers. The selling price of the by-products material is market-based and varies based upon the current fair value of its components. Therefore, the revenue amounts generated from the sale of such by-products material vary based upon the fair value of the commodity components being sold.





12


The Company may not be able to manage and integrate acquisitions successfully.
In the past, the Company has acquired businesses and, on an ongoing basis, continues to evaluate strategic acquisition opportunities that have the potential to support and strengthen the Company. For example, in January 2014, the Company acquired Hammco Corporation ("Hammco"), a provider of process coolers for the natural gas and petrochemical processing industries. The Company can give no assurances that any acquisition opportunities will arise in the future or, if they do, that they will be consummated, or that additional financing or capital, if needed, will be available on satisfactory terms.

In addition, acquisitions involve inherent risks that the businesses acquired will not perform in accordance with the Company's expectations. The Company may not be able to achieve the synergies and other benefits that are expected from the integration of acquisitions as successfully or rapidly as projected, if at all. The Company's failure to effectively integrate newly acquired operations, including the operations of Hammco, could prevent the Company from recognizing expected rates of return on an acquired business and could have a material adverse effect on the results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows of the Company.

Due to the international nature of the Company's business, the Company could be adversely affected by violations of certain laws.
The Company's policies mandate compliance with certain U.S. and international laws, such as import/export regulations, the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and similar anti-bribery laws. With regard to the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act and anti-bribery laws, the Company operates in many parts of the world that have experienced governmental corruption to some degree and, in certain circumstances, strict compliance with anti-bribery laws may conflict with local customs and practices. The Company cannot provide assurance that its internal controls and procedures will always prevent reckless or criminal acts by its employees or agents. If the Company is found to be liable for violations of these laws (either due to its own acts, out of inadvertence, or due to the acts or inadvertence of others), the Company could suffer criminal or civil penalties or other sanctions, including limitations on its ability to conduct its business, which could have a material adverse effect on results of operations, financial condition, and cash flows.

The Company may be unable to achieve, or may be delayed in achieving, its cost-cutting initiatives, strategic initiatives, and portfolio optimization initiatives, and this may adversely affect operating results and cash flow.
As part of its continuing efforts to improve operating efficiencies and reduce operating costs, the Company has in the past implemented numerous cost-cutting initiatives, strategic initiatives, and portfolio optimization initiatives, including initiatives implemented in the fourth quarter of 2013 and throughout 2014. The Company anticipates that it will continue to implement additional initiatives in 2015 and beyond when circumstances warrant. If the Company is unable to achieve, or has any unexpected delays in achieving, the anticipated cost savings and benefits associated with these initiatives, its results of operations and cash flow may be adversely affected. Even if the Company meets the goals pursuant to these initiatives, it may not receive the expected financial benefits of these initiatives.

The Company’s ongoing operations are subject to extensive laws, regulations, rules and ordinances relating to safety, health and environmental matters that impose significant costs and liabilities on the Company, and future laws and governmental standards could increase these costs and liabilities. 
The Company is subject to a variety of international, federal, state and local laws and governmental regulations, rules and ordinances regulating the use of certain materials contained in its products and/or used in its manufacturing processes. Many of these laws and governmental standards provide for extensive obligations that require the Company to incur significant compliance costs, and impose substantial monetary fines and/or criminal sanctions for violations. Furthermore, such laws and standards are subject to change and may become more stringent.

In particular, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration is reviewing its worker safety standards related to exposure to beryllium, which is a component of Harsco Minerals’ BLACK BEAUTY® abrasives. Although it is not possible to predict changes in laws or other governmental standards, the development, proposal or adoption of more stringent laws or governmental standards may affect buying decisions by the users of the Company’s products that contain regulated materials or that involve the use of such materials in the manufacturing process. If applicable laws and governmental standards become made more stringent and/or the Company’s customers or other downstream users decide to reduce their use of its products, our results of operations, liquidity and financial condition could be materially adversely affected.








13


The Company maintains a workforce based upon current and anticipated workload. If the Company does not receive future contract awards or if these awards are delayed, significant cost may result.
The Company's estimates of future performance depend on, among other matters, whether and when the Company will receive certain new contract awards, including the extent to which the Company utilizes its workforce. The rate at which the Company utilizes its workforce is impacted by a variety of factors including the ability to manage attrition; to forecast the need for services, which allows it to maintain an appropriately sized workforce; the ability to transition employees from completed projects to new projects or between segments; and the need to devote resources to non-revenue generating activities such as training or business development. While the Company's estimates are based upon its good faith judgment, these estimates can be unreliable and may frequently change based on newly available information. In the case of large-scale domestic and international projects where timing is often uncertain, it is particularly difficult to predict whether and when the Company will receive a contract award. The uncertainty of contact award timing can present difficulties in matching the Company's workforce size with contract needs. If an expected contract award is delayed or not received, the Company could incur cost resulting from reductions in staff or redundancy of facilities or equipment that could have a material adverse effect on results of operations, financial condition, liquidity and cash flows.

The success of the Company's strategic ventures depends on the satisfactory performance by strategic venture partners of their strategic venture obligations.
The Company enters into various strategic ventures as part of its strategic growth initiatives as well as to comply with local laws. Differences in opinions or views between strategic venture partners can result in delayed decision-making or failure to agree on material issues which could adversely affect the business and operations of the venture. From time to time in order to establish or preserve a relationship, or to better ensure venture success, the Company may accept risks or responsibilities for the strategic venture that are not necessarily proportionate with the reward it expects to receive. The success of these and other strategic ventures also depends, in large part, on the satisfactory performance by the Company's strategic venture partners of their strategic venture obligations, including their obligation to commit working capital, equity or credit support as required by the strategic venture and to support their indemnification and other contractual obligations. If the Company's strategic venture partners fail to satisfactorily perform their strategic venture obligations as a result of financial or other difficulties, the strategic venture may be unable to adequately perform or deliver its contracted services. Under these circumstances, the Company may be required to make additional investments and provide additional services to ensure the adequate performance and delivery of the contracted services. These additional obligations could result in reduced profits or, in some cases, increased liabilities or significant losses for the Company with respect to the strategic venture. In addition, although the Company generally performs due diligence with regard to potential strategic partners or ventures, a failure by a strategic venture partner to comply with applicable laws, rules or regulations could negatively impact its business and, in the case of government contracts, could result in fines, penalties, suspension or even debarment. Unexpected strategic venture developments could have a material adverse effect on results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.

The Company may pursue strategic transactions that it believes will maximize equity returns for stockholders but may involve risk.
From time to time, the Company considers strategic transactions that it believes will maximize stockholder's equity returns over the long-term. For example, in 2013, the Company contributed the Harsco Infrastructure division into a strategic venture with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice ("CD&R"). These types of transactions, however, also involve risk, including risk relating to the costs associated with such transactions, the loss of cash flows and market positions of disposed businesses, and the possibility that savings anticipated to result from such transactions may not be realized. There can be no guarantee that these transactions, including the strategic venture with CD&R, will result in cost savings, be accretive to the Company's earnings, improve operating margins and return on capital, or ultimately maximize equity returns for the Company's stockholders.















14


Increased information technology security threats and more sophisticated computer crime pose a risk to the Company's systems, networks, products and services.
The Company relies upon information technology systems and networks in connection with a variety of business activities, some of which are managed by third parties. Additionally, the Company collects and stores data that is of a sensitive nature. The secure operation of these information technology systems and networks, and the processing and maintenance of this data is critical to the Company's business operations and strategy. Information technology security threats - from user error to attacks designed to gain unauthorized access to the Company's systems, networks and data - are increasing in frequency and sophistication. Attacks may range from random attempts to coordinated and targeted attacks, including sophisticated computer crime and advanced persistent threats. These threats pose a risk to the security of the Company's systems and networks and the confidentiality, availability and integrity of the Company's data. Should an attack on the Company's information technology systems and networks succeed it could expose the Company and the Company's employees, customers, dealers and suppliers to misuse of information or systems, the compromising of confidential information, manipulation and destruction of data, production downtimes and operations disruptions. The occurrence of any of these events could adversely affect the Company's reputation, competitive position, business and results of operations. In addition, such breaches in security could result in litigation, regulatory action and potential liability and the costs and operational consequences of implementing further data protection measures.

The Company's intellectual property portfolio may not prevent competitors from independently developing similar or duplicative products and services.
The Company's patents and other intellectual property may not prevent competitors from independently developing or selling similar or duplicative products and services, and there can be no assurance that the resources invested by the Company to protect the Company's intellectual property will be sufficient or that the Company's intellectual property portfolio will adequately deter misappropriation or improper use of the Company's technology. The Company could also face competition in some countries where the Company has not invested in an intellectual property portfolio. The Company may also face attempts to gain unauthorized access to the Company's IT systems or products for the purpose of improperly acquiring trade secrets or confidential business information. The theft or unauthorized use or publication of the Company's trade secrets and other confidential business information as a result of such an incident could adversely affect the Company's competitive position and the value of the Company's investment in research and development. The Company may be unable to secure or retain ownership or rights to use data in certain software analytics or services offerings. In addition, the Company may be the target of aggressive and opportunistic enforcement of patents by third parties, including non-practicing entities. Regardless of the merit of such claims, responding to infringement claims can be expensive and time-consuming. If the Company is found to infringe any third-party rights, the Company could be required to pay substantial damages or could be enjoined from offering some of the Company's products and services. Also, there can be no assurances that the Company will be able to obtain or renew from third parties the licenses needed in the future, and there is no assurance that such licenses can be obtained on reasonable terms.

Union disputes or other labor matters could adversely affect the Company's operations and financial results.
Some of the Company's employees are represented by labor unions in a number of countries under various collective bargaining agreements with varying durations and expiration dates. There can be no assurance that any current or future issues with the Company's employees will be resolved or that the Company will not encounter future strikes, work stoppages or other types of conflicts with labor unions or the Company's employees. The Company may not be able to satisfactorily renegotiate collective bargaining agreements in the United States and other countries when they expire. If the Company fails to renegotiate existing collective bargaining agreements, the Company could encounter strikes or work stoppages or other types of conflicts with labor unions. In addition, existing collective bargaining agreements may not prevent a strike or work stoppage at the Company's facilities in the future. The Company may also be subject to general country strikes or work stoppages unrelated to the Company's business or collective bargaining agreements. A work stoppage or other limitations on production at the Company's facilities for any reason could have an adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, many of the Company's customers and suppliers have unionized work forces. Strikes or work stoppages experienced by the Company's customers or suppliers could have an adverse effect on the Company's business, results of operations and financial condition.


Item 1B.    Unresolved Staff Comments.
None.

15


Item 2.    Properties.
Operations of Harsco Corporation and its subsidiaries are conducted at both owned and leased properties in domestic and international locations. The Company's executive offices are located at 350 Poplar Church Road, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011 and are owned. The following table describes the location and principal use of the Company's more significant properties.
Location
 
Principal Products
 
Interest
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
 
 
 
 
Coronel Fabriciano, Brazil
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Owned
East Chicago, Indiana, United States
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Owned
Mitterdorf, Austria
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Leased
Sarver, Pennsylvania, United States
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Owned
Sorel—Tracy, Canada
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Leased
Taiyuan City, China
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Owned and Leased
Timoteo, Brazil
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Leased
Warren, Ohio, United States
 
Minerals and Resource Recovery Technologies
 
Owned
Drakesboro, Kentucky, United States
 
Roofing Granules/Abrasives
 
Owned
Gary, Indiana, United States
 
Roofing Granules/Abrasives
 
Owned
Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, United States
 
Roofing Granules/Abrasives
 
Owned
     Moundsville, West Virginia, United States
 
Roofing Granules/Abrasives
 
Leased
Harsco Rail Segment
 
 
 
 
Brendale, Australia
 
Rail Maintenance Equipment
 
Owned
Ludington, Michigan, United States
 
Rail Maintenance Equipment
 
Owned
West Columbia, South Carolina, United States
 
Rail Maintenance Equipment
 
Owned
Harsco Industrial Segment
 
 
 
 
Catoosa, Oklahoma, United States
 
Heat Exchangers
 
Owned and Leased
Owasso, Oklahoma, United States
 
Heat Exchangers
 
Leased
Sapulpa, Oklahoma, United States
 
Heat Exchangers
 
Leased
East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, United States
 
Heat Transfer Products
 
Owned
Channelview, Texas, United States
 
Industrial Grating Products
 
Owned
Garrett, Indiana, United States
 
Industrial Grating Products
 
Leased
Leeds, Alabama, United States
 
Industrial Grating Products
 
Owned
Queretaro, Mexico
 
Industrial Grating Products
 
Owned
The Harsco Metals business, which is part of the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, principally operates on customer-owned sites and has administrative offices in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, and Leatherhead, United Kingdom.
The above table includes the principal properties owned or leased by the Company. The Company also operates from a number of other smaller plants, warehouses and offices in addition to the above. The Company considers all of its properties at which operations are currently performed to be in satisfactory condition and suitable for their intended use.


Item 3.    Legal Proceedings.
Information regarding legal proceedings is included in Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

Item 4.    Mine Safety Disclosures.
Not applicable.


16


Supplementary Item.    Executive Officers of the Registrant
Set forth below, at March 2, 2015, are the executive officers of the Company and certain information with respect to each of them. Except as otherwise set forth below, each executive officer was last elected to his or her respective position effective February 20, 2015. All terms expire on April 26, 2016. There are no family relationships among any of the executive officers.
Name
 
Age
 
Position with the Company
Executive Officers:
 
 
 
 
F. Nicholas Grasberger, III
 
51

 
President and Chief Executive Officer
Peter F. Minan
 
53

 
Chief Financial Officer
A. Verona Dorch
 
47

 
Chief Legal Officer, Chief Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary
Richard E. Lundgren, Jr.
 
57

 
Senior Vice President and Group President-Harsco Metals & Minerals
Scott H. Gerson
 
44

 
Vice President and Group President–Harsco Industrial
Scott W. Jacoby
 
48

 
Vice President and Group President–Harsco Rail
Tracey L. McKenzie
 
47

 
Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officers

F. Nicholas Grasberger, III
President and Chief Executive Officer since August 1, 2014, and became a member of the Board of Directors on April 29, 2014. Served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer from April 22, 2013 to November 11, 2014, and President and Chief Operating Officer from April 8, 2014 to August 1, 2014. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Grasberger was Managing Director of Fenner Plc’s Precision Polymer division from March 2011 to April 2013. From April 1, 2009 to November 9, 2009 he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Armstrong Building Products. From January 2005 to March 31, 2009 he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Armstrong World Industries, Inc. Prior to his employment with Armstrong, Mr. Grasberger served as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Kennametal Inc. from 2000 to 2004.

Peter F. Minan
Chief Financial Officer since November 11, 2014. Mr. Minan has an extensive background in global financial management acquired through a nearly 30-year career with KPMG from 1983 to 2012. He became a partner at KPMG in 1993 and served as global lead partner for several multi-national Fortune 500 industrial and consumer audits. His roles included National Managing Partner, U.S. Audit practice, and Partner in Charge, Washington/Baltimore Audit practice. His most recent role was with Computer Sciences Corporation, where he served as Vice President of Enterprise Risk Management and Internal Audit from 2012 to 2013.

A. Verona Dorch
Chief Legal Officer, Chief Compliance Officer and Corporate Secretary since June 5, 2012. Served as Vice President, Deputy General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary from April 26, 2011 to June 4, 2012, as Assistant General Counsel and Assistant Corporate Secretary from January 1, 2008 to April 25, 2011 and as Assistant General Counsel from July 6, 2006 to December 31, 2007. Prior to joining the Company, Ms. Dorch served as a senior associate in the Virginia and San Francisco offices of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP and worked in Tokyo, Japan for 2 1/2 years. Before that, she held senior legal positions with leading law firms in New York and Boston.

Richard E. Lundgren, Jr.
Senior Vice President and Group President–Harsco Metals & Minerals since April 7, 2014. Mr. Lundgren has extensive experience as an operations executive, most recently serving as Chief Executive Officer for Shale-Inland Holdings, a leading distribution company for specialty metal products from 2012 to 2013. Prior to that, he was President of Tyco Thermal Controls, a global operating division of Tyco International, from 2006 to 2012. Mr. Lundgren started his career with Monsanto Company and later served in several senior roles in Huntsman Corporation.

Scott H. Gerson
Vice President and Group President–Harsco Industrial since January 25, 2011. Served as Vice President and Group President– Harsco Industrial and Chief Information Officer from July 6, 2010 to January 24, 2011. Served as Chief Information Officer from April 4, 2005 to July 6, 2010. Prior to joining the Company on April 4, 2005, Mr. Gerson was with Kulicke & Soffa Industries, Inc., where he served as IT director of their worldwide application services. He has also served in IT management capacities with Compaq Computers and TRW Inc.





17



Scott W. Jacoby
Vice President and Group President–Harsco Rail since July 6, 2010. Served as President of Harsco Rail from April 2009 to July 2010. Served as Vice President and General Manager of Harsco Track Technologies from August 2007 to April 2009. Served as Vice President and General Manager of Air- X-Changers from April 2005 to August 2007. Prior to that, Mr. Jacoby held senior management positions in the Harsco Industrial business group. Prior to joining the Company in 1995, Mr. Jacoby began his career with Mack Trucks.

Tracey L. McKenzie
Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer since September 2014. Prior to joining Harsco in September 2014, Ms. McKenzie served as Global HR Vice President for JLG Industries, a leader in the manufacturing sector for advanced aerial lift systems.  Ms. McKenzie previously held executive level HR positions in her native Australia, and worked at Pacific Scientific Aerospace (a division of Danaher).  


18


PART II
Item 5.    Market for Registrant's Common Equity, Related Stockholder Matters and Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities.
Harsco Corporation common stock is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. At December 31, 2014, there were 80,659,850 shares outstanding. In 2014, the Company's common stock traded in a range of $16.48 to $28.19 and closed at $18.89 at year-end. At December 31, 2014, there were approximately 11,700 stockholders. There are no significant limitations on the payment of dividends included in the Company's loan agreements. For additional information regarding Harsco Corporation's common stock market price and dividends declared, see Dividend Action under Part II, Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," and the Common Stock Price and Dividend Information under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." For additional information on the Company's equity compensation plans see Part III, Item 11, "Executive Compensation."
Issuer Purchases of Equity Securities
Period
 
Total
Number of
Shares
Purchased
 
Average
Price Paid
per Share
 
Total Number of
Shares Purchased
as Part of Publicly
Announced Plans
or Programs
 
Maximum Number
of Shares that May
Yet Be Purchased
Under the Plans or
Programs (a)
October 1, 2014-October 31, 2014
 

 
$

 

 
2,000,000

November 1, 2014-November 30, 2014
 

 

 

 
2,000,000

December 1, 2014-December 31, 2014
 
150,000

 
19.09

 

 
1,850,000

Total
 
150,000

 
$
19.09

 

 
 

(a) At December 31, 2014, 1,850,000 shares remained available for repurchase under the Company's share repurchase program. Subsequent to December 31, 2014, the Company repurchased an additional 596,632 shares. The Company's share repurchase program expired on January 31, 2015.

19


Item 6.    Selected Financial Data.
Five-Year Statistical Summary
(In thousands, except per share, employee information and percentages)
 
2014
 
2013 (a)
 
2012
 
2011
 
2010
 
Statement of operations information
 
Revenues from continuing operations
 
$
2,065,738

 
$
2,896,520

 
$
3,046,018

 
$
3,302,740

 
$
3,038,678

 
Amounts attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
Income (loss) from continuing operations
 
$
(24,902
)
 
$
(226,449
)
 
$
(253,693
)
 
$
(9,447
)
 
$
10,885

 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
 
110

 
(1,492
)
 
(919
)
 
(2,063
)
 
(4,131
)
 
Net income (loss)
 
(24,792
)
 
(227,941
)
 
(254,612
)
 
(11,510
)
 
6,754

 
Financial position and cash flow information
 
Working capital
 
$
116,262

 
$
231,986

 
$
428,868

 
$
377,163

 
$
387,082

 
Total assets
 
2,263,801

 
2,441,748

 
2,975,969

 
3,338,877

 
3,469,220

 
Long-term debt
 
829,709

 
783,158

 
957,428

 
853,800

 
849,724

 
Total debt
 
871,645

 
810,904

 
969,266

 
908,772

 
884,932

 
Depreciation and amortization
 
176,326

 
237,041

 
272,117

 
310,441

 
315,239

 
Capital expenditures
 
(207,978
)
 
(246,147
)
 
(265,023
)
 
(313,101
)
 
(192,348
)
 
Cash provided by operating activities
 
225,846

 
188,255

 
198,879

 
298,776

 
401,427

 
Cash provided (used) by investing activities
 
(228,680
)
 
62,685

 
(219,268
)
 
(255,822
)
 
(202,023
)
 
Cash used by financing activities
 
(21,794
)
 
(248,664
)
 
(4,546
)
 
(39,554
)
 
(171,521
)
 
Ratios
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Return on average equity (b)
 
(4.4
)%
 
(29.1
)%
 
(21.7
)%
 
(0.6
)%
 
0.7
%
 
Current ratio (c)
 
1.2
:1
 
1.4
:1
 
1.7
:1
 
1.5
:1
 
1.5
:1
 
Per share information attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
Basic—Income (loss) from continuing operations
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.80
)
 
$
(3.15
)
 
$
(0.12
)
 
$
0.14

 
Loss from discontinued operations
 

 
(0.02
)
 
(0.01
)
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.05
)
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.82
)
 
$
(3.16
)
 
$
(0.14
)
(d)
$
0.08

(d)
Diluted—Income (loss) from continuing operations
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.80
)
 
$
(3.15
)
 
$
(0.12
)
 
$
0.13

 
Loss from discontinued operations
 

 
(0.02
)
 
(0.01
)
 
(0.03
)
 
(0.05
)
 
Net income (loss)
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.82
)
 
$
(3.16
)
 
$
(0.14
)
(d)
$
0.08

 
Other information
 
 

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
 

 
Book value per share (e)
 
$
4.44

 
$
7.52

 
$
10.69

 
$
15.16

 
$
18.23

 
Cash dividends declared per share
 
0.820

 
0.820

 
0.820

 
0.820

 
0.820

 
Diluted weighted-average number of shares outstanding
 
80,884

 
80,755

 
80,632

 
80,736

 
80,761

 
Number of employees
 
12,200

 
12,300

 
18,500

 
19,650

 
19,300

 
(a)
Includes impacts of the Infrastructure Transaction consummated on November 26, 2013.
(b)
Return on average equity is calculated by dividing income (loss) from continuing operations by average equity throughout the year.
(c)
Current ratio is calculated by dividing total current assets by total current liabilities.
(d)
Does not total due to rounding.
(e)
Book value per share is calculated by dividing total equity by shares outstanding.

20


Item 7.    Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations.
The following discussion should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements of Harsco Corporation (the "Company") provided under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," of this Annual Report on Form 10-K.
Amounts included in this Item 7 of this Annual Report on Form 10-K are rounded in millions and all percentages are calculated based on actual amounts. As a result, minor differences may exist due to rounding.
Forward-Looking Statements

The nature of the Company's business and the many countries in which it operates subject it to changing economic, competitive, regulatory and technological conditions, risks and uncertainties. In accordance with the "safe harbor" provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Company provides the following cautionary remarks regarding important factors that, among others, could cause future results to differ materially from the results contemplated by forward-looking statements, including the expectations and assumptions expressed or implied herein. Forward-looking statements contained herein could include, among other things, statements about management's confidence in and strategies for performance; expectations for new and existing products, technologies and opportunities; and expectations regarding growth, sales, cash flows, and earnings. Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of such terms as "may," "could," "expect," "anticipate," "intend," "believe," "likely," "estimate," "plan" or other comparable terms.
Factors that could cause actual results to differ, perhaps materially, from those implied by forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to: (1) changes in the worldwide business environment in which the Company operates, including general economic conditions; (2) changes in currency exchange rates, interest rates, commodity and fuel costs and capital costs; (3) changes in the performance of equity and bond markets that could affect, among other things, the valuation of the assets in the Company's pension plans and the accounting for pension assets, liabilities and expenses; (4) changes in governmental laws and regulations, including environmental, occupational health and safety, tax and import tariff standards; (5) market and competitive changes, including pricing pressures, market demand and acceptance for new products, services and technologies; (6) the Company's inability or failure to protect its intellectual property rights from infringement in one or more of the many countries in which the Company operates; (7) failure to effectively prevent, detect or recover from breaches in the Company's cybersecurity infrastructure; (8) unforeseen business disruptions in one or more of the many countries in which the Company operates due to political instability, civil disobedience, armed hostilities, public health issues or other calamities; (9) disruptions associated with labor disputes and increased operating costs associated with union organization; (10) the seasonal nature of the Company's business; (11) the Company's ability to successfully enter into new contracts and complete new acquisitions or strategic ventures in the time-frame contemplated, or at all; (12) the integration of the Company's strategic acquisitions; (13) the amount and timing of repurchases of the Company's common stock, if any; (14) the prolonged recovery in global financial and credit markets and economic conditions generally, which could result in the Company's customers curtailing development projects, construction, production and capital expenditures which, in turn, could reduce the demand for the Company's products and services and, accordingly, the Company's revenues, margins and profitability; (15) the outcome of any disputes with customers, contractors and subcontractors; (16) the financial condition of the Company's customers, including the ability of customers (especially those that may be highly leveraged and those with inadequate liquidity) to maintain their credit availability; (17) the Company's ability to successfully implement and receive the expected benefits of cost-reduction and restructuring initiatives, including the achievement of expected cost savings in the expected time frame; (18) the ability to successfully implement the Company's strategic initiatives and portfolio optimization and the impact of such initiatives, such as the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment's Improvement Plan ("Project Orion"); (19) the ability of the strategic venture between the Company and Clayton, Dubilier & Rice ("CD&R") to effectively integrate the Company's Infrastructure business and the Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services business and realize the synergies contemplated by the transaction; (20) the Company's ability to realize cost savings from the divestiture of the Infrastructure business, as well as the transaction being accretive to earnings and improving operating margins and return on capital; (21) the amount ultimately realized from the Company's exit from the strategic venture between the Company and CD&R and the timing of such exit; (22) risk and uncertainty associated with intangible assets; and (23) other risk factors listed from time to time in the Company's SEC reports. A further discussion of these, along with other potential risk factors, can be found in Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors," of this Annual Report on Form 10-K. The Company cautions that these factors may not be exhaustive and that many of these factors are beyond the Company's ability to control or predict. Accordingly, forward-looking statements should not be relied upon as a prediction of actual results. The Company undertakes no duty to update forward-looking statements except as may be required by law.

21


Executive Overview
In November 2013, the Company consummated the previously announced transaction to sell the Company's Harsco Infrastructure Segment into a strategic venture with CD&R as part of a transaction that combines the Harsco Infrastructure Segment with Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc., which CD&R simultaneously acquired (the "Infrastructure Transaction"). The Company has contributed substantially all of the Company's equity interest in, and the net assets of, the Harsco Infrastructure Segment to the strategic venture in exchange for $300 million, subject to working capital and other adjustments, and an approximate 29% equity interest in the resulting entity (the "Infrastructure strategic venture" or "Brand"). The Company recorded an additional loss on disposal of $3.9 million during 2014. Further adjustment to the loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment may be necessary as the result of the final valuation of certain items. The Company does not expect that the ultimate conclusion of these items will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

In the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, overall global steel production increased modestly while mill utilization remained relatively flat during 2014. Nickel prices and related demand increased moderately during 2014 when compared with the prior year, with the Company also realizing contributions from the ramp-up of new contracts at certain locations. Offsetting these benefits were the impact of certain lost contracts, charges from the Company's actions initiated under Project Orion, charges associated with two steel mill customers in receivership protection and the Company's decisions during the year to address certain underperforming contracts.

In May 2014, the Company began executing Project Orion after conducting an analysis of the business to identify opportunities to improve its core processes and to simplify its organizational structure. The goals of Project Orion are improving financial returns and providing higher and more consistent levels of value added services to customers by improving the bid and contract management process, improving underperforming contracts and simplifying operational structures. The Company incurred $12.0 million in charges related to phases one and two of Project Orion during 2014. As a result of actions initiated under phase one of Project Orion during 2014, the Company realized compensation savings of approximately $6 million for the full year ended December 31, 2014, or approximately $17 million on an annualized basis, with benefits from phase two actions expected to commence in 2015. Annual recurring benefits from compensation and other operational savings under phases one and two of Project Orion are expected to be approximately $24 million and $13 million, respectively. Please see Note 19, Restructuring Programs, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for additional information.

In connection with Project Orion's focus on underperforming contracts, during 2014 the Company recorded pre-tax charges of $47.5 million primarily for site exit costs and non-cash long-lived asset impairment charges to reduce the carrying value of assets at certain sites to fair value based upon the expected future realizable cash flows, including anticipated selling prices, based on the Company's strategic decisions made through the course of the year. The possibility exists that the Company may take similar strategic actions with respect to other underperforming assets at certain sites that may result in additional exit costs and non-cash asset impairment charges in the future when such decisions are finalized.
 
As the Company has previously disclosed, one of the Company's large steel mill customers in Europe filed for protection under Italian receivership procedures (the "Marzano Law"). During 2013, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $2.6 million on receivables with this customer. During 2014, the customer terminated its contract with the Company under the provisions of the Marzano Law. As a result of this termination, the Company recorded an additional bad debt reserve of $3.9 million on the remaining pre-receivership receivables with this customer during 2014. The Company also recorded an additional charge of $7.7 million during 2014 primarily for non-cash long-lived asset impairments to reduce the carrying value of assets used at the customer's site to fair value based upon the expected future realizable cash flows, including anticipated selling prices. Additionally, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $2.6 million during 2014 for one of its Canadian steel mill customers that filed for receivership protection during the course of the year as the Company has previously disclosed. The amount of the bad debt reserve for this customer represents the full pre-receivership balance.
The Harsco Rail Segment's 2014 results benefited from robust demand for its after-market parts and contract services. Partially offsetting these benefits was a decline in the volume of equipment deliveries when compared to 2013, most notably from the decreased volume attributable to completing the large contract with the China Railway Corporation, formerly the China Ministry of Railways (the "CRC").
The Harsco Industrial Segment recorded another strong performance during 2014, led by favorable volume increases in its air-cooled heat exchangers and industrial boilers businesses in the North American market and the benefits from its acquisition of Hammco Corporation ("Hammco") during January 2014. The Hammco acquisition provides the Harsco Industrial Segment with an entry into the process cooler market. The Segment experienced decreased demand in the Asia-Pacific market for its air-cooled heat exchangers and in the North American market for its industrial grating products.

22


Revenues by Segment
(Dollars in millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
%
Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
$
1,377.6

 
$
1,359.0

 
$
18.6

 
1.4
 %
Harsco Infrastructure (a)
 

 
885.4

 
(885.4
)
 
(100.0
)
Harsco Industrial
 
412.5

 
366.0

 
46.6

 
12.7

Harsco Rail
 
275.6

 
286.2

 
(10.6
)
 
(3.7
)
Total Revenues
 
$
2,065.7

 
$
2,896.5

 
$
(830.8
)
 
(28.7
)%
(a) In November 2013, the Company consummated the Infrastructure Transaction and, accordingly, there is no revenue for the Harsco Infrastructure Segment for 2014. The results of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment from January 1, 2013 through the date of closing are reported in the Company's results of operations for 2013.

Revenues by Region
(Dollars in millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
%
Western Europe
 
$
588.2

 
$
1,061.3

 
$
(473.1
)
 
(44.6
)%
North America
 
940.9

 
1,094.3

 
(153.4
)
 
(14.0
)
Latin America (b)
 
247.9

 
317.6

 
(69.7
)
 
(21.9
)
Asia-Pacific
 
157.5

 
186.3

 
(28.8
)
 
(15.5
)
Middle East and Africa
 
66.5

 
154.6

 
(88.0
)
 
(57.0
)
Eastern Europe
 
64.7

 
82.5

 
(17.8
)
 
(21.5
)
Total Revenues
 
$
2,065.7

 
$
2,896.5

 
$
(830.8
)
 
(28.7
)%
(b) Includes Mexico.
Revenues for the Company totaled $2.1 billion and $2.9 billion for 2014 and 2013, respectively. The change is primarily related to the Harsco Infrastructure Segment that was disposed of as part of the Infrastructure Transaction in the fourth quarter of 2013. Foreign currency translation decreased revenues by $20.0 million for 2014 in comparison with the prior year. Revenues from the Company's targeted growth markets (those outside North America and Western Europe) were approximately 26% of total revenues in 2014 and 2013.

Operating Income (Loss) by Segment (c)
(Dollars in millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
Change
 
%
Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
$
9.9

 
$
95.3

 
$
(85.5
)
 
(89.7
)%
Harsco Infrastructure (d)
 

 
(255.3
)
 
255.3

 
100.0

Harsco Industrial
 
63.7

 
59.0

 
4.7

 
8.0

Harsco Rail
 
37.1

 
27.7

 
9.4

 
34.0

Corporate (e)
 
(47.2
)
 
(61.5
)
 
14.3

 
23.2

Total Operating Income (Loss)
 
$
63.5

 
$
(134.8
)
 
$
198.3

 
147.1
 %

Operating Margins by Segment (c)
 
 
2014
 
2013
Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
0.7
%
 
7.0
 %
Harsco Infrastructure (d)
 

 
(28.8
)
Harsco Industrial
 
15.4

 
16.1

Harsco Rail
 
13.5

 
9.7

Consolidated Operating Margin
 
3.1
%
 
(4.7
)%
(c) The Company has reclassified segment operating results for the twelve months ended December 31, 2013 to conform to the revised manner in which the Company now allocates corporate expenses to operating segments as a result of changes in organizational structure resulting from the Infrastructure Transaction, which occurred in the fourth quarter of 2013. The changes do not impact the Company's previously reported consolidated revenues from continuing operations, operating income (loss) from continuing operations or income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income.
(d) In November 2013, the Company consummated the Infrastructure Transaction and, accordingly, there is no operating income (loss) for the Harsco Infrastructure Segment for 2014. The results of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment from January 1, 2013 through the date of closing are reported in the Company's results of operations for 2013.
(e) For the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, Corporate includes a $6.1 million loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs. Additionally, for the twelve months ended December 31, 2014, Corporate includes net periodic pension cost for defined benefit pension plans retained by the Company as part of the Infrastructure Transaction of $5.7 million.





23


Operating income from continuing operations for 2014 was $63.5 million compared with an operating loss from continuing operations of $134.8 million in 2013

Factors Positively Affecting Operating Income:
Year over year decline in the loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment including transaction costs of $291.4 million recorded during 2013 compared with $6.1 million recorded during 2014.
Year over year decline in the non-cash long-lived asset impairment charge on rail grinders used in providing contract services in the Harsco Rail Segment of $9.0 million recorded during 2013 compared with $0.6 million recorded during 2014.

Factors Negatively Impacting Operating Income:
Project Orion restructuring charges of $12.0 million recorded during 2014.
Charges of $47.5 million recorded during 2014, primarily for site exit costs and non-cash long-lived asset impairment charges, associated with strategic actions from Project Orion's focus on underperforming contracts.
Administrative costs increased by $17.9 million during 2014 primarily attributable to increased consulting costs to support Project Orion, inflationary measures on compensation and welfare benefits and site ramp-ups in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment..
Increased bad debt reserve of $3.9 million and a charge of $7.7 million, primarily for non-cash long lived asset impairment, for the Company's large steel mill customer in Europe in receivership, and a bad debt reserve of $2.6 million for one of the Company's Canadian steel mill customers that filed for receivership protection.
Increased reserves for various Brazilian labor claims of $7.5 million for the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.
This change in Operating income (loss) from continuing operations, the non-cash Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability related to the Infrastructure Transaction and a decrease in income taxes were the primary drivers of the diluted loss per share from continuing operations for 2014 of $0.31 compared with a loss of $2.80 for 2013.
The Company continues to have sufficient available liquidity and has been able to obtain all necessary financing. The Company currently expects operational and business needs to be covered by cash from operations supplemented with borrowings from time to time due to historical patterns of seasonal cash flow and for the funding of various projects. See Liquidity and Capital Resources under Part II, Item 7, "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" for further discussion on cash flows.

Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment:
Significant Effects on Revenues (In millions)
 
 
Revenues—2013
 
$
1,359.0

Net effects of price/volume changes, primarily attributable to volume changes.
 
78.5

Net impact of new contracts and lost contracts (including exited underperforming contracts).
 
(40.1
)
Impact of foreign currency translation.
 
(19.8
)
Revenues—2014
 
$
1,377.6

Factors Positively Affecting Operating Income:
Nickel prices increased 12% during 2014 compared with 2013.
Increased global steel production in the metals services business. Overall, steel production by customers under services contracts increased 2% during 2014 compared with 2013.
Compensation savings of $6.0 million realized under phase one of Project Orion.
Impact of the ramp-up of new contracts and exited underperforming contracts of $12.6 million during 2014 compared with 2013.

Factors Negatively Impacting Operating Income:
Project Orion restructuring charges of $12.0 million recorded during 2014.
Charges of $47.5 million recorded during 2014, primarily attributable to site exit costs and non-cash long-lived asset impairment charges, associated with strategic actions from Project Orion's focus on underperforming contracts.
Increased bad debt reserve of $3.9 million and a charge of $7.7 million, primarily for non-cash long-lived asset impairment, as a result of a contract termination during 2014 for one of the Company's steel mill customers in Europe in receivership.
Administrative costs increased by $17.9 million during 2014 primarily attributable to increased consulting costs to support Project Orion, inflationary measures on compensation and welfare benefits and site ramp-ups.

24


Increased bad debt reserve of $2.6 million, net of value added tax, recorded during 2014 for one of the Company's Canadian steel mill customers that filed for receivership.
Reserves for Brazilian labor and non-income tax claims increased by $7.5 million.
Increased bad debt reserves of $3.6 million, net of value added tax, recorded during 2014 for one of the Company's steel mill customers in Europe as a result of missed progress payments.
Reduced operating income of $2.8 million from the impacts of foreign currency translation.

Harsco Industrial Segment:
Significant Effects on Revenues (In millions)
 
 
Revenues—2013
 
$
366.0

Effect of Hammco acquisition.
 
32.7

Net effects of price/volume changes, primarily attributable to volume changes.
 
15.9

Impact of foreign currency translation.
 
(2.1
)
Revenues—2014
 
$
412.5

Factors Positively Affecting Operating Income:
Incremental effect of $1.4 million attributable to the acquisition of Hammco in January 2014, a U.S. manufacturer of high specifications air-cooled heat exchangers for the natural gas and petrochemical processing markets.
Higher gains from sale of assets of $1.3 million during 2014 compared with 2013.
Improved demand in North America for air-cooled heat exchangers and industrial boilers.

Factors Negatively Impacting Operating Income:
Decreased demand in the Asia-Pacific market for air-cooled heat exchangers.
Decreased demand for industrial grating products.
Foreign currency translation did not significantly impact operating income in 2014 compared with 2013.

Harsco Rail Segment:
Significant Impacts on Revenues (In millions)
 
 
Revenues—2013
 
$
286.2

Net impacts of price/volume changes, primarily attributable to volume changes.
 
(12.5
)
Effect of foreign currency translation.
 
1.9

Revenues—2014
 
$
275.6


Factors Positively Affecting Operating Income:
Robust demand for after-market parts increased operating income by $10.3 million during 2014 compared with 2013.
Year over year decline in the non-cash long lived asset impairment charge on certain rail grinders used in providing contract services of $9.0 million in 2013 compared with $0.6 million for 2014.

Factors Negatively Impacting Operating Income:
Decreased volume from equipment sales, primarily due to the completion of the large contract with the CRC, that decreased operating income by $2.9 million during 2014 compared with 2013.
Increased administrative costs of $3.9 million during 2014 compared with 2013 primarily due to inflationary measures on compensation, increased professional fees, and increased costs associated with international expansion.
Increased material costs of $2.7 million during 2014 compared with 2013.
Foreign currency translation did not significantly impact operating income in 2014 when compared with 2013.









25


Outlook, Trends and Strategies
Despite uncertainties in the global economy, along with the challenges of global steel production and related pricing, the Company believes it is positioned to execute actions in the short- to medium-term to transform the Company to generating top quartile returns for its stockholders. Through a disciplined focus on return based capital allocations and business portfolio strategies, the Company expects its transformation process will enable it to generate returns above its cost of capital with a balanced business portfolio without endangering its financial profile with unreasonable leverage.
These business portfolio strategies will focus on improving the performance of the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment through executing Project Orion, which is aimed at driving operational efficiencies through simplifying its business model, establishing necessary protocols to facilitate better contract outcomes and improving the mix of its products and services with higher value added offerings. For the Harsco Rail and Industrial Segments, the Company will focus on disciplined growth organically and through acquisitions that improve these businesses' competitive positions in core markets or adjacent market spaces. The Company will continue to pursue cost-reduction and efficiency initiatives, including Continuous Improvement, which have significantly reduced, and are expected to continue to reduce, the Company's cost structure and further enhance its financial strength without diminishing its services and products capabilities. As part of these initiatives, the Company will continue to focus on developing an active, lean corporate center that optimizes corporate costs while continuing to develop value added activities to support the Company in its transformation.
The Company's expansion into targeted growth markets; its diversity of services and products in industries that are fundamental to global growth; its long-term mill services and minerals supply contracts; its return based capital allocations and business portfolio strategies; its focus on executing cost reduction and efficiency initiatives; and the 29% equity interest in Brand, help mitigate the Company's overall long-term exposure to changes in the economic outlook in any single economy or industry. However, deterioration of global economies and industries could still have an adverse impact on the Company's results of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
The following significant items, risks, trends and strategies are expected to affect the Company in 2015 and beyond:
The Company will focus on the goal of providing top quartile returns for its stockholders by balancing its portfolio of businesses, and by executing its strategic and operational strategies with reasonable amounts of financial leverage.
The Company will focus on executing Project Orion to generate compensation and other operational savings in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.
The Company will continue to build and develop strong core capabilities and develop an active and lean corporate center that balances costs with value added services.
Management will continue to be selective and disciplined in allocating capital by rigorously analyzing projects and utilizing a return based capital allocation process.
The Company will focus on growing the Harsco Industrial and Harsco Rail Segments through disciplined organic expansion and acquisitions that improve these businesses' competitive positioning in core markets or adjacent market spaces. Management will target acquisitive growth that provides synergistic benefits to the Company, either through cost synergies from combined platforms or revenue synergies from expanded offerings and scalability.
The Company expects that the Infrastructure Transaction will provide synergies and growth potential in the Infrastructure strategic venture that create additional value for the Company's equity interest upon exit in the future.
The Company will continue to place a strong focus on disciplined growth and expansion into targeted emerging markets to grow and improve the balance of its geographic footprint. More specifically, the Company's global growth strategies include steady, targeted expansion, particularly in Asia-Pacific, the Gulf Region of the Middle East and Africa to further complement the Company's already strong presence throughout Europe and North America. Growth is expected to be achieved through the provision of additional services to existing customers, new higher margin contracts and higher valued added service offerings in both developed and targeted growth markets, and targeted strategic ventures and partnerships. Over time, a balanced geographic footprint should also benefit the Company through further diversification of its customer base.







26


Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment:
The Company will focus on improving the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment's returns through executing Project Orion. The goals of Project Orion are improving financial returns and providing higher and more consistent levels of value added services to customers by improving the bid and contract management process, improving underperforming contracts and simplifying operational structures. The Company expects annualized, recurring benefits in the form of compensation and other operational savings of approximately $37 million from Project Orion.
The Company will continue its focus on ensuring that forecasted profits for contracts meet certain established requirements and deliver returns above its cost of capital. Project Orion's focus is intended to enable the Company to address underperforming contracts more rapidly with targeted actions to improve the operational efficiencies of the business through central protocols to monitor activities, structures and systems that aid in decision making, and processes designed to identify the best strategic actions available to address underperforming contracts and its overall contract portfolio. In connection with this focus, the possibility exists that the Company may take strategic actions that result in exit costs and non-cash asset impairment charges that may have an adverse effect on the Company's results of operations and liquidity.
The Company will continue to focus on winning contracts in emerging markets where steel production is increasing and where the customers value the Company's environmental solutions.
The Company will emphasize prudent global expansion of its on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing business for extracting high-value metallic content from slag and responsibly handling and recycling residual materials. Environmental services provide growth opportunities in the on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing business as additional outsourced functions in slag management of stainless steel and other high-value metals arise.
Over the past several years, the Company has been in discussions with officials at the Supreme Council for Environment in Bahrain with regard to a processing by-product ("salt cakes") located at Hafeera.  The Company is currently assessing the options available for processing or removing the salt cakes.  To the extent the Company is unable to find commercially viable opportunities to market the salt cakes, it may be required to incur the cost of moving the salt cakes to another location.  The impact of any such removal on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows cannot be determined at this time, but may be significant.
Harsco Industrial Segment:
The Company anticipates recent oil price volatility to continue to impact capital expenditures and overall spending in the natural gas, natural gas processing and petrochemical industries. Accordingly, these factors may negatively impact revenue and operating income in 2015 in the Harsco Industrial Segment.
The Company will continue to focus on product innovation and development to drive strategic growth in its businesses.
The Company will focus on growing the Harsco Industrial Segment through disciplined organic expansion and acquisitions that improve competitive positioning in core markets or adjacent market spaces. The Company acquired Hammco in January 2014 as part of the Company's focus on growing the Harsco Industrial Segment through disciplined expansion. This acquisition provides the Harsco Industrial Segment with an entry into the process cooler market.
Harsco Rail Segment:
The outlook for this Segment continues to be favorable. The global demand for railway maintenance-of-way equipment, parts and services continues to be strong, giving positive indication of further opportunities. The Company anticipates modest organic growth in its after-market parts business and expected deliveries of existing equipment orders.
The success in China has been leveraged to secure several new orders in other geographies. The Company secured a second contract award worth over $100 million through 2017 from the federal railway system of Switzerland (the "SBB"), during 2014. The award comes as a follow-on option to the Company's previously awarded contract with the SBB worth more than $100 million. The Company's capabilities to compete and deliver on large projects provides increased opportunities to build out its pipeline further, and enables the Company to continue to pursue other large projects.
The Harsco Rail Segment expects to develop a larger presence in certain developing countries as track construction and maintenance needs grow.  Additionally, sales opportunities along with strategic acquisitions and/or strategic ventures in the Harsco Rail Segment will be considered if the appropriate strategic opportunities arise.





27


Results of Operations for 2014, 2013 and 2012
(In millions, except per share information and percentages)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Revenues from continuing operations
 
$
2,065.7

 
$
2,896.5

 
$
3,046.0

Cost of services and products sold
 
1,646.8

 
2,234.2

 
2,349.5

Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
285.3

 
481.1

 
503.3

Research and development expenses
 
6.3

 
9.6

 
9.1

Goodwill impairment charge
 

 

 
265.0

Loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs
 
6.1

 
291.4

 

Other expenses
 
57.8

 
15.1

 
93.8

Operating income (loss) from continuing operations
 
63.5

 
(134.8
)
 
(174.8
)
Interest income
 
1.7

 
2.1

 
3.7

Interest expense
 
(47.1
)
 
(49.7
)
 
(47.4
)
Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability
 
(9.7
)
 
(1.0
)
 

Income tax expense from continuing operations
 
(27.2
)
 
(34.9
)
 
(35.3
)
Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated entities, net
 
(1.6
)
 
1.5

 
0.6

Loss from continuing operations
 
(20.4
)
 
(216.7
)
 
(253.2
)
Diluted loss per common share from continuing operations attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
(0.31
)
 
(2.80
)
 
(3.15
)
Effective income tax rate for continuing operations
 
326.5
%
 
(19.0
)%
 
(16.1
)%
Comparative Analysis of Consolidated Results
Revenues
Revenues for 2014 decreased $830.8 million or 29% from 2013. This decrease was attributable to the following significant items:
Changes in Revenues - 2014 vs. 2013
 
(In millions)
Revenue decrease following the Infrastructure Transaction.
 
$
(885.4
)
Net impact of new contracts and lost contracts (including exited underperforming contracts) in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.
 
(40.1
)
Impact of foreign currency translation.
 
(20.0
)
Net change in revenues in the Harsco Rail Segment, primarily attributable to the completion of the large China contract with CRC.
 
(12.4
)
Net effects of price/volume changes in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, primarily attributable to volume changes.
 
78.5

Net increased revenues in the Harsco Industrial Segment, primarily attributable to the effects of its business acquisition.
 
48.6

Total change in revenues - 2014 vs. 2013
 
$
(830.8
)

Revenues for 2013 decreased $149.5 million or 5% from 2012. This increase was attributable to the following significant items:
Changes in Revenues - 2013 vs. 2012
 
(In millions)
Net decreased revenues in the Harsco Rail Segment due principally to the completion of the large contract with the CRC.
 
$
(64.2
)
Impact of timing of the Infrastructure Transaction.
 
(62.9
)
Exited underperforming contracts in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.
 
(38.9
)
Impact of foreign currency translation.
 
(21.6
)
Impact of exited operations in certain countries in the Harsco Infrastructure Segment.
 
(12.4
)
Net increased revenues in the Harsco Infrastructure Segment due principally to increased volumes and mix.
 
24.9

Increased market demand with gains in market share in the principally energy-related and industrial grating markets served by the businesses in the Harsco Industrial Segment.
 
13.8

Net increased revenues in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment due to price/volume, primarily attributable to volume changes.
 
11.8

Total change in revenues - 2013 vs. 2012
 
$
(149.5
)




28


Cost of Services and Products Sold
Cost of services and products sold for 2014 decreased $587.4 million or 26% from 2013. This decrease was attributable to the following significant items:
Change in Cost of Services and Products Sold - 2014 vs. 2013
 
(In millions)
Impact of timing of Infrastructure Transaction.
 
$
(636.6
)
Impact of foreign currency translation.
 
(21.9
)
Increased costs due to changes in revenues (exclusive of the effect of foreign currency translation, the effects of the timing of the Infrastructure Transaction, and the impact of fluctuations in commodity costs included in selling prices).
 
52.3

Other.
 
18.8

Total Change in Cost of Services and Products Sold 2014 vs. 2013
 
$
(587.4
)

Cost of services and products sold for 2013 decreased $115.3 million or 5% from 2012. This increase was attributable to the following significant items:
Change in Cost of Services and Products Sold - 2013 vs. 2012
 
(In millions)
Impact of timing of Infrastructure Transaction.
 
$
(61.3
)
Impact of foreign currency translation.
 
(24.4
)
Decreased costs due to changes in revenues (exclusive of the effect of foreign currency translation, and including the impact of restructuring program savings and the impact of fluctuations in commodity costs included in selling prices).
 
(17.5
)
Impact of exited operations in certain countries in the Harsco Infrastructure Segment.
 
(12.1
)
Total Change in Cost of Services and Products Sold 2013 vs. 2012
 
$
(115.3
)

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses
Selling, general and administrative expenses for 2014 decreased $195.8 million or 41% from 2013. This decrease was attributable to the following significant items:
Changes in Selling, General and Administrative Expenses - 2014 vs. 2013
 
(In millions)
Impact of timing of Infrastructure Transaction.
 
$
(228.2
)
Increased compensation expense due to inflation, incentives, and retained pension costs from the Infrastructure Transaction.
 
15.3

Increased bad debt expense.
 
7.0

Increased commission expense.
 
4.3

Increased professional fees.
 
4.1

Other.
 
1.7

Total Change in Selling, General and Administrative Expenses 2014 vs. 2013

$
(195.8
)

Selling, general and administrative expenses for 2013 decreased $22.3 million or 4% from 2012. This increase was attributable to the following significant items:
Changes in Selling, General and Administrative Expenses - 2013 vs. 2012
 
(In millions)
Decreased compensation expense due to the realization of cost savings benefits from restructuring activities, exited operations in the Harsco Infrastructure Segment, and timing of the Infrastructure Transaction.
 
$
(20.0
)
Decreased commissions primarily due to lower sales in the Harsco Rail Segment.
 
(6.7
)
Decreased insurance expense.
 
(2.2
)
Lower bad debt expense.
 
(1.0
)
Effect of foreign currency translation.
 
(0.7
)
Increased professional fees.
 
9.0

Other.
 
(0.7
)
Total Change in Selling, General and Administrative Expenses 2013 vs. 2012
 
$
(22.3
)

Loss on Disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and Transaction Costs
The Company recorded an additional loss on disposal of $3.9 million during 2014. Additionally, the Company incurred $2.2 million of transaction costs during 2014 in conjunction with the Infrastructure Transaction.

Please see Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data" for additional information on the Infrastructure Transaction.


29


Other Expenses
This income statement classification includes: restructuring program costs for employee termination benefits, net gains on the disposal of non-core assets, impaired asset write-downs, product line rationalization and costs to exit activities. The most significant change in Other expenses relates to restructuring program costs for employee termination benefits primarily incurred under Project Orion and for site exit costs and non-cash long-lived asset impairment charges associated with Project Orion's focus on addressing underperforming contracts during 2014 in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment. Additional information on Other expenses is included in Note 17, Other expenses, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded pre-tax Other expenses of $57.8 million, $15.1 million and $93.8 million, respectively. The major components of this income statement caption are as follows:
 
 
Other (Income) Expenses
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Net gains
 
$
(6,718
)
 
$
(4,657
)
 
$
(5,848
)
Employee termination benefits costs
 
19,120

 
3,928

 
31,158

Costs to exit activities
 
4,908

 
5,382

 
38,626

Product line rationalization
 

 

 
24,966

Impaired asset write-downs
 
39,455

 
9,688

 
7,152

Other (income) expense
 
1,059

 
769

 
(2,278
)
Total
 
$
57,824

 
$
15,110

 
$
93,776

Interest Expense
2014 vs. 2013
Interest expense in 2014 was $47.1 million, a decrease of $2.5 million or 5% compared with 2013. The decrease primarily reflects lower average borrowings over the course of the year after consummating the Infrastructure Transaction.

2013 vs. 2012
Interest expense in 2013 was $49.7 million, an increase of $2.3 million or 5% compared with 2012. The increase primarily reflects higher average borrowings prior to the Infrastructure Transaction.

Change in Fair Value to the Unit Adjustment Liability
This caption represents the non-cash fair value adjustment to the Company's unit adjustment liability related to the Infrastructure Transaction since November 26, 2013.

As part of the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company is required to make quarterly payments to its partner in the Infrastructure strategic venture. The resulting liability is reflected in the caption, Unit adjustment liability, on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company will recognize the change in the fair value of the unit adjustment liability each period until the Company is no longer required to make these payments or chooses not to make these payments. The change in the fair value of the unit adjustment liability is a non-cash expense. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company recognized expense of $9.7 million and $1.0 million related to the change in the fair value of the unit adjustment liability.

The Company's obligation to make such quarterly payments will cease upon the earlier of (i) Brand achieving $487.0 million in last twelve months' EBITDA for three quarters, which need not be consecutive, or (ii) eight years after the closing of the Infrastructure Transaction. In addition, upon the initial public offering of Brand, the Company's quarterly payment obligation will decrease by the portion of CD&R's ownership interest sold and is eliminated completely once CD&R's ownership interest in Brand falls below 20%. In the event of a liquidation event of Brand, CD&R is entitled to a liquidation preference of approximately $336 million, plus any quarterly payments that had been paid in kind.

The Company intends to make these quarterly payments in cash and will continue to evaluate the implications of making payments in cash or in kind based upon performance of the Infrastructure strategic venture. In the future, should the Company decide not to make the cash payment, the value of both the equity method investment in Brand and the related unit adjustment liability may be impacted, and the change may be reflected in earnings in that period.





30


Income Tax Expense from Continuing Operations

2014 vs. 2013
Income tax expense from continuing operations in 2014 was $27.2 million, a decrease of $7.7 million compared with 2013. This decrease was principally due to restructuring and asset impairment charges in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment for which no tax benefit was recorded. The effective income tax rate relating to continued operations for 2014 was 326.5% versus (19.0)% for 2013. The effective income tax rate changed between 2013 and 2014 primarily due to restructuring and asset impairment charges from the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment for which no tax benefit was recorded.
2013 vs. 2012
Income tax expense from continuing operations in 2013 was $34.9 million, a decrease of $0.3 million compared with 2012. This slight decrease was due to the tax effects of the jurisdictional mix of the $291.4 million non-cash long lived asset impairment charge and transaction costs from the Infrastructure Transaction, valuation allowances recorded against deferred tax assets within certain foreign jurisdictions that Infrastructure operated and additional tax costs of cash repatriation from the Infrastructure Transaction. The effective income tax rate relating to continued operations for 2013 was (19.0)% versus (16.1)% for 2012. The effective income tax rate changed between 2012 and 2013 primarily due to the jurisdictional mix of the $291.4 million non-cash long lived asset impairment charge and transaction costs for the Infrastructure Transaction in 2013 compared with $265.0 million non-deductible, non-cash goodwill impairment charges recorded during 2012, tax expense recorded for valuation allowances on deferred tax assets within certain foreign jurisdictions that Infrastructure operated, and for the additional tax costs of repatriation from the Infrastructure Transaction.
For additional detail, see Note 11, Income Taxes, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

Loss from Continuing Operations

2014 vs. 2013
A loss from continuing operations in 2014 of $20.4 million was $196.3 million lower than the loss from continuing operations in 2013 of $216.7 million. This decrease was principally driven by: the year over year decline in the loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs of $291.4 million recorded during 2013 compared with $6.1 million recorded during 2014; Project Orion restructuring charges of $12.0 million recorded during 2014; charges of $47.5 million recorded during 2014, primarily for site exit costs and non-cash long-lived asset impairment charges, associated with strategic actions from Project Orion's focus on underperforming contracts; and increased expense of $8.8 million for the change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability related to the Infrastructure Transaction.

2013 vs. 2012
A loss from continuing operations in 2013 of $216.7 million was $36.5 million lower than the loss from continuing operations in 2012 of $253.2 million. This decrease was principally driven by non-repeated restructuring charges associated with the 2011/2012 Restructuring Program of $94.5 million and the pre-tax $265.0 million goodwill impairment charge in the Harsco Infrastructure Segment, partially offset by the $291.4 million loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs for the Infrastructure Transaction, and lower volume in the Harsco Rail Segment.












31


Liquidity and Capital Resources
Overview
The Company continues to have sufficient available liquidity and has been able to obtain all necessary financing. The Company currently expects operational and business needs to be met by cash from operations supplemented with borrowings from time to time due to historical patterns of seasonal cash flow and for the funding of various projects.
The Company continues to implement and perform on capital efficiency initiatives to enhance liquidity. These initiatives have included: prudent reduction of capital spending to projects where the highest returns can be achieved while redeploying existing capital investments; optimization of worldwide cash positions; reductions in discretionary spending; and frequent evaluation of customer and business-partner credit risk.
During 2014, the Company generated $225.8 million in operating cash flow, an increase from the $188.3 million generated in 2013. The Company disbursed $6.6 million of cash 2014 for restructuring costs associated with the 2011/2012 Restructuring Program and Project Orion, which are described in Note 19, Restructuring Programs, under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," compared to $13.7 million associated with the Fourth Quarter 2010 Harsco Infrastructure Program and the 2011/2012 Restructuring Program in 2013. In 2014, the Company invested $208.0 million in capital expenditures, mostly for the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, compared with $246.1 million invested in 2013. The Company paid approximately $66 million in dividends to stockholders in both 2014 and 2013.
The Company's net cash borrowings increased by $55.3 million in 2014 principally due to increased credit facility borrowings related to the Hammco acquisition and the payment of the unit adjustment liability, which are described in Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions and Note 5, Equity Method Investments, under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,". The Company’s total consolidated debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio was 3.1 to 1.0 at December 31, 2014.
The Company plans to redeploy discretionary cash for disciplined organic growth and international or market-segment diversification; for growth in long-term, higher-return service contracts for the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, principally in targeted growth markets or for customer diversification; and for strategic investments or possible acquisitions in the Harsco Rail and Harsco Industrial Segments. The Company also foresees continuing its long and consistent history of paying dividends to stockholders.
The Company continues its focus on improving working capital efficiency. The Company's Continuous Improvement initiatives are being used to further improve effective and efficient use of working capital, particularly in accounts receivable and inventories.
The Company generated $15.0 million in cash flow from asset sales in 2014 compared with $19.0 million in 2013. Asset sales have been a normal part of the Company's business model, primarily for the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.
























32


Cash Requirements
The following summarizes the Company's expected future payments related to contractual obligations and commercial commitments at December 31, 2014:
Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments at December 31, 2014 (a)
 
 
 
 
Payments Due by Period
(In millions)
 
Total
 
Less than
1 year
 
1-3
years
 
3-5
years
 
After 5
years
Short-term borrowings
 
$
16.7

 
$
16.7

 
$

 
$

 
$

Long-term debt (including current maturities and capital leases)
 
854.9

 
25.2

 
374.8

 
454.6

 
0.3

Projected interest payments on long-term debt (b)
 
106.2

 
37.5

 
58.5

 
10.2

 

Pension obligations (c)
 
33.7

 
33.7

 

 

 

Operating leases (non-cancellable) (d)
 
65.1

 
14.6

 
18.1

 
7.6

 
24.8

Purchase obligations (e)
 
172.5

 
148.1

 
24.4

 

 

Cross currency interest rate swaps (f)
 
530.4

 
26.8

 
54.6

 
224.2

 
224.8

Foreign currency forward exchange contracts (g)
 
468.8

 
468.8

 

 

 

Unit adjustment liability (h)
 
121.3

 
22.3

 
44.6

 
44.6

 
9.8

Total contractual obligations (i)
 
$
2,369.6

 
$
793.7

 
$
575.0

 
$
741.2

 
$
259.7

(a)
See Note 5, Equity Method Investments; Note 8, Debt and Credit Agreements; Note 9, Operating Leases; Note 10, Employee Benefit Plans; Note 11, Income Taxes; and Note 15, Financial Instruments, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosures on the unit adjustment liability; short-term borrowings and long-term debt (including capital leases); operating leases; pensions; income taxes; and cross currency interest rate swaps and foreign currency forward exchange contracts, respectively.
(b)
The total projected interest payments on long-term debt are based upon borrowings, interest rates and foreign currency exchange rates at December 31, 2014. The interest rates on variable-rate debt and the foreign currency exchange rates are subject to changes beyond the Company's control and may result in actual interest expense and payments differing from the amounts projected above.
(c)
Amounts represent expected employer contributions to the defined benefit pension plans for the next year. The Company expects to make a minimum of $33.7 million in cash contributions to its defined benefit pension plans during 2015. Previously the Company included expected benefit payments to participants over the next 10 years in this caption.
(d)
The increase in contractual obligations related to operating leases (non-cancellable) since December 31, 2013 relates primarily to the new facility lease agreement for the Harsco Industrial Segment's Air-cooled heat exchangers business in Tulsa, OK.
(e)
Purchase obligations represent legally binding obligations to purchase property, plant and equipment, inventory and other commitments made in the normal course of business to meet operations requirements. The increase in purchase obligations relates primarily to raw materials commitments for the Harsco Rail Segment related to the SBB project that commenced in 2014.
(f)
Amounts represent the notional value of the cross currency interest rate swaps outstanding at December 31, 2014. Due to the nature of these contracts, there will be offsetting cash flows of approximately $599 million to these obligations. The cross currency interest rate swaps are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value.
(g)
Amounts represent the notional value of the foreign currency exchange contracts outstanding at December 31, 2014. Due to the nature of these contracts, there will be offsetting cash flows of approximately $469 million to these obligations, with the difference recognized as a gain or loss in the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
(h)
Amounts represent expected payments related to the unit adjustment liability that resulted from the Infrastructure Transaction. See Note 5, Equity Method Investments, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional information on the unit adjustment liability.
(i)
At December 31, 2014, in addition to the above contractual obligations, the Company had $12.3 million of potential long-term tax liabilities, including interest and penalties, related to uncertain tax positions. Because of the high degree of uncertainty regarding the future cash flows associated with these potential long-term tax liabilities, the Company is unable to estimate the years in which settlement will occur with the respective taxing authorities. These long-term tax liabilities may be partially offset by loss carry forwards of $7.8 million which may be recognized upon the resolution of certain uncertain tax positions.















33


Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements
The following table summarizes the Company's contingent commercial commitments at December 31, 2014. These amounts are not included on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets since there are no current circumstances known to management indicating that the Company will be required to make payments on these contingent commercial commitments.
Commercial Commitments at December 31, 2014
 
 
 
 
Amount of Commercial Commitment Expiration Per Period
(In millions)
 
Total
 
Less than
1 Year
 
1-3
Years
 
3-5
Years
 
Over 5
Years
 
Indefinite
Expiration
Standby letters of credit
 
$
97.5

 
$
89.2

 
$
7.7

 
$
0.6

 
$

 
$

Guarantees
 
80.5

 
15.5

 

 

 
8.0

 
57.0

Performance bonds (a)
 
97.6

 
96.0

 

 

 

 
1.6

Other commercial commitments
 
11.4

 

 

 

 

 
11.4

Total commercial commitments
 
$
287.0

 
$
200.7

 
$
7.7

 
$
0.6

 
$
8.0

 
$
70.0

(a)
The increase in performance bonds relates primarily to advance payments for the Harsco Rail Segment related to the contract awards from the SBB that commenced in 2014.
Certain commercial commitments that are of a continuous nature do not have an expiration date and are therefore considered to be indefinite in nature. Please refer to Note 15, Financial Instruments, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosures related to off-balance sheet agreements.
Sources and Uses of Cash
The Company’s principal sources of liquidity are cash from operations and borrowings under its Amended and Restated Five Year Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement"), augmented by cash proceeds from asset sales.  The primary drivers of the Company’s cash flow from operations are the Company’s revenues and income.  Cash returns on capital investments made in prior years, for which limited cash is currently required, are a significant source of cash from operations.  Depreciation expense related to these capital investments is a non-cash charge. 
Major uses of operating cash flows and borrowings include: capital investments, principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment; payroll costs and related benefits; dividend payments; pension funding payments; inventory purchases for the Harsco Rail and Harsco Industrial Segments; income tax payments; debt principal and interest payments; insurance premiums and payments of self-insured casualty losses; payment of the unit adjustment liability; and machinery, equipment, automobile and facility lease payments.
Resources Available for Cash Requirements for Operational and Growth Initiatives
In addition to utilizing cash from operations and cash proceeds from asset sales, the Company has bank credit facilities available throughout the world. Public markets are also accessed through discrete-term note issuance to investors.  The Company also utilizes capital leases to finance the acquisition of certain equipment when appropriate which allows the Company to minimize capital expenditures. The Company expects to continue to utilize all these sources to meet its future cash requirements for operations and growth initiatives.
The following table illustrates available credit at December 31, 2014:
(In millions)
 
Facility Limit
 
Outstanding
Balance
 
Available
Credit
Multi-year revolving credit facility
 
$
525.0

 
$
98.5

 
$
426.5

In March 2012, the Company entered into the Credit Agreement providing for $525.0 million of borrowing capacity through a syndicate of 14 banks.  The Credit Agreement matures in March 2017.  The Company has the option to increase the borrowing capacity available under the Credit Agreement to $550 million. Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are available in most major currencies with active markets and at interest rates based upon LIBOR, plus a margin.

On September 12, 2013, the Company entered into Amendment No.1 ("Amendment No. 1") to the Credit Agreement. In addition to certain administrative and conforming modifications, Amendment No. 1 replaced the total consolidated debt to total consolidated capital ratio debt covenant. That debt covenant was replaced by a debt covenant for total consolidated debt to consolidated EBITDA, which is not to exceed 3.5 to 1.0. During the three months ended September 30, 2013, the Company expensed $0.4 million of fees associated with Amendment No. 1.


34


On December 20, 2013, the Company entered into Amendment No. 2 ("Amendment No. 2") to the Credit Agreement.  Amendment No. 2 modified certain defined terms to reflect the impact of the Infrastructure Transaction. During the three months ended December 31, 2013, the Company expensed $0.3 million of fees associated with Amendment No. 2.
During the third quarter of 2013, the Company's U.S. commercial paper program was canceled. The cancellation of the Company's U.S. commercial paper program had no impact on the Company's liquidity and capital resources because the Company had sufficient available credit under the Credit Agreement.
Additionally, the Company retired the $150.0 million aggregate principal amount of 5.125% notes, due September 15, 2013, at maturity using borrowings under the Credit Agreement; which were repaid during the fourth quarter of 2013 using proceeds from the Infrastructure Transaction.
At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had $98.5 million and $35.0 million, respectively, of Credit Agreement borrowings outstanding. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, all such balances were classified as long-term borrowings in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Classification of such balances is based on the Company's ability and intent to repay such amounts over the subsequent twelve months, as well as reflects the Company's ability and intent to borrow for a period longer than a year. To the extent the Company expects to repay any amounts within the subsequent twelve months, the amounts are classified as short-term borrowings.
During 2015, the Company intends to refinance the 2.7% notes, due October 15, 2015, with new long-term borrowings and to amend or replace the Credit Agreement. At December 31, 2014, the Company's 2.7% notes due October 15, 2015 are classified as long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheet based on the Company's intent to refinance this debt using debt capital markets and ability to refinance this debt using borrowings under the Credit Agreement.
See Note 8, Debt and Credit Agreements, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for more information on the Company's Credit Agreement.
Credit Ratings and Outlook
The following table summarizes the Company's current debt ratings:
Rating Agency
 
Long-term Notes
 
Watch / Outlook
Standard & Poor's (S&P)
 
BB+
 
Negative Outlook
Moody's
 
Ba1
 
Stable Outlook
Fitch
 
BBB-
 
Negative Outlook
Any future downgrades to the Company’s credit ratings may increase borrowing costs to the Company, while an improvement in the Company’s credit ratings may decrease such costs.  However, any future downgrades in the Company’s credit ratings will not reduce availability under the Credit Agreement.













35


Working Capital Position
Changes in the Company's working capital are reflected in the following table:
(Dollars are in millions)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
 
Increase
(Decrease)
Current Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
62.8

 
$
93.6

 
$
(30.8
)
Trade accounts receivable, net
 
325.1

 
353.2

 
(28.1
)
Other receivables, net
 
28.1

 
46.5

 
(18.3
)
Inventories
 
177.3

 
155.7

 
21.6

Assets held-for-sale
 
1.4

 
114.0

 
(112.6
)
Other current assets
 
87.1

 
75.8

 
11.3

Total current assets
 
681.8

 
838.8

 
(156.9
)
Current Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
Short-term borrowings and current maturities
 
41.9

 
27.7

 
14.2

Accounts payable
 
146.5

 
181.4

 
(34.9
)
Accrued compensation
 
53.8

 
53.1

 
0.7

Income taxes payable
 
2.0

 
7.2

 
(5.2
)
Advances on contracts
 
117.4

 
24.1

 
93.3

Liabilities of assets held-for-sale
 

 
109.2

 
(109.2
)
Due to unconsolidated affiliate
 
8.1

 
25.0

 
(16.8
)
Unit adjustment liability
 
22.3

 
22.3

 

Other current liabilities
 
173.5

 
156.8

 
16.7

Total current liabilities
 
565.6

 
606.8

 
(41.2
)
Working Capital
 
$
116.3

 
$
232.0

 
$
(115.7
)
Current Ratio (a)
 
1.2
:1
 
1.4
:1
 
 

(a)
Calculated as Current assets / Current liabilities
Working capital decreased $115.7 million or 49.9% in 2014 due primarily to the following factors:
Working capital was negatively impacted by an increase in Advances on contracts of $93.3 million due to increased customer advances in the Harsco Rail Segment;

Working capital was negatively impacted by a decrease in Cash and cash equivalents of $30.8 million due to usage of existing cash to help fund the Company’s capital expenditures and operations;

Working capital was negatively impacted by a decrease in Trade accounts receivable, net of $28.1 million due to an increased provision for doubtful accounts, the timing of invoicing and collections, primarily in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and foreign currency translation;

Working capital was negatively impacted by a decrease in Other receivables of $18.3 million due to the final working capital settlement related to the Infrastructure Transaction;

Working capital was negatively impacted by an increase in Other current liabilities of $16.7 million primarily due to the timing of payment of other accruals and foreign currency translation; and

Working capital was negatively impacted by an increase in Short-term borrowings and current maturities of $14.2 million due to the increase in borrowings and the repayment requirements of the Company's borrowings.

These working capital decreases were partially offset by the following:

Working capital was positively affected by a decrease in Accounts payable of $34.9 million primarily due to the timing of payments primarily in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and foreign currency translation;

Working capital was positively affected by an increase in Inventories of $21.6 million due primarily to the increased purchases in the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Industrial Segments and long lead times associated with orders in the Harsco Rail Segment, partially offset by foreign currency translation;

Working capital was positively affected by a decrease in Due to unconsolidated affiliate of $16.8 million due to the timing of settlement of balances; and

36



Working capital was positively affected by an increase in Other current assets of $11.3 million due to timing of disbursements related to prepaid expenses.

The net impact of the settlement of Assets held-for-sale and Liabilities of assets held-for-sale related to the Infrastructure Transaction did not have a significant impact on the Company's working capital at December 31, 2014.

Certainty of Cash Flows
The certainty of the Company's future cash flows is underpinned by the long-term nature of the Company's metals services contracts, the order backlog for the Company's railway track maintenance services and equipment, and overall discretionary cash flows (operating cash flows plus cash from asset sales in excess of the amounts necessary for capital expenditures to maintain current revenue levels) generated by the Company. Historically, the Company has utilized these discretionary cash flows for growth-related capital expenditures, strategic acquisitions, debt repayment and dividend payments.
At December 31, 2014, the Company's metals services contracts had estimated future revenues of $4.5 billion at expected production levels, compared with $5.4 billion at December 31, 2013. This decrease is primarily due to exit activities associated with strategic actions from Project Orion's focus on underperforming contracts of various customers and impact of foreign currency translation during 2014. There are no significant metals services contracts for which the costs to complete the contract are currently estimated to exceed the revenue to be realized included in the above estimated future revenues.
At December 31, 2014, the Company's railway track maintenance services and equipment business had estimated future revenues of $348.8 million compared with $229.4 million at December 31, 2013. This increase is primarily due to an additional contract award worth over $100 million through 2017 from the SBB partially offset by shipments during 2014. The railway track maintenance services and equipment business includes items with long lead times necessary to build certain equipment. In addition, at December 31, 2014, the Company had an order backlog of $146.9 million in the Harsco Industrial Segment. This compares with $83.9 million at December 31, 2013. This increase is primarily due to bookings during the second-half of 2014 in the air-cooled heat exchangers business and the acquisition of Hammco in January 2014.
Order backlogs for roofing granules and slag abrasives, and for the reclamation and recycling services of high-value content from steelmaking slag, are excluded from the above amounts. These amounts are generally not quantifiable due to the short order lead times for certain services and the nature and timing of the products and services provided.
The types of products and services that the Company provides are not subject to rapid technological change, which increases the stability of related cash flows. Additionally, the Company believes each business in its portfolio is a leader in the industries and major markets the Company serves. Due to these factors, the Company is confident in the Company's future ability to generate positive cash flows from operations.
Cash Flow Summary
The Company's cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities, as reflected on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, are summarized in the following table:
(In millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Net cash provided (used) by:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating activities
 
$
225.8

 
$
188.3

 
$
198.9

Investing activities
 
(228.7
)
 
62.7

 
(219.3
)
Financing activities
 
(21.8
)
 
(248.7
)
 
(4.5
)
Impact of exchange rate changes on cash
 
(6.1
)
 
(3.9
)
 
(1.0
)
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
 
$
(30.8
)
 
$
(1.6
)
 
$
(25.9
)
Cash provided by operating activities Net cash provided by operating activities in 2014 was $225.8 million, an increase of $37.5 million from 2013. The increase is primarily attributable to increased customer advances and decreased incentive bonus payments, partially offset by the timing of accounts receivable invoicing and collections, the timing of accounts payable disbursements, and an increase of inventories. Net cash provided by operating activities in 2013 was $188.3 million, a decrease of $10.6 million from 2012. The decrease was primarily due to net decreased working capital, partially offset by a reduction in restructuring payments and higher net income (excluding the impact of non-cash impairment charges).



37


Included in the Cash flows from operating activities section of the Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows is the caption, Other, net. In 2014, this caption consisted of principally the impact of non-cash impaired asset write-downs related to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment. In 2013, there were no individually significant components of this caption. In 2012, this caption consisted of principally of the non-cash impact of gains and losses on the sale of assets not included in the 2011/2012 Restructuring Program, as well as $10.9 million of non-cash cumulative currency translation adjustment gains associated with the exit from certain countries in 2012.
Also included in the Cash flows from operating activities section of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows is the caption, Other assets and liabilities. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the decreases in this caption were $46.3 million and $26.4 million respectively. For the year ended December 31, 2012, the increase in this caption was $12.5 million. A summary of the major components of this caption for the periods presented is as follows:
(In millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Net cash provided by (used in):
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Change in net defined benefit pension liabilities
 
$
(27.8
)
 
$
(16.1
)
 
$
(12.7
)
  Change in prepaid expenses
 
(15.8
)
 
(2.7
)
 
30.2

  Other
 
(2.7
)
 
(7.6
)
 
(5.0
)
  Total
 
$
(46.3
)
 
$
(26.4
)
 
$
12.5

Cash provided (used) by investing activities — Net cash used by investing activities in 2014 was $228.7 million, an increase of $291.4 million from 2013. The net increase was primarily due to net proceeds from the Infrastructure Transaction of $303.0 million received in 2013 and the acquisition of Hammco and payment of the unit adjustment liability in 2014. Partially offsetting this increase were a lower level of capital expenditures, primarily related to no longer having capital expenditures for the Infrastructure Segment. Capital investments decreased $38.2 million compared with 2013. In 2013, net cash provided by investing activities was $62.7 million consisting primarily of net proceeds from the Infrastructure Transaction of $303.0 million, partially offset by capital investments of $246.1 million. Capital investments decreased $18.9 million compared with 2012.
Cash used by financing activities — Net cash used in financing activities in 2014 was $21.8 million, a decrease of $226.9 million from 2013.  The change was primarily due to use of cash proceeds from the Infrastructure Transaction to repay outstanding borrowings in 2013 and to increased credit facility borrowings related to the Hammco acquisition and payment of the unit adjustment liability in 2014. In 2013, net cash used in financing activities was $248.7 million, an increase of $244.1 million from 2012. The increase was primarily due to use of cash proceeds from the Infrastructure Transaction to repay outstanding borrowings.
Debt Covenants
The Company's Credit Agreement contains covenants that provide for a maximum total consolidated debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio not to exceed 3.5 to 1.0, limit the proportion of subsidiary consolidated indebtedness to a maximum of 10% of consolidated tangible assets and require a minimum consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest charges ratio of 3.0 to 1.0. The Company’s 5.75% and 2.70% notes include covenants that require the Company to offer to repurchase the notes at 101% of par in the event of a change of control of the Company or disposition of substantially all of the Company’s assets in combination with a downgrade in the Company’s credit rating to non-investment grade.  At December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with these covenants as the total consolidated debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio was 3.1 to 1.0, the proportion of subsidiary consolidated indebtedness to consolidated tangible assets was 5.8% and consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest charges was 6.9 to 1.0. Based on balances at December 31, 2014, the Company could increase borrowings by $128.5 million and still be in compliance with these debt covenants.  Alternatively, keeping all other factors constant, the Company's EBITDA could decrease by $36.7 million and the Company would still be within these debt covenants.

The Company expects to continue to be in compliance with the Company's debt covenants for at least the next twelve months. However, due to the seasonality of the Company’s cash flows, during the first half of 2015 the Company could see a decrease in available liquidity due to the limitations of the current debt covenants.  The Company expects to amend its Credit Agreement in the first quarter of 2015 to provide additional liquidity while remaining in compliance with the Credit Agreement’s terms.

Cash Management
The Company has various cash management systems throughout the world that centralize cash in various bank accounts where it is economically justifiable and legally permissible to do so. These centralized cash balances are then redeployed to other operations to reduce short-term borrowings and to finance working capital needs or capital expenditures. Due to the transitory nature of cash balances, they are normally invested in bank deposits that can be withdrawn at will or in very liquid short-term bank time deposits and government obligations. The Company's policy is to use the largest banks in the various countries in

38


which the Company operates. The Company monitors the creditworthiness of its banks and when appropriate will adjust its banking operations to reduce or eliminate exposure to less credit worthy banks. The Company plans to continue its strategy of targeted, prudent investing for strategic purposes for the foreseeable future and to make more efficient use of existing investments.

At December 31, 2014, the Company's consolidated cash and cash equivalents included $61.2 million held by non-U.S. subsidiaries. At December 31, 2014, less than 10% of the Company's consolidated cash and cash equivalents had regulatory restrictions that would preclude the transfer of funds with and among subsidiaries. The cash and cash equivalents held by non-U.S. subsidiaries also included $18.2 million held in consolidated strategic ventures. The strategic venture agreements may require strategic venture partner approval to transfer funds with and among subsidiaries. While the Company's remaining non-U.S. cash and cash equivalents can be transferred with and among subsidiaries, the majority of these non-U.S. cash balances will be used to support the on-going working capital needs and continued growth of the Company's non-U.S. operations.
The Company currently expects to continue paying dividends to stockholders. In February 2015, the Company paid its 259th consecutive quarterly cash dividend. In February 2015, the Company also declared its 260th consecutive quarterly cash dividend, payable in May 2015.
The Company's financial position and debt capacity should enable it to meet current and future requirements. As additional resources are needed, the Company should be able to obtain funds readily and at competitive costs. The Company intends to continue investing in high-return, organic growth projects and prudent, strategic alliances and ventures; reduce debt; and pay cash dividends as a means of enhancing stockholder value.

Application of Critical Accounting Policies
The Company's discussion and analysis of its financial condition and results of operations are based upon the consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP"). The preparation of these consolidated 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 liabilities. On an ongoing basis, the Company evaluates the estimates, including those related to defined benefit pension benefits, notes and accounts receivable, goodwill, long-lived asset impairment, inventories, insurance reserves, legal and other contingencies, and income taxes. The impact of changes in these estimates, as necessary, is reflected in the respective segment's results of operations in the period of the change. The Company bases estimates on historical experience and various other assumptions that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances, the results of which form the basis for making judgments about the carrying values of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. Actual results may differ from these estimates under different outcomes, assumptions or conditions.
The Company believes the following critical accounting policies are affected by the Company's more significant judgments and estimates used in the preparation of the Company's consolidated financial statements. Management has discussed the development and selection of the critical accounting estimates described below with the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors (the "Board") and they have reviewed the Company's disclosures relating to these estimates in this Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. These items should be read in conjunction with Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."
Defined Benefit Pension Benefits
The Company has defined benefit pension plans in several countries. The largest of these plans are in the United Kingdom and the United States. The Company's funding policy for these plans is to contribute amounts sufficient to meet the minimum funding pursuant to U.K. and U.S. statutory requirements, plus any additional amounts that the Company may determine to be appropriate.
The Company continues to evaluate alternative strategies to further reduce overall net periodic pension cost including the consideration of converting the remaining defined benefit plans to defined contribution plans; the ongoing evaluation of investment fund managers' performance; the balancing of plan assets and liabilities; the risk assessment of multiemployer pension plans; the possible merger of certain plans; the consideration of incremental cash contributions to certain plans; and other changes that could reduce future net periodic pension cost volatility and minimize risk.



39


Changes in the discount rate assumption and the actual performance of plan assets compared with the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets are the primary drivers in the change in funded status of the Company's defined benefit pension plans. These factors are components of actuarial loss (gain) and impact the amount recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss), as such actuarial changes are not reflected directly in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, but amortized over time in accordance with U.S. GAAP. The tables below show the underfunded status of the Company's combined defined benefit pension plans, global weighted average discount rate at year end, the comparison of actual and expected return on plan assets and Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to pension liability adjustments. The change in the underfunded status from December 31, 2013 to December 31, 2014 reflects lower discount rates for both the U.K. and U.S. plans, as well as the adoption of the updated mortality table in RP-2014 published by the Society of Actuaries' Retirement Plans Experience Committee for the U.S. plans. The change in the underfunded status from December 31, 2012 to December 31, 2013 reflects higher discount rates, the impact of transferring certain defined benefit pension plans to the Infrastructure strategic venture as part of the Infrastructure Transaction, performance of overall equity markets resulting in higher actual returns on plan assets and increased employer contributions. The change in underfunded status from December 31, 2011 to December 31, 2012 reflects moderate changes in underfunded status as actual asset returns in excess of expected returns helped counteract the impact of decreases in the discount rate.
(In millions)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
 
December 31
2012
 
December 31
2011
Underfunded status
 
$
350.5

 
$
237.8

 
$
384.1

 
$
343.6

Global weighted average discount rate
 
3.7
%
 
4.7
%
 
4.2
%
 
4.7
%
(In millions)
 
For the Years Ended December 31
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Actual return on plan assets
 
$
96.0

 
$
100.5

 
$
85.6

Expected return on plan assets
 
66.7

 
62.6

 
60.7

Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to pension liability adjustments, pre-tax
 
(127.1
)
 
106.7

 
(61.2
)

The Company made cash contributions to defined benefit pension plans of $35.7 million, $32.9 million and $36.0 million during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Additionally, the Company expects to make a minimum of $33.7 million in cash contributions to defined benefit pension plans during 2015.

Critical Estimate—Defined Benefit Pension Benefits
Accounting for defined benefit pension plans requires the use of actuarial assumptions. The principal assumptions used include the discount rate and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets. Each assumption is reviewed annually and represents management's best estimate at that time. The assumptions are selected to represent the average expected experience over time and may differ in any one year from actual experience due to changes in capital markets and the overall economy. These differences will impact the amount of unfunded benefit obligation and the expense recognized.
The discount rates used in calculating the Company's projected benefit obligations at the December 31, 2014 measurement date for the U.K. and U.S. defined benefit pension plans were 3.6% and 3.9%, respectively, and the global weighted-average discount rate was 3.7%. The discount rates selected represent the average yield on high-quality corporate bonds at the measurement dates. Annual net periodic pension cost is determined using the discount rates at the beginning of the year. The discount rates for 2014 expense were 4.6% for the U.K. plan, 4.7% for the U.S. plans and 4.7% for the global weighted-average of plans. Net periodic pension cost and the projected benefit obligation generally increase as the selected discount rate decreases.
The expected long-term rate of return on plan assets is determined by evaluating the asset return expectations with the Company's advisors as well as actual, long term, historical results of asset returns for the pension plans. Generally the net periodic pension cost increases as the expected long term rate of return on assets decreases. For both 2015 and 2014, the global weighted-average expected long-term rate of return on asset assumption is 7.0%. This rate was determined based on a model of expected asset returns for an actively managed portfolio.
Changes in defined benefit net periodic pension cost may occur in the future due to changes in actuarial assumptions and due to changes in returns on plan assets resulting from financial market conditions. Holding all other assumptions constant, using December 31, 2014 plan data, a one-half percent increase or decrease in the discount rate and the expected long-term rate of return on plan assets would increase or decrease annual 2014 pre-tax defined benefit net periodic pension cost as follows:


40


Approximate Changes in Pre-tax Defined Benefit Net Periodic Pension Cost
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
U.K. Plan
Discount rate
 
 
 
 
One-half percent increase
 
Decrease of less than $0.1 million
 
Decrease of $1.9 million
One-half percent decrease
 
Increase of $0.1 million
 
Increase of $1.9 million
Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets
 
 
 
 
One-half percent increase
 
Decrease of $1.1 million
 
Decrease of $3.7 million
One-half percent decrease
 
Increase of $1.1 million
 
Increase of $3.7 million
Increases or decreases to the net pension obligations may be required should circumstances that affect these estimates change. Additionally, certain events could result in the pension obligation changing at a time other than the annual measurement date. This would occur when a benefit plan is amended or when plan curtailments or settlements occur. See Note 10, Employee Benefit Plans, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosures related to these items.
Notes and Accounts Receivable
Notes and accounts receivable are stated at their net realizable value through the use of an allowance for doubtful accounts. The allowance is maintained for estimated losses resulting from the inability or unwillingness of customers to make required payments. The Company has policies and procedures in place requiring customers to be evaluated for creditworthiness prior to the execution of new service contracts or shipments of products. These reviews are structured to minimize the Company's risk related to realizability of receivables. Despite these policies and procedures, the Company may at times still experience collection problems and potential bad debts due to economic conditions within certain industries (e.g., construction and steel industries), countries or regions in which the Company operates. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, trade accounts receivable of $325.1 million and $353.2 million, respectively, were net of reserves of $15.1 million and $6.6 million, respectively. The increase in Allowance for doubtful accounts since December 31, 2013, relates primarily to two European customers and one North American customer in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.

Critical Estimate—Notes and Accounts Receivable
A considerable amount of judgment is required to assess the realizability of receivables, including the current creditworthiness of each customer, related aging of past due balances and the facts and circumstances surrounding any non-payment. The Company's provisions for bad debts during 2014, 2013 and 2012 were $9.9 million, $10.2 million and $11.3 million, respectively.
On a monthly basis, customer accounts are analyzed for collectability. Reserves are established based upon a specific-identification method as well as historical collection experience, as appropriate. The Company also evaluates specific accounts when it becomes aware of a situation in which a customer may not be able to meet its financial obligations due to a deterioration in its financial condition, credit ratings, bankruptcy or receivership. The reserve requirements are based on the facts available to the Company and are re-evaluated and adjusted as additional information is received. Reserves are also determined by using percentages (based upon experience) applied to certain aged receivable categories. Specific issues are discussed with corporate management, and any significant changes in reserve amounts or the write-off of balances must be approved by a specifically designated corporate officer. All approved items are monitored to ensure they are recorded in the proper period. Additionally, any significant changes in reserve balances are reviewed to ensure the proper corporate approval has occurred.
If the financial condition of the Company's customers were to deteriorate, resulting in their inability to make payments, additional allowances may be required. Conversely, an improvement in a customer's ability to make payments could result in a decrease of the allowance for doubtful accounts. Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts related to both of these situations would be recorded through Operating income (loss) from continuing operations in the period the change was determined. As previously disclosed during the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $2.6 million on receivables with a large steel mill customer who filed for protection under the Marzano Law. During the second quarter of 2014, the customer terminated its contract with the Company under the provisions of the Marzano Law. As a result, during the second quarter of 2014, the Company recorded an additional bad debt reserve of $3.9 million on the remaining pre-receivership receivables with this customer. During the second quarter of 2014, one of the Company’s steel mill customers in Europe missed normal progress payments.  The Company has approximately $8 million of receivables, excluding value added tax, with this customer.  During the second quarter of 2014, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $3.6 million related to this receivable.  The Company believes the remaining amounts are collectible; however, if there is an adverse change in the Company's view on collectability, there could be a charge against income in future periods. Additionally, the Company recorded a bad debt reserve of $2.6 million during 2014 for one of its Canadian steel mill customers that filed for receivership

41


protection during the course of the year as the Company has previously disclosed.  The amount of the bad debt reserve for this customer represents the full pre-receivership balance.
The Company has not materially changed the methodology for calculating allowances for doubtful accounts for the years presented. See Note 4, Accounts Receivable and Inventories, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosures related to these items.
Goodwill
The Company's goodwill balances were $416.2 million and $431.3 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company performs the annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1. The Company has five reporting units (only three of which have goodwill associated with them as of December 31, 2014). The Company's reporting units are the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, the Harsco Rail Segment and the air-cooled heat exchanger business of the Harsco Industrial Segment. Almost all of the Company's goodwill is allocated to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.

Critical Estimate—Goodwill
In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized and is tested for impairment at least annually or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist or if a decision is made to dispose of a business. Goodwill is allocated among and evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below an operating segment for which discrete financial information is available. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include declining cash flows or operating losses at the reporting unit level, a significant adverse change in legal factors or in the business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, a loss of key personnel, or a more likely than not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or otherwise disposed of, among others.

The evaluation of potential goodwill impairment involves comparing the current fair value of each reporting unit to the net book value, including goodwill. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model (“DCF model”) to estimate the current fair value of reporting units, as management believes forecasted operating cash flows are the best indicator of current fair value. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the preparation of DCF models including future revenues and operating margin growth, the weighted-average cost of capital (“WACC”), tax rates, capital spending, pension funding, the impact of business initiatives, and working capital projections. These assumptions and estimates may vary significantly between reporting units. DCF models are based on approved long-range plans for the early years and historical relationships and projections for later years. WACC rates are derived from internal and external factors including, but not limited to, the average market price of the Company's stock, shares outstanding, book value of the Company's debt, the long-term risk free interest rate, and both market and size-specific risk premiums. Due to the many variables noted above and the relative size of the Company's goodwill, differences in assumptions may have a material impact on the results of the Company's annual goodwill impairment testing. If the net book value of a reporting unit were to exceed the current fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test would be required to determine if an impairment existed and the amount of goodwill impairment to record, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the net book value of a reporting unit's goodwill with the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill represents the excess of fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value amounts assigned to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit if it were to be acquired in a hypothetical business combination and the current fair value of the reporting unit represented the purchase price. The second step of the goodwill impairment test requires the utilization of valuation experts.

The performance of the Company’s 2014 annual impairment tests did not result in any impairment of the Company’s goodwill.
For the Company's 2014 annual goodwill impairment test, the average annual revenue growth rates over the duration of the DCF models ranged from 1.9% to 3.0%. The average annual cash flow growth rates over the duration of the DCF models ranged from 3.0% to 9.1%. The WACCs used in the 2014 annual goodwill impairment test ranged from 9.50% to 10.75%.

The Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment reporting unit's fair value at October 1, 2014 was approximately 10% more than the net book value. The related DCF model for this reporting unit included several key assumptions related to Project Orion and the expected benefits to be realized by this business initiative. Significant assumptions utilized in the DCF model include a WACC of 10.75% and average annual cash flow growth rate of 3.9%. Had the average annual cash flow growth rate been lowered by approximately 100 basis points, this reporting unit's book value would have exceeded fair value and the Company would have been required to proceed to the second step of the annual goodwill impairment test. Additionally, should the expected benefits associated with Project Orion not materialize as anticipated or the Company's analysis in the future indicates an increase in discount rates or a degradation in the overall markets served by the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, it may result in an impairment of the Harsco Metal & Minerals Segment goodwill.


42


The first step of the 2012 annual goodwill impairment test indicated that the net book value of the Harsco Infrastructure reporting unit exceeded its current fair value, requiring the Company to perform the second step of the goodwill impairment test to measure the amount of impairment loss, if any. In performing the second step of the goodwill impairment test, the Company compared the implied fair value of goodwill for the Harsco Infrastructure reporting unit to its carrying value. This analysis resulted in a non-cash, goodwill impairment charge of $265.0 million, which was recognized during the fourth quarter of 2012. This charge had no impact on the Company's cash flows or compliance with debt covenants. The facts and circumstances leading to the goodwill impairment of the Harsco Infrastructure reporting unit primarily relate to a prolonged downturn in the European markets versus what was expected earlier in 2012 and its impact on the timing for near-term cash flows. The performance of the Company's 2012 annual goodwill impairment test did not result in any impairment for the Company's remaining reporting units.

It is important to note that fair values that could be realized in an actual transaction could differ materially from those used to evaluate the annual goodwill impairment test. The Company has not materially changed its methodology for goodwill impairment testing for the years presented. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies and Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, “Financial Statements and Supplementary Data,” for additional disclosure related to these items.

Long-lived Asset Impairment
Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate that the book value of an asset may be impaired. During 2013, the Company recorded a $271.3 million loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment related to the Infrastructure Transaction. Additionally, the amounts charged against pre-tax income from continuing operations related to impaired long-lived assets included in the caption, Other expenses, on the Consolidated Statements of Operations were $39.5 million, $9.7 million and $7.2 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012 respectively. The increase in long-lived asset impairments in 2014 was incurred principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment as part of Project Orion.

Critical Estimate—Asset Impairment
The determination of a long-lived asset impairment involves significant judgments based upon short-term and long-term projections of future asset performance. If the undiscounted cash flows associated with an asset do not exceed the asset's book value, impairment loss estimates would be based upon the difference between the book value and fair value of the asset. The fair value is generally based upon the Company's estimate of the amount that the assets could be bought or sold for in a transaction between willing parties. If quoted market prices for the asset or similar assets are unavailable, the fair value estimate is generally calculated using a DCF model. Should circumstances change that affect these estimates, additional impairment charges may be required and would be recorded through income in the period the change was determined.

As a result of the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company recorded an estimated non-cash long-lived asset impairment charge of $241.3 million during the third quarter of 2013. The Company recorded an additional loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment of $30.0 million during the fourth quarter of 2013 related to the Infrastructure Transaction. The increased loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment from September 30, 2013 was due principally to the final valuation of the equity interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture and changes in working capital and other adjustments.  
The Company has not materially changed the methodology for calculating long-lived asset impairments for the years presented. U.S. GAAP requires consideration of all valuation techniques for which market participant inputs can be obtained without undue cost and effort. The use of a DCF model continues to be an appropriate method for determining fair value, however, methodologies such as quoted market prices must also be evaluated. See Note 17, Other Expenses, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosure related to these items.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventory balances are adjusted for estimated obsolete or unmarketable inventory equal to the difference between the cost of inventory and its estimated market value. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, inventories of $177.3 million and $155.7 million, respectively, are net of lower of cost or market reserves and obsolescence reserves of $10.0 million and $9.7 million, respectively.

Critical Estimate—Inventories
In assessing the ultimate realization of inventory balances, the Company is required to make judgments as to future demand and compare these with the current or committed inventory levels. If actual market conditions are determined to be less favorable than those projected by management, additional inventory write-downs may be required and would be recorded through Operating income (loss) from continuing operations in the period the determination is made. Additionally, the Company records reserves to adjust a substantial portion of its U.S. inventory balances to the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method

43


of inventory valuation. In adjusting these reserves throughout the year, the Company estimates its year-end inventory costs and quantities. At December 31 of each year, the reserves are adjusted to reflect actual year-end inventory costs and quantities. During periods of inflation, the LIFO expense usually increases and during periods of deflation it decreases. These year-end adjustments resulted in pre-tax expense of $1.8 million in 2014, pre-tax income of $1.7 million in 2013 and pre-tax expense of $0.5 million in 2012.
The Company has not materially changed the methodology for calculating inventory reserves for the years presented. See Note 4, Accounts Receivable and Inventories, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosures related to these items.
Insurance Reserves
The Company retains a significant portion of the risk for U.S. workers' compensation, U.K. employers' liability, automobile, general and product liability losses. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company recorded liabilities of $47.9 million and $52.4 million, respectively, related to both asserted and unasserted insurance claims. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, $3.8 million and $4.0 million, respectively, was included in insurance liabilities related to claims covered by insurance carriers for which a corresponding receivable has been recorded.

Critical Estimate—Insurance Reserves
Insurance reserves have been recorded based upon actuarial calculations that reflect the undiscounted estimated liabilities for ultimate losses including claims incurred but not reported. Inherent in these estimates are assumptions that are based on the Company's history of claims and losses, a detailed analysis of existing claims with respect to potential value, and current legal and legislative trends. If actual claims differ from those projected by management, changes (either increases or decreases) to insurance reserves may be required and would be recorded through Operating income (loss) from continuing operations in the period the change was determined. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded a retrospective insurance reserve adjustment that decreased pre-tax insurance expense from continuing operations for self-insured programs by $7.0 million, $7.2 million and $4.3 million, respectively. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional information related these out-of-period adjustments. The Company has programs in place to improve claims experience, such as disciplined claim and insurance litigation management and a focused approach to workplace safety.
The Company has not materially changed the methodology for calculating insurance reserves for the years presented. There are currently no known trends, demands, commitments, events or uncertainties that are reasonably likely to occur that would materially affect the methodology or assumptions described above.
Legal and Other Contingencies
Reserves for contingent liabilities are recorded when it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the loss can be reasonably estimated. Adjustments to estimated amounts are recorded as necessary based on new information or the occurrence of new events or the resolution of an uncertainty. Such adjustments are recorded in the period that the required change is identified.

Critical Estimate—Legal and Other Contingencies
On a quarterly basis, recorded contingent liabilities are analyzed to determine if any adjustments are required. Additionally, functional department heads within each business unit are consulted monthly to ensure all issues with a potential financial impact, including possible reserves for contingent liabilities, have been properly identified, addressed or disposed of. Specific issues are discussed with corporate management and any significant changes in reserve amounts or the adjustment or write-off of previously recorded balances must be approved by a specifically designated corporate officer. If necessary, outside legal counsel, other third parties or internal experts are consulted to assess the likelihood and range of outcomes for a particular issue. Approved changes in reserve amounts are monitored to ensure they are recorded in the proper period. Additionally, any significant changes in reported business-unit reserve balances are reviewed to ensure the proper corporate approval has occurred. On a quarterly basis, the Company's business-units submit a reserve listing to the corporate headquarters which is reviewed with corporate management and the Board during scheduled meetings. All significant reserve balances are discussed with a designated corporate officer to assess their validity, accuracy and completeness. Anticipated changes in reserves are identified for further consideration prior to the end of a reporting period. Any new issues that may require a reserve are also identified and discussed to ensure proper disposition.
The Company has not materially changed the methodology for calculating legal and other contingencies for the years presented. There are currently no known trends, demands, commitments, events or uncertainties that are reasonably likely to occur that would materially affect the methodology or assumptions described above. See Note 12, Commitments and Contingencies, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosure on contingencies.

44


Income Taxes
The Company's income tax expense, deferred tax assets and liabilities and reserves for uncertain tax positions reflect management's best estimate of taxes to be paid. The Company is subject to various international, federal, state and local income taxes in the taxing jurisdictions where the Company operates. In determining consolidated income tax expense, the Company makes its best estimate of the annual effective income tax rate at the end of each quarterly period and applies that rate to year-to-date income (loss) before income taxes to arrive at the year-to-date income tax provision (exclusive of loss jurisdictions for which no tax benefit is realizable with any discrete tax items recorded separately). At December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company's annual effective income tax rate on income from continuing operations was 326.5%, (19.0)% and (16.1)%, respectively.

Critical Estimate—Income Taxes
The annual effective income tax rates are estimated by giving recognition to currently enacted tax rates, tax holidays, tax credits, capital losses, and tax deductions, as well as certain exempt income and non-deductible expenses for all of the jurisdictions where the Company operates. The income tax provision for a quarterly period incorporates any change in the year-to-date provision from the previous quarterly periods. The Company has not materially changed the methodology for calculating income tax expense for the years presented or for quarterly periods.
The Company records deferred tax assets to the extent the Company believes these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determinations, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, feasible and prudent tax planning strategies and recent financial operating results. In the event the Company was to determine that it would be able to realize deferred tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be made that would reduce the provision for income taxes.
The valuation allowances of $131.3 million and $127.2 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related principally to deferred tax assets for U.K. pension liabilities, net operating loss carryforwards, capital losses, currency translation and foreign investment tax credits that are uncertain as to realizability. In 2014, the Company recorded a net increase in the valuation allowance of $8.0 million related to current year pension adjustments recorded through Accumulated other comprehensive loss and a net increase of $6.5 million related to losses in certain jurisdictions where the Company determined that it is more likely than not that these assets will not be realized. This was offset by a $9.3 million reduction in valuation allowance from the effects of currency translation and a reduction of $1.1 million related to usage of a capital loss carryforward. In 2013, the Company recorded a net increase in the valuation allowance of $9.4 million related to the Infrastructure Transaction and $7.1 million related to losses in certain jurisdictions where the Company determined that it is more likely than not that these assets will not be realized. This was offset by a $15.8 million reduction in tax expense related to U.K. pension adjustments recorded during the year through Accumulated other comprehensive loss and the effects of currency translation. Excluding the valuation allowance activity related to the Infrastructure Transaction, the additional increase in valuation allowances resulted primarily from losses generated in certain jurisdictions that the Company determined it is more likely than not that these assets will not be realized.
A tax benefit from an uncertain tax position may be recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on its technical merits. The unrecognized tax benefits at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $12.3 million and $17.4 million, respectively, including accrued interest and penalties. The unrecognized tax benefit may decrease as a result of the lapse of statute of limitations or as a result of final settlement and resolution of outstanding tax matters in various state and international jurisdictions.
The Company has not provided U.S. income taxes on certain non-U.S. subsidiaries' undistributed earnings as such amounts are permanently reinvested outside the United States. The Company evaluates future financial projections for its most significant subsidiaries, the need to reinvest earnings locally and the overall cash requirements of the Company. Based upon this evaluation, the Company determined that certain undistributed earnings from non-U.S. subsidiaries are indefinitely reinvested. The Company believes that it can generate sufficient cash flows to avoid the one-time tax costs associated with repatriation of undistributed earnings to the U.S. from prior periods. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, such earnings were approximately $705 million and $815 million, respectively. If these earnings were repatriated at December 31, 2014, the one-time tax cost associated with the repatriation would be approximately $124 million.
See Note 11, Income Taxes, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data," for additional disclosures related to these items.




45


Research and Development

Internal funding for research and development was as follows:
 
 
Research and Development Expenses
(In millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
 
$
2.2

 
$
1.9

 
$
1.7

Harsco Infrastructure Segment
 

 
2.9

 
3.1

Harsco Rail Segment
 
2.5

 
3.4

 
3.3

Harsco Industrial Segment
 
1.6

 
1.3

 
0.9

Consolidated Totals
 
$
6.3

 
$
9.6

 
$
9.1

The amounts shown exclude technology development and engineering costs classified in cost of services sold; cost of products sold; or selling, general and administrative expenses.

Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards

Information on recently adopted and recently issued accounting standards is included in Note 2, Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards, to the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."


Dividend Action

The Company has paid dividends each year since 1939. The Company paid four quarterly cash dividends of $0.205 per share in 2014, for an annual rate of $0.82 per share. The Board normally reviews the dividend rate periodically during the year and annually at its fourth quarter meeting. There are no significant restrictions on the payment of dividends.
The February 17, 2015 dividend payment of $0.205 per share marked the 259th consecutive quarterly dividend. The Company is philosophically committed to maintaining or increasing the dividend at a sustainable level.
On February 20, 2015, the Company's Board declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.205 per share, payable May 15, 2015 to stockholders of record at the close of business on April 15, 2015.

Item 7A.    Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk.
See Part I, Item 1A, "Risk Factors," for quantitative and qualitative disclosures about market risk.

46


Item 8.    Financial Statements and Supplementary Data.
Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data


47


Management's Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
Management of Harsco Corporation, together with its consolidated subsidiaries (the "Company"), is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting, as defined in Securities Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(f) or 15d-15(e). The Company's internal control over financial reporting is a process designed under the supervision of the Company's principal executive and principal financial officers to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of the Company's consolidated financial statements for external reporting purposes in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The Company's internal control over financial reporting includes policies and procedures that:
Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect transactions and dispositions of assets of the Company;

Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of consolidated financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and the directors of the Company; and

Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use or disposition of the Company's assets that could have a material effect on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies and procedures may deteriorate.
Management has assessed the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting at December 31, 2014 based on the framework established in Internal Control—Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). Based on this assessment, management has determined that the Company's internal control over financial reporting was effective at December 31, 2014.
The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting at December 31, 2014 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report appearing in this Annual Report on Form 10-K, which expresses an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting at December 31, 2014.
/s/ F. NICHOLAS GRASBERGER, III
 
/s/ PETER F. MINAN
F. Nicholas Grasberger, III
President and Chief Executive Officer
 
Peter F. Minan
Chief Financial Officer
March 2, 2015
 
March 2, 2015

48


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

To The Stockholders of the Corporation:

In our opinion, the accompanying consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Harsco Corporation at December 31, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2014 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. In addition, in our opinion, the financial statement schedule listed in the accompanying index appearing under Item 15(a)(2) presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein when read in conjunction with the related consolidated financial statements. Also in our opinion, the Company maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2014, based on criteria established in Internal Control - Integrated Framework 2013 issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company's management is responsible for these financial statements, for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in Management's Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express opinions on these financial statements and on the Company's internal control over financial reporting based on our integrated audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audits to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement and whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audits of the financial statements included examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. Our audit of internal control over financial reporting included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audits also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (i) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (ii) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (iii) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of its inherent limitations, internal control over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements. Also, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness to future periods are subject to the risk that controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
 
 
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
 
 
March 2, 2015
 
 


49



HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(In thousands, except share amounts)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
ASSETS
 
 
 
 
Current assets:
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
62,843

 
$
93,605

Trade accounts receivable, net
 
325,104

 
353,181

Other receivables
 
28,145

 
46,470

Inventories
 
177,265

 
155,689

Assets held-for-sale
 
1,355

 
113,968

Other current assets
 
87,110

 
75,842

Total current assets
 
681,822

 
838,755

Investments
 
288,505

 
298,856

Property, plant and equipment, net
 
663,244

 
711,346

Goodwill
 
416,155

 
431,265

Intangible assets, net
 
58,524

 
53,261

Other assets
 
155,551

 
108,265

Total assets
 
$
2,263,801

 
$
2,441,748

LIABILITIES
 
 
 
 
Current liabilities:
 
 
 
 
Short-term borrowings
 
$
16,748

 
$
7,489

Current maturities of long-term debt
 
25,188

 
20,257

Accounts payable
 
146,506

 
181,410

Accrued compensation
 
53,780

 
53,113

Income taxes payable
 
1,985

 
7,199

Dividends payable
 
16,535

 
16,536

Insurance liabilities
 
12,415

 
10,523

Advances on contracts
 
117,398

 
24,053

Liabilities of assets held-for-sale
 

 
109,176

Due to unconsolidated affiliate
 
8,142

 
24,954

Unit adjustment liability
 
22,320

 
22,320

Other current liabilities
 
144,543

 
129,739

Total current liabilities
 
565,560

 
606,769

Long-term debt
 
829,709

 
783,158

Deferred income taxes
 
6,379

 
8,217

Insurance liabilities
 
35,470

 
41,879

Retirement plan liabilities
 
350,889

 
241,049

Due to unconsolidated affiliate
 
20,169

 
27,292

Unit adjustment liability
 
71,442

 
84,023

Other liabilities
 
25,849

 
42,526

Total liabilities
 
1,905,467

 
1,834,913

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
 

 

HARSCO CORPORATION STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 
 
 
 
Preferred stock, Series A junior participating cumulative preferred stock
 

 

Common stock, par value $1.25 (issued 112,357,348 and 112,198,693 shares at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively)
 
140,444

 
140,248

Additional paid-in capital
 
165,666

 
159,025

Accumulated other comprehensive loss
 
(532,491
)
 
(370,615
)
Retained earnings
 
1,290,208

 
1,381,321

Treasury stock, at cost (31,697,498 and 31,519,768 shares at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively)
 
(749,815
)
 
(746,237
)
Total Harsco Corporation stockholders' equity
 
314,012

 
563,742

Noncontrolling interests
 
44,322

 
43,093

Total equity
 
358,334

 
606,835

Total liabilities and equity
 
$
2,263,801

 
$
2,441,748


See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

50


HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
 
 
Years ended December 31
 
(In thousands, except per share amounts)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
Revenues from continuing operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service revenues
 
$
1,365,696

 
$
2,229,966

 
$
2,340,996

 
Product revenues
 
700,042

 
666,554

 
705,022

 
Total revenues
 
2,065,738

 
2,896,520

 
3,046,018

 
Costs and expenses from continuing operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of services sold
 
1,151,842

 
1,766,730

 
1,861,732

 
Cost of products sold
 
494,944

 
467,485

 
487,784

 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
285,252

 
481,052

 
503,339

 
Research and development expenses
 
6,348

 
9,570

 
9,139

 
Goodwill impairment charge
 

 

 
265,038

 
Loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs
 
6,057

 
291,372

 

 
Other expenses
 
57,824

 
15,110

 
93,776

 
Total costs and expenses
 
2,002,267

 
3,031,319

 
3,220,808

 
Operating income (loss) from continuing operations
 
63,471

 
(134,799
)
 
(174,790
)
 
Interest income
 
1,702

 
2,087

 
3,676

 
Interest expense
 
(47,111
)
 
(49,654
)
 
(47,381
)
 
Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability
 
(9,740
)
 
(966
)
 

 
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss)
 
8,322

 
(183,332
)
 
(218,495
)
 
Income tax expense
 
(27,171
)
 
(34,912
)
 
(35,251
)
 
Equity in income (loss) of unconsolidated entities, net
 
(1,558
)
 
1,548

 
564

 
Loss from continuing operations
 
(20,407
)
 
(216,696
)
 
(253,182
)
 
Discontinued operations:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) on disposal of discontinued business
 
176

 
(2,398
)
 
(1,843
)
 
Income tax (expense) benefit related to discontinued business
 
(66
)
 
906

 
924

 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations
 
110

 
(1,492
)
 
(919
)
 
Net loss
 
(20,297
)
 
(218,188
)
 
(254,101
)
 
Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
(4,495
)
 
(9,753
)
 
(511
)
 
Net loss attributable to Harsco Corporation
 
$
(24,792
)
 
$
(227,941
)
 
$
(254,612
)
 
Amounts attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Loss from continuing operations, net of tax
 
$
(24,902
)
 
$
(226,449
)
 
$
(253,693
)
 
Income (loss) from discontinued operations, net of tax
 
110

 
(1,492
)
 
(919
)
 
Net loss attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
(24,792
)
 
$
(227,941
)
 
$
(254,612
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average shares of common stock outstanding
 
80,884

 
80,755

 
80,632

 
Basic loss per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Continuing operations
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.80
)
 
$
(3.15
)
 
Discontinued operations
 

 
(0.02
)
 
(0.01
)
 
Basic loss per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.82
)
 
$
(3.16
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted weighted average shares of common stock outstanding
 
80,884

 
80,755

 
80,632

 
Diluted loss per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Continuing operations
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.80
)
 
$
(3.15
)
 
Discontinued operations
 

 
(0.02
)
 
(0.01
)
 
Diluted loss per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.82
)
 
$
(3.16
)
 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

51


HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

 
 
Years ended December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Net loss
 
$
(20,297
)
 
$
(218,188
)
 
$
(254,101
)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments, net of deferred income taxes of $7,151, $(5,924) and $(5,436) in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively
 
(47,930
)
 
(55,827
)
 
11,434

Net gains (losses) on cash flow hedging instruments, net of deferred income taxes of $(338), $(1,410) and $567 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively
 
(1,957
)
 
1,047

 
(4,333
)
Pension liability adjustments, net of deferred income taxes of $13,454, $(11,095) and $7,572 in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively
 
(113,596
)
 
95,604

 
(53,645
)
Unrealized gain on marketable securities, net of deferred income taxes of $(3), $(18) and $(3) in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively
 
5

 
31

 
6

Total other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(163,478
)
 
40,855

 
(46,538
)
Total comprehensive loss
 
(183,775
)
 
(177,333
)
 
(300,639
)
Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
(2,893
)
 
(10,055
)
 
(950
)
Comprehensive loss attributable to Harsco Corporation
 
$
(186,668
)
 
$
(187,388
)
 
$
(301,589
)
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

52


HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
 
 
Years ended December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Cash flows from operating activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss
 
$
(20,297
)
 
$
(218,188
)
 
$
(254,101
)
Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation
 
164,588

 
221,266

 
251,905

Amortization
 
11,738

 
15,775

 
20,212

Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability
 
9,740

 
966

 

Deferred income tax expense (benefit)
 
7,551

 
(18,427
)
 
(10,708
)
Equity in (income) loss of unconsolidated entities, net
 
1,558

 
(1,548
)
 
(564
)
Dividends from unconsolidated entities
 

 
37

 
308

Harsco 2011/2012 Restructuring Program non-cash adjustment
 

 

 
31,443

Goodwill impairment charge
 

 

 
265,038

Loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment
 
3,865

 
271,296

 

Other, net
 
39,376

 
2,735

 
(27,098
)
Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions and dispositions of businesses:
Accounts receivable
 
7,026

 
(34,504
)
 
22,016

Inventories
 
(19,991
)
 
18,510

 
2,365

Accounts payable
 
(28,901
)
 
14,319

 
(37,649
)
Accrued interest payable
 
70

 
(1,836
)
 
(319
)
Accrued compensation
 
5,699

 
(9,860
)
 
517

Advances on contracts
 
92,769

 
(21,365
)
 
(63,923
)
Harsco Infrastructure Segment 2010 Restructuring Program accrual
 

 
(6,788
)
 
(5,211
)
Harsco 2011/2012 Restructuring Program accrual
 
(2,672
)
 
(17,705
)
 
(7,883
)
Other assets and liabilities
 
(46,273
)
 
(26,428
)
 
12,531

Net cash provided by operating activities
 
225,846

 
188,255

 
198,879

Cash flows from investing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 
(207,978
)
 
(246,147
)
 
(265,023
)
Proceeds from the Infrastructure Transaction
 
15,699

 
303,039

 

Proceeds from sales of assets
 
14,976

 
18,984

 
49,779

Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired*
 
(26,336
)
 
(2,849
)
 
(740
)
Payment of unit adjustment liability
 
(22,320
)
 
(2,123
)
 

Other investing activities, net
 
(2,721
)
 
(8,219
)
 
(3,284
)
Net cash provided (used) by investing activities
 
(228,680
)
 
62,685

 
(219,268
)
Cash flows from financing activities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Short-term borrowings, net
 
8,851

 
(1,901
)
 
(43,464
)
Current maturities and long-term debt:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Additions
 
177,499

 
316,804

 
285,850

Reductions
 
(131,007
)
 
(498,600
)
 
(184,372
)
Cash dividends paid on common stock
 
(66,322
)
 
(66,211
)
 
(66,068
)
Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests
 
(2,186
)
 
(3,381
)
 
(2,605
)
Purchase of noncontrolling interests
 

 
(166
)
 

Contributions from noncontrolling interests
 

 
4,825

 
8,097

Common stock issued—options
 

 
371

 
725

Common stock acquired for treasury
 
(941
)
 

 

Deferred pension underfunding payment to unconsolidated affiliate
 
(7,688
)
 

 

Other financing activities, net
 

 
(405
)
 
(2,709
)
Net cash used by financing activities
 
(21,794
)
 
(248,664
)
 
(4,546
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
(6,134
)
 
(3,921
)
 
(999
)
Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
 
(30,762
)
 
(1,645
)
 
(25,934
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
 
93,605

 
95,250

 
121,184

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
62,843

 
$
93,605

 
$
95,250


53


HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)

 
 
Years ended December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
*Purchase of businesses, net of cash acquired
 
 
 
 
 
 
Working capital
 
$
(1,107
)
 
$

 
$

Property, plant and equipment
 
(330
)
 
(2,437
)
 

Goodwill
 
(6,839
)
 

 

Intangible Assets
 
(17,575
)
 

 

Other noncurrent assets and liabilities, net
 
(485
)
 
(412
)
 
(740
)
Net cash used to acquire businesses
 
$
(26,336
)
 
$
(2,849
)
 
$
(740
)

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

54


HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
Common Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
 
 
Issued
 
Treasury
 
Total
Balances, January 1, 2012
 
$
139,914

 
$
(744,644
)
 
$
149,066

 
$
1,996,234

 
$
(364,191
)
 
$
43,539

 
$
1,219,918

Net income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(254,612
)
 
 
 
511

 
(254,101
)
Cash dividends declared:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common @ $0.82 per share
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(66,132
)
 
 
 
 
 
(66,132
)
Noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2,605
)
 
(2,605
)
Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of deferred income taxes of $2,700
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(46,977
)
 
439

 
(46,538
)
Contributions from noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
8,602

 
8,602

Sale of investment in consolidated subsidiary
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(704
)
 
(704
)
Stock options exercised, 38,900 shares
 
49

 
 
 
661

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
710

Vesting of restricted stock units and other stock grants, net 68,558 shares
 
117

 
(561
)
 
959

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
515

Amortization of unearned stock-based, compensation, net of forfeitures
 
 
 
 
 
1,959

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
1,959

Balances, December 31, 2012
 
$
140,080

 
$
(745,205
)
 
$
152,645

 
$
1,675,490

 
$
(411,168
)
 
$
49,782

 
$
861,624

HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Continued)
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
Common Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss) (a)
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
 
 
Issued
 
Treasury
 
Total
Balances, January 1, 2013
 
$
140,080

 
$
(745,205
)
 
$
152,645

 
$
1,675,490

 
$
(411,168
)
 
$
49,782

 
$
861,624

Net income (loss)
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(227,941
)
 
 

 
9,753

 
(218,188
)
Cash dividends declared:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common @ $0.82 per share
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(66,228
)
 
 

 
 

 
(66,228
)
   Noncontrolling interests
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(4,764
)
 
(4,764
)
Total other comprehensive income, net of deferred income taxes of $(18,447)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
40,553

 
302

 
40,855

Contributions from noncontrolling interests
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
4,825

 
4,825

Purchase of subsidiary shares from noncontrolling interest
 
 
 
 
 
(292
)
 
 
 
 
 
107

 
(185
)
Noncontrolling interests transferred in the Infrastructure Transaction (see Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions)
 
 
 
 
 
1,003

 
 
 
 
 
(16,912
)
 
(15,909
)
Stock options exercised, net 20,000 shares
 
25

 
 
 
375

 
 

 
 
 
 

 
400

Vesting of restricted stock units and other stock grants, net 74,297 shares
 
143

 
(1,032
)
 
2,074

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
1,185

Amortization of unearned stock-based compensation, net of forfeitures
 
 

 
 

 
3,220

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
3,220

Balances, December 31, 2013
 
$
140,248

 
$
(746,237
)
 
$
159,025

 
$
1,381,321

 
$
(370,615
)
 
$
43,093

 
$
606,835

(a) Includes changes due to the Infrastructure Transaction. See Note 18, Components of Other Comprehensive Loss.



55


HARSCO CORPORATION
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY (Continued)
(In thousands, except share and per share amounts)
 
Common Stock
 
Additional
Paid-in Capital
 
Retained
Earnings
 
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive
Income
(Loss)
 
Noncontrolling
Interests
 
 
 
Issued
 
Treasury
 
Total
Balances, January 1, 2014
 
$
140,248

 
$
(746,237
)
 
$
159,025

 
$
1,381,321

 
$
(370,615
)
 
$
43,093

 
$
606,835

Net income (loss)
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(24,792
)
 
 

 
4,495

 
(20,297
)
Cash dividends declared:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common @ $0.82 per share
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
(66,321
)
 
 

 
 

 
(66,321
)
Noncontrolling interests
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2,319
)
 
(2,319
)
Total other comprehensive loss, net of deferred income taxes of $20,264
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(161,876
)
 
(1,602
)
 
(163,478
)
Contributions from noncontrolling interests
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
1,560

 
1,560

Noncontrolling interests transferred in the Infrastructure Transaction (see Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions)
 
 
 
 
 


 
 
 
 
 
(905
)
 
(905
)
Vesting of restricted stock units and other stock grants, net 130,925 shares
 
196

 
(714
)
 
2,069

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
1,551

Treasury shares repurchased, 150,000 shares
 
 
 
(2,864
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(2,864
)
Amortization of unearned stock-based compensation, net of forfeitures
 
 

 
 

 
4,572

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
4,572

Balances, December 31, 2014
 
$
140,444

 
$
(749,815
)
 
$
165,666

 
$
1,290,208

 
$
(532,491
)
 
$
44,322

 
$
358,334



See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

56


HARSCO CORPORATION
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include all accounts of Harsco Corporation (the "Company"), all entities in which the Company has a controlling voting interest, and variable interest entities required to be consolidated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP"). Intercompany accounts and transactions have been eliminated among consolidated entities.

The Company's management has evaluated all activity of the Company and concluded that subsequent events are properly reflected in the Company's consolidated financial statements and notes as required by U.S. GAAP.

Reclassifications and Out of Period Adjustments
Certain reclassifications have been made to prior year amounts to conform with current year classifications.

During 2014, the Company recorded out-of-period adjustments that had the net effect of decreasing after-tax income by $3.5 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, for the year ended December 31, 2014. The adjustments are primarily the result of the increases in reserves related to Brazilian labor claims not recorded in the correct period, correcting expenses that should not have been capitalized in accordance with the Company's policies and revenue that should not have been recognized in accordance with a customer contract. The Company assessed the individual and aggregate impact of these adjustments on the current year and all prior periods and determined that the cumulative effect of the adjustments was not material to the full-year 2014 results, and did not result in a material misstatement to any previously issued annual or quarterly financial statements. Consequently, the Company recorded the $3.5 million net adjustment during 2014 and has not revised any previously issued annual financial statements or interim financial data.
During the second quarter of 2013, the Company recorded non-cash out-of-period adjustments that had the net effect of increasing after-tax income by $3.0 million, or $0.04 per diluted share, for the second quarter of 2013, and by $2.6 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, for the first half of 2013. The adjustments are primarily the result of correcting claims-paid information for certain international accrued insurance reserves which were identified during the regular, periodic evaluation of these reserves during the quarter. The Company assessed the individual and aggregate impact of these adjustments on the current year and all prior periods and determined that the cumulative effect of the adjustments was not material to the full-year 2013 results, and did not result in a material misstatement to any previously issued annual or quarterly financial statements. Consequently, the Company recorded the $3.0 million net adjustment in the second quarter of 2013 and has not revised any previously issued annual financial statements or interim financial data.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, demand deposits and short-term investments that are highly liquid in nature and have an original maturity of three months or less.

Equity Method Investments
The equity method of accounting is used for investments in which the Company has the ability to exercise significant influence over, but not control of, an investee. Significant influence generally exists if the Company has an ownership interest representing between 20% and 50% of the voting stock of an investee. Equity method investments are recorded at initial fair value and are adjusted to recognize the Company's proportionate share of the investee's net income or losses after the date of the investment, additional contributions made, distributions received, and impairments resulting from other-than-temporary declines in estimated fair value.

Equity method investments are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that an other-than-temporary decline in the estimated fair value of the investment has occurred. In these instances, the Company compares the estimated fair value of the investment to the book value of the investment to determine if an impairment has occurred. If the estimated fair value of the investment is less than the book value of the investment and the decline is considered to be other-than-temporary, the excess of the book value over the estimated fair value is recognized as an impairment.

See Note 5, Equity Method Investments, for additional information on equity method investments.



57


Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Inventories in the United States are principally accounted for using the last-in, first-out ("LIFO") method. The Company's remaining inventories are accounted for using the first-in, first-out ("FIFO") or average cost methods. See Note 4, Accounts Receivable and Inventories, for additional information on inventories.

Depreciation
Property, plant and equipment is recorded at cost and depreciated over the estimated useful lives of the assets using, principally, the straight-line method. When property is retired from service, the cost of the retirement is charged to the allowance for depreciation to the extent of the accumulated depreciation and the balance is charged to income. Long-lived assets to be disposed of by sale are not depreciated while they are held for sale.

Leases
The Company leases certain property and equipment under noncancelable lease agreements. All lease agreements are evaluated and classified as either an operating lease or capital lease in accordance with U.S. GAAP. A lease is classified as a capital lease if any of the following criteria are met: transfer of ownership to the Company by the end of the lease term; the lease contains a bargain purchase option; the lease term is equal to or greater than 75% of the asset's economic life; or the present value of future minimum lease payments is equal to or greater than 90% of the asset's fair market value. Operating lease expense is recognized ratably over the lease term, including rent abatement periods and rent holidays. See Note 6, Property, Plant and Equipment, and Note 8, Debt and Credit Agreements, for additional information on capital leases and Note 9, Operating Leases, for additional information on operating leases.

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
In accordance with U.S. GAAP, goodwill is not amortized and is tested for impairment at least annually, or more frequently if indicators of impairment exist, or if a decision is made to dispose of a business. Goodwill is allocated among and evaluated for impairment at the reporting unit level, which is defined as an operating segment or one level below for which discrete financial information is available. A significant amount of judgment is involved in determining if an indicator of impairment has occurred. Such indicators may include declining cash flows or operating losses at the reporting unit level, a significant adverse change in legal factors or business climate, an adverse action or assessment by a regulator, unanticipated competition, a loss of key personnel, or a more likely than not expectation that a reporting unit or a significant portion of a reporting unit will be sold or otherwise disposed of, among others.

The Company performs the annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1. The Company has five reporting units, only three of which have goodwill associated with them as of December 31, 2014. Almost all of the Company's goodwill is included in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment.

The evaluation of potential goodwill impairment involves comparing the current fair value of each reporting unit to the net book value, including goodwill. The Company uses a discounted cash flow model (“DCF model”) to estimate the current fair value of reporting units, as management believes forecasted operating cash flows are the best indicator of current fair value. A number of significant assumptions and estimates are involved in the preparation of DCF models including future revenues and operating margin growth, the weighted-average cost of capital (“WACC”), tax rates, capital spending, pension funding, the impact of business initiatives, and working capital projections. These assumptions and estimates may vary significantly between reporting units. DCF models are based on approved long-range plans for the early years and historical relationships and projections for later years. WACC rates are derived from internal and external factors including, but not limited to, the average market price of the Company's stock, shares outstanding, book value of the Company's debt, the long-term risk free interest rate, and both market and size-specific risk premiums. Due to the many variables noted above and the relative size of the Company's goodwill, differences in assumptions may have a material impact on the results of the Company's annual goodwill impairment testing. If the net book value of a reporting unit were to exceed the current fair value, the second step of the goodwill impairment test would be required to determine if an impairment existed and the amount of goodwill impairment to record, if any. The second step of the goodwill impairment test compares the net book value of a reporting unit's goodwill with the implied fair value of that goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill represents the excess of fair value of the reporting unit over the fair value amounts assigned to all of the assets and liabilities of the reporting unit if it were to be acquired in a hypothetical business combination and the current fair value of the reporting unit represented the purchase price. The second step of the goodwill impairment test requires the utilization of valuation experts.

See Note 7, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, for additional information on goodwill.




58


Impairment of Long-Lived Assets (Other than Goodwill)
Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Long-lived assets are reviewed for impairment when events and circumstances indicate the book value of an asset may be impaired. The Company's policy is to determine if an impairment loss exists when it is determined that the carrying amount of the asset exceeds the sum of the expected undiscounted future cash flows resulting from use of the asset, and its eventual disposition. Impairment losses are measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of the asset exceeds its fair value, normally as determined in either open market transactions or through the use of a discounted cash flow model. Long-lived assets to be disposed of are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less cost to sell. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, and Note 17, Other Expenses, for additional information on impairment of long-lived assets (other than goodwill).

Revenue Recognition
Service revenues and product revenues are recognized when they are realized or realizable and when earned. Revenue is realized or realizable and earned when all of the following criteria are met: persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, the Company's price to the buyer is fixed or determinable and collectability is reasonably assured. Service revenues include the service components of the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Harsco Rail Segments. Product revenues include the Harsco Industrial Segment and the product revenues of the Harsco Metals & Minerals and Harsco Rail Segments.
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment—This Segment provides services predominantly on a long-term, volume-of-production contract basis. Contracts may include both fixed monthly fees as well as variable fees based upon specific services provided to the customer. The fixed-fee portion is recognized periodically as earned (normally monthly) over the contractual period. The variable-fee portion is recognized as services are performed and differs from period to period based upon the actual provision of services. This Segment also sells industrial abrasives and roofing granules products. Product revenues are recognized generally when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract.
Harsco Rail Segment—This Segment sells railway track maintenance equipment, parts and provides railway track maintenance services. Product revenue is recognized generally when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all of the revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract. Revenue may be recognized subsequent to the transfer of title and risk of loss for certain product sales, if the specific sales contract includes a customer acceptance clause that provides for different timing. In those situations revenue is recognized after transfer of title and risk of loss and after customer acceptance. Services are predominantly on a long-term, time-and-materials contract basis. Revenue is recognized when earned as services are performed within the long-term contracts.
Harsco Industrial Segment—This Segment sells industrial grating products, heat exchangers, and heat transfer products. Product revenues are generally recognized when title and risk of loss transfer, and when all of the revenue recognition criteria have been met. Title and risk of loss for domestic shipments generally transfer to the customer at the point of shipment. For export sales, title and risk of loss transfer in accordance with the international commercial terms included in the specific customer contract.
Income Taxes
The Company accounts for income taxes under the asset and liability method, which requires the recognition of deferred tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of the events that have been included in the consolidated financial statements. Under this method, deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the differences between the financial statements and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. The effect of a change in tax rates on deferred tax assets and liabilities is recognized in income in the period that includes the enactment date.
The Company records deferred tax assets to the extent that the Company believes that these assets will more likely than not be realized. In making such determinations, the Company considers all available positive and negative evidence, including future reversals of existing deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies and recent financial results. In the event the Company was to determine that it would be able to realize deferred income tax assets in the future in excess of their net recorded amount, an adjustment to the valuation allowance would be made that would reduce the provision for income taxes.

59


The Company prepares and files tax returns based on interpretation of tax laws and regulations and records its provision for income taxes based on these interpretations. Uncertainties may exist in estimating the Company's tax provisions and in filing tax returns in the many jurisdictions in which the Company operates, and as a result these interpretations may give rise to an uncertain tax position. The tax benefit from an uncertain tax position is recognized when it is more likely than not that the position will be sustained upon examination, including resolutions of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on its technical merits. Each subsequent period the Company determines if existing or new uncertain tax positions meet a more likely than not recognition threshold and adjust accordingly.
The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits within Income tax expense in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Operations. Accrued interest and penalties are included in Other liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
In general, it is the practice and the intention of the Company to reinvest the undistributed earnings of its non-U.S. subsidiaries. Should the Company repatriate future earnings, such amounts would become subject to U.S. taxation upon remittance of dividends and under certain other circumstances, thereby giving recognition to current tax expense and to international tax credits.
The significant assumptions and estimates described in the preceding paragraphs are important contributors to the effective tax rate each year.
See Note 11, Income Taxes, for additional information on income taxes.
Accrued Insurance and Loss Reserves
The Company retains a significant portion of the risk for U.S. workers' compensation, U.K. employers' liability, automobile, general and product liability losses. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded insurance expense from continuing operations related to these lines of coverage of $23.3 million, $30.0 million and $33.8 million, respectively. Reserves have been recorded that reflect the undiscounted estimated liabilities including claims incurred but not reported. When a recognized liability is covered by third-party insurance, the Company records an insurance claim receivable to reflect the covered liability. Changes in the estimates of the reserves are included in net loss in the period determined. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded retrospective insurance reserve adjustments that decreased pre-tax insurance expense from continuing operations for self-insured programs by $7.0 million, $7.2 million and $4.3 million, respectively. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has recorded liabilities of $47.9 million and $52.4 million, respectively, related to both asserted as well as unasserted insurance claims. Included in the balance at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were $3.8 million and $4.0 million, respectively, of recognized liabilities covered by insurance carriers. Amounts estimated to be paid within one year have been included in current caption, Insurance liabilities, with the remainder included in non-current caption, Insurance liabilities, on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Warranties
The Company has recorded product warranty reserves of $8.9 million, $9.5 million and $9.1 million at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company provides for warranties of certain products as they are sold. The following table summarizes the warranty activity for 2014, 2013 and 2012:
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Warranty reserves, beginning of the year
 
$
9,548

 
$
9,092

 
$
5,596

Accruals for warranties issued during the year
 
3,208

 
5,016

 
7,935

Reductions related to pre-existing warranties
 
(2,680
)
 
(1,966
)
 
(2,401
)
Warranties paid
 
(1,186
)
 
(2,573
)
 
(1,958
)
Other (principally foreign currency translation)
 
(4
)
 
(21
)
 
(80
)
Warranty reserves, end of the year
 
$
8,886

 
$
9,548

 
$
9,092

Warranty expense and payments are incurred principally in the Harsco Rail and Harsco Industrial Segments. Warranty activity may vary from year to year depending upon the mix of revenues and contractual terms related to product warranties.








60


Foreign Currency Translation
The financial statements of the Company's subsidiaries outside the United States, except for those subsidiaries located in highly inflationary economies and those entities for which the U.S. dollar is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Assets and liabilities of these subsidiaries are translated at the exchange rates at the balance sheet date. Resulting translation adjustments are recorded in the cumulative translation adjustment account, a separate component of Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Income and expense items are translated at average monthly exchange rates. Gains and losses from foreign currency transactions are included in Operating income (loss) from continuing operations. For subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies, and those entities for which the U.S. dollar is the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates, gains and losses on foreign currency transactions and balance sheet translation adjustments are included in Operating income (loss) from continuing operations. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company had no subsidiaries operating in highly inflationary economies.

Financial Instruments and Hedging
The Company has operations throughout the world that are exposed to fluctuations in related foreign currencies in the normal course of business. The Company seeks to reduce exposure to foreign currency fluctuations through the use of forward exchange contracts. The Company does not hold or issue financial instruments for trading purposes, and it is the Company's policy to prohibit the use of derivatives for speculative purposes. The Company has a Foreign Currency Risk Management Committee that meets periodically to monitor foreign currency risks.
The Company executes foreign currency forward exchange contracts to hedge transactions for firm purchase commitments, to hedge variable cash flows of forecasted transactions and for export sales denominated in foreign currencies. These contracts are generally for 90 days or less; however, where appropriate, longer-term contracts may be utilized. For those contracts that are designated as qualified cash flow hedges, gains or losses are recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.
The Company uses cross currency interest rate swaps in conjunction with certain debt issuances in order to lock in fixed local currency interest rates. Under these cross currency interest rate swaps, the Company receives interest based on a fixed or variable U.S. dollar rate and pays interest based on a fixed local currency rate based on the contractual amounts in U.S. dollars and the local currency, respectively.
Amounts recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss on the Consolidated Balance Sheets are reclassified into operations in the same period or periods during which the hedged forecasted transaction affects income. The cash flows from these contracts are classified consistent with the cash flows from the transaction being hedged (e.g., the cash flows related to contracts to hedge the purchase of fixed assets are included in cash flows from investing activities, etc.). The Company also enters into certain forward exchange contracts that are not designated as hedges. Gains and losses on these contracts are recognized in operations based on changes in fair market value. For fair value hedges of a firm commitment, the gain or loss on the derivative and the offsetting gain or loss on the hedged firm commitment are recognized currently in operations.
See Note 15, Financial Instruments, for additional information on financial instruments and hedging.

Earnings Per Share
Basic earnings per share are calculated using the weighted-average shares of common stock outstanding, while diluted earnings per share reflect the dilutive effects of stock-based compensation. All share and per share amounts are restated for any stock splits and stock dividends that occur prior to the issuance of the financial statements. See Note 13, Capital Stock, for additional information on earnings per share.

Use of Estimates in the Preparation of Financial Statements
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP 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 date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses. Actual results could differ from those estimates.






61


2. Recently Adopted and Recently Issued Accounting Standards
The following accounting standards have been adopted in 2014:
On January 1, 2014, the Company adopted Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB")-issued changes related to a parent's accounting for the cumulative translation adjustment upon derecognition of certain subsidiaries or groups of assets within a foreign entity or of an investment in a foreign entity. The changes resolve diversity in practice related to these matters. The adoption of these changes did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
On January 1, 2014, the Company adopted FASB-issued changes related to financial statement presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryforward exists that could be used to offset the liability for an uncertain tax position. The changes resolve diversity in practice related to these matters. The adoption of these changes did not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
The following accounting standards have been issued and become effective for the Company at a future date:
In April 2014, the FASB issued changes related to reporting discontinued operations and disclosure of disposals of components of an entity. The changes modify the criteria related to what transactions constitute discontinued operations and expands disclosure requirements. The changes become effective for the Company, prospectively, on January 1, 2015. Management has determined that these changes will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.
In May 2014, the FASB issued changes related to the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers. The changes clarify the principles for recognizing revenue and develop a common revenue standard. The core principle of the changes is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. The changes also require additional disclosures related to revenue recognition. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Management is currently evaluating these changes.
In August 2014, the FASB issued changes related to management’s responsibility to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about an entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and to provide related footnote disclosures. The changes become effective for the Company on January 1, 2017. Management has determined that these changes will not have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

3. Acquisitions and Dispositions
Acquisitions
In January 2014, the Company acquired Hammco Corporation ("Hammco"), a U.S. manufacturer of high specification air-cooled heat exchangers for the natural gas and petrochemical processing markets. Hammco has been included in the results of the Harsco Industrial Segment. Inclusion of pro forma financial information for this transaction is not necessary due to the immaterial size of the acquisition. The purchase price allocation for this acquisition is now final.

Net Loss Attributable to the Company and Changes to Noncontrolling Interest
The following table discloses the effects of changes in the Company's ownership interests in subsidiaries on the Company's equity.
 
 
Years Ended December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Net loss attributable to the Company
 
$
(24,792
)
 
$
(227,941
)
 
$
(254,612
)
Net increase in the Company's paid-in capital for changes to noncontrolling interest
 

 
711

 

Change from net loss attributable to the Company and changes to noncontrolling interest
 
$
(24,792
)
 
$
(227,230
)
 
$
(254,612
)








62


Dispositions

Infrastructure Transaction
In November 2013, the Company consummated the previously announced transaction to sell the Company's Harsco Infrastructure Segment into a strategic venture with Clayton, Dubilier & Rice ("CD&R") as part of a transaction that combines the Harsco Infrastructure Segment with Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc., which CD&R simultaneously acquired (the "Infrastructure Transaction"). The Company has contributed substantially all of the Company's equity interest in, and the net assets of, the Harsco Infrastructure Segment to the strategic venture in exchange for $300 million, subject to working capital and other adjustments, and an approximate 29% equity interest in the resulting entity (the "Infrastructure strategic venture" or "Brand"). The Company's equity interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture is accounted for under the equity method of accounting as prescribed by U.S. GAAP. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, and Note 5, Equity Method Investments, for additional information on equity method investments.

As a result of the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company recorded an estimated loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment of $271.3 million during 2013 and recorded an additional loss of $3.9 million during 2014. Further adjustment to the loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment may be necessary as the result of the final valuation of certain items. The Company does not expect that the ultimate conclusion of these items will have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. The loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment represents the difference between the book value of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment, less costs to sell, and the sum of the cash consideration plus the fair value of the Company's approximate 29% equity interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture. The fair value of the equity interest was determined based on the expected future discounted cash flows of the Infrastructure strategic venture.

While the Infrastructure Transaction was consummated on November 26, 2013, the ownership interest in certain jurisdictions did not transfer as of December 31, 2013. The carrying amounts of the remaining assets and liabilities that were aggregated in the captions, Assets held-for-sale and Liabilities of assets held-for-sale, respectively, on the Consolidated Balance Sheet at December 31, 2013 were as follows:
(In thousands)
 
December 31
2013
 
(In thousands)
 
December 31
2013
Assets held-for-sale:
 
 
 
Liabilities of assets held-for-sale:
 
 
  Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
1,290

 
  Accounts payable
 
$
4,143

  Trade accounts receivable, net
 
28,471

 
  Accrued compensation
 
4,618

  Due from unconsolidated affiliate
 
65,728

 
  Income taxes payable
 
1,105

  Inventories
 
5,898

 
  Insurance liabilities - current portion
 
21

  Other current assets
 
2,129

 
  Due to unconsolidated affiliate
 
97,079

  Property, plant and equipment, net
 
10,343

 
  Other current liabilities
 
2,210

  Other assets
 
109

 
 
 
 
 
 
$
113,968

 
 
 
$
109,176


The ownership interest in the jurisdictions representing the assets held-for-sale and liabilities of assets held-for-sale at December 31, 2013 were transferred to Brand during January 2014.

Additionally, the Company incurred $2.2 million and $20.1 million of transaction costs during the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, in conjunction with the Infrastructure Transaction.

Harsco Gas Technologies
Consistent with the strategic focus to grow and allocate financial resources principally to the Company's industrial services businesses, the Company sold the Gas Technologies Segment to Taylor Wharton International in 2007. The Consolidated Statements of Operations for the years ended 2014, 2013 and 2012 reflect the Gas Technologies Segment's results as discontinued operations. The Company recorded after-tax income from discontinued operations of $0.1 million and after-tax losses from discontinued operations of $1.5 million and $0.9 million, in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The income in 2014 and losses incurred in 2013 and 2012 included charges related to potential and contingent claims.





63


4. Accounts Receivable and Inventories
Accounts receivable consist of the following:
 
 
Accounts Receivable
(In thousands)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
Trade accounts receivable
 
$
340,223

 
$
359,819

Less: Allowance for doubtful accounts
 
(15,119
)
 
(6,638
)
Trade accounts receivable, net
 
$
325,104

 
$
353,181

 
 
 
 
 
Other receivables (a)
 
$
28,145

 
$
46,470

(a)
Other receivables include insurance claim receivables, employee receivables, tax claim receivables and other miscellaneous receivables not included in Trade accounts receivable, net.
The following table reflects the provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
Years Ended December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Provision for doubtful accounts related to trade accounts receivable
 
$
9,892

 
$
10,175

 
$
11,266

Inventories consist of the following:
 
 
Inventories
(In thousands)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
Finished goods
 
$
30,001

 
$
23,112

Work-in-process
 
28,644

 
25,623

Raw materials and purchased parts
 
86,898

 
72,118

Stores and supplies
 
31,722

 
34,836

Total inventories
 
$
177,265

 
$
155,689

Valued at lower of cost or market:
 
 
 
 
LIFO basis
 
$
107,691

 
$
94,939

FIFO basis
 
13,383

 
9,859

Average cost basis
 
56,191

 
50,891

Total inventories
 
$
177,265

 
$
155,689

Inventories valued on the LIFO basis at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were approximately $33 million and $28 million, respectively, less than the amounts of such inventories valued at current costs.
During 2014, as a result of reducing certain inventory quantities valued on the LIFO basis, net loss decreased from that which would have been recorded under the FIFO basis of valuation by $0.1 million. During 2013, there was no significant impact on net loss as a result of reducing certain inventory quantities valued on a LIFO basis. During 2012, as a result of reducing certain inventory quantities valued on the LIFO basis, net loss decreased from that which would have been recorded under the FIFO basis of valuation by $0.1 million.


5. Equity Method Investments

As a result of the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company owns an approximate 29% equity interest in Brand at December 31, 2014. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information related to the Infrastructure Transaction.

Brand is a leading provider of specialized services to the global energy, industrial and infrastructure markets that combines a global footprint, broad service offerings and rigorous operating processes to support customer required facility maintenance and turnaround needs and capital driven upgrade and expansion plans. Brand's range of services includes work access, corrosion management, atmospheric and immersion coatings, insulation services, fireproofing and refractory, mechanical services, forming and shoring and other complementary specialty services. Brand delivers services through a global network of strategically located branches in six continents with a particular focus on major hydrocarbon and power generation markets globally. In addition, Brand has co-located branches at energy-related customer facilities providing a consistent presence for required maintenance work.


64


The Company records the Company's proportionate share of Brand's net income or loss one quarter in arrears. Accordingly, the Company's Consolidated Statement of Operations for the year ended December 31, 2013 does not include any amounts related to the Infrastructure strategic venture in the caption, Equity in income of unconsolidated entities, net. Brand's summarized balance sheet information at September 30, 2014 and summarized statement of operations information for the period from November 27, 2013 through September 30, 2014 are summarized as follows:
 
 
 
(In thousands)
 
September 30
2014
Summarized Balance Sheet Information of Brand:
 
 
Current assets
 
$
815,809

Property and equipment , net
 
923,056

Other noncurrent assets
 
1,594,669

Total assets
 
$
3,333,534

 
 
 
Short-term borrowings, including current portion of long-term debt
 
$
68,748

Other current liabilities
 
360,714

Long-term debt
 
1,747,522

Other noncurrent liabilities
 
406,636

Total liabilities
 
2,583,620

Equity
 
749,914

Total liabilities and equity
 
$
3,333,534

(In thousands)
 
Period From November 27 2013 Through September 30 2014 (a)
Summarized Statement of Operations Information of Brand:
 
 
Net revenues
 
$
2,559,556

Gross profit
 
559,376

Net income (loss) attributable to Brand Energy & Infrastructure Services, Inc. and Subsidiaries
 
(4,848
)
Harsco's equity in income (loss) of Brand
 
(1,595
)
(a) The Company's equity method investment in Brand began on November 26, 2013; accordingly, there is only approximately ten months of related equity income (loss). The results of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment from January 1, 2013 through the date of closing are reported in the Company's results of operations for 2013.

The book value of the Company's equity method investment in Brand at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was $285.7 million and $296.1 million, respectively. The Company's initial underlying equity in the net assets of Brand, upon consummation of the Infrastructure Transaction, was approximately $225 million. The difference between the initial fair value of the Company's equity method investment in Brand and the Company's underlying equity in the net assets of Brand was determined to be equity method goodwill and is not amortized.

The initial determination of fair value of the Company's equity method investment (Level 3) in Brand was derived with a primary reliance upon the income approach. Various DCF models were created based on the Company's most likely case view of cash flow projections for Brand over a five year horizon. The following table details quantitative information about significant unobservable inputs:
 
 
Fair Value at December 31 2013
 
 
 
 
 
Range
(Dollars in thousands)
 
 
Valuation Technique
 
Unobservable Input
 
Low
 
High
Equity method investment - Brand
 
$
296,082

 
Discounted cash flow
 
EBITDA Margin
 
10.9
%
 
12.6
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Ratio of capital expenditures to revenues
 
2.9
%
 
3.8
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Long-term revenue growth
 
3.0
%
 
3.0
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
WACC Rate
 
9.25
%
 
9.25
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of equity
 
12.5
%
 
12.5
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Implied exit EBITDA multiple
 
7.0X

 
7.5X

 
 
 
 
 
 
Discount for lack of marketability
 
15
%
 
15
%

65



No instances of impairment were noted on the Company's equity method investment at December 31, 2014.

As part of the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company is required to make quarterly payments to the Company's partner in the Infrastructure strategic venture, either (at the Company's election) (i) in cash, with total payments to equal approximately $22 million per year on a pre-tax basis (approximately $15 million per year after-tax), or (ii) in kind through the transfer of approximately 2.5% of the Company's ownership interest in the Infrastructure strategic venture on an annual basis (the "unit adjustment liability"). The resulting liability is reflected in the caption, Unit adjustment liability, on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. The Company will recognize the change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability each period until the Company is no longer required to make these payments or chooses not to make these payments. The change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability is a non-cash expense. For the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company recognized $9.7 million and $1.0 million, respectively, of change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability.

The Company's obligation to make a quarterly payment will cease upon the earlier of (i) Brand achieving $487.0 million in last twelve months' earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") for three quarters, which need not be consecutive, or (ii) eight years after the closing of the Infrastructure Transaction. In addition, upon the initial public offering of Brand, the Company's quarterly payment obligation will decrease by the portion of CD&R's ownership interest sold or eliminated completely once CD&R's ownership interest in Brand falls below 20%. In the event of a liquidation event of Brand, CD&R is entitled to a liquidation preference of approximately $336 million, plus any quarterly payments that had been paid in kind.

The Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2014 and 2013 include balances related to the unit adjustment liability of $93.8 million and $106.3 million, respectively, in the current and non-current captions, Unit adjustment liability. A reconciliation of beginning and ending balances related to the unit adjustment liability is included in Note 15, Financial Instruments.

The Company intends to make these quarterly payments in cash and will continue to evaluate the implications of making payments in cash or in kind based upon performance of the Infrastructure strategic venture. In the future, should the Company decide not to make the cash payment, the value of both the equity method investment in Brand and the related unit adjustment liability may be impacted, and the change may be reflected in earnings in that period.

Balances related to transactions between the Company and Brand are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
Balances due from Brand
 
$
1,860

 
$
85,908

Balances due to Brand
 
28,311

 
149,325


The remaining balances between the Company and Brand, at December 31, 2014, relate primarily to transition services and the funding of certain transferred defined benefit pension plan obligations through 2018. There is not expected to be any significant level of revenue or expense between the Company and Brand on an on-going basis once all aspects of the Infrastructure Transaction have been finalized.












66


6. Property, Plant and Equipment
Property, plant and equipment consist of the following:
(In thousands)
 
Estimated
Useful Lives
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
Land
 
 
$
15,721

 
$
16,652

Land improvements
 
5-20 years
 
15,898

 
13,615

Buildings and improvements
 
5-40 years
 
205,409

 
192,346

Machinery and equipment
 
3-20 years
 
1,861,965

 
1,969,493

Uncompleted construction
 
 
87,414

 
86,508

Gross property, plant and equipment
 
 
 
2,186,407

 
2,278,614

Less: Accumulated depreciation
 
 
 
(1,523,163
)
 
(1,567,268
)
Property, plant and equipment, net
 
 
 
$
663,244

 
$
711,346

Included in the amounts are $22.3 million and $23.5 million of property, plant and equipment under capital leases at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively.
Buildings and improvements include leasehold improvements that are amortized over the shorter of their useful lives or the initial term of the lease.

7. Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
Goodwill by Segment
The following table reflects the changes in carrying amounts of goodwill by segment (there is no goodwill associated with the Harsco Infrastructure Segment) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
(In thousands)
 
Harsco Metals
& Minerals
Segment
 
Harsco
Industrial
Segment
 
Harsco
Rail
Segment
 
Consolidated
Totals
Balance at December 31, 2012
 
$
419,888

 
$

 
$
9,310

 
$
429,198

Foreign currency translation
 
2,067

 

 

 
2,067

Balance at December 31, 2013
 
421,955

 

 
9,310

 
431,265

Changes to goodwill
 
(300
)
 
6,839

(a)

 
6,539

Foreign currency translation
 
(21,649
)
 

 

 
(21,649
)
Balance at December 31, 2014
 
$
400,006

 
$
6,839

 
$
9,310

 
$
416,155

(a)
Changes to goodwill relate to the initial acquisition of Hammco and related purchase price adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP occurring during the measurement period. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions.

The Company's methodology for determining reporting unit fair value is described in Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies. Performance of the Company's 2014 annual impairment test did not result in impairment of any of the Company's reporting units.

Intangible Assets
Intangible assets totaled $58.5 million, net of accumulated amortization of $147.9 million at December 31, 2014 and $53.3 million, net of accumulated amortization of $143.4 million at December 31, 2013. The following table reflects these intangible assets by major category:
 
 
December 31, 2014
 
December 31, 2013
(In thousands)
 
Gross Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Gross Carrying
Amount
 
Accumulated
Amortization
Customer related
 
$
157,530

 
$
112,211

 
$
150,307

 
$
110,889

Non-compete agreements
 
1,107

 
1,039

 
1,126

 
1,024

Patents
 
6,079

 
5,399

 
6,211

 
5,273

Technology related
 
26,548

 
21,233

 
27,185

 
18,931

Trade names
 
7,745

 
3,733

 
4,113

 
2,969

Other
 
7,420

 
4,290

 
7,753

 
4,348

Total
 
$
206,429

 
$
147,905

 
$
196,695

 
$
143,434



67


The gross carrying amount of intangible assets increased in 2014 due to the acquisition of Hammco, as discussed in Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions. As part of this transaction, the Company acquired the following finite-lived intangible assets (by major class):
(In thousands)
 
Gross Carrying
Amount
 
Residual
Value
 
Weighted-average
amortization period
Customer related
 
$
13,928

 
 
12 years
Trade names
 
3,647

 
 
15 years
Total
 
$
17,575

 
 
 
 

Amortization expense for intangible assets was $9.9 million, $13.8 million and $17.6 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The following table shows the estimated amortization expense for the next five fiscal years based on current intangible assets.
(In thousands)
 
2015
 
2016
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
Estimated amortization expense (a)
 
$
8,350

 
$
7,800

 
$
5,050

 
$
4,850

 
$
4,800

(a)
These estimated amortization expense amounts do not reflect the potential effect of future foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations.



8. Debt and Credit Agreements
The Company has a multi-year revolving credit facility that is available for use throughout the world. The following table illustrates the amount outstanding under the multi-year revolving credit facility and available credit at December 31, 2014. The multi-year revolving credit facility is described in more detail below the table.
 
 
Summary of Credit Facility
 
 
December 31, 2014
(In thousands)
 
Facility
Limit
 
Outstanding
Balance
 
Available
Credit
Multi-year revolving credit facility (a U.S.-based program)
 
$
525,000

 
$
98,500

 
$
426,500

In March 2012, the Company entered into an Amended and Restated Five Year Credit Agreement (the "Credit Agreement") providing for $525 million of borrowing capacity through a syndicate of 14 banks.  The Credit Agreement matures in March 2017.  The Company has the option to increase the borrowing capacity available under the Credit Agreement to $550 million.  Borrowings under the Credit Agreement are available in most major currencies with active markets and at interest rates based upon LIBOR, plus a margin.

On September 12, 2013, the Company entered into Amendment No.1 ("Amendment No. 1") to the Credit Agreement. In addition to certain administrative and conforming modifications, Amendment No. 1 replaced the total consolidated debt to total consolidated capital ratio debt covenant. That debt covenant was replaced by a debt covenant for total consolidated debt to consolidated EBITDA, which is not to exceed 3.5 to 1.0. During the three months ended September 30, 2013, the Company expensed $0.4 million of fees associated with Amendment No. 1.
On December 20, 2013, the Company entered into Amendment No. 2 ("Amendment No. 2") to the Credit Agreement.  Amendment No. 2 modified certain defined terms to reflect the impact of the Infrastructure Transaction. During the three months ended December 31, 2013, the Company expensed $0.3 million of fees associated with Amendment No. 2.
At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company had $98.5 million and $35.0 million, respectively, of Credit Agreement borrowings outstanding. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, all such balances were classified as long-term borrowings in the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Classification of such balances is based on the Company's ability and intent to repay such amounts over the subsequent twelve months, as well as reflects the Company's ability and intent to borrow for a period longer than a year. To the extent the Company expects to repay any amounts within the subsequent twelve months, the amounts are classified as short-term borrowings.
Short-term borrowings amounted to $16.7 million and $7.5 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Short-term borrowings consist principally of bank overdrafts. The weighted-average interest rate for short-term borrowings at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was 11.7% and 10.8%, respectively.

68


 
 
Long-Term Debt
(In thousands)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
5.75% notes due May 15, 2018
 
$
448,626

 
$
448,268

2.7% notes due October 15, 2015
 
249,733

 
249,373

Other financing payable (including capital leases) in varying amounts due principally through 2017 with a weighted-average interest rate of 4.0% and 3.6% at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively
 
156,538

 
105,774

Total debt
 
854,897

 
803,415

Less: current maturities
 
(25,188
)
 
(20,257
)
Total long-term debt
 
$
829,709

 
$
783,158


At December 31, 2014, the Company's 2.7% notes due October 15, 2015 are classified as long-term debt on the Consolidated Balance Sheet based on the Company's intent to refinance this debt using debt capital markets and ability to refinance this debt using borrowings under the Credit Agreement.
The maturities of long-term debt for the four years following December 31, 2015 are as follows:

(In thousands)
 
 
2016
 
$
11,732

2017
 
363,047

2018
 
453,759

2019
 
876

Cash payments for interest on all debt were $44.2 million, $50.1 million and $45.5 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
In addition to the total consolidated debt to consolidated EBITDA ratio covenant, which is not to exceed 3.5 to 1.0, the Credit Agreement contains covenants that limit the proportion of subsidiary consolidated indebtedness to a maximum of 10% of consolidated tangible assets and require a minimum consolidated EBITDA to consolidated interest charges ratio of 3.0 to 1.0. The Company’s 5.75% and 2.7% notes include covenants that require the Company to offer to repurchase the notes at 101% of par in the event of a change of control of the Company or disposition of substantially all of the Company’s assets in combination with a downgrade in the Company’s credit rating to non-investment grade.  At December 31, 2014, the Company was in compliance with these and all other covenants.


9. Operating Leases
The Company leases certain property and equipment under noncancelable operating leases. Rental expense under such operating leases was $19.7 million, $51.7 million and $54.9 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
Future minimum payments under operating leases with noncancelable terms are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
 
2015
 
$
14,642

2016
 
10,905

2017
 
7,204

2018
 
4,075

2019
 
3,546

After 2019
 
24,762

Total minimum rentals to be received in the future under noncancelable subleases at December 31, 2014 are $0.6 million.
The decrease in 2014 rental expense under operating leases is due to the Infrastructure Transaction. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information related to the Infrastructure Transaction.



69


10. Employee Benefit Plans
Pension Benefits
The Company has defined benefit pension retirement plans covering a substantial number of employees. The defined benefits for salaried employees generally are based on years of service and the employee's level of compensation during specified periods of employment. Defined benefit plans covering hourly employees generally provide benefits of stated amounts for each year of service. The multiemployer plans in which the Company participates provide benefits to certain unionized employees. The Company's funding policy for qualified plans is consistent with statutory regulations and customarily equals the amount deducted for income tax purposes. Periodic voluntary contributions are made, as recommended, by the Company's pension committee. The Company's policy is to amortize prior service costs of defined benefit pension plans over the average future service period of active plan participants.
For most U.S. defined benefit pension plans and a majority of international defined benefit pension plans, accrued service is no longer granted. In place of these plans, the Company has established defined contribution pension plans providing for the Company to contribute a specified matching amount for participating employees' contributions to the plan. For U.S. employees, this match is made on employee contributions up to 4% of their eligible compensation. Additionally, the Company may provide a discretionary contribution of up to 2% of compensation for eligible employees. This discretionary amount has not been provided for the years 2014, 2013 and 2012. For non-U.S. employees, this match is up to 6% of eligible compensation with an additional 2% going towards insurance and administrative costs.
Net periodic pension cost for U.S. and international pension plans for 2014, 2013 and 2012 is as follows:
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
International Plans
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Defined benefit plans:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
 
$
2,233

 
$
2,565

 
$
1,887

 
$
1,610

 
$
3,457

 
$
3,418

Interest cost
 
12,868

 
11,767

 
12,780

 
43,230

 
42,707

 
46,174

Expected return on plan assets
 
(16,786
)
 
(15,642
)
 
(15,617
)
 
(49,927
)
 
(46,920
)
 
(45,050
)
Recognized prior service costs
 
90

 
248

 
224

 
184

 
335

 
397

Recognized losses
 
3,352

 
5,052

 
4,637

 
14,102

 
16,447

 
15,194

Amortization of transition liability
 

 

 

 

 

 
8

Settlement/curtailment loss (gain)
 

 

 
1,510

 
60

 
(372
)
 
(2,589
)
Defined benefit plans pension cost
 
1,757

 
3,990

 
5,421

 
9,259

 
15,654

 
17,552

Multiemployer plans
 
1,199

 
12,444

 
10,186

 
1,762

 
5,449

 
5,539

Defined contribution plans
 
4,704

 
4,945

 
5,066

 
8,033

 
11,139

 
12,770

Net periodic pension cost
 
$
7,660

 
$
21,379

 
$
20,673

 
$
19,054

 
$
32,242

 
$
35,861


70


The change in the financial status of the pension plans and amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
International Plans
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Change in benefit obligation:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Benefit obligation at beginning of year
 
$
283,571

 
$
316,448

 
$
958,705

 
$
1,068,750

Service cost
 
2,233

 
2,565

 
1,610

 
3,457

Interest cost
 
12,868

 
11,767

 
43,230

 
42,707

Plan participants' contributions
 

 

 
75

 
689

Amendments
 

 

 

 
(394
)
Actuarial (gain) loss
 
49,939

 
(28,158
)
 
150,289

 
(8,245
)
Settlements/curtailments
 

 

 
(589
)
 
(1,619
)
Benefits paid
 
(23,292
)
 
(19,051
)
 
(41,522
)
 
(46,269
)
Effect of foreign currency
 

 

 
(62,250
)
 
19,744

Infrastructure Transaction transfer (a)
 

 

 

 
(120,115
)
Other
 

 

 
55

 

Benefit obligation at end of year
 
$
325,319

 
$
283,571

 
$
1,049,603

 
$
958,705

Change in plan assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year
 
$
233,579

 
$
218,084

 
$
770,911

 
$
783,059

Actual return on plan assets
 
15,465

 
31,931

 
80,518

 
68,535

Employer contributions
 
7,598

 
2,615

 
28,112

 
30,258

Plan participants' contributions
 

 

 
75

 
689

Settlements/curtailments
 

 

 

 
(1,028
)
Benefits paid
 
(23,292
)
 
(19,051
)
 
(40,948
)
 
(45,207
)
Effect of foreign currency
 

 

 
(47,623
)
 
11,455

Infrastructure Transaction transfer (a)
 

 

 

 
(76,850
)
Fair value of plan assets at end of year
 
$
233,350

 
$
233,579

 
$
791,045

 
$
770,911

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Funded status at end of year
 
$
(91,969
)
 
$
(49,992
)
 
$
(258,558
)
 
$
(187,794
)
(a) During 2013, certain international plans' benefit obligations and plan assets were transferred to the Infrastructure strategic venture as part of the Infrastructure Transaction, as described in Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions.
Amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
International Plans
 
 
December 31
 
December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Noncurrent assets
 
$
615

 
$
2,148

 
$
1,746

 
$
3,894

Current liabilities
 
2,102

 
2,045

 
524

 
534

Noncurrent liabilities
 
90,482

 
50,095

 
259,780

 
191,154

Accumulated other comprehensive loss before tax
 
157,165

 
109,348

 
479,382

 
401,300

Amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, before tax, consist of the following at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
International Plans
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Net actuarial loss
 
$
156,989

 
$
109,081

 
$
478,396

 
$
400,726

Prior service cost
 
176

 
267

 
986

 
574

Total
 
$
157,165

 
$
109,348

 
$
479,382

 
$
401,300

The estimated amounts that will be amortized from accumulated other comprehensive loss into defined benefit net periodic pension cost in 2015 are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
U.S. Plans
 
International  Plans
Net actuarial loss
 
$
4,919

 
$
17,254

Prior service cost
 
81

 
208

Total
 
$
5,000

 
$
17,462


71


The Company's estimate of expected contributions to be paid in 2015 for the U.S. and international defined benefit plans are $2.5 million and $31.2 million, respectively.
Future Benefit Payments
The expected benefit payments for defined benefit plans over the next 10 years are as follows:
(In millions)
 
2015
 
2016
 
2017
 
2018
 
2019
 
2020-2024
U.S. Plans
 
$
18.5

 
$
18.8

 
$
18.6

 
$
18.8

 
$
18.7

 
$
94.5

International Plans
 
42.1

 
43.8

 
45.5

 
46.2

 
47.7

 
266.0


Net Periodic Pension Cost Assumptions
The weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the net periodic pension cost for 2014, 2013 and 2012 were as follows:
 
 
U.S. Plans
December 31
 
International Plans
December 31
 
Global Weighted-Average
December 31
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Discount rates
 
4.7
%
 
3.8
%
 
4.4
%
 
4.7
%
 
4.3
%
 
4.8
%
 
4.7
%
 
4.2
%
 
4.7
%
Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets
 
7.5
%
 
7.5
%
 
7.8
%
 
6.8
%
 
6.6
%
 
6.7
%
 
7.0
%
 
6.8
%
 
6.9
%
Rates of compensation increase
 
3.0
%
 
3.0
%
 
3.0
%
 
3.4
%
 
2.8
%
 
3.4
%
 
3.4
%
 
2.8
%
 
3.4
%
The expected long-term rates of return on plan assets for the 2015 net periodic pension cost are 7.5% for the U.S. plans and 6.8% for the international plans. The expected global long-term rate of return on assets for 2015 is 7.0%.

Defined Benefit Pension Obligation Assumptions
The weighted-average actuarial assumptions used to determine the defined benefit pension plan obligations at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
International Plans
 
Global Weighted-Average
 
 
December 31
 
December 31
 
December 31
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Discount rates
 
3.9
%
 
4.7
%
 
3.7
%
 
4.7
%
 
3.7
%
 
4.7
%
Rates of compensation increase
 
3.0
%
 
3.0
%
 
3.2
%
 
3.4
%
 
3.2
%
 
3.3
%
The U.S. discount rate was determined using a yield curve that was produced from a universe containing approximately 700 U.S. dollar-denominated, AA-graded corporate bonds, all of which were noncallable (or callable with make-whole provisions), and excluding the 10% of the bonds with the highest yields and the 10% with the lowest yields within each maturity group. The discount rate was then developed as the level-equivalent rate that would produce the same present value as that using spot rates to discount the projected benefit payments. For international plans, the discount rate is aligned to corporate bond yields in the local markets, normally AA-rated corporations. The process and selection seeks to approximate the cash inflows with the timing and amounts of the expected benefit payments.
Accumulated Benefit Obligation
The accumulated benefit obligation for all defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
International Plans
 
 
December 31
 
December 31
(In millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Accumulated benefit obligation
 
$
325.3

 
$
283.5

 
$
1,043.2

 
$
950.7











72


Plans with Accumulated Benefit Obligation in Excess of Plan Assets
The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for pension plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 were as follows:
 
 
U.S. Plans
 
International Plans
 
 
December 31
 
December 31
(In millions)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2014
 
2013
Projected benefit obligation
 
$
314.9

 
$
274.8

 
$
1,032.1

 
$
926.8

Accumulated benefit obligation
 
314.9

 
274.8

 
1,026.0

 
923.9

Fair value of plan assets
 
222.3

 
222.6

 
771.8

 
737.6

The asset allocations attributable to the Company's U.S. defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2014 and 2013, and the long-term target allocation of plan assets, by asset category, are as follows:
 
 
Target  Long-Term
Allocation
 
Percentage of Plan Assets at
December 31
U.S. Plans Asset Category
 
 
2014
 
2013
Domestic equity securities
 
34%-44%
 
39.1
%
 
41.8
%
International equity securities
 
14%-24%
 
18.2
%
 
19.5
%
Fixed income securities
 
28%-38%
 
30.3
%
 
25.9
%
Cash and cash equivalents
 
Less than 5%
 
3.1
%
 
3.2
%
Other
 
5%-15%
 
9.3
%
 
9.6
%
Plan assets are allocated among various categories of equities, fixed income securities and cash and cash equivalents with professional investment managers whose performance is actively monitored. The primary investment objective is long-term growth of assets in order to meet present and future benefit obligations. The Company periodically conducts an asset/liability modeling study and accordingly adjusts investments among and within asset categories to ensure the long-term investment strategy is aligned with the profile of benefit obligations.
The Company reviews the long-term expected return on asset assumption on a periodic basis taking into account a variety of factors including the historical investment returns achieved over a long-term period, the targeted allocation of plan assets and future expectations based on a model of asset returns for an actively managed portfolio. The model simulates 1,000 different capital market results over 20 years. For both 2015 and 2014, the expected return-on-asset assumption for U.S. plans was 7.5%.
The U.S. defined benefit pension plans assets include 450,000 shares of the Company's common stock valued at $8.5 million at December 31, 2014 and 450,000 shares of the Company's common stock valued at $12.6 million at December 31, 2013. These shares represented 3.6% and 5.4% of total plan assets at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Dividends paid to the pension plans on the Company's common stock amounted to $0.4 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012.
The asset allocations attributable to the Company's international defined benefit pension plans at December 31, 2014 and 2013 and the long-term target allocation of plan assets, by asset category, are as follows:
International Plans Asset Category
 
Target Long-Term
Allocation
 
Percentage of Plan Assets at
December 31
 
 
2014
 
2013
Equity securities
 
32.5
%
 
36.9
%
 
38.5
%
Fixed income securities
 
42.5
%
 
45.3
%
 
42.0
%
Cash and cash equivalents
 

 
0.3
%
 
0.3
%
Other
 
25.0
%
 
17.5
%
 
19.2
%
Plan assets at December 31, 2014 in the U.K. defined benefit pension plan amounted to 94% of the international pension assets. These assets are allocated among various categories of equities, fixed income securities and cash and cash equivalents with professional investment managers whose performance is actively monitored. The primary investment objective is long-term growth of assets in order to meet present and future benefit obligations. The Company periodically conducts asset/liability modeling studies and accordingly adjusts investment amounts within asset categories to ensure the long-term investment strategy is aligned with the profile of benefit obligations.



73


For the international long-term rate of return assumption, the Company considered the current level of expected returns in risk-free investments (primarily government bonds), the historical level of the risk premium associated with other asset classes in which the portfolio is invested and the expectations for future returns of each asset class and plan expenses. The expected return for each asset class was then weighted based on the target asset allocation to develop the expected long-term rate of return on assets. For both 2015 and 2014, the expected return on asset assumption for the U.K. plan was 6.8%. The remaining international pension plans, with assets representing 6% of the international pension assets, are under the guidance of professional investment managers and have similar investment objectives.
The fair values of the Company's U.S. pension plans' assets at December 31, 2014 by asset class are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Domestic equities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stocks
 
$
44,064

 
$
44,064

 
$

 
$

Mutual funds—equities
 
47,313

 
13,335

 
33,978

 

International equities—mutual funds
 
42,446

 
42,446

 

 

Fixed income investments:
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities
 
18,759

 

 
18,759

 

Corporate bonds and notes
 
11,347

 
11,347

 

 

Mutual funds—bonds
 
40,568

 
11,936

 
28,632

 

Other—mutual funds
 
21,700

 
21,700

 

 

Cash and money market accounts
 
7,153

 
7,153

 

 

Total
 
$
233,350

 
$
151,981

 
$
81,369

 
$

The fair values of the Company's international pension plans' assets at December 31, 2014 by asset class are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Equity securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds—equities
 
$
292,150

 
$

 
$
292,150

 
$

Fixed income investments:
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds—bonds
 
350,073

 

 
350,073

 

Insurance contracts
 
8,233

 

 
8,233

 

Other:
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Real estate funds/limited partnerships
 
53,926

 

 
31,279

 
22,647

Other mutual funds
 
84,120

 

 
84,120

 

Cash and money market accounts
 
2,543

 
2,543

 

 

Total
 
$
791,045

 
$
2,543

 
$
765,855

 
$
22,647

The fair values of the Company's U.S. pension plans' assets at December 31, 2013 by asset class are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Domestic equities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Common stocks
 
$
48,915

 
$
48,915

 
$

 
$

Mutual funds—equities
 
48,807

 
13,204

 
35,603

 

International equities—mutual funds
 
45,475

 
45,475

 

 

Fixed income investments:
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. Treasuries and collateralized securities
 
18,787

 

 
18,787

 

Corporate bonds and notes
 
8,374

 
8,374

 

 

Mutual funds—bonds
 
33,326

 
33,326

 

 

Other—mutual funds
 
22,508

 
22,508

 

 

Cash and money market accounts
 
7,387

 
7,387

 

 

Total
 
$
233,579

 
$
179,189

 
$
54,390

 
$







74


The fair values of the Company's international pension plans' assets at December 31, 2013 by asset class are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
Total
 
Level 1
 
Level 2
 
Level 3
Equity securities:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds—equities
 
$
296,980

 
$

 
$
296,980

 
$

Fixed income investments:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Mutual funds—bonds
 
314,965

 

 
314,965

 

Insurance contracts
 
8,797

 

 
8,797

 

Other:
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Real estate funds / limited partnerships
 
52,733

 

 
32,310

 
20,423

Other mutual funds
 
94,980

 

 
94,980

 

Cash and money market accounts
 
2,456

 
2,456

 

 

Total
 
$
770,911

 
$
2,456

 
$
748,032

 
$
20,423

The following table summarizes changes in the fair value of Level 3 assets for 2014, 2013 and 2012:
Level 3 Asset Changes for the Twelve Months Ended December 31
 
 
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Real Estate Limited Partnership:
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of year
 
$
20,423

 
$
17,746

 
$
12,025

Contributions to partnership
 
385

 
838

 
2,535

Cash distributions received
 
(1,614
)
 
(1,380
)
 
(1,270
)
Actual return on plan assets:
 
 
 
 
 
 
  Related to asset still held at end of year
 
3,453

 
3,219

 
4,456

Balance at end of year
 
$
22,647

 
$
20,423

 
$
17,746

Following is a description of the valuation methodologies used for the plans' investments measured at fair value:
Level 1 Fair Value Measurements—Investments in interest-bearing cash are stated at cost, which approximates fair value. The fair values of money market accounts and certain mutual funds are based on quoted net asset values of the shares held by the plan at year-end. The fair values of domestic and international stocks and corporate bonds, notes and convertible debentures are valued at the closing price reported in the active market on which the individual securities are traded.
Level 2 Fair Value Measurements—The fair values of investments in mutual funds for which quoted net asset values in an active market are not available are valued by the investment advisor based on the current market values of the underlying assets of the mutual fund based on information reported by the investment consistent with audited financial statements of the mutual fund. Further information concerning these mutual funds may be obtained from their separate audited financial statements. Investments in U.S. Treasury notes and collateralized securities are valued based on yields currently available on comparable securities of issuers with similar credit ratings.
Level 3 Fair Value Measurements—Real estate limited partnership interests are valued by the general partners based on the underlying assets. The limited partnership interests are valued using unobservable inputs and have been classified within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Multiemployer Plans
The Company contributes to numerous multiemployer pension plans under the terms of collective-bargaining agreements that cover union-represented employees, many of whom are temporary in nature. The risks of participating in multiemployer pension plans differ from traditional company-sponsored defined benefit plans as follows:

Assets contributed to a multiemployer pension plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to the employees of other participating employers;
When a participating employer stops contributing to a multiemployer pension plan, the unfunded obligations of the plan become the responsibility of the remaining participating employers, subject to any exemptions that may apply; and
If the Company elects to stop participation in a multiemployer pension plan, the Company may be required to pay a withdraw liability which is based upon the underfunded status of the plan.



75


The Company's participation in multiemployer pension plans for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 is outlined below. The Company considers significant plans to be those plans to which the Company contributed more than 5% of total contributions to the plan in a given plan year or for which the Company believes the Company's share of the unfunded liability for the plan may be material to the Company.
(In thousands)
 
 
 
Pension Protection
Act Zone Status For
Plan Years Ended
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Contributions By The Company
For Years Ended (a)
 
 
 
 
 
Expiration
Date of
Collective-
Bargaining
Agreement
 
 
 
Subject to
Financial
Improvement
Plan
 
 
 
 
Identification
Number
 
Surcharge
Imposed
 
Pension Fund
2013
 
2012
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
 
Significant multiemployer plans for which plan financial information is not publicly available outside the Company's financial statements:
New Zealand Steel Pension Fund
018-054-531
 
N/A
 
N/A
 
$
838

 
$
886

 
$
909

 
Yes
 
No
 
2016
Summary aggregate information for multiemployer plans which are not individually significant:
All other multiemployer plans (b)
 
 
 
 
 
 
2,123

 
17,007

 
14,905

 
 
 
 
 
 
Total Contributions
 
$
2,961

 
$
17,893

 
$
15,814

 
 
 
 
 
 
(a)
These amounts represent either contributions for the plan year as confirmed by plan sponsors or the Company's estimates based on fiscal year accounts payable records which will be updated as confirmation is received from plan sponsors.
(b)
The decrease in contributions by the Company for 2014 primarily relates to the consummation of the Infrastructure Transaction. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information related to the Infrastructure Transaction.
For plan years ended 2014 and 2013, the Company contributed more than 5% of the total contributions to the New Zealand Steel Pension Fund. The New Zealand Steel Pension Fund is a defined benefit superannuation scheme registered in New Zealand under the Superannuation Schemes Act of 1989 to provide retirement benefits to the salaried employees of the New Zealand Steel United Group of companies. The New Zealand Steel Pension Fund financial statements for the years ended June 30, 2014 and 2013 indicated total assets of $345.4 million and $276.1 million, respectively; total actuarial present value of accumulated plan benefits of $358.7 million and $302.4 million, respectively; and total contributions for all participating employers of $13.5 million and $13.3 million, respectively.

11. Income Taxes
Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations consists of the following:
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
United States
 
$
20,168

 
$
(26,855
)
 
$
40,411

International
 
(11,846
)
 
(156,477
)
 
(258,906
)
Total income (loss) before income taxes and equity income (loss)
 
$
8,322

 
$
(183,332
)
 
$
(218,495
)
Income tax expense as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations consists of the following:
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Income tax expense (benefit):
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currently payable:
 
 
 
 
 
 
U.S. federal
 
$
4,495

 
$
10,949

 
$
22,603

U.S. state
 
557

 
1,375

 
1,561

International
 
14,569

 
41,015

 
21,795

Total income taxes currently payable
 
19,621

 
53,339

 
45,959

Deferred U.S. federal
 
2,503

 
(17,341
)
 
(3,831
)
Deferred U.S. state
 
807

 
401

 
(843
)
Deferred international
 
4,240

 
(1,487
)
 
(6,034
)
Total income tax expense
 
$
27,171

 
$
34,912

 
$
35,251

Cash payments for income taxes, including taxes on the gain or loss from discontinued business, were $36.0 million, $44.4 million and $42.6 million for 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.



76


The following is a reconciliation of the normal expected statutory U.S. federal income tax rate to the effective income tax rate as a percentage of Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income (loss) as reported in the Consolidated Statements of Operations:
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
U.S. federal income tax
 
$
2,913

 
$
(64,166
)
 
$
(76,473
)
U.S. state income taxes, net of federal income tax benefit
 
658

 
(851
)
 
290

U.S. domestic manufacturing deductions and credits
 
(1,882
)
 
(4,700
)
 
(3,580
)
Tax costs of repatriation from the Infrastructure Transaction
 

 
13,181

 

Difference in effective tax rates on international earnings and remittances
 
4,420

 
(308
)
 
1,532

Uncertain tax position contingencies and settlements
 
(5,298
)
 
(5,548
)
 
(5,470
)
Changes in realization on beginning of the year deferred tax assets
 
2,203

 
20,125

 
3,980

Restructuring and impairment charges with no realizable tax benefits
 
22,049

 

 
21,387

U.S. nondeductible items
 
1,216

 
2,953

 
1,470

Loss from disposal from the Infrastructure Transaction
 
1,465

 
74,946

 

Non-deductible goodwill impairment
 

 

 
92,763

Cumulative effect of change in statutory tax rates/laws
 
246

 
(483
)
 
(260
)
Loss from unconsolidated entities
 
(587
)
 

 

Other, net
 
(232
)
 
(237
)
 
(388
)
Total income tax expense
 
$
27,171

 
$
34,912

 
$
35,251


At December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company's annual effective income tax rate on income from continuing operations was 326.5%, (19.0)% and (16.1)%, respectively.

The effective income tax rate changed between 2013 and 2014 primarily due to the jurisdictional mix of the $271.3 million loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and for the tax costs of repatriation from the Infrastructure Transaction recorded in 2013 compared with the restructuring and asset impairment charges recorded in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment for which no tax benefit was recorded in 2014.
The effective income tax rate changed between 2013 and 2012 primarily due to the jurisdictional mix of the $271.3 million loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment recorded in 2013 compared with the $265.0 million non-deductible goodwill impairment charges recorded during 2012, tax expense recorded for valuation allowances on deferred tax assets within certain foreign jurisdictions that the Harsco Infrastructure Segment operated, and for the tax costs of repatriation from the Infrastructure Transaction.
The tax effects of the temporary differences giving rise to the Company's deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
 
2014
 
2013
(In thousands)
 
Asset
 
Liability
 
Asset
 
Liability
Depreciation and amortization
 
$

 
$
16,026

 
$

 
$
24,585

Expense accruals
 
27,657

 

 
28,550

 

Inventories
 
5,009

 

 
3,592

 

Provision for receivables
 
798

 

 
752

 

Deferred revenue
 

 
1,708

 

 
1,764

Operating loss carryforwards
 
75,635

 

 
75,443

 

Foreign tax credit carryforwards
 
16,476

 

 
16,085

 

Capital loss carryforwards
 
2,102

 

 
3,177

 

Pensions
 
86,995

 

 
81,564

 

Currency adjustments
 
35,386

 

 
27,536

 

Equity investment in Infrastructure strategic venture
 

 
23,885

 

 
28,965

Unit adjustment liability
 
34,675

 

 
39,335

 

Post-retirement benefits
 
905

 

 
1,013

 

Other
 
9,079

 

 
6,159

 

Subtotal
 
294,717

 
41,619

 
283,206

 
55,314

Valuation allowance
 
(131,342
)
 

 
(127,164
)
 

Total deferred income taxes
 
$
163,375

 
$
41,619

 
$
156,042

 
$
55,314



77


The deferred tax asset and liability balances recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
Other current assets
 
$
39,003

 
$
44,315

Other assets
 
90,252

 
65,105

Other current liabilities
 
1,120

 
475

Deferred income taxes
 
6,379

 
8,217

At December 31, 2014, the tax-effected amount of net operating loss carryforwards ("NOLs") totaled $75.6 million. Tax-effected NOLs from international operations are $66.4 million. Of that amount, $44.8 million can be carried forward indefinitely, and $21.6 million will expire at various times between 2015 and 2033. Tax-effected U.S. state NOLs are $9.2 million. Of that amount, $0.4 million expire at various times between 2015 and 2018, $3.9 million expire at various times between 2019 and 2023, $1.5 million expire at various times between 2024 and 2028, and $3.4 million expire at various times between 2029 and 2033. At December 31, 2014, the tax-effected amount of capital loss carryforwards totaled $2.1 million which expire in 2018.
The valuation allowances of $131.3 million and $127.2 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively, related principally to deferred tax assets for pension liabilities, NOLs, capital losses, currency translation and foreign investment tax credits that are uncertain as to realizability. In 2014, the Company recorded a net increase in the valuation allowance of $8.0 million related to current year pension adjustments recorded through Accumulated other comprehensive loss and a net increase of $6.5 million related to losses in certain jurisdictions where the Company determined that it is more likely than not that these assets will not be realized. This was offset by a $9.3 million reduction in valuation allowance from the effects of currency translation and a reduction of $1.1 million related to usage of a capital loss carryforward. Additionally, in 2013, the Company recorded a net increase in the valuation allowance of $9.4 million related to the Infrastructure Transaction and $7.1 million related to losses in certain jurisdictions where the Company determined that it is more likely than not that these assets will not be realized. This was offset by a $15.8 million reduction in valuation allowance related to U.K. pension adjustments recorded during the year through Accumulated other comprehensive loss and the effects of currency translation.
The Company has not provided U.S. income taxes on certain non-U.S. subsidiaries' undistributed earnings as such amounts are indefinitely reinvested outside the United States. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, such earnings were approximately $705 million and $815 million, respectively. If these earnings were repatriated at December 31, 2014, the one-time tax cost associated with the repatriation would be approximately $124 million.
The Company had a tax holiday in Asia that expired in 2012, which had no impact on income tax expense for that year. The Company no longer has tax holidays in Europe and the Middle East as they have all expired.
The Company recognizes accrued interest and penalty expense related to unrecognized income tax benefits in income tax expense. During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recognized an income tax benefit of $2.1 million, $3.1 million and $1.8 million, respectively, for interest and penalties primarily due to the expiration of statutes of limitation and resolution of examinations. The Company has accrued $2.8 million, $4.9 million and $8.0 million for the payment of interest and penalties at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 respectively.












78


A reconciliation of the change in the unrecognized income tax benefits balance from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2014 is as follows:
(In thousands)
 
Unrecognized
Income Tax
Benefits
 
Deferred
Income Tax
Benefits
 
Unrecognized
Income Tax
Benefits, Net of
Deferred Income
Tax Benefits
Balances, January 1, 2012
 
$
33,408

 
$
(517
)
 
$
32,891

Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment)
 
584

 
(8
)
 
576

Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment)
 
37

 
2

 
39

Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years
 
(3,987
)
 

 
(3,987
)
Statutes of limitation expirations
 
(5,124
)
 
154

 
(4,970
)
Balance at December 31, 2012
 
24,918

 
(369
)
 
24,549

Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment)
 
500

 
(5
)
 
495

Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment)
 
145

 
(4
)
 
141

Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years
 
(3,050
)
 

 
(3,050
)
Statutes of limitation expirations
 
(3,348
)
 
180

 
(3,168
)
Settlements
 
(1,616
)
 

 
(1,616
)
Balance at December 31, 2013
 
17,549

 
(198
)
 
17,351

Additions for tax positions related to the current year (includes currency translation adjustment)
 
288

 
(2
)
 
286

Additions for tax positions related to prior years (includes currency translation adjustment)
 
156

 
(55
)
 
101

Other reductions for tax positions related to prior years
 
(3,056
)
 

 
(3,056
)
Statutes of limitation expirations
 
(2,481
)
 
143

 
(2,338
)
Settlements
 

 

 

Total unrecognized income tax benefits that, if recognized, would impact the effective income tax rate at December 31, 2014
 
$
12,456

 
$
(112
)
 
$
12,344

Included in the other reductions for tax positions related to prior years for 2014 is $3.1 million of previously unrecognized tax benefits of which $1.6 million relates to currency translation adjustments and $1.5 million was recognized as a result of closure of various foreign income tax examinations. These benefits were previously deemed to not meet the more likely than not standard.
Within the next twelve months, it is reasonably possible that up to $0.2 million of unrecognized income tax benefits will be recognized upon settlement of tax examinations and the expiration of various statutes of limitations.
The Company files income tax returns as prescribed by the tax laws of the jurisdictions in which it operates. With few exceptions, the Company is no longer subject to U.S and international income tax examinations by tax authorities through 2008.
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service completed its audit of the Company's 2010 income tax return in July 2014 and made no changes to the reported tax. 









79


12. Commitments and Contingencies
Environmental
The Company is involved in a number of environmental remediation investigations and cleanups and, along with other companies, has been identified as a "potentially responsible party" for certain waste disposal sites. While each of these matters is subject to various uncertainties, it is probable that the Company will agree to make payments toward funding certain of these activities and it is possible that some of these matters will be decided unfavorably to the Company. The Company has evaluated its potential liability, and its financial exposure is dependent upon such factors as the continuing evolution of environmental laws and regulatory requirements, the availability and application of technology, the allocation of cost among potentially responsible parties, the years of remedial activity required and the remediation methods selected. The Consolidated Balance Sheets at both December 31, 2014 and 2013 include accruals in Other current liabilities of $1.2 million for environmental matters. The amounts charged against pre-tax income related to environmental matters totaled $1.9 million, $1.7 million and $1.2 million in 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively.
The Company evaluates its liability for future environmental remediation costs on a quarterly basis. Although actual costs to be incurred at identified sites in future periods may vary from the estimates (given inherent uncertainties in evaluating environmental exposures), the Company does not expect that any costs that are reasonably possible to be incurred by the Company in connection with environmental matters in excess of the amounts accrued would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
Brazilian Tax Disputes
The Company is involved in a number of tax disputes with federal, state and municipal tax authorities in Brazil. These disputes are at various stages of the legal process, including the administrative review phase and the collection action phase, and include assessments of fixed amounts of principal and penalties, plus interest charges that increase at statutorily determined amounts per month and are assessed on the aggregate amount of the principal and penalties. In addition, the losing party at the collection action or court of appeals phase could be subject to a charge to cover statutorily mandated legal fees, which are generally calculated as a percentage of the total assessed amounts due, inclusive of penalty and interest. A large number of the claims relate to value-added ("ICMS"), services and social security ("INSS") tax disputes. The largest proportion of the assessed amounts relate to ICMS claims filed by the State Revenue Authorities from the State of São Paulo, Brazil (the "SPRA"), encompassing the period from January 2002 to May 2005.
In October 2009, the Company received notification of the SPRA's final administrative decision regarding the levying of ICMS in the State of São Paulo in relation to services provided to a customer in the State between January 2004 and May 2005. As of December 31, 2014, the principal amount of the tax assessment from the SPRA with regard to this case is approximately $2 million, with penalty, interest and fees assessed to date increasing such amount by an additional $25 million. Any change in the aggregate amount since the Company's last Annual Report on Form 10-K is due to an increase in assessed interest and statutorily mandated legal fees for the year, as well as foreign currency translation.
Another ICMS tax case involving the SPRA refers to the tax period from January 2002 to December 2003, and is still pending at the administrative phase, where the aggregate amount assessed by the tax authorities in August 2005 was $9.5 million (the amounts with regard to this claim are valued as of the date of the assessment since it has not yet reached the collection phase), composed of a principal amount of $2.3 million, with penalty and interest assessed through that date increasing such amount by an additional $7.2 million. All such amounts include the effect of foreign currency translation.
The Company continues to believe that it is not probable it will incur a loss for these assessments by the SPRA. The Company also continues to believe that sufficient coverage for these claims exists as a result of the Company's customer's indemnification obligations and such customer's pledge of assets in connection with the October 2009 notice, as required by Brazilian procedure.
The Company intends to continue its practice of vigorously defending itself against these tax claims under various alternatives, including judicial appeal. The Company will continue to evaluate its potential liability with regard to these claims on a quarterly basis; however, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of these tax-related disputes in Brazil. No loss provision has been recorded in the Company's consolidated financial statements for the disputes described above because the loss contingency is not deemed probable, and the Company does not expect that any costs that are reasonably possible to be incurred by the Company in connection with Brazilian tax disputes would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.





80


Brazilian Labor Disputes
The Company is subject to collective bargaining and individual labor claims in Brazil through the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment which allege, among other things, the Company's failure to pay required amounts for overtime and vacation at certain sites.  The Company does not believe these claims to have merit and is vigorously defending itself against these claims; however, litigation is inherently unpredictable, particularly in foreign jurisdictions.  While the Company does not currently expect that the ultimate resolution of these claims will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows, it is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of these labor-related disputes. 

The Company is continuing to review all known labor claims and as of December 31, 2014 and 2013, the Company has established reserves of $8.6 million and $3.1 million, respectively, on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets for amounts considered to be probable and estimable. There can be no assurances that the Company will not conclude that it is necessary to increase the reserves relating to the claims, or take other actions as it continues to evaluate the potential liability with regard to these claims.

Customer Disputes
The Company, through its Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, provides services through long-term service contracts on a number of sites worldwide. As previously disclosed, a subcontractor at the site of a large customer has filed for arbitration against the Company, claiming that it is owed monetary damages from the Company in connection with its processing certain materials. The Company disputes that it is responsible for such alleged damages and intends to vigorously defend itself against this claim. In addition, the Company has impleaded its customer - which the Company believes has responsibility for any damages - into its arbitration with the subcontractor. The Company has concluded that a loss contingency is neither probable nor estimable and, therefore has not made any provision for any potential loss in its consolidated financial statements. Moreover, based on the information currently available to the Company, the Company does not expect that the ultimate resolution of this arbitration will have a material adverse effect on the Company’s financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

The Company, through its Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, may, in the normal of business, become involved in commercial disputes with other subcontractors or customers. Although results of operations and cash flows for a given period could be adversely affected by a negative outcome in these or other lawsuits, claims and proceedings, management believes that the ultimate outcome of these matters will not have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Other
The Company is named as one of many defendants (approximately 90 or more in most cases) in legal actions in the United States alleging personal injury from exposure to airborne asbestos over the past several decades. In their suits, the plaintiffs have named as defendants, among others, many manufacturers, distributors and installers of numerous types of equipment or products that allegedly contained asbestos.
The Company believes that the claims against it are without merit. The Company has never been a producer, manufacturer or processor of asbestos fibers. Any asbestos-containing part of a Company product used in the past was purchased from a supplier and the asbestos encapsulated in other materials such that airborne exposure, if it occurred, was not harmful and is not associated with the types of injuries alleged in the pending actions.
At December 31, 2014, there were 17,314 pending asbestos personal injury actions filed against the Company. Of those actions, 16,979 were filed in the New York Supreme Court (New York County), 115 were filed in other New York State Supreme Court Counties and 220 were filed in courts located in other states.
The complaints in most of those actions generally follow a form that contains a standard damages demand of $20 million or $25 million, regardless of the individual plaintiff's alleged medical condition, and without identifying any specific Company product.

At December 31, 2014, 16,816 of the actions filed in New York Supreme Court (New York County) were on the Deferred/Inactive Docket created by the court in December 2002 for all pending and future asbestos actions filed by persons who cannot demonstrate that they have a malignant condition or discernible physical impairment. The remaining 163 cases in New York County are pending on the Active or In Extremis Docket created for plaintiffs who can demonstrate a malignant condition or physical impairment.




81


The Company has liability insurance coverage under various primary and excess policies that the Company believes will be available, if necessary, to substantially cover any liability that might ultimately be incurred in the asbestos actions referred to above. The Company believes that a substantial portion of the costs and expenses of the asbestos actions will be paid by the Company’s insurers.
In view of the persistence of asbestos litigation in the United States, the Company expects to continue to receive additional claims in the future. The Company intends to continue its practice of vigorously defending these claims and cases. At December 31, 2014, the Company has obtained dismissal in 27,550 cases by stipulation or summary judgment prior to trial.
It is not possible to predict the ultimate outcome of asbestos-related actions in the United States due to the unpredictable nature of this litigation, and no loss provision has been recorded in the Company's consolidated financial statements because a loss contingency is not deemed probable or estimable. Despite this uncertainty, and although results of operations and cash flows for a given period could be adversely affected by asbestos-related actions, the Company does not expect that any costs that are reasonably possible to be incurred by the Company in connection with asbestos litigation would have a material adverse effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.
The Company is subject to various other claims and legal proceedings covering a wide range of matters that arose in the ordinary course of business. In the opinion of management, all such matters are adequately covered by insurance or by established reserves, and, if not so covered, are without merit or are of such kind, or involve such amounts, as would not have a material adverse effect on the financial position, results of operations or cash flows of the Company.
Insurance liabilities are recorded when it is probable that a liability has been incurred for a particular event and the amount of loss associated with the event can be reasonably estimated. Insurance reserves have been estimated based primarily upon actuarial calculations and reflect the undiscounted estimated liabilities for ultimate losses, including claims incurred but not reported. Inherent in these estimates are assumptions that are based on the Company's history of claims and losses, a detailed analysis of existing claims with respect to potential value, and current legal and legislative trends. If actual claims differ from those projected by management, changes (either increases or decreases) to insurance reserves may be required and would be recorded through income in the period the change was determined. When a recognized liability is covered by third-party insurance, the Company records an insurance claim receivable to reflect the covered liability. Insurance claim receivables are included in Other receivables on the Company's Consolidated Balance Sheets. See Note 1, Summary of Significant Accounting Policies, for additional information on Accrued Insurance and Loss Reserves.

13. Capital Stock
The authorized capital stock of the Company consists of 150,000,000 shares of common stock and 4,000,000 shares of preferred stock, both having a par value of $1.25 per share. The preferred stock is issuable in series with terms as fixed by the Board of Directors (the "Board"). No preferred stock has been issued. Under the Company's Preferred Stock Purchase Rights Agreement (the "Agreement"), the Board authorized and declared a dividend distribution of one right for each share of common stock outstanding on the record date. The rights may only be exercised if, among other things and with certain exceptions, a person or group has acquired 15% or more of the Company's common stock without the prior approval of the Board. Each right entitles the holder to purchase 1/100th share of Harsco Series A Junior Participating Cumulative Preferred Stock at an exercise price of $230. Once the rights become exercisable, the holder of a right will be entitled, upon payment of the exercise price, to purchase a number of shares of common stock calculated to have a value of two times the exercise price of the right. The rights expire on October 9, 2017, do not have voting power, and may be redeemed by the Company at a price of $0.001 per right at any time until the 10th business day following public announcement that a person or group has accumulated 15% or more of the Company's common stock. The Agreement also includes an exchange feature. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, 806,599 and 806,789 shares, respectively, of $1.25 par value preferred stock were reserved for issuance upon exercise of the rights.







82


The Board has authorized the repurchase of shares of common stock as follows:
 
 
Shares Authorized
to be Purchased
January 1
 
Additional Shares
Authorized for
Purchase
 
Shares
Purchased
 
Remaining Shares
Authorized for
Purchase
December 31
2012
 
1,713,423

 

 

 
1,713,423

2013
 
1,713,423

 
286,577

 

 
2,000,000

2014
 
2,000,000

 

 
150,000

 
1,850,000

At December 31, 2014, 1,850,000 shares remained available for repurchase under the Company's share repurchase program. Subsequent to December 31, 2014, the Company repurchased an additional 596,632 shares. The Company's share repurchase program expired on January 31, 2015.
The following table summarizes the Company's common stock:
 
 
Common Stock
 
 
Shares
Issued
 
Treasury
Shares (a)
 
Outstanding
Shares
Outstanding, January 1, 2012
 
111,931,267

 
31,454,097

 
80,477,170

Stock options exercised
 
38,900

 

 
38,900

Vested restricted stock units
 
45,898

 
14,677

 
31,221

Other stock grants
 
47,873

 
10,536

 
37,337

Outstanding, December 31, 2012
 
112,063,938

 
31,479,310

 
80,584,628

Stock options exercised
 
20,000

 

 
20,000

Vested restricted stock units
 
25,215

 
9,358

 
15,857

Stock appreciation rights exercised
 
2,713

 
521

 
2,192

Other stock grants
 
86,827

 
30,579

 
56,248

Outstanding, December 31, 2013
 
112,198,693

 
31,519,768

 
80,678,925

Vested restricted stock units
 
65,851

 
4,418

 
61,433

Stock appreciation rights exercised
 
9,213

 
2,985

 
6,228

Other stock grants
 
83,591

 
20,327

 
63,264

Treasury shares purchased
 

 
150,000

 
(150,000
)
Outstanding, December 31, 2014
 
112,357,348

 
31,697,498

 
80,659,850

(a) The Company repurchases shares in connection with the issuance of shares under stock-based compensation programs.
The following is a reconciliation of the average shares of common stock used to compute basic earnings per common share to the shares used to compute diluted earnings per common share as shown in the Consolidated Statements of Operations:
(In thousands, except per share data)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Loss from continuing operations attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
(24,902
)
 
$
(226,449
)
 
$
(253,693
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted-average shares outstanding—basic
 
80,884

 
80,755

 
80,632

Dilutive effect of stock-based compensation
 

 

 

Weighted-average shares outstanding—diluted
 
80,884

 
80,755

 
80,632

Loss from continuing operations per common share, attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Basic
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.80
)
 
$
(3.15
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted
 
$
(0.31
)
 
$
(2.80
)
 
$
(3.15
)
The following average outstanding stock-based compensation units were not included in the computation of diluted earnings per share because the effect was antidilutive:
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Restricted stock units
 
301

 
265

 
148

Stock options
 
188

 
286

 
389

Stock appreciation rights
 
912

 
1,078

 
530

Performance share units
 
93

 

 

Other stock-based compensation units
 

 
101

 
317



83


14. Stock-Based Compensation
The 2013 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan (the "2013 Plan") authorizes the issuance of up to 6,800,000 shares of the Company's common stock for use in paying incentive compensation awards in the form of stock options or other equity awards such as restricted stock, restricted stock units ("RSUs"), stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), or performance share units ("PSUs"). Of the 6,800,000 shares authorized, a maximum of 3,400,000 shares may be issued for awards other than option rights or SARs, as defined in the 2013 Plan. The 1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan (the "1995 Plan") authorizes the issuance of up to 600,000 shares of the Company's common stock for equity awards. Both plans have been approved by the Company's stockholders. At December 31, 2014, there were 5,616,343 shares available for granting equity awards under the 2013 Plan, of which 3,013,373 shares were available for awards other than option rights or SARs. At December 31, 2014, there were 107,063 shares available for granting equity awards under the 1995 Plan.
Restricted Stock Units
The Company's Board approves the granting of performance-based RSUs as the long-term equity component of director, officer and certain key employee compensation. The RSUs require no payment from the recipient and compensation cost is measured based on the market price of the Company's common stock on the grant date and is generally recorded over the vesting period. The vesting period for RSUs granted to non-employee directors is one year, and each RSU is exchanged for an equal number of shares of the Company's common stock following the termination of the participant's service as a director. RSUs granted to officers and certain key employees in 2012, and prior, either vest on a pro rata basis over a three-year period or upon obtainment of the specified retirement age of 62. RSUs granted to officers and certain key employees in 2013, either "cliff" vest at the end of three years or upon obtainment of the specified retirement age of 62. RSUs granted to officers and certain key employees in 2014, either "cliff" vest at the end of three years, upon obtainment of the specified retirement age of 62 or upon meeting certain years of service criteria. Upon vesting, each RSU is exchanged for an equal number of shares of the Company's common stock. RSUs do not have an option for cash payment.
The following table summarizes RSUs issued and the compensation expense recorded for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012:
 
 
RSUs
 
Weighted Average Fair Value
 
Expense
(Dollars in thousands, except per unit)
 
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Directors:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2011
 
20,192

 
$
34.79

 
$

 
$

 
$
234

2012
 
30,618

 
$
21.44

 

 
255

 
402

2013
 
46,287

 
$
20.60

 
318

 
636

 

2014
 
36,840

 
$
24.80

 
602

 

 

Employees:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
2009
 
121,625

 
$
25.98

 

 

 
43

2010
 
26,000

 
$
23.78

 

 

 
21

2011
 
17,250

 
$
23.55

 
3

 
69

 
195

2012
 
141,486

 
$
18.75

 
151

 
383

 
525

2013
 
170,582

 
$
20.63

 
325

 
633

 

2014
 
190,832

 
$
25.21

 
1,114

 

 

Total
 
 

 
 

 
$
2,513

 
$
1,976

 
$
1,420


84


Restricted stock unit activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
 
 
RSUs
 
 
Number of Shares
 
Weighted Average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
Non-vested at January 1, 2012
 
62,641

 
$
25.39

Granted
 
172,104

 
$
19.23

Vested
 
(67,861
)
 
$
24.86

Forfeited
 
(25,411
)
 
$
20.35

Non-vested at December 31, 2012
 
141,473

 
$
19.19

Granted
 
216,869

 
$
20.62

Vested
 
(69,955
)
 
$
20.54

Forfeited
 
(74,546
)
 
$
22.61

Non-vested at December 31, 2013
 
213,841

 
$
19.95

Granted
 
227,672

 
$
25.14

Vested
 
(52,041
)
 
$
23.58

Forfeited
 
(84,956
)
 
$
20.92

Non-vested at December 31, 2014
 
304,516

 
$
22.94

At December 31, 2014, the total unrecognized compensation cost related to non-vested RSUs was $4.0 million, which will be recognized over a weighted-average period of 2.1 years.
There was no change in excess tax benefits from RSUs recognized in 2014 and 2012. There was a $0.1 million increase of excess tax benefits in 2013.
Stock Appreciation Rights
The Company may grant SARs to officers and certain key employees under the 2013 Plan.  The SARs generally vest on a pro-rata basis from one to five years from the grant date or upon certain retirement age and years of service criteria, and expire no later than ten years after the grant date, and the specified retirement age is 62.  The exercise price of the SARs is the fair value on the grant date.  Upon exercise, shares of Company's common stock are issued based on the increase in the fair value of the Company's common stock over the exercise price of the SAR.  SARs do not have an option for cash payment.

During 2012, the Company issued SARs covering 318,452 shares in March, 345,502 shares in May and 43,058 shares in September under the 1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan to officers and key executive employees. During 2013, the Company issued SARs covering 903,814 shares in May, 5,018 shares in June and 15,000 shares in November under the 2013 Plan. During 2014, the Company issued SARs covering 51,900 shares in April, 255,090 shares in May, 31,405 shares in July, 84,290 shares in August, 15,808 shares in September and 12,401 shares in November under the 2013 Plan.
The fair value of each SAR grant was estimated on the grant date using a Black-Scholes pricing model with the following assumptions:
 
 
SARs Issued
 
 
Risk-free Interest rate
 
Dividend Yield
 
Expected Life (Years)
 
Volatility
 
SAR Grant Price
 
Fair Value of SAR
March 2012 Grant
 
1.56
%
 
3.50
%
 
6.5
 
43.9
%
 
$
23.73

 
$
6.10

May 2012 Grant
 
1.18
%
 
4.20
%
 
6.5
 
44.0
%
 
$
19.65

 
$
4.77

September 2012 Grant
 
1.00
%
 
3.80
%
 
6.5
 
44.3
%
 
$
21.37

 
$
6.20

May 2013 Grant
 
1.17
%
 
3.61
%
 
6.5
 
44.1
%
 
$
22.70

 
$
6.86

June 2013 Grant
 
1.41
%
 
3.56
%
 
6.5
 
44.1
%
 
$
23.03

 
$
7.07

November 2013 Grant
 
1.91
%
 
3.13
%
 
6.5
 
43.8
%
 
$
26.22

 
$
8.60

April 2014 Grant
 
1.98
%
 
3.53
%
 
6.0
 
44.3
%
 
$
23.25

 
$
7.25

May 2014 Grant (1st)
 
1.90
%
 
3.16
%
 
6.0
 
43.2
%
 
$
25.93

 
$
8.16

May 2014 Grant (2nd)
 
1.82
%
 
3.05
%
 
6.0
 
42.8
%
 
$
26.92

 
$
8.47

July 2014 Grant
 
2.00
%
 
3.24
%
 
6.0
 
41.2
%
 
$
25.27

 
$
7.55

August 2014 Grant
 
1.92
%
 
3.27
%
 
6.0
 
41.2
%
 
$
25.11

 
$
7.46

September 2014 Grant
 
2.03
%
 
3.50
%
 
6.0
 
40.6
%
 
$
23.43

 
$
6.72

November 2014 Grant
 
1.78
%
 
4.00
%
 
6.0
 
38.6
%
 
$
20.48

 
$
5.17



85


SARs activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
 
 
SARs
 
 
Number of Shares
 
Weighted Average Exercise Price
 
Aggregate Intrinsic Value (in millions) (a)
Outstanding, January 1, 2012
 

 
$

 
$

Granted
 
707,012

 
$
21.23

 
 
Forfeited/Expired
 
(181,725
)
 
$
21.23

 
 
Outstanding, December 31, 2012
 
525,287

 
$
21.23

 
$
1.2

Granted
 
923,832

 
$
22.76

 
 
Exercised
 
(11,037
)
 
$
19.65

 
 
Forfeited/Expired
 
(476,624
)
 
$
22.28

 
 
Outstanding, December 31, 2013
 
961,458

 
$
22.20

 
$
5.6

Granted
 
450,894

 
$
25.20

 
 
Exercised
 
(52,667
)
 
$
20.21

 
 
Forfeited/Expired
 
(406,637
)
 
$
22.65

 
 
Outstanding, December 31, 2014
 
953,048

 
$
23.53

 
$

(a) Intrinsic value is defined as the difference between the current market value and the exercise price, for those SARs where the market price exceeds the exercise price.
The total intrinsic value of SARs exercised during 2014 and 2013 was $0.2 million and $0.1 million. No SARs were exercised in 2012.
The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable SARs at December 31, 2014:
 
 
SARs Outstanding
 
SARs Exercisable
Range of exercisable prices
 
Vested
 
Non-vested
 
Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share
 
Weighted-Average Remaining Contractual Life in Years
 
Number Exercisable
 
Weighted-Average Exercise Price per Share
$19.65 - $23.43
 
147,540

 
381,180

 
$
22.11

 
8.3
 
147,540

 
$
21.61

$23.73 - $26.92
 
59,098

 
365,230

 
$
25.31

 
9.0
 
59,098

 
$
24.04

 
 
206,638

 
746,410

 
$
23.53

 
8.6
 
206,638

 
$
22.30

At December 31, 2014, outstanding SARs, substantially all of which are expected to vest, have a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 8.6 years and no intrinsic value as the exercise price for all SARs exceeds the current market value. Vested and currently exercisable SARs have a weighted-average remaining contractual life of 7.8 years and no aggregate intrinsic value.
At December 31, 2014, total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested SARs was $3.8 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.7 years.
Weighted-average grant date fair value of non-vested SARs for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
 
 
SARs
 
 
Number of Shares
 
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested shares, January 1, 2013
 
525,287

 
$
21.23

Granted
 
923,832

 
$
22.76

Vested
 
(121,953
)
 
$
21.65

Exercised
 
(11,037
)
 
$
19.65

Forfeited
 
(476,624
)
 
$
22.28

Non-vested shares, December 31, 2013
 
839,505

 
$
22.27

Granted
 
450,894

 
$
25.20

Vested
 
(84,685
)
 
$
23.23

Exercised
 
(52,667
)
 
$
20.21

Forfeited
 
(406,637
)
 
$
22.65

Non-vested shares, December 31, 2014
 
746,410

 
$
23.87




86


Performance Stock Units
Beginning in 2014, the Company granted PSUs to officers and certain key employees that may be earned based on the Company's total shareholder return over the three-year performance period beginning January 1, 2014 (the "performance period"). PSUs are paid out at the end of the performance period based on the Company’s performance which is measured by determining the percentile rank of the total shareholder return of the Company's common stock in relation to the total shareholder return of the S&P Midcap 400 Industrial Group during the performance period. The payment of PSUs following the performance period will be based in accordance with the scale set forth in the PSU agreements and may range from 0% to 200% of the initial grant. During the year ended December 31, 2014, the Company granted 15,700 shares in April, 82,526 shares in May, 11,487 shares in July, 26,550 shares in August, 4,980 shares in September and 3,906 shares in November under the 2013 Plan.
The fair value of PSUs granted was estimated on the grant date using a Monte Carlo pricing model with the following assumptions:
 
 
PSUs Issued
 
 
Risk-free Interest rate
 
Dividend Yield
 
Expected Life (Years)
 
Volatility
 
Fair Value of PSU
April 2014 Grant
 
0.75
%
 
%
 
2.73
 
34.3
%
 
$
18.00

May 2014 Grant (1st)
 
0.70
%
 
%
 
2.65
 
31.8
%
 
$
25.26

May 2014 Grant (2nd)
 
0.63
%
 
%
 
2.61
 
30.1
%
 
$
27.53

July 2014 Grant
 
0.74
%
 
%
 
2.42
 
26.9
%
 
$
22.31

August 2014 Grant
 
0.67
%
 
%
 
2.42
 
26.9
%
 
$
21.86

September 2014 Grant
 
0.72
%
 
%
 
2.29
 
25.7
%
 
$
15.26

November 2014 Grant
 
0.55
%
 
%
 
2.10
 
26.3
%
 
$
7.42


Total compensation expense related to PSUs was $0.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2014. At December 31, 2014, total unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested PSUs was $2.0 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of 2.0 years.

A summary of the Company's non-vested PSU activity during the year ending December 31, 2014 is presented in the following table:
 
 
PSUs
 
 
Number of Shares
 
Weighted-Average Grant Date Fair Value
Non-vested shares, December 31, 2013
 

 
$

Granted
 
145,149

 
$
22.82

Vested
 
(1,784
)
 
$
27.53

Forfeited
 
(9,796
)
 
$
25.26

Non-vested shares, December 31, 2014
 
133,569

 
$
22.58





















87


Stock Options
The Company may grant incentive stock options and nonqualified stock options to officers, certain key employees and non-employee directors under the plans noted above. The stock options would generally vest three years from the grant date, which is the date the Board approved the grants, and expire no later than seven years after the grant date. The exercise price of the stock option would be fair value on the grant date. Upon exercise, a new share of Company common stock is issued for each stock option.
Stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
 
 
Stock Options
 
 
Number of Shares
 
Weighted Average
Exercise Price
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value
(in millions)(a)
Outstanding, January 1, 2012
 
661,840

 
$
30.22

 
$
0.2

Exercised
 
(38,900
)
 
$
18.23

 

Forfeited/Expired
 
(294,940
)
 
$
31.29

 
$

Outstanding, December 31, 2012
 
328,000

 
$
30.67

 
$
0.2

Exercised
 
(20,000
)
 
$
16.96

 
$

Forfeited/Expired
 
(79,000
)
 
$
31.00

 
$

Outstanding, December 31, 2013
 
229,000

 
$
31.75

 
$

Forfeited/Expired
 
(107,500
)
 
$
31.75

 
$

Outstanding, December 31, 2014
 
121,500

 
$
31.75

 
$

(a)
Intrinsic value is defined as the difference between the current market value and the exercise price, for those options where the market price exceeds the exercise price.
Compensation expense related to stock options totaled less than $0.1 million in both 2014 and 2012. Compensation expense related to stock options was $0.2 million in 2013.
At December 31, 2014, there was no unrecognized compensation expense related to non-vested stock options.
There were no stock options exercised and no net cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options in 2014. Net cash proceeds from the exercise of stock options totaled $0.4 million and $0.7 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively. The total intrinsic value of options exercised during both 2013 and 2012 was $0.1 million.
The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and exercisable options at December 31, 2014:
 
 
Stock Options Outstanding
 
Stock Options Exercisable
Range of Exercisable Prices
 
Vested
 
Non-vested
 
Weighted Average
Exercise
Price Per
Share
 
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual
Life in
Years
 
Number
Exercisable
 
Weighted Average
Exercise
Price Per
Share
$31.75 - $31.75
 
121,500

 

 
$
31.75

 
3.1
 
121,500

 
$
31.75

Weighted-average grant-date fair value of non-vested stock options during the year ended December 31, 2014 was as follows:
 
 
Stock Options
 
 
Shares Under Option
 
Weighted Average Grant-Date Fair Value
Outstanding, January 1, 2014
 
149,000

 
$
10.90

Vested
 
(121,500
)
 
10.90

Forfeited
 
(27,500
)
 
10.90

Outstanding, December 31, 2014
 

 
$
10.90

Other Stock Grants
During 2014, the Company issued 27,672 common shares to the Interim Chief Executive Officer as part of his compensation agreement. These shares vested immediately and were not subject to any holding period restrictions. The fair value of these other stock grants were based on the market price of the Company's stock at the grant date. Expense recognized in 2014 for these other stock grants totaled $0.7 million.
In addition, 55,919 common shares were issued to other officers and key employees to settle previous fully-vested liability-based long-term incentive award programs.

88


15. Financial Instruments
Off-Balance Sheet Risk
As collateral for the Company's performance and to insurers, the Company is contingently liable under standby letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees in the amounts of $269.4 million, $216.3 million and $208.8 million at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The increase since December 31, 2014 primarily relates to the issuance of performance bonds associated with the Company's large Switzerland rail order in the Harsco Rail Segment. These standby letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees are generally in force for up to 5 years. Certain issues have no scheduled expiration date. The Company pays fees to various banks and insurance companies that range from 0.32% to 2.50% per annum of the instrument's face value. If the Company were required to obtain replacement standby letters of credit, bonds and bank guarantees at December 31, 2014 for those currently outstanding, it is the Company's opinion that the replacement costs would be within the present fee structure.
The Company has currency exposures in approximately 35 countries. The Company's primary foreign currency exposures during 2014 were in the European Economic and Monetary Union, the United Kingdom and Brazil.
Off-Balance Sheet Risk—Third-Party Guarantees
In connection with the Infrastructure Transaction, the Company has outstanding guarantees and letters of credit related to the Harsco Infrastructure Segment that are still in force. These guarantees and letters of credit are provided to enable the legacy business to obtain financing for their operations. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) related to these guarantees was approximately $15 million and $19 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. These guarantees and letters of credit are expected to be replaced by Brand during 2015. There is no recognition of a liability related to these guarantees or letters of credit as the Company believes that the potential for making any payments is remote and they have been indemnified by Brand as part of the Infrastructure Transaction.

During June 2014, the Company provided a guarantee to Brand, as part of the net working capital settlement related to the Infrastructure Transaction, for certain matters occurring prior to closing. The remaining term of this guarantee is 6 years at December 31, 2014. The maximum potential amount of future payments related to this guarantee is approximately $3 million at December 31, 2014. There is no recognition of this potential future payment in the consolidated financial statements as the Company believes the potential for making this payment is remote.
The Company provided an environmental indemnification for properties that were sold to a third party in 2007. The maximum term of this guarantee is 20 years, and the Company would be required to perform under the guarantee only if an environmental matter is discovered on the properties. The Company is not aware of environmental issues related to these properties. There is no recognition of this potential future payment in the consolidated financial statements as the Company believes the potential for making this payment is remote.
The Company provided an environmental indemnification for property from a lease that terminated in 2006. The term of this guarantee is indefinite, and the Company would be required to perform under the guarantee only if an environmental matter was discovered on the property relating to the time the Company leased the property. The Company is not aware of any environmental issues related to this property. The maximum potential amount of future payments (undiscounted) related to this guarantee is estimated to be $3.0 million at December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012. There is no recognition of this potential future payment in the consolidated financial statements as the Company believes the potential for making this payment is remote.
Any liabilities related to the Company's obligation to stand ready to act on third-party guarantees are included in the captions, Other current liabilities or Other liabilities (as appropriate), on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. Any recognition of these liabilities did not have a material impact on the Company's financial position or results of operations for 2014, 2013 or 2012.
In the normal course of business, legal indemnifications are provided related primarily to the performance of the Company's products and services and patent and trademark infringement of the products and services sold. These indemnifications generally relate to the performance (regarding function, not price) of the respective products or services and therefore no liability is recognized related to the fair value of such guarantees.










89


Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities
The Company uses derivative instruments, including foreign currency forward exchange contracts, commodity contracts and cross currency interest rate swaps, to manage certain foreign currency, commodity price and interest rate exposures. Derivative instruments are viewed as risk management tools by the Company and are not used for trading or speculative purposes.
All derivative instruments are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives used to hedge foreign currency denominated balance sheet items are reported directly in earnings along with offsetting transaction gains and losses on the items being hedged. Derivatives used to hedge forecasted cash flows associated with foreign currency commitments or forecasted commodity purchases may be accounted for as cash flow hedges, as deemed appropriate, if the criteria for hedge accounting are met. Gains and losses on derivatives designated as cash flow hedges are deferred as a separate component of equity and reclassified to earnings in a manner that matches the timing of the earnings impact of the hedged transactions. Generally, at December 31, 2014, these deferred gains and losses will be reclassified to earnings over 10 to 15 years from the balance sheet date. The ineffective portion of all hedges, if any, is recognized currently in earnings.
The fair value of outstanding derivative contracts recorded as assets and liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at December 31, 2014 and 2013 was as follows:
 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
(In thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
December 31, 2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
Other current assets
 
$
420

 

 
$

Cross currency interest rate swaps
 
Other assets
 
52,989

 
Other liabilities
 
2,599

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
 
 
 
$
53,409

 
 
 
$
2,599

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
Other current assets
 
$
4,065

 
Other current liabilities
 
$
4,618

 
 
Asset Derivatives
 
Liability Derivatives
(In thousands)
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
Fair Value
December 31, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
Other current assets
 
$
40

 
Other current liabilities
 
$
17

Cross currency interest rate swaps
 
Other assets
 
26,001

 
Other liabilities
 
13,410

Total derivatives designated as hedging instruments
 
 
 
$
26,041

 
 
 
$
13,427

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
Other current assets
 
$
1,216

 
Other current liabilities
 
$
3,267


All of the Company's derivatives are recorded in the Consolidated Balance Sheets at gross amounts and not offset. All of the Company's cross currency interest rate swaps and certain foreign currency forward exchange contracts are transacted under International Swaps and Derivatives Association ("ISDA") documentation. Each ISDA master agreement permits the net settlement of amounts owed in the event of default. The Company's derivative assets and liabilities subject to enforceable master netting arrangements did not result in a net or net liability at either December 31, 2014 or 2013.

90


The effect of derivative instruments in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) during 2014, 2013 and 2012 was as follows:
Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
(In thousands)
 
Amount of
Gain (Loss)
Recognized in
Other
Comprehensive
Income
("OCI") on
Derivative—Effective
Portion
 
Location of Gain
(Loss) Reclassified
from Accumulated
OCI into Income—Effective
Portion
Amount of
Gain (Loss)
Reclassified
from
Accumulated
OCI into
Income—Effective
Portion
 
Location of Gain
(Loss) Recognized
in Income on
Derivative—Ineffective Portion
and Amount
Excluded from
Effectiveness
Testing
Amount of
Gain (Loss)
Recognized
in Income
on Derivative—Ineffective
Portion and
Amount
Excluded
from Effectiveness
Testing
 
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2014:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
$
358

 
Cost of services and products sold
$
4

 

$

 
Cross currency interest rate swaps
 
(1,977
)
 
 

 
Cost of services and products sold
39,823

(a)
 
 
$
(1,619
)
 
 
$
4

 
 
$
39,823

 
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2013:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
$
48

 
Cost of services and products sold
$
(8
)
 
Cost of services and products sold
$
(6
)
 
Cross currency interest rate swaps
 
2,409

 
 

 
Cost of services and products sold
(12,061
)
(a)
 
 
$
2,457

 
 
$
(8
)
 
 
$
(12,067
)
 
Twelve Months Ended December 31, 2012:
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
$
(152
)
 
Cost of services and products sold
$
270

 
 
$

 
Cross currency interest rate swaps
 
(4,748
)
 
 

 
Cost of services and products sold
(13,384
)
(a)
 
 
$
(4,900
)
 
 
$
270

 
 
$
(13,384
)
 
(a)
These gains (losses) offset foreign currency fluctuation effects on the debt principal.

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
 
Location of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative
 
Amount of Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on Derivative for the Twelve Months Ended December 31(a)
(In thousands)
 
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
Cost of services and products sold
 
$
(2,307
)
 
$
(10,463
)
 
$
(3,529
)
(a)
These gains (losses) offset amounts recognized in cost of service and products sold principally as a result of intercompany or third-party foreign currency exposures.

Foreign Currency Forward Exchange Contracts
The Company conducts business in multiple currencies and, accordingly, is subject to the inherent risks associated with foreign exchange rate movements. The financial position and results of operations of substantially all of the Company's foreign subsidiaries are measured using the local currency as the functional currency. Foreign currency-denominated assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates existing at the respective balance sheet dates, and income and expense items are translated at the average exchange rates during the respective periods. The aggregate effects of translating the balance sheets of these subsidiaries are deferred and recorded in Accumulated other comprehensive loss, which is a separate component of equity.
The Company uses derivative instruments to hedge cash flows related to foreign currency fluctuations. Foreign currency forward exchange contracts outstanding are part of a worldwide program to minimize foreign currency exchange operating income and balance sheet exposure by offsetting foreign currency exposures of certain future payments between the Company and various subsidiaries, suppliers or customers. The unsecured contracts are with major financial institutions. The Company may be exposed to credit loss in the event of non-performance by the contract counterparties. The Company evaluates the creditworthiness of the counterparties and does not expect default by them. Foreign currency forward exchange contracts are used to hedge commitments, such as foreign currency debt, firm purchase commitments and foreign currency cash flows for certain export sales transactions.

91


The following tables summarize, by major currency, the contractual amounts of the Company's foreign currency forward exchange contracts in U.S. dollars at December 31, 2014 and 2013. The "Buy" amounts represent the U.S. dollar equivalent of commitments to purchase foreign currencies, and the "Sell" amounts represent the U.S. dollar equivalent of commitments to sell foreign currencies. The recognized gains and losses offset amounts recognized in cost of services and products sold principally as a result of intercompany or third-party foreign currency exposures.
Contracted Amounts of Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts Outstanding at December 31, 2014:
(In thousands)
 
Type
 
U.S. Dollar
Equivalent
 
Maturity
 
Recognized
Gain (Loss)
British pounds sterling
 
Sell
 
$
37,943

 
January 2015
 
$
179

British pounds sterling
 
Buy
 
2,783

 
January 2015
 
(4
)
Euros
 
Sell
 
193,370

 
January 2015 through March 2015
 
2,993

Euros
 
Buy
 
194,084

 
January 2015 through March 2015
 
(3,767
)
Other currencies
 
Sell
 
12,641

 
January 2015 through December 2015
 
439

Other currencies
 
Buy
 
28,001

 
January 2015 through June 2015
 
27

Total
 
 
 
$
468,822

 
 
 
$
(133
)
Contracted Amounts of Foreign Currency Exchange Forward Contracts Outstanding at December 31, 2013:
(In thousands)
 
Type
 
U.S. Dollar
Equivalent
 
Maturity
 
Recognized
Gain (Loss)
British pounds sterling
 
Sell
 
$
26,931

 
January 2014
 
$
(277
)
British pounds sterling
 
Buy
 
1,976

 
January 2014
 
15

Euros
 
Sell
 
248,943

 
January 2014 through July 2014
 
(335
)
Euros
 
Buy
 
242,385

 
January 2014 through March 2014
 
(1,335
)
Other currencies
 
Sell
 
12,708

 
January 2014 through July 2014
 
(134
)
Other currencies
 
Buy
 
8,907

 
January 2014 through August 2014
 
38

Total
 
 
 
$
541,850

 
 
 
$
(2,028
)

Included in the contracted amounts of foreign currency exchange forward contracts outstanding at December 31, 2013 are $121.2 million of foreign currency exchange forward contracts entered into by the Company under the Transition Services Agreement with Brand. The Company has recognized a $0.7 million mark-to-market liability associated with these foreign currency exchange forward contracts.
In addition to foreign currency forward exchange contracts, the Company designates certain loans as hedges of net investments in international subsidiaries. The Company recorded pre-tax net gains of $22.6 million and pre-tax net losses of $9.8 million and $5.3 million related to hedges of net investments during 2014, 2013 and 2012, respectively, in the caption, Accumulated other comprehensive loss.
Cross Currency Interest Rate Swaps
The Company uses cross currency interest rate swaps in conjunction with certain debt issuances in order to secure a fixed local currency interest rate. Under these cross currency interest rate swaps, the Company receives interest based on a fixed or floating U.S. dollar rate and pays interest on a fixed local currency rate based on the contractual amounts in dollars and the local currency, respectively. At maturity, there is also the payment of principal amounts between currencies. The cross currency interest rate swaps are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value, with changes in value attributed to the effect of the swaps' interest spread and changes in the credit worthiness of the counter-parties recorded in the caption, Accumulated other comprehensive loss. Changes in value attributed to the effect of foreign currency fluctuations are recorded in the Consolidated Statements of Operations and offset currency fluctuation effects on the debt principal. The following table indicates the contractual amounts of the Company's cross currency interest rate swaps:
 
 
Contractual
Amounts
 
Interest Rates
(In millions)
 
 
Receive
 
Pay
Maturing 2018
 
$
250.0

 
Fixed U.S. dollar rate
 
Fixed euro rate
Maturing 2020
 
220.0

 
Fixed U.S. dollar rate
 
Fixed British pound sterling rate
Maturing 2016 through 2017
 
8.8

 
Floating U.S. dollar rate
 
Fixed rupee rate






92


Fair Value of Derivative Assets and Liabilities and Other Financial Instruments
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date (an exit price). The Company utilizes market data or assumptions that the Company believes market participants would use in valuing the asset or liability, including assumptions about risk and the risks inherent in the inputs to the valuation technique.
The fair value hierarchy distinguishes between (1) market participant assumptions developed based on market data obtained from independent sources (observable inputs) and (2) an entity's own assumptions about market participant assumptions based on the best information available in the circumstances (unobservable inputs). The fair value hierarchy consists of three broad levels, which gives the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are described below:
Level 1—Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date for identical, unrestricted assets or liabilities.
Level 2—Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly, including quoted prices for similar assets or liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active; inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability (e.g., interest rates); and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means.
Level 3—Inputs that are both significant to the fair value measurement and unobservable.
In instances in which multiple levels of inputs are used to measure fair value, hierarchy classification is based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety. The Company's assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the asset or liability.
The following table indicates the fair value hierarchy of the financial instruments of the Company at December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Level 2 Fair Value Measurements
(In thousands)
 
December 31
2014
 
December 31
2013
Assets
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
$
4,485

 
$
1,256

Cross currency interest rate swaps
 
52,989

 
26,001

Liabilities
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
4,618

 
3,284

Cross currency interest rate swaps
 
2,599

 
13,410

The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balances for liabilities measured on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013:
Level 3 Liabilities—Unit Adjustment Liability for the Twelve Months Ended December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
Balance at beginning of year
 
$
106,343

 
$

Recognition of unit adjustment liability
 

 
107,500

Payments
 
(22,320
)
 
(2,123
)
Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability
 
9,740

 
966

Balance at end of year
 
$
93,762

(a)
$
106,343

(a)
Does not total due to rounding.
See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information related to the unit adjustment liability.
The Company primarily applies the market approach for recurring fair value measurements and endeavors to utilize the best available information. Accordingly, the Company utilizes valuation techniques that maximize the use of observable inputs, such as forward rates, interest rates, the Company's credit risk and counterparties' credit risks, and which minimize the use of unobservable inputs. The Company is able to classify fair value balances based on the ability to observe those inputs. Commodity derivatives, foreign currency forward exchange contracts and cross currency interest rate swaps are classified as Level 2 fair value based upon pricing models using market-based inputs. Model inputs can be verified, and valuation techniques do not involve significant management judgment.


93


The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable, accrued liabilities and short-term borrowings approximate fair value due to the short-term maturities of these assets and liabilities. At December 31, 2014 and 2013, the total fair value of long-term debt, including current maturities, was $885.0 million and $832.6 million, respectively, compared to carrying value of $854.9 million and $803.4 million, respectively. Fair values for debt are based on quoted market prices (Level 1) for the same or similar issues or on the current rates offered to the Company for debt of the same remaining maturities.
Concentrations of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist principally of cash and cash equivalents and accounts receivable. The Company places cash and cash equivalents with high-quality financial institutions and, by policy, limits the amount of credit exposure to any single institution.
Concentrations of credit risk with respect to accounts receivable are generally limited in the Harsco Industrial Segments due to the Company's large number of customers and their dispersion across different industries and geographies. However, the Company's Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and, to a lesser extent, the Harsco Rail Segment have several large customers throughout the world with significant accounts receivable balances. Consolidation in the global steel or rail industries could result in an increase in concentration of credit risk for the Company.
The Company generally does not require collateral or other security to support customer receivables. If a receivable from one or more of the Company's larger customers becomes uncollectible, it could have a material effect on the Company's results of operations or cash flows.

16. Information by Segment and Geographic Area
The Company reports information about operating segments using the "management approach," which is based on the way management organizes and reports the segments within the enterprise for making operating decisions and assessing performance. The Company's reportable segments are identified based upon differences in products, services and markets served.
In 2014, the Company had three reportable segments. These segments and the types of products and services offered include the following:
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
Global expertise in providing on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing; as well as value added environmental solutions for industrial co-products. Major customers include steel mills and asphalt roofing manufacturers.

Harsco Industrial Segment
Major products include air-cooled heat exchangers; industrial grating; and boilers and water heaters. Major customers include industrial plants and the non-residential, commercial and public construction and retrofit markets; and the natural gas, natural gas processing and petrochemical industries.

Harsco Rail Segment
This Segment manufactures railway track maintenance equipment and provides track maintenance services. The major customers include private and government-owned railroads and urban mass transit systems worldwide.

In 2013 and 2012, the Company's reportable segments also include the following:

Harsco Infrastructure Segment
Historically, major services included project engineering and equipment installation, as well as the sale and rental of scaffolding, shoring and concrete forming systems for industrial maintenance and capital improvement projects, civil infrastructure projects, non-residential construction, and international multi-dwelling residential construction projects. Services were provided to industrial and petrochemical plants; the infrastructure construction, repair and maintenance markets; commercial and industrial construction contractors; and public utilities. As a result of the Infrastructure Transaction, this Segment is not included in the Company's results of operations for 2014. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information on the Infrastructure Transaction.




94


Other Information
The measurement basis of segment profit or loss is operating income (loss). There are no significant inter-segment sales. Corporate assets, at December 31, 2014, include principally cash, prepaid taxes, fair value of derivative instruments, the equity method investment in Brand and U.S. deferred income taxes. Countries with revenues from unaffiliated customers or net property, plant and equipment of ten percent or more of the consolidated totals (in at least one period presented) are as follows:
Information by Geographic Area (a)
 
 
Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers
 
 
 Year Ended December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
United States
 
$
880,884

 
$
1,021,770

 
$
1,108,051

United Kingdom
 
257,885

 
353,915

 
331,894

All Other
 
926,969

 
1,520,835

 
1,606,073

Totals including Corporate
 
$
2,065,738

 
$
2,896,520

 
$
3,046,018

(a)
Revenues are attributed to individual countries based on the location of the facility generating the revenue.

 
 
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
 
 
Balances at December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
United States
 
$
151,397

 
$
147,820

 
$
242,890

China
 
102,842

 
86,822

 
55,656

Brazil
 
69,515

 
63,161

 
65,019

All Other
 
339,490

 
413,543

 
902,660

Totals including Corporate
 
$
663,244

 
$
711,346

 
$
1,266,225

No single customer provided in excess of 10% of the Company's consolidated revenues in 2014, 2013, or 2012.
In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment had two customers that each provided in excess of 10% of this Segment's revenues under multiple long-term contracts at several mill sites. Additionally, consolidation in the global steel industry has increased the Company's exposure to these customers. Should additional consolidations occur involving some of the steel industry's larger companies which are customers of the Company, it would result in an increase in concentration of credit risk for the Company. In 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Harsco Industrial Segment had one customer that provided in excess of 10% of the Segment's revenues. In 2014 and 2012, the Harsco Rail Segment had one customer and in 2013 two customers that provided in excess of 10% of the Segment's revenues. The loss of any of these customers would not have a material adverse impact on the Company's financial positions or cash flows; however, it could have a material effect on quarterly or annual results of operations.

95


Operating Information by Segment:

The Company has reclassified segment operating results for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 to conform to the revised manner in which the Company now allocates corporate expenses to operating segments as a result of changes in organizational structure resulting from the Infrastructure Transaction. The changes do not impact the Company's previously reported consolidated revenues from continuing operations, operating income (loss) from continuing operations or income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income.
 
 
Twelve Months Ended
 
 
December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
$
1,377,592

 
$
1,359,004

 
$
1,404,103

Harsco Infrastructure
 

 
885,377

 
937,293

Harsco Industrial
 
412,532

 
365,972

 
352,586

Harsco Rail
 
275,614

 
286,167

 
352,036

Total Revenues
 
$
2,065,738

 
$
2,896,520

 
$
3,046,018

Operating Income (Loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
$
9,858

 
$
95,310

 
$
99,668

Harsco Infrastructure
 

 
(255,326
)
 
(350,497
)
Harsco Industrial
 
63,680

 
58,977

 
58,062

Harsco Rail
 
37,137

 
27,710

 
54,727

Corporate
 
(47,204
)
 
(61,470
)
 
(36,750
)
Total Operating Income (Loss)
 
$
63,471

 
$
(134,799
)
 
$
(174,790
)
Total Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
$
1,472,277

 
$
1,595,221

 
$
1,561,973

Harsco Infrastructure (a)
 

 
456,323

 
1,018,979

Harsco Industrial
 
126,548

 
83,189

 
81,035

Harsco Rail
 
169,035

 
159,774

 
188,348

Corporate
 
495,941

 
147,241

 
125,634

Total Assets
 
$
2,263,801

 
$
2,441,748

 
$
2,975,969

Depreciation and Amortization
 
 

 
 

 
 

Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
$
159,844

 
$
158,837

 
$
163,137

Harsco Infrastructure
 

 
58,449

 
89,814

Harsco Industrial
 
4,928

 
3,329

 
3,098

Harsco Rail
 
5,591

 
10,362

 
10,116

Corporate
 
5,963

 
6,064

 
5,952

Total Depreciation and Amortization
 
$
176,326

 
$
237,041

 
$
272,117

Capital Expenditures
 
 

 
 

 
 

Harsco Metals & Minerals
 
$
186,784

 
$
173,179

 
$
189,358

Harsco Infrastructure
 

 
62,889

 
63,137

Harsco Industrial
 
9,298

 
3,936

 
3,669

Harsco Rail
 
3,120

 
3,502

 
4,133

Corporate
 
8,776

 
2,641

 
4,726

Total Capital Expenditures
 
$
207,978

 
$
246,147

 
$
265,023

(a) The total assets of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment at December 31, 2013 represent assets held-for-sale, the value of the equity method investment in Brand, and related net deferred tax assets.


96


Reconciliation of Segment Operating Income (Loss) to Consolidated Income From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes and Equity Income:
 
 
Twelve Months Ended
 
 
December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Segment operating income (loss)
 
$
110,675

 
$
(73,329
)
 
$
(138,040
)
General Corporate expense
 
(47,204
)
 
(61,470
)
 
(36,750
)
Operating income (loss) from continuing operations
 
63,471

 
(134,799
)
 
(174,790
)
Interest income
 
1,702

 
2,087

 
3,676

Interest expense
 
(47,111
)
 
(49,654
)
 
(47,381
)
Change in fair value to the unit adjustment liability
 
(9,740
)
 
(966
)
 

Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes and equity income
 
$
8,322

 
$
(183,332
)
 
$
(218,495
)
Information about Products and Services:
 
 
Revenues from Unaffiliated Customers
 
 
Twelve Months Ended
 
 
December 31
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Key Product and Services Groups
 
 
 
 
 
 
Global expertise in providing on-site services of material logistics, product quality improvement and resource recovery for iron, steel and metals manufacturing; as well as value added environmental solutions for industrial co-products
 
$
1,377,592

 
$
1,359,004

 
$
1,404,103

Engineered scaffolding, concrete forming and shoring, and other access-related services, rentals and sales (a)
 

 
885,377

 
937,293

Railway track maintenance services and equipment
 
275,614

 
286,167

 
352,036

Air-cooled heat exchangers
 
226,529

 
180,738

 
175,896

Industrial grating products
 
139,711

 
142,355

 
136,157

Heat transfer products
 
46,292

 
42,879

 
40,533

Consolidated Revenues
 
$
2,065,738

 
$
2,896,520

 
$
3,046,018

(a) The Engineered scaffolding, concrete forming and shoring, and other access-related services, rentals and sales product group is associated with the Harsco Infrastructure Segment which was disposed of as part of the Infrastructure Transaction. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information on the Infrastructure Transaction.


17. Other Expenses
During 2014, 2013 and 2012, the Company recorded pre-tax other expenses from continuing operations of $57.8 million, $15.1 million and $93.8 million, respectively. The major components of this Consolidated Statements of Operations caption are as follows:
 
 
Other (Income) Expenses
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Net gains
 
$
(6,718
)
 
$
(4,657
)
 
$
(5,848
)
Employee termination benefit costs
 
19,120

 
3,928

 
31,158

Costs to exit activities
 
4,908

 
5,382

 
38,626

Product line rationalization
 

 

 
24,966

Impaired asset write-downs
 
39,455

 
9,688

 
7,152

Other (income) expense
 
1,059

 
769

 
(2,278
)
Total
 
$
57,824

 
$
15,110

 
$
93,776

Other expenses in 2014 were incurred in conjunction with non-cash impaired asset write-downs, termination benefit costs and costs to exit activities in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment aligned with the Harsco Metals & Minerals Improvement Plan ("Project Orion") and the related focus on underperforming contracts, partially offset by net gains, primarily in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and Harsco Industrial Segment. See Note 19, Restructuring Programs, for additional information on Project Orion.


97


Other expenses in 2013 were incurred in conjunction with impaired asset write-downs primarily in the Harsco Rail Segment, costs to exit activities primarily in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and Corporate, employee termination benefit costs primarily in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, partially offset by net gains primarily in the Harsco Infrastructure Segment.
Substantially all other expenses in 2012 were incurred in conjunction with restructuring programs initiated within the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment in 2011 and the Harsco Infrastructure Segment in 2010. See Note 19, Restructuring Programs, for additional information on these restructuring programs.
Net Gains
Net gains result from the sales of redundant properties (primarily land, buildings and related equipment) and non-core assets. In 2014, gains related to assets sold primarily in North America and Latin America. In 2013, gains related to assets sold principally in the United States and Western Europe. In 2012, gains related to assets sold principally in the United States.
 
 
Net Gains
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
 
$
(3,538
)
 
$
(1,043
)
 
$
(2,449
)
Harsco Infrastructure Segment
 

 
(2,864
)
 
(2,198
)
Harsco Industrial Segment
 
(2,077
)
 
(750
)
 
(1,089
)
Corporate
 
(1,103
)
 

 
(112
)
Total
 
$
(6,718
)
 
$
(4,657
)
 
$
(5,848
)
Cash proceeds associated with these gains are included in the caption, Proceeds from sales of assets, in the cash flows from investing activities section of the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.
Employee Termination Benefit Costs
Costs and the related liabilities associated with involuntary termination benefit costs associated with one-time benefit arrangements provided as part of an exit or disposal activity are recognized by the Company when a formal plan for reorganization is approved at the appropriate level of management and communicated to the affected employees. Additionally, costs associated with ongoing benefit arrangements, or in certain countries where statutory requirements dictate a minimum required benefit, are recognized when they are probable and estimable.
The employee termination benefits costs in 2014 related primarily to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, including the impact of Project Orion, primarily in Latin America and Western Europe. The employee termination benefit costs in 2013 related primarily to the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment and were primarily in Latin America, Western Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and North America. The employee termination benefit costs in 2012 related primarily to the 2011/2012 Restructuring Program and were primarily in Western Europe, North America, the United Kingdom and the Asia-Pacific region.
 
 
Employee Termination Benefit Costs
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
 
$
18,169

 
$
3,561

 
$
8,082

Harsco Infrastructure Segment (a)
 

 
(326
)
 
17,291

Harsco Rail Segment
 
185

 
235

 
245

Harsco Industrial Segment
 
421

 
115

 
418

Corporate
 
345

 
343

 
5,122

Total
 
$
19,120

 
$
3,928

 
$
31,158

(a) Amounts related to the Harsco Infrastructure Segment during 2013 primarily relate to the finalization of certain accrued amounts associated with the Company's restructuring programs.

Costs to Exit Activities
Costs associated with exit or disposal activities are recognized as follows:

Costs to terminate a contract that is not a capital lease are recognized when an entity terminates the contract or when an entity ceases using the right conveyed by the contract. This includes the costs to terminate the contract before the end of its term or the costs that will continue to be incurred under the contract for its remaining term without economic benefit to the entity (e.g., lease run-out costs).
Other costs associated with exit or disposal activities (e.g., costs to consolidate or close facilities and relocate equipment or employees) are recognized and measured at their fair value in the period in which the liability is incurred.

98


In 2014, $4.9 million of exit costs were incurred, principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment, primarily related to North America and Western Europe, partially offset at Corporate by gains from currency translation adjustments recognized in earnings related to historic Harsco Infrastructure Segment entities which were not included as part of the Infrastructure Transaction and retained by the Company. The currency translation adjustments are non-cash items recognized when the Company has substantially liquidated the related investment in a foreign entity.
In 2013, $5.4 million of exit costs were incurred, principally at Corporate related to the preliminary phases of the Infrastructure Transaction and the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment at various sites.
In 2012, $38.6 million of exit costs were incurred, principally related to Western Europe, the United States and the United Kingdom. This consists primarily of branch structure reduction and office rationalization costs in the Harsco Infrastructure and Harsco Metals & Minerals Segments. Costs to exit activities included $10.9 million of gains from currency translation adjustments recognized in earnings. The Company exited certain countries and recognized such adjustment gains in conjunction with the Company's 2011/2012 Restructuring Program.
 
 
Costs to Exit Activities
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
 
$
6,395

 
$
2,705

 
$
3,627

Harsco Infrastructure Segment (a)
 

 
(254
)
 
34,820

Corporate
 
(1,487
)
 
2,931

 
179

Total
 
$
4,908

 
$
5,382

 
$
38,626

(a) Amounts related to the Harsco Infrastructure Segment during 2013 primarily relate to the finalization of certain accrued amounts associated with the Company's restructuring programs.

Product Line Rationalization
The Company did not record any product line rationalization charges in either 2014 or 2013. The product line rationalization charge of $25.0 million in 2012 represents a write-down of certain rental assets and sale inventories in the Harsco Infrastructure Segment that were discontinued in conjunction with restructuring programs to streamline and optimize product offerings. These charges are net of estimated salvage value. Salvage values were based on estimates of proceeds to be realized through the sale of this inventory outside the normal course of business.

Impaired Asset Write-downs
Impaired asset write-downs are measured as the amount by which the carrying amount of assets exceeds their fair value. Fair value is estimated based upon the expected future realizable cash flows including anticipated selling prices. Non-cash impaired asset write-downs are included in the caption, Other, net, on the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows as adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities.
In 2014, $39.5 million of impaired asset write-downs were incurred, principally in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment mostly in Western Europe, the Middle East and Africa and the Asia Pacific region as part of Project Orion. In 2013, $9.7 million of impaired asset write-downs were incurred, principally in the Harsco Rail Segment related to certain contract services assets being written-down to the net realizable value. In 2012, impaired asset write-downs were recorded in the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment principally in the Asia-Pacific region resulting from exiting an underperforming contract.
 
 
Impaired Asset Write-downs
(In thousands)
 
2014
 
2013
 
2012
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
 
$
38,791

 
$
689

 
$
7,152

Harsco Rail Segment
 
590

 
8,999

 

Harsco Industrial Segment
 
74

 

 

Total
 
$
39,455

 
$
9,688

 
$
7,152









99


18. Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Accumulated other comprehensive loss is included on the Consolidated Statements of Stockholders' Equity. The components of Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of the effect of income taxes, and activity for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
 
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Net of Tax
(In thousands)
 
Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments
 
Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations
 
Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities
 
Total
Balance at December 31, 2012
 
$
62,308

 
$
(8,139
)
 
$
(465,286
)
 
$
(51
)
 
$
(411,168
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(39,848
)
(a)
1,060

(b)
55,581

(c)
31

 
16,824

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 

 
8

 
19,839

 

 
19,847

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with the Infrastructure Transaction (See Note 3, Acquisition and Dispositions)
 
(15,979
)
 
(21
)
 
20,184

 

 
4,184

Total other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(55,827
)
 
1,047

 
95,604

 
31

 
40,855

Less: Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
(371
)
 
69

 

 

 
(302
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation
 
(56,198
)
 
1,116

 
95,604

 
31

 
40,553

Balance at December 31, 2013
 
$
6,110

 
$
(7,023
)
 
$
(369,682
)
 
$
(20
)
 
$
(370,615
)
 
 
Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) - Net of Tax
(In thousands)
 
Cumulative Foreign Exchange Translation Adjustments
 
Effective Portion of Derivatives Designated as Hedging Instruments
 
Cumulative Unrecognized Actuarial Losses on Pension Obligations
 
Unrealized Loss on Marketable Securities
 
Total
Balance at December 31, 2013
 
$
6,110

 
$
(7,023
)
 
$
(369,682
)
 
$
(20
)
 
$
(370,615
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications
 
(40,053
)
(a)
(1,961
)
(b)
(130,659
)
(c)
5

 
(172,668
)
Other comprehensive income (loss) from equity method investee
 
(8,635
)
 

 
632

 

 
(8,003
)
Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, net of tax
 
2,205

 
4

 
16,431

 

 
18,640

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with the Infrastructure Transaction (See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions)
 
(1,447
)
 

 

 

 
(1,447
)
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(47,930
)
 
(1,957
)
 
(113,596
)
 
5

 
(163,478
)
Less: Other comprehensive (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
1,647

 
(45
)
 

 

 
1,602

Other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation
 
(46,283
)
 
(2,002
)
 
(113,596
)
 
5

 
(161,876
)
Balance at December 31, 2014
 
$
(40,173
)
 
$
(9,025
)
 
$
(483,278
)
 
$
(15
)
 
$
(532,491
)
(a) Principally foreign currency fluctuation.
(b) Net change from periodic revaluations.
(c) Principally changes due to annual actuarial remeasurements.









100


Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31 2014
 
Year Ended December 31 2013
 
Affected Caption in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In thousands)
 
Amortization of defined benefit pension items (a):
Actuarial losses
 
$
11,556

(b)
$
12,435

(b)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Actuarial losses
 
5,898

(b)
9,064

(b)
Cost of services and products sold
Prior-service costs
 
103

(b)
298

(b)
Selling, general and administrative expenses
Prior-service costs
 
171

(b)
285

(b)
Cost of services and products sold
Total before tax
 
17,728

 
22,082

 
 
Tax benefit
 
(1,297
)
 
(2,243
)
 
 
Total reclassification of defined benefit pension items, net of tax
 
$
16,431

 
$
19,839

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of cash flow hedging instruments (a):
Foreign currency forward exchange contracts
 
$
4

 
$
11

 
Cost of services and products sold
Tax benefit
 

 
(3
)
 
 
Total reclassification of cash flow hedging instruments
 
$
4

 
$
8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Amortization of cumulative foreign exchange translation adjustments (a):
Foreign exchange translation adjustments, before tax
 
$
2,205

 
$

 
Other expenses
Tax benefit
 

 

 
 
Total reclassification of cumulative foreign exchange translation adjustments
 
$
2,205

 
$

 
 
(a) Amounts in parentheses indicate credits to profit/loss.
(b) These accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in the computation of net periodic pension costs. Please refer to Note 10, Employee Benefit Plans, for additional details.

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss in connection with the asset impairment loss recognized in the Infrastructure Transaction for the years ended December 31, 2014 and 2013 are as follows:
 
 
Year Ended December 31 2014
 
Year Ended December 31 2013
 
Affected Caption in the Consolidated Statements of Operations
(In thousands)
 
Foreign exchange translation adjustments, before tax
 
$
(1,447
)
 
$
(15,979
)
 
Loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs
Tax effect
 

 

 
 
Total reclassification of foreign exchange transaction adjustments
 
$
(1,447
)
 
$
(15,979
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash flow hedging instruments, before tax
 
$

 
$
(34
)
 
Loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs
Tax effect
 

 
13

 
 
Total reclassification of cash flow hedging instruments
 
$

 
$
(21
)
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
Defined benefit pension items, before tax
 
$

 
$
20,184

 
Loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment and transaction costs
Tax effect
 

 

 
 
Total reclassification of defined benefit pension items
 
$

 
$
20,184

 
 





101


19. Restructuring Programs
In recent years, the Company has instituted restructuring programs to balance short-term profitability goals with long-term strategies. A primary objective of these programs has been to establish platforms upon which the affected businesses can grow with reduced fixed investment and generate annual operating expense savings.  The restructuring programs have been instituted in response to the continuing impact of global financial and economic uncertainty on the Company’s end markets. Restructuring costs incurred in these programs were recorded in the caption, Other expenses, of the Consolidated Statements of Operations. The timing of associated cash payments is dependent on the type of restructuring cost and can extend over a multi-year period.
Project Orion
Under Project Orion, the Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment made organizational and process improvement changes, which are expected to improve return on capital and deliver a higher and more consistent level of service to customers by improving several core processes and simplifying the organizational structure. The Company incurred $12.0 million in employee termination benefit costs related to Project Orion during 2014. As a result of actions initiated under phase one of Project Orion, during 2014, the Company realized compensation savings of approximately $6 million for the year ended December 31, 2014, or approximately $17 million on an annualized basis, with benefits from phase two of Project Orion expected to commence in 2015. Annual recurring benefits from compensation and other operational savings under Project Orion are expected to be approximately $24 million and $13 million, respectively.

The restructuring accrual for Project Orion at December 31, 2014 and the activity for the year ended December 31, 2014 were as follows:

(In thousands)
 
Expense Incurred in 2014
 
Other
Adjustments
 

 Cash
Expenditures
 
Foreign
Currency
Translation
 
Remaining
Accrual
December 31 2014
Harsco Metals & Minerals Segment
Employee termination benefit costs
 
$
11,992

 
$
1,190

 
$
(5,331
)
 
$
(183
)
 
$
7,668

Total
 
$
11,992

 
$
1,190

 
$
(5,331
)
 
$
(183
)
 
$
7,668

The remaining accrual related to Project Orion is expected to be paid, principally, through 2015 with the remainder in the first half of 2016.
Prior Restructuring Programs
The remaining accrual for restructuring programs was $2.4 million and $5.1 million at December 31, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The remaining accrual relates primarily to exit activity costs for lease terminations expected to be paid over the remaining life of the leases.


102


Two-Year Summary of Quarterly Results (Unaudited)
(In millions, except per share amounts)
 
 
2014 (a)
 
Quarterly
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
 
Revenues
 
$
512.7

 
$
534.6

 
$
526.4

 
$
492.1

 
Gross profit (b)
 
103.2

 
117.1

 
115.4

 
83.2

 
Net income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation
 
11.1

 
(14.0
)
 
23.6

 
(45.6
)
 
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Continuing operations
 
$
0.14

 
$
(0.19
)
 
$
0.30

 
$
(0.56
)
 
Discontinued operations (c)
 

 
0.01

 

 

 
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
0.14

 
$
(0.17
)
(e)
$
0.29

(e)
$
(0.56
)
 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Continuing operations
 
$
0.14

 
$
(0.19
)
 
$
0.30

 
$
(0.56
)
 
Discontinued operations (c)
 

 
0.01

 

 

 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
0.14

 
$
(0.17
)
(e)
$
0.29

(e)
$
(0.56
)
 
 
 
2013 (a)
 
Quarterly
 
First
 
Second
 
Third
 
Fourth
 
Revenues
 
$
715.4

 
$
759.7

 
$
740.0

 
$
681.3

 
Gross profit (b)
 
151.1

 
182.6

 
172.2

 
156.4

 
Net income (loss) attributable to Harsco Corporation
 
7.2

 
23.8

 
(233.7
)
(d)
(25.3
)
(d)
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Continuing operations
 
$
0.09

 
$
0.30

 
$
(2.89
)
(d)
$
(0.31
)
(d)
Discontinued operations (c)
 

 
(0.01
)
 

 

 
Basic earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
0.09

 
$
0.29

 
$
(2.89
)
 
$
(0.31
)
 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders:
Continuing operations
 
$
0.09

 
$
0.30

 
$
(2.89
)
(d)
$
(0.31
)
(d)
Discontinued operations (c)
 

 
(0.01
)
 

 

 
Diluted earnings (loss) per share attributable to Harsco Corporation common stockholders
 
$
0.09

 
$
0.29

 
$
(2.89
)
 
$
(0.31
)
 
(a)
Sum of the quarters may not equal the total year due to rounding.
(b)
Gross profit is defined as Revenues less costs and expenses associated directly with or allocated to products sold or services rendered.
(c)
Discontinued operations related principally to the Gas Technologies Segment which was sold in the fourth quarter of 2007. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information on discontinued operations.
(d)
During 2013, the Company recorded a $271.3 million loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment, or $3.16 per basic and diluted share. During the third and fourth quarters of 2013, there were $241.3 million and $30.0 million of pre-tax loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment incurred, respectively, related to the Infrastructure Transaction. See Note 3, Acquisitions and Dispositions, for additional information on the pre-tax loss on disposal of the Harsco Infrastructure Segment.
(e)
Does not total due to rounding.

103


Common Stock Price and Dividend Information
(Unaudited)
 
 
Market Price Per Share
 
Dividends  Declared
Per Share
 
 
High
 
Low
 
2014
 
 
 
 
 
 
First quarter
 
$
28.19

 
$
21.16

 
$
0.205

Second quarter
 
27.77

 
22.43

 
0.205

Third quarter
 
27.56

 
19.26

 
0.205

Fourth quarter
 
21.81

 
16.48

 
0.205

2013
 
 
 
 
 
 
First quarter
 
$
26.02

 
$
22.84

 
$
0.205

Second quarter
 
24.75

 
20.98

 
0.205

Third quarter
 
27.03

 
23.20

 
0.205

Fourth quarter
 
28.99

 
23.86

 
0.205


Item 9.    Changes In and Disagreements with Accountants on Accounting and Financial Disclosure.
None.

Item 9A.    Controls and Procedures.
Based on the evaluation required by Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(b) and 15d-15(b), the Company's management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, conducted an evaluation of the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures, as defined in Securities Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e), at December 31, 2014. Based on that evaluation, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were effective at December 31, 2014. There were no changes in internal control over financial reporting that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting during the fourth quarter of 2014.
Management's Report on Internal Controls Over Financial Reporting is included in Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data." The effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting at December 31, 2014 has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in the Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm appearing in Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

Item 9B.    Other Information.
None.

104


PART III
Item 10.    Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance.
The information regarding executive officers of the Company required by this Item is set forth as a Supplementary Item, titled "Executive Officers of the Registrant," at the end of Part I of this Annual Report on Form 10-K (pursuant to Instruction 3 to Item 401(b) of Regulation S-K) and is incorporated herein by reference. The other information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the sections entitled "Corporate Governance," "Proposal 1: Election of Directors - Nominees for Director," "Meetings and Committees of the Board," "Report of the Audit Committee" and "Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance" of the Company's Definitive Proxy Statement for its 2015 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the "2015 Proxy Statement"), which will be filed pursuant to SEC Regulation 14A not later than 120 days after the end of the Company's fiscal year ended December 31, 2014.
The Company's Code of Conduct (the "Code"), which applies to all officers, directors and employees of the Company, may be found on the Company's Internet website, www.harsco.com. The Company intends to disclose on its website any amendments to the Code or any waiver from a provision of the Code granted to an executive officer or director of the Company. The Code is available in print, without charge, to any person who requests it. To request a copy of the Code please contact the Company's Senior Director—Corporate Communications at (717) 730-3683.

Item 11.    Executive Compensation.
The information regarding compensation of executive officers and directors required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the sections entitled "Compensation Discussion and Analysis - Executive Summary," "Discussion and Analysis of 2014 Compensation" and "Non-Employee Director Compensation" of the 2015 Proxy Statement. The other information required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the sections entitled "Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation" and "Compensation Committee Report" of the 2015 Proxy Statement.

Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters.
The information regarding security ownership of certain beneficial owners and management required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the section entitled "Share Ownership of Directors, Management and Certain Beneficial Owners" of the 2015 Proxy Statement.
Equity compensation plan information is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the section entitled "Equity Compensation Plan Information" of the 2015 Proxy Statement.

Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence.
The information regarding certain relationships and related transactions required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the section entitled "Transactions with Related Persons" of the 2015 Proxy Statement. The information regarding director independence required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the section entitled "Corporate Governance" of the 2015 Proxy Statement.

Item 14.    Principal Accounting Fees and Services.
The information regarding principal accounting fees and services required by this Item is incorporated herein by reference from the disclosures that will be included under the sections entitled "Report of the Audit Committee" and "Fees Billed by the Independent Auditors for Audit and Non-Audit Services" of the 2015 Proxy Statement.

105


PART IV
Item 15.    Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules.
(a)
1. The Index to Consolidated Financial Statements and Supplementary Data is located under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data."

2. The following financial statement schedule should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements under Part II, Item 8, "Financial Statements and Supplementary Data":
Financial statement schedules other than that listed above are omitted because the required information is not applicable, or because the information required is included in the consolidated financial statements.




106



SCHEDULE II. VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS
Continuing Operations
(In thousands)
COLUMN A
 
COLUMN B
 
COLUMN C
 
COLUMN D
 
COLUMN E
 
 
 
 
Additions
 
Additions (Deductions)
 
 
Description
 
Balance at
Beginning of
Period
 
Charged to
Cost and
Expenses
 
Due to
Currency
Translation
Adjustments
 
Other
 
Balance at End
of Period
For the year 2014:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
$
6,638

 
$
9,892

 
$
(969
)
 
$
(442
)
 
$
15,119

Deferred Tax Assets—Valuation Allowance
 
$
127,164

 
$
24,252

 
$
(9,254
)
 
$
(10,820
)
 
$
131,342

For the year 2013:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
$
17,253

 
$
10,175

 
$
(191
)
 
$
(20,599
)
(a)
$
6,638

Deferred Tax Assets—Valuation Allowance
 
$
126,532

 
$
4,164

 
$
(5,769
)
 
$
2,237

 
$
127,164

For the year 2012:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
 
$
17,829

 
$
11,266

 
$
166

 
$
(12,008
)
(b)
$
17,253

Deferred Tax Assets—Valuation Allowance
 
$
99,617

 
$
18,552

 
$
3,449

 
$
4,914

 
$
126,532

(a)
Includes principally the decrease in the allowance for doubtful accounts since December 31, 2012 related to the consummation of the Infrastructure Transaction and utilization of previously reserved amounts.
(b)
Includes principally the utilization of previously reserved amounts.


107


Listing of Exhibits Filed with Form 10-K
Exhibit
Number
 
Description of Exhibit
2(a)
 
Purchase Agreement, dated as of September 15, 2013, by and among Harsco Corporation, on behalf of itself and the other sellers named therein, Bullseye, Inc., on behalf of itself and the other buyers named therein, Bullseye Investors, Inc. and CD&R Bullseye Holdings, L.P. (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970). The registrant has omitted certain immaterial schedules and exhibits to this exhibit pursuant to the provisions of Regulation S-K, Item 601(b)(2). The registrant will furnish a copy of any of the omitted schedules and exhibits to the Securities and Exchange Commission upon request.
3(a)
 
Restated Certificate of Incorporation (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970).
3(b)
 
Certificate of Designation filed September 25, 1997 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1997, Commission File Number 001-03970).
3(c)
 
By-laws, as amended October 28, 2014 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated October 28, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(a)
 
Preferred Stock Purchase Rights Agreement (incorporated by reference to Registration Statement on Form  8-A dated October 2, 1987, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(b)
 
Rights Agreement, dated as of September 25, 2007, by and between Harsco Corporation and Mellon Investor Services LLC, as Rights Agent (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated September 26, 2007, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(c)
 
Debt and Equity Securities (incorporated by reference to the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-3 dated December 15, 1994, Registration No. 33-56885).
4(d) (i)
 
Indenture, dated as of May 15, 2008, by and between Harsco Corporation and the Bank of New York, as trustee (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 20, 2008, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(d) (ii)
 
Supplemental Indenture, dated as of May 15, 2008, by and between Harsco Corporation and the Bank of New York, as trustee (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 20, 2008, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(d) (iii)
 
Form of Global Security representing Harsco Corporation's 5.75% Senior Notes due 2018 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated May 20, 2008, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(e) (i)
 
Indenture, dated as of September 20, 2010, by and between Harsco Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2010, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(e) (ii)
 
First Supplemental Indenture, dated as of September 20, 2010, by and between Harsco Corporation and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2010, Commission File Number 001-03970).
4(e) (iii)
 
Form of 2.700% Senior Notes due 2015 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2010, Commission File Number 001-03970).
Material Contracts—Credit and Underwriting Agreements
10(a)(i)
 
Amended and Restated Five-Year Credit Agreement, dated March 2, 2012, among Harsco Corporation, the lenders named therein, Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, RBS Securities Inc., as syndication agent, and the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., HSBC Bank USA, National Association, ING Bank N.V., Dublin Branch, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Lloyds TSB Bank PLC, as documentation agents (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 7, 2012, Commission File No. 001-03970).
10(a)(ii)
 
Amendment No. 1, dated September 12, 2013, to the Amended and Restated Five-Year Credit Agreement, dated March 2, 2012, among Harsco Corporation, the lenders named therein, Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, RBS Securities Inc., as syndication agent, and the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., HSBC Bank USA, National Association, ING Bank N.V., Dublin Branch, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Lloyds TSB Bank PLC, as documentation agents (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(a)(iii)
 
Amendment No. 2, dated December 20, 2013, to the Amended and Restated Five-Year Credit Agreement, dated March 2, 2012, among Harsco Corporation, the lenders named therein, Citibank, N.A., as administrative agent, RBS Securities Inc., as syndication agent, and the Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi UFJ, Ltd., HSBC Bank USA, National Association, ING Bank N.V., Dublin Branch, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. and Lloyds TSB Bank PLC, as documentation agents.
Material Contracts—Management Contracts and Compensatory Plans
10(b)
 
Harsco Corporation Supplemental Retirement Benefit Plan as amended and restated January 1, 2009 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the period ended December 31, 2008, Commission File Number 001-03970).

108


10(c)
 
Trust Agreement between Harsco Corporation and Dauphin Deposit Bank and Trust Company dated July 1, 1987 relating to the Supplemental Retirement Benefit Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1987, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(d)
 
Harsco Corporation Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan as amended (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1991, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(e)
 
Trust Agreement between Harsco Corporation and Dauphin Deposit Bank and Trust Company dated November 22, 1988 relating to the Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1988, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(f)
 
Special Supplemental Retirement Benefit Agreement for D. C. Hathaway (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 1988, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(g)
 
Harsco Corporation 1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan, as Amended and Restated effective March 12, 2012 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 13, 2012, Commission File No. 001-03970).
10(h)
 
Authorization, Terms and Conditions of the Annual Incentive Awards, as Amended and Restated April 27, 2004, under the 1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 23, 2006, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(i)
 
Authorization, Terms and Conditions of Other Performance Awards under the 1995 Executive Incentive Compensation Plan (as amended and restated) (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated March 22, 2007, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(j)
 
Restricted Stock Units Agreement (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 23, 2007, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(k)
 
Restricted Stock Units Agreement for International Employees (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2007, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(l)
 
Stock Option Contract (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated January 31, 2011, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(m)
 
Harsco Corporation 2013 Equity and Incentive Compensation Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 26, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(n)
 
Harsco Corporation Form of Restricted Stock Units Agreement (effective for grants on and after May 10, 2013) (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(o)
 
Harsco Corporation Form of Stock Appreciation Rights Agreement (effective for grants on and after May 10, 2013) (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(p)(i)
 
Harsco Corporation 1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan as Amended and Restated at January 27, 2004 (incorporated by reference to Proxy Statement dated March 23, 2004 on Exhibit A, pages A-1 through A-9, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(p)(ii)
 
Amendment No. 1 to the Harsco Corporation 1995 Non-Employee Directors' Stock Plan (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2008, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(q)
 
Harsco Corporation Form of Restricted Stock Units Agreement (Directors) (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated April 26, 2005, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(r)
 
Harsco Corporation Deferred Compensation Plan for Non-Employee Directors (as Amended and Restated as of December 31, 2008) (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2008, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(s)
 
Settlement and Consulting Agreement (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2003, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(t)
 
Harsco Non-Qualified Retirement Savings & Investment Plan Part B—Amendment and Restatement as of January 1, 2009 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2008, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(u)
 
Form of Change in Control Severance Agreement (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(v)
 
Notification Letter to Henry W. Knueppel, dated March 7, 2012 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2012, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(w)
 
Separation and Release Agreement, dated March 9, 2012, between the Company and Salvatore D. Fazzolari (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2012, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(x)
 
Notification Letter to Patrick Decker dated July 28, 2012 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2012, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(y)
 
Separation Agreement, dated as of December 5, 2012, by and between the Company and Stephen J. Schnoor (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 11, 2012, Commission File Number 001-03970).

109


10(z)
 
Release Agreement, dated as of December 5, 2012, by and between the Company and Stephen J. Schnoor (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated December 11, 2012, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(aa)
 
Notification Letter to F. Nicholas Grasberger, III dated March 20, 2013 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(bb)
 
Retention and Severance Agreement, made as of October 27, 2013, by and between Harsco Corporation and Mark Kimmel (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2013, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(cc)
 
Notification Letter to David Everitt dated March 14, 2014 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended March 31, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(dd)
 
Notification Letter to F. N. Grasberger dated April 8, 2014 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(ee)
 
Notification Letter to C. Stump dated April 29, 2014 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(ff)
 
Notification Letter to F. N. Grasberger dated August 1, 2014 (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(gg)
 
Form of Restricted Stock Units Agreement (effective for grants on or after April 28, 2014) (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(hh)
 
Form of Stock Appreciation Rights Agreement (effective for grants on or after April 28, 2014) (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(ii)
 
Form of Performance Share Units Agreement (incorporated by reference to the Company's Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended June 30, 2014, Commission File Number 001-03970).
Director Indemnity Agreements
10(jj)(i)
 
K. G. Eddy (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(ii)
 
T. D. Growcock (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(iii)
 
H. W. Knueppel (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(iv)
 
S. E. Graham (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(v)
 
D. C. Everitt (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(vi)
 
J. M. Loree (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(vii)
 
J. F. Earl (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(viii)
 
E. La Roche (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
10(jj)(ix)
 
P. C. Widman (incorporated by reference to the Company's Current Report on Form 8-K dated August 27, 2004, same as shown for K. G. Eddy, Commission File Number 001-03970).
12
 
Computation of Ratios of Earnings to Fixed Charges.
21
 
Subsidiaries of the Registrant.
23
 
Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
31.1
 
Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Chief Executive Officer).
31.2
 
Certification Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) and 15d-14(a) as Adopted Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Chief Financial Officer).
32
 
Certifications Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer).
101
 
The following financial statements from Harsco Corporation's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2014, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on March 2, 2015, formatted in XBRL (eXtensible Business Reporting Language): (i) the Consolidated Balance Sheets; (ii) the Consolidated Statements of Operations; (iii) the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows; (iv) the Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity; (v) the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) and (vi) the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.
Exhibits other than those listed above are omitted for the reason that they are either not applicable or not material.


110


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
 
HARSCO CORPORATION
(Registrant)
DATE
March 2, 2015
 
/s/ PETER F. MINAN
 
 
 
Peter F. Minan
Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)
DATE
March 2, 2015
 
/s/ CHRISTOPHER J. STUMP
 
 
 
Christopher J. Stump
Corporate Controller
(Principal Accounting Officer)
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
Signature
 
Capacity
 
Date
/s/ F. NICHOLAS GRASBERGER, III
 
President, Chief Executive Officer and Director (Principal Executive Officer)
 
March 2, 2015
F. Nicholas Grasberger, III
 
 
 
 
/s/ PETER F. MINAN
 
Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer)
 
March 2, 2015
Peter F. Minan
 
 
 
 
/s/ DAVID C. EVERITT
 
Non-Executive Chairman and Director
 
March 2, 2015
David C. Everitt
 
 
 
 
/s/ JAMES F. EARL
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
James F. Earl
 
 
 
 
/s/ KATHY G. EDDY
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
Kathy G. Eddy
 
 
 
 
/s/ STUART E. GRAHAM
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
Stuart E. Graham
 
 
 
 
/s/ TERRY D. GROWCOCK
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
Terry D. Growcock
 
 
 
 
/s/ HENRY W. KNUEPPEL
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
Henry W. Knueppel
 
 
 
 
/s/ ELAINE LA ROCHE
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
Elaine La Roche
 
 
 
 
/s/ JAMES M. LOREE
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
James M. Loree
 
 
 
 
/s/ PHILLIP C. WIDMAN
 
Director
 
March 2, 2015
Phillip C. Widman
 
 
 
 

111