ITRI 10Q 9.30.13
Table of Contents

 
 
 
 
 
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
 
 
 
FORM 10-Q
 
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the quarterly period ended September 30, 2013

OR
 
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the transition period from             to             
Commission file number 000-22418
ITRON, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
 
Washington
 
91-1011792
(State of Incorporation)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification Number)
2111 N Molter Road, Liberty Lake, Washington 99019
(509) 924-9900
(Address and telephone number of registrant’s principal executive offices)
 
 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark 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  x    No  ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.
 
 
Large accelerated filer
x
Accelerated filer
¨
 
 
Non-accelerated filer
o  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
Smaller reporting company
¨
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x
As of October 31, 2013 there were outstanding 39,149,045 shares of the registrant’s common stock, no par value, which is the only class of common stock of the registrant.
 


Table of Contents

Itron, Inc.
Table of Contents
 
 
 
 
Page    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 1A: Risk Factors
 
 
 
 
 
 
Item 6: Exhibits
 
 
 
 


Table of Contents

PART I: FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Item 1: Financial Statements (Unaudited)
ITRON, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
Revenues
$
495,491

 
$
504,063

 
$
1,425,202

 
$
1,654,843

Cost of revenues
345,407

 
332,266

 
975,407

 
1,103,196

Gross profit
150,084

 
171,797

 
449,795

 
551,647

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Sales and marketing
44,050

 
44,913

 
138,448

 
145,616

Product development
41,495

 
43,299

 
129,184

 
134,295

General and administrative
32,260

 
30,743

 
104,172

 
100,763

Amortization of intangible assets
10,388

 
11,929

 
31,379

 
35,867

Restructuring expense
28,379

 
(5,054
)
 
32,777

 
3,455

Total operating expenses
156,572

 
125,830

 
435,960

 
419,996

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)
(6,488
)
 
45,967

 
13,835

 
131,651

Other income (expense)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest income
146

 
297

 
1,401

 
667

Interest expense
(2,847
)
 
(2,551
)
 
(7,521
)
 
(7,594
)
Other income (expense), net
(158
)
 
(1,269
)
 
(2,717
)
 
(4,224
)
Total other income (expense)
(2,859
)
 
(3,523
)
 
(8,837
)
 
(11,151
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income (loss) before income taxes
(9,347
)
 
42,444

 
4,998

 
120,500

Income tax benefit (provision)
2,589

 
(6,547
)
 
3,936

 
(26,740
)
Net income (loss)
(6,758
)
 
35,897

 
8,934

 
93,760

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
590

 
550

 
1,313

 
1,445

Net income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.
$
(7,348
)
 
$
35,347

 
$
7,621

 
$
92,315

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Earnings (loss) per common share - Basic
$
(0.19
)
 
$
0.90

 
$
0.19

 
$
2.32

Earnings (loss) per common share - Diluted
$
(0.19
)
 
$
0.89

 
$
0.19

 
$
2.31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic
39,127

 
39,472

 
39,325

 
39,756

Weighted average common shares outstanding - Diluted
39,127

 
39,791

 
39,623

 
40,042

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.


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ITRON, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(UNAUDITED)

 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Net income (loss)
$
(6,758
)
 
$
35,897

 
$
8,934

 
$
93,760

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustments
21,853

 
24,596

 
(2,267
)
 
806

Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments, designated as cash flow hedges
(678
)
 
(828
)
 
94

 
(1,677
)
Net hedging loss (gain) reclassified into net income
170

 

 
170

 

Pension plan benefit liability adjustment
185

 
(5
)
 
(12
)
 
40

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
21,530

 
23,763

 
(2,015
)
 
(831
)
Total comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
14,772

 
59,660

 
6,919

 
92,929

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net of tax:
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests
590

 
550

 
1,313

 
1,445

Foreign currency translation adjustments
66

 
69

 
66

 
109

Amounts attributable to noncontrolling interests
656

 
619

 
1,379

 
1,554

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Itron, Inc.
$
14,116

 
$
59,041

 
$
5,540

 
$
91,375

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

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ITRON, INC.
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
(in thousands)
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(unaudited)
 
 
ASSETS
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
122,047

 
$
136,411

Accounts receivable, net
349,292

 
375,326

Inventories
194,702

 
170,719

Deferred tax assets current, net
42,133

 
33,536

Other current assets
108,614

 
104,958

Total current assets
816,788

 
820,950

 
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment, net
249,072

 
255,212

Deferred tax assets noncurrent, net
53,339

 
44,584

Other long-term assets
28,556

 
28,908

Intangible assets, net
204,630

 
238,771

Goodwill
712,710

 
701,016

Total assets
$
2,065,095

 
$
2,089,441

 
 
 
 
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
 
 
 
Current liabilities
 
 
 
Accounts payable
$
202,650

 
$
227,739

Other current liabilities
77,449

 
49,950

Wages and benefits payable
84,571

 
91,802

Taxes payable
13,940

 
9,305

Current portion of debt
24,375

 
18,750

Current portion of warranty
20,102

 
27,115

Unearned revenue
43,953

 
42,712

Total current liabilities
467,040

 
467,373

 
 
 
 
Long-term debt
375,000

 
398,750

Long-term warranty
25,929

 
26,490

Pension plan benefit liability
92,607

 
90,533

Deferred tax liabilities noncurrent, net
11,415

 
16,682

Other long-term obligations
82,664

 
80,100

Total liabilities
1,054,655

 
1,079,928

 
 
 
 
Commitments and contingencies

 

 
 
 
 
Equity
 
 
 
Preferred stock

 

Common stock
1,288,221

 
1,294,213

Accumulated other comprehensive loss, net
(36,333
)
 
(34,384
)
Accumulated deficit
(259,241
)
 
(266,862
)
Total Itron, Inc. shareholders' equity
992,647

 
992,967

Noncontrolling interests
17,793

 
16,546

Total equity
1,010,440

 
1,009,513

Total liabilities and equity
$
2,065,095

 
$
2,089,441

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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ITRON, INC.
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(UNAUDITED)
 
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Operating activities
 
 
 
Net income
$
8,934

 
$
93,760

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
73,749

 
81,856

Stock-based compensation
14,276

 
14,319

Amortization of prepaid debt fees
1,244

 
1,176

Deferred taxes, net
(17,490
)
 
1,505

Restructuring expense (recovery), non-cash
27

 
(4,841
)
Other adjustments, net
(462
)
 
(119
)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of acquisition:
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
21,925

 
46,493

Inventories
(27,833
)
 
(4,619
)
Other current assets
(9,447
)
 
(21,525
)
Other long-term assets
4,719

 
1,624

Accounts payable, other current liabilities, and taxes payable
11,652

 
(39,368
)
Wages and benefits payable
(7,844
)
 
(16,869
)
Unearned revenue
3,418

 
9,201

Warranty
(6,937
)
 
(23,610
)
Other operating, net
(4,054
)
 
(1,980
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
65,877

 
137,003

 
 
 
 
Investing activities
 
 
 
Acquisitions of property, plant, and equipment
(44,548
)
 
(34,278
)
Business acquisitions, net of cash and cash equivalents acquired
(860
)
 
(79,874
)
Other investing, net
3,705

 
4,005

Net cash used in investing activities
(41,703
)
 
(110,147
)
 
 
 
 
Financing activities
 
 
 
Proceeds from borrowings
35,000


70,000

Payments on debt
(53,125
)
 
(101,252
)
Issuance of common stock
3,842

 
3,778

Repurchase of common stock
(23,566
)
 
(40,700
)
Other financing, net
1,765

 
(342
)
Net cash used in financing activities
(36,084
)
 
(68,516
)
 
 
 
 
Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
(2,454
)
 
48

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
(14,364
)
 
(41,612
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
136,411

 
133,086

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
$
122,047

 
$
91,474

 
 
 
 
Non-cash transactions:
 
 
 
Property, plant, and equipment purchased but not yet paid
$
2,249

 
$
5,206

 
 
 
 
Supplemental disclosure of cash flow information:
 
 
 
Cash paid during the period for:
 
 
 
Income taxes, net
$
10,817

 
$
33,368

Interest, net of amounts capitalized
6,276

 
6,386

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these condensed consolidated financial statements.

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ITRON, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
September 30, 2013
(UNAUDITED)
In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” “Itron,” and the “Company” refer to Itron, Inc.

Note 1:    Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

We were incorporated in the state of Washington in 1977. We provide a portfolio of products and services to utilities for the energy and water markets throughout the world.

Financial Statement Preparation
The condensed consolidated financial statements presented in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are unaudited and reflect entries necessary for the fair presentation of the Consolidated Statements of Operations and the Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, the Consolidated Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, and the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012 of Itron, Inc. and its subsidiaries. All entries required for the fair presentation of the financial statements are of a normal recurring nature, except as disclosed.

Certain information and notes normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) have been condensed or omitted pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regarding interim results. These condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the 2012 audited financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the SEC on February 22, 2013. The results of operations for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 are not necessarily indicative of the results expected for the full fiscal year or for any other fiscal period.

Basis of Consolidation
We consolidate all entities in which we have a greater than 50% ownership interest or in which we exercise control over the operations. We use the equity method of accounting for entities in which we have a 50% or less investment and exercise significant influence. Entities in which we have less than a 20% investment and where we do not exercise significant influence are accounted for under the cost method. Intercompany transactions and balances are eliminated upon consolidation.

Noncontrolling Interests
In several of our consolidated international subsidiaries, we have joint venture partners, who are minority shareholders. Although these entities are not wholly-owned by Itron, we consolidate them because we have a greater than 50% ownership interest or because we exercise control over the operations. The noncontrolling interest balance is adjusted each period to reflect the allocation of net income (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interests, as shown in our Consolidated Statements of Operations and our Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss). The noncontrolling interest balance in our Consolidated Balance Sheets represents the proportional share of the equity of the joint venture entities, which is attributable to the minority shareholders.

Business Acquisitions
On May 1, 2012, we completed the acquisition of SmartSynch, Inc. (SmartSynch). SmartSynch provides smart grid solutions that utilize cellular networks for communications.

In January 2011, we completed the acquisition of a software and consulting services company in France, which included contingent and deferred consideration amounts that were paid in the first quarters of 2012 and 2013. See Business Combinations policy below.

Cash and Cash Equivalents
We consider all highly liquid instruments with remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of acquisition to be cash equivalents.

Accounts Receivable and Allowance for Doubtful Accounts
Accounts receivable are recorded for invoices issued to customers in accordance with our contractual arrangements. Interest and late payment fees are minimal. Unbilled receivables are recorded when revenues are recognized upon product shipment or service delivery and invoicing occurs at a later date. We record an allowance for doubtful accounts representing our estimate of the probable losses in accounts receivable at the date of the balance sheet based on our historical experience of bad debts and our specific review

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of outstanding receivables. Accounts receivable are written-off against the allowance when we believe an account, or a portion thereof, is no longer collectible.

Inventories
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market using the first-in, first-out method. Cost includes raw materials and labor, plus applied direct and indirect costs.

Derivative Instruments
All derivative instruments, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value as either assets or liabilities. The components and fair values of our derivative instruments are determined using the fair value measurements of significant other observable inputs (Level 2), as defined by GAAP. The net fair value of our derivative instruments may switch between a net asset and a net liability depending on market circumstances at the end of the period. We include the effect of our counterparty credit risk based on current published credit default swap rates when the net fair value of our derivative instruments are in a net asset position and the effect of our own nonperformance risk when the net fair value of our derivative instruments are in a net liability position.

For any derivative designated as a fair value hedge, the changes in the fair value of the derivative and of the hedged item attributable to the hedged risk are recognized in earnings. For any derivative designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portions of changes in the fair value of the derivative are recorded as a component of other comprehensive income (loss) (OCI) and are recognized in earnings when the hedged item affects earnings. Ineffective portions of cash flow hedges are recognized in other income (expense) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. For a hedge of a net investment, the effective portion of any unrealized gain or loss from the foreign currency revaluation of the hedging instrument is reported in OCI as a net unrealized gain or loss on derivative instruments. Upon termination of a net investment hedge, the net derivative gain/loss will remain in accumulated OCI until such time when earnings are impacted by a sale or liquidation of the associated operations. Ineffective portions of fair value changes or the changes in fair value of derivative instruments that do not qualify for hedging activities are recognized in other income (expense) in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. We classify cash flows from our derivative programs as cash flows from operating activities in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Derivatives are not used for trading or speculative purposes. Our derivatives are with credit-worthy multinational commercial banks, with whom we have master netting agreements; however, our derivative positions are not recorded on a net basis in the consolidated balance sheets. There are no credit-risk-related contingent features within our derivative instruments. Refer to Note 7 and Note 13 for further disclosures of our derivative instruments and their impact on OCI.

Property, Plant, and Equipment
Property, plant, and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets, generally 30 years for buildings and improvements and three to ten years for machinery and equipment, computers and software, and furniture. Leasehold improvements are capitalized and depreciated over the term of the applicable lease, including renewable periods if reasonably assured, or over the useful lives, whichever is shorter. Construction in process represents capital expenditures incurred for assets not yet placed in service. Costs related to internally developed software and software purchased for internal uses are capitalized and are amortized over the estimated useful lives of the assets. Repair and maintenance costs are expensed as incurred. We have no major planned maintenance activities.

We review long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or circumstances indicate the carrying amount of an asset group may not be recoverable. Assets held for sale are classified within other current assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets, are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or fair value less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated. Gains and losses from asset disposals and impairment losses are classified within the Consolidated Statement of Operations according to the use of the asset, except those gains and losses recognized in conjunction with our restructuring activities, which are classified within restructuring expense.

Prepaid Debt Fees
Prepaid debt fees represent the capitalized direct costs incurred related to the issuance of debt and are recorded as noncurrent assets. These costs are amortized to interest expense over the terms of the respective borrowings, including contingent maturity or call features, using the effective interest method, or straight-line method when associated with a revolving credit facility. When debt is repaid early, the related portion of unamortized prepaid debt fees is written off and included in interest expense.

Business Combinations
On the date of acquisition, the assets acquired, liabilities assumed, and any noncontrolling interests in the acquiree are recorded at their fair values. The acquiree's results of operations are also included as of the date of acquisition in our consolidated results. Intangible assets that arise from contractual/legal rights, or are capable of being separated, as well as in-process research and

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development (IPR&D), are measured and recorded at fair value, and amortized over the estimated useful life. IPR&D is not amortized until such time as the associated development projects are completed or terminated. If a development project is completed, the IPR&D is reclassified as a core technology intangible asset and amortized over its estimated useful life. If the development project is terminated, the recorded value of the associated IPR&D is immediately expensed. If practicable, assets acquired and liabilities assumed arising from contingencies are measured and recorded at fair value. If not practicable, such assets and liabilities are measured and recorded when it is probable that a gain or loss has occurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. The residual balance of the purchase price, after fair value allocations to all identified assets and liabilities, represents goodwill. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. Restructuring costs associated with an acquisition are generally expensed in periods subsequent to the acquisition date, and changes in deferred tax asset valuation allowances and acquired income tax uncertainties, including penalties and interest, after the measurement period are recognized as a component of the provision for income taxes. Our acquisitions may include contingent consideration, which require us to recognize the fair value of the estimated liability at the time of the acquisition. Subsequent changes in the estimate of the amount to be paid under the contingent consideration arrangement are recognized in the consolidated statements of operations. Cash payments for contingent or deferred consideration are classified within cash flows from investing activities within the consolidated statements of cash flows.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and intangible assets may result from our acquisitions. We use estimates, including estimates of useful lives of intangible assets, the amount and timing of related future cash flows, and fair values of the related operations, in determining the value assigned to goodwill and intangible assets. Our finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives based on estimated discounted cash flows. IPR&D is considered an indefinite-lived intangible asset and is not subject to amortization until the associated projects are completed or terminated. Finite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at the asset group level when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually, when events or changes in circumstances indicate the asset may be impaired, or at the time when their useful lives are determined to be no longer indefinite.

Goodwill is assigned to our reporting units based on the expected benefit from the synergies arising from each business combination, determined by using certain financial metrics, including the forecasted discounted cash flows associated with each reporting unit.

We test goodwill for impairment each year as of October 1, or more frequently should a significant impairment indicator occur. As part of the impairment test, we may elect to perform an assessment of qualitative factors. If this qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, is less than its carrying amount, or if we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment, we would then proceed with the two-step impairment test. The impairment test involves comparing the fair values of the reporting units to their carrying amounts. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, a second step is required to measure the goodwill impairment loss amount. This second step determines the current fair values of all assets and liabilities of the reporting unit and then compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess.

Determining the fair value of a reporting unit is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. We forecast discounted future cash flows at the reporting unit level using risk-adjusted discount rates and estimated future revenues and operating costs, which take into consideration factors such as existing backlog, expected future orders, supplier contracts, and expectations of competitive and economic environments. We also identify similar publicly traded companies and develop a correlation, referred to as a multiple, to apply to the operating results of the reporting units. These combined fair values are then reconciled to the aggregate market value of our common stock on the date of valuation, while considering a reasonable control premium.

Contingencies
A loss contingency is recorded if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We evaluate, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of the ultimate loss. Loss contingencies that we determine to be reasonably possible, but not probable, are disclosed but not recorded. Changes in these factors and related estimates could materially affect our financial position and results of operations. Legal costs to defend against contingent liabilities are expensed as incurred.

Bonus and Profit Sharing
We have various employee bonus and profit sharing plans, which provide award amounts for the achievement of annual financial and nonfinancial targets. If management determines it is probable that the targets will be achieved, and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, a compensation accrual is recorded based on the proportional achievement of the financial and nonfinancial targets. Although we monitor and accrue expenses quarterly based on our progress toward the achievement of the annual targets,

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the actual results at the end of the year may result in awards that are significantly greater or less than the estimates made in earlier quarters.

Warranty
We offer standard warranties on our hardware products and large application software products. We accrue the estimated cost of new product warranties based on historical and projected product performance trends and costs during the warranty period. Testing of new products in the development stage helps identify and correct potential warranty issues prior to manufacturing. Quality control efforts during manufacturing reduce our exposure to warranty claims. When our quality control efforts fail to detect a fault in one of our products, we experience an increase in warranty claims. We track warranty claims to identify potential warranty trends. If an unusual trend is noted, an additional warranty accrual would be recorded if a failure event is probable and the cost can be reasonably estimated. When new products are introduced, our process relies on historical averages of similar products until sufficient data is available. As actual experience becomes available, it is used to modify the original estimate to ensure the expected warranty costs are within a range of likely outcomes. Management regularly evaluates the sufficiency of the warranty provisions and makes adjustments when necessary. The warranty allowances may fluctuate due to higher than anticipated material, labor, and other costs we may incur to repair or replace projected product failures, and we may incur additional warranty and related expenses in the future with respect to new or established products, which could adversely affect our financial position and results of operations. The long-term warranty balance includes estimated warranty claims beyond one year. Warranty expense is classified within cost of revenues.

Restructuring and Asset Impairments
We record a liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity at its fair value in the period in which the liability is incurred. Employee termination benefits considered postemployment benefits are accrued when the obligation is probable and estimable, such as benefits stipulated by human resource policies and practices or statutory requirements. One-time termination benefits are expensed at the date the employee is notified. If the employee must provide future service greater than 60 days, such benefits are expensed ratably over the future service period. For contract termination costs, we record a liability upon the later of when we terminate a contract in accordance with the contract terms or when we cease using the rights conveyed by the contract.

Asset impairments are determined at the asset group level. An impairment may be recorded for assets that are to be abandoned, are to be sold for less than net book value, or are held for sale in which the estimated proceeds less costs to sell are less than the net book value. We may also recognize impairment on an asset group, which is held and used, when the carrying value is not recoverable and exceeds the asset group's fair value. If an asset group is considered a business, a portion of the Company's goodwill balance is allocated to it based on relative fair value.

Defined Benefit Pension Plans
We sponsor both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans for certain international employees. We recognize a liability for the projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets or an asset for plan assets in excess of the projected benefit obligation. We also recognize the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and recognize as a component of OCI, net of tax, the actuarial gains or losses and prior service costs or credits, if any, that arise during the period but that are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost.

Share Repurchase Plan
We may repurchase up to $50 million of shares of Itron common stock under a twelve-month program, which was authorized by our Board of Directors on March 8, 2013. Share repurchases are made in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions and in accordance with applicable securities laws. Under applicable Washington State law, shares repurchased are retired and not displayed separately as treasury stock on the financial statements; the value of the repurchased shares is deducted from common stock.

Revenue Recognition
Revenues consist primarily of hardware sales, software license fees, software implementation, project management services, installation, consulting, and post-sale maintenance support. Revenues are recognized when (1) persuasive evidence of an arrangement exists, (2) delivery has occurred or services have been rendered, (3) the sales price is fixed or determinable, and (4) collectability is reasonably assured.
The majority of our revenue arrangements involve multiple deliverables, which combine two or more of the following: hardware, meter reading system software, installation, and/or project management services. Revenue arrangements with multiple deliverables are divided into separate units of accounting if the delivered item(s) has value to the customer on a standalone basis and delivery/performance of the undelivered item(s) is probable. The total arrangement consideration is allocated among the separate units of accounting based on their relative fair values and the applicable revenue recognition criteria considered for each unit of accounting. The amount allocable to a delivered item is limited to the amount that we are entitled to collect and that is not contingent upon

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the delivery/performance of additional items. Revenues for each deliverable are then recognized based on the type of deliverable, such as 1) when the products are shipped, 2) services are delivered, 3) percentage-of-completion when implementation services are essential to other deliverables in the arrangement, 4) upon receipt of customer acceptance, or 5) transfer of title and risk of loss. The majority of our revenue is recognized when products are shipped to or received by a customer or when services are provided.
Hardware revenues are recognized at the time of shipment, receipt by the customer, or, if applicable, upon completion of customer acceptance provisions.
Generally, network software is recognized when shipped if all other revenue recognition criteria are met and services are not essential to the functionality of the software. If implementation services are essential to the functionality of the network software, software and implementation revenues are recognized using the percentage-of-completion methodology of contract accounting when project costs are reliably estimated.
If the data collection system does not use standard internet protocols and network design services are deemed complex and extensive, revenue from network software and services is recognized using the units-of-delivery method of contract accounting, as network design services and network software are essential to the functionality of the related hardware (network). This methodology results in the deferral of costs and revenues as professional services and software implementation commence prior to deployment of hardware.

In the unusual instances when we are unable to reliably estimate the cost to complete a contract at its inception, we use the completed contract method of contract accounting. Revenues and costs are recognized upon substantial completion when remaining costs are insignificant and potential risks are minimal.

If we estimate that the completion of a contract component (unit of accounting) will result in a loss, the loss is recognized in the period in which it is estimated. We reevaluate the estimated loss through the completion of the contract component, and adjust the estimated loss for changes in facts and circumstances.

We also enter into multiple deliverable software arrangements that do not include hardware. For this type of arrangement, revenue recognition is dependent upon the availability of vendor specific objective evidence (VSOE) of fair value for each of the deliverables. The lack of VSOE, or the existence of extended payment terms or other inherent risks, may affect the timing of revenue recognition for multiple deliverable software arrangements.
Certain of our revenue arrangements include an extended or noncustomary warranty provision that covers all or a portion of a customer's replacement or repair costs beyond the standard or customary warranty period. Whether or not the extended warranty is separately priced in the arrangement, a portion of the arrangement's total consideration is allocated to this extended warranty deliverable. This revenue is deferred and recognized over the extended warranty coverage period. Extended or noncustomary warranties do not represent a significant portion of our revenue.
We allocate consideration to each deliverable in an arrangement based on its relative selling price. We determine selling price using VSOE, if it exists, otherwise we use third-party evidence (TPE). We define VSOE as a median price of recent standalone transactions that are priced within a narrow range. TPE is determined based on the prices charged by our competitors for a similar deliverable when sold separately. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists for a unit of accounting, we use estimated selling price (ESP) to determine the price at which we would transact if the product or service were regularly sold by us on a standalone basis. Our determination of ESP involves a weighting of several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of the arrangement. The factors considered include the cost to produce the deliverable, the anticipated margin on that deliverable, our ongoing pricing strategy and policies, and the characteristics of the varying markets in which the deliverable is sold.
We analyze the selling prices used in our allocation of arrangement consideration on an annual basis. Selling prices are analyzed on a more frequent basis if a significant change in our business necessitates a more timely analysis or if we experience significant variances in our selling prices.
Unearned revenue is recorded when a customer pays for products or services, but the criteria for revenue recognition have not been met as of the balance sheet date. Unearned revenues of $77.1 million and $74.9 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 related primarily to professional services and software associated with our smart metering contracts, extended or noncustomary warranty, and prepaid post-contract support. Deferred costs are recorded for products or services for which ownership (typically defined as title and risk of loss) has transferred to the customer, but the criteria for revenue recognition have not been met as of the balance sheet date. Deferred costs were $24.2 million and $24.4 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 and are recorded within other assets in the Consolidated Balance Sheets.


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Hardware and software post-sale maintenance support fees are recognized ratably over the life of the related service contract. Shipping and handling costs and incidental expenses billed to customers are recorded as revenue, with the associated cost charged to cost of revenues. We record sales, use, and value added taxes billed to our customers on a net basis.

Product and Software Development Costs
Product and software development costs primarily include employee compensation and third party contracting fees. We do not capitalize product development costs, and we do not generally capitalize software development expenses as the costs incurred are immaterial for the relatively short period of time between technological feasibility and the completion of software development.

Stock-Based Compensation
We measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors, including stock options, stock sold pursuant to our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and the issuance of restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards, based on estimated fair values. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which includes assumptions for the dividend yield, expected volatility, risk-free interest rate, and expected term. For ESPP awards, the fair value is the difference between the market close price of our common stock on the date of purchase and the discounted purchase price. For performance-based restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards with no market conditions, the fair value is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant. For restricted stock units with market conditions, the fair value is estimated at the date of award using a Monte Carlo simulation model, which includes assumptions for dividend yield and expected volatility for our common stock and the common stock for companies within the Russell 3000 index, as well as the risk-free interest rate and expected term of the awards. We expense stock-based compensation at the date of grant for unrestricted stock awards. For awards with only a service condition, we expense stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, using the straight-line method over the requisite service period for the entire award. For awards with performance and service conditions, if vesting is probable, we expense the stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. For awards with a market condition, we expense the fair value over the requisite service period. Excess tax benefits are credited to common stock when the deduction reduces cash taxes payable. When we have tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost, they are classified as financing cash inflows in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Effective October 1, 2013, we changed the terms of the ESPP to reduce the discount to 5% from the fair market value of the stock at the end of each fiscal quarter. As a result of this change, the ESPP will no longer be considered compensatory, and no compensation expense will be recognized for future sales of our common stock to employees.

Income Taxes
We compute our interim income tax provision through the use of an estimated annual effective tax rate (ETR) applied to year-to-date operating results and specific events that are discretely recognized as they occur. In calculating the estimated annual ETR, we analyze various factors, including the forecasted mix of earnings in domestic and international jurisdictions, new or revised tax legislation and accounting pronouncements, tax credits, state income taxes, adjustments to valuation allowances, and uncertain tax positions, among other items. Discrete items, including the effect of changes in tax laws, tax rates, and certain circumstances with respect to valuation allowances or other unusual or non-recurring tax adjustments, are reflected in the period in which they occur as an addition to, or reduction from, the income tax provision, rather than included in the estimated annual ETR.

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized based upon anticipated future tax consequences, in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate, attributable to: (1) the differences between the financial statement carrying amounts of existing assets and liabilities and their respective income tax bases; and (2) operating loss and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured using enacted tax rates expected to apply to taxable income in the years in which those temporary differences are expected to be recovered or settled. The calculation of our tax liabilities involves applying complex tax regulations in different jurisdictions to our tax positions. The effect on deferred tax assets and liabilities of a change in tax rates is recognized in the period that includes the enactment date. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce the carrying amount of deferred tax assets if it is more likely than not that such assets will not be realized. We do not record tax liabilities on undistributed earnings of international subsidiaries that are permanently reinvested.

We utilize a two step approach to account for uncertain tax positions. A tax position is first evaluated for recognition based on its technical merits. Tax positions that have a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement are then measured to determine amounts to be recognized in the financial statements. This measurement incorporates information about potential settlements with taxing authorities. A previously recognized tax position is derecognized in the first period in which the position no longer meets the more-likely-than-not recognition threshold or upon expiration of the statute of limitations. We classify interest expense and penalties related to uncertain tax positions and interest income on tax overpayments as part of income tax expense.


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Foreign Exchange
Our consolidated financial statements are reported in U.S. dollars. Assets and liabilities of international subsidiaries with non-U.S. dollar functional currencies are translated to U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the balance sheet date, or the last business day of the period, if applicable. Revenues and expenses for each subsidiary are translated to U.S. dollars using a weighted average rate for the relevant reporting period. Translation adjustments resulting from this process are included, net of tax, in OCI. Gains and losses that arise from exchange rate fluctuations for monetary asset and liability balances that are not denominated in an entity’s functional currency are included within other income (expense), net in the Consolidated Statements of Operations. Currency gains and losses of intercompany balances deemed to be long-term in nature or designated as a hedge of the net investment in international subsidiaries are included, net of tax, in OCI.

Fair Value Measurements
For assets and liabilities measured at fair value, the GAAP fair value hierarchy prioritizes the inputs used in different valuation methodologies, assigning the highest priority to unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets and liabilities in actively traded markets (Level 1) and the lowest priority to unobservable inputs (Level 3). Level 2 inputs consist of quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in non-active markets; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs are corroborated by observable market data either directly or indirectly through correlation or other means. Inputs may include yield curves, volatility, credit risks, and default rates.

Use of Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions. These estimates and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Due to various factors affecting future costs and operations, actual results could differ materially from these estimates.

New Accounting Pronouncements
The Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Accounting Standards Update (ASU) 2013.11, "Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists" on July 18, 2013. The ASU requires that an unrecognized tax benefit should be presented as a reduction of a deferred tax asset when settlement in this manner is available under the law. We will adopt this amendment as of January 1, 2014. The result of adoption may be to reclassify certain long-term liabilities to long-term deferred tax assets, and the adoption will not result in a change to the tax provision. Management does not believe that the impact on the balance sheet will be significant.

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Note 2:    Earnings Per Share and Capital Structure

The following table sets forth the computation of basic and diluted earnings per share (EPS):

 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
Net income (loss) available to common shareholders
$
(7,348
)
 
$
35,347

 
$
7,621

 
$
92,315

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average common shares outstanding - Basic
39,127

 
39,472

 
39,325

 
39,756

Dilutive effect of stock-based awards

 
319

 
298

 
286

Weighted average common shares outstanding - Diluted
39,127

 
39,791

 
39,623

 
40,042

Earnings (loss) per common share - Basic
$
(0.19
)
 
$
0.90

 
$
0.19

 
$
2.32

Earnings (loss) per common share - Diluted
$
(0.19
)
 
$
0.89

 
$
0.19

 
$
2.31


Stock-based Awards
For stock-based awards, the dilutive effect is calculated using the treasury stock method. Under this method, the dilutive effect is computed as if the awards were exercised at the beginning of the period (or at time of issuance, if later) and assumes the related proceeds were used to repurchase common stock at the average market price during the period. Related proceeds include the amount the employee must pay upon exercise, future compensation cost associated with the stock award, and the amount of excess tax benefits, if any. Approximately 1.3 million and 1.1 million stock-based awards were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, and approximately 881,000 and 1.2 million stock-based awards were excluded from the calculation of diluted EPS for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, because they were anti-dilutive. These stock-based awards could be dilutive in future periods.

Preferred Stock
We have authorized the issuance of 10 million shares of preferred stock with no par value. In the event of a liquidation, dissolution, or winding up of the affairs of the corporation, whether voluntary or involuntary, the holders of any outstanding preferred stock would be entitled to be paid a preferential amount per share to be determined by the Board of Directors prior to any payment to holders of common stock. There was no preferred stock issued or outstanding at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012.

Stock Repurchase Plan
On March 8, 2013, the Board authorized a twelve-month repurchase program of up to $50 million in shares of our common stock. From March 8, 2013 through September 30, 2013, we have repurchased 559,000 shares of our common stock, totaling $23.6 million, with $26.4 million remaining under the repurchase program. Repurchases are made in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions and in accordance with applicable securities laws. Refer to Part II, Item 2: "Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds" for additional information related to our share repurchase program.
Note 3:    Certain Balance Sheet Components
 
Accounts receivable, net
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Trade receivables (net of allowance of $8,227 and $7,372)
$
316,732

 
$
329,352

Unbilled receivables
32,560

 
45,974

Total accounts receivable, net
$
349,292

 
$
375,326


At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, $3.4 million and $20.0 million, respectively, were recorded within trade receivables as billed but not yet paid by customers, in accordance with contract retainage provisions. At September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, contract retainage amounts that were unbilled and classified as unbilled receivables were $6.6 million and $11.1 million, respectively.

At September 30, 2013, long-term unbilled receivables totaled $2.4 million. These long-term unbilled receivables are classified within other long-term assets, as collection is not anticipated within the following 12 months. We had no long-term billed contract

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retainage receivables at September 30, 2013, as we expect to collect all contract retainage receivables within the following 12 months. We had no long-term unbilled receivables or long-term billed contract retainage receivables at December 31, 2012.

Allowance for doubtful account activity
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
6,948

 
$
5,381

 
$
7,372

 
$
6,049

Provision (release) of doubtful accounts, net
1,290

 
(124
)
 
1,461

 
(414
)
Accounts written-off
(164
)
 
(53
)
 
(467
)
 
(314
)
Effect of change in exchange rates
153

 
151

 
(139
)
 
34

Ending balance
$
8,227

 
$
5,355

 
$
8,227

 
$
5,355

 
Inventories
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Materials
$
112,148

 
$
92,038

Work in process
12,654

 
12,568

Finished goods
69,900

 
66,113

Total inventories
$
194,702

 
$
170,719


Our inventory levels may vary period to period as a result of our factory scheduling and the timing of contract fulfillments, which may include the buildup of materials in preparation for customer orders or finished goods for shipment.

Consigned inventory is held at third-party locations; however, we retain title to the inventory until purchased by the third-party. Consigned inventory, consisting of raw materials and finished goods, was $3.4 million and $5.0 million at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively.

Property, plant, and equipment, net
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Machinery and equipment
$
302,216

 
$
287,791

Computers and software
102,496

 
84,980

Buildings, furniture, and improvements
146,704

 
146,191

Land
25,075

 
25,318

Construction in progress, including purchased equipment
17,970

 
26,097

Total cost
594,461

 
570,377

Accumulated depreciation
(345,389
)
 
(315,165
)
Property, plant, and equipment, net
$
249,072

 
$
255,212


Depreciation expense and capitalized interest
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Depreciation expense
$
14,330

 
$
15,656

 
$
42,370

 
$
45,989

Capitalized interest

 

 
64

 


In conjunction with the upgrade of our global enterprise resource planning (ERP) software systems, we capitalized $64,000 of interest for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. In the third quarter of 2013, we reclassified our ERP software from Construction in progress to Computers and software.

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Note 4:    Intangible Assets

The gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization of our intangible assets, other than goodwill, are as follows:

 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
Gross Assets
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
 
Gross Assets
 
Accumulated
Amortization
 
Net
 
(in thousands)
Core-developed technology
$
426,043

 
$
(348,292
)
 
$
77,751

 
$
407,024

 
$
(332,763
)
 
$
74,261

Customer contracts and relationships
288,347

 
(167,650
)
 
120,697

 
292,252

 
(154,890
)
 
137,362

Trademarks and trade names
72,559

 
(66,445
)
 
6,114

 
72,770

 
(65,090
)
 
7,680

Other
11,091

 
(11,023
)
 
68

 
11,094

 
(11,026
)
 
68

Total intangible assets subject to amortization
798,040

 
(593,410
)
 
204,630

 
783,140

 
(563,769
)
 
219,371

In-process research and development

 
 
 

 
19,400

 
 
 
19,400

Total intangible assets
$
798,040

 
$
(593,410
)
 
$
204,630

 
$
802,540

 
$
(563,769
)
 
$
238,771


A summary of the intangible asset account activity is as follows:

 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance, intangible assets, gross
$
802,540

 
$
749,194

Intangible assets acquired
(1,500
)
 
43,400

Effect of change in exchange rates
(3,000
)
 
1,220

Ending balance, intangible assets, gross
$
798,040

 
$
793,814


Intangible assets acquired in 2012 were related to the SmartSynch acquisition on May 1, 2012, including IPR&D assets that consisted primarily of projects to upgrade the hardware components of cellular communication modules to be compatible with 3G cellular network standards. Upon completion of these projects in March 2013, we performed a qualitative assessment and determined that it was more than likely that the carrying amount of IPR&D was not impaired. Accordingly, the carrying amount of IPR&D was reclassified as core-developed technology and will be amortized, based on the SmartSynch acquisition discounted cash flow valuation model, over its expected useful life of seven years. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the adjustment of $1.5 million to intangible assets acquired is associated with the correction of an error for a long-term revenue contract from the SmartSynch acquisition. See Note 5 for further discussion of the correction of the error and its impact on goodwill.

Intangible assets of our international subsidiaries are recorded in their respective functional currency; therefore, the carrying amounts of intangible assets increase or decrease, with a corresponding change in accumulated OCI, due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates.

Estimated future annual amortization expense is as follows:

 
Years ending December 31,
Estimated Annual
Amortization
 
(in thousands)
2013 (amount remaining at September 30, 2013)
$
10,598

2014
44,189

2015
35,440

2016
27,869

2017
20,718

Beyond 2017
65,816

Total intangible assets, net
$
204,630


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Note 5:    Goodwill

The following table reflects the goodwill balance as of September 30, 2013:

 
Energy
 
Water
 
Total Company
 
(in thousands)
Balance at January 1, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill before impairment
$
859,454

 
$
414,394

 
$
1,273,848

Accumulated impairment losses
(249,502
)
 
(323,330
)
 
(572,832
)
Goodwill, net
609,952

 
91,064

 
701,016

 
 
 
 
 
 
Adjustments of previous acquisition
3,958

 

 
3,958

Effect of change in exchange rates
6,672

 
1,064

 
7,736

 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at September 30, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
Goodwill before impairment
874,566

 
421,266

 
1,295,832

Accumulated impairment losses
(253,984
)
 
(329,138
)
 
(583,122
)
Goodwill, net
$
620,582

 
$
92,128

 
$
712,710


During the second quarter of 2013, we finalized the purchase price allocation related to the SmartSynch acquisition, which was completed on May 1, 2012, and recorded certain adjustments that are reflected as Adjustments of previous acquisition above. These adjustments primarily affected the fair value calculation of certain accrued liabilities associated with specific contracts. Among these adjustments is the correction of an error associated with a long-term revenue contract acquired from SmartSynch. In May 2013, we determined that certain manufacturing costs were not reflected in the model used to value this contract at acquisition. Once these costs were properly added to the total cost and profitability estimates, we determined the total contract would result in a loss of $2.4 million over the contract term. Therefore, we recognized a liability for this expected loss on the contract and made a corresponding adjustment to goodwill. Further, we had previously recognized a customer relationship intangible asset of $1.5 million associated with this contract, with amortization scheduled to begin in 2014 based on the contract's original projected cash flow. Since the contract is in an overall loss position, we determined that the intangible asset had no value. We reduced the value of this intangible asset to zero with a corresponding adjustment to goodwill. In accordance with relevant accounting guidance, we evaluated the materiality of the error from a qualitative and quantitative perspective. Based on such evaluation, we concluded that recognizing the contract liability and adjusting the intangible asset value during the three months ended June 30, 2013 would not be material, quantitatively or qualitatively, to our results of operations for the three months ended June 30, 2013 or our expected full year results of operations for 2013 and would not have had a material impact on our results for the year ended December 31, 2012. Because these adjustments were not material individually or in aggregate, we did not retrospectively adjusted the comparative amounts on the Consolidated Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2012.

Goodwill and accumulated impairment losses associated with our international subsidiaries are recorded in their respective functional currency; therefore, the carrying amounts of these balances increase or decrease, with a corresponding change in accumulated OCI, due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates.
Note 6:    Debt

The components of our borrowings were as follows:

 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Credit facility:
 
 
 
USD denominated term loan
$
264,375

 
$
277,500

Multicurrency revolving line of credit
135,000

 
140,000

Total debt
399,375

 
417,500

Less: current portion of debt
24,375

 
18,750

Long-term debt
$
375,000

 
$
398,750



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Credit Facility
Our credit facility is dated August 5, 2011. The credit facility consists of a $300 million U.S. dollar term loan (the term loan) and a multicurrency revolving line of credit (the revolver) with a principal amount of up to $660 million. Both the term loan and the revolver mature on August 8, 2016. Amounts borrowed under the revolver are classified as long-term, and, during the credit facility term, may be repaid and reborrowed until the revolver's maturity, at which time the revolver will terminate, and all outstanding loans, together with all accrued and unpaid interest, must be repaid. Unused borrowing capacity under the revolver is subject to a commitment fee, which is paid in arrears on the last day of each fiscal quarter, ranging from 0.20% to 0.40% per annum depending on our total leverage ratio as of the most recently ended fiscal quarter. Amounts repaid on the term loan may not be reborrowed. The multicurrency revolving line of credit permits us and certain of our foreign subsidiaries to borrow in U.S. dollars, euros, British pounds, or, with lender approval, other currencies readily convertible into U.S. dollars. All obligations under the credit facility are guaranteed by Itron, Inc. and material U.S. domestic subsidiaries and are secured by a pledge of substantially all of the assets of Itron, Inc. and material U.S. domestic subsidiaries, including a pledge of 100% of the capital stock of material U.S. domestic subsidiaries and up to 66% of the voting stock (100% of the non-voting stock) of their first-tier foreign subsidiaries. In addition, the obligations of any foreign subsidiary who is a foreign borrower, as defined by the credit facility, are guaranteed by the foreign subsidiary and by its direct and indirect foreign parents. The credit facility includes debt covenants, which contain certain financial ratio thresholds and place certain restrictions on the incurrence of debt, investments, and the issuance of dividends. We were in compliance with the debt covenants under the credit facility at September 30, 2013.

Scheduled principal repayments for the term loan are due quarterly in the amounts of $5.6 million through June 2014 and $7.5 million from September 2014 through June 2016, with the remainder due at maturity on August 8, 2016. The term loan may be repaid early in whole or in part, subject to certain minimum thresholds, without penalty.

Under the credit facility, we elect applicable market interest rates for both the term loan and any outstanding revolving loans. We also pay an applicable margin, which is based on our total leverage ratio (as defined in the credit agreement). The applicable rates per annum may be based on either: (1) the LIBOR rate, plus an applicable margin, or (2) the Alternate Base Rate, plus an applicable margin. The Alternate Base Rate election is equal to the greatest of three rates: (i) the prime rate, (ii) the Federal Reserve effective rate plus 1/2 of 1%, or (iii) one month LIBOR plus 1%. At September 30, 2013, the interest rate for both the term loan and the revolver was 1.68% (the LIBOR rate plus a margin of 1.50%).

Total credit facility repayments were as follows:

 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Term loan
$
13,125

 
$
11,252

Multicurrency revolving line of credit (1)
40,000

 
90,000

Total credit facility repayments
$
53,125

 
$
101,252


(1)
We borrowed $35.0 million and $70.0 million under the multicurrency revolving line of credit during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

At September 30, 2013, $135.0 million was outstanding under the credit facility revolver, and $50.1 million was utilized by outstanding standby letters of credit, resulting in $474.9 million available for additional borrowings.

Unamortized prepaid debt fees were as follows:

 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Unamortized prepaid debt fees
$
4,198

 
$
5,367

Note 7:    Derivative Financial Instruments

As part of our risk management strategy, we use derivative instruments to hedge certain foreign currency and interest rate exposures. Refer to Note 1, Note 13, and Note 14 for additional disclosures on our derivative instruments.

The fair values of our derivative instruments are determined using the income approach and significant other observable inputs (also known as “Level 2”). We have used observable market inputs based on the type of derivative and the nature of the underlying

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instrument. The key inputs include interest rate yield curves (swap rates and futures) and foreign exchange spot and forward rates, all of which are available in an active market. We have utilized the mid-market pricing convention for these inputs. We include, as a discount to the derivative asset, the effect of our counterparty credit risk based on current published credit default swap rates when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net asset position. We consider our own nonperformance risk when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net liability position by discounting our derivative liabilities to reflect the potential credit risk to our counterparty through applying a current market indicative credit spread to all cash flows.

The fair values of our derivative instruments at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 were as follows:
 
 
 
 
 
Fair Value
 
 
Balance Sheet Location
 
September 30,
2013
 
December 31,
2012
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
Asset Derivatives
 
 
 
 
Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Other current assets
 
$
50

 
$
146

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liability Derivatives
 
 
 
 
 
 
Derivatives designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap contracts
 
Other current liabilities
 
$
1,552

 
$
629

Interest rate swap contracts
 
Other long-term obligations
 
677

 
2,096

Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments under ASC 815-20
 
 
 
 
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
Other current liabilities
 
69

 
114

Total liability derivatives
 
 
 
$
2,298

 
$
2,839


A summary of the potential effect of netting arrangements on our financial position related to the offsetting of our recognized derivative assets and liabilities under master netting arrangements or similar agreements is as follows:
Offsetting of Derivative Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Amounts Not
Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
 
Gross Amounts of Recognized Assets Presented in
the Consolidated
Balance Sheets
 
Derivative Financial Instruments
 
Cash Collateral Received
 
Net Amount
 
(in thousands)
September 30, 2013
$
50

 
$
(48
)
 
$

 
$
2

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2012
$
146

 
$
(135
)
 
$

 
$
11


Offsetting of Derivative Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross Amounts Not
Offset in the Consolidated Balance Sheets
 
 
 
Gross Amounts of Recognized Liabilities Presented in
the Consolidated
Balance Sheets
 
Derivative Financial Instruments
 
Cash Collateral Pledged
 
Net Amount
 
(in thousands)
September 30, 2013
$
2,298

 
$
(48
)
 
$

 
$
2,250

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2012
$
2,839

 
$
(135
)
 
$

 
$
2,704


Our derivative assets and liabilities consist of foreign exchange forward and interest rate swap contracts with eight counterparties at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012. No derivative asset or liability balance with any of our counterparties was individually significant at September 30, 2013 or December 31, 2012. Our derivative contracts with each of these counterparties exist under agreements that provide for the net settlement of all contracts through a single payment in a single currency in the

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event of default. We have no pledges of cash collateral against our obligations nor have we received pledges of cash collateral from our counterparties under the associated derivative contracts.

OCI during the reporting periods for our derivative and nonderivative hedging instruments, net of tax, was as follows:

 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Net unrealized loss on hedging instruments at January 1,
$
(16,069
)
 
$
(14,380
)
Unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments
94

 
(1,677
)
  Realized losses reclassified into net income (loss)
170

 

Net unrealized loss on hedging instruments at September 30,
$
(15,805
)
 
$
(16,057
)

Included in the net unrealized loss on hedging instruments at September 30, 2013 and 2012 is a loss of $14.4 million, net of tax, related to our nonderivative net investment hedge, which terminated in 2011. This loss on our net investment hedge will remain in accumulated OCI until such time when earnings are impacted by a sale or liquidation of the associated foreign operation.
 
Cash Flow Hedges
As a result of our floating rate debt, we are exposed to variability in our cash flows from changes in the applicable interest rate index. We enter into swaps to achieve a fixed rate of interest on the hedged portion of debt in order to reduce this variability. The objective of these swaps is to reduce the variability of cash flows from increases in the LIBOR-based borrowing rates on our floating rate credit facility. The swaps do not protect us from changes to the applicable margin under our credit facility.

In May 2012, we entered into six forward starting pay-fixed, receive one-month LIBOR interest rate swaps. The interest rate swaps convert $200 million of our LIBOR-based debt from a floating LIBOR interest rate to a fixed interest rate of 1.00% (excluding the applicable margin on the debt) and are effective from July 31, 2013 to August 8, 2016. These cash flow hedges are expected to be highly effective in achieving offsetting cash flows attributable to the hedged risk through the term of the hedge. Consequently, effective changes in the fair value of the interest rate swaps are recorded as a component of OCI and are recognized in earnings when the hedged item affects earnings. The amounts paid or received on the hedges are recognized as adjustments to interest expense. The amount of net losses expected to be reclassified into earnings in the next 12 months is $1.6 million. At September 30, 2013, our LIBOR-based debt balance was $399.4 million.

We will continue to monitor and assess our interest rate risk and may institute additional interest rate swaps or other derivative instruments to manage such risk in the future.

The before-tax effect of our cash flow derivative instruments on the Consolidated Balance Sheets and the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30 were as follows:
 
Derivatives in ASC 815-20
Cash Flow
Hedging Relationships
 
Amount of Gain (Loss)
Recognized in OCI on
Derivative  (Effective
Portion)
 
Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated
OCI into Income (Effective Portion)
 
Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income on
Derivative (Ineffective Portion)
Location
 
Amount
 
Location
 
Amount
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap contracts
 
$
(1,021
)
 
$
(1,332
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
(274
)
 
$

 
Interest expense
 
$

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap contracts
 
$
223

 
$
(2,697
)
 
Interest expense
 
$
(274
)
 
$

 
Interest expense
 
$

 
$


Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Relationships
We are also exposed to foreign exchange risk when we enter into non-functional currency transactions, both intercompany and third-party. At each period-end, non-functional currency monetary assets and liabilities are revalued with the change recorded to other income and expense. We enter into monthly foreign exchange forward contracts (a total of 385 contracts were entered into during the nine months ended September 30, 2013), which are not designated for hedge accounting, with the intent to reduce earnings volatility associated with certain of these non-functional currency assets and liabilities. The notional amounts of the contracts ranged from $251,000 to $11.0 million, offsetting our exposures to the euro, Saudi riyal, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Brazilian real, South African rand, and various other currencies.


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The effect of our foreign exchange forward derivative instruments on the Consolidated Statements of Operations for the three and nine months ended September 30 was as follows:
 
Derivatives Not Designated as
Hedging Instrument under ASC 815-20
 
Gain (Loss) Recognized on Derivatives in Other Income (Expense)
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
(in thousands)
Foreign exchange forward contracts
 
$
882

 
$
(245
)
 
$
125

 
$
(666
)
Note 8:    Defined Benefit Pension Plans

We sponsor both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans for our international employees, primarily in Germany, France, Italy, Indonesia, and Spain, offering death and disability, retirement, and special termination benefits. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually by using the projected unit credit method. The measurement date for the pension plans was December 31, 2012.
Our defined benefit pension plans are denominated in the functional currencies of the respective countries in which the plans are sponsored; therefore, the balances increase or decrease, with a corresponding change in OCI, due to changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Amounts recognized on the Consolidated Balance Sheets consist of:
 
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Assets
 
 
 
Plan assets in other long-term assets
$
231

 
$
227

 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
Current portion of pension plan liability in wages and benefits payable
3,789

 
2,899

Long-term portion of pension plan liability
92,607

 
90,533

 
 
 
 
Net pension plan benefit liability
$
96,165

 
$
93,205


Our asset investment strategy focuses on maintaining a portfolio using primarily insurance funds, which are accounted for as investments and measured at fair value, in order to achieve our long-term investment objectives on a risk adjusted basis. Our general funding policy for these qualified pension plans is to contribute amounts sufficient to satisfy regulatory funding standards of the respective countries for each plan. We contributed $394,000 and $388,000 to the defined benefit pension plans for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The timing of when contributions are made can vary by plan and from year to year. For 2013, assuming that actual plan asset returns are consistent with our expected rate of return, and that interest rates remain constant, we expect to contribute approximately $568,000 to our defined benefit pension plans. We contributed $440,000 to the defined benefit pension plans for the year ended December 31, 2012.
Net periodic pension benefit costs for our plans include the following components:

 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Service cost
$
1,026

 
$
655

 
$
3,018

 
$
2,069

Interest cost
791

 
887

 
2,377

 
2,722

Expected return on plan assets
(79
)
 
(80
)
 
(237
)
 
(247
)
Settlements and other

 
97

 
(814
)
 
97

Amortization of actuarial net loss
249

 
1

 
746

 
5

Amortization of unrecognized prior service costs
17

 
16

 
51

 
50

Net periodic benefit cost
$
2,004

 
$
1,576

 
$
5,141

 
$
4,696


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Note 9:    Stock-Based Compensation

We record stock-based compensation expense for awards of stock options, stock sold pursuant to our ESPP, and the issuance of restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards. We expense stock-based compensation primarily using the straight-line method over the requisite service period. Capitalized stock-based compensation amounts were not material for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012. For the three and nine months ended September 30, stock-based compensation expense and the related tax benefit were as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Stock options
$
537

 
$
333

 
$
1,529

 
$
942

Restricted stock units
3,258

 
4,390

 
11,651

 
12,281

Unrestricted stock awards
204

 
179

 
606

 
589

ESPP
155

 
161

 
490

 
507

Total stock-based compensation
$
4,154

 
$
5,063

 
$
14,276

 
$
14,319

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Related tax benefit
$
1,085

 
$
1,358

 
$
3,838

 
$
3,922


We issue new shares of common stock upon the exercise of stock options or when vesting conditions on restricted stock units are fully satisfied.

Subject to stock splits, dividends, and other similar events, 3,500,000 shares of common stock are reserved and authorized for issuance under our 2010 Stock Incentive Plan (Stock Incentive Plan). Awards consist of stock options, restricted stock units, and unrestricted stock awards. At September 30, 2013, 453,869 shares were available for grant under the Stock Incentive Plan. The Stock Incentive Plan shares are subject to a fungible share provision such that, with respect to grants made after December 31, 2009, the authorized share reserve is reduced by (i) one share for every one share subject to a stock option or share appreciation right granted under the Plan and (ii) 1.7 shares for every one share of common stock that was subject to an award other than an option or stock appreciation right.

Stock Options
Options to purchase our common stock are granted to employees and members of the Board of Directors with an exercise price equal to the market close price of the stock on the date the Board of Directors approves the grant. Options generally become exercisable in three equal annual installments beginning one year from the date of grant and generally expire 10 years from the date of grant. Compensation expense is recognized only for those options expected to vest, with forfeitures estimated based on our historical experience and future expectations.

The fair values of stock options granted were estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model with the following weighted average assumptions:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013 (1)
 
2012 (1)
 
2013
 
2012
Dividend yield
%
 
%
 
%
 
%
Expected volatility
%
 
%
 
38.1
%
 
42.7
%
Risk-free interest rate
%
 
%
 
1.0
%
 
0.9
%
Expected term (years)

 

 
5.45

 
5.14


(1) 
There were no employee stock options granted for the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

Expected volatility is based on a combination of the historical volatility of our common stock and the implied volatility of our traded options for the related expected term. We believe this combined approach is reflective of current and historical market conditions and is an appropriate indicator of expected volatility. The risk-free interest rate is the rate available as of the award date on zero-coupon U.S. government issues with a term equal to the expected life of the award. The expected life is the weighted average expected life of an award based on the period of time between the date the award is granted and the estimated date the award will be fully exercised. Factors considered in estimating the expected life include historical experience of similar awards,

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contractual terms, vesting schedules, and expectations of future employee behavior. We have not paid dividends in the past and do not plan to pay dividends in the foreseeable future.

A summary of our stock option activity for the nine months ended September 30 is as follows:
 
 
Shares
 
Weighted
Average Exercise
Price per Share
 
Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual Life
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value(1)
 
Weighted
Average Grant
Date Fair Value
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(years)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Outstanding, January 1, 2012
1,109

 
$
55.97

 
4.51
 
$
2,323

 
 
Granted
54

 
48.23

 
 
 
 
 
$
18.64

Exercised
(50
)
 
22.12

 
 
 
$
972

 
 
Expired
(83
)
 
60.06

 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, September 30, 2012
1,030

 
$
56.87

 
4.35
 
$
3,127

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, January 1, 2013
1,137

 
$
54.06

 
4.81
 
$
3,815

 
 
Granted
128

 
42.76

 
 
 
 
 
$
15.44

Exercised
(53
)
 
22.40

 
 
 
$
1,067

 
 
Expired
(11
)
 
49.04

 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, September 30, 2013
1,201

 
$
54.32

 
4.83
 
$
2,090

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Exercisable, September 30, 2013
876

 
$
58.45

 
3.26
 
$
1,798

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Expected to vest, September 30, 2013
308

 
$
43.17

 
9.07
 
$
278

 
 

(1) 
The aggregate intrinsic value of outstanding stock options represents amounts that would have been received by the optionees had all in- the-money options been exercised on that date. Specifically, it is the amount by which the market value of Itron’s stock exceeded the exercise price of the outstanding in-the-money options before applicable income taxes, based on our closing stock price on the last business day of the period. The aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the period is calculated based on our stock price at the date of exercise.

As of September 30, 2013, total unrecognized stock-based compensation expense related to nonvested stock options was approximately $3.6 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 2.1 years.

Restricted Stock Units
Certain employees, senior management, and members of the Board of Directors receive restricted stock units as a component of their total compensation. The fair value of a restricted stock unit is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant. Restricted stock units generally vest over a three year period. Compensation expense, net of forfeitures, is recognized over the requisite service period.

Subsequent to vesting, the restricted stock units are converted into shares of our common stock on a one-for-one basis and issued to employees. We are entitled to an income tax deduction in an amount equal to the taxable income reported by the employees upon vesting of the restricted stock units.

Prior to 2013, the performance-based restricted stock units issued under the Long-Term Performance Restricted Stock Unit Award Agreement (Performance Award Agreement) were determined based on the attainment of certain performance goals after the end of the one-year performance period. During the year, if management determined that it was probable that the targets would be achieved, compensation expense, net of forfeitures, was recognized on a straight-line basis over the annual performance and subsequent vesting period for each separately vesting portion of the award. Performance awards typically vested and were released in three equal installments at the end of each year following attainment of the performance goals. For U.S. participants who retire during the vesting period, unvested restricted stock units immediately vest at the date of retirement. For the 2012 performance awards, no awards became eligible for vesting as minimum performance thresholds for the 2012 performance year were not met.

For 2013, the performance-based restricted stock units to be issued under the Performance Award Agreement are determined based on (1) our achievement of specified non-GAAP EPS targets, as established at the beginning of each year for each of the calendar years contained in the performance periods (2-year and 3-year awards) (the performance condition) and (2) our total shareholder return (TSR) relative to the TSR attained by companies that are included in the Russell 3000 Index during the performance periods (the market condition). Compensation expense, net of forfeitures, is recognized on a straight-line basis, and the units vest upon

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achievement of the performance condition, provided participants are employed by Itron at the end of the respective performance periods. For U.S. participants who retire during the performance period, a pro-rated number of restricted stock units (based on the number of days of employment during the performance period) immediately vest based on the attainment of the performance goals as assessed after the end of the performance period.
Depending on the level of achievement of the performance condition, the actual number of shares to be earned ranges between 0% and 160% of the awards originally granted. At the end of the 2-year and 3-year performance periods, if the performance conditions are achieved at or above threshold, the number of shares earned is further adjusted by a TSR multiplier payout percentage, which ranges between 75% and 125%, based on the market condition. Therefore, based on the attainment of the performance and market conditions, the actual number of shares that vest may range from 0% to 200% of the awards originally granted. Due to the presence of the TSR multiplier market condition, we utilize a Monte Carlo valuation model to determine the fair value of the awards at the grant date. This pricing model uses multiple simulations to evaluate the probability of our achievement of various stock price levels to determine our expected TSR performance ranking. The weighted-average assumptions used to estimate the fair value of performance-based restricted stock units awarded and the resulting weighted average fair-value are as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
September 30, 2013
(1)
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30, 2013
Dividend yield
%
 
%
Expected volatility
%
 
39.1
%
Risk-free interest rate
%
 
0.3
%
Expected term (years)

 
2.53

 
 
 
 
Weighted-average fair value
$

 
$
45.03


(1) 
There were no long-term performance restricted stock units granted for the three months ended September 30, 2013

Expected volatility is based on the historical volatility of our common stock for the related expected term. We believe this approach is reflective of current and historical market conditions and is an appropriate indicator of expected volatility. The risk-free interest rate is the rate available as of the award date on zero-coupon U.S. government issues with a term equal to the expected term of the award. The expected term is the term of an award based on the period of time between the date of the award and the date the award is expected to vest. The expected term assumption is based upon the plan's performance period as of the date of the award. We have not paid dividends in the past and do not plan to pay dividends in the foreseeable future.

The following table summarizes restricted stock unit activity for the nine months ended September 30:

 
Number of
Restricted Stock Units
 
Weighted
Average  Grant
Date Fair Value
 
Aggregate
Intrinsic Value(1)
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
Outstanding, January 1, 2012
625

 
 
 
 
Granted(2)
452

 
$
47.29

 
 
Released
(207
)
 
 
 
$
12,835

Forfeited
(34
)
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, September 30, 2012
836

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, January 1, 2013
774

 
 
 
 
Granted(2)
255

 
$
42.51

 
 
Released
(260
)
 
 
 
$
13,860

Forfeited
(27
)
 
 
 
 
Outstanding, September 30, 2013
742

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Vested but not released, September 30, 2013
29

 
 
 
$
1,256

 
 
 
 
 
 
Expected to vest, September 30, 2013
661

 
 
 
$
28,297


(1) 
The aggregate intrinsic value is the market value of the stock, before applicable income taxes, based on the closing price on the stock release dates or at the end of the period for restricted stock units expected to vest.


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(2) 
Restricted stock units granted in 2012 and 2013 do not include awards under the Performance Award Agreement for the respective years, as these awards are not granted until final attainment of performance goals has been determined at the conclusion of the performance period, which had not occurred as of September 30, 2012 and 2013, respectively.

At September 30, 2013, unrecognized compensation expense on restricted stock units was $19.7 million, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted average period of approximately 1.7 years.

Unrestricted Stock Awards
We grant unrestricted stock awards to members of our Board of Directors as part of their compensation. Awards are fully vested and expensed when granted. The fair value of unrestricted stock awards is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant.

The following table summarizes unrestricted stock award activity for the three and nine months ended September 30:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
Shares of unrestricted stock granted
5

 
4

 
14

 
14

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average grant date fair value per share
$
42.83

 
$
41.41

 
$
44.50

 
$
41.16


Employee Stock Purchase Plan
Under the terms of the ESPP, employees can deduct up to 10% of their regular cash compensation to purchase our common stock at a 15% discount from the fair market value of the stock at the end of each fiscal quarter, subject to other limitations under the plan. The sale of the stock to the employees occurs at the beginning of the subsequent quarter. Effective October 1, 2013, we changed the terms of the ESPP to reduce the discount to 5% from the fair market value of the stock at the end of each fiscal quarter. As a result of this change, the ESPP will no longer be considered compensatory, and no compensation expense will be recognized for future sales of our common stock to employees.

The following table summarizes ESPP activity for the three and nine months ended September 30:

 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands, except per share data)
Shares of stock sold to employees(1)
23

 
23

 
70

 
76

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Weighted average fair value per ESPP award(2)
$
6.42

 
$
6.47

 
$
6.61

 
$
6.52


(1) 
Stock sold to employees during each fiscal quarter under the ESPP is associated with the offering period ending on the last day of the previous fiscal quarter.

(2) 
Relating to awards associated with the offering periods during the three and nine months ended September 30.

At September 30, 2013, all compensation cost associated with the ESPP had been recognized. There were approximately 530,000 shares of common stock available for future issuance under the ESPP at September 30, 2013.
Note 10:    Income Taxes

Our tax provisions as a percentage of income (loss) before tax typically differ from the federal statutory rate of 35%, and may vary from period to period, due to fluctuations in the forecasted mix of earnings in domestic and international jurisdictions, new or revised tax legislation and accounting pronouncements, tax credits, state income taxes, adjustments to valuation allowances, and uncertain tax positions, among other items.

Our tax benefit for the first nine months of 2013 reflects the favorable discrete tax benefit for the retroactive extension of the 2012 research and experimentation credit in the amount of $4.0 million. The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law on January 2, 2013 and extended several business tax provisions including the research and experimentation credit. Our annual estimated effective tax rate for 2013 was favorably impacted by a higher percentage of projected earnings in foreign jurisdictions with tax rates below 35%, the benefit of certain interest expense deductions, and an election under U.S. Internal Revenue Code

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Section 338 with respect to a foreign acquisition in 2007. Accordingly, our 2013 annual estimated effective tax rate is lower than our 2012 annual estimated effective tax rate.

Our tax provision in 2012 was lower than the federal statutory rate of 35% due to projected earnings in tax jurisdictions with rates lower than 35%, the benefit of certain interest expense deductions, and an election under U.S. Internal Revenue Code Section 338 with respect to a foreign acquisition in 2007.

We classify interest expense and penalties related to unrecognized tax liabilities and interest income on tax overpayments as components of income tax expense. The net interest and penalties expense recognized is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Net interest and penalties expense
$
453

 
$
378

 
$
792

 
$
643


Accrued interest and penalties recorded are as follows:

 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Accrued interest
$
3,459

 
$
3,095

Accrued penalties
3,390

 
3,030


Unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions and the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rate are as follows:
 
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Unrecognized tax benefits related to uncertain tax positions
$
27,558

 
$
26,433

The amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect our effective tax rate
26,747

 
25,852


We believe it is reasonably possible that our unrecognized tax benefits may decrease by approximately $3.0 million within the next twelve months due to the expiration of the statute of limitations. At September 30, 2013, we are not able to reasonably estimate the timing of future cash flows related to our uncertain tax positions.
Note 11:    Commitments and Contingencies

Guarantees and Indemnifications
We are often required to obtain standby letters of credit (LOCs) or bonds in support of our obligations for customer contracts. These standby LOCs or bonds typically provide a guarantee to the customer for future performance, which usually covers the installation phase of a contract and may, on occasion, cover the operations and maintenance phase of outsourcing contracts.


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Table of Contents

Our available lines of credit, outstanding standby LOCs, and bonds are as follows:
 
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
Credit facilities(1)
 
 
 
Multicurrency revolving line of credit
$
660,000

 
$
660,000

Long-term borrowings
(135,000
)
 
(140,000
)
Standby LOCs issued and outstanding
(50,079
)
 
(54,328
)
Net available for additional borrowings and LOCs
$
474,921

 
$
465,672

 
 
 
 
Unsecured multicurrency revolving lines of credit with various financial institutions
 
 
 
Multicurrency revolving lines of credit
$
116,878

 
$
67,308

Standby LOCs issued and outstanding
(31,611
)
 
(29,906
)
Short-term borrowings(2)
(2,304
)
 
(851
)
Net available for additional borrowings and LOCs
$
82,963

 
$
36,551

 
 
 
 
Unsecured surety bonds in force
$
123,699

 
$
164,820


(1) 
See Note 6 for details regarding our secured credit facilities.
(2) 
Short-term borrowings are included in "Other current liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

In the event any such standby LOC or bond is called, we would be obligated to reimburse the issuer of the standby LOC or bond; however, we do not believe that any outstanding LOC or bond will be called.

We generally provide an indemnification related to the infringement of any patent, copyright, trademark, or other intellectual property right on software or equipment within our sales contracts, which indemnifies the customer from and pays the resulting costs, damages, and attorney’s fees awarded against a customer with respect to such a claim provided that (a) the customer promptly notifies us in writing of the claim and (b) we have the sole control of the defense and all related settlement negotiations. We may also provide an indemnification to our customers for third party claims resulting from damages caused by the negligence or willful misconduct of our employees/agents in connection with the performance of certain contracts. The terms of our indemnifications generally do not limit the maximum potential payments. It is not possible to predict the maximum potential amount of future payments under these or similar agreements.

Legal Matters
We are subject to various legal proceedings and claims of which the outcomes are subject to significant uncertainty. Our policy is to assess the likelihood of any adverse judgments or outcomes related to legal matters, as well as ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of the liability required, if any, for these contingencies is made after an analysis of each known issue. A liability is recorded and charged to operating expense when we determine that a loss is probable and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Additionally, we disclose contingencies for which a material loss is reasonably possible, but not probable.

In 2010 and 2011, Transdata Incorporated (Transdata) filed lawsuits against four of our customers, CenterPoint Energy (CenterPoint), TriCounty Electric Cooperative, Inc. (Tri-County), San Diego Gas & Electric Company (San Diego), and Texas-New Mexico Power Company (TNMP), as well as several other utilities, alleging infringement of three patents owned by Transdata related to the use of an antenna in a meter. Pursuant to our contractual obligations with our customers, we agreed, subject to certain exceptions, to indemnify and defend them in these lawsuits. The complaints seek unspecified damages as well as injunctive relief. CenterPoint, Tri-County, San Diego, and TNMP have denied all of the substantive allegations and filed counterclaims seeking a declaratory judgment that the patents are invalid and not infringed. In December 2011, the Judicial Panel on Multi-District Litigation consolidated all of these cases in the Western District of Oklahoma for pretrial proceedings. On April 17, 2011, the Oklahoma court stayed the litigation pending the resolution of re-examination proceedings in the United States Patent and Trademark Office (U.S. PTO). The U.S. PTO has issued re-examination certificates confirming the patentability of the original claims and allowing certain new claims added by TransData. The parties conducted a claim construction hearing on February 5, 2013 on one claim term -- "electric meter circuitry." After initially adopting defendants' proposed construction of the term, the Court granted TransData's motion for reconsideration by order of June 25, 2013, and has adopted TransData's proposed construction. On October 1, 2013, the Court issued an order construing other claim terms. Fact discovery is currently scheduled to close on March 31, 2014, with experts' reports to follow. No trials are scheduled. We do not believe this matter will have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition, although an unfavorable outcome could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations for the period in which such a loss is recognized.


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Table of Contents

In a series of cases, approximately 300 former employees of Itron Sistemas e Technologia Ltda. (Itron Brazil), the majority of whose employment contracts were terminated in 2011, have sued Itron Brazil seeking payment of overtime and salary differential and alleging that the assumption of the employment relationship by Itron Brazil constituted illegal outsourcing under Brazilian law. In 2008, Itron Brazil entered into an agreement to provide installation and maintenance services to one of its customers and, to perform such services, hired over 800 employees of the previous provider of such services. In 2011, Itron Brazil determined to terminate the contract with its customer, which led to the termination of approximately 870 employees. Under applicable statutes of limitation, most additional employee claims must have been brought prior to October 31, 2013. Itron Brazil intends to vigorously defend these cases, but the ultimate outcome of the cases cannot be determined at this time.

The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to various employment-related proceedings in jurisdictions where it does business. None of the proceedings are individually material to the Company, and management believes that the Company has made adequate provision such that the ultimate disposition of the proceedings will not materially affect the Company's business or financial condition.

On October 31, 2013, we received a claim from one of our customers relating to alleged defects in meters sold to this customer since the year 2000. The customer asserts that it should be compensated for product and other related costs. Due to the timing of the receipt of this claim, Itron is not yet able to estimate a potential range of loss. Currently, we do not believe that the outcome of this matter will have a material adverse effect on our business or financial condition, although an unfavorable outcome could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations for the period in which such a loss is recognized.

Warranty
A summary of the warranty accrual account activity is as follows:

 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
50,632

 
$
66,368

 
$
53,605

 
$
79,536

New product warranties
1,761

 
1,996

 
4,583

 
7,632

Other changes/adjustments to warranties
1,354

 
(1,552
)
 
6,992

 
509

Claims activity
(8,283
)
 
(12,050
)
 
(18,671
)
 
(31,625
)
Effect of change in exchange rates
567

 
925

 
(478
)
 
(365
)
Ending balance
46,031

 
55,687

 
46,031

 
55,687

Less: current portion of warranty
20,102

 
32,834

 
20,102

 
32,834

Long-term warranty
$
25,929

 
$
22,853

 
$
25,929

 
$
22,853


Total warranty expense is classified within cost of revenues and consists of new product warranties issued, costs related to extended warranty contracts, and other changes and adjustments to warranties. Warranty expense for the three and nine months ended September 30 is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Total warranty expense
$
3,115

 
$
444

 
$
11,575

 
$
8,141


Warranty expense increased during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the same periods in 2012. Warranty expense during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012 reflected a $5.0 million adjustment, which reduced a warranty accrual, originally recorded in 2011, as a result of lower than estimated replacements.




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Table of Contents

Unearned Revenue Related to Extended Warranty
A summary of changes to unearned revenue for extended warranty contracts is as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance
$
33,395

 
$
29,011

 
$
31,960

 
$
24,448

Unearned revenue for new extended warranties
1,010

 
2,080

 
3,635

 
7,269

Unearned revenue recognized
(597
)
 
(351
)
 
(1,592
)
 
(982
)
Effect of change in exchange rates
55

 
95

 
(140
)
 
100

Ending balance
33,863

 
30,835

 
33,863

 
30,835

Less: current portion of unearned revenue for extended warranty
2,454

 
1,800

 
2,454

 
1,800

Long-term unearned revenue for extended warranty within Other long-term obligations
$
31,409

 
$
29,035

 
$
31,409

 
$
29,035


Health Benefits
We are self insured for a substantial portion of the cost of our U.S. employee group health insurance. We purchase insurance from a third party, which provides individual and aggregate stop-loss protection for these costs. Each reporting period, we expense the costs of our health insurance plan including paid claims, the change in the estimate of incurred but not reported (IBNR) claims, taxes, and administrative fees (collectively, the plan costs).

Plan costs are as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Plan costs
$
6,141

 
$
7,441

 
$
16,641

 
$
20,319


The IBNR accrual, which is included in wages and benefits payable, is as follows:

 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
(in thousands)
IBNR accrual
$
2,323

 
$
2,552


Our IBNR accrual and expenses may fluctuate due to the number of plan participants, claims activity, and deductible limits. For our employees located outside of the United States, health benefits are provided primarily through governmental social plans, which are funded through employee and employer tax withholdings.
Note 12:     Restructuring

2011 Projects
During the fourth quarter of 2011, we announced the approval of projects to restructure our manufacturing operations to increase efficiency and lower our cost of manufacturing. We began implementing these projects in the fourth quarter of 2011.

As of September 30, 2013, we have substantially completed these restructuring projects. We do not anticipate substantial expenses related to these restructuring projects to be recognized in the Consolidated Statements of Operations in future periods.


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Table of Contents

The total expected restructuring costs, the costs recognized in prior periods, the restructuring costs recognized during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, and the remaining expected restructuring costs as of September 30, 2013 are as follows:

 
Total Expected Costs at
 September 30, 2013
 
Costs Recognized in Prior Periods
 
Costs Recognized During the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
Remaining Costs to be Recognized at September 30, 2013
 
(in thousands)
Employee severance costs
$
46,850

 
$
44,196

 
$
2,654

 
$

Asset impairments
20,332

 
20,305

 
27

 

Other restructuring costs
6,963

 
5,246

 
1,717

 

Total
$
74,145

 
$
69,747

 
$
4,398

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Segments:
 
 

 
 
 
 
Energy
$
53,385

 
$
53,190

 
$
195

 
$

Water
15,675

 
14,556

 
1,119

 

Corporate unallocated
5,085

 
2,001

 
3,084

 

Total
$
74,145

 
$
69,747

 
$
4,398

 
$


2013 Projects
On September 10, 2013, our management approved new projects to restructure our operations to improve profitability and increase efficiencies. These new restructuring projects will reduce headcount and close or consolidate several manufacturing and office facilities. Overall, we expect to reduce our work force by approximately 9%.

We began implementing these projects in the third quarter of 2013, and we expect to substantially complete these projects by June 30, 2014. Certain aspects of the projects are subject to a variety of labor and employment laws, rules, and regulations, which could result in a delay in implementing the projects at some locations.

The total expected restructuring costs, the restructuring costs recognized during the nine months ended September 30, 2013, and the remaining expected restructuring costs as of September 30, 2013 are as follows:

 
Total Expected Costs at
 September 30, 2013
 
Costs Recognized During the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2013
 
Remaining Costs to be Recognized at September 30, 2013
 
(in thousands)
Employee severance costs
$
28,151

 
$
28,151

 
$

Asset impairments
250

 

 
250

Other restructuring costs
700

 
228

 
472

Total
$
29,101

 
$
28,379

 
$
722

 
 
 
 
 
 
Segments:
 
 
 
 
 
Energy
$
24,863

 
$
24,243

 
$
620

Water
2,395

 
2,337

 
58

Corporate unallocated
1,843

 
1,799

 
44

Total
$
29,101

 
$
28,379

 
$
722


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Table of Contents


The following table summarizes the activity within the restructuring related balance sheet accounts during the nine months ended September 30, 2013:

 
Accrued Employee Severance
 
Asset Impairments & Net Loss on Sale or Disposal
 
Other Accrued Costs
 
Total
 
(in thousands)
Beginning balance, January 1, 2013
$
14,498

 
$

 
$
3,216

 
$
17,714

Costs incurred and charged to expense
30,805

 
27

 
1,945

 
32,777

Cash payments
(6,783
)
 

 
(1,668
)
 
(8,451
)
Non-cash items

 
(27
)
 

 
(27
)
Effect of change in exchange rates
195

 

 
(31
)
 
164

Ending balance, September 30, 2013
$
38,715

 
$

 
$
3,462

 
$
42,177


Other restructuring costs include expenses to exit the facilities, such as costs to relocate inventory and equipment, once the operations in those facilities have ceased. Costs associated with restructuring activities are generally presented as restructuring expense in the Consolidated Statements of Operations, except for certain costs associated with inventory write-downs, which are classified within cost of revenues, and accelerated depreciation expense, which is recognized according to the use of the asset.

The current portions of the restructuring related liability balances were $38.4 million and $13.2 million as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The current portion of the liability is classified within "Other current liabilities" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets. The long-term portions of the restructuring related liability balances were $3.8 million and $4.5 million as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, respectively. The long-term portion of the restructuring liability is classified within "Other long-term obligations" on the Consolidated Balance Sheets.

Asset impairments are determined at the asset group level. Assets held for sale are classified within other current assets and are reported at the lower of the carrying amount or the fair value, less costs to sell, and are no longer depreciated or amortized.

The following table includes assets that were measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis as of September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012, and the related losses recognized during the period:

 
Net Carrying Value
 
Fair Value Measurement (Level 3)
 
Total Loss Recognized in Period
 
(in thousands)
September 30, 2013
 
 
 
 
 
Long-lived assets held for sale
$

 
$

 
$

 
 
 
 
 
 
December 31, 2012
 
 
 
 
 
Long-lived assets held for sale
$
3,184

 
$
3,184

 
$
2


The fair values of the disposal groups included in long-lived assets held for sale were determined based on the estimated proceeds from their expected sales, net of estimated selling costs. Long-lived assets held for sale at December 31, 2012 consist of one asset group that includes land, a building, and building improvements.

Revenues and net operating income from the activities we have exited or will exit under the restructuring plan are not material to our operating segments or consolidated results.

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Table of Contents

Note 13:    Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)

OCI is reflected as a net increase (decrease) to Itron, Inc. shareholders’ equity and is not reflected in our results of operations. The before-tax amount, income tax (provision) benefit, and net-of-tax amount related to each component of other comprehensive income (loss) during the reporting periods were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Before-tax amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
$
21,992

 
$
25,085

 
$
1,343

 
$
940

Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges
(1,021
)
 
(1,332
)
 
223

 
(2,697
)
Net hedging loss (gain) reclassified into net income
274

 

 
274

 

Pension plan benefits liability adjustment
266

 
(4
)
 
(17
)
 
34

Total other comprehensive income (loss), before tax
21,511

 
23,749

 
1,823

 
(1,723
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tax (provision) benefit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
(73
)
 
(558
)
 
(3,544
)
 
(243
)
Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges
343

 
504

 
(129
)
 
1,020

Net hedging loss (gain) reclassified into net income
(104
)
 

 
(104
)
 

Pension plan benefits liability adjustment
(81
)
 
(1
)
 
5

 
6

Total other comprehensive income (loss) tax (provision) benefit
85

 
(55
)
 
(3,772
)
 
783

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net-of-tax amount
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Foreign currency translation adjustment
21,919

 
24,527

 
(2,201
)
 
697

Net unrealized gain (loss) on derivative instruments designated as cash flow hedges
(678
)
 
(828
)
 
94

 
(1,677
)
Net hedging loss (gain) reclassified into net income
170

 

 
170

 

Pension plan benefits liability adjustment
185

 
(5
)
 
(12
)
 
40

Total other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
$
21,596

 
$
23,694

 
$
(1,949
)
 
$
(940
)

The changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) (AOCI), net of tax, were as follows:

 
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
 
Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments
 
Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Nonderivative Instruments
 
Pension Plan Benefit Liability Adjustments
 
Total
 
(in thousands)
Balances at January 1, 2012
$
(24,718
)
 
$

 
$
(14,380
)
 
$
1,938

 
$
(37,160
)
OCI before reclassifications
697

 
(1,677
)
 

 

 
(980
)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI

 

 

 
40

 
40

Total other comprehensive income (loss)
697


(1,677
)


 
40

 
(940
)
Balances at September 30, 2012
$
(24,021
)
 
$
(1,677
)
 
$
(14,380
)
 
$
1,978

 
$
(38,100
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balances at January 1, 2013
$
(3,313
)
 
$
(1,689
)
 
$
(14,380
)
 
$
(15,002
)
 
$
(34,384
)
OCI before reclassifications
(2,201
)
 
94

 

 

 
(2,107
)
Amounts reclassified from AOCI

 
170

 

 
(12
)
 
158

Total other comprehensive income (loss)
(2,201
)

264

 

 
(12
)
 
(1,949
)
Balances at September 30, 2013
$
(5,514
)
 
$
(1,425
)
 
$
(14,380
)
 
$
(15,014
)
 
$
(36,333
)


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Table of Contents

Details about the AOCI components reclassified to the Consolidated Statements of Operations during the reporting periods are as follows:

 
 
Amount Reclassified from AOCI(1)
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended
September 30,
 
Affected Line Item in the Income Statement
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Amortization of defined benefit pension items
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Prior-service costs
 
$
(17
)
 
$
(16
)
 
$
(51
)
 
$
(50
)
 
(2) 
Actuarial losses
 
(249
)
 
(1
)
 
(746
)
 
(5
)
 
(2) 
Loss on settlement
 

 
(13
)
 

 
(13
)
 
(2) 
Total, before tax
 
(266
)
 
(30
)
 
(797
)
 
(68
)
 
Income before income taxes
Tax benefit (provision)
 
81

 
(6
)
 
243

 
(13
)
 
Income tax provision
Total, net of tax
 
(185
)
 
(36
)
 
(554
)
 
(81
)
 
Net income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total reclassifications for the period, net of tax
 
$
(185
)
 
$
(36
)
 
$
(554
)
 
$
(81
)
 
Net income

(1)
Amounts in parenthesis indicate debits to the Statements of Operations.
(2) 
These AOCI components are included in the computation of net periodic pension cost. Refer to Note 8 for additional details.

Refer to Note 7 for additional details related to derivative activities that resulted in reclassification of AOCI to the Consolidated Statements of Operations.
Note 14:    Fair Values of Financial Instruments

The fair values at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 do not reflect subsequent changes in the economy, interest rates, and other variables that may affect the determination of fair value.
 
 
September 30, 2013
 
December 31, 2012
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
Carrying
Amount
 
Fair
Value
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
$
122,047

 
$
122,047

 
$
136,411

 
$
136,411

Foreign exchange forwards
50

 
50

 
146

 
146

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Liabilities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Credit facility
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
USD denominated term loan
$
264,375

 
$
260,416

 
$
277,500

 
$
275,365

Multicurrency revolving line of credit
135,000

 
132,855

 
140,000

 
138,751

Interest rate swaps
2,229

 
2,229

 
2,725

 
2,725

Foreign exchange forwards
69

 
69

 
114

 
114


The following methods and assumptions were used in estimating fair values:

Cash and cash equivalents: Due to the liquid nature of these instruments, the carrying value approximates fair value (Level 1).

Credit facility - term loan and multicurrency revolving line of credit: The term loan and revolver are not traded publicly. The fair values, which are valued based upon a hypothetical market participant, are calculated using a discounted cash flow model with Level 2 inputs, including estimates of incremental borrowing rates for debt with similar terms, maturities, and credit profiles. Refer to Note 6 for a further discussion of our debt.

Derivatives: See Note 7 for a description of our methods and assumptions in determining the fair value of our derivatives, which were determined using Level 2 inputs.

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Table of Contents

Note 15:    Segment Information

We operate under the Itron brand worldwide and manage and report under two operating segments, Energy and Water. The Energy operating segment includes our global electricity and gas businesses, while the Water operating segment includes our global water and heat businesses.

On March 27, 2013, we separated the management of our Energy operating segment into Electricity and Gas to allow each business line to develop its own go-to-market strategy, prioritize its marketing and product development requirements, and focus on its strategic investments. As a result, our sales, marketing, and delivery function are managed under three business lines - Electricity, Gas, and Water. At the same time, product development and manufacturing operations were centralized and are now managed on a global basis. Although most management positions of the new business lines have been identified, the transition to the new organizational structure is ongoing. Therefore, changes to Itron's management reporting and external financial reporting are in process, and we expect to complete the implementation of the new reporting processes in the fourth quarter of 2013.

We have three measures of segment performance: revenue, gross profit (margin), and operating income (margin). Our operating segments have distinct products, and therefore intersegment revenues are minimal. Corporate operating expenses, interest income, interest expense, other income (expense), and income tax provision (benefit) are not allocated to the segments, nor included in the measure of segment profit or loss. In addition, we allocate only certain production assets and intangible assets to our operating segments. We do not manage the performance of the segments on a balance sheet basis.

Segment Products
Energy
Standard electricity (electromechanical and electronic) and gas meters; advanced electricity and gas meters and communication modules; smart electricity meters; smart electricity and gas communication modules; prepayment systems, including smart key, keypad, and smart card communication technologies; advanced systems including handheld, mobile, and fixed network collection technologies; smart network technologies; meter data management software; knowledge application solutions; and professional services including implementation, installation, consulting, and analysis.


 
 
Water
Standard water and heat meters; advanced and smart water meters and communication modules; advanced systems including handheld, mobile, and fixed network collection technologies; meter data management software; knowledge application solutions; and professional services including implementation, installation, consulting, analysis, and system management.


Revenues, gross profit, and operating income associated with our segments were as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Revenues
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Energy
$
359,855

 
$
377,489

 
$
1,022,156

 
$
1,259,834

Water
135,636

 
126,574

 
403,046

 
395,009

Total Company
$
495,491

 
$
504,063

 
$
1,425,202

 
$
1,654,843

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Energy
$
102,940

 
$
125,503

 
$
311,167

 
$
409,057

Water
47,144

 
46,294

 
138,628

 
142,590

Total Company
$
150,084

 
$
171,797

 
$
449,795

 
$
551,647

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income (loss)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Energy
$
(9,284
)
 
$
30,978

 
$
5,960

 
$
116,211

Water
17,225

 
22,293

 
45,189

 
49,896

Corporate unallocated
(14,429
)
 
(7,304
)
 
(37,314
)
 
(34,456
)
Total Company
(6,488
)
 
45,967

 
13,835

 
131,651

Total other income (expense)
(2,859
)
 
(3,523
)
 
(8,837
)
 
(11,151
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
$
(9,347
)
 
$
42,444

 
$
4,998

 
$
120,500


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Table of Contents


For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, no single customer represented more than 10% of total Company, Energy operating segment, or Water operating segment revenues.

For the nine months ended September 30, 2012, one customer from the Energy operating segment accounted for 10% of the total Company revenues, while no customer represented more than 10% of the total Company revenues during the three months ended September 30, 2012. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, one customer accounted for 11% and 13%, respectively, of the Energy operating segment revenues, and no single customer accounted for more than 10% of the Water operating segment revenues.

Revenues by region were as follows:

 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
United States and Canada
$
227,784

 
$
224,956

 
$
616,555

 
$
802,542

Europe, Middle East, and Africa
208,546

 
211,195

 
635,691

 
648,050

Other
59,161

 
67,912

 
172,956

 
204,251

Total revenues
$
495,491

 
$
504,063

 
$
1,425,202

 
$
1,654,843


Depreciation and amortization expense associated with our segments was as follows:
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Energy
$
18,476

 
$
20,452

 
$
55,295

 
$
61,596

Water
6,201

 
7,116

 
18,379

 
20,211

Corporate Unallocated
41

 
17

 
75

 
49

Total Company
$
24,718

 
$
27,585

 
$
73,749

 
$
81,856


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ITEM 2:
Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, the terms “we,” “us,” “our,” “Itron,” and the “Company” refer to Itron, Inc.

The following discussion and analysis should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes included in this report and with our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2012, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) on February 22, 2013.

Documents we provide to the SEC are available free of charge under the Investors section of our website at www.itron.com as soon as practicable after they are filed with or furnished to the SEC. In addition, these documents are available at the SEC’s website (http://www.sec.gov), at the SEC’s Headquarters at 100 F Street, NE, Washington, DC 20549, or by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.

Certain Forward-Looking Statements

This document contains forward-looking statements concerning our operations, financial performance, revenues, earnings growth, liquidity, and other items. This document reflects our current plans and expectations and is based on information currently available as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. When we use the words “expect,” “intend,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “plan,” “project,” “estimate,” “future,” “objective,” “may,” “will,” “will continue,” and similar expressions, they are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements rely on a number of assumptions and estimates. These assumptions and estimates could be inaccurate and cause our actual results to vary materially from expected results. Risks and uncertainties include 1) the rate and timing of customer demand for our products, 2) rescheduling or cancellations of current customer orders and commitments, 3) changes in estimated liabilities for product warranties and/or litigation, 4) our dependence on customers' acceptance of new products and their performance, 5) competition, 6) changes in domestic and international laws and regulations, 7) changes in foreign currency exchange rates and interest rates, 8) international business risks, 9) our own and our customers' or suppliers' access to and cost of capital, 10) future business combinations, and 11) other factors. You should not solely rely on these forward-looking statements as they are only valid as of the date of this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q. We do not have any obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statement in this document. For a more complete description of these and other risks, refer to Item 1A: “Risk Factors” included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, which was filed with the SEC on February 22, 2013.

Results of Operations

We are a technology company, offering end-to-end smart metering solutions to electric, natural gas, and water utilities around the world. Our smart metering solutions, meter data management software, and knowledge application solutions bring additional value to a utility’s metering and grid systems. Our professional services help our customers project-manage, install, implement, operate, and maintain their systems.

We have two operating segments. The Energy operating segment includes our global electricity and gas solutions, while the Water operating segment includes our global water and heat solutions.

On March 27, 2013, we separated the management of our Energy operating segment into Electricity and Gas to allow each business line to develop its own go-to-market strategy, prioritize its marketing and product development requirements, and focus on its strategic investments. As a result, our sales, marketing, and delivery function are managed under three business lines - Electricity, Gas, and Water. At the same time, product development and manufacturing operations were centralized and are now managed on a global basis. Although most management positions of the new business lines have been identified, the transition to the new organizational structure is ongoing. Therefore, changes to Itron's management reporting and external financial reporting are in process, and we expect to complete the implementation of the new reporting processes in the fourth quarter of 2013.

We have three measures of segment performance: revenue, gross profit (margin), and operating income (margin). Intersegment revenues were minimal. Corporate-specific operating expenses, interest income, interest expense, other income (expense), and income tax provision (benefit) are not allocated to the segments and are not included in the measure of segment profit or loss. In addition, we allocate only certain production assets and intangible assets to our operating segments. We do not manage the performance of the segments on a balance sheet basis.


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Overview

Revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 were $495 million and $1.4 billion, compared with $504 million and $1.7 billion in the same periods last year. The decrease in 2013 was the result of lower revenues in the Energy segment. Gross margins for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 were 30.3% and 31.6%, compared with gross margins of 34.1% and 33.3% for the same periods in 2012. The lower margins were the result of lower volumes and a charge for increased costs associated with specific contract components within an OpenWay project in North America.

Our tax benefit for the first nine months of 2013 reflects the favorable discrete tax benefit for the retroactive extension of the 2012 research and experimentation credit in the amount of $4.0 million. The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 was signed into law on January 2, 2013 and extended several business tax provisions including the research and experimentation credit. Our annual estimated effective tax rate for 2013 was favorably impacted by a higher percentage of projected earnings in foreign jurisdictions with tax rates below 35%, the benefit of certain interest expense deductions, and an election under U.S. Internal Revenue Code Section 338 with respect to a foreign acquisition in 2007. Accordingly, our 2013 annual estimated effective tax rate is lower than our 2012 annual estimated effective tax rate, as it was calculated as of September 30, 2012. During the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, we had tax provisions of 15.4% and 22.2%, measured as a percentage of income before tax, which included minimal discrete benefits.

Total backlog was $1.1 billion and twelve-month backlog was $582 million at September 30, 2013.

On March 8, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a twelve-month repurchase program of up to $50 million in shares of our common stock. During the three months ended September 30, 2013, we repurchased 174,200 shares of our common stock for $7.4 million. No shares were purchased subsequent to September 30, 2013.

Total Company Revenues, Gross Profit and Margin, and Unit Shipments
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
% Change
 
2013
 
2012
 
% Change
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Revenues
$
495,491

 
$
504,063

 
(2)%
 
$
1,425,202

 
$
1,654,843

 
(14)%
Gross Profit
$
150,084

 
$
171,797

 
(13)%
 
$
449,795

 
$
551,647

 
(18)%
Gross Margin
30.3
%
 
34.1
%
 
 
 
31.6
%
 
33.3
%
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Revenues by Region
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
United States and Canada (North America)
$
227,784

 
$
224,956

 
$
616,555

 
$
802,542

Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA)
208,546

 
211,195

 
635,691

 
648,050

Other
59,161

 
67,912

 
172,956

 
204,251

Total revenues
$
495,491

 
$
504,063

 
$
1,425,202

 
$
1,654,843


Revenues
Revenues decreased $8.6 million and $229.6 million, or 2% and 14%, for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the same periods in 2012. These decreases were driven by the Energy segment and reflected the impact of the substantial completion of four of our five largest OpenWay projects in 2012. Gas revenues were lower, driven primarily by decreased product shipments in EMEA. Water revenues increased in 2013, primarily due to increases in services in North America and product shipments in Latin America. A more detailed analysis of these fluctuations is provided in Operating Segment Results.

No single customer accounted for more than 10% of total Company revenues during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, and during the three months ended September 30, 2012, while one customer, namely BC Hydro and Power Authority, accounted for 10% of total Company revenues during the nine months ended September 30, 2012. Our 10 largest customers accounted for 24% and 22% of total revenues during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, and 25% and 29% for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2012, respectively.


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Table of Contents

Gross Margins
Gross margin for the third quarter of 2013 was 30.3%, compared with 34.1% for the same period in 2012. For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, gross margin was 31.6%, compared with 33.3% in the same period in 2012. Margins declined in both the Energy and Water segments. The lower margins in the Energy segment were primarily the result of a charge for increased costs associated with specific contract components within an OpenWay project in North America. In the third quarter of 2013, we determined a charge was necessary as the estimated costs to complete the project are expected to exceed the expected revenues for the remaining components. In addition, the Energy segment gross margin declined because of less favorable product mix, which is due to lower volumes of higher margin products as a proportion of total sales. The Water operating segment gross margins declined due to increased professional services in North America, which have a lower gross margin, as well as less favorable product mix in other regions. A more detailed analysis of these fluctuations is provided in Operating Segment Results.

Meter and Module Summary
We classify meters into three categories:
Standard metering – no built-in remote reading communication technology
Advanced metering – one-way communication of meter data
Smart metering – two-way communication including remote meter configuration and upgrade (consisting primarily of our OpenWay® technology)

In addition, advanced and smart meter communication modules can be sold separately from the meter. A summary of our meter and communication module shipments is as follows:

 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(units in thousands)
Meters
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Standard
3,480

 
4,110

 
12,650

 
13,610

Advanced and smart
1,100

 
1,700

 
4,070

 
6,110

Total meters
4,580

 
5,810

 
16,720

 
19,720

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Stand-alone communication modules
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Advanced and smart
1,420

 
1,500

 
4,110

 
5,050



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Table of Contents

Operating Segment Results

For a description of our operating segments, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 15: Segment Information”.
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
% Change
 
 
 
2013
 
2012
 
% Change
 
 
Segment Revenues
(in thousands)
 
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
 
Energy
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Electricity
$
216,615

 
$
226,552

 
(4)%
 
 
 
$
605,990

 
$
794,496

 
(24)%
 
 
Gas
143,240

 
150,937

 
(5)%
 
 
 
416,166

 
465,338

 
(11)%
 
 
Total Energy
359,855

 
377,489

 
(5)%
 
 
 
1,022,156

 
1,259,834

 
(19)%
 
 
Water
135,636

 
126,574

 
7%
 
 
 
403,046

 
395,009

 
2%
 
 
Total revenues
$
495,491

 
$
504,063

 
(2)%
 
 
 
$
1,425,202

 
$
1,654,843

 
(14)%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
 
Gross
Profit
 
Gross
Margin
Segment Gross Profit and Margin
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Energy
$
102,940

 
28.6%
 
$
125,503

 
33.2%
 
$
311,167

 
30.4%
 
$
409,057

 
32.5%
Water
47,144

 
34.8%
 
46,294

 
36.6%
 
138,628

 
34.4%
 
142,590

 
36.1%
Total gross profit and margin
$
150,084

 
30.3%
 
$
171,797

 
34.1%
 
$
449,795

 
31.6%
 
$
551,647

 
33.3%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
 
Operating
Income (Loss)
 
Operating
Margin
Segment Operating Income (Loss) and Operating Margin
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Energy
$
(9,284
)
 
(3)%
 
$
30,978

 
8%
 
$
5,960

 
1%
 
$
116,211

 
9%
Water
17,225

 
13%
 
22,293

 
18%
 
45,189

 
11%
 
49,896

 
13%
Corporate unallocated
(14,429
)
 
 
 
(7,304
)
 
 
 
(37,314
)
 
 
 
(34,456
)
 
 
Total Company
$
(6,488
)
 
(1)%
 
$
45,967

 
9%
 
$
13,835

 
1%
 
$
131,651

 
8%

Energy:

Revenues - Three months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Three months ended September 30, 2012
Electricity revenues decreased $9.9 million, or 4%, for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the same period in 2012. Revenues in 2013 were lower primarily due to $46.4 million in scheduled decreases in our five largest OpenWay projects in North America and $7.2 million in decreased meter shipments in Asia/Pacific. These decreases were partially offset by $37.9 million in increased revenues from sources other than the five largest OpenWay projects in North America and $7.6 million in higher product shipments and services in EMEA.

Gas revenues decreased $7.7 million, or 5%, for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the third quarter of 2012, primarily as the result of $10.1 million in lower product sales in EMEA. The overall decrease was partially offset by higher product and service revenue in North America of $4.1 million.

Revenues - Nine months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Nine months ended September 30, 2012
Electricity revenues decreased $188.5 million, or 24%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the same period in 2012. Revenues in 2013 were lower primarily due to $265.5 million in scheduled decreases in our five largest OpenWay projects in North America, $12.9 million in decreased meter shipments in Asia/Pacific, and $5.3 million in decreased product shipments in Latin America. These decreases were partially offset by $79.0 million in increased revenues from sources other than the five largest OpenWay projects in North America and $29.6 million in EMEA. The translation effect of our operations denominated in foreign currencies negatively impacted revenues by $13.4 million.


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Table of Contents

Gas revenues decreased $49.2 million, or 11%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the third quarter of 2012, primarily as the result of $36.5 million in lower product sales in EMEA and $7.2 million in lower product sales and services in North America.

No single customer accounted for more than 10% of the Energy operating segment revenues during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, while one customer accounted for 11% and 13% of the Energy operating segment revenues during the same periods of 2012.

Gross Margin - Three months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Three months ended September 30, 2012
Energy gross margin was 28.6% for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared with 33.2% for third quarter in 2012. During the third quarter of 2013, gross margin decreased 460 basis points over the prior year, primarily as the result of a charge for increased costs associated with specific contract components within an OpenWay project in North America, impacting gross margin by 350 basis points. In addition, gross margin was negatively impacted by lower volumes and less favorable product mix.

Gross Margin - Nine months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Nine months ended September 30, 2012
Energy gross margin was 30.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with 32.5% in 2012. During the first nine months of 2013, gross margin decreased 210 basis points over the prior year primarily as the result of a charge for increased costs associated with specific contract components within an OpenWay project in North America, impacting gross margin by 130 basis points. In addition, gross margin was negatively impacted by lower volumes and less favorable product mix.

Operating Expenses - Three months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Three months ended September 30, 2012
Energy operating expenses increased $17.7 million, or 19%, for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the same period in 2012. In 2013, restructuring expense, associated with the 2013 restructuring projects, was $24.0 million higher than 2012. Operating expenses including sales and marketing, product development, and general and administrative expense were $80.7 million in 2013 compared with $86.0 million in 2012.

Operating Expenses - Nine months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Nine months ended September 30, 2012
Energy operating expenses increased $12.4 million, or 4%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with 2012. In 2013, restructuring expense, associated with the 2013 restructuring projects, was $20.9 million higher than 2012. Operating expenses including sales and marketing, product development, and general and administrative expense were $257.5 million in 2013 compared with $263.2 million in 2012. Litigation expense in 2013, classified within general and administrative expenses, was $7.0 million higher than in 2012.

Water:

Revenues - Three months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Three months ended September 30, 2012
Revenues increased $9.1 million, or 7%, for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared with the third quarter of 2012. This increase was the result of $7.1 million in higher product and service revenues in North America and by $3.7 million in higher product volumes in Latin America.

Revenues - Nine months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Nine months ended September 30, 2012
Revenues increased $8.0 million, or 2%, for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with 2012. The increase was driven primarily by $10.8 million in higher products and services in North America and $3.0 million in product shipments in Latin America, partially offset by $4.9 million in lower volumes in Asia/Pacific.

No single customer represented more than 10% of the Water operating segment revenues during the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

Gross Margin - Three months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Three months ended September 30, 2012
Water gross margin decreased to 34.8% for the three months ended September 30, 2013, compared with 36.6% for the same period last year, primarily as a result of an increase in professional services in North America, which have a lower gross margin, partially offset by the benefit of higher volumes in Latin America.

Gross Margin - Nine months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Nine months ended September 30, 2012
Water gross margin decreased to 34.4% for the nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with 36.1% for the same period last year, primarily as a result of an increase in professional services in North America, which have a lower gross margin, and less favorable product mix in other regions.


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Table of Contents

Operating Expenses - Three months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Three months ended September 30, 2012
Operating expenses for the three months ended September 30, 2013 increased by $5.9 million, or 25%, over the third quarter of 2012, primarily as the result of $7.3 million in higher restructuring expenses in 2013. During 2012, we recognized a $5.4 million recovery of restructuring expense as the result of the correction of an error related to the write off of goodwill in 2011 associated with an asset disposal group. Operating expenses, including sales and marketing, product development, and general and administrative expenses, were $24.9 million and $25.8 million in the three months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

Operating Expenses - Nine months ended September 30, 2013 vs. Nine months ended September 30, 2012
Operating expenses for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 increased by $0.7 million, or 1%, over the same period in 2012, primarily as the result of $4.3 million in higher restructuring expenses in 2013. During 2012, we recognized a $5.4 million recovery of restructuring expense as the result of the correction of an error related to the write off of goodwill in 2011 associated with an asset disposal group. Operating expenses, including sales and marketing, product development, and general and administrative expenses, were $81.8 million and $83.8 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 and 2012.

Corporate unallocated:

Operating expenses not directly associated with an operating segment are classified as “Corporate unallocated.” These expenses were higher by $7.1 million and $2.9 million in the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, due to increased restructuring costs of $2.1 million and $4.1 million for the quarter and year-to-date periods.

Bookings and Backlog of Orders

Bookings for a reported period represent customer contracts and purchase orders received during the period that have met certain conditions, such as regulatory and/or contractual approval. Total backlog represents committed but undelivered products and services for contracts and purchase orders at period end. Twelve-month backlog represents the portion of total backlog that we estimate will be recognized as revenue over the next 12 months. Backlog is not a complete measure of our future revenues as we also receive significant book-and-ship orders. Bookings and backlog may fluctuate significantly due to the timing of large project awards. In addition, annual or multi-year contracts are subject to rescheduling and cancellation by customers due to the long-term nature of the contracts. Beginning total backlog, plus bookings, minus revenues, will not equal ending total backlog due to miscellaneous contract adjustments, foreign currency fluctuations, and other factors.
 
Quarter Ended
 
Quarterly
Bookings
 
Ending
Total
Backlog
 
Ending
12-Month
Backlog
 
 
(in millions)
September 30, 2013
 
$
457

 
$
1,055

 
$
582

June 30, 2013
 
515

 
1,058

 
558

March 31, 2013
 
447

 
1,029

 
565

December 31, 2012
 
467

 
1,035

 
568

September 30, 2012
 
459

 
1,079

 
592


Information on bookings by our operating segments is as follows:
 
Quarter Ended
 
Bookings
 
Energy
 
Water
 
 
(in millions)
September 30, 2013
 
$
457

 
$
334

 
$
123

June 30, 2013
 
515

 
365

 
150

March 31, 2013
 
447

 
305

 
142

December 31, 2012
 
467

 
345

 
122

September 30, 2012
 
459

 
341

 
118



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Operating Expenses

 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
% of
Revenues
 
2012
 
% of
Revenues
 
2013
 
% of
Revenues
 
2012
 
% of
Revenues
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Sales and marketing
$
44,050

 
9%
 
$
44,913

 
9%
 
$
138,448

 
10%
 
$
145,616

 
9%
Product development
41,495

 
8%
 
43,299

 
9%
 
129,184

 
9%
 
134,295

 
8%
General and administrative
32,260

 
7%
 
30,743

 
6%
 
104,172

 
7%
 
100,763

 
6%
Amortization of intangible assets
10,388

 
2%
 
11,929

 
2%
 
31,379

 
2%
 
35,867

 
2%
Restructuring
28,379

 
6%
 
(5,054
)
 
(1)%
 
32,777

 
2%
 
3,455

 
—%
Total operating expenses
$
156,572

 
32%
 
$
125,830

 
25%
 
$
435,960

 
31%
 
$
419,996

 
25%

Operating expenses increased $30.7 million and $16.0 million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, primarily due to increased restructuring costs associated with the 2013 projects and litigation reserves, which are included within general and administrative operating expense, partially offset by reduced sales and marketing and product development costs. In addition, the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013 include scheduled decreases in amortization of intangible assets of $1.5 million and $4.5 million.

Other Income (Expense)

The following table shows the components of other income (expense):
 
 
Three Months Ended September 30,
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Interest income
$
146

 
$
297

 
$
1,401

 
$
667

Interest expense
(2,432
)
 
(2,138
)
 
(6,277
)
 
(6,418
)
Amortization of prepaid debt fees
(415
)
 
(413
)
 
(1,244
)
 
(1,176
)
Other income (expense), net
(158
)
 
(1,269
)
 
(2,717
)
 
(4,224
)
Total other income (expense)
$
(2,859
)
 
$
(3,523
)
 
$
(8,837
)
 
$
(11,151
)

Interest income: Interest income is generated from our cash and cash equivalents balances and certain deposits on hand with third parties. Interest income in the nine months ended September 30, 2013 includes interest recognized on certain deposits with governmental entities related to tax contingencies.

Interest expense: Interest expense for the three months ended September 30, 2013 increased due to the impact of the interest rate swaps and a higher interest rate margin on the credit facility, both of which became effective during the quarter. Interest expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 declined due to a lower balance of outstanding debt on our credit facility. Average total debt outstanding was $423.1 million and $441.4 million for the quarters ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and $414.7 million and $454.2 million for the nine month periods ended September 30, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Amortization of prepaid debt fees: Amortization of prepaid debt fees for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 increased from the same period in 2012 as the result of fees paid during the second quarter of 2012 for the increase in the borrowing capacity of the multicurrency revolving line of credit. Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements Note 6: Debt” for additional details related to our long-term borrowings.

Other income (expense), net: Other expenses, net, consist primarily of unrealized and realized foreign currency gains and losses from balances denominated in currencies other than the reporting entity's functional currency and other non-operating income (expenses). Foreign currency gains (losses), net of hedging, were $236,000 and $(1.9) million for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, compared with net foreign currency gains (losses) of $(1.2) million and $(2.7) million in the same periods in 2012.


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Financial Condition

Cash Flow Information:
 
 
Nine Months Ended September 30,
 
2013
 
2012
 
(in thousands)
Operating activities
$
65,877

 
$
137,003

Investing activities
(41,703
)
 
(110,147
)
Financing activities
(36,084
)
 
(68,516
)
Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
(2,454
)
 
48

Decrease in cash and cash equivalents
$
(14,364
)
 
$
(41,612
)

Cash and cash equivalents was $122.0 million at September 30, 2013, compared with $136.4 million at December 31, 2012.

Operating activities
Cash provided by operating activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $71.1 million lower than during the same period in 2012. This decline was primarily due to a decrease in net income, adjusted for non-cash items, such as depreciation and amortization, stock-based compensation, and other adjustments, of $107.4 million.

Investing activities
Cash used in investing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $68.4 million lower than during the same period in 2012, primarily due to a decline in business acquisitions of $79.0 million, the impact of which was partially offset by an increase in acquisitions of property, plant, and equipment of $10.3 million. In the first nine months of 2013, there was no significant business acquisition activity, while during the same period in 2012 we acquired SmartSynch for $77.7 million.

Financing activities
Net cash used in financing activities during the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was $32.4 million lower, compared with the same period in 2012, primarily as a result of decreases of $17.1 million in repurchases of our common stock and $13.1 million in repayments of debt, net of proceeds from borrowings. Refer to Part II, Item 2: "Unregistered Sale of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds" for additional details related to our share repurchase program.

Effect of exchange rates on cash and cash equivalents
The effect of exchange rates on the cash balances of currencies held in foreign denominations for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was a decrease of $2.5 million, compared with an increase of $48,000 for the same period in 2012.

Off-balance sheet arrangements:

We have no off-balance sheet financing agreements or guarantees as defined by Item 303 of Regulation S-K at September 30, 2013 and December 31, 2012 that we believe are reasonably likely to have a current or future effect on our financial condition, results of operations, or cash flows.

Liquidity and Capital Resources:
 
Our principal sources of liquidity are cash flows from operations, borrowings, and sales of common stock. Cash flows may fluctuate and are sensitive to many factors including changes in working capital and the timing and magnitude of capital expenditures and payments on debt. Working capital, which represents current assets less current liabilities, was $349.7 million at September 30, 2013, compared with $353.6 million at December 31, 2012.

Borrowings
In August 2011, we entered into a senior secured credit facility (the credit facility). The credit facility consists of a $300 million U.S. dollar term loan and a multicurrency revolving line of credit (the revolver) with a principal amount of up to $660 million.

At September 30, 2013, $135.0 million was outstanding under the revolver, and $50.1 million was utilized by outstanding standby letters of credit, resulting in $474.9 million available for additional borrowings.


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For further description of the term loan and the revolver under our credit facility, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 6: Debt.”

For a description of our letters of credit and performance bonds, and the amounts available for additional borrowings or letters of credit under our lines of credit, including the revolver that is part of our credit facility, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 11: Commitments and Contingencies.”

Share Repurchase
On March 8, 2013, our Board of Directors authorized a repurchase program of up to $50 million in shares of our common stock through March 7, 2014. Repurchases are made in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions and in accordance with applicable securities laws. Depending on market conditions and other factors, these repurchases may be commenced or suspended from time to time without prior notice. From March 8, 2013 through September 30, 2013, we repurchased 559,000 shares of our common stock, totaling $23.6 million, leaving $26.4 million remaining under the repurchase program. Refer to Part II, Item 2(c): "Issuer Repurchase of Equity Securities" for additional information related to our share repurchase program.

Restructuring
On September 10, 2013, our management announced the approval of new projects to restructure the Company's operations to improve profitability and increase efficiencies. These new restructuring projects will reduce headcount and close or consolidate several manufacturing and office facilities.

We began implementing these projects in the third quarter of 2013, and we expect to substantially complete these projects by June 30, 2014. Certain aspects of the project are subject to a variety of labor and employment laws, rules, and regulations, which could result in a delay in implementing the projects at some locations. At September 30, 2013, the current and long-term portions of the restructuring related liability balances were $38.4 million and $3.8 million, respectively. For further details regarding our restructuring activities, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 12: Restructuring.”

Other Liquidity Considerations
We have tax credits and net operating loss carryforwards in various jurisdictions that are available to reduce cash taxes. However, utilization of tax credits and net operating losses are limited in certain jurisdictions. Based on current projections, we expect to pay, net of refunds, approximately $250,000 in state taxes and $13.1 million in local and foreign taxes in 2013. We do not expect to make any payments for U.S. federal taxes in 2013. For a discussion of our tax provision and unrecognized tax benefits, see Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 10: Income Taxes.”

As of September 30, 2013, there was $36.2 million of cash and cash equivalents held by foreign subsidiaries that could be repatriated, if necessary to fund U.S. operations. Tax is one of the many factors that we consider in the management of global cash. Included in the determination of the tax costs in repatriating foreign cash into the United States are the amount of earnings and profits in a particular jurisdiction, withholding taxes that would be imposed, and available foreign tax credits. Accordingly, the amount of taxes that we would need to accrue and pay to repatriate foreign cash could vary significantly.

The American Taxpayer Relief Act of 2012 (the "Act") was signed into law on January 2, 2013 and extended several business tax provisions including: (1) the active financing income and controlled foreign corporation look-through exceptions to certain foreign income; and (2) the research and experimentation credit. The tax effects of the Act were recognized in the first quarter of 2013.

In several of our consolidated international subsidiaries, we have joint venture partners, who are minority shareholders. Although these entities are not wholly-owned by Itron, Inc, we consolidate them because we have a greater than 50% ownership interest or because we exercise control over the operations. The noncontrolling interest balance in our Consolidated Balance Sheets represents the proportional share of the equity of the joint venture entities, which is attributable to the minority shareholders. Approximately $17.6 million of our consolidated cash balance at September 30, 2013 resides in our joint venture entities. As a result, the minority shareholders of these entities control their proportional share of this cash balance, and there may be limitations on our ability to repatriate cash to the U.S. from these entities.

For a description of our funded and unfunded non-U.S. defined benefit pension plans and our expected 2013 contributions, refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 8: Defined Benefit Pension Plans.”

For a description of our bonus and profit sharing plans, including the amounts accrued at September 30, 2013 and the expected timing of payment, refer to Bonus and Profit Sharing within Critical Accounting Estimates below.


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General Liquidity Overview
We expect to grow through a combination of internal new product development, licensing technology from and to others, distribution agreements, partnering arrangements, and acquisitions of technology or other companies. We expect these activities to be funded with existing cash, cash flow from operations, borrowings, and the sale of common stock or other securities. We believe existing sources of liquidity will be sufficient to fund our existing operations and obligations for the next 12 months and into the foreseeable future, but offer no assurances. Our liquidity could be affected by unforeseen changes in the energy and water industries, competitive pressures, changes in estimated liabilities for product warranties and/or litigation, future business combinations, capital market fluctuations, international risks, and other factors described under “Risk Factors” within Item 1A of Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, which was filed with the SEC on February 22, 2013, as well as “Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk” within Item 3 of Part I included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q.

Contingencies

Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 11: Commitments and Contingencies”.

Critical Accounting Estimates

Revenue Recognition
The majority of our revenue arrangements involve multiple deliverables, which require us to determine the fair value of each deliverable and then allocate the total arrangement consideration among the separate deliverables based on the relative fair value percentages. Revenues for each deliverable are then recognized based on the type of deliverable, such as 1) when the products are shipped, 2) services are delivered, 3) percentage-of-completion when implementation services are essential to other deliverables in the arrangement, 4) upon receipt of customer acceptance, or 5) transfer of title and risk of loss. A majority of our revenue is recognized when products are shipped to or received by a customer or when services are provided.
Fair value represents the estimated price charged if an element were sold separately. If the fair value of any undelivered element included in a multiple deliverable arrangement cannot be objectively determined, revenue is deferred until all elements are delivered and services have been performed, or until the fair value can be objectively determined for any remaining undelivered elements. We review our fair values on an annual basis or more frequently if a significant trend is noted.
If implementation services are essential to a software arrangement, revenue is recognized using either the percentage-of-completion methodology of contract accounting if project costs can be reliably estimated or the completed contract methodology if project costs cannot be reliably estimated. The estimation of costs through completion of a project is subject to many variables such as the length of time to complete, changes in wages, subcontractor performance, supplier information, and business volume assumptions. Changes in underlying assumptions/estimates may adversely or positively affect financial performance.
If we estimate that the completion of a contract component (unit of accounting) will result in a loss, the loss is recognized in the period in which it is estimated. We reevaluate the estimated loss through the completion of the contract component, and adjust the estimated loss for changes in facts and circumstances.

Certain of our revenue arrangements include an extended or noncustomary warranty provision that covers all or a portion of a customer's replacement or repair costs beyond the standard or customary warranty period. Whether or not the extended warranty is separately priced in the arrangement, a portion of the arrangement's total consideration is allocated to this extended warranty deliverable. This revenue is deferred and recognized over the extended warranty coverage period. Extended or noncustomary warranties do not represent a significant portion of our revenue.

We allocate consideration to each deliverable in an arrangement based on its relative selling price. We determine selling price using VSOE, if it exists, otherwise we use third-party evidence (TPE). We define VSOE as a median price of recent standalone transactions that are priced within a narrow range. TPE is determined based on the prices charged by our competitors for a similar deliverable when sold separately. If neither VSOE nor TPE of selling price exists for a unit of accounting, we use estimated selling price (ESP). The objective of ESP is to determine the price at which we would transact if the product or service were regularly sold by us on a standalone basis. Our determination of ESP involves a weighting of several factors based on the specific facts and circumstances of the arrangement. The factors considered include the cost to produce the deliverable, the anticipated margin on that deliverable, our ongoing pricing strategy and policies, and the characteristics of the varying markets in which the deliverable is sold.

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We analyze the selling prices used in our allocation of arrangement consideration on an annual basis. Selling prices are analyzed on a more frequent basis if a significant change in our business necessitates a more timely analysis or if we experience significant variances in our selling prices.

Warranty
We offer standard warranties on our hardware products and large application software products. We accrue the estimated cost of new product warranties based on historical and projected product performance trends and costs during the warranty period. Testing of new products in the development stage helps identify and correct potential warranty issues prior to manufacturing. Quality control efforts during manufacturing reduce our exposure to warranty claims. If our quality control efforts fail to detect a fault in one of our products, we may experience an increase in warranty claims. We track warranty claims to identify potential warranty trends. If an unusual trend is noted, an additional warranty accrual would be recorded if a failure event is probable and the cost can be reasonably estimated. When new products are introduced, our process relies on historical averages until sufficient data are available. As actual experience on new products becomes available, it is used to modify the historical averages to ensure the expected warranty costs are within a range of likely outcomes. Management regularly evaluates the sufficiency of the warranty provisions and makes adjustments when necessary. The warranty allowances may fluctuate due to changes in estimates for material, labor, and other costs we may incur to repair or replace projected product failures, and we may incur additional warranty and related expenses in the future with respect to new or established products, which could adversely affect our gross margin. The long-term warranty balance includes estimated warranty claims beyond one year.

Restructuring and Asset Impairments
We record a liability for costs associated with an exit or disposal activity at its fair value in the period in which the liability is incurred. Employee termination benefits considered post-employment benefits are accrued when the obligation is probable and estimable, such as benefits stipulated by human resource policies and practices or statutory requirements. One-time termination benefits are expensed at the date the employee is notified. If the employee must provide future service greater than 60 days, such benefits are expensed ratably over the future service period. For contract termination costs, we record a liability upon the later of when we terminate a contract in accordance with the contract terms or when we cease using the rights conveyed by the contract.

Asset impairments are determined at the asset group level. An impairment may be recorded for assets that are to be abandoned, are to be sold for less than net book value, or are held for sale in which the estimated proceeds are less than the net book value less costs to sell. We may also recognize impairment on an asset group, which is held and used, when the carrying value is not recoverable and exceeds the asset group's fair value. If an asset group is considered a business, a portion of the Company's goodwill balance is allocated to it based on relative fair value.

In determining restructuring charges, we analyze our future operating requirements, including the required headcount by business functions and facility space requirements. Our restructuring costs and any resulting accruals involve significant estimates using the best information available at the time the estimate are made. Our estimates involve a number of risks and uncertainties, some of which are beyond our control, including real estate market conditions and local labor and employment laws, rules, and regulations. If the amounts and timing of cash flows from restructuring activities are significantly different from what we have estimated, the actual amount of restructuring and asset impairment charges could be materially different, either higher or lower, than those we have recorded.

Income Taxes
The calculation of our annual estimated effective tax rate requires significant judgment and is subject to several factors, including fluctuations in the forecasted mix of earnings in domestic and international jurisdictions, new or revised tax legislation and accounting pronouncements, tax credits, state income taxes, adjustments to valuation allowances, and uncertain tax positions, among other items.

We record valuation allowances to reduce deferred tax assets to the extent we believe it is more likely than not that a portion of such assets will not be realized. In making such determinations, we consider available positive and negative evidence, including scheduled reversals of deferred tax liabilities, projected future taxable income, tax planning strategies, and our ability to carry back losses to prior years. We are required to make assumptions and judgments about potential outcomes that lie outside management’s control. The most sensitive and critical factors are the projection, source, and character of future taxable income. Although realization is not assured, management believes it is more likely than not that deferred tax assets will be realized. The amount of deferred tax assets considered realizable, however, could be reduced in the near term if estimates of future taxable income during the carryforward periods are reduced or current tax planning strategies are not implemented.

We are subject to audit in multiple taxing jurisdictions in which we operate. These audits may involve complex issues, which may require an extended period of time to resolve. We believe we have recorded adequate income tax provisions and reserves for uncertain tax positions.

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In evaluating uncertain tax positions, we consider the relative risks and merits of positions taken in tax returns filed and to be filed, considering statutory, judicial, and regulatory guidance applicable to those positions. We make assumptions and judgments about potential outcomes that lie outside management’s control. To the extent the tax authorities disagree with our conclusions and depending on the final resolution of those disagreements, our actual tax rate may be materially affected in the period of final settlement with the tax authorities.

Inventories
Items are removed from inventory using the first-in, first-out method. Inventories include raw materials, sub-assemblies, and finished goods. Inventory amounts include the cost to manufacture the item, such as the cost of raw materials, labor, and other applied direct and indirect costs. We also review idle facility expense, freight, handling costs, and wasted materials to determine if abnormal amounts should be recognized as current-period charges. We review our inventory for obsolescence and marketability. If the estimated market value, which is based upon assumptions about future demand and market conditions, falls below the original cost, the inventory value is reduced to the market value. If technology rapidly changes or actual market conditions are less favorable than those projected by management, inventory write-downs may be required. Our inventory levels may vary period to period as a result of our factory scheduling and timing of contract fulfillments.

Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and intangible assets may result from our acquisitions. We use estimates, including estimates of useful lives of intangible assets, the amount and timing of related future cash flows, and fair values of the related operations, in determining the value assigned to goodwill and intangible assets. Our finite-lived intangible assets are amortized over their estimated useful lives based on estimated discounted cash flows. IPR&D is considered an indefinite-lived intangible asset and is not subject to amortization until the associated projects are completed or terminated. Finite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment at the asset group level when events or changes in circumstances indicate the carrying value may not be recoverable. Indefinite-lived intangible assets are tested for impairment annually, when events or changes in circumstances indicate the asset may be impaired, or at the time when their useful lives are determined to be no longer indefinite.

Goodwill is assigned to our reporting units based on the expected benefit from the synergies arising from each business combination, determined by using certain financial metrics, including the forecasted discounted cash flows associated with each reporting unit.
We test goodwill for impairment each year as of October 1, or more frequently should a significant impairment indicator occur. As part of the impairment test, we may elect to perform an assessment of qualitative factors. If this qualitative assessment indicates that it is more likely than not that the fair value of a reporting unit, including goodwill, is less than its carrying amount, or if we elect to bypass the qualitative assessment, we would then proceed with the two-step impairment test. The impairment test involves comparing the fair values of the reporting units to their carrying amounts. If the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, a second step is required to measure the goodwill impairment loss amount. This second step determines the current fair values of all assets and liabilities of the reporting unit and then compares the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill to the carrying amount of that goodwill. If the carrying amount of the reporting unit's goodwill exceeds the implied fair value of the goodwill, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal to the excess.

Determining the fair value of a reporting unit is judgmental in nature and involves the use of significant estimates and assumptions. We forecast discounted future cash flows at the reporting unit level using risk-adjusted discount rates and estimated future revenues and operating costs, which take into consideration factors such as existing backlog, expected future orders, supplier contracts, and expectations of competitive and economic environments. We also identify similar publicly traded companies and develop a correlation, referred to as a multiple, to apply to the operating results of the reporting units. These combined fair values are then reconciled to the aggregate market value of our common stock on the date of valuation, while considering a reasonable control premium.


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Based on our most recent annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1, 2012, the percentage by which the estimated fair value of the reporting units exceeded their carrying value and amount of goodwill allocated to each of these reporting units were as follows:

 
 
October 1, 2012
Reporting Unit
 
Goodwill
 
Fair Value Exceeded Carrying Value
 
 
(in thousands)
 
 
Energy - Electricity
 
$
221,119

 
19
%
Energy - Gas
 
382,563

 
66
%
Water
 
83,750

 
317
%

Changes in market demand, fluctuations in the economies in which we operate, the volatility and decline in the worldwide equity markets, and a further decline in our market capitalization could negatively impact the remaining carrying value of our goodwill, which could have a significant effect on our current and future results of operations and financial condition.

Derivative Instruments
All derivative instruments, whether designated in hedging relationships or not, are recorded on the Consolidated Balance Sheets at fair value as either assets or liabilities. The components and fair values of our derivative instruments are determined using the fair value measurements of significant other observable inputs (also known as “Level 2”), as defined by U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. We include the effect of our counterparty credit risk based on current published credit default swap rates when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net asset position and the effect of our own nonperformance risk when the net fair value of our derivative instruments is in a net liability position. Level 2 inputs consist of quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets; quoted prices for identical or similar assets and liabilities in non-active markets; and model-derived valuations in which significant inputs are corroborated by observable market data either directly or indirectly through correlation or other means (inputs may include yield curves, volatility, credit risks, and default rates). Derivatives are not used for trading or speculative purposes. Our derivatives are with credit-worthy multinational financial institutions, with whom we have master netting agreements; however, our derivative positions are not disclosed on a net basis. There are no credit-risk-related contingent features within our derivative instruments.

Defined Benefit Pension Plans
We sponsor both funded and unfunded defined benefit pension plans for our international employees, primarily in Germany, France, Italy, Indonesia, and Spain. We recognize a liability for the projected benefit obligation in excess of plan assets or an asset for plan assets in excess of the projected benefit obligation. We also recognize the funded status of our defined benefit pension plans on our Consolidated Balance Sheets and recognize as a component of other comprehensive income (OCI), net of tax, the actuarial gains or losses and prior service costs or credits, if any, that arise during the period but are not recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost.

Several economic assumptions and actuarial data are used in calculating the expense and obligations related to these plans. The assumptions are updated annually at December 31 and include the discount rate, the expected remaining service life, the expected rate of return on plan assets, and the rate of future compensation increase. The discount rate is a significant assumption used to value our pension benefit obligation. We determine a discount rate for our plans based on the estimated duration of each plan’s liabilities. For our euro denominated defined benefit pension plans, which represent 94% of our benefit obligation, we use three discount rates, with consideration of the duration of the plans, using a hypothetical yield curve developed from euro-denominated AA-rated corporate bond issues, partially weighted for market value, with minimum amounts outstanding of €250 million for bonds with less than 10 years to maturity and €50 million for bonds with 10 or more years to maturity, and excluding the highest and lowest yielding 10% of bonds within each maturity group. The discount rates used, depending on the duration of the plans, were 2.75%, 3.25% and 3.50%, respectively. The weighted average discount rate used to measure the projected benefit obligation for all of the plans at December 31, 2012 was 3.36%. A change of 25 basis points in the discount rate would change our pension benefit obligation by approximately $4.0 million. The financial and actuarial assumptions used at December 31, 2012 may differ materially from actual results due to changing market and economic conditions and other factors. These differences could result in a significant change in the amount of pension expense recorded in future periods. Gains and losses resulting from changes in actuarial assumptions, including the discount rate, are recognized in OCI in the period in which they occur.

Our general funding policy for these qualified pension plans is to contribute amounts at least sufficient to satisfy funding standards of the respective countries for each plan. Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 8: Defined Benefit Pension Plans” for our expected contributions for 2013.

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Contingencies
A loss contingency is recorded if it is probable that an asset has been impaired or a liability has been incurred and the amount of the loss can be reasonably estimated. We evaluate, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and our ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of the ultimate loss. Loss contingencies that we determine to be reasonably possible, but not probable, are disclosed but not recorded. Changes in these factors and related estimates could materially affect our financial position and results of operations. Legal costs to defend against contingent liabilities are expensed as incurred.

Bonus and Profit Sharing
We have various employee bonus and profit sharing plans, which provide award amounts for the achievement of annual financial and nonfinancial targets. If management determines it probable that the targets will be achieved and the amounts can be reasonably estimated, a compensation accrual is recorded based on the proportional achievement of the financial and nonfinancial targets. Although we monitor and accrue expenses quarterly based on our estimated progress toward the achievement of the annual targets, the actual results at the end of the year may require awards that are significantly greater or less than the estimates made in earlier quarters. For the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, we accrued $3.4 million and $11.4 million for such awards, compared with $3.7 million and $15.6 million for the same periods in 2012. Awards are typically distributed in the first quarter of the following year.

Stock-Based Compensation
We measure and recognize compensation expense for all stock-based awards made to employees and directors, including awards of stock options, stock sold pursuant to our Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and the issuance of restricted stock units and unrestricted stock awards, based on estimated fair values. The fair value of stock options is estimated at the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model, which includes assumptions for the dividend yield, expected volatility, risk-free interest rate, and expected term. The fair value of restricted stock units with a market condition is estimated at the date of award using a Monte Carlo simulation model, which includes assumptions for the dividend yield, expected volatility, risk-free interest rate and the expected term. In valuing our stock options and restricted stock units with a market condition, significant judgment is required in determining the expected volatility of our common stock and the expected life that individuals will hold their stock options prior to exercising. Expected volatility for stock options is based on the historical and implied volatility of our own common stock while the volatility for our restricted stock units with a market condition is based on the historical volatility of our own stock and the stock for companies comprising the market index within the market condition. The expected life of stock option grants is derived from the historical actual term of option grants and an estimate of future exercises during the remaining contractual period of the option. While volatility and estimated life are assumptions that do not bear the risk of change subsequent to the grant date of stock options, these assumptions may be difficult to measure as they represent future expectations based on historical experience. Further, our expected volatility and expected life may change in the future, which could substantially change the grant-date fair value of future awards of stock options and ultimately the expense we record. For ESPP awards, the fair value is the difference between the market close price of our common stock on the date of purchase and the discounted purchase price. For restricted stock units without a market condition and unrestricted stock awards, the fair value is the market close price of our common stock on the date of grant. We consider many factors when estimating expected forfeitures, including types of awards, employee class, and historical experience. Actual results and future estimates may differ substantially from our current estimates. We expense stock-based compensation at the date of grant for unrestricted stock awards. For awards with only a service condition, we expense stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, using the straight-line method over the requisite service period for the entire award. For awards with both performance and service conditions, we expense the stock-based compensation, adjusted for estimated forfeitures, on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award. Excess tax benefits are credited to common stock when the deduction reduces cash taxes payable. When we have tax deductions in excess of the compensation cost, they are classified as financing cash inflows in the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows.

Effective October 1, 2013, we changed the terms of the ESPP to reduce the discount to 5% from the fair market value of the stock at the end of each fiscal quarter. As a result of this change, the ESPP will no longer be considered compensatory, and no compensation expense will be recognized for future sales of our common stock to employees.

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Item 3:
Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk
In the normal course of business, we are exposed to interest rate and foreign currency exchange rate risks that could impact our financial position and results of operations. As part of our risk management strategy, we may use derivative financial instruments to hedge certain foreign currency and interest rate exposures. Our objective is to offset gains and losses resulting from these exposures with losses and gains on the derivative contracts used to hedge them, therefore reducing the impact of volatility on earnings or protecting the fair values of assets and liabilities. We use derivative contracts only to manage existing underlying exposures. Accordingly, we do not use derivative contracts for trading or speculative purposes.

Interest Rate Risk
We are exposed to interest rate risk through our variable rate debt instruments. In May 2012, we entered into six forward starting pay-fixed, receive one-month LIBOR interest rate swaps. The interest rate swaps convert $200 million of our LIBOR-based debt from a floating LIBOR interest rate to a fixed interest rate of 1.00% (excluding the applicable margin on the debt) and are effective from July 31, 2013 to August 8, 2016.

The table below provides information about our financial instruments that are sensitive to changes in interest rates and the scheduled minimum repayment of principal and the weighted average interest rates at September 30, 2013. Weighted average variable rates in the table are based on implied forward rates in the Reuters U.S. dollar yield curve as of September 30, 2013 and our estimated leverage ratio, which determines our additional interest rate margin at September 30, 2013.

 
2013
 
2014
 
2015
 
2016
 
2017
 
Total
 
Fair Value
 
(in thousands)
Variable Rate Debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal: U.S. dollar term loan
$
5,625

 
$
26,250

 
$
30,000

 
$
202,500

 
$

 
$
264,375

 
$
260,416

Average interest rate
1.67
 %
 
1.78
 %
 
2.15
 %
 
2.83
%
 
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Principal: Multicurrency revolving line of credit
$

 
$

 
$

 
$
135,000

 
$

 
$
135,000

 
$
132,855

Average interest rate
1.67
 %
 
1.78
 %
 
2.15
 %
 
2.83
%
 
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest rate swap on LIBOR-based debt
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average interest rate (Pay)
1.00
 %
 
1.00
 %
 
1.00
 %
 
1.00
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Average interest rate (Receive)
0.17
 %
 
0.28
 %
 
0.65
 %
 
1.33
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net/Spread
(0.83
)%
 
(0.72
)%
 
(0.35
)%
 
0.33
%
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Based on a sensitivity analysis as of September 30, 2013, we estimate that, if market interest rates average one percentage point higher in 2013 than in the table above, our financial results in 2013 would not be materially impacted.

We continually monitor and assess our interest rate risk and may institute additional interest rate swaps or other derivative instruments to manage such risk in the future.

Foreign Currency Exchange Rate Risk
We conduct business in a number of countries. As a result, over half of our revenues and operating expenses are denominated in foreign currencies, which expose our account balances to movements in foreign currency exchange rates that could have a material effect on our financial results. Our primary foreign currency exposure relates to non-U.S. dollar denominated transactions in our international subsidiary operations, the most significant of which is the euro. Revenues denominated in functional currencies other than the U.S. dollar were 56% and 60% of total revenues for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2013, respectively, compared with 62% and 58% for the same respective periods in 2012.

We are also exposed to foreign exchange risk when we enter into non-functional currency transactions, both intercompany and third-party. At each period-end, non-functional currency monetary assets and liabilities are revalued, with the change recorded to other income and expense. We enter into monthly foreign exchange forward contracts (a total of 385 contracts were entered into during the nine months ended September 30, 2013) not designated for hedge accounting, with the intent to reduce earnings volatility associated with certain of these balances. The notional amounts of the contracts ranged from $251,000 to $11.0 million, offsetting our exposures from the euro, Saudi riyal, Canadian dollar, Australian dollar, Brazilian real, South African rand, and various other currencies.
In future periods, we may use additional derivative contracts to protect against foreign currency exchange rate risks.

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Item 4:
Controls and Procedures

(a)
Evaluation of disclosure controls and procedures. At September 30, 2013, an evaluation was performed under the supervision and with the participation of our Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, of the effectiveness of the design and operation of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as such term is defined in Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Based on that evaluation, the Company’s management, including the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, concluded that as of September 30, 2013, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective to ensure the information required to be disclosed by an issuer in the reports that it files or submits under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 is accumulated and communicated to our management, including our principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, as appropriate, to allow timely decisions regarding required disclosure. There are inherent limitations to the effectiveness of any system of disclosure controls and procedures, including the possibility of human error and the circumvention or overriding of the controls and procedures. Accordingly, even effective disclosure controls and procedures can only provide reasonable assurance of achieving their control objectives.

(b)
Changes in internal controls over financial reporting. While we are continuing the process of upgrading our global enterprise resource software systems and information technology infrastructure, there have been no changes in our internal control over financial reporting during the three months ended September 30, 2013 that materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, internal control over financial reporting.



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PART II: OTHER INFORMATION
 

Item 1:
Legal Proceedings
Refer to Item 1: “Financial Statements, Note 11: Commitments and Contingencies”.

Item 1A:
Risk Factors
There were no material changes to risk factors during the third quarter of 2013 from those previously disclosed in Item 1A: "Risk Factors" of Part I of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, which was filed with the SEC on February 22, 2013.

Item 2:
Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds
(a) Not applicable.

(b) Not applicable.

(c) Issuer Repurchase of Equity Securities
The table below summarizes information about the Company's purchases of its shares of common stock, based on settlement date, during the quarterly period ended September 30, 2013.
Period
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased(1)
 
Average Price Paid per Share(2)
 
Total Number of Shares Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Dollar Value of Shares that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(in thousands)
July 1 through July 31
 
153,200

 
$
42.60

 
153,200

 
$
27,348

August 1 through August 31
 
21,000

 
43.51

 
21,000

 
26,434

September 1 through September 30
 

 

 

 
26,434

Total
 
174,200

 
$
42.71

 
174,200

 
 
(1) 
On March 8, 2013, the Board authorized a twelve-month repurchase program of up to $50 million of our common stock. Repurchases are made in the open market or in privately negotiated transactions, and in accordance with applicable securities laws. No shares were purchased outside of this plan.
(2) 
Includes commissions.

Item 5:
Other Information
(a) No information was required to be disclosed in a report on Form 8-K during the third quarter of 2013 that was not reported.

(b) Not applicable.

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Item 6:
Exhibits
 

 
 
 
Exhibit
Number
  
Description of Exhibits
 
 
31.1
  
Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
31.2
  
Certification Pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
32.1
 
Certification Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 
 
101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document.
 
 
101.SCH
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema.
 
 
101.CAL
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase.
 
 
101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase.
 
 
 
101.LAB
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase.
 
 
101.PRE
  
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase.
 
 
 


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SIGNATURE
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
 
 
 
ITRON, INC.
 
 
 
 
November 4, 2013
 
By:
/s/ STEVEN M. HELMBRECHT
Date
 
 
Steven M. Helmbrecht
 
 
 
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

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