Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis
ITEM 7.
MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
RESULTS OF OPERATIONS
Business overview
We are primarily a holding company. We operate in the component products industry through our majority-owned subsidiary, CompX International Inc. We also own a noncontrolling interest in Kronos Worldwide, Inc. Both CompX (NYSE American: CIX) and Kronos (NYSE: KRO) file periodic reports with the SEC.
CompX is a leading manufacturer of engineered components utilized in a variety of applications and industries. Through its Security Products operations, CompX manufactures mechanical and electronic cabinet locks and other locking mechanisms used in recreational transportation, postal, office and institutional furniture, cabinetry, tool storage and healthcare applications. CompX also manufactures stainless steel exhaust systems, gauges, throttle controls, wake enhancement systems, trim tabs and related hardware and accessories for the recreational marine and other industries through its Marine Components operations.
We account for our 30% non-controlling interest in Kronos by the equity method. Kronos is a leading global producer and marketer of value-added titanium dioxide pigments. TiO 2 is used for a variety of manufacturing applications including coatings, plastics, paper and other industrial products.
Net income overview
Our net income attributable to NL stockholders was $51.2 million, or $1.05 per share, in 2021 compared to net income of $14.7 million, or $.30 per share, in 2020 and net income of $25.8 million, or $.53 per share, in 2019.
As more fully described below, the increase in our earnings per share attributable to NL stockholders from 2020 to 2021 is primarily due to the effects of:
● equity in earnings from Kronos in 2021 of $34.3 million compared to $19.4 million in 2020,
● favorable relative changes in the value of marketable equity securities of $24.9 million, and
● higher income from operations attributable to CompX of $8.7 million in 2021.
As more fully described below, the decrease in our earnings per share attributable to NL stockholders from 2019 to 2020 is primarily due to the net effects of:
● a pre-tax litigation settlement expense of $19.3 million in 2019 (mostly recognized in the second quarter)
● equity in earnings from Kronos in 2020 of $19.4 million compared to $26.5 million in 2019,
● unfavorable relative changes in the value of marketable equity securities of $7.8 million,
● lower income from operations attributable to CompX of $5.9 million in 2020,
● lower insurance recoveries in 2020 of $5.0 million related primarily to a single insurance recovery settlement of $4.5 million in 2019 for certain past and future litigation defense costs,
● a gain of $4.4 million in 2019 related to a sale of excess property, recognized in the third quarter,
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● a gain of $3.0 million in 2019 related to the sale of our insurance and risk management business, recognized in the fourth quarter, and
● lower litigation fees and related costs of $2.1 million in 2020.
Our 2019 net income per share attributable to NL stockholders includes:
● a loss of $.31 per share, net of income tax benefit, related to the litigation settlement expense, recognized mainly in the second quarter,
● income of $.08 per share, net of income tax expense, related to insurance recoveries, recognized mainly in the second quarter,
● income of $.07 per share, net of income tax expense, related to a gain from a sale of excess property, recognized in the third quarter,
● income of $.05 per share, net of income tax expense, related to a gain from the sale of our insurance and risk management business, recognized in the fourth quarter,
● a loss of $.03 per share related to Kronos’ fourth quarter recognition of a non-cash deferred income tax expense primarily related to the revaluation of Kronos’ net deferred income tax asset in Germany as a result of a decrease in the German trade tax rate,
● income of $.01 per share related to Kronos’ fourth quarter recognition of an income tax benefit related to the favorable settlement of a prior year tax matter in Germany, and
● income of $.01 per share related to Kronos’ insurance settlement gain recognized in the fourth quarter.
Outlook
Excluding any potential effects from changes in the relative value of marketable securities, we currently expect our net income attributable to NL stockholders in 2022 to be higher than 2021 primarily due to higher expected income from operations attributable to CompX and higher equity in earnings from Kronos partially offset by higher litigation fees and related costs and higher environmental remediation and related costs.
Income (loss) from operations
The following table shows the components of our income (loss) from operations.
Years ended December 31,
% Change
2019
2020
2021
2019-20
2020-21
(Dollars in millions)
CompX
$
17.7
$
11.8
$
20.5
(33)
%
74
%
Insurance recoveries
5.1
.1
.1
(98)
(12)
Other income, net
7.4
—
—
n.m.
—
Litigation settlement expense, net
(19.3)
—
—
n.m.
—
Corporate expense
(12.5)
(9.5)
(10.1)
(24)
6
Income (loss) from operations
$
(1.6)
$
2.4
$
10.5
246
345
n.m. Not meaningful.
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The following table shows the components of our income before income taxes exclusive of our income (loss) from operations.
Years ended December 31,
% Change
2019
2020
2021
2019-20
2020-21
(Dollars in millions)
Equity in earnings of Kronos
$
26.5
$
19.4
$
34.3
(27)
%
77
%
Marketable equity securities unrealized (loss) gain
(.9)
(8.7)
16.2
905
287
Other components of net periodic pension and
OPEB cost
(1.4)
(.8)
(.6)
(43)
(15)
Interest and dividend income
6.7
2.6
1.6
(61)
(38)
Interest expense
(.7)
(1.3)
(1.1)
98
(15)
CompX International Inc.
Years ended December 31,
% Change
2019
2020
2021
2019-20
2020-21
(Dollars in millions)
Net sales
$
124.2
$
114.5
$
140.8
(8)
%
23
%
Cost of sales
85.2
81.7
98.1
(4)
20
Gross margin
39.0
32.8
42.7
(16)
30
Operating costs and expenses
21.3
21.0
22.2
(1)
6
Income from operations
$
17.7
$
11.8
$
20.5
(33)
74
Percentage of net sales:
Cost of sales
68.6
%
71.3
%
69.7
%
Gross margin
31.4
28.7
30.3
Operating costs and expenses
17.1
18.4
15.8
Income from operations
14.2
10.3
14.6
Net sales - Net sales increased approximately $26.3 million in 2021 compared to 2020 primarily due to higher sales at both CompX business units, particularly in the second quarter of 2021, as many of CompX’s customers were temporarily closed or reduced production during the second quarter of 2020 due to government ordered closures or reduced demand resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. Beginning in the third quarter of 2020 and continuing through 2021, Marine Components sales exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Security Products sales generally improved since third quarter of 2020 but did not recover to pre-pandemic levels until the second quarter of 2021 when sales improved in markets that had been slower to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly sales to distributors and the office furniture market.
Net sales decreased approximately $9.7 million in 2020 compared to 2019 primarily due to lower Security Products sales across a variety of markets due to reduced demand resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, offset slightly by higher Marine Component sales to the towboat market.
Cost of sales and gross margin - Cost of sales increased in 2021 compared to 2020 primarily due to the effects of higher sales, as well as increased production costs at both of CompX’s business units. Gross margin as a percentage of sales increased over the same period due to the increase in CompX’s Security Products gross margin percentage partially offset by the decrease in CompX’s Marine Components gross margin percentage.
Cost of sales decreased in 2020 compared to 2019 primarily due to the effects of lower sales for CompX’s Security Products business slightly offset by the higher CompX Marine Component sales discussed above. Gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased over the same period primarily as a result of the lower gross margin percentage at Security Products.
Operating costs and expenses - Operating costs and expenses consist primarily of sales and administrative-related personnel costs, sales commissions and advertising expenses directly related to product sales and administrative costs relating to CompX’s businesses and its corporate management activities, as well as gains and losses on property and equipment. Operating costs and expenses increased in 2021 compared to 2020 predominantly due to higher salary and
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benefit costs which increased by $.9 million. As a percentage of sales, operating costs and expenses decreased in 2021 compared to 2020 primarily due to the effect of higher sales.
Operating costs and expenses in 2020 were comparable to 2019. As a percentage of sales, operating costs and expenses increased in 2020 compared to 2019 due to the effect of lower sales.
Income from operations - As a percentage of net sales, operating income increased in 2021 compared to 2020 and decreased in 2020 compared to 2019. Operating margins were primarily impacted by the factors impacting net sales, cost of sales, gross margin and operating costs discussed above.
General - CompX’s profitability primarily depends on its ability to utilize production capacity effectively, which is affected by, among other things, the demand for its products and its ability to control manufacturing costs, primarily comprised of labor costs and materials. The materials used in its products consist of purchased components and raw materials some of which are subject to fluctuations in the commodity markets such as zinc, brass and stainless steel. Total material costs represented approximately 44% of CompX’s cost of sales in 2021, with commodity-related raw materials accounting for approximately 16% of cost of sales. Prices for the primary commodity-related raw materials used in the manufacture of its locking mechanisms, primarily zinc and brass, remained relatively stable during 2020 but generally increased throughout 2021. Prices for stainless steel, the primary raw material used for the manufacture of marine exhaust headers and pipes and wake enhancement systems, remained relatively stable in 2020 but experienced significant volatility during 2021. Based on current economic conditions, CompX expects the prices for its primary commodity-related raw materials and other manufacturing materials to be volatile during 2022.
CompX occasionally enters into short-term commodity-related raw material supply arrangements to mitigate the impact of future increases in commodity related raw material costs. See Item 1 - “Business- Raw Materials.”
Results by reporting unit
The key performance indicator for CompX’s reporting units is the level of their income from operations (see discussion below).
Years ended December 31,
% Change
2019
2020
2021
2019-20
2020-21
(Dollars in millions)
Security Products:
Net sales
$
99.3
$
87.9
$
105.1
(12)
%
20
%
Cost of sales
67.1
62.1
71.5
(7)
15
Gross margin
32.2
25.8
33.6
(20)
30
Operating costs and expenses
11.2
10.9
12.0
(3)
11
Operating income
$
21.0
$
14.9
$
21.6
(29)
45
Gross margin
32.5
%
29.4
%
32.0
%
Operating income margin
21.2
17.0
20.6
Security Products - Security Products net sales increased 20% to $105.1 million in 2021 compared to $87.9 million in 2020 when it experienced reduced demand across a variety of markets due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Relative to prior year, sales were $7.2 million higher to the government security market, $4.9 million higher to the transportation market, and $2.0 million higher to distribution customers. Gross margin as a percentage of net sales for 2021 increased as compared to 2020 due to increased coverage of fixed costs from higher sales, partially offset by higher production costs including increased raw materials costs across a variety of commodities and component inputs, higher shipping costs, and increased labor costs primarily due to higher overtime costs and increased headcount. Operating income margin increased for 2021 compared to 2020 primarily due to increased coverage of operating costs and expenses on higher sales, partially offset by the higher production costs impacting gross margin and increased sales and administrative-related salary and benefit costs of $.7 million.
Security Products net sales decreased 12% to $87.9 million in 2020 compared to $99.3 million in 2019. Certain security products market segments were slower to recover from the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, primarily in the second and third quarters, including transportation which had $4.4 million lower sales than 2019, distribution
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customers which were $2.5 million lower than 2019, and office furniture which was $1.8 million lower than 2019. Gross margin and operating income margin for 2020 declined as compared to 2019 primarily due to lower sales and higher cost inventory produced during the second and third quarters and sold in the last half of the year. Security Products inventory produced during the second and third quarters of 2020 had a higher carrying value compared to prior periods due to higher cost per unit of production as a result of lower production volumes during these quarters of 2020. This negatively impacted gross margin and operating income margin as this higher cost inventory was sold during the last half of 2020. Additionally, gross margin and operating income margin were unfavorably impacted by employer paid medical costs, unrelated to the pandemic, which increased $2.1 million in 2020 compared to 2019.
Years ended December 31,
% Change
2019
2020
2021
2019-20
2020-21
(Dollars in millions)
Marine Components:
Net sales
$
24.9
$
26.6
$
35.7
7
%
34
%
Cost of sales
18.2
19.6
26.6
8
36
Gross margin
6.7
7.0
9.1
5
29
Operating costs and expenses
3.1
2.9
3.5
(4)
18
Operating income
$
3.6
$
4.1
$
5.6
12
37
Gross margin
27.0
%
26.4
%
25.4
%
Operating income margin
14.6
15.3
15.7
Marine Components - Marine Components net sales increased 34% in 2021 as compared to 2020 primarily due to increased sales of $7.2 million to several original equipment boat manufactures in the towboat market. Gross margin as a percentage of sales decreased in 2021 compared to 2020 as increased coverage of fixed costs from higher sales were more than offset by higher production costs including raw materials costs (primarily stainless steel), higher shipping costs, and increased labor costs resulting from higher overtime costs and increased headcount. Operating income as a percentage of net sales increased slightly in 2021 compared to 2020 due to increased coverage of operating costs and expenses from higher sales, partially offset by the factors impacting gross margin.
Marine Components net sales increased 7% in 2020 as compared to 2019 primarily due to increased sales of $2.9 million to the towboat market, primarily wake enhancement systems and surf pipes to an original equipment boat manufacturer, predominantly in the second half of the year. Gross margin as a percentage of sales in 2020 was slightly below 2019 due to higher cost inventory produced during the second quarter and sold in the third quarter of the year, as well as higher depreciation expense resulting from the timing of capital expenditures. Operating income as a percentage of net sales increased in 2020 compared to 2019 principally due to the slight decrease in operating costs and expenses.
Outlook – Beginning in the second half of 2020, CompX’s sales began to steadily improve from the historically low levels it experienced during the second quarter of 2020 as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Throughout 2021, CompX experienced strong demand at both its business units. CompX’s manufacturing facilities operated at elevated production rates during 2021 in line with improved demand, although labor markets are tight in each of the regions in which it operates and, as a result, CompX has experienced and continues to have challenges maintaining staffing levels aligned with current and forecasted demand, particularly at its Marine Components business unit.
Based on current market conditions, CompX expects demand levels to remain strong in 2022 and it expects to report increased net sales and operating income in 2022 compared to 2021. CompX’s supply chains remain intact, although the current global and domestic supply chain disruptions continue to present challenges in sourcing certain raw materials due to increased lead times, availability shortages and transportation and logistics delays. Thus far CompX has been able to manage through these disruptions with minimal impact on its operations. In addition, CompX is experiencing increased production costs including higher labor, shipping, and increasing costs of many of the raw materials it uses including zinc, brass and stainless steel. In response, CompX implemented price increases and surcharges; however, the extent to which the price increases and surcharges will mitigate the rising costs is uncertain and CompX expects increasing production costs will negatively impact gross margins in 2022 as higher cost inventories are sold. CompX’s operations teams meet frequently to ensure they are taking appropriate actions to minimize material or supply related operational disruptions, manage inventory levels, and improve operating margins and to maintain a safe working environment for all its employees.
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CompX’s expectations for its operations and the markets it serves are based on a number of factors outside its control. As noted above, there are global and domestic supply chain challenges and any future impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on CompX’s operations will depend on, among other things, any future disruption in its operations or its suppliers’ operations, demand for its products and the timing and effectiveness of the global measures deployed to fight COVID-19, all of which remain uncertain and cannot be predicted.
General corporate items, interest and dividend income, interest expense, provision for income taxes, noncontrolling interest and related party transactions
Insurance recoveries - We have agreements with certain insurance carriers pursuant to which the carriers reimburse us for a portion of our past lead pigment and asbestos litigation defense costs. Insurance recoveries include amounts we received from these insurance carriers. We recognized $5.1 million in insurance recoveries in 2019 primarily related to a single settlement we reached with one of our insurance carriers in which they agreed to reimburse us for a portion of our past and future litigation defense costs.
The agreements with certain of our insurance carriers also include reimbursement for a portion of our future litigation defense costs. We are not able to determine how much we will ultimately recover from these carriers for defense costs incurred by us because of certain issues that arise regarding which defense costs qualify for reimbursement. Accordingly, these insurance recoveries are recognized when receipt is probable and the amount is determinable. See Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Other income, net - Other income, net in 2019 includes a gain of $4.4 million related to a sale of excess property in the third quarter and a gain of $3.0 million related to the sale of our insurance and risk management business in the fourth quarter. See Note 13 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Litigation settlement expense - We recognized a pre-tax $19.3 million litigation settlement expense net of expected insurance recoveries in 2019 related to the lead pigment litigation in California. See Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Corporate expense - Corporate expenses were $10.1 million in 2021, $.6 million or 6% higher than in 2020 primarily due to higher environmental remediation and related costs partially offset by lower administrative expenses. Included in corporate expenses are:
● litigation fees and related costs of $1.9 million in each of 2021 and 2020, and
● environmental remediation and related costs of $.8 million in 2021 compared to $.1 million in 2020.
Corporate expenses were $9.5 million in 2020, $3.0 million or 24% lower than in 2019 primarily due to lower litigation fees and related costs and lower administrative expenses partially offset by higher environmental remediation and related costs. Included in corporate expenses are:
● litigation fees and related costs of $1.9 million in 2020 compared to $4.0 million in 2019, and
● environmental remediation and related costs of $.1 million in 2020 compared to a benefit of $.6 million in 2019.
Overall, we currently expect that our general corporate expenses in 2022 will be higher than in 2021 primarily due to higher expected litigation fees and related costs and higher environmental remediation and related costs.
The level of our litigation fees and related costs varies from period to period depending upon, among other things, the number of cases in which we are currently involved, the nature of such cases and the current stage of such cases (e.g. discovery, pre-trial motions, trial or appeal, if applicable). See Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. If our current expectations regarding the number of cases in which we expect to be involved during 2022 or the nature of such cases were to change, our corporate expenses could be higher than we currently estimate.
Obligations for environmental remediation and related costs are difficult to assess and estimate and it is possible that actual costs for environmental remediation will exceed accrued amounts or that costs will be incurred in the future for sites in which we cannot currently estimate our liability. If these events were to occur in 2022, our corporate expenses
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would be higher than we currently estimate. In addition, we adjust our environmental accruals as further information becomes available to us or as circumstances change. Such further information or changed circumstances could result in an increase in our accrued environmental costs. See Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Interest and dividend income - Interest income decreased $1.0 million in 2021 compared to 2020 primarily due to lower average balances on CompX’s revolving promissory note receivable from Valhi. Interest income decreased $4.1 million in 2020 compared to 2019 primarily due to lower average balances and lower interest rates on CompX’s revolving promissory note receivable from Valhi as well as lower average interest rates on invested balances partially offset by higher cash and cash equivalents available for investment. We also recognized $.6 million of accrued interest income on the insurance recovery receivable in the second quarter of 2019.
Marketable equity securities - Unrealized gains or losses on our marketable equity securities are recognized in Marketable equity securities on our Consolidated Statements of Income. See Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Income tax expense (benefit) - We recognized an income tax expense of $.6 million in 2019, an income tax benefit of $2.5 million in 2020 and an income tax expense of $7.5 million in 2021.
In accordance with GAAP, we recognize deferred income taxes on our undistributed equity in earnings of Kronos. Because we and Kronos are part of the same U.S. federal income tax group, any dividends we receive from Kronos are nontaxable to us. Accordingly, we do not recognize and we are not required to pay income taxes on dividends from Kronos. Therefore, our full-year effective income tax rate will generally be lower than the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate in years during which we receive dividends from Kronos and recognize equity in earnings of Kronos. Conversely, our effective income tax rate will generally be higher than the U.S. federal statutory income tax rate in years during which we receive dividends from Kronos and recognize equity in losses of Kronos. During interim periods, our effective income tax rate may not necessarily correspond to the foregoing due to the application of accounting for income taxes in interim periods which requires us to base our effective rate on full year projections. We received aggregate dividends from Kronos of $25.4 million in each of 2019, 2020 and 2021. Our effective tax rate attributable to our equity in earnings (losses) of Kronos, including the effect of non-taxable dividends we received from Kronos, was .9% expense in 2019, a 6.4% benefit in 2020 and 5.5% expense in 2021. The reduction in our effective rate from 2019 to 2020 and increase in our effective rate from 2020 to 2021 is primarily attributable to the net effects of Kronos’ lower earnings in 2020 as compared to 2019 and higher earnings in 2021 as compared to 2020 and the impact of the income tax benefit related to the non-taxable dividends received from Kronos.
See Note 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for more information about our 2021 income tax items, including a tabular reconciliation of our statutory tax expense (benefit) to our actual tax expense (benefit).
Noncontrolling interest - Noncontrolling interest in net income of CompX attributable to continuing operations is consistent in 2019 and 2021 but lower in 2020 due to lower earnings of CompX in 2020 as a result of reduced demand resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Related party transactions - We are a party to certain transactions with related parties. See Notes 1 and 16 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. It is our policy to engage in transactions with related parties on terms, in our opinion, no less favorable to us than we could obtain from unrelated parties.
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Equity in earnings of Kronos Worldwide, Inc.
Years ended December 31,
% Change
2019
2020
2021
2019-20
2020-21
(Dollars in millions)
Net sales
$
1,731.1
$
1,638.8
$
1,939.4
(5)
%
18
%
Cost of sales
1,344.9
1,287.6
1,493.2
(4)
16
%
Gross margin
$
386.2
$
351.2
$
446.2
Income from operations
$
145.8
$
116.2
$
187.1
(20)
%
61
%
Other loss, net
(6.0)
(17.2)
(14.1)
187
(18)
Interest expense
(18.7)
(19.0)
(19.6)
2
3
Income before income taxes
121.1
80.0
153.4
Income tax expense
34.0
16.1
40.5
Net income
$
87.1
$
63.9
$
112.9
Percentage of net sales:
Cost of sales
78
%
79
%
77
%
Income from operations
8
%
7
%
10
%
Equity in earnings of Kronos Worldwide, Inc.
$
26.5
$
19.4
$
34.3
TiO 2 operating statistics:
Sales volumes*
566
531
563
(6)
%
6
%
Production volumes*
546
517
545
(5)
%
5
%
Change in TiO 2 net sales:
TiO 2 product pricing
(2)
%
8
%
TiO 2 sales volumes
(6)
6
TiO 2 product mix/other
2
1
Changes in currency exchange rates
1
3
Total
(5)
%
18
%
* Thousands of metric tons
Industry conditions and 2021 overview - Kronos started 2021 with average TiO 2 selling prices 3% lower than at the beginning of 2020. Kronos’ average TiO 2 selling prices in 2021 were 16% higher than the beginning of the year, including a 6% increase in the last quarter of the year, in response to its rising production costs and strong customer demand. Kronos experienced higher sales volumes in its European, North American and Latin American markets in 2021 as compared to sales volumes in 2020, primarily due to the COVID-19 related demand contraction in 2020 which impacted the second and third quarters and was most acute in the second quarter of 2020.
The following table shows Kronos’ capacity utilization rates during 2021 and 2020. TiO 2 production volumes were higher in 2021 as compared to 2020 to meet higher customer demand in 2021. Kronos decreased production levels in 2020 (primarily in the third quarter) to correspond to the temporary decline in demand resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020
2021
First Quarter
95
%
97
%
Second Quarter
96
%
100
%
Third Quarter
86
%
100
%
Fourth Quarter
92
%
100
%
Overall
92
%
100
%
Net sales - Kronos net sales increased $300.6 million, or 18%, in 2021 compared to 2020, primarily due to an 8% increase in average TiO 2 selling prices (which increased net sales by approximately $131 million) and a 6% increase in
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sales volumes (which increased net sales by approximately $98 million). In addition to the impact of higher sales volumes and higher average selling prices, Kronos estimates that changes in currency exchange rates (primarily the euro) increased its net sales by approximately $43 million, or 3%, as compared to 2020. TiO 2 selling prices will increase or decrease generally as a result of competitive market pressures, changes in the relative level of supply and demand as well as changes in raw material and other manufacturing costs.
Kronos’ sales volumes increased 6% in 2021 as compared to 2020 primarily due to higher demand in its European, North American and Latin American markets, with a significant portion of the increase occurring in the second and third quarters as a result of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the comparable periods in 2020, as discussed above.
Kronos’ net sales decreased $92.3 million, or 5%, in 2020 compared to 2019, primarily due to a 6% decrease in sales volumes (which decreased net sales by approximately $104 million) and a 2% decrease in average TiO 2 selling prices (which decreased net sales by approximately $35 million). In addition to the impact of lower sales volumes and lower average selling prices, Kronos estimates that changes in currency exchange rates (primarily the euro) increased its net sales by approximately $9 million, or 1%, as compared to 2019.
Kronos’ sales volumes decreased 6% in 2020 as compared to the sales volumes of 2019 due to lower sales volumes in all major markets, with the European and export markets experiencing the most significant reductions. A significant portion of the sales volume decrease occurred in the second and third quarters as a result of the demand contraction related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Cost of sales and gross margin – Kronos’ cost of sales increased $205.6 million, or 16%, in 2021 compared to 2020 due to a 6% increase in sales volumes and higher production costs of approximately $69 million (including higher costs for raw materials and energy) and the effects of currency fluctuations (primarily the Canadian dollar). Kronos’ cost of sales as a percentage of net sales decreased to 77% in 2021 compared to 79% in 2020 primarily due to the favorable effects of higher average TiO 2 selling prices and increased coverage of fixed costs from higher production, partially offset by higher production costs (including higher raw material and energy costs) as well as the effects of fluctuations in currency exchange rates, as discussed below.
Gross margin as a percentage of net sales increased to 23% in 2021 compared to 21% in 2020. Kronos’ gross margin as a percentage of net sales in 2021 increased primarily due to the net effects of higher average TiO 2 selling prices, higher production and sales volumes, higher production costs and fluctuations in currency exchange rates.
Kronos’ cost of sales decreased $57.3 million, or 4%, in 2020 compared to 2019 due to the net effect of a 6% decrease in sales volumes, higher raw materials and other production costs of approximately $6 million (including higher cost for third-party feedstock and other raw materials) and currency exchange rate fluctuations. Kronos’ cost of sales per metric ton of TiO 2 sold in 2020 was higher as compared to 2019 (excluding the effect of changes in currency exchange rates) primarily due to a moderate rise in the cost of third-party feedstock we procured in 2019 and the first half of 2020. Kronos’ cost of sales as a percentage of net sales increased to 79% in 2020 compared to 78% in 2019 primarily due to the unfavorable effects of lower average TiO 2 selling prices and higher raw materials and other production costs, as discussed above, partially offset by improved sales and production volumes from its ilmenite mine operations.
Kronos’ gross margin as a percentage of net sales decreased to 21% in 2020 compared to 22% in 2019. Kronos’ gross margin as a percentage of net sales 2020 decreased primarily due to the net effect of lower sales volumes, lower average TiO 2 selling prices, higher raw materials and other production costs and higher sales from its ilmenite mine operations.
Other operating income and expense, net – Kronos’ selling, general and administrative expenses were approximately 13% of net sales in each of 2021, 2020 and 2019. Kronos’ selling, general and administrative expenses increased $30.3 million, or 14%, in 2021 compared to 2020 primarily due to higher variable costs (primarily distribution costs) related to higher overall sales volumes. Kronos’ selling, general and administrative expenses decreased $9.6 million, or 4%, in 2020 compared to 2019 primarily due to variable costs related to lower overall sales volumes.
Income from operations – Kronos’ income from operations increased by $70.9 million or 61%, from $116.2 million in 2020 to $187.1 million in 2021. Income from operations as a percentage of net sales increased to 10% in 2021 from 7% in 2020. This increase was driven by the higher gross margin for the comparable periods discussed above. Kronos
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estimates that changes in currency exchange rates decreased income from operations by approximately $13 million in 2021 as compared to 2020 as discussed in the Effects of currency exchange rates section below.
Kronos’ income from operations decreased by $29.6 million, from $145.8 million in 2019 to $116.2 million in 2020. Income from operations as a percentage of net sales was 7% in 2020 compared to 8% in 2019. This decrease was driven by the lower gross margin discussed above for the comparable periods.
Kronos’ income from operations in 2020 was also minimally impacted by the effects of Hurricane Laura which temporarily halted production at LPC on August 24, 2020. Although storm damage to core manufacturing facilities was not severe, a variety of factors, including loss of utilities, limited availability of employees to return to work and restrictions on the facility’s access to raw materials, prevented the resumption of operations until September 25, 2020. LPC believes insurance (subject to applicable deductibles) will cover a majority of its losses, including those related to property damage and the disruption of its operations. The Kronos warehouse and slurry facilities located near LPC’s facility were also temporarily closed due to the hurricane, but property damage to these facilities was not significant. Kronos’ 2020 income from operations includes immaterial costs related to Hurricane Laura, primarily costs to relocate inventory and modify shipping schedules in order to maintain service levels to its customers following the hurricane. Kronos believes insurance (subject to applicable deductibles) will cover a majority of its losses from the hurricane, including property damage, business interruption losses related to its share of LPC’s lost production and other costs resulting from the disruption of operations. To date, Kronos has not yet recognized any insurance recoveries because the ultimate disposition of its portion of the business interruption claim is not yet determinable; however, LPC has received a portion of the proceeds related to its property damage claim. On October 9, 2020 Hurricane Delta caused an additional temporary halt to production at the LPC facility. Damages resulting from Hurricane Delta were not as severe and production activities were resumed within five days from the time of initial shutdown prior to landfall of the hurricane. Similar to Hurricane Laura, losses determined to be incurred by LPC and Kronos as a result of Hurricane Delta are expected to be recoverable from insurance (subject to applicable deductibles).
Other non-operating income (expense) - Kronos recognized a gain of $2.0 million in 2021 and a loss of $1.1 million in 2020 on the change in value of its marketable equity securities. Other components of net periodic pension and postretirement benefits other than pensions, or OPEB, cost in 2021 decreased $2.9 million compared to 2020 primarily due to higher expected returns on plan assets offset by the net effects of lower discount rates impacting interest cost and previously unrecognized actuarial losses. Kronos recognized an insurance settlement gain of $1.5 million during 2020 related to a property damage claim. Interest expense in 2021 increased $.6 million compared to 2020 due to the refinancing of Kronos’ revolving credit facility in the second quarter of 2021 and the effects of changes in currency exchange rates.
Kronos recognized a loss of $1.1 million in 2020 and $.1 million in 2019 on the change in value of its marketable equity securities. Other components of net periodic pension and OPEB cost in 2020 increased $4.2 million compared to 2019 primarily due to increased amortization costs from previously unrecognized actuarial losses as a result of lower discount rates and lower expected returns on plan assets. Interest expense in 2020 was comparable to 2019.
Income tax expense - Kronos recognized income tax expense of $40.5 million in 2021 compared to income tax expense of $16.1 million in 2020. The increase is primarily due to higher earnings in 2021 and the jurisdictional mix of Kronos’ earnings.
Kronos recognized income tax expense of $16.1 million in 2020 compared to income tax expense of $34.0 million in 2019. The decrease is primarily due to lower earnings in 2020 and the jurisdictional mix of such earnings. In addition, Kronos’ income tax expense in 2019 includes an income tax benefit recognized in the fourth quarter of $3.0 million related to the favorable settlement of a prior year tax matter in Germany, with $1.5 million recognized as a current cash tax benefit and $1.5 million recognized as a non-cash deferred income tax benefit related to an increase to its German net operating loss carryforward. In addition, in the fourth quarter of 2019, Kronos recognized a non-cash deferred income tax expense of $5.5 million primarily related to the revaluation of its net deferred income tax asset in Germany resulting from a decrease in the German trade tax rate.
Kronos earnings are subject to income tax in various U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions. Generally, Kronos’ consolidated effective income tax rate is higher than the U.S. federal statutory tax rate of 21% primarily because the income tax rates applicable to the pre-tax earnings (losses) of its non-U.S. operations are generally higher than the income tax rates applicable to its U.S. operations. However, in 2020 Kronos’ consolidated effective income tax rate was lower than
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the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% due to the effect of lower earnings and tax benefits associated with losses incurred in certain high tax jurisdictions.
Kronos consolidated effective income tax rate in 2022 is expected to be higher than the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% because the income tax rates applicable to the earnings (losses) of its non-U.S. operations will be higher than the income tax rates applicable to its U.S. operations and due to the expected mix of earnings.
Effects of currency exchange rates
Kronos has substantial operations and assets located outside the United States (primarily in Germany, Belgium, Norway and Canada). The majority of its sales from non-U.S. operations are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, principally the euro, other major European currencies and the Canadian dollar. A portion of Kronos sales generated from its non-U.S. operations is denominated in the U.S. dollar (and consequently its non-U.S. operations will generally hold U.S. dollars from time to time). Certain raw materials used in all Kronos’ production facilities, primarily titanium-containing feedstocks, are purchased primarily in U.S. dollars, while labor and other production and administrative costs are incurred primarily in local currencies. Consequently, the translated U.S. dollar value of Kronos’ non-U.S. sales and operating results are subject to currency exchange rate fluctuations which may favorably or unfavorably impact reported earnings and may affect the comparability of period-to-period operating results. In addition to the impact of the translation of sales and expenses over time, Kronos’ non-U.S. operations also generate currency transaction gains and losses which primarily relate to (i) the difference between the currency exchange rates in effect when non-local currency sales or operating costs (primarily U.S. dollar denominated) are initially accrued and when such amounts are settled with the non-local currency and (ii) changes in currency exchange rates during time periods when its non-U.S. operations are holding non-local currency (primarily U.S. dollars).
Overall, Kronos estimates that fluctuations in currency exchange rates had the following effects on its sales and income from operations for the periods indicated.
Impact of changes in currency exchange rates -2021 vs. 2020
Translation
gains (losses)-
Total currency
Transaction gains recognized
impact of
impact
2020
2021
Change
rate changes
2021 vs 2020
(In millions)
Impact on:
Net sales
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
43
$
43
Income from operations
(4)
2
6
(19)
(13)
The $43 million increase in Kronos’ net sales (translation gain) was caused primarily by a weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the euro, as Kronos’ euro-denominated sales were translated into more U.S. dollars in 2021 as compared to 2020. The weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar and the Norwegian krone in 2021 did not have a significant effect on the reported amount of Kronos’ net sales, as a substantial portion of the sales generated by its Canadian and Norwegian operations are denominated in the U.S. dollar.
The $13 million decrease in income from operations was comprised of the following:
● Higher net currency transaction gains of approximately $6 million primarily caused by relative changes in currency exchange rates at each applicable balance sheet date between the U.S. dollar and the euro, Canadian dollar and the Norwegian krone, and between the euro and the Norwegian krone, which causes increases or decreases, as applicable, in U.S. dollar-denominated receivables and payables and U.S. dollar currency held by Kronos’ non-U.S. operations, and in Norwegian krone denominated receivables and payables held by its non-U.S. operations, and
● Approximately $19 million from net currency translation losses primarily caused by a weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar and Norwegian krone, as local currency-denominated operating costs were translated into more U.S. dollars in 2021 as compared to 2020, partially offset by net currency translation gains primarily caused by a weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the euro as the positive effects
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of the weaker U.S. dollar on euro-denominated sales more than offset the unfavorable effects of euro-denominated operating costs being translated into more U.S. dollars in 2021 as compared to 2020.
Impact of changes in currency exchange rates - 2020 vs. 2019
Translation
gains
Total currency
Transaction gains/(losses) recognized
impact of
impact
2019
2020
Change
rate changes
2020 vs. 2019
(In millions)
Impact on:
Net sales
$
—
$
—
$
—
$
9
$
9
Income from operations
2
(4)
(6)
12
6
The $9 million increase in Kronos’ net sales (translation gain) was caused primarily by a weakening of the U.S. dollar relative to the euro, as its euro-denominated sales were translated into more U.S. dollars in 2020 as compared to 2019. The strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar and the Norwegian krone in 2020 did not have a significant effect on the reported amount of Kronos’ net sales, as a substantial portion of the sales generated by its Canadian and Norwegian operations are denominated in the U.S. dollar.
The $6 million increase in income from operations was comprised of the following:
● Lower net currency transaction gains of approximately $6 million primarily caused by relative changes in currency exchange rates at each applicable balance sheet date between the U.S. dollar and the euro, Canadian dollar and the Norwegian krone, and between the euro and the Norwegian krone, which causes increases or decreases, as applicable, in U.S. dollar-denominated receivables and payables and U.S. dollar currency held by Kronos’ non-U.S. operations, and in Norwegian krone denominated receivables and payables held by its non-U.S. operations, and
● Approximately $12 million from net currency translation gains primarily caused by a strengthening of the U.S. dollar relative to the Canadian dollar and Norwegian krone, as local currency-denominated operating costs were translated into fewer U.S. dollars in 2020 as compared to 2019, and such translation, as it related to the U.S. dollar relative to the euro, had a nominal effect on income from operations in 2020 as compared to 2019.
Outlook
Based on current market conditions, Kronos expects global demand for consumer products, including those of its customers, to remain strong throughout 2022. Therefore, Kronos expects to continue to produce at full capacity and will match sales volumes with production volumes which will result in lower sales volumes in 2022 as compared to 2021 based on current inventory levels. As global economic activity continued to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic throughout 2021, Kronos experienced certain disruptions in global supply chains including availability of third-party feedstock and other raw materials along with transportation and logistics delays. Thus far, Kronos’ operations team has been able to manage through these disruptions with minimal impact on its operations; however, Kronos expects these challenges to continue for the foreseeable future. Kronos experienced increases in its feedstock costs in 2021 (primarily in the second half of 2021) and it expects its feedstock costs to continue to increase in 2022 as compared to the average 2021 costs. In addition to feedstock increases, Kronos continues to experience increasing production costs, including higher raw material and related shipping costs and higher energy and utility costs (especially in Europe), all of which are likely to continue into 2022. At the beginning of 2021, Kronos’ average TiO 2 selling prices were 3% lower than at the beginning of 2020 and average TiO 2 selling prices increased 16% in 2021. As a result of rising costs and continued strong customer demand, Kronos expects selling prices for TiO 2 will continue to rise in 2022, which Kronos expects to mitigate increases in distribution, raw material, energy and other production costs. Kronos expects 2022 sales and income from operations will be higher than in 2021; however, increasing costs will continue to challenge margins. Kronos continues to monitor current and anticipated near-term customer demand levels and will align its production and inventories accordingly.
Kronos’ expectations for the TiO 2 industry and its operations are based on a number of factors outside its control, including the ongoing economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. As noted above, Kronos has experienced global supply chain disruptions, including disruptions related to COVID-19, and future impacts of COVID-19 on its operations will depend on, among other things, any future disruption in its operations or its suppliers’ operations, or related possible
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shipping delays, and the timing and effectiveness of the global measures deployed to fight COVID-19 and its variants, all of which remain uncertain and cannot be predicted.
Operations outside the United States
Kronos - Kronos has substantial operations located outside the United States (principally Europe and Canada) for which the functional currency is not the U.S. dollar. As a result, the reported amount of our net investment in Kronos will fluctuate based upon changes in currency exchange rates. At December 31, 2021, Kronos had substantial net assets denominated in the euro, Canadian dollar and Norwegian krone.
Critical accounting policies and estimates
Our significant accounting policies are more fully described in Note 1 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. Our Consolidated Financial Statements have been prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) which requires us to make estimates, judgments and assumptions we believe are reasonable based on our historical experience, observation of known trends in our company and the industry as a whole and information available from other outside sources. Our estimates affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and related disclosures of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenue and expense during the reporting period. Actual results may differ significantly from those initial estimates.
We believe the most critical accounting policies and estimates involving significant judgment primarily relate to contingencies, certain long-lived assets, considerations in the recoverability and impairment assessments for goodwill and defined benefit pension plans. We have discussed the development, selection and disclosure of our critical accounting estimates with the Audit Committee of our Board of Directors.
● Contingencies - We record accruals for environmental, legal and other contingencies and commitments when estimated future expenditures associated with such contingencies become probable, and the amounts can be reasonably estimated. However, new information may become available, or circumstances (such as applicable laws and regulations) may change, thereby resulting in an increase or decrease in the amount required to be accrued for such matters (and therefore a decrease or increase in reported net income in the period of such change).
Obligations for environmental remediation costs are difficult to assess and it is possible that actual costs for environmental remediation will exceed accrued amounts or that costs will be incurred in the future for sites in which we cannot currently estimate our liability. If these events were to occur in 2022, our corporate expenses would be higher than we currently estimate. In addition, we adjust our environmental remediation and related costs accruals (and potential range of our liabilities) as further information becomes available to us or as circumstances change which involves our judgment regarding current facts and circumstances for each site and is subject to various assumptions and estimates. Such further information or changed circumstances could result in an increase in our accrued environmental costs. See Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
● Long-lived assets - The net book value of our property and equipment totaled $29.2 million at December 31, 2021, all of which relates to CompX. We assess property and equipment for impairment only when circumstances indicate an impairment may exist. Our determination is based upon, among other things, our estimates of the amount of future net cash flows to be generated by the long-lived asset (Level 3 inputs) and our estimates of the current fair value of the asset.
Significant judgment is required in estimating such cash flows. Adverse changes in such estimates of future net cash flows or estimates of fair value could result in an inability to recover the carrying value of the long-lived asset, thereby possibly requiring an impairment charge to be recognized in the future. We do not assess our property and equipment for impairment unless certain impairment indicators are present. We did not evaluate any long-lived assets for impairment during 2021 because no such impairment indicators were present.
● Goodwill - Our net goodwill totaled $27.2 million at December 31, 2021, all related to CompX’s Security Products reporting unit. Goodwill is required to be tested annually or at other times whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its
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carrying value. CompX performs its annual goodwill impairment test in the third quarter of each year or at other times whenever an event occurs or circumstances change that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying value. Such events or circumstances may include: adverse industry or economic trends, lower projections of profitability, or a sustained decline in CompX’s market capitalization. These events or circumstances, among other items, may be indications of potential impairment issues which are triggering events requiring the testing of an asset’s carrying value for recoverability. An entity may first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to complete a quantitative impairment test using a more-likely-than-not criteria. If an entity believes it is more-likely-than-not the fair value of a reporting unit is greater than its carrying value, including goodwill, the quantitative impairment test can be bypassed. Alternatively, an entity has an unconditional option to bypass the qualitative assessment and proceed directly to performing the quantitative impairment test.
When performing a qualitative assessment considerable management judgment is necessary to evaluate the qualitative impact of events and circumstances on the fair value of a reporting unit. Events and circumstances considered in our impairment evaluations, such as CompX’s historical profits and stability of the markets served, are consistent with factors utilized with our internal projections and operating plan. However, future events and circumstances could result in materially different findings which could result in the recognition of a material goodwill impairment.
Evaluations of possible impairment utilizing the quantitative impairment test require CompX to estimate, among other factors: forecasts of future operating results, revenue growth, operating margin, tax rates, capital expenditures, depreciation, working capital, weighted average cost of capital, long-term growth rates, risk premiums, terminal values, and fair values of reporting units and assets. The goodwill impairment test is subject to uncertainties arising from such events as changes in competitive conditions, the current general economic environment, material changes in growth rate assumptions that could positively or negatively impact anticipated future operating conditions and cash flows, changes in the discount rate, and the impact of strategic decisions. If any of these factors were to materially change such change may require revaluation of the reported goodwill. Changes in estimates or the application of alternative assumptions could produce significantly different results.
In 2021, CompX used the qualitative assessment for its annual impairment test and determined it was not necessary to perform the quantitative goodwill impairment test, as it concluded it is more-likely-than-not the fair value of the Security Products reporting unit exceeded its carrying amount. See Notes 1 and 7 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
● Defined benefit pension plans - We maintain a defined benefit pension plan in the U.S. and a plan in the United Kingdom (U.K.) See Note 11 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. We recognized consolidated defined benefit pension plan expense of $1.6 million in 2019, $1.0 million in 2020 and $.9 million in 2021. The funding requirements for these defined benefit pension plans are generally based upon applicable regulations (such as ERISA in the U.S.) and will generally differ from pension expense recognized under GAAP for financial reporting purposes. We made contributions to our plans of approximately $3.2 million in 2019, $1.8 million in 2020 and $1.2 million in 2021.
In accordance with applicable U.K. pension regulations, we entered into an agreement in March 2021 for the bulk annuity purchase, or “buy-in” with a specialist insurer of defined benefit pension plans. Following the buy-in, individual policies will replace the bulk annuity policy in a “buy-out” which is expected to be completed in 2022. The buy-out is expected to be completed with existing plan funds. At the completion of the buy-out we will remove the assets and liabilities of the U.K. pension plan from our Consolidated Financial Statements and a plan settlement gain or loss (which we are currently unable to estimate) will be included in net periodic pension cost.
Under defined benefit pension plan accounting, defined benefit pension plan expense and prepaid and accrued pension costs are each recognized based on certain actuarial assumptions, principally the assumed discount rate and the assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets. We recognize the full funded status of our defined benefit pension plans as either an asset (for overfunded plans) or a liability (for underfunded plans) in our Consolidated Balance Sheets.
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The discount rates we use for determining defined benefit pension expense and the related pension obligations are based on current interest rates earned on long-term bonds that receive one of the two highest ratings given by recognized rating agencies in the applicable country where the defined benefit pension benefits are being paid. In addition, we receive third-party advice about appropriate discount rates, and these advisors may in some cases use their own market indices. We adjust these discount rates as of each December 31 valuation date to reflect then-current interest rates on such long-term bonds. We use these discount rates to determine the actuarial present value of the pension obligations as of December 31 of that year. We also use these discount rates to determine the interest component of defined benefit pension expense for the following year.
At December 31, 2021, our projected benefit obligations for defined benefit plans comprised $40.3 million related to the U.S. plan and $10.1 million for the U.K. plan, which is associated with a former disposed business. We use different discount rate assumptions in determining our defined benefit pension plan obligations and expense for the plans we maintain in the United States and the U.K. as the interest rate environment differs from country to country.
We used the following discount rates for our defined benefit pension plans:
Discount rates used for:
Obligations at
Obligations at
Obligations at
December 31,
December 31,
December 31,
2019 and
2020 and
2021 and
expense in 2020
expense in 2021
expense in 2022
United States
3.1
%
2.2
%
2.6
%
United Kingdom
2.0
%
1.4
%
1.3
%
The assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets represents the estimated average rate of earnings expected to be earned on the funds invested or to be invested from the plans’ assets provided to fund the benefit payments inherent in the projected benefit obligations. Unlike the discount rate, which is adjusted each year based on changes in current long-term interest rates, the assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets will not necessarily change based upon the actual short-term performance of the plan assets in any given year. Defined benefit pension expense each year is based upon the assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets for each plan, the actual fair value of the plan assets as of the beginning of the year and an estimate of the amount of contributions to and distributions from the plan during the year. Differences between the expected return on plan assets for a given year and the actual return are deferred and amortized over future periods based on the average remaining life expectancy of the inactive participants.
At December 31, 2021, approximately 76% of the plan assets were related to our plan in the U.S., with the remainder related to the U.K. plan. We use different long-term rates of return on plan asset assumptions for our U.S. and U.K. defined benefit pension plan expense because the respective plan assets are invested in a different mix of investments and the long-term rates of return for different investments differ from country to country.
In determining the expected long-term rate of return on plan asset assumptions, we consider the long-term asset mix (e.g. equity vs. fixed income) for the assets for each of our plans and the expected long-term rates of return for such asset components. In addition, we receive third-party advice about appropriate long-term rates of return. See Note 11 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Our assumed long-term rates of return on plan assets for 2019, 2020 and 2021 were as follows:
2019
2020
2021
United States
5.5
%
4.5
%
4.0
%
United Kingdom
2.8
%
3.3
%
1.3
%
Our long-term rate of return on plan asset assumptions in 2022 used for purposes of determining our 2022 defined benefit pension plan expense is 4.0% for the U.S. plan and 1.3% for the U.K. plan. As noted above
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we are in the process of annuitizing our U.K. pension plan and, as a result, during 2021 and into 2022 all of the assets of the U.K. plan were invested primarily in insurance contracts.
In addition to the actuarial assumptions discussed above, because we maintain a defined benefit pension plan in the U.K., the amount of recognized defined benefit pension expense and the amount of net pension asset and net pension liability will vary based upon relative changes in currency exchange rates.
Based on the actuarial assumptions described above and our current expectation for what actual average currency exchange rates will be during 2022, we expect to recognize defined benefit pension expense of approximately $1.1 million in 2022. In comparison, we expect to be required to contribute approximately $1.2 million to such plans during 2022.
As noted above, defined benefit pension expense and the amounts recognized as accrued pension costs are based upon the actuarial assumptions discussed above. We believe that all of the actuarial assumptions used are reasonable and appropriate. However, if we had lowered the assumed discount rate by 25 basis points for each of our plans as of December 31, 2021, our aggregate projected benefit obligations would have increased by approximately $1.0 million at that date. Such a change would not materially impact our defined benefit pension expense for 2021. Similarly, if we lowered the assumed long-term rate of return on plan assets by 25 basis points for our plans, such a change would not materially impact our defined benefit pension expense for 2021.
LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES
Consolidated cash flows
Operating activities
Trends in cash flows from operating activities, excluding the impact of deferred taxes and relative changes in assets and liabilities, are generally similar to trends in our income (loss) from operations. Changes in working capital are primarily related to changes in receivables and inventories (as discussed below) and payables and accrued liabilities. Net cash provided by operating activities was $17.6 million in 2021 compared to $19.0 million in 2020. The $1.4 million net decrease in cash provided by operating activities includes the net effects of:
● higher net cash used for relative changes in receivables, inventories, prepaid expenses, payables and accrued liabilities in 2021 of $8.2 million;
● higher income from operations from CompX in 2021 of $8.7 million; and
● a $1.3 million decrease in interest received in 2021 due to lower average affiliate receivable balance and the relative timing of interest received.
Net cash provided by operating activities was $19.0 million in 2020 compared to $27.4 million in 2019. The $8.4 million net decrease in cash provided by operating activities includes the net effects of:
● first annual installment payment of $12.0 million in 2020 compared to the initial cash payment of $25.0 million in 2019 related to the litigation settlement discussed in Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements;
● higher net cash used for relative changes in receivables, inventories, prepaid expenses, payables and accrued liabilities in 2020 of $14.8 primarily due to the reclassification of $15.0 million from accrued insurance recovery receivable to noncurrent restricted cash in 2019;
● lower income from operations from CompX in 2020 of $5.9 million;
● lower cash received for insurance recoveries in 2020 of $5.3 million;
● lower cash paid for environmental remediation and related costs in 2020 of $2.0 million related to settlement of an environmental site in 2019; and
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● a $2.8 million decrease in interest received in 2020 due to lower average interest rates and to a lesser extent a lower average affiliate receivable balance, partially offset by the relative timing of interest received.
We do not have complete access to CompX’s cash flows in part because we do not own 100% of CompX. A detail of our consolidated cash flows from operating activities is presented in the table below. Intercompany dividends have been eliminated. The reference to NL Parent in the tables below is a reference to NL Industries, Inc., as the parent company of CompX and our other wholly-owned subsidiaries.
Years ended December 31,
2019
2020
2021
(In millions)
Net cash provided by operating activities:
CompX
$
18.5
$
15.5
$
10.5
NL Parent and wholly-owned subsidiaries
11.9
7.8
15.7
Eliminations
(3.0)
(4.3)
(8.6)
Total
$
27.4
$
19.0
$
17.6
Relative changes in working capital can have a significant effect on cash flows from operating activities. As shown below, our total average days sales outstanding increased from December 31, 2020 to December 31, 2021 primarily as a result of the timing of sales and collections in the last month of 2021 as compared to 2020. As shown below, our average number of days in inventory increased from December 31, 2020 to December 31, 2021 primarily due to increased raw material and production costs as well as increased purchases of certain components and raw materials that have longer lead times or for which we have experienced availability issues. For comparative purposes, we have provided 2019 numbers below.
2019
2020
2021
Days sales outstanding
36 days
33 days
42 days
Days in inventory
81 days
75 days
96 days
Investing activities
Capital expenditures, substantially all of which relate to CompX, have primarily emphasized improving manufacturing facilities and investing in manufacturing equipment, utilizing new technologies and increased automation of the manufacturing process, to provide for increased productivity and efficiency in order to meet expected customer demand and properly maintain facilities and technology infrastructure. Capital expenditures were $3.2 million in 2019, $1.7 million in 2020 and $4.1 million in 2021. As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, CompX limited 2020 expenditures to those required to meet its expected customer demand and those required to properly maintain its facilities and technology infrastructure. Our 2021 capital expenditures increased above pre-pandemic levels as CompX accelerated the timeline for certain projects designed to increase its capacity and improve its capabilities in response to strong customer demand.
Investing activities also include net collections by CompX from Valhi of $5.9 million ($34.9 million of gross borrowings and $40.8 million of gross repayments) in 2019, net borrowings of $1.4 million ($34.8 million of gross borrowings and $33.4 million of gross repayments) in 2020 and net collections of $10.8 million ($29.8 million of gross borrowings and $40.6 million of gross repayments) in 2021 under a promissory note receivable from an affiliate. See Note 16 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
During 2019, investing activities also included proceeds from a sale of excess property of $4.6 million in the third quarter and net proceeds from the sale of our insurance and risk management business of $2.9 million in the fourth quarter.
Financing activities
Cash dividends paid totaled $7.8 million ($.16 per share, or $.04 per share per quarter) in 2020, and $11.7 million ($.24 per share, or $.06 per share per quarter) in 2021. In March 2022 our board of directors declared a first quarter 2022 dividend of $.07 per share, to be paid on March 24, 2022 to NL stockholders of record as of March 14, 2022. The declaration and payment of future dividends, and the amount thereof, is discretionary and is dependent upon our financial condition, cash requirements, contractual obligations and restrictions and other factors deemed relevant by our board of
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directors. The amount and timing of past dividends is not necessarily indicative of the amount or timing of any future dividends which might be paid. There are currently no contractual restrictions on the amount of dividends which we may pay.
Cash flows from financing activities include CompX dividends paid to its stockholders other than us aggregating $.5 million in 2019, $.7 million in 2020 and $1.3 million in 2021.
In addition, during 2021, CompX acquired 75,000 shares of its Class A common stock in market transactions for an aggregate purchase price of $1.3 million.
Outstanding debt obligations
At December 31, 2021, NL had outstanding debt obligations of $.5 million under its secured revolving credit facility with Valhi, and CompX did not have any outstanding debt obligations. We are in compliance with all of the covenants contained in our revolving credit facility with Valhi at December 31, 2021. See Note 10 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Kronos’ Global Revolver and its Senior Secured Notes contain a number of covenants and restrictions which, among other things, restrict its ability to incur additional debt, incur liens, pay dividends or merge or consolidate with, or sell or transfer substantially all of its assets to, another entity, and contains other provisions and restrictive covenants customary in lending transactions of this type. Certain of Kronos’ credit agreements contain provisions which could result in the acceleration of indebtedness prior to their stated maturity for reasons other than defaults for failure to comply with typical financial or payment covenants. For example, the credit agreements allow the lender to accelerate the maturity of the indebtedness upon a change of control (as defined in the agreement) of the borrower. In addition, the credit agreements could result in the acceleration of all or a portion of the indebtedness following a sale of assets outside the ordinary course of business. Kronos is in compliance with all of its debt covenants at December 31, 2021. Kronos believes that it will be able to continue to comply with the financial covenants contained in its credit facility through their maturity.
Future cash requirements
Liquidity
Our primary source of liquidity on an ongoing basis is our cash flow from operating activities and credit facilities with affiliates and banks as further discussed below. We generally use these amounts to fund capital expenditures (substantially all of which relate to CompX), pay ongoing environmental remediation and litigation costs, and provide for the payment of dividends (if declared).
At December 31, 2021, we had aggregate cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash of $175.2 million, substantially all of which was held in the U.S. A detail (in millions) by entity is presented in the table below.
CompX
$
76.5
NL Parent and wholly-owned subsidiaries
98.7
Total
$
175.2
In addition, at December 31, 2021 we owned 1.2 million shares of Valhi common stock with an aggregate market value of $34.4 million. See Note 5 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. We also owned 35.2 million shares of Kronos common stock at December 31, 2021 with an aggregate market value of $528.6 million. See Note 6 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
We routinely compare our liquidity requirements and alternative uses of capital against the estimated future cash flows we expect to receive from our subsidiaries and affiliates. As a result of this process, we have in the past and may in the future seek to raise additional capital, incur debt, repurchase indebtedness in the market or otherwise, modify our dividend policies, consider the sale of our interests in our subsidiaries, affiliates, business, marketable securities or other assets, or take a combination of these and other steps, to increase liquidity, reduce indebtedness and fund future activities. Such activities have in the past and may in the future involve related companies.
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We periodically evaluate acquisitions of interests in or combinations with companies (including related companies) perceived by management to be undervalued in the marketplace. These companies may or may not be engaged in businesses related to our current businesses. We intend to consider such acquisition activities in the future and, in connection with this activity, may consider issuing additional equity securities and increasing indebtedness. From time to time, we also evaluate the restructuring of ownership interests among our respective subsidiaries and related companies.
Based upon our expectations of operating performance, and the anticipated demands on our cash resources we expect to have sufficient liquidity to meet our short-term obligations (defined as the twelve-month period ending December 31, 2022). If actual developments differ materially from our expectations, our liquidity could be adversely affected. In this regard, Valhi has agreed to loan us up to $50 million on a revolving basis. At December 31, 2021, we had $.5 million in outstanding borrowings under this facility, and we had $49.5 million available for future borrowing under the facility. See Note 10 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.
Capital expenditures
Capital expenditures for 2022 are estimated at approximately $6.7 million, substantially all of which relate to CompX. CompX’s 2022 capital investments are primarily to increase its capacity and its capability needs as well as to maintain and improve the cost-effectiveness of its facilities equipment, and technology infrastructure.
Dividends
Because our operations are conducted primarily through subsidiaries and affiliates, our long-term ability to meet parent company-level corporate obligations is largely dependent on the receipt of dividends or other distributions from our subsidiaries and affiliates. A detail of annual dividends we expect to receive from our subsidiaries and affiliates in 2022, based on the number of shares of common stock of these affiliates we own as of December 31, 2021 and their current regular quarterly dividend rate, is presented in the table below. In this regard, in February 2022 Kronos increased its regular quarterly dividend from $.18 to $.19 per share and in March 2022 CompX increased its regular quarterly dividend from $.20 to $.25 per share, both increases begin with the dividends payable in March 2022.
Shares held
Quarterly
Annual expected
December 31, 2021
dividend rate
dividend
(In millions)
(In millions)
Kronos
35.2
$
.19
$
26.8
CompX
10.8
.25
10.8
Valhi
1.2
.08
.4
Total expected annual dividends
$
38.0
Investments in our subsidiaries and affiliates and other acquisitions
We have in the past and may in the future, purchase the securities of our subsidiaries and affiliates or third-parties in market or privately-negotiated transactions. We base our purchase decisions on a variety of factors, including an analysis of the optimal use of our capital, taking into account the market value of the securities and the relative value of expected returns on alternative investments. In connection with these activities, we may consider issuing additional equity securities or increasing our indebtedness. We may also evaluate the restructuring of ownership interests of our businesses among our subsidiaries and related companies.
Commitments and contingencies
We are subject to certain commitments and contingencies, as more fully described in Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements or in Part I, Item 3 of this report. In addition to those legal proceedings described in Note 17 to our Consolidated Financial Statements, various legislation and administrative regulations have, from time to time, been proposed that seek to (i) impose various obligations on present and former manufacturers of lead pigment and lead-based paint (including us) with respect to asserted health concerns associated with the use of such products and (ii) effectively overturn court decisions in which we and other pigment manufacturers have been successful. Examples of such proposed legislation include bills which would permit civil liability for damages on the basis of market share, rather than requiring plaintiffs to prove that the defendant’s product caused the alleged damage and bills which would revive actions barred by the statute of limitations. While no legislation or regulations have been enacted to date that are expected to have a material
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adverse effect on our consolidated financial position, results of operations or liquidity, enactment of such legislation could have such an effect.
As more fully described in the Notes to our Consolidated Financial Statements, we are party to various debt, leases and other agreements which contractually and unconditionally commit us to pay certain amounts in the future. See Note 10 to our Consolidated Financial Statements. See Notes 1 and 14 to our Consolidated Financial Statements for a description of certain income tax contingencies. Additionally, CompX has purchase obligations of $30.7 million ($30.1 million payable in 2022 and $.6 million payable in 2023) which consists of open purchase orders and contractual obligations, primarily commitments to purchase raw materials and for capital projects in process at December 31, 2021. The timing and amount for purchase obligations is based on the contractual payment amount and the contractual payment date for those commitments.