UNITED STATES
 
 
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
 
 

 
 
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
 
 

 
 
FORM 10-Q
 
 

 
(Mark One)
x
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
For the Quarterly Period Ended  September 27, 2009
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: 1-4639

CTS CORPORATION
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 
Indiana
 
35-0225010
 
 
(State or other jurisdiction of incorporation or organization)
 
(IRS Employer Identification Number)
 

 
905 West Boulevard North, Elkhart, IN
 
46514
 
 
(Address of principal executive offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 574-523-3800

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  o

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

Large accelerated filer   o      Accelerated filer   x       Non-accelerated filer (Do not check if smaller reporting company)   o

Smaller reporting company o

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

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer’s classes of common stock, as of October 26, 2009: 33,892,602.

 


CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES

TABLE OF CONTENTS

     
Page
       
 
       
 
Item 1.
3
       
 
                              Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss)
3
 
          - For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008
 
       
 
                              Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheets
4
 
                              - As of September 27, 2009 and December 31, 2008
 
       
 
                              Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
5
 
                              - For the Nine Months Ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008
 
       
 
                              Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Earnings (Loss)
6
 
          - For the Three and Nine Months Ended September 27, 2009 and  September 28, 2008
 
       
 
                             Notes to Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements
7
       
 
Item 2.
20
       
 
Item 3.
29
       
 
Item 4.
29
       
 
       
 
Item 1.
29
       
 
Item 1A.
29
       
 
Item 6.
30
       
 
31




 
PART I  -  FINANCIAL INFORMATION
 
 
 

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008*
   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008*
 
                         
Net sales
  $ 126,565     $ 170,034     $ 365,094     $ 528,880  
Costs and expenses:
                               
Cost of goods sold
    100,380       136,684       297,202       421,553  
Selling, general and administrative expenses
    16,494       20,754       48,357       63,236  
Research and development expenses
    3,408       4,509       10,227       13,576  
Restructuring charge – Note I
          3,202       2,243       3,465  
Goodwill impairment
                33,153        
Operating earnings/(loss)
    6,283       4,885       (26,088 )     27,050  
Other (expense)/income:
                               
Interest expense
    (256 )     (1,591 )     (1,615 )     (4,976 )
Interest income
    17       316       118       1,174  
Other
    (390 )     (307 )     (736 )     98  
Total other expense
    (629 )     (1,582 )     (2,233 )     (3,704 )
                                 
Earnings/(loss) before income taxes
    5,654       3,303       (28,321 )     23,346  
Income tax expense/(benefit)
    1,173       (3,912 )     9,872       266  
Net earnings/(loss)
  $ 4,481     $ 7,215     $ (38,193 )   $ 23,080  
Net earnings/(loss) per share - Note K
                               
Basic
  $ 0.13     $ 0.21     $ (1.13 )   $ 0.68  
                                 
Diluted
  $ 0.13     $ 0.21     $ (1.13 )   $ 0.65  
                                 
Cash dividends declared per share
  $ 0.03     $ 0.03     $ 0.09     $ 0.09  
Average common shares outstanding:
                               
Basic
    33,873       33,708       33,799       33,735  
Diluted
    34,513       38,199       33,799       38,206  



*The Statement of Earnings for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2008 was adjusted from the previously filed 10-Q to comply with the provisions of Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options”.

See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.



(In thousands of dollars)


   
September 27,
2009
   
December 31, 2008*
 
ASSETS
           
Current Assets
           
  Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
40,329
   
$
44,628
 
  Accounts receivable, less allowances (2009 – $2,250; 2008- $2,165)
   
75,942
     
94,175
 
  Inventories, net - Note D
   
60,452
     
70,867
 
  Other current assets
   
14,969
     
16,172
 
     Total current assets
   
191,692
     
225,842
 
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated depreciation (2009 - $267,614; 2008 - $257,850)
   
83,395
     
90,756
 
Other Assets
               
  Prepaid pension asset
   
24,609
     
18,756
 
  Goodwill – Note J
   
     
33,150
 
  Other intangible assets – Note N
   
34,577
     
36,927
 
  Deferred income taxes
   
71,718
     
82,101
 
  Other
   
689
     
910
 
     Total other assets
   
131,593
     
171,844
 
Total Assets
 
$
406,680
   
$
488,442
 
 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
           
Current Liabilities
           
  Accounts payable
 
 $
62,211
   
71,285
 
  Accrued liabilities
   
36,254
     
41,956
 
     Total current liabilities
   
98,465
     
113,241
 
Long-term debt  - Note E
   
49,500
     
79,988
 
Other long-term obligations
   
16,820
     
17,740
 
Shareholders’ Equity
               
  Preferred stock - authorized 25,000,000 shares without par value; none issued
   
     
 
  Common stock - authorized 75,000,000 shares without par value; 54,195,624 shares issued at September 27, 2009 and
    54,031,844 shares issued at December 31, 2008
   
282,231
     
280,266
 
  Additional contributed capital
   
36,665
     
37,148
 
  Retained earnings
   
314,456
     
355,694
 
  Accumulated other comprehensive loss
   
(94,448
)
   
(98,626
)
     
538,904
     
574,482
 
Cost of common stock held in treasury (2009 and 2008 – 20,320,759 shares)
   
(297,009
)
   
(297,009
)
   Total shareholders’ equity
   
241,895
     
277,473
 
Total Liabilities and Shareholders’ Equity
 
$
406,680
   
$
488,442
 


* The Balance Sheet at December 31, 2008 was adjusted from the previously filed 10-K to comply with the provisions of ASC 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options”.
 
See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.




(In thousands of dollars)

   
Nine Months Ended
 
   
September 27,
2009
   
September 28,
2008*
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
           
Net (loss)/earnings
 
$
(38,193
)
 
$
23,080
 
Adjustments to reconcile net (loss)/earnings to net cash provided by operating activities:
               
       Depreciation and amortization
   
14,919
     
18,457
 
Prepaid pension asset – Note F
   
 (5,853
)
   
(7,599
)
       Equity-based compensation – Note B
   
2,711
 
   
2,614
 
       Restructuring and impairment charges – Note I
   
2,243
     
3,465
 
       Goodwill impairment – Note J
   
33,153
     
 
       Gain on sales of assets
   
(1,153
)
   
(30
)
       Amortization of retirement benefit adjustments – Note F
   
3,942
     
1,683
 
       Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions
               
      Accounts receivable
   
20,045
     
1,041
 
      Inventories
   
11,031
     
(5,529
)
      Other current assets
   
1,600
     
1,054
 
      Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
   
(18,936
)
   
(13,804
)
             Other
   
8,542
     
(4,312
)
Total adjustments
   
72,244
     
(2,960
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
   
34,051
     
20,120
 
                 
Cash flows from investing activities:
               
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash received – Note C
   
     
(20,828
)
Capital expenditures
   
(4,681
)
   
(13,756
)
Proceeds from sales of assets
   
1,309
     
34
 
Net cash used in investing activities
   
(3,372
)
   
(34,550
)
                 
Cash flows from financing activities:
               
Payment of 2.125% Debentures – Note E
   
(32,500
)
   
 
Payments of long-term debt – Note E
   
(2,141,050
)
   
(892,150
)
Proceeds from borrowings of long-term debt – Note E
   
2,142,550
     
920,250
 
Payments of short-term notes payable
   
(7,755
)
   
(7,426
)
Proceeds from borrowings of short-term notes payable
   
7,755
     
6,426
 
Dividends paid
   
(3,040
)
   
(3,051
)
Purchase of treasury stock – Note L
   
     
(7,037
)
Other
   
(929
)
   
56
 
Net cash (used in)/provided by financing activities
   
(34,969
)
   
17,068
 
                 
Effect of exchange rate on cash and cash equivalents
   
(9
)
   
(1,795
)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
   
(4,299
)
   
843
 
                 
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year
   
44,628
     
52,868
 
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
40,329
   
$
53,711
 
                 
Supplemental cash flow information
               
Cash paid during the period for:
               
Interest
 
$
728
   
$
2,206
 
Income taxes—net
 
$
5,915
   
$
3,035
 
                 

*The Statement of Cash Flows for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2008 was adjusted from the previously filed 10-Q to comply with the provisions of ASC 470-20, “Convertible Debt and Other Options”.
 
See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.


 

 
 
CTS CORPORATION AND SUBSIDIARIES
(In thousands of dollars)


   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008*
   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008*
 
Net earnings/(loss)
 
$
4,481
   
$
7,215
   
$
(38,193
)
 
$
23,080
 
Other comprehensive earnings/(loss):
                               
Cumulative translation adjustment
   
(352
)
   
(2,459
)
   
1,925
     
(2,562
)
Deferred loss on foreign currency forward contracts
   
     
(31
)
   
     
(31
)
Amortization of retirement benefit adjustments (net of tax)
   
779
     
435
     
2,253
     
1,021
 
Comprehensive earnings/(loss)
 
$
4,908
   
$
5,160
   
$
(34,015
)
 
$
21,508
 

*The Statement of Comprehensive Earnings for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2008 was adjusted from the previously filed 10-Q to comply with the provisions of ASC 470-20, “Convertible Debt and Other Options”.
 
See notes to unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements.



September 27, 2009

 
NOTE A – Basis of Presentation
 
The accompanying condensed consolidated financial statements have been prepared by CTS Corporation (“CTS” or “the Company”), without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. The unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements should be read in conjunction with the financial statements, notes thereto, and other information included in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2008.
 
The accompanying unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements reflect, in the opinion of management, all adjustments (consisting of normal recurring items) necessary for a fair statement, in all material respects, of the financial position and results of operations for the periods presented.  The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reported period.  Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.  The results of operations for the interim periods are not necessarily indicative of the results for the entire year.
 
NOTE B – Equity-Based Compensation

At September 27, 2009, CTS had six equity-based compensation plans:  the 1988 Restricted Stock and Cash Bonus Plan (“1988 Plan”), the 1996 Stock Option Plan (“1996 Plan”), the 2001 Stock Option Plan (“2001 Plan”), the Nonemployee Directors’ Stock Retirement Plan (“Directors’ Plan”), the 2004 Omnibus Long-Term Incentive Plan (“2004 Plan”), and the 2009 Omnibus Equity and Performance Incentive Plan (“2009 Plan”).  CTS believes that equity based awards align the interest of employees with those of its shareholders.

The 2009 Plan, and previously the 1996 Plan, 2001 Plan and 2004 Plan, provides for grants of incentive stock options or nonqualified stock options to officers, key employees, and nonemployee members of CTS’ board of directors.  In addition, the 2009 Plan allows for grants of stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, restricted stock units, performance shares, performance units, and other stock awards.

The following table summarizes the compensation expense included in the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings (Loss) for the three and nine months ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008 relating to these plans:

   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
  ($ in thousands)
 
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
 
Stock options
  $ 2     $ 18     $ 34     $ 109  
Restricted stock units
    907       867       2,677       2,473  
Restricted stock
                      32  
Total
  $ 909     $ 885     $ 2,711     $ 2,614  


The following table summarizes the status of these plans as of September 27, 2009:

   
2009 Plan
   
2004 Plan
   
2001 Plan
   
1996 Plan
 
Awards originally available
   
3,400,000
     
6,500,000
     
2,000,000
     
1,200,000
 
Stock options outstanding
   
     
276,850
     
730,888
     
176,850
 
Restricted stock units outstanding
   
381,950
     
469,087
     
     
 
Awards exercisable
   
     
256,100
     
730,888
     
176,850
 
Awards available for grant
   
3,018,050
     
472,000
     
     
 




 
Stock Options
 
Stock options are exercisable in cumulative annual installments over a maximum 10-year period, commencing at least one year from the date of grant.   Stock options are generally granted with an exercise price equal to the market price of the Company’s stock on the date of grant.  The stock options generally vest over four years and have a 10-year contractual life.  The awards generally contain provisions to either accelerate vesting or allow vesting to continue on schedule upon retirement if certain service and age requirements are met.   The awards also provide for accelerated vesting if there is a change in control event.

The Company estimates the fair value of the stock option on the grant date using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model and assumptions for expected price volatility, option term, risk-free interest rate, and dividend yield.  Expected price volatilities are based on historical volatilities of the Company’s stock.  The expected option term is derived from historical data on exercise behavior.  The dividend yield is based on historical dividend payments.  The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option is based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant.

A summary of the status of stock options as of September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008, and changes during the nine-month periods then ended, is presented below:

   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
 
   
Options
   
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
   
Options
   
Weighted-Average
Exercise Price
 
Outstanding at beginning of year
   
1,294,263
   
$
14.53
     
1,426,638
   
$
16.06 
 
Exercised
   
   
$
     
(7,100
)
 
$
8.40
 
Expired
   
(109,675
)
 
$
21.45
     
(113,375
)
 
$
32.91
 
Forfeited
   
   
$
     
   
$
 
Outstanding at end of period
   
1,184,588
   
$
13.89
     
1,306,163
   
$
14.63
 
                                 
Exercisable at end of period
   
1,163,838
   
$
13.89
     
1,231,638
   
$
14.76
 

The total intrinsic value of share options exercised during the nine-month period ended September 28, 2008 was $16,000.  There were no share options exercised during the nine-month period ended September 27, 2009.

The weighted-average remaining contractual life of options outstanding and options exercisable at September 27, 2009 is 3.4 years. The aggregate intrinsic value of options outstanding and options exercisable at September 27, 2009 is approximately $540,000.
 
A summary of the nonvested stock options as of September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008, and changes during the nine-month periods then ended, is presented below:

   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
 
   
Options
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
   
Options
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Nonvested at beginning of year
   
74,525
   
$
6.36
     
158,587
   
$
6.41
 
Vested
   
(53,775
)
 
$
6.41
     
(84,062
)
 
$
6.46
 
Forfeited
   
   
$
     
   
$
 
Nonvested at end of period
   
20,750
(1)
 
$
6.24
     
74,525
(1)
 
$
6.36
 

_____________________
(1) Based on historical experience CTS currently expects approximately all of these options to vest.



The total fair value of shares vested during the nine months ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008 was approximately $345,000 and $543,000, respectively.  As of September 27, 2009, there was approximately $5,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested stock options.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of less than one year.  CTS recognizes expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards.

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding at September 27, 2009:

     
Options Outstanding
 
Options Exercisable
             
Weighted Average
               
Range of
 
Number
 
Remaining
 
Weighted Average
 
Number
 
Weighted Average
Exercise
 
Outstanding
 
Contractual
 
Exercise
 
Exercisable
 
Exercise
Prices
 
at 9/27/09
 
Life (Years)
 
Price
 
At 9/27/09
 
Price
$
7.70 – 11.11
   
727,163
     
3.88
   
$
9.37
     
727,163
   
$
9.37
 
 
13.68 – 16.24
   
227,800
     
4.00
     
14.16
     
207,050
     
14.12
 
 
23.00 – 25.10
   
188,625
     
1.56
     
23.22
     
188,625
     
23.22
 
 
42.69 – 79.25
   
41,000
     
0.66
     
49.78
     
41,000
     
49.78
 

Service-Based Restricted Stock Units
Service-based restricted stock units (“RSUs”) entitle the holder to receive one share of common stock for each unit when the unit vests.  RSUs are issued to officers and key employees as compensation.  Generally, the RSUs vest over a three or five-year period.  A summary of the status of RSUs as of September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008, and changes during the nine-month periods then ended is presented below:

   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
 
   
RSUs
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
   
RSUs
   
Weighted-average
Grant-Date
Fair Value
 
Outstanding at beginning of year
    700,358     $ 10.76       595,148     $ 12.14  
Granted
    390,850     $ 6.09       240,950     $ 10.06  
Converted
    (217,991 )   $ 10.70       (143,720 )   $ 11.86  
Forfeited
    (22,180 )   $ 11.32       (22,410 )   $ 12.20  
Outstanding at end of period
    851,037     $ 8.61       669,968     $ 11.45  
                                 
Weighted-average remaining contractual life
 
4.7 years
           
4.4 years
         

CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $663,000 and $1,971,000 related to service-based restricted stock units during the three and nine month periods ended September 27, 2009, respectively.  CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $659,000 and $1,903,000 related to service-based restricted stock units during the three and nine month periods ended September 28, 2008, respectively.  As of September 27, 2009, there was $3.2 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to nonvested RSUs.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.4 years.  CTS recognizes expense on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period for each separately vesting portion of the award as if the award was, in substance, multiple awards.

Performance-Based Restricted Stock Units
On February 6, 2007, CTS granted performance-based restricted stock unit awards to certain executives.  Executives received a total of 17,100 units based on achievement of year-over-year sales growth and free cash flow performance goals for fiscal year 2007.  These units will cliff vest and convert one-for-one to CTS common stock on December 31, 2010.

On February 5, 2008, CTS granted performance-based restricted stock unit awards to certain executives.  Vesting may occur, if at all, at a rate of up to 200% of the target amount of 42,200 units in 2010 subject to certification of the 2009 fiscal year results by CTS’ independent auditors.  Vesting is dependent upon CTS’ achievement of sales growth targets.

CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $34,000 and $85,000 related to performance-based restricted stock units during the three and nine month periods ended September 27, 2009, respectively.  CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $82,000 and $207,000 related to performance-based restricted stock units during the three and nine month periods ended September 28, 2008, respectively.  As of September 27, 2009 there was approximately $64,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to performance-based RSUs.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.0 year.


Market-Based Restricted Stock Units
On July 2, 2007, CTS granted a market-based restricted stock unit award to an executive officer.  An aggregate of 25,000 units may be earned in performance years ending in the following three consecutive years on the anniversary of the award date.  Vesting may occur, if at all, at a rate of up to 150% of the target award on the end date of each performance period and is tied exclusively to CTS total stockholder return relative to an enumerated peer group of companies’ total stockholder return rates.  The vesting rate will be determined using a matrix based on a percentile ranking of CTS total stockholder return with peer group total shareholder return.

On February 5, 2008, CTS granted market-based restricted stock unit awards to certain executives.  Vesting may occur, if at all, at a rate of up to 200% of the target amount of 63,300 units in 2010. Vesting is dependent upon CTS’ total stockholder return relative to an enumerated peer group of companies’ stockholder return rates.

On February 4, 2009, CTS granted market-based restricted stock unit awards to certain executives and key employees.  Vesting may occur, if at all, at a rate of up to 200% of the target amount of 128,000 units in 2011.  Vesting is dependent upon CTS total stockholder return relative to an enumerated peer group of companies’ stockholder return rates.

CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $210,000 and $621,000 related to market-based restricted stock units during the three and nine month periods ended September 27, 2009, respectively.  CTS recorded compensation expense of approximately $126,000 and $363,000 related to market-based restricted stock units during the three and nine month periods ended September 28, 2008, respectively. As of September 27, 2009 there was approximately $700,000 of unrecognized compensation cost related to market-based RSUs.  That cost is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of 1.0 year.

Stock Retirement Plan
The Directors’ Plan provides for a portion of the total compensation payable to nonemployee directors to be deferred and paid in CTS stock.  The Directors’ Plan was frozen effective December 1, 2004.  All future grants will be from the 2009 Plan.
 
NOTE C—Acquisitions
 
In 2008, CTS acquired, with cash, 100% of the outstanding capital stock of the following two entities for $21.1 million, net of $1.3 million cash received:
 
·  
Tusonix, Inc. (“Tusonix”), based in Tucson, Arizona, a leader in the design and manufacture of ceramic electromagnetic interference and radio frequency interference (“EMI/RFI”) filters; and
·  
Orion Manufacturing, Inc. (“Orion”), based in San Jose, California, a contract electronics manufacturer.

The acquisition of Tusonix expands CTS’ technology and customer base within the Components and Sensors segment.  The acquisition of Orion enables CTS’ EMS segment to achieve significant synergies by combining the Orion operation with the CTS operation in Santa Clara, California.  It also expands CTS’ customer base in certain target markets.

Under the terms of the Orion agreement, CTS may pay a contingent earn out of up to $1.75 million in cash, based on the achievement of certain financial targets in 2008 and 2009.  Contingencies earned under the terms of this agreement will be recorded as an adjustment to the purchase price.  CTS accrued $0.75 million at December 31, 2008. This $0.75 million was paid out during the first quarter of 2009.

These acquisitions were accounted for using the purchase method of accounting whereby the total purchase price was allocated to tangible and intangible assets based on the fair market values on the date of acquisition. The pro forma effects of the results of these acquisitions are immaterial to CTS’ results of operations.

CTS determined the purchase price allocations on the acquisitions based on estimates of the fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed.  These estimates were arrived at using recognized valuation techniques.  The purchase price allocations for both acquisitions have been finalized as of March 29, 2009.

Goodwill recognized in those transactions amounted to $8.5 million and is not deductible for tax purposes.  Of this goodwill, $6.6 million was assigned to the Electronic Manufacturing Services (“EMS”) segment and $1.9 million was assigned to the Components and Sensors segment.  In addition, CTS also recognized $2.5 million and $1.3 million of customer list intangibles for Tusonix and Orion, respectively.  These intangibles will be amortized over a period of 15 years and 10 years for Tusonix and Orion, respectively.  During the first quarter of 2009, the entire goodwill balance was written off to impairment.  Refer to Note J, “Fair Value Measurements”, for further discussion.



 
NOTE D – Inventories, net
 
Inventories consist of the following:
 
($ in thousands)
 
September 27,
2009
   
December 31,
2008
 
Finished goods
 
$
8,395
   
$
7,813
 
Work-in-process
   
17,151
     
16,246
 
Raw materials
   
34,906
     
46,808
 
Total inventories, net
 
$
60,452
   
$
70,867
 
 
NOTE E – Debt

Long-term debt was comprised of the following:

($ in thousands)
 
September 27,
2009
   
December 31,
2008
 
Revolving credit agreement, weighted-average interest rate of 1.2%, and 4.2% due in 2011
  $ 49,500     $ 48,000  
Convertible, senior subordinated debentures at an effective interest rate of 7.0% and a coupon rate of 2.1%, due in 2024,
   net of discount of $512
          31,988  
Total long-term debt
  $ 49,500     $ 79,988  

On June 27, 2006, CTS entered into a $100 million, unsecured revolving credit agreement.  Under the terms of the revolving credit agreement, CTS can expand the credit facility to $150 million, subject to participating banks’ approval.  There was $49.5 million and $48.0 million outstanding under the revolving credit agreement at September 27, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.  At September 27, 2009, CTS had $50.5 million available under this agreement. Interest rates on the revolving credit agreement fluctuate based upon LIBOR and the Company’s quarterly total leverage ratio.  CTS pays a commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the revolving credit agreement.  The commitment fee varies based on the quarterly leverage ratio and was 0.20 percent per annum at September 27, 2009.  The revolving credit agreement requires, among other things, that CTS comply with a maximum total leverage ratio and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio.  Failure of CTS to comply with these covenants could reduce the borrowing availability under the revolving credit agreement.  CTS was in compliance with all debt covenants at September 27, 2009.  The revolving credit agreement requires CTS to deliver quarterly financial statements, annual financial statements, auditors certifications and compliance certificates within a specified number of days after the end of a quarter and year-end. Additionally, the revolving agreement contains restrictions limiting CTS' ability to: dispose of assets; incur certain additional debt; repay other debt or amend subordinated debt instruments; create liens on assets; make investments, loans or advances; make acquisitions or engage in mergers or consolidations; engage in certain transactions with CTS' subsidiaries and affiliates; and the amounts allowed for stock repurchases and dividend payments. The revolving credit agreement expires in June 2011.

In May 2009, CTS settled the remaining $32.5 million in aggregate principal amount of senior subordinated debentures (“2.125% Debentures”). These unsecured debentures bore interest at an annual rate of 2.125%, payable semiannually on May 1 and November 1 of each year through the maturity date of May 1, 2024. The 2.125% Debentures were convertible, under certain circumstances, into CTS common stock at a conversion price of $15.00 per share (which is equivalent to an initial conversion rate of approximately 66.6667 shares per $1,000 principal amount of the notes). Upon conversion of the 2.125% Debentures, in lieu of delivering common stock, the Company could, at its discretion, deliver cash or a combination of cash and common stock.

In the fourth quarter 2008, CTS purchased $27.5 million of its 2.125% Debentures through open market discounted transactions.

In May 2008, the FASB issued ASC 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options”, that required issuers of such instruments to separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity’s non-convertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. This accounting change must be applied retrospectively to all past periods presented even if the instrument has matured, has been converted, or has otherwise been extinguished as of the effective date of January 1, 2009. CTS adopted these provisions in relation to its 2.125% subordinated debentures effective January 1, 2009.



The cumulative effect as of January 1, 2008 of the change in accounting principle was a decrease to long-term debt of approximately $0.5 million for the discount on the subordinated notes, an increase to additional contributed capital of approximately $7.0 million, a decrease to retained earnings of approximately $6.7 million and an increase to deferred tax liability of approximately $0.2 million. Interest expense for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2008 was adjusted to reflect amortization of the convertible debt discount. The following table summarizes the effects of adoption on CTS’ Statement of Earnings for the three and nine months ended September 28, 2008:

   
Three months ended
September 28, 2008
         
Nine months ended
September 28, 2008
       
($ in thousands)
 
As originally reported
   
As adjusted
   
Effect of change in accounting principle
   
As originally reported
   
As adjusted
   
Effect of change in accounting principle
 
Interest expense
 
$
931
   
$
1,591
   
$
660
   
$
3,048
   
$
4,976
   
$
1,928
 
Tax (benefit)/expense
 
$
(3,648
 
$
(3,912
 
$
(264
)
 
$
1,040
   
$
266
   
$
(774
)
Net Earnings
 
$
7,611
   
$
7,215
   
$
(396
)
 
$
24,234
   
$
23,080
   
$
(1,154
)
Earnings per share-basic
 
$
0.23
   
$
0.21
   
$
(0.02
)
 
$
0.72
   
$
0.68
   
$
(0.04
)
Earnings per share-fully diluted
 
$
0.21
   
$
0.21
   
$
   
$
0.65
   
$
0.65
   
$
 


The principal amount of the liability component at December 31, 2008 were $32.5 million and the unamortized discounts were approximately $0.5 million.  The amounts related to the equity component, net of equity issue costs and deferred tax, at September 27, 2009 and December 31, 2008 were approximately $7.0 million.

The effective interest rate on CTS’ 2.125% subordinated debentures is 7%. No interest expense was recognized for the three-month period ended September 27, 2009 as all debentures had been redeemed by the end of the second quarter 2009. The amount of interest recognized for the three-month period ended September 28, 2008 was approximately $1.0 million. The $1.0 million of interest expense recognized in the third quarter of 2008 comprised of approximately $0.7 million of interest expense due to the amortization of the discount on the debt and $0.3 million of interest expense due to the contractual interest coupon.

The amount of interest recognized for the nine-month periods ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008 was approximately $0.7 million and $3.0 million, respectively. The $0.7 million of interest expense recognized in the first nine months of 2009 comprised of approximately $0.5 million of interest expense due to the amortization of the discount on the debt and $0.2 million of interest expense due to the contractual interest coupon. The $3.0 million of interest expense recognized in the first nine months of 2008 comprised of approximately $2.0 million of interest expense due to the amortization of the discount on the debt and $1.0 million of interest expense due to the contractual interest coupon.

NOTE F – Retirement Plans
 
Net pension income and postretirement expense for the three and nine month periods ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008 includes the following components:
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
($ in thousands)
 
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
 
PENSION PLANS
                       
Service cost
  $ 788     $ 887     $ 2,346     $ 2,661  
Interest cost
    3,396       3,230       10,268       9,825  
Expected return on plan assets (1)  
    (6,108 )     (6,592 )     (18,305 )     (19,785 )
Amortization of prior service cost
    126       135       378       404  
Amortization of loss
    1,198       420       3,640       1,279  
Net pension income
  $ (600 )   $ (1,920 )   $ (1,673 )   $ (5,616 )
______________________________________
(1)   Expected return on plan assets is net of expected investment expenses and certain administrative expenses.




   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
($ in thousands)
 
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
   
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
 
OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFIT PLAN
                       
Service cost
  $ 3     $ 5     $ 8     $ 15  
Interest cost
    78       92       235       276  
Amortization of gain
    (25 )           (76 )      
Net postretirement expense
  $ 56     $ 97     $ 167     $ 291  
 
NOTE G – Segments
 
CTS reportable segments are grouped by entities that exhibit similar economic characteristics and the segments' reporting results are regularly reviewed by CTS’ chief operating decision maker to make decisions about resources to be allocated to these segments and to evaluate the segments' performance.
 
CTS has two reportable segments: 1) EMS and 2) Components and Sensors. EMS includes the higher level assembly of electronic and mechanical components into a finished subassembly or assembly performed under a contract manufacturing agreement with an original equipment manufacturer (“OEM”) or other contract manufacturer.  Additionally, for some customers, CTS provides full turnkey manufacturing and completion including design, bill-of-material management, logistics, and repair.
 
Components and sensors are products which perform specific electronic functions for a given product family and are intended for use in customer assemblies.  Components and sensors consist principally of automotive sensors and actuators used in commercial or consumer vehicles; electronic components used in communications infrastructure and computer markets; terminators used in computer and other high speed applications, switches, resistor networks, and potentiometers used to serve multiple markets.
 
The accounting policies of the reportable segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies in the Company’s annual report on Form 10-K.  Management evaluates performance based upon segment operating earnings before restructuring and restructuring-related charges, goodwill impairment, interest expense, other non-operating income, and income tax expense.

Summarized financial information concerning CTS’ reportable segments is shown in the following table:

($ in thousands)
 
EMS
   
Components and Sensors
   
Total
 
Third Quarter of 2009
                 
Net sales to external customers
 
$
70,737
   
$
55,828
   
$
126,565
 
Segment operating earnings
 
 $
2,214
   
 $
4,069
   
 $
6,283
 
Total assets
 
 $
122,937
   
 $
283,743
   
 $
406,680
 
                         
Third Quarter of 2008
                       
Net sales to external customers
 
$
97,510
   
$
72,524
   
$
170,034
 
Segment operating earnings
 
 $
2,657
   
 $
5,709
   
$
8,366
 
Total assets
 
 $
195,143
   
 $
386,132
   
 $
581,275
 
                         
First Nine Months of 2009
                       
Net sales to external customers
 
$
217,366
   
$
147,728
   
$
365,094
 
Segment operating earnings
 
 $
6,559
   
 $
2,749
   
 $
9,308
 
Total assets
 
 $
122,937
   
 $
283,743
   
 $
406,680
 
                         
First Nine Months of 2008
                       
Net sales to external customers
 
$
294,474
   
$
234,406
   
$
528,880
 
Segment operating earnings
 
 $
8,371
   
 $
22,696
   
 $
31,067
 
Total assets
 
 $
195,143
   
 $
386,132
   
 $
581,275
 
 

 


 
Reconciling information between reportable segments’ operating earnings and CTS’ consolidated pre-tax income is shown in the following table:
 
   
Three Months Ended
   
Nine Months Ended
 
($ in thousands)
 
September 27 2009
   
September 28, 2008
   
September 27 2009
   
September 28, 2008
 
Total segment operating earnings
  $ 6,283     $ 8,366     $ 9,308     $ 31,067  
Restructuring and related charges
          (3,481 )     (2,243 )     (4,017 )
Goodwill impairment
                (33,153 )      
Interest expense
    (256 )     (1,591 )     (1,615 )     (4,976 )
Interest income
    17       316       118       1,174  
Other (expense)/income
    (390 )     (307 )     (736 )     98  
Earnings/(loss) before income taxes
  $ 5,654     $ 3,303     $ (28,321 )   $ 23,346  
 
NOTE H – Contingencies
 
Certain processes in the manufacturing of CTS’ current and past products create hazardous waste by-products as currently defined by federal and state laws and regulations.  CTS has been notified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state environmental agencies and, in some cases, generator groups, that it is or may be a potentially responsible party regarding hazardous waste remediation at several non-CTS sites.  In addition to these non-CTS sites, CTS has an ongoing practice of providing reserves for probable remediation activities at certain of its manufacturing locations and for claims and proceedings against CTS with respect to other environmental matters.  In the opinion of management, based upon presently available information relating to all such matters, either adequate provision for probable costs has been made, or the ultimate costs resulting will not materially affect the consolidated financial position, results of operations, or cash flows of CTS.
 
Certain claims are pending against CTS with respect to matters arising out of the ordinary conduct of its business.  For all claims, in the opinion of management, based upon presently available information, either adequate provision for anticipated costs has been made or the ultimate anticipated costs resulting will not materially affect CTS’ consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
 
NOTE I – Restructuring
 
In November 2007, CTS announced plans to realign certain manufacturing operations and eliminate approximately 103 net positions during the fourth quarter of 2007.  The realignment is intended to create synergies by further enhancing the Company’s shared services model to include manufacturing support functions at its locations that serve more than one business.  As of December 31, 2007, the realignment plans were substantially complete.
 
The following table displays the planned restructuring and restructuring-related charges associated with the realignment, as well as a summary of the actual costs incurred through December 31, 2008:
 
($ in millions)                                                              November 2007 Plan
 
Planned
Costs
   
Actual incurred through
December 31, 2008
 
   
 
   
 
 
Workforce reduction
  $ 1.7     $ 1.5  
Asset impairments
    0.9       1.2  
Restructuring charge
    2.6       2.7  
                 
Equipment relocation
    0.2       0.1  
Other costs
    0.2       0.4  
Restructuring-related costs
    0.4       0.5  
                 
Total restructuring and restructuring-related costs
  $ 3.0     $ 3.2  

Of the restructuring and restructuring-related costs incurred, $0.9 million relates to the Components and Sensors segment and $2.3 million relates to the EMS segment.  Restructuring charges are reported on a separate line on the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings/(Loss) and the restructuring-related costs are included in cost of goods sold.  During the first quarter of 2008 CTS incurred $0.2 million of restructuring charges and $0.3 million of restructuring-related costs.  Restructuring actions were completed during the second quarter of 2008.  There was no restructuring reserve related to this plan at December 31, 2008.
 

 
 
 
In September 2008, CTS initiated certain restructuring actions to transfer and consolidate certain operations to further improve its cost structure.  These actions resulted in the elimination of approximately 400 positions and the write-off of certain leasehold improvements during the second half of 2008.  These actions were substantially complete in December 2008.

The following table displays the planned restructuring and restructuring-related charges associated with the realignment, as well as a summary of the actual costs incurred through December 31, 2008:

($ in millions)                                                    September 2008 Plan
 
Planned
Costs
   
Actual incurred
through
December 31, 2008
 
   
 
   
 
 
Workforce reduction
  $ 2.4     $ 3.9  
Asset impairments
    1.1       1.2  
Other charges
    0.2       0.1  
Restructuring charge
    3.7       5.2  
                 
Equipment and employee relocation
    0.2       0.1  
Other costs
    0.5       0.2  
Restructuring-related costs
    0.7       0.3  
                 
Total restructuring and restructuring-related costs
  $ 4.4     $ 5.5  

Of the restructuring and restructuring-related costs incurred, $4.8 million relates to the Components and Sensors segment and $0.7 million relates to the EMS segment.  Restructuring charges are reported on a separate line on the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Earnings/(Loss) and the restructuring-related costs are included in cost of goods sold.  Restructuring actions were completed during the fourth quarter of 2008. There was no restructuring reserve related to this plan at September 27, 2009.

The following table displays the restructuring reserve activity related to the realignment for the period ended September 27, 2009:

 ($ in millions)                                                                    September 2008 Plan
     
Restructuring liability at January 1, 2009
 
$
1.7
 
Restructuring and restructuring-related charges, excluding asset impairments and write-offs
   
 
Cost paid
   
(1.7
)
Restructuring liability at September 27, 2009
 
$
 

In March 2009, CTS initiated certain restructuring actions to reorganize certain operations to further improve its cost structure.  These actions resulted in the elimination of approximately 268 positions and were completed in the first quarter of 2009.

The following table displays the planned restructuring and restructuring-related charges associated with the realignment, as well as a summary of the actual costs incurred through September 27, 2009:

($ in millions)                                                                    March 2009 Plan
 
Planned
Costs
   
Actual incurred through
June 28, 2009
 
Workforce reduction
  $ 1.9     $ 2.1  
Asset impairments
          0.1  
Total restructuring and impairment charge
  $ 1.9     $ 2.2  

Of the restructuring and impairment costs incurred, $2.1 million relates to the Components and Sensors segment and $0.1 million relates to the EMS segment.  Restructuring charges are reported on a separate line on the Unaudited Consolidated Statements of Earnings/(Loss) and the restructuring-related costs are included in cost of goods sold.



The following table displays the restructuring reserve activity related to the realignment for the period ended September 27, 2009:

($ in millions)                                                                     March 2009 Plan
     
Restructuring liability at January 1, 2009
 
$
 
Restructuring and restructuring-related charges, excluding asset impairments and write-offs
   
2.1
 
Cost paid
   
(2.1
)
Restructuring liability at September 27, 2009
 
$
0.0
 

NOTE J – Fair Value Measurements

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of businesses acquired over the fair value of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed. CTS does not amortize goodwill, but tests it for impairment annually using a fair value approach at the “reporting unit” level. A reporting unit is the operating segment, or a business one level below that operating segment (the “component” level) if discrete financial information is prepared and regularly reviewed by senior management. However, components are aggregated as a single reporting unit if they have similar economic characteristics. The Company performed its annual impairment test as of December 31, 2008 and concluded that no impairment existed at that date.

Generally accepted accounting principles stipulate that goodwill of a reporting unit be tested for impairment between annual tests if an event occurs or circumstances change that would more likely than not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below the carrying amount. A two-step method is used to measure the amount of an impairment loss. The first step requires the Company to determine the fair value of the reporting unit and compare that fair value to the net book value of the reporting unit. The fair value of the reporting unit is determined using various valuation techniques, including a discounted cash flow analysis (an income approach) and a market approach which uses current industry information. The second step requires the Company to determine the implied fair value of goodwill and measure the impairment loss as the difference between the book value of the goodwill and the implied fair value of the goodwill. The implied fair value of goodwill must be determined in the same manner as if CTS had acquired those reporting units.

In light of a continuous decline in CTS’ market capitalization in the first quarter of 2009, CTS determined that an interim impairment test was necessary at the end of the first quarter of 2009 for both of its reporting units, EMS and Components and Sensors. After completing step one of the prescribed test, CTS determined that the estimated fair values of both reporting units were less than their book values on March 29, 2009. CTS performed the step two test and concluded that the reporting units’ goodwill were impaired. As a result, an impairment loss of $33.2 million was recorded in the first quarter of 2009. Of the $33.2 million impairment loss, $30.8 million was related to the EMS reporting unit and $2.4 million was related to the Components and Sensors reporting unit.  This non-cash goodwill impairment has no impact on CTS’ debt covenants.

The following table reconciles the beginning and ending balances of CTS’ goodwill for the periods ended June 28, 2009 and December 31, 2008:

   
EMS
   
Components & Sensors
   
Total CTS
 
Balance at January 1, 2008
 
$
24,144
   
$
513
   
$
24,657
 
                         
Tusonix acquisition
   
     
1,857
     
1,857
 
Orion acquisition
   
6,636
     
     
6,636
 
                         
Balance at December 31, 2008
   
30,780
     
2,370
     
33,150
 
                         
Purchase accounting adjustment
   
     
3
     
3
 
Impairment loss – first quarter 2009
   
(30,780
)
   
(2,373
)
   
(33,153
)
                         
Balance at September 27, 2009
 
$
   
$
   
$
 




The table below summarizes the non-financial assets that were measured and recorded at fair value on a non-recurring basis as of September 27, 2009 and the losses recorded during the three and nine-month periods ended September 27, 2009 on those assets:
 
(in thousands $)
                         
Total Loss
 
Description
 
Balance at September 27, 2009
   
Quoted prices in active markets for identical (Level 1)
   
Significant Other Observable Inputs
(Level 2)
   
Significant Unobservable Inputs
(Level 3)
   
Three Months ended
September 27, 2009
   
Nine months ended
September 27, 2009
 
Goodwill
 
$
   
$
   
$
   
$
   
$
   
$
33,153
 
Intangible assets, other than goodwill
   
34,577
     
     
     
34,577
     
     
 
Long-lived assets
   
83,395
     
     
     
83,395
     
155
     
297
 
                                   
$
155
   
$
33,450
 
 

NOTE K – Earnings/(loss) Per Share
 
The table below provides a reconciliation of the numerator and denominator of the basic and diluted earnings/(loss) per share (“EPS”) computations. Basic earnings/(loss) per share is calculated using the weighted average number of common shares outstanding as the denominator and net earnings/(loss) as the numerator. Diluted earnings/(loss) per share is calculated by adding all potentially dilutive shares to the weighted average number of common shares outstanding for the numerator. The if-converted method, whereby interest expense (on a net-of-tax basis) from the convertible senior subordinated debentures is added to net earnings/(loss) for the numerator. All anti-dilutive shares are excluded from the computation of diluted earnings/(loss) per share. The calculations below provide net earnings, average common shares outstanding, and the resultant earnings per share for both basic and diluted EPS for the three and nine month periods ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008.
 
($ in thousands, except per share amounts)
 
Net Earnings
(Numerator)
   
Shares
(in thousands) (Denominator)
   
Per Share Amount
 
Third Quarter 2009
                 
Basic EPS
 
$
4,481
     
33,873
   
$
0.13
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
  Convertible debt
   
     
         
  Equity-based compensation plans
   
     
640
         
Diluted EPS
 
 $
4,481
     
34,513
   
$
0.13
 
                         
Third Quarter 2008
                       
Basic EPS
 
$
7,215
     
33,708
   
$
0.21
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
  Convertible debt
   
665
     
4,000
         
  Equity-based compensation plans
   
     
491
         
Diluted EPS
 
$
7,880
     
38,199
   
$
0.21
 
                         
First Nine Months of 2009
                       
Basic EPS
 
$
(38,193
   
33,799
   
$
(1.13
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
  Convertible debt
   
     
         
  Equity-based compensation plans
   
     
         
Diluted EPS
 
 $
(38,193
   
33,799
   
$
(1.13
                         
First Nine Months of 2008
                       
Basic EPS
 
$
23,080
     
33,735
   
$
0.68
 
Effect of dilutive securities:
                       
  Convertible debt
   
1,876
     
4,000
         
  Equity-based compensation plans
   
     
471
         
Diluted EPS
 
$
24,956
     
38,206
   
$
0.65
 
 
 
 
 
 
The following table shows the potentially dilutive securities which have been excluded from the three and nine month periods 2009 and 2008 dilutive earnings per share calculation because they are either anti-dilutive, or the exercise price exceeds the average market price.
 

   
Three Months Ended
 
Nine Months Ended
 
(Number of Shares in Thousands)
 
September 27,
2009
 
September 28,
2008
 
September 27, 2009
 
September 28, 2008
 
Stock options where the assumed proceeds exceeds the average market price
   
919
   
523
   
1,134
   
648
 
Restricted stock units
   
   
   
582
   
 
Securities related to the subordinated convertible debt
   
   
   
984
   
 

NOTE L – Treasury Stock

In June 2007, CTS’ Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to two million shares of common stock in the open market.  Reacquired shares were used to support equity-based compensation programs and for other corporate purposes.  Since June 2007, CTS has repurchased 2,000,000 shares at a total cost of $22.2 million, which completed this program.

In May 2008, CTS’ Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of its common stock in the open market at a maximum price of $13 per share.  Reacquired shares will be used to support equity-based compensation programs and for other corporate purposes.  Since May 2008, CTS has repurchased 22,500 shares at a total cost of $0.2 million.  No shares were repurchased under this program during the first nine months of 2009.

NOTE M – Income Taxes

The effective tax rate for the three and nine month periods ended September 27, 2009 was 20.8% and (34.9%), respectively.  Income tax expense in the amount of $1.2 million was recorded during the third quarter of 2009.

On a year-to-date basis, income tax expense in the amount of $9.9 million was recorded during the first nine months of 2009.  This included a discrete period tax expense of $9.1 million related to cash repatriation and a discrete period tax benefit of $0.2 million related to goodwill impairment.

NOTE N – Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

CTS has the following other intangible assets and goodwill as of:

   
September 27, 2009
   
December 31, 2008
 
($ in thousands)
 
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
   
Gross Carrying Amount
   
Accumulated Amortization
 
Amortized intangible assets:
                       
Customer lists/relationships
 
$
51,084
   
$
(16,916
)
 
$
51,084
   
$
(15,038
)
Patents
   
10,319
     
(10,319
)
   
10,319
     
(9,886
)
Other intangibles
   
500
     
(91
)
   
500
     
(52
)
Total
   
61,903
     
(27,326
)
   
61,903
     
(24,976
)
Goodwill
   
     
     
33,150
     
 
Total other intangible assets and goodwill
 
$
61,903
   
$
(27,326
)
 
$
95,053
   
$
(24,976
)

Of the net intangible assets at September 27, 2009, $8.0 million relates to the EMS segment and $26.6 million relates to the Components and Sensors segment. CTS recorded amortization expense of $0.6 million and $2.4 million during the three and nine month periods ended September 27, 2009, respectively.  CTS recorded amortization expense of $0.9 million and $2.7 million during the three and nine month periods ended September 28, 2008, respectively.  CTS estimates remaining amortization expense of $0.6 million in 2009, $2.5 million in 2010, $2.4 million in years 2011 through 2013, and $24.3 million thereafter. 



NOTE O – Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
ASC 350-30-35, “Intangibles Other Than Goodwill – Subsequent Remeasurements”
In April 2008, the FASB issued ASC 350-30-35, “Intangibles Other Than Goodwill – Subsequent Remeasurements”, which amends the list of factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset. These provisions apply to intangible assets that are acquired individually or with a group of assets and intangible assets acquired in both business combinations and asset acquisitions. Furthermore, these provisions remove the provision that requires an entity to consider whether the renewal or extension can be accomplished without substantial cost or material modifications of the existing terms and conditions associated with the asset. Instead, these provisions require that an entity consider its own experience in renewing similar arrangements. An entity would consider market participant assumptions regarding renewal if no such relevant experience exists.  CTS adopted these provisions beginning January 1, 2009. These provisions do not have a material impact on CTS’ consolidated financial statements.

ASC 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options"
In May 2008, the FASB issued ASC 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options”, that, requires issuers of such instruments to separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity’s nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods. These provisions should be applied retrospectively to all past periods presented even if the instrument has matured, has been converted, or has otherwise been extinguished as of the effective date.  CTS adopted these provisions beginning January 1, 2009.  These provisions did not have a material impact on its consolidated financial statements.  Refer to Note E, “Debt”, for the effect of these provisions.

ASC 715-20-5-1 “Compensation – Retirement Benefits”
 In December 2008, the FASB issued ASC 715-20-5-1, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits”, ("ASC 715-20-5-1")   which expands the disclosures required by employers for postretirement plan assets.  ASC 715-20-5-1 requires plan sponsors to provide extensive new disclosures about assets in defined benefit postretirement benefit plans as well as any concentrations of associated risks. In addition, this FSP requires new disclosures similar to those in FAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”, in terms of the three-level fair value hierarchy, including a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of plan assets that fall within Level 3 of the hierarchy. ASC 715-20-5-1 is effective for periods ending after December 15, 2009.

ASC 805-20-25, “Business Combinations – Recognition of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities and Any Noncontrolling Interests”
In April 2009, the FASB issued ASC 805-20-25, “Business Combinations – Recognition of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities and Any Noncontrolling Interests”, which applies to all assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination that arise from contingencies that would be within the scope of ASC 450, “Contingencies”, if not acquired or assumed in a business combination, except for assets or liabilities arising from contingencies that are subject to specific guidance in ASC 805, “Business Combinations”. These provisions require an acquirer to recognize at fair value, at the acquisition date, an asset acquired or a liability assumed in a business combination that arises from a contingency if the acquisition-date fair value of that asset or liability can be determined during the measurement period. If the acquisition-date fair value cannot be determined during the measurement period, the asset or liability shall be recognized at the acquisition date if it is probable that the asset existed or that a liability has been incurred at the acquisition date and the amount of the asset or liability can be reasonably estimated. These provisions are effective for assets or liabilities arising from contingencies in business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008. CTS does not expect these to have a material impact on its financial statements.

ASC 825-10-65, “Financial Instruments – Transition and Open effective Date Information”
In April 2009, the FASB issued ASC 825-10-65, “Financial Instruments – Transition and Open effective Date Information”, that requires fair value disclosures of financial instruments for interim reporting periods for publicly traded companies as well as in annual financial statements. The provisions also require these disclosures in summarized financial information at interim reporting periods and is effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009. These provisions did not have a material impact on CTS’ financial statements.

ASC 855, “Subsequent Events”
In May 2009, the FASB issued ASC 855, “Subsequent Events”. The objective of these provisions are to establish general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued. The provisions discuss two types of subsequent events: (1) events that provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the balance sheet, and is recognized in the financial statements and (2) events that provide evidence about conditions that did not exist at the date of the balance sheet but arose after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued, and not recognized at the balance sheet date. An entity shall also disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated, as well as whether that date is the date the financial statements were issued or the date the financial statements were available to be issued. The requirements are effective for interim and annual financial periods ending after June 15, 2009. The requirements do not have a material impact on CTS’ consolidated financial statements.  CTS evaluated its September 27, 2009 consolidated financial statements for subsequent events through October 28, 2009, the date the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued.  CTS is not aware of any subsequent events which would require recognition or disclosure in the consolidated financial statements.
 
ASU 2009-01, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles”
In June 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-01, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“ASU 2009-01”), which replaces FAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“FAS No. 162”). FAS No. 162 identified the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in preparing the financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. It arranged these sources of GAAP in a hierarchy for users to apply accordingly. Once ASU 2009-01 is in effect, all of its content will carry the same level of authority, effectively superseding FAS No. 162. Thus, the GAAP hierarchy will be modified to include only two levels of GAAP: authoritative and nonauthoritative. ASU 2009-01 is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. The provisions of ASU 2009-01 do not have a material impact on CTS’ consolidated financial statements.





Item 2.     Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations (“MD&A”)

Overview

CTS Corporation (“we”, “our”, “us”) is a global manufacturer of components and sensors used primarily in the automotive and communications markets.  We also provide electronic manufacturing solutions, including design and supply chain management functions, primarily serving the communications, industrial, medical and defense and aerospace markets under contract arrangements with the original equipment manufacturers.
 
In the third quarter 2009, sales decreased from the same quarter last year, mainly due to the ongoing recessionary environment that continues to negatively affect demand in all the markets that we serve.  However, sales in each successive quarter of 2009 have improved compared to the prior, reflecting a slight recovery from the first quarter 2009.  Similarly, operating earnings have improved each quarter, reflecting improved sales, more diversified sales mix and proactive management of costs.

As discussed in more detail throughout the MD&A:

·  
Total sales in the third quarter 2009 of $126.6 million were reported through two segments, EMS and Components and Sensors.  Sales decreased by $43.5 million, or 25.6%, in the third quarter of 2009 from the third quarter of 2008.  Sales in the Components and Sensors segment decreased by 23.0% versus the third quarter of 2008, while sales in the EMS segment decreased by 27.5% compared to the third quarter of 2008.  Sequentially, third quarter 2009 sales increased by $6.1 million, or 5.1% compared to the second quarter 2009.

·  
Gross margins, as a percent of sales, were 20.7% and 19.6% in the third quarters of 2009 and 2008, respectively.  Sales in the Components and Sensors segment, which inherently generates a higher gross margin, increased to 44.1% of total company sales in the third quarter of 2009 compared to 42.7% of total sales in the same period of 2008.

·  
Selling, general and administrative (“SG&A”) and research and development (“R&D”) expenses were $19.9 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared to $25.3 million in the third quarter of 2008.  This significant reduction reflects our proactive management of costs, including the benefits of previously announced restructuring actions and aggressive cost-cutting measures companywide.

·  
Interest and other expense in 2009 was $0.6 million versus $1.6 million in the same quarter 2008.

·  
The income tax expense and rate for the third quarter of 2009 were $1.2 million and 20.8%, respectively.

·  
Net income was $4.5 million, or $0.13 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2009.  This compares with net income of $7.2 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2008, which included a net benefit of $0.05 per share from a tax credit offset by restructuring and related charges.

·  
Total debt as a percentage of total capitalization, which is the sum of total debt and shareholders’ equity, improved to 17.0% at the end of the third quarter of 2009, compared with 22.4% at the end of 2008.

·  
Working capital decreased $19.4 million in the third quarter of 2009 versus year-end 2008.

·  
Net cash provided by operating activities was $34.1 million during the first nine months of 2009, compared to $20.1 million during the first nine months of 2008.




Critical Accounting Policies

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations discusses our unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.  The preparation of these financial statements requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period.

Management believes that judgment and estimates related to the following critical accounting policies could materially affect our consolidated financial statements:

·  
Inventory valuation, the allowance for doubtful accounts, and other accrued liabilities
·  
Long-lived and intangible assets valuation, and depreciation/amortization periods
·  
Income taxes
·  
Retirement plans
·  
Equity-based compensation

In the third quarter of 2009, there were no changes in the above critical accounting policies.


Results of Operations

Comparison of Third quarter 2009 and Third quarter 2008

Segment Discussion

Refer to Note G, “Segments”, for a description of the Company’s segments.

The following table highlights the segment results for the three-month periods ending September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008:
 
($ in thousands)
 
Components & Sensors
   
EMS
   
Consolidated
Total
 
Third quarter 2009
                 
Sales
 
$
55,828
   
$
70,737
   
$
126,565
 
Segment operating earnings
 
4,069
   
2,214
   
6,283
 
% of sales
   
7.3
   
3.1
   
5.0
                         
Third quarter 2008
                       
Sales
 
$
72,524
   
$
97,510
   
$
170,034
 
Segment operating earnings
 
5,709
   
2,657
   
8,366
 
% of sales
   
7.9
%
   
2.7
   
4.9

Sales in the Components and Sensors segment decreased $16.7 million, or 23.0% from the third quarter of 2008, primarily attributed to the global recession resulting in decreased automotive product sales of $7.7 million and lower electronic component sales for infrastructure applications of $4.3 million.

The Components and Sensors segment recorded operating earnings of $4.1 million in the third quarter of 2009 versus $5.7 million in the third quarter of 2008.  The unfavorable earnings change resulted from the negative impact of lower sales.  This impact was mitigated, in part, by our proactive management of costs, including the benefits of previously announced restructuring actions and aggressive cost-cutting measures.

Sales in the EMS segment decreased $26.8 million, or 27.5%, in the third quarter of 2009 versus the third quarter of 2008.  The decrease in sales was primarily attributable to expected end-of-life driven lower sales to Hewlett-Packard and lower communications market sales, partially offset by higher sales in the defense and aerospace and medical markets.

EMS segment operating earnings were $2.2 million in the third quarter of 2009 versus $2.7 million in the third quarter of 2008.  The unfavorable earnings change was primarily due to the negative impact of lower sales, partially offset by favorable product mix and lower operating costs resulting from previously announced restructuring actions.

 
 
Total Company Discussion

The following table highlights changes in significant components of the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings/(Loss) for the three-month periods ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008:

   
Three months ended
       
 
($ in thousands, except net earnings per share)
 
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Net sales
 
$
126,565
   
$
170,034
   
$
(43,469
                         
Gross margin
 
26,185
   
33,350
   
(7,165
)
% of net sales
   
20.7
%
   
19.6
%
   
1.1
%
                         
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
16,494
   
20,754
   
(4,260
% of net sales
   
13.0
%
   
12.2
%
   
0.8
%
                         
Research and development expenses
 
$
3,408
   
4,509
   
(1,101
)
% of net sales
   
2.7
%
   
2.7
%
   
%
                         
Restructuring charge
 
$
   
$
3,202
   
$
(3,202
)
% of net sales
   
%
   
1.9
%
   
(1.9
)%
                         
Operating earnings
 
$
6,283
   
4,885
   
1,398
 
% of net sales
   
5.0
%
   
2.9
%
   
2.1
%
                         
Income tax expense / (benefit)
 
1,173
   
(3,912)
   
5,085
 
                         
Net earnings
 
$
4,481
   
7,215
   
(2,734
)
% of net sales
   
3.5
%
   
4.2
%
   
(0.7
)%
                         
Net earnings per diluted share
 
$
0.13
   
 $
0.21
   
$
(0.08
                         

Third quarter sales of $126.6 million decreased $43.5 million, or 25.6%, from the third quarter of 2008.  EMS segment sales were lower by $26.8 million primarily from expected end-of-life driven lower sales to Hewlett-Packard and lower industrial market sales, partially offset by higher sales in the defense and aerospace market.  Components and Sensors segment sales decreased $16.7 million from lower automotive product sales and lower electronic component sales for infrastructure applications.

Gross margin as a percent of sales was 20.7% in the third quarter of 2009 compared to 19.6% in the third quarter of 2008 due to favorable segment mix, favorable product mix within the EMS segment and the benefits of previously announced restructuring actions, partially offset by lower absorption of fixed costs on significantly lower sales volumes and lower pension income in the Components and Sensors segment.  Sales in the Components and Sensors segment, which inherently generates a higher gross margin, increased to 44.1% of total company sales in the third quarter of 2009 compared to 42.7% of total sales in the same period of 2008.

SG&A expenses were $16.5 million, or 13.0% of sales, in the third quarter of 2009 versus $20.8 million, or 12.2% of sales, in the third quarter of 2008.  This significant reduction of $4.3 million reflects our proactive management of costs, including the benefits of previously announced restructuring actions and aggressive cost-cutting measures companywide.

R&D expenses were $3.4 million, or 2.7% of sales in the third quarter of 2009 versus $4.5 million, or 2.7% of sales in the third quarter of 2008.  R&D expenses are incurred by the Components and Sensors segment and are primarily focused on expanded applications and new product development, as well as current product and process enhancements.

Pre-tax restructuring and restructuring-related costs incurred in the three months ended September 28, 2008 were $3.5 million.  No restructuring costs were incurred in the three months ended September 27, 2009.

Operating earnings were $6.3 million in the third quarter of 2009 compared to $4.9 million in the third quarter of 2008.  The increase in operating earnings resulted primarily from lower SG&A, R&D and restructuring costs, mostly offset by lower gross margin dollars on lower sales.

Interest and other expense in 2009 was $0.6 million versus $1.6 million in the same quarter 2008.  The favorable change resulted from a decrease in interest expense of $1.3 million primarily due to lower outstanding debt.

The effective tax rate for the third quarter of 2009 was 20.8%.  Income tax expense in the amount of $1.2 million was recorded during the third quarter of 2009.  In the third quarter of 2008, we recorded an income tax benefit of $3.9 million which included a discrete period tax benefit of approximately $3.9 million related to the release of a valuation allowance in a non-U.S. jurisdiction.

Net income was $4.5 million, or $0.13 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2009.  This compares with net income of $7.2 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, in the third quarter of 2008.
 

 
Comparison of First Nine Months 2009 and First Nine Months 2008
 
Segment Discussion

The following table highlights the segment results for the nine-month periods ending September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008:
 

($ in thousands)
 
Components & Sensors
   
EMS
   
Consolidated
Total
 
First Nine Months 2009
                 
Sales
 
$
147,728
   
$
217,366
   
$
365,094
 
Segment operating earnings
 
2,749
   
6,559
   
9,308
 
% of sales
   
1.9
   
3.0
   
2.5
                         
First Nine Months 2008
                       
Sales
 
$
234,406
   
$
294,474
   
$
528,880
 
Segment operating earnings
 
22,696
   
8,371
   
31,067
 
% of sales
   
9.7
%
   
2.8
   
5.9
 
Sales in the Components and Sensors segment decreased $86.7 million, or 37.0% from the first nine months of 2008, primarily attributed to decreased automotive product sales of $54.1 million.

The Components and Sensors segment recorded operating earnings of $2.7 million in the first nine months of 2009 versus earnings of $22.7 million in the first nine months of 2008.  The unfavorable earnings change resulted from the negative impact of lower sales.  This impact was mitigated in part by our proactive management of costs, including the benefits of previously announced restructuring actions and aggressive cost-cutting measures.

Sales in the EMS segment decreased $77.1 million, or 26.2%, in the first nine months of 2009 versus the first nine months of 2008.  The decrease in sales was primarily attributable to expected end-of-life driven lower sales to Hewlett-Packard and lower communications market sales, partially offset by higher sales in the defense and aerospace market.

EMS segment operating earnings were $6.6 million in the first nine months of 2009 versus $8.4 million in the first nine months of 2008.  The unfavorable earnings change was primarily due to the negative impact of lower sales, partially offset by favorable product mix and lower operating costs resulting from previously announced restructuring actions.

 
 
Total Company Discussion

The following table highlights changes in significant components of the Unaudited Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings/(Loss) for the nine-month periods ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008:

   
Nine months ended
       
 
($ in thousands, except net earnings per share)
 
September 27, 2009
   
September 28, 2008
   
Increase
(Decrease)
 
Net sales
 
$
365,094
   
$
528,880
   
$
(163,786
                         
Gross margin
 
67,892
   
107,327
   
(39,435
)
% of net sales
   
18.6
%
   
20.3
%
   
(1.7
)%
                         
Selling, general and administrative expenses
 
48,357
   
63,236
   
(14,879
% of net sales
   
13.2
%
   
12.0
%
   
1.2
%
                         
Research and development expenses
 
10,227
   
13,576
   
(3,349
)
% of net sales
   
2.8
%
   
2.6
%
   
0.2
%
                         
Restructuring charge
 
2,243
   
3,465
   
(1,222
% of net sales
   
0.6
%
   
0.7
%
   
(0.1
)%
                         
Goodwill impairment
 
33,153
   
   
33,153
 
% of net sales
   
9.1
%
   
%
   
9.1
%
                         
Operating (loss)/earnings
 
(26,088
 
27,050
   
(53,138
)
% of net sales
   
(7.1
)%
   
5.1
%
   
(12.2
)%
                         
Income tax expense
 
9,872
   
266
   
9,606
 
                         
Net (loss)/earnings
 
(38,193
 
23,080
   
(61,273
)
% of net sales
   
(10.5
)%
   
4.4
%
   
(14.9
)%
                         
Net (loss)/earnings per diluted share
 
$
(1.13
 
 $
0.65
   
$
(1.78
                         

First nine months of 2009 sales of $365.1 million decreased $163.8 million, or 31.0%, from the first nine months of 2008.  Components and Sensors segment sales were lower by $86.7 million, primarily in the automotive market.  EMS segment sales decreased $77.1 million from expected end-of-life driven lower sales to Hewlett-Packard and lower communications market sales, partially offset by higher sales in the defense and aerospace market.

Gross margin as a percent of sales was 18.6% in the first nine months of 2009 compared to 20.3% in the first nine months of 2008 due to lower absorption of fixed costs on significantly lower sales volumes, lower pension income in the Components and Sensors segment and unfavorable segment sales mix, partially offset by the benefits of previously announced restructuring actions.  Sales in the Components and Sensors segment, which inherently generates a higher gross margin, decreased to 40.5% of total company sales in the first nine months of 2009 compared to 44.3% of total sales in the same period of 2008.

SG&A expenses were $48.4 million, or 13.2% of sales, in the first nine months of 2009 versus $63.2 million, or 12.0% of sales, in the first nine months of 2008.  This significant reduction of $14.8 million reflects our proactive management of costs, including the benefits of previously announced restructuring actions and aggressive cost-cutting measures companywide.

R&D expenses were $10.2 million, or 2.8% of sales, in the first nine months of 2009 versus $13.6 million, or 2.6% of sales, in the first nine months of 2008.  R&D expenses are incurred by the Components and Sensors segment and are primarily focused on expanded applications and new product development, as well as current product and process enhancements.

U.S. GAAP rules require all public companies to test their recorded goodwill asset for impairment on an annual basis.  We performed our annual impairment test as of December 31, 2008.  The typical and traditional testing method requires determination of the fair value of the underlying assets by utilizing a discounted cash flow analysis based on our most current long-term financial forecasts, combined with a market approach which uses current industry information.  As of December 2008, the SEC also suggested that a company's stock price and related market capitalization (stock price multiplied by shares outstanding) needed to be emphasized and reconciled to the traditional method of goodwill testing.  Therefore, due to our declining stock price during the first quarter of 2009, we were required to test goodwill for impairment again at the end of March 2009.  The goodwill testing performed indicated that impairment did exist and our entire goodwill asset of $33.2 million needed to be written off.  The goodwill impairment charge did not affect our liquidity, current or future cash flows or debt covenants.
 
 
 
 
The first nine months of 2009 included approximately $2.2 million of restructuring costs associated with restructuring actions announced in March 2009.  Comparatively, first nine months of 2008 operating earnings included approximately $3.5 million of restructuring and restructuring-related costs associated with the realignment of operations announced in November 2007.  Refer to Note I, “Restructuring”, for further discussion on restructuring and realignment actions.

Operating loss was $26.1 million in the first nine months of 2009 compared to operating earnings of $27.1 million in the first nine months of 2008.
 
 
Interest and other expense in the first nine months of 2009 was $2.2 million versus $3.7 million in the same period of 2008.  The lower expense resulted primarily from $3.4 million lower interest expense, partially offset by higher foreign currency exchange losses of approximately $1.0 million in 2009.  The decrease in net interest expense was primarily due to lower outstanding debt.
 
The effective tax rate for the first nine months of 2009 was (34.9) %.  Income tax expense in the amount of $9.9 million was recorded during the first nine months of 2009.  This included a discrete period tax expense of $9.1 million related to cash repatriation and a discrete period tax benefit of $0.2 million related to goodwill impairment.  Of this $9.1 million, approximately $8.6 million is a non-cash expense.  Comparatively, in the first nine months of 2008 we recorded income tax expense of $0.3 million which included a discrete period tax benefit of approximately $3.9 million related to the release of a valuation allowance in a non-U.S. jurisdiction.

Net loss was $38.2 million, or $1.13 per diluted share, in the first nine months of 2009 compared with net earnings of $23.1 million, or $0.65 per diluted share, in the first nine months of 2008.

Outlook

Based on the year-to-date performance and expecting gradual improvements, primarily driven by automotive volumes, management anticipates full-year 2009 adjusted diluted earnings per share in the range of $0.27-$0.31.
 
Projected Full Year GAAP Earnings per Share

The following table reconciles projected GAAP (loss) per share to adjusted projected earnings per share for the Company:
   
Year Ended December 31, 2009
 
Projected full year GAAP (loss) per share
 
$
(1.02) – (0.98)
 
Tax affected adjustments to projected GAAP loss per share:
       
   Tax expense associated with our cash repatriation
   
0.27
 
   Restructuring charge
   
0.05
 
   Goodwill impairment
   
0.97
 
Adjusted full year projected earnings per share
 
$
0.27 – 0.31
 

Adjusted earnings per share is a non-GAAP financial measure.  The most directly comparable GAAP financial measure is diluted earnings / (loss) per share.  CTS calculates adjusted earnings per share to exclude the per share impact of tax expense associated with our cash repatriation and restructuring and goodwill impairment charges.  We exclude the impact of these items because they are discrete events which have a significant impact on comparable GAAP financial measures and could distort an evaluation of our normal operating performance.  CTS uses adjusted earnings per share measures to evaluate overall performance, establish plans and perform strategic analysis.  Using adjusted earnings per share measures avoid distortion in the evaluation of operating results by eliminating the impact of events which are not related to normal operating performance.  Because adjusted earnings per share measures are based on the exclusion of specific items, they may not be comparable to measures used by other companies which have similar titles. CTS' management compensates for this limitation when performing peer comparisons by evaluating both GAAP and non-GAAP financial measures reported by peer companies.  CTS believes that adjusted earnings per share measures are useful to its management, investors and stakeholders in that they:
 
·  
provide a truer measure of CTS' operating performance,
·  
reflect the results used by management in making decisions about the business, and
·  
help review and project CTS' performance over time.

We recommend that investors consider both actual and adjusted earnings per share measures in evaluating the performance of CTS with peer companies.
 
 
 
Liquidity and Capital Resources

Overview

Cash and cash equivalents were $40.3 million at September 27, 2009 compared to $44.6 million at December 31, 2008.  Total debt at September 27, 2009 was $49.5 million, compared to $80.0 million at the end of 2008.  Both cash and debt decreased primarily due to paying off the remaining aggregate principal amount of senior subordinated debentures in May 2009.  Total debt as a percentage of total capitalization was 17.0% at the end of the third quarter of 2009, compared with 22.4% at the end of 2008.  Total debt as a percentage of total capitalization is defined as the sum of notes payable, current portion of long-term debt and long-term debt as a percentage of total debt and shareholders’ equity.

Working capital decreased $19.4 million in the third quarter of 2009 versus year-end 2008, primarily due to decreases in accounts receivable of $18.2 million and inventory of $10.4 million, partially offset by decreased accounts payable of $9.1 million, all resulting from managing to relatively lower business activity during the first nine months of the year.
 
Cash Flow

Operating Activities

Net cash provided by operating activities was $34.1 million during the first nine months of 2009.  Components of net cash provided by operating activities include a net loss of $38.2 million, restructuring and asset impairment charges of $35.4 million, depreciation and amortization expense of $14.9 million and net changes in assets and liabilities of $13.7 million, partially offset by an increase in prepaid pension asset of $5.9 million.  The changes in assets and liabilities were primarily due to decreased accounts receivable of $20.0 million and decreased inventories of $11.0 million, partially offset by decreased accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $18.9 million.
 
Net cash provided by operating activities was $20.1 million for the first nine months of 2008.  Components of net cash provided by operating activities include net earnings of $23.1 million and depreciation and amortization expense of $18.5 million, partially offset by an increase in prepaid pension asset of $7.6 million and net changes in assets and liabilities of $17.2 million.  The changes in assets and liabilities were due to decreased accounts payable and accrued liabilities of $13.8 million, increased inventories of $5.5 million and decreased accounts receivable of $1.0 million.
 
Investing Activities

Net cash used in investing activities was $3.4 million for the first nine months of 2009, for capital expenditures of $4.7 million, partially offset by proceeds of $1.1 million received from the sale of an idle facility.

Net cash used in investing activities was $34.6 million for the first nine months of 2008, primarily to complete acquisitions and for capital expenditures.

Financing Activities

Net cash used by financing activities for the first nine months of 2009 was $35.0 million, primarily from paying off the remaining aggregate principal amount of senior subordinated debentures in May 2009.

Net cash provided by financing activities for the first nine months of 2008 was $17.1 million, consisting primarily of a net increase in debt of $27.1 million, offset by $7.0 million for purchase of CTS common stock and $3.1 million in dividend payments.

Capital Resources

Refer to Note E, “Debt”, for further discussion.

On June 27, 2006, we entered into a $100.0 million, unsecured revolving credit agreement.  Under the terms of the revolving credit agreement, we can expand the credit facility to $150 million, subject to participating banks’ approval.  There was $49.5 million and $48.0 million outstanding under the revolving credit agreement at September 27, 2009 and December 31, 2008, respectively.  At September 27, 2009, we had $50.5 million available under this agreement.  Interest rates on the revolving credit agreement fluctuate based upon LIBOR and our quarterly total leverage ratio.  We pay a commitment fee on the undrawn portion of the revolving credit agreement.  The commitment fee varies based on the quarterly leverage ratio and was 0.20 percent per annum at September 27, 2009.  The revolving credit agreement requires, among other things, that we comply with a maximum total leverage ratio and a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio.  Our failure to comply with these covenants could reduce the borrowing availability under the revolving credit agreement.  We were in compliance with all debt covenants at September 27, 2009.  The revolving credit agreement requires us to deliver quarterly financial statements, annual financial statements, auditors certifications and compliance certificates within a specified number of days after the end of a quarter and year-end.  Additionally, the revolving agreement contains restrictions limiting our ability to: dispose of assets; incur certain additional debt; repay other debt or amend subordinated debt instruments; create liens on assets; make investments, loans or advances; make acquisitions or engage in mergers or consolidations; engage in certain transactions with subsidiaries and affiliates; and the amounts allowed for stock repurchases and dividend payments.  The revolving credit agreement expires in June 2011.

 
 
In the fourth quarter 2008, we purchased $27.5 million of our convertible senior subordinated debentures (“2.125% Debentures”) through open market discounted transactions.  In May 2009, we settled the remaining $32.5 million in aggregate principal amount of these 2.125% Debentures.  These unsecured debentures bore interest at an annual rate of 2.125%, payable semiannually on May 1 and November 1 of each year through the maturity date of May 1, 2024.  The 2.125% Debentures were convertible, under certain circumstances, into CTS common stock at a conversion price of $15.00 per share (which is equivalent to an initial conversion rate of approximately 66.6667 shares per $1,000 principal amount of the notes).

In May 2008, the FASB issued ASC 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options”, that required issuers of such instruments to separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity’s non-convertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods.  This accounting change must be applied retrospectively to all past periods presented even if the instrument has matured, has been converted, or has otherwise been extinguished as of the effective date of January 1, 2009. We adopted these provisions in relation to our 2.125% subordinated debentures effective January 1, 2009.
 
The principal amount of the liability component at December 31, 2008 was $32.5 million and the unamortized discounts were approximately $0.5 million.  The amounts related to the equity component, net of equity issue costs and deferred tax, at September 27, 2009 and December 31, 2008 were approximately $7.0 million.

The amount of interest recognized for the nine-month periods ended September 27, 2009 and September 28, 2008 was approximately $0.7 million and $3.0 million, respectively.  The $0.7 million of interest expense recognized in the first nine months of 2009 comprised of approximately $0.5 million of interest expense due to the amortization of the discount on the debt and $0.2 million of interest expense due to the contractual interest coupon.  The $3.0 million of interest expense recognized in the first nine months of 2008 comprised of approximately $2.0 million of interest expense due to the amortization of the discount on the debt and $1.0 million of interest expense due to the contractual interest coupon.

In May 2008, our Board of Directors authorized a program to repurchase up to one million shares of CTS common stock in the open market at a maximum price of $13 per share.  Since May 2008, we have repurchased 22,500 shares at a total cost of $0.2 million.  Reacquired shares will be used to support equity-based compensation programs and for other corporate purposes.
 
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
 
ASC 350-30-35, “Intangibles Other Than Goodwill – Subsequent Remeasurements”
In April 2008, the FASB issued ASC 350-30-35, “Intangibles Other Than Goodwill – Subsequent Remeasurements”, which amends the list of factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions used to determine the useful life of a recognized intangible asset.  These provisions apply to intangible assets that are acquired individually or with a group of assets and intangible assets acquired in both business combinations and asset acquisitions.  Furthermore, these provisions remove the provision that requires an entity to consider whether the renewal or extension can be accomplished without substantial cost or material modifications of the existing terms and conditions associated with the asset. Instead, these provisions require that an entity consider its own experience in renewing similar arrangements.  An entity would consider market participant assumptions regarding renewal if no such relevant experience exists.  We adopted these provisions beginning January 1, 2009.  These provisions do not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

ASC 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options”
In May 2008, the FASB issued ASC 470-20, “Debt with Conversion and Other Options”, that requires issuers of such instruments to separately account for the liability and equity components in a manner that will reflect the entity’s nonconvertible debt borrowing rate when interest cost is recognized in subsequent periods.  These provisions should be applied retrospectively to all past periods presented even if the instrument has matured, has been converted, or has otherwise been extinguished as of the effective date.  We adopted these provisions beginning January 1, 2009.  These provisions did not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.  Refer to Note E, “Debt”, for the effect of these provisions.
 
ASC 715-20-5-1 “Compensation – Retirement Benefits”
 In December 2008, the FASB issued ASC 715-20-5-1, “Compensation – Retirement Benefits”, ("ASC 715-20-5-1")   which expands the disclosures required by employers for postretirement plan assets.  ASC 715-20-5-1 requires plan sponsors to provide extensive new disclosures about assets in defined benefit postretirement benefit plans as well as any concentrations of associated risks. In addition, this FSP requires new disclosures similar to those in FAS No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements”, in terms of the three-level fair value hierarchy, including a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of plan assets that fall within Level 3 of the hierarchy. ASC 715-20-5-1 is effective for periods ending after December 15, 2009.

ASC 805-20-25, “Business Combinations – Recognition of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities and Any Noncontrolling Interests”
In April 2009, the FASB issued ASC 805-20-25, “Business Combinations – Recognition of Identifiable Assets and Liabilities and Any Noncontrolling Interests”, which applies to all assets acquired and liabilities assumed in a business combination that arise from contingencies that would be within the scope of ASC 450, “Contingencies”, if not acquired or assumed in a business combination, except for assets or liabilities arising from contingencies that are subject to specific guidance in ASC 805, “Business Combinations”.  These provisions require an acquirer to recognize at fair value, at the acquisition date, an asset acquired or a liability assumed in a business combination that arises from a contingency if the acquisition-date fair value of that asset or liability can be determined during the measurement period.  If the acquisition-date fair value cannot be determined during the measurement period, the asset or liability shall be recognized at the acquisition date if it is probable that the asset existed or that a liability has been incurred at the acquisition date and the amount of the asset or liability can be reasonably estimated.  These provisions are effective for assets or liabilities arising from contingencies in business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after December 15, 2008.  We do not expect these to have a material impact on our financial statements.

 
 
 
ASC 825-10-65, “Financial Instruments – Transition and Open effective Date Information”
In April 2009, the FASB issued ASC 825-10-65, “Financial Instruments – Transition and Open effective Date Information”, that requires fair value disclosures of financial instruments for interim reporting periods for publicly traded companies as well as in annual financial statements.  The provisions also require these disclosures in summarized financial information at interim reporting periods and is effective for interim reporting periods ending after June 15, 2009, with early adoption permitted for periods ending after March 15, 2009.  These provisions did not have a material impact on our financial statements.

ASC 855, “Subsequent Events”
In May 2009, the FASB issued ASC 855, “Subsequent Events”.  The objective of these provisions are to establish general standards of accounting for and disclosure of events that occur after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued.  The provisions discuss two types of subsequent events: (1) events that provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the balance sheet, and is recognized in the financial statements and (2) events that provide evidence about conditions that did not exist at the date of the balance sheet but arose after the balance sheet date but before financial statements are issued or are available to be issued, and not recognized at the balance sheet date.  An entity shall also disclose the date through which subsequent events have been evaluated, as well as whether that date is the date the financial statements were issued or the date the financial statements were available to be issued.  The requirements are effective for interim and annual financial periods ending after June 15, 2009. The requirements do not have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.  We evaluated our September 27, 2009 consolidated financial statements for subsequent events through October 28, 2009, the date the consolidated financial statements were available to be issued.  We are not aware of any subsequent events which would require recognition or disclosure in our consolidated financial statements.
 
 
ASU 2009-01, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles”
In June 2009, the FASB issued ASU 2009-01, “The FASB Accounting Standards Codification and the Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“ASU 2009-01”), which replaces FAS No. 162, “The Hierarchy of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles” (“FAS No. 162”). FAS No. 162 identified the sources of accounting principles and the framework for selecting the principles used in preparing the financial statements that are presented in conformity with GAAP. It arranged these sources of GAAP in a hierarchy for users to apply accordingly. Once ASU 2009-01 is in effect, all of its content will carry the same level of authority, effectively superseding FAS No. 162. Thus, the GAAP hierarchy will be modified to include only two levels of GAAP: authoritative and nonauthoritative. ASU 2009-01 is effective for financial statements issued for interim and annual periods ending after September 15, 2009. The provisions of ASU 2009-01 do not have a material impact on CTS’ consolidated financial statements.


*****

Forward-Looking Statements
 
This document contains statements that are, or may be deemed to be, forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995.  These forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, any financial or other guidance, statements that reflect our current expectations concerning future results and events, and any other statements that are not based solely on historical fact.  Forward-looking statements are based on management’s expectations, certain assumptions and currently available information.  Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof.  These forward-looking statements are made subject to certain risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause our actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from those presented in the forward-looking statements.  For more detailed information on the risks and uncertainties associated with our business, see our reports filed with the SEC.  Examples of factors that may affect future operating results and financial condition include, but are not limited to: rapid technological change; general market conditions in the automotive, communications, and computer industries, as well as conditions in the industrial, defense and aerospace, and medical markets; reliance on key customers; the ability to protect our intellectual property; pricing pressures and demand for our products; and risks associated with our international operations, including trade and tariff barriers, exchange rates and political and geopolitical risks. We undertake no obligation to publicly update our forward-looking statements to reflect new information or events or circumstances that arise after the date hereof, including market or industry changes.



Item 3.   Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk
 
There have been no other material changes in our market risk since December 31, 2008.
 
 
Pursuant to Rule 13a-15(e) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, management, under the direction of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures.  Based on such evaluation our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer concluded that our disclosure controls and procedures were effective as of September 27, 2009, provided that the evaluation did not include an evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting for the acquired business, as described further below.

In January 2008, we acquired Tusonix, Inc., which has facilities in Tucson, Arizona and Nogales, Mexico.  Each facility reports financial results that are included in this report for the quarter ended September 27, 2009.   Management has not made an assessment of the Tusonix business’ internal control over financial reporting since the date of acquisition.  The Tusonix business’ assets and liabilities acquired were $14.8 million and $2.3 million, respectively and the sales included in CTS’ 2008 financial statements were approximately $14.0 million. The Tusonix business was not included in our evaluation of the effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures.
 
Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting
 
There were no changes in our internal control over financial reporting for the quarter ended September 27, 2009 that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect our internal control over financial reporting.

 
PART II  - OTHER INFORMATION
 

Certain processes in the manufacturing of our current and past products create hazardous waste by-products as currently defined by federal and state laws and regulations.  We have been notified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, state environmental agencies and, in some cases, generator groups that it is or may be a potentially responsible party regarding hazardous waste remediation at several non-CTS sites.  In addition to these non-CTS sites, we have an ongoing practice of providing reserves for probable remediation activities at certain of our manufacturing locations and for claims and proceedings against us with respect to other environmental matters.  In the opinion of management, based upon presently available information relating to all such matters, either adequate provision for probable costs has been made, or the ultimate costs resulting will not materially affect the consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows of CTS.

Certain claims are pending against us with respect to matters arising out of the ordinary conduct of our business.  For all claims, in the opinion of management, based upon presently available information, either adequate provision for anticipated costs has been made by insurance, accruals or otherwise, or the ultimate anticipated costs resulting will not materially affect our consolidated financial position, results of operations or cash flows.

During 2007, we were informed that the SEC is conducting an informal inquiry relating to the 2006 accounting misstatements of our Moorpark and Santa Clara, California manufacturing facilities.  We are in full cooperation with the SEC in its inquiry.

Item 1A.  Risk Factors

There have been no significant changes in the Company’s risk factors since December 31, 2008.



Item 6.   Exhibits

 
Executive Severance Policy.
     
 
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
 
Certification pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
 
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
     
 
Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.
 




SIGNATURES

 
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.

CTS Corporation
 
CTS Corporation
 
       
/s/ Richard G. Cutter III
 
/s/ Donna L. Belusar
 
Richard G. Cutter III
Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel
 
Donna L. Belusar
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
 
       
Dated: October 28, 2009
 
 Dated: October 28, 2009
 
 
 


31

 
CTS Corporation
Form 10-Q
Third Quarter 2009


EXHIBIT (10)



CTS CORPORATION EXECUTIVE SEVERANCE POLICY

Effective:  September 10, 2009


Purpose
CTS recognizes that there are times when it may become necessary to terminate the employment of a corporate officer or other executive.  The purpose of this policy is to provide an appropriate level of severance benefits to eligible officers and executives.

Scope
Applies to CTS’ President and Chief Executive Officer and any other officers and executives who are designated as eligible for Tier 1 and Tier 2 executive severance under this policy.

Responsibility
CTS’ Board of Directors, Chief Executive Officer, and Senior Vice President, Administration, as appropriate.

Procedure

A.
Eligibility.   CTS’ President and Chief Executive Officer is eligible for Severance Benefits under the terms of this policy.  In addition, he may recommend, and CTS’ Board of Directors will designate from time-to-time through Board action, those other officers and executives who are eligible for severance under this policy at the Tier 1 and the Tier 2 severance levels.  (The President and CEO, and designated officers and executives are collectively referred to herein as “Executive(s).”)  An eligible Executive will be paid Severance Benefits unless his or her termination was due to one of the events listed in paragraph A(1) below, provided also that the eligible Executive executes and delivers the release required by this policy.

 
1.
Ineligibility.   Terminations not eligible for Severance Benefits are:

·  
Terminations for Cause or resulting from Gross or Willful Misconduct;

·  
Resignations (other than a resignation that qualifies as an “involuntary separation from service” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (the “Code”);

·  
Layoffs/ furloughs, unless the layoff or furlough is subsequently converted to a termination;

·  
Deaths or transfers to a disability status;

·  
Retirements, except as provided in paragraph D(6) below;

·  
Inability to return from a medical leave even though unable to meet Disability status requirements unless the cause for the medical leave was covered by Worker’s Compensation;

·  
The sale of a CTS facility, division, or operation when the Executive has been offered employment in a comparable position by the successor organization as a part of the sale.  Executives who do not elect to accept employment by the new employer and who desire to seek employment elsewhere within CTS shall not be eligible for Severance Benefits if such employment cannot be provided.

·  
In the event of a change in control, as defined by the agreement, if the Executive is the beneficiary of a change-in-control Severance Agreement and eligible for payment under that agreement.

 
2.
Separation from Service.   For purposes of this policy, Executive will not be considered to have a termination of employment unless the termination qualifies as a separation from service within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time-to-time (“Separation from Service”).

B.
Tier 2 Severance Benefits.   Tier 2 Executives shall be eligible for the following Severance Benefits:

 
1.
Severance Pay.   Severance pay equal to 9 months of his or her base salary in effect immediately prior to termination.  Such payment will be paid in a single lump sum cash payment on the 60 th day after the date of the Executive’s Separation from Service.

1

 
2.
Health and Dental Insurance.   For a period of 9 months following the date of the Executive’s termination, CTS will make available to the Executive the medical and dental benefits (but not long-term or short-term disability benefits) that the Executive had elected and was eligible to receive as of the date of the Executive’s termination.  The cost of such coverage will be shared by CTS and the Executive on the same basis as in effect prior to the Executive’s termination, with the Executive required to make monthly premium payments.  If the coverage described in this paragraph is not or cannot be paid or provided under any policy, plan, program or arrangement by CTS or any subsidiary, then CTS will itself pay or provide for such equivalent coverage to the Executive, and his or her dependents and beneficiaries.  All payments of benefits under the CTS’ medical and dental programs or other reimbursements shall be made no later than December 31 of the year following the year in which the Executive incurs the related expenses.  In no event will the benefits and reimbursements provided by CTS in one taxable year affect the amount of expenses or reimbursements that CTS is obligated to pay, or in-kind benefits to be provided in any other taxable year.
 
 
3.
Outplacement Assistance.   Reimbursement of an amount up to $15,000   for outplacement services that are obtained following Executive’s termination, by a firm selected by the Executive; provided, however, that in no event shall expenses incurred after December 31 of the second year following the year in which the Executive’s Separation from Service occurs be eligible for reimbursement hereunder, and all reimbursements hereunder shall be paid to Executive no later than December 31 of the third year following the year in which the Executive’s Separation from Service occurs.
 
C.
Tier 1 Severance Benefits.   Tier 1 Executives shall be eligible for the following Severance Benefits:

 
1.
Severance Pay.   Severance Pay equal to 12 months of his or her base salary in effect immediately prior to termination, payable in accord with the provisions of paragraph B(1) above.

 
2.
Health and Dental Insurance.   The continuing availability of medical and dental benefits for a period of 12 months following the date of the Executive’s termination, otherwise on the same terms of paragraph B(2) above.

 
3.
Outplacement Assistance.   Reimbursement of an amount up to $30,000   for outplacement services that are obtained following Executive’s termination, otherwise on the same terms of paragraph B(3) above.

D.
President and Chief Executive Officer Severance Benefits.   The President and Chief Executive Officer shall be eligible for the following Severance Benefits:

 
1.
Severance Pay.   Two times the sum of (a) Executive’s base salary in effect at the time of termination of employment and (b) an amount equal to Executive’s target annual incentive compensation for the calendar year ending prior to the date of termination of employment under this subparagraph.   Such payment will be paid in a single lump sum cash payment on the 60 th day after the date of the Executive’s Separation from Service.

 
2.
Health and Dental Insurance.   The continuing availability of medical and dental benefits for a period of twenty four (24) months following the date of the Executive’s termination, otherwise on the same terms of paragraph B(2) above.

 
3.
Outstanding Time-Based Equity Awards.   To the extent permitted by CTS’ equity plans, the vesting of any outstanding unvested time-based restricted stock units or other equity awards granted to Executive under CTS’ equity plans will be accelerated and such equity awards will be fully vested as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment and payable in accordance with their existing terms.

 
4.
Outstanding Performance-Based Equity Awards.   For any outstanding unvested performance-based restricted stock units, outstanding unvested performance shares, or any other outstanding unvested equity incentive available under any then-current performance-based equity program, to the extent permitted by CTS’ equity plans, such awards will become non-forfeitable as of the date of the Executive’s termination of employment.  At the end of the applicable performance period, CTS shall calculate the degree to which the awards were earned based on actual performance, and then settle any earned awards on a pro-rata basis, in accordance with the portion of the actual performance period that elapsed prior to the Executive’s termination, in accordance with the existing terms of such awards.

 
5.
Outplacement Assistance.   Reimbursement of an amount up to $30,000   for outplacement services that are obtained following Executive’s termination, otherwise on the same terms of paragraph B(3) above.

 
6.
Notice of Retirement.   In the event the President and Chief Executive Officer gives the Board of Directors at least twelve (12) months formal notice of his intent to terminate his employment voluntarily due to his retirement and maintains continuous employment through such twelve month period, upon retirement, the Executive will be entitled to the Severance Benefits described in paragraphs (2), (3), and (4) of this Section.
 
E.
No Duplication of Benefits .   In general, it is the intent of the parties that Severance Benefits under this policy shall not duplicate substantially similar payments under any other agreement, policy, plan or arrangement.  Executive shall not be eligible for benefits under CTS' Severance Pay-Exempt Salaried Employees Policy or any successor policy.

In the event that an Executive is eligible under the terms of the change-in-control Severance Agreement entered into by CTS and the Executive to receive Severance Compensation, as defined in the Change-in-Control Agreement, Executive shall not be eligible to receive Severance Benefits under this policy.  The relationship between eligibility for benefits under this Agreement and eligibility for benefits under any successor agreement to the Change-in-Control Agreement shall be determined by reference to such successor agreement.
 
2

F.
Section 409A.

 
1.
The provisions of this paragraph F shall apply notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this policy.  In the event of any inconsistency between a provision in this paragraph F and another provision in this policy, the provision in this paragraph F shall be the controlling provision.

 
2.
The intent of the parties is that payments and benefits under this policy comply with or be exempt from Section 409A and, accordingly, to the maximum extent permitted, this policy shall be interpreted to be in compliance therewith.  To the extent that there is a material risk that any payments under this policy may result in the imposition of an additional tax to the Executive under Section 409A, CTS will reasonably cooperate with the Executive to amend this policy such that payments hereunder comply with Section 409A without materially changing the economic value of this policy to either party.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, CTS does not guarantee to the Executive any specific tax consequences relating to entitlement to or receipt of payments or benefits pursuant to the policy.  The Executive shall be solely responsible for payment of any taxes or penalties in connection with this policy.

 
3.
Each payment and benefit to be made or provided to the Executive pursuant to this policy will be considered to be a separate payment and not one of a series of payments for purposes of Section 409A.  Coverages provided during one taxable year will not affect the degree to which coverages will be provided in any other taxable year.

 
4.
If the Executive is a “specified employee” (within the meaning of Section 409A and determined pursuant to the identification methodology selected by CTS from time to time) on the Executive’s Separation from Service and if any portion of the payments or benefits to be received by the Executive upon Separation from Service would be considered deferred compensation (within the meaning of Section 409A) the payment or provision of which is required to be delayed pursuant to the six-month delay rule set forth in Section 409A in order to avoid taxes or penalties under Section 409A, then CTS will not pay or provide the amount or benefit on the otherwise scheduled date, but such payments or benefits will instead be accumulated and paid or made available on the earlier of (a) the first day of the seventh month following the Executive’s Separation from Service and (b) the Executive’s death.  Any remaining payments and benefits due under this policy shall be paid or provided in accordance with the normal payment dates specified for them herein.

 
5.
Any reimbursement provided under this policy will be made no later than December 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which the related expense was incurred; provided, however, that in no event will the reimbursements in one taxable year affect the amount of reimbursements in any other taxable year, nor shall the right to reimbursement be subject to liquidation or exchange for another benefit.
 
G.
Release.   In order to receive the Severance Benefits contemplated by this policy, the Executive must execute and return to CTS a valid and binding release.  The release shall contain such terms and conditions as are satisfactory to CTS, including, but not limited to, the release of any and all claims that the Executive may then have, as of the signing of such release, against the corporation, its employees, officers, and directors.  The Executive generally shall have up to twenty one (21) days following the date the release is given to the Executive to sign and return the release to CTS.  Further, the Executive shall have seven (7) calendar days after delivery of the release to CTS to revoke the release by sending written notice to that effect to the corporation’s Secretary, Vice President, and General Counsel.

H.
Competitive Activity and Non-solicitation.   During a period ending one year following the Executive’s Separation from Service, if the Executive has received severance benefits under this policy, the Executive will not, without the prior written consent of CTS, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld, engage in the management of any business enterprise if such enterprise engages in substantial and direct competition with CTS.  In addition, for such one year period, the Executive shall not, either alone or in association with others (i) solicit, or facilitate any organization with which the Executive is associated in soliciting, any CTS employee or any of its subsidiaries to leave the employ of the company or any of its subsidiaries; (ii) solicit for employment, hire or engage as an independent contractor, or facilitate any organization with which the Executive is associated in soliciting for employment, hire or engagement as an independent contractor, any person who was employed by CTS or any of its subsidiaries at any time during the term of the Executive's employment with the Company or any of its subsidiaries; provided , however that this clause shall not apply to any individual whose employment with CTS or any of its subsidiaries has been terminated for a minimum of one year preceding any such solicitation.
I.
Amendment and Termination.   CTS’ Board of Directors has the right in its sole and absolute discretion to amend this policy or terminate it prospectively, provided that this policy may not be amended by the Board in any manner which is materially adverse to any named executive officers without the Executive’s written consent.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, CTS’ Board may amend this policy at any time to reflect changes required by the Internal Revenue Code, or other federal or state laws.    Notwithstanding any provision of this policy to the contrary, this policy will remain in effect until, and will not be revoked or earlier terminated prior to three (3) years from its effective date.
 
 
J.
Excess Parachute Payments - All payments and benefits under this policy are subject to the Excess Parachute Payment limitation described in Addendum A of this policy.


 
 
3

 

ISSUED AND APPROVED BY:
 
 
         
/s/ James L. Cummins
   
 
 
James L. Cummins
   
 
 
Senior Vice President Administration
   
 
 
 
 
 
         
/s/ Vinod M. Khilnani
   
/s/ Patricia K. Collawn
 
Vinod M. Khilnani
   
Patricia K. Collawn
 
Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer
   
Chairperson
CTS Corporation
Compensation Committee
 



 


 
4

 

ADDENDUM A

LIMITATION ON EXCESS PARACHUTE PAYMENTS

Notwithstanding any provision of this policy to the contrary, if any amount or benefit to be paid or provided under this policy would be an “Excess Parachute Payment,” within the meaning of Section 280G of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 (or any successor provision thereto), but for the application of this sentence, then the payments and benefits to be paid or provided under this policy will be reduced to the minimum extent necessary (but in no event to less than zero) so that no portion of any such payment or benefit, as so reduced, constitutes an Excess Parachute Payment; provided , however , that the foregoing reduction will be made only if and to the extent that such reduction would result in an increase in the aggregate payment and benefits to be provided, determined on an after-tax basis (taking into account the excise tax imposed pursuant to Section 4999 of the Code, or any successor provision thereto, any tax imposed by any comparable provision of state law, and any applicable federal, state and local income and employment taxes).  Whether requested by the Executive or the company, the determination of whether any reduction in such payments or benefits to be provided under this policy or otherwise is required pursuant to the preceding sentence will be made at the expense of the company by the company’s independent accountants.  The fact that the Executive’s right to payments or benefits may be reduced by reason of the limitations contained in this addendum will not of itself limit or otherwise affect any other rights of the Executive other than pursuant to this policy.  The company shall effect such reduction in the order in which payments are due to be paid or provided, beginning with the latest payment.


 
5

 

ADDENDUM B
DEFINITIONS
 
 

 
 
“Cause” means that the Executive:
 
 
(i)  has been convicted of a criminal violation involving fraud, embezzlement or theft in connection with his duties or in the course of his employment with CTS or any Subsidiary;

 
(ii)  has intentionally and wrongfully damaged property of CTS or any Subsidiary;

 
(iii)  has intentionally and wrongfully disclosed secret processes, trade secrets or confidential information of CTS or any Subsidiary; or

 
(iv)  has intentionally and wrongfully engaged in any Competitive Activity.

 
“Change in Control” has the meaning ascribed to such term in CTS’ prototype Severance Agreement.

 
 
“Code” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

 
“Disability” means that the Executive has become permanently disabled within the meaning of, and has begun to actually receive disability benefits pursuant to, CTS’ long-term disability plan in effect for, or applicable to, the Executive.  A conclusive determination of the Executive's permanent disability shall occur when the Executive is placed on Permanent Inactive Disability Status under the CTS Corporation Pension Plan or a similar plan in which Executive is then a participant.

 
“Gross or Willful Misconduct” means willful neglect by the Executive of the duties of the Executive or the Executive's gross dishonesty which materially prejudices the interests of CTS.

 
“Section 409A” means Section 409A of the Code.  References in this policy to Section 409A are intended to include any proposed, temporary, or final regulations, or any other guidance, promulgated with respect to Section 409A by the U.S. Department of the Treasury or the Internal Revenue Service.

 
“Subsidiary” means an entity in which CTS directly or indirectly beneficially owns 50% or more of the outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors.


 
6

 


CTS Corporation
Form 10-Q
Third Quarter 2009



EXHIBIT (31)(a)

CERTIFICATION

I, Vinod M. Khilnani, certify that:

1.  
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of CTS Corporation:

2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a)  
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)  
designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statement for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c)  
evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusion about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)  
disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

(a)  
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b)  
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 
 
       
Date: October 28, 2009
By:
/s/  Vinod M. Khilnani  
    Vinod M. Khilnani  
    Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer  
       

 

CTS Corporation
Form 10-Q
Third Quarter 2009



EXHIBIT (31)(b)

CERTIFICATION


I, Donna L. Belusar, certify that:

1.  
I have reviewed this quarterly report on Form 10-Q of CTS Corporation:

2.  
Based on my knowledge, this report does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which such statements were made, not misleading with respect to the period covered by this report;

3.  
Based on my knowledge, the financial statements, and other financial information included in this report, fairly present in all material respects the financial condition, results of operations and cash flows of the registrant as of, and for, the periods presented in this report;

4.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I are responsible for establishing and maintaining disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(e) and 15d-15(e)) and internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Exchange Act Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f)) for the registrant and have:

(a)  
designed such disclosure controls and procedures, or caused such disclosure controls and procedures to be designed under our supervision, to ensure that material information relating to the registrant, including its consolidated subsidiaries, is made known to us by others within those entities, particularly during the period in which this report is being prepared;

(b)  
designed such internal control over financial reporting, or caused such internal control over financial reporting to be designed under our supervision, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statement for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles;

(c)  
evaluated the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures and presented in this report our conclusion about the effectiveness of the disclosure controls and procedures, as of the end of the period covered by this report based on such evaluation; and

(d)  
disclosed in this report any change in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant’s most recent fiscal quarter (the registrant’s fourth fiscal quarter in the case of an annual report) that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting; and

5.  
The registrant’s other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant’s auditors and the audit committee of registrant’s board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent function):

(a)  
all significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant’s ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

(b)  
any fraud, whether or not material, that involves management or other employees who have a significant role in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

 
 
       
Date: October 28, 2009
By:
/s/  Donna L. Belusar  
    Donna L. Belusar  
    Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer  
       
 

 

CTS Corporation
Form 10-Q
Third Quarter 2009




EXHIBIT (32)(a)




CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002





In connection with the quarterly report of CTS Corporation (the Company) on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 27, 2009, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the Report), the undersigned officer of the Company certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350, as adopted pursuant to ss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)  
the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2)  
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 
 
 
 
 
       
Date: October 28, 2009
By:
/s/  Vinod M. Khilnani  
    Vinod M. Khilnani  
    Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer  
       


 


A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to CTS Corporation and will be retained by CTS Corporation and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.



CTS Corporation
Form 10-Q
Third Quarter 2009



EXHIBIT (32)(b)




CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350,
AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002





In connection with the quarterly report of CTS Corporation (the Company) on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 27, 2009, as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (the Report), the undersigned officer of the Company certifies, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. ss. 1350, as adopted pursuant to ss. 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

(1)  
the Report fully complies with the requirements of Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934; and

(2)  
the information contained in the Report fairly presents, in all material respects, the financial condition and results of operations of the Company.

 
 
       
Date: October 28, 2009
By:
/s/  Donna L. Belusar  
    Donna L. Belusar  
    Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer  
       

 
 

 


A signed original of this written statement required by Section 906 has been provided to CTS Corporation and will be retained by CTS Corporation and furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff upon request.