Commission file number 000-06920

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code:

(408) 727-5555

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known, seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes  þ      No  o

 

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act.  Yes  o      No  þ

 

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  þ      No  o

 

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of this Form 10-K or any amendment to this Form 10-K.   o

 

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

 

(Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

 

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

 

Aggregate market value of the voting stock held by non-affiliates of the registrant as of April 25, 2008, based upon the closing sale price reported by the NASDAQ Global Select Market on that date: $25,798,127,144

 

Number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s Common Stock, $.01 par value, as of November 21, 2008: 1,328,871,245

 

DOCUMENTS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE:

 

Portions of the definitive Proxy Statement for Applied Materials, Inc.’s Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on March 10, 2009 are incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.

 

 

Caution Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

 

Certain information in this Annual Report on Form 10-K (report or Form 10-K) of Applied Materials, Inc. and its subsidiaries (Applied or the Company), including “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations” in Item 7, is forward-looking in nature. All statements in this report, including those made by the management of Applied, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Examples of forward-looking statements include statements regarding Applied’s future financial results, operating results, cash flows and cash deployment strategies, business strategies, costs, products, working capital, competitive positions, management’s plans and objectives for future operations, research and development, acquisitions and joint ventures, growth opportunities, customer contracts, investments, liquidity, declaration of dividends, and legal proceedings, as well as market conditions and industry trends. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s estimates, projections and assumptions as of the date hereof and include the assumptions that underlie such statements. Forward-looking statements may contain words such as “may,” “will,” “should,” “could,” “would,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential” and “continue,” the negative of these terms, or other comparable terminology. Any expectations based on these forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties and other important factors, including those discussed in Item 1A, “Risk Factors,” below and elsewhere in this report. Other risks and uncertainties may be disclosed in Applied’s prior Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings. These and many other factors could affect Applied’s future financial condition and operating results and could cause actual results to differ materially from expectations based on forward-looking statements made in this report or elsewhere by Applied or on its behalf. Applied undertakes no obligation to revise or update any forward-looking statements.

 

The following information should be read in conjunction with the Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included in this report.

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.

 

FORM 10-K FOR THE FISCAL YEAR ENDED OCTOBER 26, 2008

 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

The transistor is another key area of the chip where semiconductor manufacturers are improving their device designs to enhance speed. Applied has the industry’s largest portfolio of technically advanced products for building smaller and faster transistors. One example is strain engineering, a technique that stretches or compresses the space between atoms, allowing electrical current to flow more quickly, thus greatly enhancing chip performance. Multiple strain films are typically used in advanced devices since they have an additive effect on increasing transistor speed. Applied has a comprehensive portfolio of systems to enable these applications using CVD and epitaxial deposition technologies.

 

Most chips currently are fabricated using 65 nanometer (nm) and larger linewidth dimensions, although Applied is also working with customers on more advanced nodes. Major chipmakers have announced that they will be integrating new high dielectric constant (high-k) and metal materials and processes in their transistor gate structures to increase chip performance and reduce power consumption. Applied has a comprehensive portfolio of fully characterized processes for building these high-k/metal gates. These solutions include an integrated dielectric gate stack tool that combines four critical processes in a single system, a portfolio of metallization technologies using ALD and PVD, and an innovative high temperature etch system.

 

Most of Applied’s semiconductor equipment products are single-wafer systems with multiple process chambers attached to a base platform. This enables each wafer to be processed separately in its own environment, allowing precise process control, while the system’s multiple chambers enable simultaneous, high productivity manufacturing. Applied sells most of its single-wafer, multi-chamber systems on four basic platforms: the Centura ^® , the Endura ^® , the Producer ^® and the Vantage ^® . These platforms support ALD, CVD, PVD, etch and RTP technologies.

 

Over time, the semiconductor industry has migrated to increasingly larger wafers to build chips. The predominant or common wafer size used today for volume production of advanced chips is 300 millimeter (mm), or 12-inch, wafers. Applied offers a comprehensive range of 300mm systems. Applied also offers earlier-generation 200mm systems, as well as products and services to support all of its systems, which are reported under its Applied Global Services segment.

 

The following summarizes Applied’s portfolio of products and their associated process technology areas reported under its Silicon segment.

 

Deposition

 

Deposition is a fundamental step in fabricating a chip. During deposition, layers of dielectric (an insulator), barrier, or electrically conductive (typically metal) films are deposited or grown on a wafer. Applied currently provides equipment to perform three types of deposition: ALD, CVD and PVD. In addition, Applied’s RTP systems can be used to perform certain types of dielectric deposition.

 

Atomic Layer Deposition

 

ALD is an advanced technology in which atoms are deposited one layer at a time to build chip structures. This technology enables customers to fabricate thin films of either conducting or insulating material with uniform coverage in sub-nanometer sized structures. Applied offers ALD chambers for depositing tungsten and high-k/metal gate films. The Applied Centura iSprint ^tm Tungsten system (iSprint) combines an ALD chamber, which deposits a tungsten nucleation film, with a CVD tungsten bulk fill process in one system. The iSprint is used to form contact structures that connect the transistors to the wiring areas of the chip. Applied’s high-k/metal gate ALD process is part of the Centura Advanced Gate Stack system, which enables a single integrated solution for building high-k/metal gate structures.

 

Chemical Vapor Deposition

 

CVD is used by customers to deposit dielectric and metal films on a wafer. During the CVD process, gases that contain atoms of the material to be deposited react on the wafer surface, forming a thin film of solid material. Films deposited by CVD may be silicon oxide, single-crystal epitaxial silicon, amorphous silicon, silicon nitride, dielectric anti-reflective coatings, low k dielectric (for highly efficient insulating materials), aluminum, titanium,

titanium nitride, polysilicon, tungsten, refractory metals or silicides. Applied offers the following CVD products and technologies:

 

The Applied Producer CVD platform  — This high-throughput platform features Twin-Chamber ^® modules that have two single-wafer process chambers per unit. Up to three Twin-Chamber modules can be mounted on each Producer platform, giving it a simultaneous processing capacity of six wafers. Many dielectric CVD processes can be performed on this platform. The highest productivity model of this system is the Applied Producer GT, which has achieved rapid customer acceptance due to its fast wafer handling performance and compact design.

 

Low k Dielectric Films  — Low k dielectric materials are used in copper-based chip designs to further improve interconnect speed. Using conventional CVD equipment, the Applied Producer Black Diamond ^® family of low k systems provides customers with a proven, cost-effective way to integrate a variety of low k films into advanced interconnect structures. To further increase the performance of the complete multi-layer dielectric structure, Applied offers a line of BLOK ^tm (barrier low k) films deposited with the Producer system.

 

Lithography-Enabling Solutions  — Applied offers several technologies on the Producer system to help chipmakers extend their current 193nm lithography tools, including a line of Applied APF ^tm (advanced patterning film) films and Applied DARC ^® (dielectric anti-reflective coating) films. Together, they provide a film stack with the precise dimensional control and compatibility needed to cost-effectively pattern nano-scale features without additional integration complexity.

 

Gap Fill Films  — There are many steps during the chipmaking process in which very small and deep, or high aspect ratio (HAR), structures must be filled void-free with a dielectric film. Many of these applications include the deposition of silicon oxides in substrate isolation structures, contacts and interconnects. The Applied Centura Ultima HDP-CVD ^® (high-density plasma CVD) system has been an industry workhorse, providing multi-generational gap-fill capability for both logic and memory devices. The Company’s Applied Producer HARP (high aspect ratio process) provides customers with device scaling capability using sub-atmospheric CVD (SACVD) technology. In 2008, the Company introduced the Applied Producer eHARP, which extends gap-fill capability to 32nm and below by enabling the seamless, void-free fill of more tightly packed HAR structures.

 

Strain Engineering Solutions  — The Applied Producer HARP system also plays a key role in enhancing transistor performance, enabling chipmakers to boost chip speed by depositing strain inducing dielectric films. Offering the industry’s first integrated stress nitride deposition and ultraviolet (UV) cure solution, the Applied Producer Celera CVD delivers benchmark levels of high-stress tensile silicon nitride films. The Company also offers the Applied Centura SiNgenPlus low pressure CVD system for low temperature silicon nitride films. Used together, and in conjunction with silicon germanium (SiGe) films using Applied’s epitaxial deposition technologies, these systems can provide additive strain engineering benefits.

 

Epitaxial Deposition  — Epitaxial silicon (epitaxy or epi) is a layer of pure silicon grown in a uniform crystalline structure on the wafer to form a high quality base for the device circuitry. Epi technology is used in an increasing number of integrated circuit devices in both the wafer substrate and transistor areas of a chip to enhance speed. The Applied Centura Epi system integrates pre- and post-epi processes on the same system to improve film quality and reduce production costs. This system is also used for SiGe epi technology, which reduces power usage and increases speed in certain types of advanced chips. For emerging transistor designs, the Applied Centura RP Epi system offers selective epi processes to enable faster transistor switching through strain engineering techniques.

 

Polysilicon Deposition  — Polysilicon is a type of silicon used to form portions of the transistor structure within the integrated circuit device. The Applied Centura Polygen ^tm LPCVD system is a single-wafer, multi-chamber product that deposits thin polysilicon films at high temperatures to create transistor gate structures. To address the challenging requirements of shrinking gate dimensions, the Applied Centura DPN Gate Stack system integrates chambers for decoupled plasma nitridation (DPN), RTP anneal and polysilicon deposition on one platform to enable superior film quality and material properties.

Aluminum Deposition  — Aluminum (Al) continues to be used by several memory manufacturers for interconnects. The Applied Endura iFill Al CVD/PVD system is used for building high-density interconnects in flash and DRAM memory chips. This advanced process, for sub-90nm generations, enables customers to replace tungsten structures with aluminum to achieve faster chips with fewer steps and less cost.

 

Tungsten Deposition  — Tungsten is used in the contact area of a chip that connects the transistors to the wiring circuitry. In aluminum-based devices, tungsten is also used in the structures that connect the multiple layers of aluminum wiring. Applied has two products for depositing tungsten: the Applied Centura Sprint ^® Tungsten CVD system for 90nm and below devices and the Applied Centura iSprint ALD/CVD system for more advanced applications. The latter product combines ALD technology and CVD chambers on the same platform.

 

Physical Vapor Deposition

 

PVD is a physical process in which atoms of a gas, such as argon, are accelerated toward a metal target. The metal atoms chip off, or sputter away, and are then deposited on the wafer. Applied leads the industry in PVD technology with its Applied Endura PVD system. This system offers a broad range of advanced deposition processes, including aluminum, aluminum alloys, cobalt, titanium/titanium nitride, tantalum/tantalum nitride, tungsten/tungsten nitride, nickel, vanadium and copper.

 

The Applied Endura CuBS (copper barrier/seed) PVD system is widely used by customers for fabricating copper-based chips. Using PVD technology, the system deposits a tantalum-based barrier film that prevents copper material from entering other areas of the device and then a copper seed layer that primes the structure for the subsequent deposition of bulk copper. This system also features Activ Pre-clean technology to provide clean film interfaces while preserving the k-value integrity of the structure.

 

Etch

 

Etching is used many times throughout the integrated circuit manufacturing process to selectively remove material from the surface of a wafer. Before etching begins, the wafer is coated with a light-sensitive film, called photoresist. A photolithography process then projects the circuit pattern onto the wafer. Etching removes material only from areas dictated by the photoresist pattern. Applied offers a wide range of systems for etching dielectric, metal and silicon films to meet the requirements of sub-100nm processing.

 

For dielectric applications, the Applied Centura eMax ^® system etches a broad range of dielectric films in the contact and interconnect regions of the chip. Applied’s Producer Etch system utilizes the Company’s Twin-Chamber Producer platform to target cost-sensitive dielectric etch applications in 90nm and below design geometries. To address advanced low k etch applications, the Applied Centura Enabler ^® Etch system performs etch, strip and clean steps in a single chamber. The Enabler’s all-in-one capability streamlines the process flow for advanced chip designs and significantly reduces operating costs. The Applied Centura Carina system uses innovative, high-temperature technology to deliver the etch capability essential for scaling logic and memory devices with high-k/metal gates at 45nm and below.

 

The Applied Centura AdvantEdge ^tm Silicon Etch system offers chipmakers high precision gate etching for advanced-generation devices. The Applied Centura Mariana Trench Etch system provides customers with the capability to scale memory devices by etching 80:1 aspect ratio structures. For etching metals, the Applied Opus AdvantEdge Metal Etch uses an optimized 5-chamber platform configuration that enables customers to extend aluminum interconnect technology and productivity to sub-70nm dimensions for flash and DRAM memory applications.

 

Rapid Thermal Processing

 

RTP is a process in which a wafer is subjected to rapid bursts of intense heat that can take the wafer from room temperature to more than 1,000 degrees Celsius in less than 10 seconds. A rapid thermal process is used mainly for modifying the properties of deposited films. The Applied Centura Radiance ^® Plus and Applied Vantage RadOx ^tm RTP systems feature advanced RTP technology with differing platform designs. While the multi-chamber Centura

platform offers exceptional process flexibility, the streamlined two-chamber Vantage platform is designed for dedicated high-volume manufacturing. These single-wafer RTP systems are also used for growing high quality oxide and oxynitride films, deposition steps that traditional large batch furnaces can no longer achieve with the necessary precision and control. With its proprietary radical-based oxidation process, the Applied Vantage RadOx system deposits high-performance transistor gate oxides with high productivity and low operating cost for flash memory applications.

 

Chemical Mechanical Planarization

 

The CMP process removes material from a wafer to create a flat (planarized) surface. This process allows subsequent photolithography patterning steps to occur with greater accuracy and enables film layers to build with minimal height variations. The 300mm Applied Reflexion ^® LK system leads the industry in CMP technology with important features such as integrated cleaning, film measurement and process control capabilities.

 

Metrology and Wafer Inspection

 

Applied offers several products for measuring features and inspecting defects on the wafer during various stages of the fabrication process. These systems enable customers to characterize and control critical dimension (CD) and defect issues, especially at advanced generation technology nodes.

 

Critical Dimension and Defect Review Scanning Electron Microscopes (CD-SEMs and DR-SEMs)

 

Scanning electron microscopes (SEMs) use an electron beam to form images of microscopic features of a patterned wafer at extremely high magnification. Applied’s SEM products provide customers with full automation, along with the high accuracy and sensitivity needed for measuring very small CDs. The Applied VeritySEM ^® Metrology system uses proprietary SEM imaging technology to enable precise control of the lithography and etching processes. The VeritySEM measures CDs with less than 5 angstrom precision, a requirement for 45nm device production, and incorporates automation and software advancements for significantly higher throughput in production. Applied’s OPC Check ^tm software for the VeritySEM system performs automated qualification of OPC-based (optical proximity correction) chip designs, significantly reducing mask (see Mask Making section below) verification time over conventional manual methods.

 

DR-SEMs review defects on the wafer (such as particles, scratches or residues) that are first located by a defect detection system and then classify the defects to identify their source. The high-throughput, fully automatic Applied SEMVision ^tm Defect Analysis products enable customers to use this technology as an integral part of their production lines to analyze defects as small as 30nm with industry-leading throughput. The Applied SEMVision FIB integrates advanced defect review SEM capability with automated focused ion beam (FIB) technology in one system. The FIB provides a cross-sectional view of the defects reviewed by the SEM, enabling chipmakers to analyze the defects in minutes as part of their in-line review process.

 

Wafer Inspection

 

Using laser-based technology, defects can be detected on patterned wafers (wafers with printed circuit images) as they move between processing steps. Defects include particles, open circuit lines, and shorts between lines. Incorporating key advances in imaging technology, the Applied ComPlus ^tm Inspection system, for darkfield applications, detects defects in devices with design rules of 65nm and below with the high speed required for customers’ volume production lines. The Applied UVision ^tm Inspection system is the industry’s first laser-based, three dimensional brightfield tool. Utilizing multi-beam, deep ultraviolet (DUV) laser illumination and high efficiency detectors, the UVision system uncovers previously undetectable defects on the wafer, enabling customers to rapidly resolve defect issues and achieve greater chip yields.

 

Mask Making

 

Masks are used by photolithography systems to transfer microscopic circuit designs onto wafers. Since an imperfection in a mask may be replicated on the wafer, the mask must be virtually defect-free. Applied provides systems for etching, cleaning and inspecting masks.

The Applied Tetra III Advanced Reticle Etch system, an advanced etch tool for fabricating leading-edge masks, is used by virtually every advanced mask maker in the world for 45nm photomask development and production. In 2008, the Company introduced the Applied Tetra ^tm Reticle Clean, the industry’s first wet clean system to provide damage-free, nearly 100 percent particle removal efficiency for 32nm and beyond photomasks. The groundbreaking Applied Aera2 ^tm Mask Inspection system, also announced in 2008, allows customers to meet the most critical defect detection challenges of advanced masks. Using sophisticated aerial imaging technology, the Aera2 is the first mask inspection system that allows users to immediately see how the pattern on the mask will appear on the wafer, revealing only the defects most likely to print and significantly reducing inspection time.

 

Applied Global Services Segment

 

The Applied Global Services segment encompasses products and services designed to improve the performance and productivity, and reduce the environmental impact, of the fab operations of semiconductor, LCD and solar PV manufacturers. The in-depth expertise and best known methods of Applied’s extensive global support infrastructure enable Applied to continuously support customers’ production requirements. Approximately 2,700 trained customer engineers and process support engineers are deployed in more than a dozen countries. These engineers are usually located at or near customers’ fab sites and service over 22,000 installed Applied systems, as well as non-Applied systems. Applied offers the following general types of services and products:

 

Fab Services  — Applied offers a portfolio of fab-wide operations services to maintain and optimize customers’ fabrication facilities. Applied Genuine Parts are spare parts manufactured to Applied’s strict technical specifications and quality standards. Applied Services provides customers with optimized tool performance for improved total cost of ownership and a higher return on investment. Through its Metron Chamber Performance Services unit, Applied is the industry’s leading provider of critical parts cleaning, coating refurbishment and analytical testing capabilities. Applied’s Advanced Wafer Reclaim Center in Taiwan uses state-of-the-art manufacturing systems and software to extend the lifecycle of 300mm silicon test wafers by over 45% and to reduce customers’ costs.

 

In 2008, the Company introduced its SunFab ^tm Performance Service program, a comprehensive, integrated support solution for Applied’s SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line for producing large-size solar PV panels, discussed further under the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment. The first service product of its kind for the solar industry, the program enables customers to quickly ramp to volume production while optimizing the performance, cost and output of their SunFab lines.

 

Mature Technology Services  — Applied offers a wide range of products and services to extend the productive life of 200mm semiconductor fabs, including new and remanufactured 200mm equipment, system enhancements and fab transition services. Designed to maximize productivity and lower cost of ownership, these products also assist customers in implementing green manufacturing solutions. Applied’s 200mm systems are available in a broad range of production-proven technologies, including CVD, PVD, etch, implant, RTP, CMP, epitaxy, metrology and inspection tools.

 

Automation Systems  — Applied offers automated factory-level and tool-level control software systems for semiconductor, LCD and solar cell manufacturing facilities. These enterprise solutions include manufacturing execution systems (MES) to automate the production of wafers and LCD and solar substrates, advanced process control systems, and scheduling and materials handling control systems. Applied also offers computerized maintenance management systems, performance tracking, and modeling and simulation tools for improving asset utilization. In 2008, Applied introduced its breakthrough E3 equipment engineering system solution that uniquely integrates all critical equipment automation and process control components.

 

Abatement Systems  — Applied’s family of Metron abatement systems is a comprehensive line of environmental solutions for the semiconductor, solar and display industries. These systems include a wide range of point-of-use scrubbing tools including wet, dry, thermal and integrated technologies for reliable, cost-effective abatement of exhaust gases. In 2008, the Company introduced the Marathon S for its SunFab Thin Film line, the only integrated solution for PECVD reactive byproducts.

Display Segment

 

Applied’s AKT subsidiary, reported under the Display segment, designs, manufactures and sells equipment to fabricate thin film transistor LCDs for televisions, computer displays and other consumer-oriented electronic applications. While similarities exist between the technologies utilized in chipmaking and LCD fabrication, the most significant differences are in the size and composition of the substrate. Substrates used to manufacture LCD panels can be more than 70 times larger in area than 300mm wafers and are made of glass, while wafers are made of silicon. This technology for deposition on large-size substrates is also used in the Applied SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line.

 

Applied supplies a wide range of systems that process and test different glass substrate sizes. For fabricating the transistor layer of these panels, the Company offers a line of plasma-enhanced CVD (PECVD) systems that use multi-chamber platform architecture to deposit dielectric and semiconducting films. The AKT-PiVot ^tm 55KV system employs high-productivity, cost-efficient PVD technology to deposit metal and transparent conductive oxide films on the substrate. For manufacturing the color filter of LCD panels, Applied offers the AKT-NEW ARISTO ^tm 2200 for transparent conductive oxide film deposition.

 

Complementing these systems, Applied also offers a line of electron beam test (EBT) systems for testing substrates during production for defective pixels and other imperfections. Featuring one of the industry’s fastest and most accurate pixel test technologies with the lowest operating cost, the EBT systems’ non-contact test technology enables the safe testing of high-value LCD TV panels without damaging or scratching the display.

 

To meet growing consumer demand for larger, more cost-efficient LCD TVs, LCD manufacturers have moved to increasingly large-sized substrates. Applied’s latest generation (Gen) 10 systems can process substrates sized at approximately 2.85 x 3.05 meters, with each substrate enabling the production of up to six 65-inch LCD TV screens. These Gen-10 systems include the AKT-90K PECVD and the Gen-10 AKT-90K EBT products, announced in fiscal 2008.

 

Energy and Environmental Solutions Segment

 

The Energy and Environmental Solutions segment includes manufacturing solutions for the generation and conservation of energy. Applied entered the solar PV market in 2006, announcing its objective to lower the overall cost per watt of solar electricity to parity with that of electricity generated by other sources such as the burning of fossil fuels. Applied offers manufacturing solutions for both wafer-based crystalline silicon (c-Si) and glass-based thin film applications to enable customers to increase the conversion efficiency and yields of solar PV devices.

 

In fiscal 2008, Applied expanded its capabilities and opportunities in the c-Si technology sector through its acquisition of Baccini S.p.A. (Baccini), a leading supplier of automated metallization and test systems for c-Si solar PV cells. These products, combined with Applied’s suite of silicon wafering and deposition systems, have made Applied the leading supplier of c-Si manufacturing systems worldwide. A key benefit of these systems is that they offer customers a way to reduce silicon consumption and cost by using ultra-thin substrate wafers.

 

For thin film applications, Applied developed the Applied SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line, which is the world’s only integrated production line for manufacturing thin film silicon solar modules using 5.7 square meter (m ² ) glass substrates. These ultra-large panels, which are approximately four times the size of thin film solar panels offered by others in the industry, are intended for large-scale applications such as solar farms, utilities and building-integrated solar PV system installations. Applied has entered into multiple contracts for its SunFab line with customers in Europe, Asia and Saudi Arabia. In October 2008, the first of these lines passed final acceptance testing, enabling the customer to begin volume manufacturing of SunFab modules.

 

Products in this segment also include the ATON ^tm in-line deposition system, a large-area platform for high-quality deposition and high-throughput in both c-Si and thin film solar PV cell manufacturing, as well as processes, materials-handling technologies and fabrication services. Other products include roll-to-roll, vacuum web coating systems for high-performance deposition of a range of films on flexible substrates for functional, aesthetic or optical properties. Applied also offers large-area deposition equipment for the production of low-emissivity (low-E) and solar control architectural glass.

Backlog

 

Applied manufactures systems to meet demand represented by order backlog and customer commitments. Backlog consists of: (1) orders for which written authorizations have been accepted and assigned shipment dates are within the next 12 months, or shipment has occurred but revenue has not been recognized; (2) contractual service revenue and maintenance fees to be earned within the next 12 months; and (3) orders for SunFab lines that are anticipated to be recognized as revenue within the next 12 months.

 

Applied’s backlog increased from $3.7 billion at October 28, 2007 to $4.8 billion at October 26, 2008. Applied’s backlog on any particular date is not necessarily indicative of actual sales for any succeeding period. Customers may delay delivery of products or cancel orders prior to shipment, subject to possible cancellation penalties. Backlog adjustments were positive for fiscal 2008 and totaled $140 million, consisting primarily of backlog obtained from acquired companies, partially offset by cancellations and currency adjustments. Delays in delivery schedules and/or a reduction of backlog during any particular period could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business and results of operations.

 

Manufacturing, Raw Materials and Supplies

 

Applied’s manufacturing activities consist primarily of procurement, assembly, test and integration of various proprietary and commercial parts, components and subassemblies (collectively, parts) that are used to manufacture systems. Products in the Silicon segment are manufactured in Austin, Texas and Rehovot, Israel. Remanufactured products in the Applied Global Services segment are produced primarily in Austin, Texas. Products in the Display segment are manufactured in Santa Clara, California; Alzenau, Germany; and Tainan, Taiwan. Products in the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment are manufactured primarily in Alzenau, Germany; Cheseaux, Switzerland; Treviso, Italy; and Santa Clara, California. Manufacturing requires raw materials, including a wide variety of mechanical and electrical components, to be manufactured to Applied’s specifications. Applied uses numerous companies, including contract manufacturers, to supply parts for the manufacture and support of its products. Although Applied makes reasonable efforts to assure that parts are available from multiple qualified suppliers, this is not always possible. Accordingly, some key parts may be obtained from only a single supplier or a limited group of suppliers. Applied seeks to reduce costs and to lower the risks of production and service interruptions, as well as shortages of key parts, by: (1) selecting and qualifying alternate suppliers for key parts; (2) monitoring the financial condition of key suppliers; (3) maintaining appropriate inventories of key parts; (4) qualifying new parts on a timely basis; and (5) locating certain manufacturing operations in areas that are closer to suppliers and customers.

 

Research, Development and Engineering

 

Applied’s long-term growth strategy requires continued development of new products. Applied’s significant investment in research, development and engineering (RD&E) has generally enabled it to deliver new products and technologies before the emergence of strong demand, thus allowing customers to incorporate these products into their manufacturing plans at an early stage in the technology selection cycle. Applied works closely with its global customers to design systems and processes that meet their planned technical and production requirements. Product development and engineering organizations are located primarily in the United States, as well as in Europe, Israel and China. In addition, Applied outsources certain RD&E activities, some of which are performed outside the United States. Process support and customer demonstration laboratories are located in the United States, China, Europe and Israel.

 

Applied’s investments in RD&E for product development and engineering programs to create or improve products and technologies over the last three years were as follows: $1.1 billion (14 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2008, $1.1 billion (12 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2007 and $1.2 billion (13 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2006. Applied has spent an average of 13 percent of net sales in RD&E over the last five years. In addition to RD&E for specific product technologies, Applied maintains ongoing programs for automation control systems, materials research and environmental control that have applications to its products. In fiscal 2008, Applied focused on developing systems for semiconductor customers’ new chip designs with 45nm and below geometries, including systems to enable faster transistors using strain engineering and high-k/metal gate technologies, as well as double

patterning processes that enable customers to extend their existing 193nm lithography tools through additional technology generations. Applied also focused on developing technology for through-silicon vias, an emerging solution for interconnecting three dimensional chip stacks to provide better device performance, lower power consumption and the integration of heterogeneous devices. RD&E also included activities to develop products that enable lower-cost production of solar energy.

 

Marketing and Sales

 

Because of the highly technical nature of its products, Applied markets and sells products worldwide through a direct sales force. Approximately 81 percent of Applied’s fiscal 2008 net sales were to regions outside of the United States. Net sales to customers by region as a percentage of total net sales were: Taiwan 22 percent, North America (primarily the United States) 19 percent, Asia-Pacific (including China) 16 percent, Korea 16 percent, Japan 15 percent, and Europe 12 percent.

 

General economic conditions impact Applied’s business and financial results. From time to time, the markets in which products are sold experience weak economic conditions that may negatively impact sales. Applied’s business is usually not seasonal in nature, but it is cyclical, based on capital equipment investment by major semiconductor, flat panel display, solar PV and other manufacturers. These expenditures depend on many factors, including: anticipated market demand and pricing for semiconductors, LCDs, solar cells and modules, architectural glass and other substrates; the development of new technologies; customers’ factory utilization; capital resources and financing; and global and regional economic conditions.

 

Applied manages its business and reports financial results based on the segments described above, but does not allocate certain sales and marketing costs to the segments.

 

Information on net sales to unaffiliated customers and long-lived assets attributable to Applied’s geographic regions is included in Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. accounted for 16 percent of Applied’s net sales in fiscal 2008, 12 percent of Applied’s net sales in fiscal 2007, and 11 percent of Applied’s net sales in fiscal 2006. These net sales were for products in multiple reportable segments.

 

Competition

 

The industries in which Applied operates are highly competitive and characterized by rapid technological change. Applied’s ability to compete generally depends on its ability to timely commercialize its technology, continually improve its products and develop new products that meet constantly evolving customer requirements. Significant competitive factors include technical capability and differentiation, productivity and cost-effectiveness. The importance of these factors varies according to customers’ needs, including product mix and respective product requirements, applications, and the timing and circumstances of purchasing decisions. Substantial competition exists in all areas of Applied’s business. Competitors range from small companies that compete with a single product and/or in a single region, to global, diversified companies with a range of products. Applied’s ability to compete requires a high level of investment in RD&E and in marketing, sales and global customer support activities. Management believes that many of Applied’s products have strong competitive positions.

 

The competitive environment for each segment is described below:

 

The semiconductor industry has been increasingly driven by consumer demand for lower-cost electronic products with increased capability and, to a lesser extent, by demand for commercial applications. As a result, products within the Silicon segment are subject to rapid changes in customer requirements, including transitions to smaller dimensions, new materials and an increasing number of applications. While certain existing technologies may be adapted to new requirements, some applications create the need for an entirely different technical approach. The rapid pace of technological change can quickly diminish the value of current technologies and products and create opportunities for existing and new competitors. Applied offers a broad portfolio of technically differentiated products that must continuously evolve to satisfy customers’ requirements in order to compete effectively. Applied allocates resources among its many product offerings and therefore may decide not to invest in an individual product to the same degree as competitors who specialize in fewer products. There are many competitors serving the semiconductor manufacturing equipment industry, with some offering a single product line and others offering

multiple product lines. These competitors range from suppliers serving a single region to global, diversified companies.

 

Products and services within the Applied Global Services segment are characterized by demanding worldwide service requirements and a diverse group of numerous competitors. To compete effectively, Applied offers products and services to reduce costs, improve productivity, and lessen the environmental impact of customers’ fab operations. Significant competitive factors include productivity, cost-effectiveness, and the level of technical service and support. The importance of these factors varies according to customers’ needs and the type of products or services offered.

 

Products in the Display segment are subject to strong competition from a number of major competitors. Applied holds established market positions with its technically differentiated LCD manufacturing solutions for PECVD, color filter PVD and array testing, although its market position can change rapidly if it does not meet customers’ requirements. In fiscal 2007, Applied entered the array PVD market with the AKT-PiVot ^tm 55KV PVD system. As a recent entrant to this market, Applied faces significant competition from existing array PVD suppliers.

 

Applied’s products within the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment compete in diverse market areas, including equipment to make solar PV cells and modules, flexible electronics and energy-efficient glass. In solar, Applied offers products for two distinct technologies, c-Si wafer-based and thin film glass-based applications. As a recent entrant to the solar equipment business, Applied competes with many other companies that have more experience with solar applications. Applied also is a recent entrant to the flexible electronics equipment business, which operates in an emerging market sector characterized by diverse types of applications, customer requirements and competitors. Applied’s glass coating equipment faces significant competition from at least one established supplier and another recent market entrant.

 

Patents and Licenses

 

Management believes that Applied’s competitive position significantly depends upon the Company’s research, development, engineering, manufacturing and marketing capabilities, and not just on its patent position. However, protection of Applied’s technological assets by obtaining and enforcing intellectual property rights, including patents, is important. Therefore, Applied’s practice is to file patent applications in the United States and other countries for inventions that Applied considers significant. Applied has a substantial number of patents in the United States and other countries, and additional applications are pending for new inventions. Although Applied does not consider its business materially dependent upon any one patent, the rights of Applied and the products made and sold under its patents, taken as a whole, are a significant element of Applied’s business. In addition to patents, Applied also possesses other intellectual property, including trademarks, know-how, trade secrets and copyrights.

 

Applied enters into patent and technology licensing agreements with other companies when management determines that it is in its best interest to do so. Applied pays royalties under existing patent license agreements for the use, in several of its products, of certain patented technologies that are licensed to Applied for the life of the patents. Applied also receives royalties from licenses granted to third parties. Royalties received from or paid to third parties have not been, and are not expected to be, material to Applied’s consolidated results of operations.

 

In the normal course of business, Applied periodically receives and makes inquiries regarding possible patent infringement. In dealing with such inquiries, it may become necessary or useful for Applied to obtain or grant licenses or other rights. However, there can be no assurance that such licenses or rights will be available to Applied on commercially reasonable terms, or at all. If Applied is not able to resolve or settle claims, obtain necessary licenses on commercially reasonable terms, and/or successfully prosecute or defend its position, Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Environmental Matters

 

Two of Applied’s locations have been designated as environmental cleanup sites. In 1987, the United States Environmental Protection Agency designated one of the locations, in Santa Clara, California, as a Superfund site and named Applied as a “Responsible Party.” Cleanup activities at this site began in 1984 and were substantially

completed in February 2002. The California Regional Water Quality Control Board designated Applied as a “Discharger” with respect to another site in Sunnyvale, California. Applied was named a Discharger upon its acquisition of the property in 1997 solely due to its status as property owner. The prior owners of the site and/or operators who caused the contamination are responsible for performing cleanup and monitoring activities.

 

Applied maintains a number of environmental, health and safety programs that are primarily preventive in nature. As part of these programs, Applied regularly monitors ongoing compliance and periodically conducts investigations of possible contamination.

 

Compliance with federal, state and local provisions regulating the discharge of materials into the environment, remedial agreements and other actions relating to the environment have not had, and are not expected to have, a material effect on Applied’s capital expenditures, competitive position, financial condition or results of operations.

 

The most recent report on Applied’s environmental, health and safety activities can be found on the Company’s website at http://www.appliedmaterials.com/about/environment.html. This report is updated periodically. This website address is intended to be an inactive textual reference only. None of the information on Applied’s website is part of this Form 10-K or is incorporated by reference herein.

 

Employees

 

At October 26, 2008, Applied employed 14,824 regular employees and 586 temporary employees. In the high-technology industry, competition for highly-skilled employees is intense. Applied believes that its future success is highly dependent upon its continued ability to attract, retain and motivate qualified employees. There can be no assurance that Applied will be able to attract, hire, assimilate and retain a sufficient number of qualified employees.

 

 

 

 

Available Information

 

Applied’s website is http://www.appliedmaterials.com. Applied makes available free of charge, on or through its website, its annual, quarterly and current reports, and any amendments to those reports, as soon as reasonably practicable after electronically filing such reports with, or furnishing them to, the SEC. This website address is intended to be an inactive textual reference only. None of the information on Applied’s website is part of this Form 10-K or is incorporated by reference herein.

 

demand; effectively manage its supply chain; and attract, retain and motivate a sufficient number of qualified individuals. If Applied is not able to timely and appropriately adapt to changes in its business environment, Applied’s business, financial condition or results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

 

Applied is exposed to risks associated with the ongoing financial crisis and weakening global economy.

 

The recent severe tightening of the credit markets, turmoil in the financial markets, and weakening global economy are contributing to slowdowns in the industries in which Applied operates, which slowdowns are expected to worsen if these economic conditions are prolonged or deteriorate further. The markets for semiconductors and flat panel displays in particular depend largely on consumer spending. Economic uncertainty exacerbates negative trends in consumer spending and may cause certain Applied customers to push out, cancel, or refrain from placing equipment or service orders, which may affect Applied’s ability to convert backlog to sales and reduce net sales. Difficulties in obtaining capital and deteriorating market conditions may also lead to the inability of some customers to obtain affordable financing, resulting in lower sales for Applied. Customers with liquidity issues may lead to additional bad debt expense for Applied. These conditions may also similarly affect key suppliers, which could affect their ability to deliver parts and result in delays for Applied’s products. Further, these conditions and uncertainty about future economic conditions make it challenging for Applied to forecast its operating results, make business decisions, and identify the risks that may affect its business, financial condition and results of operations. In addition, Applied maintains an investment portfolio that is subject to general credit, liquidity, market and interest rate risks that may be exacerbated by deteriorating financial market conditions and, as a result, the value and liquidity of the investment portfolio could be negatively impacted and lead to impairment. If Applied is not able to timely and appropriately adapt to changes resulting from the difficult macroeconomic environment, Applied’s business, financial condition or results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

 

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes in the various industries in which it operates.

 

The global semiconductor, flat panel display, solar and related industries in which Applied operates are characterized by ongoing changes affecting some or all of these industries, including:

 

 

If Applied does not successfully manage the risks resulting from the ongoing changes occurring in the semiconductor, flat panel display, solar and related industries, its business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes specific to the semiconductor industry.

 

The largest portion of Applied’s revenues historically has come from sales of manufacturing equipment to the global semiconductor industry, and this business historically has also been the most profitable. Changes in the semiconductor industry may lead to a decrease in the percentage of Applied’s revenue attributable to its semiconductor equipment business as a percentage of overall revenue, which in turn can negatively impact the Company’s net income. In addition to the general industry changes described in the preceding risk factor, the semiconductor industry is characterized by ongoing changes particular to that industry, including:

 

 

If Applied does not successfully manage the risks resulting from the ongoing changes occurring in the semiconductor industry, its business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes specific to the flat panel display industry.

 

The global flat panel display industry historically has experienced considerable volatility in capital equipment investment levels, due in part to the limited number of LCD manufacturers and the concentrated nature of LCD end-use applications. Recently, industry growth has depended to a considerable extent on consumer demand for increasingly larger and more advanced TVs. In addition to the general industry changes described above in the third risk factor, the display industry is characterized by ongoing changes particular to that industry. These include technical and financial difficulties associated with transitioning to larger substrate sizes for LCDs, as well as the effect of a slowing rate of transition to larger substrate sizes on capital intensity and product differentiation. If Applied does not successfully manage the risks resulting from the ongoing changes occurring in the display industry, its business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

Applied is exposed to risks as a result of ongoing changes specific to the solar industry.

 

An increasing portion of Applied’s business is in the emerging solar market, which Applied entered in 2006 and which, in addition to the general industry changes described above in the third risk factor, is characterized by ongoing changes particular to the solar industry, including:

 

 

If Applied does not successfully manage the risks resulting from the ongoing changes occurring in the solar industry, its business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Applied must adapt its business and product offerings to respond to competition and rapid technological changes.

 

As Applied operates in a highly competitive environment, its future success depends on many factors, including the effective commercialization and customer acceptance of its nanomanufacturing technology equipment, service and related products. In addition, Applied must successfully execute its growth strategy, including enhancing market share in existing markets, expanding into related markets, cultivating new markets and exceeding industry growth rates, while constantly improving its operational performance. The development, introduction and support of a broadening set of products in more varied competitive environments have grown increasingly complex and expensive over time. Furthermore, new or improved products may involve higher costs and reduced profits. Applied’s success is subject to many risks, including but not limited to its ability to timely, cost-effectively and successfully:

 

 

 

If Applied does not successfully manage these challenges, its business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

The entry into new markets and industries entails additional challenges.

 

As part of its growth strategy, Applied must successfully expand into related or new markets and industries, either with its existing nanomanufacturing technology products or with new products developed internally or obtained through acquisitions. The entry into different markets involves additional challenges, including those arising from:

 

 

If Applied does not successfully manage the risks resulting from its entry into new markets and industries, its business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Applied is exposed to the risks of operating a global business.

 

In fiscal 2008, approximately 81 percent of Applied’s net sales were to customers in regions outside the United States, with a majority of business from customers in Asia. Certain of Applied’s R&D and/or manufacturing facilities, as well as suppliers to Applied, are also located outside the United States, including in China. The global nature of Applied’s business and operations presents challenges, including but not limited to those arising from:

 

 

 

Many of these challenges are present in China, which is experiencing significant growth of both suppliers and competitors to Applied, and which Applied believes presents a large potential market for its products and opportunity for growth over the long term. In addition, Applied must regularly reassess the size, capability and location of its global infrastructure and make appropriate changes. These challenges may materially and adversely affect Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Applied is exposed to risks associated with a highly concentrated customer base.

 

Applied’s semiconductor and flat panel display customer bases historically have been, and are becoming even more, highly concentrated. In addition, certain customers have entered into strategic alliances or industry consortia that have increased the influence of key industry participants in technology decisions made by their partners. In the solar area, while the number of solar PV manufacturing customers is increasing as the number of market entrants grows, the size of contracts with particular customers is expected to rise substantially as the industry moves to greater solar module factory output capacity, including capacity sufficient to annually generate electricity on a gigawatt scale. In this environment, contracts or orders from a relatively limited number of semiconductor, display and solar manufacturers have accounted for, and are expected to continue to account for, a substantial portion of Applied’s business. In addition, the mix and type of customers, and sales to any single customer, may vary significantly from quarter to quarter and from year to year. If customers do not place orders, or they delay or cancel orders, Applied may not be able to replace the business. As Applied’s products are configured to customer specifications, changing, rescheduling or canceling orders may result in significant, non-recoverable costs. Major customers may also seek, and on occasion receive, pricing, payment, intellectual property-related, or other commercial terms that are less favorable to Applied. In addition, certain customers have undergone significant ownership and/or management changes, and outsourced manufacturing activities, have engaged in collaboration or cooperation arrangements with other customers or have consolidated with other customers, which may result in additional complexities in managing customer relationships and transactions. These factors could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Applied is exposed to risks associated with acquisitions and strategic investments.

 

Applied has made, and in the future intends to make, acquisitions of, and investments in, companies, technologies or products in existing, related or new markets for Applied. Acquisitions involve numerous risks, including but not limited to:

 

 

 

 

Applied also makes strategic investments in other companies, including companies formed as joint ventures, which may decline in value and/or not meet desired objectives. The success of these investments depends on various factors over which Applied may have limited or no control and, particularly with respect to joint ventures, requires ongoing and effective cooperation with strategic partners. Mergers and acquisitions and strategic investments are inherently subject to significant risks, and the inability to effectively manage these risks could materially and adversely affect Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Manufacturing interruptions or delays could affect Applied’s ability to meet customer demand, while the failure to estimate customer demand accurately could result in excess or obsolete inventory.

 

Applied’s business depends on its ability to supply equipment, services and related products that meet the rapidly changing technical and volume requirements of its customers, which depends in part on the timely delivery of parts, components and subassemblies (collectively, parts) from suppliers. Some key parts may be subject to long lead-times and/or obtainable only from a single supplier or limited group of suppliers, and some sourcing or subassembly is provided by suppliers located in countries other than the United States, including China. Applied may experience significant interruptions of its manufacturing operations, delays in its ability to deliver products or services, increased costs or customer order cancellations as a result of:

 

 

In addition, Applied’s need to rapidly increase its business and manufacturing capacity to meet unanticipated increases in demand may exacerbate any interruptions in Applied’s manufacturing operations and supply chain and the associated effect on Applied’s working capital. Moreover, if actual demand for Applied’s products is different than expected, Applied may purchase more/fewer parts than necessary or incur costs for canceling, postponing or expediting delivery of parts. The volatility of demand for capital equipment increases capital, technical and other risks for companies in the supply chain. Any or all of these factors could materially and adversely affect Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

The failure to successfully implement and conduct off-shoring and outsourcing activities and other operational initiatives could adversely affect results of operations.

 

To better align its costs with market conditions, increase its presence in growing markets, enhance productivity, and improve efficiencies, Applied conducts engineering, software development and other operations in regions outside the United States, particularly India and China, and outsources certain functions to third parties, including companies in the United States, India, China and other countries. Outsourced functions include certain engineering, manufacturing, customer support, software development, information technology support, finance and administrative activities. The expanding role of third party providers has required changes to Applied’s existing operations and the adoption of new procedures and processes for retaining and managing these providers in order to realize the potential productivity and operational efficiencies, assure quality and continuity of supply, and protect Applied’s intellectual property. In addition, Applied has implemented several key operational initiatives intended to improve manufacturing efficiency, including integrate-to-order, module-final-test and merge-in-transit programs. Applied also is implementing a multi-year, company-wide program to transform certain business processes, which includes transitioning to a single enterprise resource planning (ERP) software system to perform various functions. The conversion to this new ERP system will include certain risks, including difficulties with data integrity and business interruption.

 

If Applied does not effectively develop and implement its off-shoring and outsourcing strategies, if required export and other governmental approvals are not timely obtained, if Applied’s third party providers do not perform as anticipated, or if there are delays or difficulties in implementing a new ERP system or enhancing business processes, Applied may not realize anticipated productivity improvements or cost efficiencies, and may experience operational difficulties, increased costs (including energy and transportation), manufacturing interruptions or delays, inefficiencies in the structure and/or operation of its supply chain, loss of its intellectual property rights, quality issues, increased product time-to-market and/or inefficient allocation of human resources, any or all of which could materially and adversely affect Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The ability to attract, retain and motivate key employees is vital to Applied’s success.

 

Applied’s success and competitiveness depend in large part on its ability to attract, retain and motivate key employees. Achieving this objective may be difficult due to many factors, including fluctuations in global economic and industry conditions, changes in Applied’s management or leadership, competitors’ hiring practices, cost reduction activities, and the effectiveness of Applied’s compensation programs, including its equity-based programs. Applied periodically evaluates its overall compensation program and makes adjustments, as appropriate, to enhance its competitiveness. If Applied does not successfully attract, retain and motivate key employees, Applied may be unable to capitalize on its opportunities and its operating results may be materially and adversely affected.

 

Changes in tax rates or tax liabilities could affect results of operations.

 

As a global company, Applied is subject to taxation in the United States and various other countries. Significant judgment is required to determine and estimate worldwide tax liabilities. Applied’s future annual and quarterly tax rates could be affected by numerous factors, including changes in the: (1) applicable tax laws; (2) composition of pre-tax income in countries with differing tax rates; or (3) valuation of Applied’s deferred tax assets and liabilities. In addition, Applied is subject to regular examination by the Internal Revenue Service and other tax authorities. Applied regularly assesses the likelihood of favorable or unfavorable outcomes resulting from these examinations to determine the adequacy of its provision for income taxes. Although Applied believes its tax estimates are reasonable, there can be no assurance that any final determination will not be materially different from the treatment reflected in Applied’s historical income tax provisions and accruals, which could materially and adversely affect Applied’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

Applied is exposed to various risks related to legal proceedings or claims and protection of intellectual property rights.

 

Applied from time to time is, and in the future may be, involved in legal proceedings or claims regarding patent infringement, intellectual property rights, antitrust, environmental regulations, securities, contracts, product

performance, product liability, unfair competition, employment and other matters. In addition, Applied on occasion receives notification from customers who believe that Applied owes them indemnification or other obligations related to claims made against customers by third parties. These legal proceedings and claims, whether with or without merit, may be time-consuming and expensive to prosecute or defend, divert management’s attention and resources, and/or inhibit Applied’s ability to sell its products. There can be no assurance regarding the outcome of current or future legal proceedings or claims. Applied previously entered into a mutual covenant-not-to-sue arrangement with one of its competitors to decrease the risk of patent infringement lawsuits in the future. There can be no assurance that the intended results of this arrangement will be achieved or that Applied will be able to adequately protect its intellectual property rights with the restrictions associated with such a covenant. In addition, Applied’s success depends in significant part on the protection of its intellectual property and other rights. Infringement of Applied’s rights by a third party, such as the unauthorized manufacture or sale of equipment or spare parts, could result in uncompensated lost market and revenue opportunities for Applied. Applied’s intellectual property rights may not provide significant competitive advantages if they are circumvented, invalidated, rendered obsolete by the rapid pace of technological change, or if Applied does not adequately protect or assert these rights. Furthermore, the laws and practices of other countries, including China, India, Taiwan and Korea, permit the protection and enforcement of Applied’s rights to varying extents, which may not be sufficient to protect Applied’s rights. If Applied is not able to obtain or enforce intellectual property rights, resolve or settle claims, obtain necessary licenses on commercially reasonable terms, and/or successfully prosecute or defend its intellectual property position, Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Applied is subject to risks of non-compliance with environmental and safety regulations.

 

Applied is subject to environmental and safety regulations in connection with its global business operations, including but not limited to: regulations related to the development, manufacture and use of its products; recycling and disposal of materials used in its products or in producing its products; the operation of its facilities; and the use of its real property. The failure or inability to comply with existing or future environmental and safety regulations could result in: (1) significant remediation liabilities; (2) the imposition of fines; (3) the suspension or termination of the development, manufacture, sale or use of certain of its products; (4) limitations on the operation of its facilities or ability to use its real property; and/or (5) a decrease in the value of its real property, each of which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Applied is exposed to various risks related to the regulatory environment.

 

Applied is subject to various risks related to: (1) new, different, inconsistent or even conflicting laws, rules and regulations that may be enacted by legislative bodies and/or regulatory agencies in the countries in which Applied operates; (2) disagreements or disputes between national or regional regulatory agencies related to international trade; and (3) the interpretation and application of laws, rules and regulations. If Applied is found by a court or regulatory agency not to be in compliance with applicable laws, rules or regulations, Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations could be materially and adversely affected.

 

Applied is subject to internal control evaluations and attestation requirements of Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

 

Pursuant to Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, Applied must include in its Annual Report on Form 10-K a report of management on the effectiveness of Applied’s internal control over financial reporting. Ongoing compliance with this requirement is complex, costly and time-consuming. If Applied fails to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting or Applied’s management does not timely assess the adequacy of such internal control, Applied could be subject to regulatory sanctions and the public’s perception of Applied may decline.

 

approximately 111,000 square feet of additional building space; and 25 acres in China that could accommodate approximately 768,000 square feet of additional building space.

 

Applied considers the properties that it owns or leases as adequate to meet its current and future requirements. Applied regularly assesses the size, capability and location of its global infrastructure and periodically makes adjustments based on these assessments.

 

 

 

Performance Graph

 

The performance graph below shows the five-year cumulative total stockholder return on Applied common stock during the period from October 26, 2003 through October 26, 2008. This is compared with the cumulative total return of the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index and the RDG Semiconductor Composite Index over the same period. The comparison assumes $100 was invested on October 26, 2003 in Applied common stock and in each of the foregoing indices and assumes reinvestment of dividends, if any. Dollar amounts in the graph are rounded to the nearest whole dollar. The performance shown in the graph represents past performance and should not be considered an indication of future performance.

 

Comparison of 5 Year Cumulative Total Return*
Among Applied Materials, Inc., The S&P 500 Index
And The RDG Semiconductor Composite Index

 

 

 

 

Dividends

 

During fiscal 2008, Applied’s Board of Directors declared four quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $0.06 per share each quarter. The fourth quarterly cash dividend declared in fiscal 2008 was paid on December 4, 2008 to stockholders of record as of November 13, 2008. During fiscal 2007, Applied’s Board of Directors declared one quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.05 per share and three quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $0.06 per share each quarter. Dividends paid during fiscal 2008 and fiscal 2007 totaled $325 million and $306 million, respectively. Applied currently anticipates that it will continue to pay cash dividends on a quarterly basis in the future, although the declaration of any future cash dividend is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend on Applied’s financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, business conditions and other factors, as well as a determination that cash dividends are in the best interest of Applied’s stockholders.

 

 

 

In November 2008, Applied announced that it had temporarily suspended stock repurchases in order to maintain financial flexibility in light of the deteriorating global economic and market conditions.

 

The following selected financial information has been derived from Applied’s historical audited consolidated financial statements and should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and the accompanying notes for the corresponding fiscal years:

 

 

 

 

Introduction

 

Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) is intended to facilitate an understanding of Applied’s business and results of operations. This MD&A should be read in conjunction with Applied’s Consolidated Financial Statements and the accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements included elsewhere in this Form 10-K. The following discussion contains forward-looking statements and should also be read in conjunction with the cautionary statement set forth at the beginning of this Form 10-K. MD&A consists of the following sections:

 

 

Overview

 

Applied provides Nanomanufacturing Technology ^tm solutions for the global semiconductor, flat panel display, solar and related industries, with a broad portfolio of innovative equipment, service and software products. Applied’s customers are primarily manufacturers of semiconductors, flat panel liquid crystal displays (LCDs), solar photovoltaic cells and modules (solar PVs), flexible electronics and energy-efficient glass. Applied operates in four reportable segments: Silicon, Applied Global Services, Display, and Energy and Environmental Solutions. Product development and manufacturing activities occur primarily in North America, Europe, Israel and Asia. Applied’s broad range of equipment and service products are highly technical and are sold primarily through a direct sales force.

 

Applied’s results are driven primarily by worldwide demand for semiconductors, which in turn depends on end-user demand for electronic products. Each of Applied’s businesses is subject to cyclical industry conditions, as demand for manufacturing equipment and services can change depending on supply and demand for chips, LCDs, solar PVs and other electronic devices, as well as other factors, such as global economic and market conditions and technological advances in fabrication processes.

 

The following table presents certain significant measurements for the past three fiscal years:

 

 

Fiscal 2008 financial results reflected decreased demand for semiconductor equipment and, to a lesser extent, service products, due to unfavorable market conditions in the semiconductor industry, partially offset by increased demand for LCD and solar products. New orders decreased from fiscal 2007 due to lower demand for semiconductor equipment from memory, foundry and logic chip manufacturers, partially offset by increased demand by LCD customers and, beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2008, the recognition of orders for Applied’s SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line for manufacturing solar panels. Net sales decreased during fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007 due to the decline in investment from memory and logic customers, partially offset by increased sales of crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar manufacturing products. Net income decreased in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007 due to lower net sales, offset in part by lower operating expenses. Fiscal 2008 financial results included charges associated with restructuring programs.

Fiscal 2007 financial results reflected improved conditions in the semiconductor industry that began with the industry’s recovery in 2006, while conditions in the display industry were mixed as manufacturers postponed capacity additions despite strong consumer demand for LCD TVs. Total orders decreased slightly from fiscal 2006, primarily due to the significant decline in demand for display manufacturing products, partially offset by increased demand for products and services in all other segments. Net sales increased during fiscal 2007 over fiscal 2006, primarily due to strong demand from dynamic random access memory (DRAM) and flash memory chip manufacturers, partially offset by a significant decline in LCD equipment sales as manufacturers absorbed capacity following substantial investment in 2006. Net income improved in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006 due to higher sales and lower operating expenses, offset in part by lower interest income. Fiscal 2007 financial results included restructuring and asset impairment and other charges associated with ceasing development of beamline implant products, and an in-process research and development (IPR&D) expense associated with the acquisition of certain net assets of Brooks Automation, Inc. (Brooks Software).

 

Fiscal 2006 results reflected a recovery in the semiconductor and flat panel display industries along with the global economy, as end-user demand for electronic products and LCDs drove increased customer investments in advanced silicon (particularly memory) and display products compared to fiscal 2005. During this period, Applied’s semiconductor customers increased both high-volume production and leading-edge 65nm and 45nm chip development. Improvements in operating performance were offset in part by restructuring and asset impairment charges, and an IPR&D expense associated with the acquisition of Applied Films Corporation (Applied Films).

 

Applied expects an unusually challenging environment for fiscal 2009. The turmoil in the financial markets and weakening global economy are compounding the impact of the highly cyclical markets in which Applied operates. Current negative trends in consumer spending and pervasive economic uncertainty have led some customers to decrease factory operations and to reassess their projected spending plans. As a result, on November 12, 2008, Applied announced that it will implement a restructuring program beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2009. In addition, Applied’s ability to forecast customers’ future investments and its financial targets are limited in this uncertain macroeconomic climate. Applied currently expects that orders and revenue will be down overall and across most segments in fiscal 2009, with the exception of the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment.

 

Applied’s business was subject to cyclical industry conditions in fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006. As a result of these conditions, there were significant fluctuations in Applied’s quarterly new orders and net sales, both within and across the fiscal years. Demand for manufacturing equipment has historically been volatile as a result of sudden changes in chip and LCD supply and demand and other factors, including global economic and market conditions and rapid technological advances in fabrication processes.

 

 

 

 

New orders for fiscal 2008 decreased 5 percent to $9.2 billion from $9.7 billion in the prior year, due to lower demand for semiconductor equipment from logic, memory, and foundry chip manufacturers, partially offset by increased demand for LCD and solar equipment, including the initial recognition of orders for the Applied SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line. Demand for LCD equipment slowed substantially in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, as Display customers absorbed capacity following robust demand over the preceding three quarters.

 

New orders for fiscal 2007 decreased 2 percent to $9.7 billion from $9.9 billion in the prior year, reflecting delays in investment by LCD customers, partially offset by increased demand for solar equipment, semiconductor equipment, and service products. Demand for semiconductor equipment slowed in the second half of fiscal 2007 as customers absorbed added capacity, while demand from LCD customers recovered in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007.

 

Fiscal 2006 orders of $9.9 billion reflected increased semiconductor manufacturing equipment orders from memory manufacturers, increased service orders as a result of higher customer factory utilization and new product introductions, and increased display orders as customers invested in next-generation equipment.

 

Applied’s backlog for the last three fiscal years was as follows: $4.8 billion at October 26, 2008, $3.7 billion at October 28, 2007, and $3.4 billion at October 29, 2006. Backlog increased in fiscal 2008 primarily due to the inclusion of orders for products obtained through the acquisitions of Baccini S.p.A. (Baccini) and HCT Shaping Systems S.A. (HCT) that met Applied’s order recognition criteria during the third quarter of fiscal 2008 but did not qualify for order recognition at the time of the acquisition, partially offset by debookings, primarily of semiconductor equipment, and unfavorable currency adjustments. Backlog consists of: (1) orders for which written authorizations have been accepted and assigned shipment dates are within the next 12 months, or shipment has occurred but revenue has not been recognized; (2) contractual service revenue and maintenance fees to be earned within the next 12 months; and (3) orders for SunFab lines that are anticipated to be recognized as revenue within the next 12 months. Due to the potential for customer changes in delivery schedules or cancellation of orders, Applied’s backlog at any particular time is not necessarily indicative of actual sales for any future periods.

 

 

 

During fiscal 2008, net sales decreased by 16 percent, to $8.1 billion from $9.7 billion in fiscal 2007, due to decreased investment from memory and logic chip manufacturers, partially offset by increased demand from solar and LCD customers. During fiscal 2007, net sales increased by 6 percent, to $9.7 billion from $9.2 billion in fiscal 2006, led by strength in memory capacity expansion throughout the year. In fiscal 2006, net sales of $9.2 billion followed the trend of increased orders for the year.

 

Gross Margin

 

Gross margin as a percentage of net sales decreased to 42.4 percent in fiscal 2008 from 46.1 percent in fiscal 2007, compared to 46.8 percent in fiscal 2006. The decrease in the gross margin percentage from fiscal 2007 to fiscal 2008 was attributable to lower net sales and lower margin product mix. The decrease in the gross margin percentage from fiscal 2006 to fiscal 2007 was principally attributable to inventory-related charges of $56 million associated with ceasing development of beamline implant products, incremental charges attributable to acquisitions consisting of inventory fair value adjustments on products sold, amortization and product mix, partially offset by higher revenue levels and lower material costs. Gross margin during fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 included $32 million, $27 million and $37 million, respectively, of equity-based compensation expense.

 

Research, Development and Engineering

 

Applied’s future operating results depend to a considerable extent on its ability to maintain a competitive advantage in the equipment and service products it provides. Applied believes that it is critical to continue to make substantial investments in RD&E to assure the availability of innovative technology that meets the current and projected requirements of its customers’ most advanced designs. Applied historically has maintained its commitment to investing in RD&E in order to continue to offer new products and technologies. RD&E expenses were $1.1 billion (14 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2008, $1.1 billion (12 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2007 and $1.2 billion (13 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2006. RD&E expense during fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 included $59 million, $56 million and $76 million, respectively, of equity-based compensation expense. Development cycles range from 12 to 36 months depending on whether the product is an enhancement of an existing product, which typically has a shorter development cycle, or a new product, which typically has a longer development cycle. Most of Applied’s existing products resulted from internal development activities and innovations involving new technologies, materials and processes. In certain instances, Applied acquires technologies, either in existing or new product areas, to complement its existing technology capabilities and to reduce time to market.

 

In fiscal 2008, Applied focused on the development of processes and systems for the continued scaling of semiconductor devices. Applied pioneered a self-aligned double patterning approach that can enable 22nm and below device fabrication using conventional optical lithography. The Company also developed technology for the

implementation of through-silicon vias, an emerging solution for interconnecting 3D chip stacks to achieve better device performance, lower power consumption, reduced costs and the integration of heterogeneous devices. Efforts were also focused on developing the systems and technology to reduce the cost-per-watt of solar electricity.

 

In fiscal 2007, Applied focused on developing systems for customers’ new chip designs with 45nm and below geometries, including systems to enable faster transistors using strain engineering and high-k/metal gate technologies, and patterning processes to enable customers to extend their existing 193 nm lithography tools through additional technology generations. Applied also continued to invest in solar research and development.

 

In fiscal 2006, Applied continued its development of systems to increase chip performance, especially for flash and DRAM devices. Applied also focused on developing systems for 32nm and 22nm copper/low k interconnect processing technologies to address critical manufacturing challenges that chipmakers face as they transition to future device generations, helping them to bring new products to market more rapidly while minimizing risk. Applied also continued to focus on developing LCD systems to process larger glass substrates.

 

There were no IPR&D charges recorded in fiscal 2008. During fiscal 2007, Applied recorded an IPR&D expense of $5 million associated with the acquisition of certain net assets of Brooks Software, a division of Brooks Automation, Inc. During fiscal 2006, Applied recorded an IPR&D expense in the amount of $14 million related to the acquisition of Applied Films. Applied’s methodology for allocating the purchase price relating to purchased acquisitions to IPR&D was determined through established valuation techniques. The IPR&D was expensed upon acquisition because technological feasibility had not been established and no future alternative uses existed.

 

Marketing, Selling, General and Administrative

 

Marketing, selling, general and administrative expenses were $965 million (12 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2008, $952 million (10 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2007, and $907 million (10 percent of net sales) in fiscal 2006. The increase in marketing, selling, general and administrative expenses from fiscal 2007 to 2008 was principally attributable to increased operating costs from business acquisitions and equity compensation expenses, offset in part by cost control initiatives. The increase in marketing, selling, general and administrative expenses from fiscal 2006 to 2007 was principally attributable to increased operating costs from acquired businesses, investments in the solar business expansion, and increased variable compensation expenses. These expenses were partially offset by lower equity compensation expenses and savings from cost control initiatives, including ceasing development of beamline implant products and transitioning to managed service providers to perform certain information technology and business infrastructure support. Marketing, selling and general and administrative expenses during fiscal 2008, 2007 and 2006 included $88 million, $77 million and $104 million, respectively, of equity-based compensation expense.

 

Restructuring and Asset Impairments

 

During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, Applied announced a global cost reduction plan (the Plan) that primarily affected its Silicon and Applied Global Services segments and related support organizations. As part of the Plan, Applied reduced its global workforce through a combination of job elimination and attrition. For fiscal 2008, Applied recorded restructuring charges of $29 million relating to the Plan, consisting primarily of employee termination costs to reduce its workforce. The affected employees were based in North America, Europe and Asia, and represented multiple functions.

 

During the second quarter of fiscal 2007, Applied’s Board of Directors approved a plan (the Implant Plan) to cease development of beamline implant products for semiconductor manufacturing and curtail the operations of its Implant group based in Horsham, England. Under the Implant Plan, Applied closed its research, development and manufacturing operations in Horsham in October 2007. Costs under the Implant Plan for fiscal 2008 consisted of restructuring charges of $11 million associated with facilities. Costs under the Implant Plan in fiscal 2007 consisted primarily of inventory-related charges reported as cost of products sold of $56 million, other operating expenses of $10 million, and restructuring and asset impairment charges of $30 million. Also as part of the Implant Plan, Applied recorded restructuring charges of $22 million, consisting primarily of employee termination costs to reduce its workforce. The majority of the affected employees were based in Horsham, England, and represented multiple functions. Asset impairment charges included $8 million of fixed asset write-offs. The Implant group operated in

the Silicon segment, and the results of its operations were not material to Applied’s financial position or results of operations.

 

During the first quarter of fiscal 2006, Applied’s Board of Directors approved a plan to disinvest a portion of Applied’s real estate and facilities portfolio (the Disinvestment Plan). Properties with an estimated fair value of $56 million were reported as assets held-for-sale and reclassified from property, plant and equipment on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. During fiscal 2006, Applied recorded an asset impairment charge of $124 million to write down the following properties to estimated fair value: (1) facilities in Narita, Japan, Chunan, Korea, Hillsboro, Oregon, and Danvers, Massachusetts; and (2) 26 acres of unimproved land in Hillsboro, Oregon. During fiscal 2006, Applied sold the Danvers facility for net proceeds of $16 million and recognized a gain of $4 million. During fiscal 2007, Applied sold the Hillsboro, Chunan, and Narita facilities and the Hillsboro land for total net proceeds of $38 million and recognized a gain of $3 million. Also in fiscal 2006, as part of the Disinvestment Plan, Applied recorded lease termination charges in the amount of $89 million related to the closure of its leased Hayward, California facility.

 

For further details, see Note 6 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Net Interest and Other Income

 

Net interest and other income was $89 million for fiscal 2008, $98 million for fiscal 2007, and $149 million for fiscal 2006.

 

The decrease in net interest and other income for fiscal 2008 from fiscal 2007 was primarily due to a reduction in short-term investments and a decrease in interest rates during fiscal 2008, offset by a decrease in interest expense associated with scheduled debt maturities that occurred in September 2007. The decrease in net interest and other income from fiscal 2006 to 2007 was primarily due to a reduction in cash and investments during the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006 when Applied repurchased 145 million shares of its outstanding common stock for an aggregate purchase price of $2.5 billion under an accelerated stock buyback program.

 

Income Taxes

 

Applied’s effective income tax provision rate was 31.8 percent for fiscal 2008, 29.9 percent for fiscal 2007, and 30.0 percent for fiscal 2006. Applied’s effective tax rate was higher for fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007 as fiscal 2007 reflected benefits of $36 million principally related to the favorable resolution of audits of prior years’ income tax filings, partially offset by a $13 million charge from the expensing of equity-based compensation. Applied’s effective tax rate of 30.0 percent for fiscal 2006 reflected benefits of $61 million principally related to the favorable resolution of audits of prior years’ income tax filings, partially offset by a $17 million charge from the expensing of equity-based compensation.

 

Applied’s future effective income tax rate depends on various factors, such as tax legislation, the geographic composition of Applied’s pre-tax income, and non-tax deductible expenses incurred in connection with acquisitions. Management carefully monitors these factors and timely adjusts the effective income tax rate accordingly.

 

Segment Information

 

Applied operates in four reportable segments: Silicon, Applied Global Services, Display, and Energy and Environmental Solutions. A description of the products and services, as well as financial data, for each reportable segment can be found in Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements. Applied does not allocate to its reportable segments certain operating expenses, which it manages separately at the corporate level. These unallocated costs include those for equity-based compensation and certain components of variable compensation, corporate marketing and sales, corporate functions (certain management, finance, legal, human resources and RD&E), and unabsorbed information technology and occupancy. Effective in the first quarter of fiscal 2008, Applied renamed two of its reportable segments. The Fab Solutions segment was renamed Applied Global Services, and the Adjacent Technologies segment was renamed Energy and Environmental Solutions. In addition, Applied changed its management reporting system for services to report all service results in the Applied Global Services

segment. Applied has reclassified segment operating results for fiscal 2007 and 2006 to conform to the fiscal 2008 presentation.

 

Discussions below include the results of each reportable segment.

 

Silicon Segment

 

The Silicon segment includes semiconductor capital equipment for deposition, etch, rapid thermal processing (RTP), chemical mechanical planarization (CMP), and metrology and inspection. Development efforts are focused on solving customers’ key technical challenges, including transistor performance and nanoscale patterning, and on improving chip manufacturing productivity to reduce costs.

 

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

 

 

Silicon new orders decreased 38 percent to $4.1 billion in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007. The decrease in new orders was due to reduced demand for equipment from logic, memory and foundry customers. Net sales decreased 38 percent to $4.0 billion in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007. The decrease in net sales was due to decreased investment by logic and memory customers. Operating income decreased 48 percent to $1.2 billion in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007. The decrease in operating income was due to significantly lower revenue levels from the slowdown in the semiconductor equipment industry, partially offset by lower operating expenses attributable to continued focus on cost controls and improvement in manufacturing activities. In fiscal 2008, the Company launched two key products for photomask applications: the Applied Aera2 Mask Inspection system, which detects critical defects on a photomask, and the Applied Tetra Reticle Clean system, which cleans 32nm and below photomasks using wet clean chemistry. The Company also introduced the Applied Producer eHARP system for depositing films in high aspect ratio device structures.

 

Silicon orders increased 1 percent to $6.7 billion in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006, reflecting the semiconductor industry’s strength during this period, driven by demand for cell phones, computers, digital TVs, game consoles, MP3 players and other electronic products. The majority of new orders were for memory applications as customers invested in leading-edge flash and DRAM memory devices, while orders from foundries remained at low levels. Net sales increased 9 percent to $6.5 billion in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006. The increase in net sales was due to increased investment by memory and logic semiconductor customers in multiple areas, including etch, inspection, and RTP products. Operating income increased 19 percent to $2.4 billion in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006. The increase in operating income was due to higher revenue levels and continued focus on cost controls. Operating income for fiscal 2007 included charges of $66 million related to ceasing development of beamline implant products. In fiscal 2007, the Company launched the Applied Producer GT, a significant redesign of its successful Producer platform that offers faster, more cost-effective CVD processing for 45 nm and beyond applications. To meet the challenges of fabricating next-generation transistors, Applied announced its portfolio of high-k/metal gate solutions, including the Applied Advanced Gate Stack and Applied Centura Carina Etch systems. Other new etch systems introduced were the Applied Mariana Trench, for etching high aspect ratio structures, the Applied Opus AdvantEdge Metal Etch with a new 5-chamber platform, and the Applied Centura Tetra III Advanced Reticle Etch. The Company also added to its line of lithography-enabling systems with the new Applied Producer ACE SACVD and added to its line of strain engineering solutions with the Applied Producer Celera CVD.

 

During fiscal 2006, leading semiconductor manufacturers reported increased sales as the electronics market continued to grow. The demand for consumer electronics, including broadband, personal computers and cell phones with increasing digital content and complex chips, resulted in increased chip demand and the need for additional capacity. In addition to expanding consumer electronics demand, corporate information technology investment increased, with an emphasis on security, server consolidation and more robust internet infrastructures. During

fiscal 2006, demand increased in many areas, including etch, inspection and thin films products. Improved operating results in fiscal 2006 reflected an increase in business volume, offset in part by increases in variable compensation expenses. Applied continued its development of systems to increase chip performance, especially for flash and DRAM devices. To extend the usefulness of aluminum (the material used by many memory manufacturers for interconnects) to the sub-70nm node, the Company introduced two products, the Applied Endura CVD Al technology and Applied Centura AdvantEdge Metal Etch system. For faster copper interconnects, Applied launched its enhanced Endura CuBS/S II system with Aktiv Preclean, extending the system’s capability to the 45nm node and below, especially for use with ultra-low dielectric constant (low k) films. The Company introduced the Applied Endura iLB II (integrated liner-barrier) system, offering advances in PVD titanium and preclean technologies, to provide significantly reduced resistance for contact structures. The Company also focused on providing solutions to extend customers’ lithography technology, introducing the Applied Producer APF-e (advanced patterning film enhancement) system. The new APF-e film enables chipmakers to cost-effectively pattern nano-scale features without additional integration complexity while reducing their reliance on next-generation lithography systems.

 

Applied currently expects that the uncertain economic conditions, including credit concerns and lower consumer spending, will lead to further decline in demand for semiconductor equipment in fiscal 2009.

 

Applied Global Services Segment

 

The Applied Global Services segment encompasses technically differentiated products, including spares, services, certain earlier generation equipment products, and remanufactured equipment, to improve operating efficiency, reduce operating costs, and lessen the environmental impact of semiconductor, display and solar customers’ factories. Customer demand for products and services is fulfilled through a global distribution system with trained service engineers located in close proximity to customer sites.

 

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

 

 

Fiscal 2008 results were impacted by lower levels of semiconductor and display customers’ factory utilization. New orders decreased 10 percent to $2.2 billion in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007, due to lower orders for spares, fab-wide services, and refurbished equipment, partially offset by increased orders for service and system enhancements. Net sales decreased 1 percent to $2.3 billion in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007. The net sales decrease reflected lower sales of fab-wide services and spares, offset by increased sales in services and system enhancements. Operating income decreased 9 percent to $575 million in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007 due to higher operating expenses in fiscal 2008.

 

New orders increased 4 percent to $2.5 billion in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006. The increase in new orders reflected increased demand for spare parts and services, as well as demand for factory automation products obtained as part of the Brooks Software acquisition. Net sales of $2.4 billion in fiscal 2007 were slightly up compared to fiscal 2006 due to increased factory automation sales offset by declines in spares sales. Fiscal 2007 remanufactured equipment orders and net sales remained consistent with fiscal 2006 levels. Operating income decreased 8 percent to $630 million in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006, reflecting product mix and increased operating expenses and charges related to the Brooks Software acquisition.

 

Net sales in 2006 reflected increases in spare parts shipments and service contracts as a result of higher wafer starts and an increase in 200mm remanufactured equipment investment. During fiscal 2006, operating results reflected improved operational efficiencies and savings from cost control initiatives. Applied also expanded its product offerings with the introduction of abatement systems for reducing perfluorocarbon (PFC) emissions and additional chamber performance services capabilities.

Fiscal 2007 and 2006 new orders, net sales and operating income increased from the previously reported amounts due to the reclassification in fiscal 2008 of display service products from the Display segment.

 

Applied currently expects that the uncertain global economic conditions will lead to lower factory utilization by Applied’s customers, resulting in lower demand for Applied Global Services’ products in fiscal 2009.

 

Display Segment

 

The Display segment encompasses products for manufacturing LCDs for TVs, personal computers and other video-enabled devices. The business is focused on expanding market share by differentiation with larger-scale substrates, entry into new markets, and development of products to enable cost reductions through productivity and uniformity.

 

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

 

 

New orders increased significantly to $1.5 billion in fiscal 2008 compared to $273 million in fiscal 2007. Increased orders were due to substantial increases in demand by Display customers in response to strong end-product demand. This demand for LCD equipment reached an inflexion point in the third quarter of fiscal 2008 and decreased significantly in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008, reflecting the volatility of the display industry. Net sales increased 38 percent to $976 million in fiscal 2008 compared to fiscal 2007, primarily due to customers’ investment in Gen-8 products. Operating income increased to $310 million in fiscal 2008 from $159 million in fiscal 2007. Operating income increased due to higher revenue levels, product mix and lower operating costs. In fiscal 2008, the Company introduced its Gen-10 systems that can process substrates sized at approximately 2.85 x 3.05 meters. These systems include the AKT-90K PECVD and AKT-90K EBT products.

 

New orders decreased 69 percent to $273 million in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006, reflecting delays in capacity expansion plans by LCD panel makers in light of excess inventories and end product sales price declines. Display customers increased spending levels in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 as panel makers began to experience more favorable market conditions. Net sales decreased 14 percent to $705 million in fiscal 2007. The decrease in net sales was attributable to lower investment by LCD manufacturers as they absorbed capacity. Operating income decreased 38 percent to $159 million in fiscal 2007 compared to fiscal 2006, due to lower revenues and factory absorption, product mix and higher operating expenses in support of the expanded product portfolio resulting from the acquisition of Applied Films in July 2006. In 2007, Applied launched the AKT-PiVot ^tm 55KV system, which employs high-productivity, cost-efficient PVD technology to deposit metal and transparent conductive oxide films on the substrate.

 

During fiscal 2006, price reductions in consumer electronics accelerated the growth of the flat panel display market. As a result, display manufacturers increased investments in Gen-7, Gen-7.5, and Gen-8 systems. In addition, laptop demand continued to be strong, resulting in additional Gen-5 and Gen-5.5 fab investment. With the acquisition of Applied Films in fiscal 2006, Applied entered the PVD color filter market. During the last quarter of fiscal 2006, flat panel equipment demand began to slow as customers aligned their capacity plans and inventory levels. Fiscal 2006 results included a $5 million IPR&D expense related to the acquisition of Applied Films. Applied launched three FPD systems, the AKT-55K EBT, the AKT-55K PECVD and the AKT-NEW ARISTO 2200, for manufacturing Gen-8.5 panels, sized at 2.2m x 2.5m, which produce up to six 55-inch LCD TV screens.

 

Fiscal 2007 and 2006 new orders, net sales and operating income reported herein are lower than the previously reported amounts due to the reclassification in fiscal 2008 of display service products from the Display segment to the Applied Global Services segment.

Applied currently expects that the uncertain global economic conditions will result in decreasing consumer spending, leading to lower factory utilization by flat panel display manufacturers and lower demand for LCD equipment in fiscal 2009.

 

Energy and Environmental Solutions Segment

 

The Energy and Environmental Solutions segment includes products for fabricating solar PV cells and modules, high throughput roll-to-roll coating systems for flexible electronics and web products, and systems used in the manufacture of energy-efficient glass. Applied began offering these products after the acquisition of Applied Films in fiscal 2006. This segment also includes products for manufacturing c-Si solar PVs that were obtained through the acquisitions of HCT in fiscal 2007 and Baccini in fiscal 2008. This business is focused on delivering solutions to generate and conserve energy, with an emphasis on lowering the cost to produce solar power by providing equipment to enhance manufacturing scale and efficiency.

 

Certain significant measures for the past three fiscal years were as follows:

 

 

New orders of $1.3 billion in fiscal 2008 increased from $245 million in fiscal 2007. The increase in new orders was primarily due to the recognition of orders for the Applied SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line that began in the first quarter of fiscal 2008, as well as growth in orders for c-Si products. Net sales of $819 million in fiscal 2008 increased from $165 million in fiscal 2007 due to customers’ investment in c-Si products from the acquisitions of HCT and Baccini and increased sales across all other products in the segment. The increase in net sales for fiscal 2008 included the first revenue recognition of an Applied SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line. The operating loss of $183 million in fiscal 2008 increased from $89 million in fiscal 2007. The increase in operating loss reflected increased RD&E spending to develop products that enable lower-cost production of solar energy, increased operating costs, amortization of acquisition-related costs, and costs related to expansion of solar marketing efforts, partially offset by higher revenues.

 

New orders of $245 million in fiscal 2007 increased from $37 million in fiscal 2006, due primarily to increased orders of c-Si solar, glass and flexible electronics products. Net sales of $165 million in fiscal 2007 increased from $20 million in fiscal 2006 due primarily to higher glass, flexible electronics and c-Si solar net sales. Operating loss of $89 million in fiscal 2007 increased from $8 million in fiscal 2006, reflecting increased RD&E spending to develop products and services that enable lower-cost production of solar energy and costs related to expansion of solar marketing efforts, offset by higher revenues. In fiscal 2007, Applied introduced the Applied SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line, the first integrated production line designed for manufacturing thin film silicon solar modules using 5.7 square meter glass panels.

 

Orders and net sales in fiscal 2006 reflected the results of Applied Films’ solar, flexible electronics and energy-efficient glass products that Applied acquired in the third quarter. Fiscal 2006 results included a $9 million IPR&D expense related to the acquisition of Applied Films.

 

Business Combinations and Equity-Method Investment

 

On January 31, 2008, Applied acquired all of the outstanding shares of Baccini, a privately-held company based in Italy, for a purchase price of $215 million in cash, net of cash and marketable securities acquired. The acquired business is a leading supplier of automated metallization and test systems for manufacturing c-Si photovoltaic cells.

 

On November 9, 2007, Applied purchased from Edwards Vacuum, Inc. certain assets of its Kachina semiconductor equipment parts cleaning and refurbishment business for $19 million.

On August 23, 2007, Applied acquired all of the outstanding shares of Switzerland-based HCT for $463 million in cash, net of cash acquired. The acquired business is the world’s leading supplier of precision wafering systems used principally in manufacturing c-Si substrates for the solar industry.

 

On March 30, 2007, Applied purchased Brooks Software for $137 million in cash. The acquired business is a leading provider of factory management and control software to the semiconductor and flat panel display industries. Its products complement Applied’s existing software applications and enable Applied to offer customers a comprehensive computer integrated manufacturing solution for optimizing fab operations.

 

On August 14, 2006, Applied’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Metron Technology, Inc. (Metron), purchased certain parts cleaning and recycling assets in Singapore from UMS Solutions PTE Ltd. for $10 million. The acquisition enhanced the Company’s capabilities in Southeast Asia to provide advanced, high-quality parts cleaning services to support its customers’ semiconductor manufacturing requirements.

 

On July 20, 2006, Applied and Dainippon Screen Mfg. Co., Ltd. (Screen) completed the formation of Sokudo Co., Ltd. (Sokudo), a Japanese joint venture company, to deliver advanced track solutions for customers’ critical semiconductor manufacturing requirements. Track systems are a key part of semiconductor manufacturing and are used before and after photolithography to deposit, bake and develop the photoresist layer that defines circuit patterns. Screen owns 52 percent and holds the controlling interest in Sokudo, and Applied owns 48 percent of Sokudo. Screen transferred into Sokudo its existing track business and related intellectual property, including employees, products and its installed base of systems. Applied paid $147 million for its investment in Sokudo. Additionally, Applied contributed to Sokudo certain technology and related intellectual property and has provided key development employees. Screen performs manufacturing for Sokudo under an outsourcing agreement.

 

On July 7, 2006, Applied completed its acquisition of Applied Films, a leading supplier of thin film deposition equipment used in manufacturing LCDs, solar cells, flexible electronics and energy-efficient glass. Applied paid $28.50 per share in cash for each outstanding share of Applied Films for a total purchase price of approximately $484 million, or $328 million net of Applied Films’ existing cash and marketable securities. As part of the acquisition, Applied assumed Applied Films’ outstanding stock options and restricted stock unit awards that, at the acquisition date, had a total fair value of $26 million, of which $18 million was allocated to the purchase price and the remainder to unearned compensation. Upon the acquisition and subject to vesting, Applied Films stock options became exercisable for shares of Applied common stock and Applied Films restricted stock unit awards became payable in shares of Applied common stock totaling, in the aggregate, three million shares of Applied common stock.

 

On December 23, 2005, Applied acquired all of the outstanding shares of ChemTrace Corporation and ChemTrace Precision Cleaning, Inc. for $22 million in cash, net of cash acquired, of which $18 million was paid upon closing. This business provides customers with precision parts cleaning and materials testing solutions.

 

For further details, see Note 12 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

 

In April 2008, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) issued FASB Staff Position (FSP) No. 142-3, “Determination of the Useful Life of Intangible Assets” (FSP 142-3). FSP 142-3 amends the factors an entity should consider in developing renewal or extension assumptions used in determining the useful life of recognized intangible assets under FASB Statement No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.” This new guidance applies prospectively to intangible assets that are acquired individually or with a group of other assets in business combinations and asset acquisitions. FSP 142-3 is effective for financial statements issued for fiscal years and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2008. Early adoption is prohibited. Applied is evaluating the potential impact of the implementation of FSP 142-3 on its financial position and results of operations.

 

In March 2008, the FASB issued Statement No. 161, “Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities, an amendment of FASB Statement No. 133” (SFAS 161). SFAS 161 requires disclosures of how and why an entity uses derivative instruments, how derivative instruments and related hedged items are accounted for, and how derivative instruments and related hedged items affect an entity’s financial position, financial performance and cash flows. SFAS 161 will be effective for Applied in fiscal 2010, with early adoption permitted. Applied is

evaluating the potential impact of the implementation of SFAS 161 on its financial position and results of operations.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 141 (revised), “Business Combinations” (SFAS 141(R)). The standard changes the accounting for business combinations, including the measurement of acquirer shares issued in consideration for a business combination, the recognition of contingent consideration, the accounting for preacquisition gain and loss contingencies, the recognition of capitalized in-process research and development, the accounting for acquisition-related restructuring cost accruals, the treatment of acquisition related transaction costs, and the recognition of changes in the acquirer’s income tax valuation allowance. SFAS 141(R) will be effective for Applied in fiscal 2010, with early adoption prohibited. Applied is evaluating the potential impact of the implementation of SFAS 141(R) on its financial position and results of operations.

 

In December 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 160, “Noncontrolling Interests in Consolidated Financial Statements, an amendment of ARB No. 51” (SFAS 160). The standard changes the accounting for noncontrolling (minority) interests in consolidated financial statements, including the requirements to classify noncontrolling interests as a component of consolidated stockholders’ equity, and the elimination of “minority interest” accounting in results of operations with earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests reported as part of consolidated earnings. Additionally, SFAS 160 revises the accounting for both increases and decreases in a parent’s controlling ownership interest. SFAS 160 will be effective for Applied in fiscal 2010, with early adoption prohibited. Applied is evaluating the potential impact of the implementation of SFAS 160 on its financial position and results of operations.

 

In February 2007, the FASB issued Statement No. 159, “The Fair Value Option for Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities Including an Amendment of FASB Statement No. 115” (SFAS 159), which permits entities to elect to measure many financial instruments and certain other items at fair value that are not currently required to be measured at fair value. This election is irrevocable. SFAS 159 will be effective for Applied in fiscal 2009. Management does not believe the effect of implementing SFAS 159 will have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

In September 2006, the FASB issued Statement No. 157, “Fair Value Measurements” (SFAS 157). SFAS 157 defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and expands disclosures about fair value measurements. In February 2008, the FASB issued FSP 157-1, “Application of FASB Statement No. 157 to FASB Statement No. 13 and Other Accounting Pronouncements That Address Fair Value Measurements for Purposes of Lease Classification or Measurement under Statement 13” (FSP 157-1) and FSP 157-2, “Effective Date of FASB Statement No. 157” (FSP 157-2). FSP 157-1 amends SFAS 157 to remove certain leasing transactions from its scope. FSP 157-2 delays the effective date of SFAS 157 for all non-financial assets and non-financial liabilities, except for items that are recognized or disclosed at fair value in the financial statements on a recurring basis (at least annually), until the beginning of Applied’s first quarter of fiscal 2010. The measurement and disclosure requirements related to financial assets and financial liabilities are effective for Applied beginning in the first quarter of fiscal 2009. In October 2008, the FASB issued FSP 157-3, “Determining the Fair Value of a Financial Asset When the Market for That Asset Is Not Active” (FSP 157-3). FSP 157-3 clarifies the application of SFAS 157 in a market that is not active, and provides guidance on the key considerations in determining the fair value of a financial asset when the market for that financial asset is not active. Applied will continue to evaluate the application of SFAS 157. Management does not believe the effect of implementing SFAS 157 will have a material impact on the Company’s financial position or results of operations.

 

Cash, cash equivalents and investments consist of the following:

 

 

Applied generated cash from operating activities of $1.7 billion in fiscal 2008, $2.2 billion in fiscal 2007, and $2.0 billion in fiscal 2006. The primary sources of cash from operating activities were net income, as adjusted to exclude the effect of non-cash charges including depreciation, amortization, equity-based compensation, asset impairments and restructuring and IPR&D expenses, and changes in working capital levels, including accounts receivable and inventories. Applied utilized programs to discount letters of credit issued by customers of $167 million in fiscal 2008, $431 million in fiscal 2007, and $237 million in fiscal 2006. Discounting of letters of credit depends on many factors, including the willingness of financial institutions to discount the letters of credit and the cost of such arrangements. In fiscal 2008, Applied factored accounts receivables totaling $125 million. Days sales outstanding were 79 days at the end of fiscal 2008 and 2007, and 80 days at the end of fiscal 2006. Inventories increased by $674 million in fiscal 2008, mainly due to a net inventory increase within the Energy and Environmental Solutions segment.

 

Applied used $76 million and $977 million of cash in investing activities in fiscal 2008 and 2007, respectively, and generated $1.9 billion of cash from investing activities in fiscal 2006. Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, net of purchases of investments, totaled $405 million in fiscal 2008. Purchases of investments, net of proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, totaled $150 million in fiscal 2007. Proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, net of purchases of investments, totaled $2.6 billion in fiscal 2006. Proceeds from the sale of investments in fiscal 2006 were used principally to fund Applied’s accelerated stock buyback initiated during that year.

 

Capital expenditures were $288 million in fiscal 2008, $265 million in fiscal 2007, and $179 million in fiscal 2006. Fiscal 2008 capital expenditures included investment in the implementation of a global business software system. Fiscal 2007 capital expenditures included investment in the implementation of an enterprise resource planning software system, and in Applied’s new global development capability center in Xi’an, China. Fiscal 2006 capital expenditures included purchases of lab equipment, network infrastructure and three buildings in Santa Clara, California that Applied had previously leased.

 

Investing activities also included investments in technology and acquisitions of companies to allow Applied to access new market opportunities or emerging technologies. During fiscal 2008, Applied acquired all of the outstanding shares of Baccini, a privately-held company based in Italy, for a purchase price of $215 million in cash, net of cash and marketable securities acquired. During the year Applied also purchased from Edwards Vacuum, Inc. certain assets of its Kachina semiconductor equipment parts cleaning and refurbishment business for $19 million. During fiscal 2007, Applied acquired all of the outstanding shares of HCT for $463 million in cash, net of cash acquired, and certain net assets of Brooks Automation, Inc. consisting of its Brooks Software division for $137 million in cash. During fiscal 2006, Applied paid cash for acquisitions and the investment in a joint venture totaling $486 million. During fiscal 2006, Applied acquired the outstanding stock of Applied Films for $310 million in cash, net of cash and marketable securities acquired, and assumed equity awards with a fair value of $26 million, of which $18 million was included in the purchase price; formed a joint venture, Sokudo, with Dainippon Screen Mfg. Ltd., for which Applied paid $147 million in cash and contributed other assets; acquired certain assets of UMS Solutions for $10 million; and acquired ChemTrace Corporation and ChemTrace Precision Cleaning, Inc. for approximately $22 million in cash, net of cash acquired, of which $18 million was paid upon closing. See Note 12 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements for additional details.

 

Applied used cash of $1.4 billion for financing activities in fiscal 2008, $892 million in fiscal 2007, and $4.1 billion in fiscal 2006. Financing activities included issuances and repurchases of common stock and payment

of dividends. Since March 1996, Applied has systematically repurchased shares of its common stock in the open market. Cash used to repurchase shares totaled $1.5 billion in fiscal 2008, $1.3 billion in fiscal 2007, and $4.2 billion in fiscal 2006. During fiscal 2008, Applied’s Board of Directors declared four quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $0.06 per share each. The fourth quarterly cash dividend declared in fiscal 2008 was paid on December 4, 2008, to stockholders of record as of November 13, 2008. During fiscal 2007, Applied’s Board of Directors declared one quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.05 per share and three quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $0.06 per share each. During fiscal 2006, Applied’s Board of Directors declared one quarterly cash dividend in the amount of $0.03 per share and three quarterly cash dividends in the amount of $0.05 per share each. Dividends paid during fiscal 2008, 2007 and fiscal 2006 were $325 million, $306 million and $251 million, respectively. Applied currently anticipates that it will continue to pay cash dividends on a quarterly basis in the future, although the declaration of any future cash dividend is at the discretion of the Board of Directors and will depend on Applied’s financial condition, results of operations, capital requirements, business conditions and other factors, as well as a determination that cash dividends are in the best interest of Applied’s stockholders. Financing activities also included borrowings and repayments of debt. Applied did not have any borrowings in fiscal years 2008, 2007 or 2006. As of October 26, 2008, Applied had credit facilities for unsecured borrowings in various currencies of up to approximately $1.2 billion, of which $1.0 billion is comprised of a 5-year revolving credit agreement with a group of banks that is scheduled to expire in January 2012. This agreement provides for borrowings at interest rates keyed to one of the two rates selected by Applied for each advance, and includes financial and other covenants with which Applied was in compliance at October 26, 2008. No amounts were outstanding under this agreement at October 26, 2008. Cash used for debt repayments totaled $2 million for fiscal 2008, $202 million for fiscal 2007, and $8 million for fiscal 2006. Cash generated from issuances of common stock pursuant to Applied’s equity compensation programs totaled $401 million for fiscal 2008, $948 million for fiscal 2007, and $361 million for fiscal 2006.

 

On September 18, 2006, Applied entered into accelerated stock buyback agreements with Goldman Sachs under which Applied agreed to repurchase from Goldman Sachs shares of Applied’s outstanding common stock for an initial purchase price of $2.5 billion. Under the agreements, Applied purchased 145 million shares of its common stock on September 18, 2006 at a price per share of $17.20, and Goldman Sachs agreed to purchase an equivalent number of shares in the open market over the following four months. At the end of the four month period, Applied was entitled or subject to a price adjustment based upon the volume weighted average price of Applied common stock during the purchase period. On January 24, 2007, Applied settled the price adjustment of $132 million by payment in cash to Goldman Sachs, resulting in an adjusted price per share of $18.08. The repurchase was funded with Applied’s existing cash and investments. The repurchased shares were reported as treasury stock.

 

In the ordinary course of business, Applied provides standby letters of credit or other guarantee instruments to certain parties as required for certain transactions initiated by either Applied or its subsidiaries. As of October 26, 2008, the maximum potential amount of future payments that Applied could be required to make under these guarantee arrangements was $167 million. Applied has not recorded any liability in connection with these guarantee arrangements beyond that required to appropriately account for the underlying transaction being guaranteed. Applied does not believe, based on historical experience and information currently available, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under these guarantee arrangements.

 

Applied expects that changes in its business will affect its working capital components, primarily related to its Energy and Environmental Solutions segment, which includes products for manufacturing solar PVs. Applied believes that the solar industry is moving to increasingly greater factory output of solar modules, including projects with an output capable of generating electricity on a gigawatt scale. Applied has entered into contracts with multiple customers for its SunFab ^tm Thin Film Line, for projects of varying scale. Fulfillment of these contracts requires Applied to invest in inventory particularly work in process, and Applied may obtain customer deposits that reduce the associated effect on other working capital components.

 

Applied’s investment portfolio consists principally of investment grade municipal bonds, money market mutual funds, U.S. Treasury and agency securities, corporate bonds, equity securities, and mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities. Applied regularly monitors the credit risk in its investment portfolio and takes appropriate measures, which may include the sale of certain securities, to manage such risks prudently in accordance with its investment policies. In fiscal 2008, as part of its regular investment review process, Applied recorded an insignificant impairment charge

associated with its investment portfolio. At October 26, 2008, Applied had a gross unrealized loss of $48 million due to a decrease in the fair market value of certain fixed-rate debt and equity securities as a result of the recent turmoil in the global financial markets. Applied regularly reviews its investment portfolio to identify and evaluate investments that have indications of possible impairment. Factors considered in determining whether a loss is temporary include: the length of time and extent to which fair market value has been lower than the cost basis; the financial condition, credit quality and near-term prospects of the investee; and Applied’s ability to hold the investment for a period of time sufficient to allow for any anticipated recovery in fair market value. Generally, the contractual terms of the investments do not permit settlement at prices less than the amortized cost of the investments. While Applied cannot predict future market conditions or market liquidity, Applied believes that its investment policies provide an appropriate means to manage the risks in its investment portfolio. The following types of financial instruments may present additional risks arising from liquidity and/or credit concerns: structured investment vehicles, auction rate securities, sub-prime and “Alt-A” mortgage-backed securities, and collateralized debt obligations. At October 26, 2008, Applied’s holdings in these categories of investments totaled $30 million, or 1% of total cash, cash equivalents and investments, which Applied does not consider to be material. In the event that these categories of investments become illiquid, Applied does not believe that this will materially affect the Company’s liquidity or results of operations.

 

Although cash requirements will fluctuate based on the timing and extent of factors such as those discussed above, Applied’s management believes that cash generated from operations, together with the liquidity provided by existing cash balances and borrowing capability, will be sufficient to satisfy Applied’s liquidity requirements for the next 12 months. In November 2008, Applied announced that it had temporarily suspended stock repurchases in order to maintain financial flexibility in light of the deteriorating global economic and market conditions. For further details regarding Applied’s operating, investing and financing activities for each of the three years in the period ended October 26, 2008, see the Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows in this report.

 

Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

 

During the ordinary course of business, Applied provides standby letters of credit or other guarantee instruments to third parties as required for certain transactions initiated either by Applied or its subsidiaries. As of October 26, 2008, the maximum potential amount of future payments that Applied could be required to make under these guarantee agreements was approximately $167 million. Applied has not recorded any liability in connection with these guarantee arrangements below that required Applied to appropriately account for the underlying transaction being guaranteed. Applied does not believe, based on historical experience and information currently available, that it is probable that any amounts will be required to be paid under these guarantee arrangements.

 

Applied also has operating leases for various facilities. Total rental expense for operating leases was $68 million for fiscal 2008, $62 million for fiscal 2007, and $70 million for fiscal 2006.

 

 

 

 

In addition to the contractual obligations disclosed above, the Company has certain tax obligations. During the first quarter of fiscal 2008, the Company adopted the provisions of FASB Interpretation No. 48, “Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes” (FIN 48). The Company historically has classified interest and penalties and unrecognized tax benefits as current liabilities. Upon adoption of FIN 48, the Company reclassified gross interest and penalties and unrecognized tax benefits that are not expected to result in payment or receipt of cash within one year as non-current liabilities on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. As of October 26, 2008, the Company recorded gross unrecognized tax benefits of $63 million and gross interest and penalties of $8 million. Of the $8 million in interest and penalties, $5 million is classified as long-term payable and $3 million is classified as current payable on the Consolidated Balance Sheet. At this time, the Company is unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate of the timing of payments in individual years due to uncertainties in the timing of tax audit outcomes and, accordingly, such amounts are not included in the above contractual obligation table.

 

Critical Accounting Policies and Estimates

 

The preparation of consolidated financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make judgments, assumptions and estimates that affect the amounts reported. Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements describes the significant accounting policies used in the preparation of the consolidated financial statements. Certain of these significant accounting policies are considered to be critical accounting policies.

 

A critical accounting policy is defined as one that is both material to the presentation of Applied’s consolidated financial statements and requires management to make difficult, subjective or complex judgments that could have a material effect on Applied’s financial condition or results of operations. Specifically, these policies have the following attributes: (1) Applied is required to make assumptions about matters that are highly uncertain at the time of the estimate; and (2) different estimates Applied could reasonably have used, or changes in the estimate that are reasonably likely to occur, would have a material effect on Applied’s financial condition or results of operations.

 

Estimates and assumptions about future events and their effects cannot be determined with certainty. Applied bases its estimates on historical experience and on various other assumptions believed to be applicable and reasonable under the circumstances. These estimates may change as new events occur, as additional information is obtained and as Applied’s operating environment changes. These changes have historically been minor and have been included in the consolidated financial statements as soon as they became known. In addition, management is periodically faced with uncertainties, the outcomes of which are not within its control and will not be known for prolonged periods of time. These uncertainties are discussed in the section above entitled “Risk Factors.” Based on a critical assessment of its accounting policies and the underlying judgments and uncertainties affecting the application of those policies, management believes that Applied’s consolidated financial statements are fairly stated in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America, and provide a meaningful presentation of Applied’s financial condition and results of operations.

 

Management believes that the following are critical accounting policies:

 

Warranty Costs

 

Applied provides for the estimated cost of warranty when revenue is recognized. Estimated warranty costs are determined by analyzing specific product and historical configuration statistics and regional warranty support costs. Applied’s warranty obligation is affected by product and component failure rates, material usage and labor costs incurred in correcting product failures during the warranty period. As Applied’s customer engineers and process support engineers are highly trained and deployed globally, labor availability is a significant factor in determining labor costs. The quantity and availability of critical replacement parts is another significant factor in estimating warranty costs. Unforeseen component failures or exceptional component performance can also result in changes to warranty costs. If actual warranty costs differ substantially from Applied’s estimates, revisions to the estimated warranty liability would be required, which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

Inventory Valuation

 

Inventories are generally stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined on a first-in, first-out basis. The carrying value of inventory is reduced for estimated obsolescence by the difference between its cost and the estimated market value based upon assumptions about future demand. Applied evaluates the inventory carrying value for potential excess and obsolete inventory exposures by analyzing historical and anticipated demand. In addition, inventories are evaluated for potential obsolescence due to the effect of known and anticipated engineering change orders and new products. If actual demand were to be substantially lower than estimated, additional inventory adjustments for excess or obsolete inventory might be required, which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Goodwill and Intangible Assets

 

Applied reviews goodwill and intangible assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable, and also reviews goodwill and intangibles with indefinite lives annually for impairment. Intangible assets, such as purchased technology, are generally recorded in connection with a business acquisition. The value assigned to intangible assets is usually based on estimates and judgments regarding expectations for the success and life cycle of products and technology acquired. If actual product acceptance differs significantly from the estimates, Applied may be required to record an impairment charge to write down the asset to its realizable value. The fair value of a reporting unit is estimated using the market multiples approach, and is dependent on market values for companies in a similar industry. A severe decline in market value could result in an unexpected impairment charge for impaired goodwill, which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

Income Taxes

 

Applied accounts for income taxes by recognizing deferred tax assets and liabilities using statutory tax rates for the effect of temporary differences between the book and tax bases of recorded assets and liabilities, net operating losses and tax credit carryforwards. Deferred tax assets are also reduced by a valuation allowance if it is more likely than not that a portion of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. Management has determined that it is more likely than not that its future taxable income will be sufficient to realize its deferred tax assets.

 

The effective tax rate is highly dependent upon the geographic composition of worldwide earnings, tax regulations governing each region, non-tax deductible expenses incurred in connection with acquisitions and availability of tax credits. Management carefully monitors the changes in many factors and adjusts the effective income tax rate as required. If actual results differ from these estimates, Applied could be required to record a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets or adjust its effective income tax rate, which could have a material adverse effect on Applied’s business, financial condition and results of operations.

 

The calculation of tax liabilities involves significant judgment in estimating the impact of uncertainties in the application of complex tax laws. Resolution of these uncertainties in a manner inconsistent with Applied’s expectations could have a material impact on Applied’s results of operations and financial condition.

 

Equity-Based Compensation — Employee Stock Option Plans and Employee Stock Purchase Plans

 

Effective on October 31, 2005, Applied began accounting for stock options and Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) shares under the provisions of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 123(R), “Share-Based Payment” (SFAS 123(R)), which requires recognition of the fair value of equity-based compensation. The fair value of stock options and ESPP shares is estimated using a Black-Scholes option valuation model. This methodology requires the use of subjective assumptions including expected stock price volatility and the estimated life of each award. The fair value of equity-based compensation awards less the estimated forfeitures is amortized over the service period of the award, and Applied has elected to use the straight-line method. The fair value of restricted stock units is calculated based upon the fair market value of Applied’s common stock at the date of grant (see Note 1 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).

 

 

 

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

The Stockholders and Board of Directors

Applied Materials, Inc.:

 

We have audited Applied Materials, Inc. and subsidiaries’ (the Company) internal control over financial reporting as of October 26, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (COSO). The Company’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report on Internal Control over Financial Reporting. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

 

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, and testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk. Our audit also included performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

 

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

 

In our opinion, Applied Materials, Inc. and subsidiaries maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of October 26, 2008, based on criteria established in Internal Control — Integrated Framework issued by COSO.

 

We also have audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated balance sheets of Applied Materials, Inc. and subsidiaries as of October 26, 2008 and October 28, 2007, and the related consolidated statements of operations, stockholders’ equity and comprehensive income, and cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended October 26, 2008. In connection with our audits of the consolidated financial statements, we have also audited the financial statement schedule as of and for each of the years in the three-year period ended October 26, 2008. Our report dated December 12, 2008 expressed an unqualified opinion on those consolidated financial statements and financial statement schedule.

 

KPMG LLP

 

Mountain View, California

December 12, 2008

 

Pursuant to Paragraph G(3) of the General Instructions to Form 10-K, portions of the information required by Part III of Form 10-K are incorporated by reference from Applied’s Proxy Statement to be filed with the SEC in connection with the 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders (the Proxy Statement).

 

 

 

The following table summarizes information with respect to options and other equity awards under Applied’s equity compensation plans as of October 26, 2008:

 

 

 

 

Applied has the following equity compensation plans that have not been approved by stockholders:

 

2000 Global Equity Incentive Plan The 2000 Global Equity Incentive Plan (the 2000 Plan) was adopted effective as of June 21, 2000. The 2000 Plan provides for the grant of non-qualified stock options to employees other than officers and directors. The administrator of the 2000 Plan (either the Board of Directors of Applied or a committee appointed by the Board) determines the terms and conditions of all stock options granted; provided, however, that (1) the exercise price generally may not be less than 100 percent of the fair market value (on the date of grant) of the stock covered by the option, and (2) the term of options can be no longer than 10 years (or 13 years in the event of death). A total of 147,000,000 shares have been authorized for issuance under the 2000 Plan, and 40,540,000 shares remain available for issuance as of October 26, 2008.

 

Stock Purchase Plan for Offshore Employees The Stock Purchase Plan for Offshore Employees (the Offshore ESPP) was adopted effective as of October 16, 1995 for the benefit of employees of Applied’s participating affiliates (other than United States citizens or residents). The Offshore ESPP provides for the grant of options to purchase shares of Applied common stock through payroll deductions pursuant to one or more offerings. The administrator of the Offshore ESPP (the Board of Directors of Applied or a committee appointed by the Board) determines the terms and conditions of all options prior to the start of an offering, including the purchase price of shares, the number of shares covered by the option and when the option may be exercised. All options granted as part of an offering must be granted on the same date. A total of

12,800,000 shares have been authorized for issuance under the Offshore ESPP, and 1,210,000 shares remain available for issuance as of October 26, 2008.

 

Nonemployee Director Share Purchase Plan The Applied Materials, Inc. Nonemployee Director Share Purchase Plan was adopted effective March 22, 2005. The Nonemployee Director Share Purchase Plan provides a method by which non-employee directors may purchase Applied common stock at 100% of fair market value on the purchase date by foregoing cash they have earned as retainer fees or meeting fees. The shares generally are purchased at the same time the directors otherwise would have been paid the fees in cash. Since the directors pay full fair market value for the shares, there is no reserved amount of shares under this plan and, accordingly, the table above does not include any set number of shares available for future issuance under the plan.

 

Applied Materials Profit Sharing Scheme The Applied Materials Profit Sharing Scheme was adopted effective July 3, 1996 to enable employees of Applied Materials Ireland Limited and its participating subsidiaries to purchase Applied common stock at 100% of fair market value on the purchase date. Under this plan, eligible employees may elect to forego a certain portion of their base salary and certain bonuses they have earned and that otherwise would be payable in cash to purchase shares of Applied common stock at full fair market value. Since the eligible employees pay full fair market value for the shares, there is no reserved amount of shares under this plan and, accordingly, the table above does not include any set number of shares available for future issuance under the plan.

 

 

 

 

See accompanying Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements.

APPLIED MATERIALS, INC.