Use these links to rapidly review the document
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 14, 2017

Registration No. 333-217753


UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549



AMENDMENT NO. 3
TO
Form S-1
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933



Venator Materials PLC
(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

England and Wales
(State or other jurisdiction of
incorporation or organization)
  2860
(Primary Standard Industrial
Classification Code Number)
  98-1373159
(I.R.S. Employer
Identification No.)



Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park,
Stockton-On-Tees, TS22 5FD, United Kingdom
+44 (0) 1740 608 001
(Address, including zip code, and telephone number, including
area code, of registrant's principal executive offices)



Russ Stolle
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer
Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park,
Stockton-On-Tees, TS22 5FD, United Kingdom
+44 (0) 1740 608 001

(Name, address, including zip code, and telephone number, including
area code, of agent for service)



Copies to:

Alan Beck
Sarah K. Morgan
Vinson & Elkins L.L.P.
1001 Fannin Street, Suite 2500
Houston, Texas 77002
(713) 758-2222

 

Ilir Mujalovic
Harald Halbhuber
Shearman & Sterling LLP
599 Lexington Avenue
New York, NY 10022
(212) 848-4000



Approximate date of commencement of proposed sale of the securities to the public:
As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

                   If any of the securities being registered on this Form are to be offered on a delayed or continuous basis pursuant to Rule 415 under the Securities Act of 1933, check the following box:     o

                   If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.     o

                   If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(c) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.     o

                   If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d) under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement for the same offering.     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, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of "large accelerated filer," "accelerated filer," "smaller reporting company" and "emerging growth company" in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

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

Emerging growth company  o

                   If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 7(a)(2)(B) of the Securities Act.     o



CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE

       
 
Title of Each Class of Securities
to be Registered

  Proposed Maximum
Aggregate Offering
Price(1)(2)

  Amount of
Registration Fee(3)

 

Ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share

  $100,000,000   $11,590

 

(1)
Includes shares issuable upon exercise of the underwriters' option to purchase additional ordinary shares.

(2)
Estimated solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee pursuant to Rule 457(o) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

(3)
The registrant previously paid $11,590 of the total registration fee in connection with its initial registration statement on May 5, 2017.



                    The registrant hereby amends this Registration Statement on such date or dates as may be necessary to delay its effective date until the registrant shall file a further amendment that specifically states that this Registration Statement shall thereafter become effective in accordance with Section 8(a) of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or until this Registration Statement shall become effective on such date as the Securities and Exchange Commission, acting pursuant to said Section 8(a), may determine.

   


Table of Contents

The information in this prospectus is not complete and may be changed. The securities described herein may not be sold until the registration statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission is effective. This prospectus is not an offer to sell these securities and it is not soliciting an offer to buy these securities in any state where the offer or sale is not permitted.

Subject to Completion,
Preliminary Prospectus dated July 14, 2017

P R O S P E C T U S

                   Shares

LOGO

Venator Materials PLC

Ordinary Shares



              This is Venator Materials PLC's initial public offering. Huntsman International LLC ("Huntsman International") and Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V. ("HHN") (together, the "selling shareholders"), wholly-owned subsidiaries of Huntsman Corporation, are selling            and            of our ordinary shares, respectively. We are not selling any ordinary shares under this prospectus and will not receive any proceeds from the sale of ordinary shares to be offered by the selling shareholders.

              We expect the public offering price to be between $        and $        per share. Currently, no public market exists for the ordinary shares. After pricing of the offering, we expect that the ordinary shares will trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "VNTR."

              After the completion of this offering, Huntsman Corporation will continue to control a majority of the voting power of our ordinary shares. As a result, we will be a "controlled company" within the meaning of the New York Stock Exchange listing standards. See "Management—Status as a Controlled Company" and "Security Ownership of Management and Selling Shareholders."

               Investing in the ordinary shares involves risks that are described in the "Risk Factors" section beginning on page 21 of this prospectus.



 
 
Per Share
 
Total
 

Public offering price

  $     $    

Underwriting discount(1)

  $     $    

Proceeds, before expenses, to the selling shareholders

  $     $    
(1)
Excludes an aggregate structuring fee of $          payable to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated. See "Underwriting" section beginning on page 205 of this prospectus for additional information regarding total underwriter compensation.

              The underwriters may also exercise their option to purchase up to an additional            ordinary shares from HHN, at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount, for 30 days after the date of this prospectus.

              Neither the Securities and Exchange Commission nor any state securities commission has approved or disapproved of these securities or determined if this prospectus is truthful or complete. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.

              The shares will be ready for delivery on or about                   , 2017.



Citigroup   Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC   BofA Merrill Lynch   J.P. Morgan
Barclays   Deutsche Bank Securities   UBS Investment Bank   RBC Capital Markets
Moelis & Company   HSBC   Nomura   SunTrust Robinson Humphrey
    Academy Securities   COMMERZBANK    

The date of this prospectus is                  , 2017.


Table of Contents


TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

  1

RISK FACTORS

  21

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

  53

THE SEPARATION

  55

USE OF PROCEEDS

  57

DIVIDEND POLICY

  58

CAPITALIZATION

  59

DILUTION

  61

SELECTED HISTORICAL COMBINED FINANCIAL DATA

  62

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

  64

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

  74

BUSINESS

  112

MANAGEMENT

  135

EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

  140

DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

  156

CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

  157

SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT AND SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

  167

DESCRIPTION OF SHARE CAPITAL

  168

SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

  194

MATERIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS

  196

UNDERWRITING

  205

LEGAL MATTERS

  214

EXPERTS

  215

WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

  216

INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

  F-1

i


Table of Contents


ABOUT THIS PROSPECTUS

              You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus and any free writing prospectus prepared by us or on behalf of us or the information to which we have referred you. Neither we, nor the selling shareholders, nor the underwriters have authorized anyone to provide you with information different from that contained in this prospectus and any free writing prospectus. We take no responsibility for, and can provide no assurance as to the reliability of, any other information that others may give you. The selling shareholders and the underwriters are offering to sell ordinary shares and seeking offers to buy ordinary shares only in jurisdictions where offers and sales are permitted. The information in this prospectus is accurate only as of the date of this prospectus, regardless of the time of delivery of this prospectus or any sale of the ordinary shares. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects may have changed since that date. We will update this prospectus only as required by law, including with respect to any material change affecting us or our business prior to the completion of this offering.

              Except when the context otherwise requires or where otherwise indicated, the information included in this prospectus assumes (1) the completion of the separation, described in "The Separation," (2) this offering and (3) that the underwriters will not exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares, described below.

              This prospectus contains forward-looking statements that are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control. See "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements."

              Until                , 2017 (25 days after the date of this prospectus), all dealers that effect transactions in our ordinary shares, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This is in addition to the dealer's obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to unsold allotments or subscriptions.


COMMONLY USED DEFINED TERMS

              Except when the context otherwise requires or where otherwise indicated, (1) all references to "Venator," the "Company," "we," "us" and "our" refer to Venator Materials PLC and its subsidiaries, or, as the context requires, the Pigments & Additives business of Huntsman, and assume the completion of all of the transactions referred to in this prospectus in connection with this offering, (2) all references to "Huntsman" refer to Huntsman Corporation, our ultimate parent company prior to this offering, and our controlling shareholder following this offering, and its subsidiaries, other than us, (3) all references to the "Titanium Dioxide" segment or business refer to the titanium dioxide ("TiO 2 ") business of the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman and the related operations and assets, liabilities and obligations, which we will assume in connection with the separation, (4) all references to the "Performance Additives" segment or business refer to the functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment businesses of the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman and the related operations and assets, liabilities and obligations, which we will assume in connection with the separation, (5) all references to "other businesses" refer to certain businesses that Huntsman will retain following the separation and that are included in our historical combined financial statements in "corporate and other", (6) all references to "Huntsman International" refer to Huntsman International LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman, a selling shareholder and the entity through which Huntsman operates all of its businesses, (7) all references to "HHN" refer to Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman and a selling shareholder, (8) all references to the "selling shareholders" refer to Huntsman International and HHN, our parent companies prior to this offering, and the entities through which Huntsman is selling our ordinary shares in this offering, (9) "Financings" has the meaning set forth under "Prospectus Summary—Recent Developments—Financing Arrangements" and

ii


Table of Contents

(10) we refer to the internal reorganization, the separation transactions, including the entry into and effectiveness of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, and the Financings, including the use of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility therefrom to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses, as the "separation."


TRADEMARKS AND TRADE NAMES

              We own or have rights to various trademarks, service marks and trade names in connection with the operation of our business. This prospectus may also contain trademarks, service marks and trade names of third parties, which are the property of their respective owners. Our use or display of third parties' trademarks, service marks, trade names or products in this prospectus is not intended to, and does not imply, any relationship with, or endorsement or sponsorship by us. Solely for convenience, the trademarks, service marks and trade names referred to in this prospectus may appear without the ®, TM or SM symbols, but such references are not intended to indicate, in any way, that we will not assert, to the fullest extent under applicable law, our rights or the right of the applicable licensor to these trademarks, service marks and trade names.


INDUSTRY AND MARKET DATA

              The market data and certain other statistical information used in this prospectus includes industry data and forecasts that are based on independent industry publications such as (i)  TiO 2 Pigment Price Forecast to 2020, Q2/Q3/Q4 2017 and Q1 2017, (ii)  TiO 2 Pigment Supply/Demand Q2/Q3/Q4 2016 , (iii)  Global TiO 2 Pigment Producers—Comparative Cost & Profitability Study 2016 , (iv)  Feedstock Price Forecast Q3/Q4 2017 and Q1 2017 and (v)  TiO 2 Market Insight, February 2017 , each published by TZ Mineral International Pty Ltd., as well as government publications and other published independent sources. Some data is also based on our good faith estimates. The industry in which we operate is subject to a high degree of uncertainty and risks and such data and risks are subject to change, including those discussed under "Risk Factors" and "Forward-Looking Statements." These and other factors could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in these publications.


OUR SEPARATION FROM HUNTSMAN CORPORATION

              We are currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman and all of our outstanding ordinary shares are indirectly owned by Huntsman. Upon the completion of this offering, we will be a stand-alone public company and Huntsman, through HHN, will be our controlling shareholder.

              Prior to and in preparation for the completion of this offering, Huntsman and its subsidiaries expect to complete an internal reorganization, which is referred to in this prospectus as the "internal reorganization," in order to transfer to us the entities, assets, liabilities and obligations that we will hold following the separation of our business from Huntsman's other businesses. In addition, we and Huntsman will enter into a separation agreement to effect the separation of our business from Huntsman following our initial public offering. We will also enter into ancillary agreements with Huntsman that will govern certain interactions, including with respect to employee matters, tax matters, transition services and registration rights. In addition, in anticipation of this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings. The internal reorganization, the separation transactions, including the entry into and effectiveness of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, and the Financings, including the use of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses, are referred to in this prospectus as the "separation." For a description of the separation agreement and the ancillary agreements, see "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company" and the historical and pro forma financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus. For a description of the Financings, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Arrangements."

iii


Table of Contents

 


PROSPECTUS SUMMARY

               This summary highlights information contained in this prospectus and provides an overview of our company, our separation from Huntsman and the initial public offering our ordinary shares. You should read this entire prospectus carefully, including the risks discussed under "Risk Factors," our audited and unaudited historical combined financial statements and the notes thereto and our unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus. Some of the statements in this summary constitute forward-looking statements. See "Forward-Looking Statements."

Overview

              We are a leading global manufacturer and marketer of chemical products that improve the quality of life for downstream consumers and promote a sustainable future. Our products comprise a broad range of pigments and additives that bring color and vibrancy to buildings, protect and extend product life, and reduce energy consumption. We market our products globally to a diversified group of industrial customers through two segments: Titanium Dioxide, which consists of our TiO 2 business, and Performance Additives, which consists of our functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment businesses. We are a leading global producer in many of our key product lines, including TiO 2 , color pigments and functional additives, a leading North American producer of timber treatment products and a leading European producer of water treatment products. We operate 27 facilities, employ approximately 4,500 associates worldwide and sell our products in more than 110 countries. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2017, we had total pro forma revenues of $2,136 million.

              We operate in a variety of end markets, including industrial and architectural coatings, construction materials, plastics, paper, printing inks, pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, fibers and films and personal care. Within these end markets, our products serve approximately 6,900 customers globally. Our production capabilities allow us to manufacture a broad range of functional TiO 2 products as well as specialty TiO 2 products that provide critical performance for our customers and sell at a premium for certain end-use applications. Our color pigments, functional additives and timber treatment products provide essential properties for our customers' end-use applications by enhancing the color and appearance of construction materials and delivering performance benefits in other applications such as corrosion and fade resistance, water repellence and flame suppression. We believe that our global footprint and broad product offerings differentiate us from our competitors and allow us to better meet our customers' needs.

              Our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments have been transformed in recent years and we have established ourselves as a market leader in each of the industries in which we operate. We invested $1.3 billion in our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments from January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2017 on acquisitions, restructuring and integration. We are currently implementing additional business improvements within our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to provide additional contributions to Adjusted EBITDA beginning in 2017 and to be completed by the end of 2018, which we refer to as our business improvement program. If successfully implemented, we expect these plans to result in increased Adjusted EBITDA from general cost reductions, volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products) and further optimization of our manufacturing network including the closure of certain facilities. As a result of these efforts, we believe we are well-positioned to capitalize on a continued market recovery and related growth opportunities.

1


Table of Contents

              The table below summarizes the key products, end markets and applications, representative customers, revenues and sales information by segment:

GRAPHIC

Our Business

              We manufacture TiO 2 , functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment products. Our broad product range, coupled with our ability to develop and supply specialized products into technically exacting end-use applications, has positioned us as a leader in the

2


Table of Contents

markets we serve. In 2014, Huntsman acquired the performance additives and TiO 2 businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. ("Rockwood"), broadening our specialty TiO 2 product offerings and adding significant scale and capacity to our TiO 2 facilities. The Rockwood acquisition positioned us as a leader in the specialty and differentiated TiO 2 industry segments, which includes products that sell at a premium and have more stable margins. The Rockwood acquisition also provided us with complementary functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment businesses. We have 27 manufacturing facilities operating in 10 countries with a total nameplate production capacity of approximately 1.3 million metric tons per year. We operate eight TiO 2 manufacturing facilities in Europe, North America and Asia and 19 color pigments, functional additives, water treatment and timber treatment manufacturing and processing facilities in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2017, our pro forma revenues (excluding businesses retained by Huntsman) were $2,136 million. We believe recovery in TiO 2 margins to long term historical averages would result in a substantial increase in our profitability and cash flow.

      Titanium Dioxide Segment

              TiO 2 is derived from titanium bearing ores and is a white inert pigment that provides whiteness, opacity and brightness to thousands of everyday items, including coatings, plastics, paper, printing inks, fibers, food and personal care products. We are one of the six major producers of TiO 2 that collectively account for approximately 60% of global TiO 2 production capacity according to TZ Mineral International Pty Ltd. ("TZMI"), an independent consulting company that reports market data for the chemicals sector. Producers of the remaining 40% are primarily single-plant producers that focus on regional sales. We are among the three largest global TiO 2 producers, with nameplate production capacity of approximately 782,000 metric tons per year, accounting for approximately 11% of global TiO 2 production capacity. We are able to manufacture a broad range of TiO 2 products from functional to specialty. Our specialty products generally sell at a premium into specialized applications such as fibers, catalysts, food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Our production capabilities are distinguished from some of our competitors because of our ability to manufacture TiO 2 using both sulfate and chloride manufacturing processes, which gives us the flexibility to tailor our products to meet our customers' needs. By operating both sulfate and chloride processes, we also have the ability to use a wide range of titanium feedstocks, which enhances the competitiveness of our manufacturing operations, by providing flexibility in the selection of raw materials. This helps insulate us from price fluctuations for any particular feedstock and allows us to manage our raw material costs.

      Performance Additives Segment

              Functional Additives.     Functional additives are barium and zinc based inorganic chemicals used to make colors more brilliant, coatings shine, plastic more stable and protect products from fading. We believe we are the leading global manufacturer of zinc and barium functional additives. The demand dynamics of functional additives are closely aligned with those of functional TiO 2 given the overlap in applications served, including coatings and plastics.

              Color Pigments.     We are a leading global producer of colored inorganic pigments for the construction, coating, plastics and specialty markets. We are one of three global leaders in the manufacture and processing of liquid, powder and granulated forms of iron oxide color pigments. We also sell natural and synthetic inorganic pigments and metal carboxylate driers. The cost effectiveness, weather resistance, chemical and thermal stability and coloring strength of iron oxide make it an ideal colorant for construction materials, such as concrete, brick and roof tile, and for coatings and plastics. We produce a wide range of color pigments and are the world's second largest manufacturer of technical grade ultramarine blue pigments, which have a unique blue shade and are widely used to correct colors, giving them a desirable clean, blue undertone. These attributes have resulted in

3


Table of Contents

ultramarine blue being used world-wide for polymeric applications such as construction plastics, food packaging, automotive polymers, consumer plastics, coatings and cosmetics.

              Timber Treatment and Water Treatment.     We manufacture wood protection chemicals used primarily in residential and commercial applications to prolong the service life of wood through protection from decay and fungal or insect attack. Wood that has been treated with our products is sold to consumers through major branded retail outlets. We also manufacture water treatment chemicals that are used to improve water purity in industrial, commercial and municipal applications. Our key markets for water treatment chemicals are municipal and industrial waste water treatment and the paper industry.

Industry Overview and Market Outlook

              Global TiO 2 sales in 2016 exceeded 6.0 million metric tons, generating approximately $12.6 billion in industry-wide revenues based on data provided by TZMI. The global TiO 2 market is highly competitive, and competition is based primarily on product price, quality and technical service. We face competition from producers using the chloride process as well as those using the sulfate process. Due to the ease of transporting TiO 2 , there is also competition between producers with facilities in different geographies. Over the last decade, there has been substantial growth in TiO 2 demand in emerging economies, notably Asia. The growing demand in Asia has consumed the majority of Chinese production. We operate primarily in markets where our product quality and service are valued or preferred by our customers and differentiate us from Chinese TiO 2 competitors. Cost advantages are typically driven by the scale of the plant, type of feedstock, source of energy and cost of local labor. We are generally able to reduce production costs by finding innovative solutions to convert the by-products arising from our sulfate process into value-adding co-products. Today, approximately 60% of all by-products of our sulfate processes are sold as co-products, and we are one of the largest producers of sulfate co-products in the world, including gypsum, copperas and other iron salts. The profitability of a plant is not solely related to its cost structure, but also importantly to its slate of manufactured products. We believe our differentiated and specialty products, along with our ability to profitably commercialize the associated co-products, enhance our plants' overall efficiency and resulting profitability. With our competitive cost structure, and our slate of differentiated and specialty products, we believe we are well positioned to compete in a cyclical market.

              The primary raw materials that are used to produce TiO 2 are various types of titanium feedstock, which include ilmenite, rutile, titanium slag (chloride slag and sulfate slag) and synthetic rutile. According to TZMI, the world market for titanium-bearing ores has a diverse range of suppliers with the four largest accounting for approximately 40% of global supply. The majority of the titanium-bearing ores market is transacted on short-term contracts, or longer-term volume contracts with market-based pricing re-negotiated several times per year. This form of market-based ore contract provides flexibility and responsiveness in terms of pricing and quantity obligations.

              Historically, the market for large volume TiO 2 applications, including coatings, paper and plastics, has experienced alternating periods of tight supply, causing prices and margins to increase, followed by periods of lower capacity utilization, resulting in declining prices and margins. The volatility this market experiences occurs as a result of significant changes in the demand for products as a consequence of global economic activity and changes in customers' requirements. The supply-demand balance is also impacted by capacity additions or reductions that result in changes of utilization rates. In addition, TiO 2 margins are impacted by significant changes in major input costs such as energy and feedstock.

              Profitability for TiO 2 reached a peak in 2011, with significantly higher demand, prices and margins. Based on publicly available information, we believe that during this period of peak profitability many TiO 2 peer companies, including Huntsman's TiO 2 business, generated EBITDA margins in excess

4


Table of Contents

of 25%. Following the peak, utilization rates dropped in 2012 as demand fell due to weaker economic conditions, industry de-stocking and the addition of new TiO 2 capacity. There was an associated decline in prices and margins. Over the following three years, demand recovered slowly; however, this modest demand improvement did not result in any significant increase in operating rates, and TiO 2 prices consequently declined throughout the period. After reaching a trough in the first quarter of 2016, supply/demand fundamentals began improving in 2016 primarily due to strong global demand growth and some capacity rationalizations. Though the TiO 2 market has shown signs of recovery, prices and margins remain below long term historical averages. With the expectation of global capacity utilization rate improvements and further price increases, TiO 2 margins are expected to increase. With approximately 70% of our revenue during the twelve months ended March 31, 2017 being derived from TiO 2 sales, we believe recovery in TiO 2 margins to historical averages should result in increased profitability and cash flow generation.

              We estimate that the global demand for iron oxide pigments was approximately 1.3 million metric tons per year for 2016. Approximately 45% of this demand was generated from Asia, with Europe representing approximately 23% of demand and North America representing approximately 21% of demand. The construction industry consumes approximately 45% of colored iron oxide pigments, where the products are used for the coloring of manufactured concrete products such as paving tiles and precast roof tiles as well as for coloring cast in place concrete such as ready-mix, stucco and mortar. Industrial and architectural coatings represent the second largest segment for iron oxides (approximately 30% of total demand), where these pigments bring color, opacity and fade resistance to a variety of solvent and water-borne coating systems. Growth in the demand for iron oxide pigments is therefore closely linked to demand in the construction and coatings industries.

              We sell more than 90% of our functional additives products into coatings and plastics end markets. The demand dynamics for functional additives are therefore similar to those of TiO 2 . Over the last five years, there has been strong growth in demand for functional additives in specific applications such as white biaxially-oriented polyethylene terephthalate ("BOPET") films. Final applications of these films include flat panel displays for televisions, labels and medical diagnostic devices. The demand for ultramarine blue pigments is primarily driven by the plastics industry, with approximately two-thirds of all ultramarine pigments used as colorants in polymeric materials such as packaging, automotive components and consumer plastics.

Our Competitive Strengths

              We are committed to continued value creation for our customers and shareholders by focusing on our competitive strengths, including the following:

    Well-Positioned to Capitalize on TiO 2 Market Recovery and Growth Opportunities.   We believe that our Titanium Dioxide segment is well-positioned to take advantage of an improvement in the TiO 2 industry cycle. TZMI estimates that global TiO 2 demand grew by approximately 8% in 2016 while production capacity grew by approximately 1%. We expect this growth in demand to create an environment favorable for TiO 2 price increases. We realized approximately $300 per metric ton improvement in pricing over the course of 2016. TZMI estimates that the market price of global high quality TiO 2 will grow by more than $600 per metric ton, the equivalent of more than 24%, from December 31, 2016 through the end of 2017. We have announced price increases for each of the first three quarters of 2017: $160 per metric ton in the first quarter, $250 per metric ton in the second quarter and an additional $250 per metric ton in the third quarter. With approximately 782,000 metric tons of annual nameplate production capacity, we believe that we are well-positioned to capitalize on recovering TiO 2 demand and prices. According to TZMI, most North American and European plants are currently running at full operating rates with long delivery lead times. If prices continue to increase in and beyond 2017, and as capacity utilization increases globally,

5


Table of Contents

      TiO 2 margins are expected to increase. Additionally, with specialty and differentiated products accounting for approximately half of our 2016 TiO 2 sales, we believe we can benefit from our attractive market positioning throughout the cycle.

    Successful Implementation of Business Transformations.   We have a strong track record of successfully implementing business transformations and have been optimizing our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments for the past several years. We invested $1.3 billion from January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2017 on acquisitions, restructuring and integration. With these projects, we have positioned ourselves to take advantage of increased demand and product prices during the industry's recovery cycle. Specifically, our Rockwood acquisition and subsequent integration and restructuring provided us the ability to (i) target more specialty and differentiated end markets that yield higher and more stable margins and (ii) deliver more than $200 million of annual cost synergies in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014 pro forma for the acquisition of Rockwood. We believe our investment in restructuring and acquisitions has materially improved our competitive position and operational profile relative to our competitors, which has positioned us to capitalize on growth opportunities. We are currently implementing additional business improvements within our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to be completed by the end of 2018.

    Global Producer with Leading Market Positions.   We are a leading global producer in many of our key product lines. We are one of the six major producers of TiO 2 , and we are among the three largest TiO 2 producers, with nameplate production capacity of approximately 782,000 metric tons per year, accounting for approximately 11% of global TiO 2 production capacity. We believe we are the leader in the specialty TiO 2 industry segment, which includes products that sell at a premium and have more stable margins. We believe we are the TiO 2 market leader in the fibers and films, cosmetics and food end markets, and are at the forefront of innovation in these applications, with an exciting pipeline of new products and developments that we believe will further enhance our competitive position. We have a leading position in differentiated markets, including performance plastics and printing inks, as well as in a variety of niche market segments where innovation and specialization are high. We believe the differentiation of our products allows us to generate greater growth prospects and stronger customer relationships.

    We believe we are the leading global manufacturer of zinc and barium functional additives, including the only producer of zinc sulfide and the largest global supplier of synthetic barium sulfate, with nameplate capacity to produce 100,000 metric tons of functional additives per year. We are a leading global producer of colored inorganic pigments for the construction materials, coating, plastics and specialty markets. We are one of three global leaders in the manufacture and processing of liquid, powder and granulated forms of iron oxide color pigments, producing approximately 95,000 metric tons per year. We also sell natural and synthetic inorganic pigments and metal carboxylate driers, and are the world's second largest manufacturer of technical grade ultramarine blue pigments.

    High Degree of Diversification Across End Markets, Geographies and Customers.   We operate a highly diversified, global business serving a variety of end markets, which provides us with the balance to help withstand weakness in any particular market segment. We have total nameplate production capacity of approximately 1.3 million metric tons per year through 27 manufacturing facilities operating in 10 countries around the world, which allows us to service the needs of both local and global customers. We have exposure to more than 10 end markets, including architectural coatings, industrial coatings, construction materials, plastics, paper, printing inks, fibers and films, pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, wood protection and water purification.

6


Table of Contents

      While our customers include some of the most recognizable names in their respective industries, during the year ended December 31, 2016, no single customer accounted for more than 10% of our Titanium Dioxide segment revenues or more than 10% of our Performance Additives segment revenues. We have exposure to both emerging and mature markets, and we believe our geographic mix positions us to take advantage of significant growth opportunities.

    Broad Manufacturing Network Enhances Relationships with Global Customers.   We maintain a global manufacturing and distribution network that enables us to serve customers worldwide in a timely and efficient manner. Our Titanium Dioxide segment operates eight TiO 2 manufacturing facilities in Europe, North America and Asia and our Performance Additives segment operates 19 color pigments, functional additives, water treatment and timber treatment manufacturing and processing facilities in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia. The location of our facilities allows us to be closer to our customers, which enables us to service our customers with greater speed, while reducing tariffs and transportation costs and increasing our cost competitiveness. Approximately 85% of our TiO 2 sales are made directly to customers through our own global sales and technical services network, enabling us to work directly with our customers.

    Product Innovation and Technical Services to Grow Our Business.   We maintain a vibrant pipeline of new product developments that are closely aligned with the needs of our customers. Approximately 7% of our 2016 revenues generated by TiO 2 originate from products launched in the last five years. In the specialty markets, which have demanding requirements, more than 20% of our revenues are generated from products commercialized in the last five years. We believe that our technical expertise and knowledge of our customers' applications is a source of significant competitive advantage, particularly in specialty applications. We also believe that our business is recognized by customers as the leading innovator in many applications. Our innovations pipeline is focused on differentiated and more specialized product offerings for printing inks, industrial coatings, performance plastics, cosmetics, food and fibers. Although TiO 2 is primarily known for its opacifying properties, our expertise has also enabled us to unlock additional functionality from the TiO 2 crystal and our teams are at the leading edge of innovations in ultraviolet ("UV") absorption technology, solar reflectance and catalytic applications. As an example, our UV technology is critical to the development of sunscreens, and our catalyst technology has enabled us to produce TiO 2 particles that strip pollutants from exhaust gases and help to remove nitrogen and sulfur contaminants from refinery process streams.

    Strong Management Team Driving Results.   We have a strong executive management team that combines deep industry experience with proven leadership. Simon Turner, our President and Chief Executive Officer, previously served as President of the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman. He has been employed in the Pigments division for 27 years and his wealth of experience brings an immediate, demonstrated track record of success to Venator. Mr. Turner led the successful transformation of our business during the industry's recovery cycle and the successful integration of our Rockwood acquisition, providing us the ability to (i) target more specialty and differentiated end markets that yield higher and more stable margins and (ii) deliver more than $200 million of annual cost synergies in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014 pro forma for the acquisition of Rockwood.

    Kurt Ogden, our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, previously served as Huntsman's Vice President, Investor Relations and Finance, Russ Stolle, our Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, previously served as Huntsman's Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel and Mahomed Maiter, our Senior Vice

7


Table of Contents

      President, White Pigments, previously served as Huntsman's Vice President, Revenue/Global Sales and Marketing. Together, they bring more than 75 years of experience in the chemicals industry, strong relationships with financial market participants and a history of success as part of Huntsman's senior management team.

Our Business Strategies

              We intend to leverage our strengths to accelerate growth and improve profitability by implementing the following strategies:

    Focus on Cash Flow Generation and Solid Balance Sheet.   We intend to focus on cash flow generation by optimizing our cost structure, working capital and capital allocation, including capital expenditures.

    We invested $1.3 billion from January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2017 on acquisitions, restructuring and integration. These restructuring and integration initiatives were substantially completed by the end of 2016. We believe we are now well positioned to reap the benefits of these initiatives. In addition, we are currently implementing our business improvement program within our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to be completed by the end of 2018. If successfully implemented, we expect these plans to result in increased Adjusted EBITDA from general cost reductions, volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products) and further optimization of our manufacturing network including the closure of certain facilities.

    We intend to continue to focus on managing fixed costs, increasing productivity and optimizing our manufacturing footprint in each of our segments. We expect that we will have a moderate amount of leverage upon completion of this offering and will not assume any environmental or legal liabilities from Huntsman which are not directly related to our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses. If the TiO 2 industry cycle continues to improve and we succeed in realizing our identified business improvements, we expect to generate higher Adjusted EBITDA and cash flow and improve our leverage ratios and strengthen our balance sheet.

    Continue to Drive Operational Excellence and Efficiency Using Innovative and Sustainable Practices. We intend to pursue profitable growth for our shareholders and operational excellence and efficiency for our customers while continuing our commitment to safety, sustainability and innovation. We plan to continue to improve our operational efficiency by moderating our capacity and managing our cash and working capital demands. We have effectively restructured our facilities to adapt to market dynamics and maximize asset efficiency, closed plants as necessary to adjust for changing demand and expanded into new geographies when growth opportunities arose. We continue to exceed industry standards for sustainable practices and are committed to continuing our focus on environmentally conscious efforts, which is critical to our future success and vision.

    In our Titanium Dioxide segment, we have developed an asset portfolio that positions us as one of the leading differentiated TiO 2 producers in the world, with the ability to flexibly meet customers' demands for both sulfate and chloride TiO 2 . This has allowed us to reduce our exposure to more commoditized TiO 2 applications, while growing our position in the higher value differentiated applications where there is a greater need for technical expertise and client service. We have positioned ourselves to benefit from improving market demand and prices, and we intend to continue to evaluate industry dynamics to ensure that our strategic position remains flexible and adaptable. We believe our specialty business is three times larger than that of our next closest competitor.

8


Table of Contents

      In our Performance Additives segment, we have reviewed and rationalized our asset and product portfolio to position us as a competitive, high quality additives supplier into construction materials, coatings and plastics end-use applications. We continue to optimize our global manufacturing network to reduce operational costs and improve service. We have strong positions in barium and zinc products, ultramarine blue, iron oxides and timber treatment. Our customers value our ability to tailor colors and products to meet their exacting specifications.

      Through the restructuring and integration of the Rockwood businesses, including work force reductions, variable and fixed cost optimization and facility closures, we have delivered more than $200 million of annual cost synergies in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014 pro forma for the acquisition of Rockwood and we will continue to seek opportunities to further optimize our business.

    Leverage Leadership and Innovation to Drive Growth.   We plan to leverage management's experience in prior business optimization, restructuring and integration to continue creating leaner business segments to effectively manage costs and drive profitability. We have experienced success in recent cost management programs and plan to continue careful oversight of our cost structure and revenue selections in order to further growth.

    We continue to focus on using our industry leading technology, innovation and sustainability practices to develop differentiated cutting edge products that meet the needs of our global customers.

    In addition, we benefit from our technical expertise and our ability to provide end-to-end solutions to our customers. We provide our customers with a range of support that includes guidance on the selection of the appropriate products, advice on regulatory aspects and recommendations on the testing of products in final applications. We plan to continue to leverage our technical expertise and knowledge in order to provide an optimal customer platform that is conducive to future growth.

Our Relationship with Huntsman

              We are currently a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman and all of our outstanding ordinary shares are indirectly owned by Huntsman. Upon the completion of this offering, we will be a stand-alone public company and Huntsman, through HHN, will own            % of our outstanding ordinary shares, or            % if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full. Huntsman currently intends to monetize its retained ownership stake in Venator following this offering. Subject to prevailing market and other conditions (including the terms of Huntsman's lock-up agreement), this future monetization may be effected in multiple follow-on capital market or block transactions that permit an orderly distribution of Huntsman's retained shares.

              On May 22, 2017, Huntsman announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement to combine with Clariant AG ("Clariant"), a specialty chemicals company headquartered in Switzerland, in an all-stock merger. The combined company will be named HuntsmanClariant. Legacy Huntsman and Clariant shareholders are expected to own 48% and 52% of the combined company, respectively. The board of directors of the combined company is expected to have equal representation from the legacy Huntsman and Clariant boards. The merger is expected to close by year-end 2017, subject to Huntsman and Clariant shareholder approvals, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The merger agreement permits Huntsman to proceed with our initial public offering and we currently expect to complete the initial public offering prior to the closing of the merger.

9


Table of Contents

The Separation

              Prior to and in preparation for the completion of this offering, Huntsman and its subsidiaries will complete an internal reorganization, which we refer to in this prospectus as the "internal reorganization," in order to transfer to us the entities, assets, liabilities and obligations that we will hold following the separation of our business from Huntsman's other businesses. Such internal reorganization may take the form of asset transfers, dividends, contributions and similar transactions, and may involve the formation of new subsidiaries in U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions to own and operate the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business in such jurisdictions. Among other things and subject to limited exceptions, the internal reorganization will result in us owning, directly or indirectly, the operations comprising, and the entities that conduct, the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business.

              In addition, we and Huntsman will enter into a separation agreement to effect the separation of our business from Huntsman following this offering. The separation agreement includes provisions to address the impact, if any, of Huntsman's pending lawsuit against Rockwood, and the insurance proceeds and reconstruction costs relating to the January 2017 Pori facility fire, which is described in further detail in "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business."

              We will also enter into ancillary agreements with Huntsman that will govern certain interactions, including with respect to employee matters, tax matters, transition services and registration rights. In addition, in anticipation of this offering, we intend to enter into Financings. For a description of the Financings, see "—Recent Developments—Financing Arrangements." We refer to the internal reorganization, the separation transactions, including the entry into and effectiveness of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, and the Financings, including the use of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt owed to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses, as the "separation." For a description of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, see "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company" and the historical and pro forma financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus. The terms of these agreements may be more or less favorable to us than if they had been negotiated with unaffiliated third parties. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Relationship with Huntsman."

Reasons for Separation from Huntsman

              Our separation from Huntsman is expected to provide each company with a number of material opportunities and benefits, including the following:

    creating two separate businesses that will be industry leaders in their respective areas of operations;

    allowing investors to evaluate the separate investment identities of each company, including the distinct merits, performance and future prospects of their respective businesses;

    creating two separate capital structures that will afford each company direct access to the debt and equity capital markets to fund their respective growth strategies and to establish an appropriate capital structure for their business needs;

    enhancing the ability of each company to focus on their respective businesses and unique opportunities for long-term growth and profitability and to allocate capital and corporate resources in a manner that focuses on achieving each company's own strategic priorities;

    providing each company with increased flexibility to pursue strategic alternatives, including acquisitions and mergers, without having to consider the potential impact on the businesses

10


Table of Contents

      of the other company, including funding such acquisitions using their respective common equity; and

    improving each company's ability to attract and retain individuals with the appropriate skill sets as well as to better align compensation and incentives, including equity compensation, with the performance of these different businesses.

Risks Affecting Our Business

              Investing in our ordinary shares involves a high degree of risk. You should carefully consider the risks described in "Risk Factors" before making a decision to invest in our ordinary shares. If any of these risks actually occur, our business, financial condition and results of operations would likely be negatively affected. In such case, the trading price of our ordinary shares would likely decline, and you may lose part or all of your investment. These risks include, but are not limited to:

    Our industry is affected by global economic factors, including risks associated with volatile economic conditions.

    The market for many of our TiO 2 products is cyclical and volatile, and we may experience depressed market conditions for such products.

    The industries in which we compete are highly competitive, and we may not be able to compete effectively with our competitors that have greater financial resources or those that are vertically integrated, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

    The classification of TiO 2 as a Category 2 Carcinogen in the European Union could decrease demand for our products and subject us to manufacturing regulations that could significantly increase our costs.

    Disruptions in production at our manufacturing facilities may have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations and/or financial condition.

    Significant price volatility or interruptions in supply of raw materials and energy may result in increased costs that we may be unable to pass on to our customers, which could reduce our profitability.

    Our pension and postretirement benefit plan obligations are currently underfunded, and under certain circumstances we may have to significantly increase the level of cash funding to some or all of these plans, which would reduce the cash available for our business.

    Our results of operations may be adversely affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates and tax rates.

    Our efforts to transform our business may require significant investments; if our strategies are unsuccessful, our business, results of operations and/or financial condition may be materially adversely affected.

    If we are unable to successfully implement our cost reduction program and related strategic initiatives, we may not realize the benefits we anticipate from such programs or may incur additional and/or unexpected costs in order to realize them.

    Our indebtedness will be substantial and a significant portion of our indebtedness will be subject to variable interest rates. Our indebtedness may make us more vulnerable to economic downturns and may limit our ability to respond to market conditions, to obtain additional financing or to refinance our debt. We may also incur more debt in the future.

11


Table of Contents

    We are subject to many environmental, health and safety laws and regulations that may result in unanticipated costs or liabilities, which could reduce our profitability.

    Our operations involve risks that may increase our operating costs, which could reduce our profitability.

    Our business is dependent on our intellectual property. If we are unable to enforce our intellectual property rights and prevent use of our intellectual property by third parties, our ability to compete may be adversely affected.

    Our flexibility in managing our labor force may be adversely affected by existing or new labor and employment laws and policies in the jurisdictions in which we operate, many of which are more onerous than those of the United States; and some of our labor force has substantial workers' council or trade union participation, which creates a risk of disruption from labor disputes.

Recent Developments

Financing Arrangements

              In connection with this offering, we intend to enter into new financing arrangements and expect to incur up to $750 million of new debt, which will include (i) $375 million of senior unsecured notes and (ii) borrowings of $375 million under a new senior secured term loan facility with a maturity of seven years (the "term loan facility").

              On June 29, 2017, Venator Materials LLC (f/k/a Venator Materials Corporation), a Delaware limited liability company, and Venator Finance S.à r.l. (together the "subsidiary issuers"), each of which will be our wholly owned subsidiary as of the completion of this offering, announced the pricing of $375 million aggregate principal amount of 5.75% senior notes due 2025 (the "senior notes") in a private placement to qualified institutional buyers in reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act and outside the United States to certain non-U.S. persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The sale of the senior notes is expected to close on or about July 14, 2017, subject to customary conditions, and the proceeds will be funded into escrow to be released upon the closing of this offering. In addition to the term loan facility and the senior notes, we also expect to enter into a $300 million asset-based revolving lending facility with a maturity of five years (the "ABL facility" and, together with the term loan facility, the "senior credit facilities"). The senior credit facilities are expected to close concurrently with the closing of this offering. For additional information regarding the senior notes and the senior credit facilities, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Arrangements."

              We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Venator had intercompany debt outstanding to Huntsman of $894 million and $882 million, respectively. Prior to, or concurrently with, the closing of this offering, all of our outstanding debt with Huntsman will be repaid, capitalized or otherwise eliminated. The agreement to issue, and the issuance of, the senior notes and the agreements governing the senior credit facilities and the borrowings thereunder from the term loan facility are collectively referred to herein as the "Financings."

12


Table of Contents

Preliminary Estimate of Selected Second Quarter 2017 Financial Results and Other Information

              Although our results of operations as of and for the three months ended June 30, 2017 are not yet final, based on currently available information, the following table includes preliminary expected financial information for the quarter ended June 30, 2017:

 
  Three Months Ended
June 30, 2017
  Three Months Ended
June 30, 2016
 
 
  (estimated)
  (unaudited)
 
 
  (in millions)
 

Revenues :

             

Titanium Dioxide

  $                $               

Performance Additives

             

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(1) :

             

Titanium Dioxide

  $ [range]   $               

Performance Additives

    [range]        

(1)
Adjusted EBITDA, as presented on a segment basis, is the measure of profit or loss reported to the chief operating decision maker for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to each segment and assessing its performance. As noted elsewhere in this prospectus, following this offering, we expect these segments to be burdened annually by an approximate incremental $33 to $38 million (before depreciation and amortization) of selling, general and administrative expense (relating to stand-alone public company expense) in the aggregate. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations," as well as note "24. Operating Segment Information" to our combined financial statements and note "12. Operating Segment Information" to our unaudited condensed combined financial statements. for the definition of Adjusted EBITDA and additional information regarding Segment Adjusted EBITDA.

              We estimate that our Titanium Dioxide segment revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2017 were $             million, as compared to $            million for the three months ended June 30, 2016. We further estimate that Segment Adjusted EBITDA for our Titanium Dioxide segment was within a range of $             million to $             million for the three months ended June 30, 2017, as compared to $             million for the same period in 2016.

              We estimate that our Performance Additives segment revenues for the three months ended June 30, 2017 were $             million, as compared to $             million for the three months ended June 30, 2016. We estimate that Segment adjusted EBITDA for our Performance Additives segment was within a range of $             million to $             million for the three months ended June 30, 2017, as compared to $             million for the same period in 2016.

Titanium Dioxide Segment

              Revenues for the Titanium Dioxide segment for the three months ended June 30, 2017 are expected to be positively impacted by higher average selling prices, offset by lower sales volumes as a result of the fire at our Pori, Finland titanium dioxide facility. Average selling prices are expected to be higher primarily due to continued improvement in business conditions for titanium dioxide. See "—TiO 2 Pricing" below. Sales volumes are expected to decrease as a result of the fire at our Pori facility, but we do not expect that to have a material impact on our second quarter Segment Adjusted EBITDA as we have been prepaid business interruption insurance for the quarter. The increase in Segment Adjusted EBITDA is expected to primarily result from higher average selling prices for titanium dioxide and lower costs resulting from restructuring savings.

13


Table of Contents

Performance Additives Segment

              Revenues for the Performance Additives segment for the second quarter of 2017 are expected to be [positively/negatively] impacted by [period-to-period drivers to come]. The [increase/decrease] in Segment Adjusted EBITDA is expected to result from [describe material drivers].

Cautionary Note

              We have prepared these estimates on a materially consistent basis with the financial information presented elsewhere in this prospectus and in good faith based upon our internal reporting as of and for the three months ended June 30, 2017. These estimated ranges are preliminary and unaudited and are thus inherently uncertain and subject to change as we complete our financial results for the three months ended June 30, 2017. We are in the process of completing our customary quarterly close and review procedures as of and for the three months ended June 30, 2017, and there can be no assurance that our final results for this period will not differ from these estimates. During the course of the preparation of our consolidated financial statements and related notes as of and for the three months ended June 30, 2017, we or our independent registered public accountants may identify items that could cause our final reported results to be materially different from the preliminary financial estimates presented herein are set forth under the headings "Risk Factors," "Forward-Looking Statements," "Selected Historical Combined Financial Data," "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our audited combined financial statements, unaudited condensed combined financial statements and the related notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus.

              These estimates should not be viewed as a substitute for full interim financial statements prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. In addition, these preliminary estimates for the three months ended June 30, 2017 are not necessarily indicative of the results to be achieved for the remainder of 2017 or any future period. Our consolidated financial statements and related notes as of and for the three months ended June 30, 2017 are not expected to be filed with the SEC until after this offering is completed. Accordingly, undue reliance should not be placed on these preliminary estimates. This financial information has been prepared by and is the responsibility of our management. Our independent registered public accounting firm has not audited, reviewed or performed any procedures with respect to this preliminary financial data or the accounting treatment thereof and does not express an opinion or any other form of assurance with respect thereto and disclaims any association with, this information.

Pori Fire

              On January 30, 2017, our TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland experienced fire damage, and it is currently not fully operational. We are committed to repairing the facility as quickly as possible. We expect the Pori facility to restart in phases as follows: approximately 20% capacity in the second quarter of 2017; approximately 40% capacity in the second quarter of 2018; and full capacity around the end of 2018. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded a loss of $32 million for the write-off of fixed assets and lost inventory in other operating (income) expense, net in our condensed combined statements of operations (without taking into account the insurance recoveries discussed below). In addition, we recorded a loss of $4 million of costs for cleanup of the facility through March 31, 2017. The Pori facility has a nameplate capacity of up to 130,000 metric tons per year, which represents approximately 17% of our total TiO 2 nameplate capacity and approximately 2% of total global TiO 2 demand.

              The site is insured for property damage as well as business interruption losses subject to retained deductibles of $15 million and 60 days, respectively, with a limit of $500 million. The

14


Table of Contents

separation agreement provides that Venator will have the benefit of the property and business interruption insurance proceeds related to covered repair costs or covered lost profits incurred following this offering related to the Pori Fire. We have established a process with our insurer to receive timely advance payments for the reconstruction of the facility as well as lost profits. We expect to have pre-funded cash on our balance sheet resulting from these advance insurance payments. We have agreed with our insurer to have monthly meetings to review relevant site activities and interim claims as well as regular progress payments.

              On February 9, 2017, we received $54 million as an initial partial progress payment from our insurer. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded $32 million of income related to insurance recoveries in other operating (income) expense, net in our condensed combined statements of operations and we recorded $22 million as deferred income in accrued liabilities for costs not yet incurred. On May 2, 2017 and July 10, 2017, we received progress payments from our insurer of approximately $76 million and $11 million, respectively.

              If we experience delays in construction or equipment procurement relative to the expected restart of the Pori facility, or we lose customers to alternative suppliers or our insurance proceeds do not timely cover our property damage and other losses, our business may be adversely impacted. See "Risk Factors—Disruptions in production at our manufacturing facilities may have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations and/or financial condition."

TiO 2 Pricing

              TiO 2 prices steadily improved during 2016. After reaching a trough in the first quarter of 2016, prices have increased for each of the last four quarters. We realized approximately $300 per metric ton improvement in pricing over the course of 2016. Although the TiO 2 market has shown signs of recovery, prices and margins remain below long term historical averages. Management expects that global capacity utilization rates will continue to improve as supply and demand conditions continue to improve. TZMI estimates that global TiO 2 demand grew by 8% in 2016 while production capacity grew by about 1%. We expect this growth in demand to create an environment favorable for TiO 2 price increases. We have announced price increases for each of the first three quarters of 2017: $160 per metric ton in the first quarter, $250 per metric ton in the second quarter and an additional $250 per metric ton in the third quarter.

              The markets and industry in which we operate are cyclical and subject to competitive and economic dynamics and there can be no assurance that such price increases will be fully realized or not reversed in future periods. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to our Business—The market for many of our TiO 2 products is cyclical and volatile, and we may experience depressed market conditions for such products."

Business Improvement Program

              We are currently implementing business improvements in our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to provide additional contributions to Adjusted EBITDA beginning in 2017 and to be completed by the end of 2018. If successfully implemented, we expect the general cost reductions and optimization of our manufacturing network to result in increases to our Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $60 million per year by the first quarter of 2019, with additional projected increases to Adjusted EBITDA from volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products). We currently estimate that these business improvements will require approximately $90 million of cash restructuring costs through 2020. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—If we are unable to successfully implement our cost reduction program and related strategic initiatives, we may not realize the benefits we anticipate from such programs or may incur additional and/or unexpected costs in order to realize them."

15


Table of Contents

Other Information

              On April 28, 2017, we were incorporated under the laws of England and Wales as a public limited company. Our principal executive offices are located Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park, Stockton-On-Tees, TS22 5FD, United Kingdom. Our telephone number is +44(0) 1740 608 001. Our website address is www.venatorcorp.com , and it will be completed and become fully functional in connection with the completion of this offering. Information contained on our website is not incorporated by reference into this prospectus or the registration statement on Form S-1 of which this prospectus is a part, and you should not consider information on our website as part of this prospectus or such registration statement on Form S-1.

16


Table of Contents

 


The Offering

Ordinary shares offered by the selling shareholders

              shares by Huntsman International.

 

            shares by HHN.

 

            shares by HHN if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full.

Ordinary shares to be outstanding immediately after this offering:

 

            shares.

Ordinary shares to be held by Huntsman immediately after this offering

 

            shares.

 

            shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full.

Underwriters' option to purchase additional ordinary shares

 

HHN has granted the underwriters a 30-day option to purchase up to an additional            ordinary shares.

Use of proceeds

 

We will not receive any proceeds from the sale by the selling shareholders of our ordinary shares in this offering, including any ordinary shares offered if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares. See "Use of Proceeds."

Dividend policy

 

We do not intend to declare or pay any cash dividends on our ordinary shares for the foreseeable future. See "Dividend Policy."

Trading market and ticker symbol

 

We have been approved to list our ordinary shares on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") under the ticker symbol "VNTR."

Risk factors

 

You should carefully read and consider the information set forth in this prospectus before deciding to invest in our ordinary shares. See "Risk Factors."

17


Table of Contents



SUMMARY HISTORICAL COMBINED AND
PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

              Set forth below is a summary of our historical combined and pro forma condensed combined financial information for the periods indicated. The historical unaudited condensed combined financial information for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and the balance sheet data as of March 31, 2017 have been derived from our unaudited condensed combined financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. The historical unaudited condensed combined financial data as of March 31, 2016 has been derived from our unaudited accounting records not included in this prospectus. The unaudited condensed combined financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as our audited combined financial statements, except as stated in the related notes thereto, and include all normal recurring adjustments that, in the opinion of management, are necessary to present fairly our financial condition and results of operations for such periods. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 presented below are not necessarily indicative of results for the entire fiscal year. The historical combined financial information as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 has been derived from our audited combined financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. The historical combined financial information as of December 31, 2014 has been derived from our unaudited accounting records not included in this prospectus.

              The Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses have historically been included in Huntsman's financial results in different legal forms, including, but not limited to: (1) wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses were the sole businesses; (2) legal entities which are comprised of other businesses and include the Titanium Dioxide and/or Performance Additives businesses; and (3) variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses are the primary beneficiaries. Because our historical combined financial information for the periods indicated reflect the combination of these legal entities under common control, the historical combined financial information includes the results of operations of other Huntsman businesses that will not be a part of our operations following our separation from Huntsman. We will report the results of those other businesses as discontinued operations in our future financial statements for periods that include the date of completion of the separation. In addition, our historical combined financial information has been derived from Huntsman's historical accounting records and is presented on a stand-alone basis as if the operations of the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses had been conducted separately from Huntsman. However, the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses segments did not operate as a stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the historical combined financial statements may not be indicative of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows had the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses segments been a stand-alone company. See "Risks Related to Our Relationship with Huntsman—Our historical financial information may not be representative of the results we would have achieved as a stand-alone public company and may not be a reliable indicator of our future results."

              The historical combined statements of operations also include expense allocations for certain functions and centrally-located activities historically performed by Huntsman. These functions include executive oversight, accounting, procurement, operations, marketing, internal audit, legal, risk management, finance, tax, treasury, information technology, government relations, investor relations, public relations, financial reporting, human resources, ethics and compliance, and certain other shared services. These expense allocations do not reflect certain anticipated changes to our expenses as a result of the separation. For more information, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Factors Affecting Comparability of Our Historical Financial Results of Operations to Our Future Financial Results of Operations."

18


Table of Contents

              The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been derived from the historical combined financial statements included in this prospectus. The pro forma financial information eliminates the results of operations of other Huntsman businesses that will not be a part of our operations following this offering and otherwise gives effect to the separation of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses into a stand-alone, publicly traded company as a result of the separation. The pro forma adjustments are based on available information and assumptions that are factually supportable and that we believe are reasonable; however, such adjustments are subject to change based on the finalization of the terms of the separation, this offering and related transactions. Actual expenses could vary from this estimate and such variations could be material. The pro forma adjustments, including related tax effects, to reflect the separation and this offering are expected to include the following:

    the exclusion of operations, assets and liabilities of businesses that are not part of the Titanium Dioxide or Performance Additives businesses and that will be retained by Huntsman following the separation;

    the inclusion of accounts receivable previously sold into the accounts receivable securitization programs (the "A/R Programs") sponsored by Huntsman International by one of the legal entities comprising the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments because we will not participate in the Huntsman A/R Programs following the separation;

    the incurrence of $750 million of new indebtedness by us under the Financings and the application of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility therefrom to repay the intercompany indebtedness we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses, and an increase in interest expense resulting from the incurrence of the new indebtedness;

    the elimination of Huntsman's net investment in, and advances to, us and adjustments to additional paid-in capital;

    the issuance of                        of our ordinary shares to Huntsman in connection with the separation at a par value of $0.001 per share; and

    other adjustments described in the notes to the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

              In addition, we expect that our recurring selling, general and administrative costs to operate our business as a standalone public company will be lower than expenses historically allocated to us from Huntsman. Please see note (b) to "Note 2—Adjustment to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations" to our "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information."

              You should read the following summary financial information in conjunction with "Selected Historical Combined Financial Data," "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our audited combined financial statements, unaudited condensed combined financial statements and the notes to those statements included in this prospectus.

              The financial information presented below is not necessarily indicative of our future performance or what our financial position and results of operations would have been had we operated as a stand-alone public company during the periods presented, or in the case of the unaudited pro forma information, had the transactions reflected in the pro forma adjustments actually occurred as of the dates assumed. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information is for illustrative purposes only. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information

19


Table of Contents

constitutes forward-looking information and is subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those anticipated. See "Forward-Looking Statements."

 
   
   
   
   
   
  Pro Forma  
 
  Three Months
Ended March 31,
   
   
   
  Three
Months
Ended
March 31,
2017
   
 
 
  Year Ended December 31,   Year
Ended
December 31,
2016
 
 
  2017   2016   2016   2015   2014  
 
  (in millions)
 

Statement of Operations Data:

                                           

Revenues:

                                           

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 385   $ 392   $ 1,554   $ 1,583   $ 1,411   $ 385   $ 1,554  

Performance Additives

    152     148     585     577     138     152     585  

Other businesses

    32     45     170     170     180          

Total

  $ 569   $ 585   $ 2,309   $ 2,330   $ 1,729   $ 537   $ 2,139  

Net loss

  $ (13 ) $ (48 ) $ (77 ) $ (352 ) $ (162 ) $ [      ]   $ [      ]  

Balance Sheet Data (at period end):

                                           

Total assets

  $ 2,873   $ 3,400   $ 2,659   $ 3,413   $ 3,933   $ 2,380   $ 2,557  

Total long-term liabilities

    1,320     1,480     1,308     1,477     1,579     [      ]     [      ]  

Other Financial Data:

                                           

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(1)(2):

                                           

Titanium Dioxide(3)

  $ 48   $ (3 ) $ 61   $ (8 ) $ 62   $ 48   $ 61  

Performance Additives(3)

    21     18     69     69     14     21     69  

(1)
Relative to our pro forma Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additive segments for the year ended December 31, 2016, we expect these segments to be burdened annually by an approximate incremental $33 million to $38 million (before depreciation and amortization) of selling, general and administrative expense (relating to stand-alone public company expense) in the aggregate.

(2)
Adjusted EBITDA, as presented on a segment basis, is the measure of profit or loss reported to the chief operating decision maker for purposes of making decisions about allocating resources to each segment and assessing its performance. For further discussion of the non-GAAP financial measure Adjusted EBITDA, as well as a reconciliation of total Adjusted EBITDA to total net loss, its most directly comparable financial measure calculated in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the U.S. ("GAAP" or "U.S. GAAP"), please read "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Results of Operations," as well as note "24. Operating Segment Information" to our combined financial statements and note "12. Operating Segment Information" to our unaudited condensed combined financial statements.

(3)
On October 1, 2014, Huntsman completed the acquisition of the performance additives and TiO 2 businesses of Rockwood. Huntsman paid $1.02 billion in cash and assumed certain unfunded pension liabilities in connection with the Rockwood acquisition and subsequently contributed these businesses to our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments.

20


Table of Contents


RISK FACTORS

               You should carefully consider the information included in this prospectus, including the matters addressed under "Forward-Looking Statements," and the following risks.

               We are subject to certain risks and hazards due to the nature of the business activities we conduct. The risks discussed below, any of which could materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, cash flows, results of operations and share price, are not the only risks we face. We may experience additional risks and uncertainties not currently known to us or, as a result of developments occurring in the future, conditions that we currently deem to be immaterial may ultimately materially and adversely affect our business, financial condition, cash flows, results of operations and share price.

Risks Related to Our Business

Our industry is affected by global economic factors, including risks associated with volatile economic conditions.

              Our financial results are substantially dependent on overall economic conditions in the U.S., Europe and Asia. Declining economic conditions in all or any of these locations—or negative perceptions about economic conditions—could result in a substantial decrease in demand for our products and could adversely affect our business. The timing and extent of any changes to currently prevailing market conditions is uncertain, and supply and demand may be unbalanced at any time. Uncertain economic conditions and market instability make it particularly difficult for us to forecast demand trends. As a consequence, we may not be able to accurately predict future economic conditions or the effect of such conditions on our financial condition or results of operations. We can give no assurances as to the timing, extent or duration of the current or future economic cycles impacting the industries in which we operate.

              In addition, a large portion of our revenue and profitability is largely dependent on the TiO 2 industry. TiO 2 is used in many "quality of life" products for which demand historically has been linked to global, regional and local gross domestic product ("GDP") and discretionary spending, which can be negatively impacted by regional and world events or economic conditions. Such events are likely to cause a decrease in demand for our products and, as a result, may have an adverse effect on our results of operations and financial condition. The future profitability of our operations, and cash flows generated by those operations, will also be affected by the available supply of our products in the market.

The market for many of our TiO 2 products is cyclical and volatile, and we may experience depressed market conditions for such products.

              Historically, the market for large volume TiO 2 applications, including coatings, paper and plastics, has experienced alternating periods of tight supply, causing prices and margins to increase, followed by periods of lower capacity utilization resulting in declining prices and margins. The volatility this market experiences occurs as a result of significant changes in the demand for products as a consequence of global economic activity and changes in customers' requirements. The supply-demand balance is also impacted by capacity additions or reductions that result in changes of utilization rates. In addition, TiO 2 margins are impacted by significant changes in major input costs such as energy and feedstock. Demand for TiO 2 depends in part on the housing and construction industries. These industries are cyclical in nature and have historically been impacted by downturns in the economy. Relative changes in the selling prices for our products are one of the main factors that affect the level of our profitability. In addition, pricing may affect customer inventory levels as customers may from time to time accelerate purchases of TiO 2 in advance of anticipated price increases or defer purchases of TiO 2 in advance of anticipated price decreases.

21


Table of Contents

              The cyclicality and volatility of the TiO 2 industry results in significant fluctuations in profits and cash flow from period to period and over the business cycle. Primarily as a result of oversupply in the market, global prices for TiO 2 declined throughout 2015 before reaching a trough in the first quarter of 2016. Although we have recently successfully implemented price increases, any decline in selling prices in 2017 and beyond could negatively impact our business, results of operations and/or financial condition.

The industries in which we compete are highly competitive, and we may not be able to compete effectively with our competitors that have greater financial resources or those that are vertically integrated, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.

              The industries in which we operate are highly competitive. Among our competitors are companies that are vertically-integrated (those that have their own raw material resources). Changes in the competitive landscape could make it difficult for us to retain our competitive position in various products and markets throughout the world. Our competitors with their own raw material resources may have a competitive advantage during periods of higher raw material prices. In addition, some of the companies with whom we compete may be able to produce products more economically than we can. Furthermore, some of our competitors have greater financial resources, which may enable them to invest significant capital into their businesses, including expenditures for research and development.

              The global TiO 2 market is highly competitive, with the top six producers accounting for approximately 60% of the world's production capacity according to TZMI. Competition is based on a number of factors, such as price, product quality and service. Some of our competitors may be able to drive down prices for our products if their costs are lower than our costs. In addition, our TiO 2 business competes with numerous regional producers, including producers in China, who have significantly expanded their sulfate production capacity during the past five years and commenced the commercial production of TiO 2 via chloride technology. The risk of our customers substituting our products with those made by Chinese producers could increase as the Chinese producers expand their use of chloride production technology. Further, consolidation of our competitors or customers may result in reduced demand for our products or make it more difficult for us to compete with our competitors. The occurrence of any of these events could result in reduced earnings or operating losses.

              While we are engaged in a range of research and development programs to develop new products and processes, to improve and refine existing products and processes, and to develop new applications for existing products, the failure to develop new products, processes or applications could make us less competitive. Moreover, if any of our current or future competitors develops proprietary technology that enables them to produce products at a significantly lower cost, our technology could be rendered uneconomical or obsolete.

              Further, it is possible that we could abandon certain products, processes, or applications due to potential infringement of third-party intellectual property rights or that we could be named in future litigation for the infringement or misappropriation of a competitor's or other third party's intellectual property rights, which could include a claim for injunctive relief and damages, and, if so, such adverse results could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial position. In addition, certain of our competitors in various countries in which we do business, including China, may be owned by or affiliated with members of local governments and political entities. These competitors may get special treatment with respect to regulatory compliance and product registration, while certain of our products, including those based on new technologies, may be delayed or even prevented from entering into the local market.

              Certain of our businesses use technology that is widely available. Accordingly, barriers to entry, apart from capital availability, may be low in certain product segments of our business. The entrance of new competitors into the industry may reduce our ability to maintain margins or capture improving

22


Table of Contents

margins in circumstances where capacity utilization in the industry is increasing. Increased competition in any of our businesses could compel us to reduce the prices of our products, which could result in reduced margins and loss of market share and have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

The classification of TiO 2 as a Category 2 Carcinogen in the European Union could decrease demand for our products and subject us to manufacturing regulations that could significantly increase our costs.

              The European Union ("EU") adopted the Globally Harmonised System ("GHS") of the United Nations for a uniform system for the classification, labelling and packaging of chemical substances in Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008, the Classification, Labelling and Packaging Regulation ("CLP"). Pursuant to the CLP, an EU Member State can propose a classification for a substance to the European Chemicals Agency ("ECHA"), which upon review by ECHA's Committee for Risk Assessment ("RAC"), can be submitted to the European Commission for adoption by regulation. On May 31, 2016, the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety ("ANSES") submitted a proposal to ECHA that would classify TiO 2 as a Category 1B Carcinogen presumed to have carcinogenic potential for humans by inhalation. Huntsman, together with other companies, relevant trade associations and the European Chemical Industry Council ("Cefic"), submitted comments opposing any classification of TiO 2 as carcinogenic, based on evidence from multiple epidemiological studies covering more than 24,000 production workers at 18 TiO 2 manufacturing sites over several decades that found no increased incidence of lung cancer as a result of workplace exposure to TiO 2 and other scientific studies that concluded that the response to lung overload studies with poorly soluble particles upon which the ANSES proposed classification is based is unique to the rat and is not seen in other animal species or humans. On June 8, 2017, the RAC announced its conclusion that certain evidence meets the criteria under CLP to classify TiO 2 as a Category 2 Carcinogen (described by the EU regulation as appropriate for "suspected human carcinogens") for humans by inhalation, but found such evidence not sufficiently convincing to classify TiO 2 in Category 1B ("presumed" to have carcinogenic potential for humans), as was originally proposed by ANSES. The European Commission will now evaluate the RAC report in deciding what, if any, regulatory measures should be taken. Huntsman, Cefic and others expect to continue to advocate with the European Commission that the RAC's report should not justify other than minimal regulatory measures for the reasons stated above, among others. If the European Commission were to subsequently adopt the Category 2 Carcinogen classification, it could require that many end-use products manufactured with TiO 2 be classified as containing a potential carcinogenic component, which could negatively impact public perception of products containing TiO 2 , limit the marketability of and demand for TiO 2 or products containing TiO 2 and potentially have spill-over, restrictive effects under other EU laws, e.g., those affecting medical and pharmaceutical applications, cosmetics, food packaging and food additives. Such classifications would also affect manufacturing operations by subjecting us to new workplace requirements that could significantly increase costs. In addition, any classification, use restriction, or authorization requirement for use imposed by ECHA could trigger heightened regulatory scrutiny in countries outside the EU based on health or safety grounds, which could have a wider adverse impact geographically on market demand for and price of TiO 2 or other products containing TiO 2 and increase our compliance obligations outside the EU. It is also possible that heightened regulatory scrutiny would lead to claims by consumers of such products alleging adverse health impacts. Finally, the classification of TiO 2 as a Category 2 Carcinogen could lead the ECHA to evaluate other products with similar particle size characteristics such as iron oxides or functional additives for carcinogenic potential by inhalation for humans as well, which may ultimately have similar negative impacts to other of our products if classified as potentially carcinogenic. In addition, under the separation agreement, we are required to indemnify Huntsman for any liabilities relating to our TiO 2 operations.

23


Table of Contents

              Sales of TiO 2 in the European Union represented approximately 45% of our revenues for the twelve months ended March 31, 2017.

Disruptions in production at our manufacturing facilities may have a material adverse impact on our business, results of operations and/or financial condition.

              Manufacturing facilities in our industry are subject to planned and unplanned production shutdowns, turnarounds, outages and other disruptions. Any serious disruption at any of our facilities could impair our ability to use our facilities and have a material adverse impact on our revenues and increase our costs and expenses. Alternative facilities with sufficient capacity may not be available, may cost substantially more or may take a significant time to increase production or qualify with our customers, any of which could negatively impact our business, results of operations and/or financial condition. Long-term production disruptions may cause our customers to seek alternative supply which could further adversely affect our profitability.

              Unplanned production disruptions may occur for external reasons including natural disasters, weather, disease, strikes, transportation interruption, government regulation, political unrest or terrorism, or internal reasons, such as fire, unplanned maintenance or other manufacturing problems. Any such production disruption could have a material impact on our operations, operating results and financial condition. For example, a fire occurred in January 2017 at our TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland and the facility is currently not fully operational. We are committed to repairing the facility as quickly as possible and we anticipate a portion of our white end production will be operational during the second quarter of 2017 and full capacity to be available around the end of 2018. However, we may experience delays in construction or equipment procurement, and, even if we are able to resume production on this schedule, we may lose customers that have in the meantime found alternative suppliers elsewhere. Huntsman maintains property damage and business interruption insurance coverage subject to retained deductibles of $15 million and 60 days, respectively, with a limit of $500 million. If we experience delays in receiving the insurance proceeds our short term liquidity and earnings may be impacted. In addition, if the proceeds do not fully cover our property damage, business interruption, lost profits or other losses, this will adversely affect our earnings. Additionally, our premiums and deductibles may increase substantially as a result of the fire. The separation agreement will provide that we will have the benefit of the insurance proceeds related to covered costs incurred in connection with repairs or covered lost profits incurred following this offering.

              In addition, we rely on a number of vendors, suppliers and, in some cases, sole-source suppliers, service providers, toll manufacturers and collaborations with other industry participants to provide us with chemicals, feedstocks and other raw materials, along with energy sources and, in certain cases, facilities that we need to operate our business. If the business of these third parties is disrupted, some of these companies could be forced to reduce their output, shut down their operations or file for bankruptcy protection. If this were to occur, it could adversely affect their ability to provide us with the raw materials, energy sources or facilities that we need, which could materially disrupt our operations, including the production of certain of our products. Moreover, it could be difficult to find replacements for certain of our business partners without incurring significant delays or cost increases. All of these risks could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

              While we maintain business recovery plans that are intended to allow us to recover from natural disasters or other events that could disrupt our business, we cannot provide assurances that our plans would fully protect us from the effects of all such disasters or from events that might increase in frequency or intensity due to climate change. In addition, insurance may not adequately compensate us for any losses incurred as a result of natural or other disasters. In areas prone to frequent natural or other disasters, insurance may become increasingly expensive or not available at all. Furthermore, some

24


Table of Contents

potential climate-driven losses, particularly flooding due to sea-level rises, may pose long-term risks to our physical facilities such that operations cannot be restored in their current locations.

Significant price volatility or interruptions in supply of raw materials and energy may result in increased costs that we may be unable to pass on to our customers, which could reduce our profitability.

              Our manufacturing processes consume significant amounts of raw materials and energy, the costs of which are subject to worldwide supply and demand as well as other factors beyond our control. Variations in the cost for raw materials, and of energy, which primarily reflects market prices for oil and natural gas, may significantly affect our operating results from period to period. We purchase a substantial portion of our raw materials from third-party suppliers and the cost of these raw materials represents a substantial portion of our operating expenses. The prices of the raw materials that we purchase from third parties are cyclical and volatile. For example, according to TZMI, the prices of all feedstocks used for the production of TiO 2 increased 200% to 300% above historical averages in 2011 and 2012. Our supply agreements with our TiO 2 feedstock suppliers provide us only limited protection against price volatility as they are entered into either on a short-term basis or are longer-term volume contracts, which provide for market-based pricing. To the extent we do not have fixed price contracts with respect to specific raw materials, we have no control over the costs of raw materials and such costs may fluctuate widely for a variety of reasons, including changes in availability, major capacity additions or reductions, or significant facility operating problems. While we attempt to match cost increases with corresponding product price increases, we are not always able to raise product prices immediately or at all. Moreover, the outcome of these efforts is largely determined by existing competitive and economic conditions. Timing differences between raw material prices, which may change daily, and contract product prices, which in many cases are negotiated only monthly or less often, also have had and may continue to have a negative effect on our cash flow. Any raw materials or energy cost increase that we are not able to pass on to our customers could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

              There are several raw materials for which there are only a limited number of suppliers or a single supplier. For example, titanium-containing feedstocks suitable for use in our TiO 2 facilities are available from a limited number of suppliers around the world. To mitigate potential supply constraints, we enter into supply agreements with particular suppliers, evaluate alternative sources of supply and evaluate alternative technologies to avoid reliance on limited or sole-source suppliers. Where supply relationships are concentrated, particular attention is paid by the parties to ensure strategic intentions are aligned to facilitate long term planning. If certain of our suppliers are unable to meet their obligations under present supply agreements, we may be forced to pay higher prices to obtain the necessary raw materials from other sources and we may not be able to increase prices for our finished products to recoup the higher raw materials costs. Any interruption in the supply of raw materials could increase our costs or decrease our revenues, which could reduce our cash flow. The inability of a supplier to meet our raw material needs could have a material adverse effect on our financial statements and results of operations.

              The number of sources for and availability of certain raw materials is also specific to the particular geographical region in which a facility is located. Political and economic instability in the countries from which we purchase our raw material supplies could adversely affect their availability. In addition, if raw materials become unavailable within a geographic area from which they are now sourced, then we may not be able to obtain suitable or cost effective substitutes. We may also experience higher operating costs such as energy costs, which could affect our profitability. We may not always be able to increase our selling prices to offset the impact of any higher productions costs or reduced production levels, which could reduce our earnings and decrease our liquidity.

25


Table of Contents

Our pension and postretirement benefit plan obligations are currently underfunded, and under certain circumstances we may have to significantly increase the level of cash funding to some or all of these plans, which would reduce the cash available for our business.

              We have unfunded obligations under our domestic and foreign pension and postretirement benefit plans including certain unfunded pension obligations we assumed upon the consummation of our acquisition of the Performance Additives and Titanium Dioxide businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. The funded status of our pension plans is dependent upon many factors, including returns on invested assets, the level of certain market interest rates and the discount rate used to determine pension obligations. Unfavorable returns on the plan assets or unfavorable changes in applicable laws or regulations could materially change the timing and amount of required plan funding, which would reduce the cash available for our business. In addition, a decrease in the discount rate used to determine pension obligations could result in an increase in the valuation of pension obligations, which could affect the reported funding status of our pension plans and future contributions, as well as the periodic pension cost in subsequent fiscal years.

              With respect to our domestic pension and postretirement benefit plans, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation ("PBGC") has the authority to terminate an underfunded tax-qualified pension plan under limited circumstances in accordance with the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended. In the event our tax-qualified pension plans are terminated by the PBGC, we could be liable to the PBGC for the entire amount of the underfunding.

              With respect to our foreign pension and postretirement benefit plans, the effects of underfunding depend on the country in which the pension and postretirement benefit plan is established. For example, in the U.K. and Germany, semi-public pension protection programs have the authority, in certain circumstances, to assume responsibility for underfunded pension schemes, including the right to recover the amount of the underfunding from us.

Our results of operations may be adversely affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates and tax rates.

              Our headquarters operations are conducted across two of our administrative offices: The Woodlands, Texas and Wynyard, U.K. We conduct a majority of our business operations outside the U.S. Sales to customers outside the U.S. contributed approximately 75% of our revenue in 2016. Our operations are subject to international business risks, including the need to convert currencies received for our products into currencies in which we purchase raw materials or pay for services, which could result in a gain or loss depending on fluctuations in exchange rates. We transact business in many foreign currencies, including the euro, the British pound sterling and the Chinese renminbi. We translate our local currency financial results into U.S. dollars based on average exchange rates prevailing during the reporting period or the exchange rate at the end of that period. During times of a strengthening U.S. dollar, our reported international sales and earnings may be reduced because the local currency may translate into fewer U.S. dollars. Because we currently have significant operations located outside the U.S., we are exposed to fluctuations in global currency rates which may result in gains or losses on our financial statements.

              We operate in a significant number of jurisdictions, which contributes to the volatility of our effective tax rate. Changes in tax laws or the interpretation of tax laws in the jurisdictions in which we operate may affect our effective tax rate. In addition, GAAP has required us to place valuation allowances against our net operating losses and other deferred tax assets in a significant number of tax jurisdictions. These valuation allowances result from analysis of positive and negative evidence supporting the realization of tax benefits. Negative evidence includes a cumulative history of pre-tax operating losses in specific tax jurisdictions. Changes in valuation allowances have resulted in material fluctuations in our effective tax rate. Economic conditions may dictate the continued imposition of current valuation allowances and, potentially, the establishment of new valuation allowances. While

26


Table of Contents

significant valuation allowances remain, our effective tax rate will likely continue to experience significant fluctuations. Furthermore, certain foreign jurisdictions may take actions to delay our ability to collect value-added tax refunds.

The impact of changing laws or regulations or the manner of interpretation or enforcement of existing laws or regulations could adversely impact our financial performance and restrict our ability to operate our business or execute our strategies.

              New laws or regulations, or changes in existing laws or regulations or the manner of their interpretation or enforcement, could increase our cost of doing business and restrict our ability to operate our business or execute our strategies. This risk includes, among other things, the possible taxation under U.S. law of certain income from foreign operations, the possible taxation under foreign laws of certain income we report in other jurisdictions, and regulations related to the protection of private information of our employees and customers. In addition, compliance with laws and regulations is complicated by our substantial global footprint, which will require significant and additional resources to ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations in the various countries where we conduct business.

              Our global operations expose us to trade and economic sanctions and other restrictions imposed by the U.S., the EU and other governments and organizations. The U.S. Departments of Justice, Commerce, State and Treasury and other federal agencies and authorities have a broad range of civil and criminal penalties they may seek to impose against corporations and individuals for violations of economic sanctions laws, export control laws, the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (the "FCPA") and other federal statutes and regulations, including those established by the Office of Foreign Assets Control ("OFAC"). Under these laws and regulations, as well as other anti-corruption laws, anti-money-laundering laws, export control laws, customs laws, sanctions laws and other laws governing our operations, various government agencies may require export licenses, may seek to impose modifications to business practices, including cessation of business activities in sanctioned countries or with sanctioned persons or entities and modifications to compliance programs, which may increase compliance costs, and may subject us to fines, penalties and other sanctions. A violation of these laws or regulations could adversely impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.

              Although we have implemented policies and procedures in these areas, we cannot assure you that our policies and procedures are sufficient or that directors, officers, employees, representatives, manufacturers, supplier and agents have not engaged and will not engage in conduct for which we may be held responsible, nor can we assure you that our business partners have not engaged and will not engage in conduct that could materially affect their ability to perform their contractual obligations to us or even result in our being held liable for such conduct. Violations of the FCPA, OFAC restrictions or other export control, anti-corruption, anti-money-laundering and anti-terrorism laws or regulations may result in severe criminal or civil sanctions, and we may be subject to other liabilities, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, cash flows and results of operations.

Our substantial global operations subject us to risks of doing business in foreign countries, which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations.

              We expect sales from international markets to continue to represent a large portion of our sales in the future. Also, a significant portion of our manufacturing capacity is located outside of the U.S. Accordingly, our business is subject to risks related to the differing legal, political, cultural, social and regulatory requirements and economic conditions of many jurisdictions.

              Certain legal and political risks are also inherent in the operation of a company with our global scope. For example, it may be more difficult for us to enforce our agreements or collect receivables through foreign legal systems. There is a risk that foreign governments may nationalize private

27


Table of Contents

enterprises in certain countries where we operate. In certain countries or regions, terrorist activities and the response to such activities may threaten our operations more than in the United States. Social and cultural norms in certain countries may not support compliance with our corporate policies including those that require compliance with substantive laws and regulations. Also, changes in general economic and political conditions in countries where we operate are a risk to our financial performance and future growth.

              As we continue to operate our business globally, our success will depend, in part, on our ability to anticipate and effectively manage these and other related risks. There can be no assurance that the consequences of these and other factors relating to our multinational operations will not have an adverse effect on our business, financial condition or results of operations.

Our efforts to transform our businesses may require significant investments; if our strategies are unsuccessful, our business, results of operations and/or financial condition may be materially adversely affected.

              We intend to continuously evaluate opportunities for growth and change. These initiatives may involve making acquisitions, entering into partnerships and joint ventures, divesting assets, restructuring our existing assets and operations, creating new financial structures and building new facilities—any of which could require a significant investment and subject us to new kinds of risks. We may incur indebtedness to finance these opportunities. We could also issue our ordinary shares or securities of our subsidiaries to finance such initiatives. If our strategies for growth and change are not successful, we could face increased financial pressure, such as increased cash flow demands, reduced liquidity and diminished access to financial markets, and the equity value of our businesses could be diluted.

              The implementation of strategies for growth and change may create additional risks, including:

    diversion of management time and attention away from existing operations;

    requiring capital investment that could otherwise be used for the operation and growth of our existing businesses;

    disruptions to important business relationships;

    increased operating costs;

    limitations imposed by various governmental entities;

    use of limited investment and other baskets under our debt covenants;

    difficulties realizing projected synergies;

    difficulties due to lack of or limited prior experience in any new markets we may enter; and

    difficulty integrating acquired businesses or products with our existing businesses.

              Our inability to mitigate these risks or other problems encountered in connection with our strategies for growth and change could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, we may fail to fully achieve the savings or growth projected for current or future initiatives notwithstanding the expenditure of substantial resources in pursuit thereof.

If we are unable to successfully implement our business improvement program, we may not realize the benefits we anticipate from such program or may incur additional and/or unexpected costs in order to realize them.

              In order to position ourselves for the separation, we undertook a series of strategic, structural and process realignment and restructuring actions within our operations. In recent periods we have recorded restructuring charges in connection with closing certain plant locations, workforce reductions and other cost savings programs in each of our business segments. For example, we have delivered

28


Table of Contents

more than $200 million of annual cost synergies in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014 pro forma for the acquisition of Rockwood. However, we may not be able to realize the further benefits we have estimated such restructuring initiatives to produce in 2017, 2018 and 2019.

              We are currently implementing our business improvement plan within our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to provide additional contributions to Adjusted EBITDA beginning in 2017 and to be completed by the end of 2018. If successfully implemented, we expect the general cost reductions and optimization of our manufacturing network to result in increases to our Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $60 million per year by the first quarter of 2019, with additional projected increases to Adjusted EBITDA from volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products). We currently estimate that these business improvements will require approximately $90 million of cash restructuring costs through 2020. Cost savings expectations, as well as volume improvements, are estimates that are inherently difficult to predict and are necessarily speculative in nature, and we cannot provide assurance that we will achieve expected or any actual cost savings or volume improvements. A variety of factors could cause us not to realize some or all of the expected cost savings, including, among others, delays in the anticipated timing of activities related to our cost savings programs, lack of sustainability in cost savings over time, unexpected costs associated with operating our business, our ability to reduce headcount and our ability to achieve the efficiencies contemplated by the cost savings initiative. We may be unable to realize all of these cost savings or volume improvements within the expected timeframe, or at all, and we may incur additional or unexpected costs in order to realize them. These cost savings are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that are in turn based on our analysis of the various factors which currently, and could in the future, impact our business. These assumptions and estimates are inherently uncertain and subject to significant business, operational, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Certain of the assumptions relate to business decisions that are subject to change, including, among others, our anticipated business strategies, our marketing strategies, our product development strategies and our ability to anticipate and react to business trends. Other assumptions relate to risks and uncertainties beyond our control, including, among others, the economic environment in which we operate, environmental regulation and other developments in our industry as well as capital markets conditions from time to time. The actual results of implementing the various cost savings initiatives may differ materially from the estimates set out in this prospectus if any of these assumptions prove incorrect. Moreover, our continued efforts to implement these cost savings may divert management attention from the rest of our business and may preclude us from seeking attractive new product opportunities, any of which may materially and adversely affect our business.

If we are unable to innovate and successfully introduce new products, or new technologies or processes, our profitability could be adversely affected.

              Our industries and the end-use markets into which we sell our products experience periodic technological change and product improvement. Our future growth will depend on our ability to gauge the direction of commercial and technological progress in key end-use markets and on our ability to fund and successfully develop, manufacture and market products in such changing end-use markets. We must continue to identify, develop and market innovative products or enhance existing products on a timely basis to maintain our profit margins and our competitive position. We may be unable to develop new products or technology, either alone or with third parties, or license intellectual property rights from third parties on a commercially competitive basis. If we fail to keep pace with the evolving technological innovations in our end-use markets on a competitive basis, including with respect to innovation or the development of alternative uses for, or application of, our products, our financial condition and results of operations could be adversely affected. We cannot predict whether technological innovations will, in the future, result in a lower demand for our products or affect the competitiveness of our business. We may be required to invest significant resources to adapt to

29


Table of Contents

changing technologies, markets, competitive environments and laws and regulations. We cannot anticipate market acceptance of new products or future products. In addition, we may not achieve our expected benefits associated with new products developed to meet new laws or regulations if the implementation of such laws or regulations is delayed.

Differences in views with our joint venture participants may cause our joint ventures not to operate according to their business plans, which may adversely affect our results of operations.

              We currently participate in a number of joint ventures, including our joint venture in Lake Charles, Louisiana with Kronos Worldwide, Inc. ("Kronos") and our Harrisburg, North Carolina joint venture with The Dow Chemical Company ("Dow Chemical"), and may enter into additional joint ventures in the future. The nature of a joint venture requires us to share control with unaffiliated third parties. Differences in views among joint venture participants may result in delayed decisions or failure to agree on major decisions. If these differences cause the joint ventures to deviate from their business plans or to fail to achieve their desired operating performance, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

Construction projects are subject to numerous regulatory, environmental, legal and economic risks. We cannot assure you that any such project will be completed in a timely fashion or at all or that we will realize the anticipated benefits of any such project.

              Additions to or modifications of our existing facilities and the construction of new facilities involve numerous regulatory, environmental, legal and economic uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control. Expansion and construction projects may require the expenditure of significant amounts of capital. These projects may not be completed on schedule, at the budgeted cost or at all. If our projects are delayed materially or our capital expenditures for such projects increase significantly, our results of operations and cash flows could be adversely affected.

              Even if these projects are completed, there can be no assurance that we will realize the anticipated benefits of such projects. For example, we are now commissioning a new production facility in Augusta, Georgia, for the synthesis of iron oxide pigments, which we purchased from Rockwood. During commissioning, the facility has experienced delays producing products at the expected specifications and quantities, causing us to question the capabilities of the Augusta technology. Based on the facility's performance during the commissioning process, we have concluded that production capacity at our Augusta facility will be substantially lower than originally anticipated.

Our indebtedness will be substantial and a significant portion of our indebtedness will be subject to variable interest rates. Our indebtedness may make us more vulnerable to economic downturns and may limit our ability to respond to market conditions, to obtain additional financing or to refinance our debt. We may also incur more debt in the future.

              As of March 31, 2017, on a pro forma basis giving effect to the transactions described in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements, our total debt (including capital leases) would have been approximately $773 million. In addition, we expect to enter into an ABL facility with up to $300 million of commitments at the closing of this offering. Our anticipated debt level and the fact that a significant percentage of our cash flow will be required to make payments on our debt, could have important consequences for our business, including but not limited to the following:

    we may be more vulnerable to business, industry or economic downturns, making it more difficult to respond to market conditions;

    cash flow available for other purposes, including the growth of our business, may be reduced;

30


Table of Contents

    our ability to refinance or obtain additional financing may be constrained, particularly during periods when the capital markets are unsettled;

    our competitors with lower debt levels may have a competitive advantage relative to us; and

    part of our debt will be subject to variable interest rates, which makes us more vulnerable to increases in interest rates (for example, assuming all commitments were available and all loans under the ABL facility were fully drawn, a 1% increase in interest rates, without giving effect to interest rate hedges or other offsetting items, would increase our annual interest rate expense by approximately $7 million).

              In addition, our separation from Huntsman's other business may increase the overall cost of debt funding and decrease the overall capacity and commercial credit available to us. Our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows could be harmed by a deterioration of our credit profile or by factors adversely affecting the credit markets generally.

              Our ability to make scheduled payments on or refinance our debt obligations depends on our financial condition and operating performance, which are subject to prevailing economic and competitive conditions and to certain financial, business, legislative, regulatory and other factors beyond our control. We may be unable to maintain a level of cash flows from operating activities sufficient to permit us to pay the principal, premium, if any, and interest on our indebtedness. Our inability to generate sufficient cash flows to satisfy our debt obligations, or to refinance our indebtedness on commercially reasonable terms or at all, would materially and adversely affect our financial position and results of operations.

We are subject to many environmental, health and safety laws and regulations that may result in unanticipated costs or liabilities, which could reduce our profitability.

              Our properties and operations, including our global manufacturing facilities, are subject to a broad array of environmental, health and safety ("EHS") requirements, including extensive federal, state, local, foreign and international laws, regulations, rules and ordinances relating to pollution, protection of the environment and human health and safety, and the generation, storage, handling, transportation, treatment, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances and waste materials. There has been a been a global upward trend in the number and complexity of current and proposed EHS laws and regulations, including those relating to the chemicals used and generated in our operations and included in our products. The costs to comply with these EHS laws and regulations, as well as internal voluntary programs and goals, are significant and will continue to be significant in the foreseeable future.

              Our facilities are dependent on environmental permits to operate. These operating permits are subject to modification, renewal and revocation, which could have a material adverse effect on our operations and our financial condition. In addition, third parties may contest our ability to receive or renew certain permits that we need to operate, which can lengthen the application process or even prevent us from obtaining necessary permits. Moreover, actual or alleged violations of permit requirements could result in restrictions or prohibitions on our operations and facilities.

              In addition, we expect to incur significant capital expenditures and operating costs in order to comply with existing and future EHS laws and regulations. Capital expenditures and operating costs relating to EHS matters will be subject to evolving requirements, and the timing and amount of such expenditures and costs will depend on the timing of the promulgation of the requirements as well as the enforcement of specific standards.

              We are also liable for the costs of investigating and cleaning up environmental contamination on or from our currently-owned and operated properties. We also may be liable for environmental contamination on or from our formerly-owned and operated properties, and on or from third-party

31


Table of Contents

sites to which we sent hazardous substances or waste materials for disposal. In many circumstances, EHS laws and regulations impose joint, several, and/or strict liability for contamination, and therefore we may be held liable for cleaning up contamination at currently owned properties even if the contamination were caused by a former owner, or at third-party sites even if our original disposal activities were in accordance with all then existing regulatory requirements. Moreover, certain of our facilities are in close proximity to other industrial manufacturing sites. In these locations, the source of contamination resulting from discharges into the environment may not be clear. We could potentially be held responsible for such liabilities even if the contamination did not originate from our sites, and we may have to incur significant costs to respond to any remedies imposed, or to defend any actions initiated, by environmental agencies.

              Changes in EHS laws and regulations, violations of EHS law or regulations that result in civil or criminal sanctions, the revocation or modification of EHS permits, the bringing of investigations or enforcement proceedings against us by governmental agencies, the bringing of private claims alleging environmental damages against us, the discovery of contamination on our current or former properties or at third-party disposal sites, could reduce our profitability or have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial condition.

Many of our products and operations are subject to the chemical control laws of the countries in which they are located.

              We are subject to a wide array of laws governing chemicals, including the regulation of chemical substances and inventories under the Toxic Substances Control Act ("TSCA") in the U.S. and the Registration, Evaluation and Authorization of Chemicals ("REACH") regulation in Europe. Analogous regimes exist in other parts of the world, including China, South Korea, and Taiwan. In addition, a number of countries where we operate, including the U.K., have adopted rules to conform chemical labeling in accordance with the globally harmonized system. Many of these foreign regulatory regimes are in the process of a multi-year implementation period for these rules.

              Additional new laws and regulations may be enacted or adopted by various regulatory agencies globally. For example, the United States Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") finalized revisions to its Risk Management Program in January 2017. The revisions would impose new requirements for certain facilities to perform hazard analysis, third-party auditing, incident investigations and root cause analyses, emergency response exercises, and to publically share chemical and process information. Compliance for many of rule's new requirements would be required beginning in 2021. In March 2017, the EPA announced that it would reconsider the January 2017 revisions to the rule and, on June 9, 2017, the EPA delayed the effective date of the rule to February 19, 2019. The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration may also consider changes to its Process Safety Management standards. In addition, TSCA reform legislation was enacted in June 2016, and the EPA has begun the process of issuing new chemical control regulations. For example, the recent amendments to TSCA require the EPA to designate chemical substances on the TSCA Chemical Substance Inventory as either "active" or "inactive" in U.S. commerce. The EPA proposed a rule to do so on January 13, 2017. The costs of compliance with any new laws or regulations cannot be estimated until the manner in which they will be implemented has been more precisely defined.

              Furthermore, governmental, regulatory and societal demands for increasing levels of product safety and environmental protection could result in increased pressure for more stringent regulatory control with respect to the chemical industry. In addition, these concerns could influence public perceptions regarding our products and operations, the viability of certain products, our reputation, the cost to comply with regulations, and the ability to attract and retain employees. Moreover, changes in product safety and environmental protection regulations could inhibit or interrupt our operations, or require us to modify our facilities or operations. Accordingly, product safety and environmental matters may cause us to incur significant unanticipated losses, costs or liabilities, which could reduce our

32


Table of Contents

profitability. For example, several of our products are being evaluated under REACH regulations and their classification could negatively impact sales.

Our operations are increasingly subject to climate change regulations that seek to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.

              Our operations are increasingly subject to regulations that seek to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases, or GHGs, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which may be contributing to changes in the Earth's climate. There are existing efforts to address GHG emissions at the international, national, and regional levels. For example, the 2015 Paris climate summit agreement resulted in voluntary commitments by numerous countries to reduce their GHG emissions. The agreement entered into force on November 4, 2016 and could result in additional firm commitments by various nations with respect to future GHG emissions. However, in June 2017, President Trump announced that his administration intends to withdraw the U.S. from participation in the agreement. The EU also regulates GHGs under the EU Emissions Trading Scheme. China has begun pilot programs for carbon taxes and trading of GHG emissions in selected areas.

              In the U.S., the EPA issued its final Clean Power Plan rules that establish carbon pollution standards for power plants, called CO 2 emission performance rates, in 2015. In February 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court granted a stay of the implementation of the Clean Power Plan. This stay will remain in effect until the conclusion of the appeals process. On March 28, 2017, the Trump administration issued an executive order directing the EPA to review the Clean Power Plan. On the same day, the EPA filed a motion in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D. C. Circuit requesting that the court hold the case in abeyance while the EPA conducts its review of the Clean Power Plan. It is not yet clear what changes, if any, will result from the EPA's review, or how the courts will rule on the legality of the Clean Power Plan. If the rules survive the EPA's review, are upheld at the conclusion of this appellate process, and depending on how states decide to implement these rules, they may result in national or regional credit trading schemes. Collectively, these rules and agreements may affect the long-term price and supply of electricity and natural gas and demand for products that contribute to energy efficiency and renewable energy. These various regulations and agreements are likely to result in increased costs to purchased energy, additional capital costs for installation or modification of GHG emitting equipment, and additional costs associated directly with GHG emissions (such as cap and trade systems or carbon taxes), which are primarily related to energy use. Compliance with these regulations and any more stringent restrictions in the future may increase our operational costs.

              In addition, some scientists have concluded that increasing concentrations of GHGs in the Earth's atmosphere may produce climate changes that have significant physical effects, such as increased frequency and severity of storms, droughts, floods and other climatic events. If any such effects were to occur in areas where we or our clients operate, they could have an adverse effect on our assets and operations.

We may need additional capital in the future and may not be able to obtain it on favorable terms.

              Our Titanium Dioxide businesses are capital intensive, and our success depends to a significant degree on our ability to develop and market innovative products and to update our facilities and process technology. We may require additional capital in the future to finance our growth and development, implement further marketing and sales activities, fund ongoing research and development activities, and meet general working capital needs. Our capital requirements will depend on many factors, including acceptance of, and demand for, our products, the extent to which we invest in new technology and research and development projects, and the status and timing of these developments, as well as general availability of capital from debt and/or equity markets. Additional financing may not be available when needed on terms favorable to us, or at all. Further, the terms of the separation agreement, our debt or other agreements may limit our ability to incur additional indebtedness or issue

33


Table of Contents

additional equity. If we are unable to obtain adequate funds on acceptable terms, we may be unable to develop or enhance our products, take advantage of future opportunities or respond to competitive pressures, which could harm our business.

The markets for many of our products have seasonally affected sales patterns.

              The demand for TiO 2 and certain of our other products during a given year is subject to seasonal fluctuations. Because TiO 2 is widely used in paint and other coatings, demand is higher in the painting seasons of spring and summer in the Northern Hemisphere. We may be adversely affected by anticipated or unanticipated changes in regional weather conditions. For example, poor weather conditions in a region can lead to an abbreviated painting season, which can depress consumer sales of paint products that use TiO 2 , which could have a negative effect on our cash position.

Our operations involve risks that may increase our operating costs, which could reduce our profitability.

              Although we take precautions to enhance the safety of our operations and minimize the risk of disruptions, our operations are subject to hazards inherent in the manufacturing and marketing of chemical and other products. These hazards include: chemical spills, pipeline leaks and ruptures, storage tank leaks, discharges or releases of toxic or hazardous substances or gases and other hazards incident to the manufacturing, processing, handling, transportation and storage of dangerous chemicals. We are also potentially subject to other hazards, including natural disasters and severe weather; explosions and fires; transportation problems, including interruptions, spills and leaks; mechanical failures; unscheduled downtimes; labor difficulties; remediation complications; and other risks. In addition, some equipment and operations at our facilities are owned or controlled by third parties who may not be fully integrated into our safety programs and over whom we are able to exercise limited control. Many potential hazards can cause bodily injury and loss of life, severe damage to or destruction of property and equipment and environmental damage, and may result in suspension of operations and the imposition of civil or criminal penalties and liabilities. Furthermore, we are subject to present and future claims with respect to workplace exposure, exposure of contractors on our premises as well as other persons located nearby, workers' compensation and other matters.

              We maintain property, business interruption, products liability and casualty insurance policies which we believe are in accordance with customary industry practices, as well as insurance policies covering other types of risks, including pollution legal liability insurance, but we are not fully insured against all potential hazards and risks incident to our business. Each of these insurance policies is subject to customary exclusions, deductibles and coverage limits, in accordance with industry standards and practices. As a result of market conditions, premiums and deductibles for certain insurance policies can increase substantially and, in some instances, certain insurance may become unavailable or available only for reduced amounts of coverage. If we were to incur a significant liability for which we were not fully insured, it could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

Our operations, financial condition and liquidity could be adversely affected by legal claims against us, including antitrust claims.

              We face risks arising from various legal actions, including matters relating to antitrust, product liability, intellectual property and environmental claims. It is possible that judgments could be rendered against us in these cases or others for which we could be uninsured or not covered by indemnity, or which may be beyond the amounts that we currently have reserved or anticipate incurring for such matters. Over the past few years, antitrust claims have been made against TiO 2 companies, including Huntsman. In this type of litigation, the plaintiffs generally seek treble damages, which may be significant. An adverse outcome in any claim could be material and significantly impact our operations, financial condition and liquidity. In addition, we are subject to various claims and litigation in the ordinary course of business. For more information, see "Business—Legal Proceedings."

34


Table of Contents

We are subject to risks relating to our information technology systems, and any failure to adequately protect our critical information technology systems could materially affect our operations.

              We rely on information technology systems across our operations, including for management, supply chain and financial information and various other processes and transactions. Our ability to effectively manage our business depends on the security, reliability and capacity of these systems. Information technology system failures, network disruptions or breaches of security could disrupt our operations, cause delays or cancellations of customer orders or impede the manufacture or shipment of products, processing of transactions or reporting of financial results. An attack or other problem with our systems could also result in the disclosure of proprietary information about our business or confidential information concerning our customers or employees, which could result in significant damage to our business and our reputation.

              We have put in place security measures designed to protect against the misappropriation or corruption of our systems, intentional or unintentional disclosure of confidential information, or disruption of our operations. Current employees have, and former employees may have, access to a significant amount of information regarding our operations which could be disclosed to our competitors or otherwise used to harm us. Moreover, our operations in certain locations, such as China, may be particularly vulnerable to security attacks or other problems. Any breach of our security measures could result in unauthorized access to and misappropriation of our information, corruption of data or disruption of operations or transactions, any of which could have a material adverse effect on our business.

              In addition, we could be required to expend significant additional amounts to respond to information technology issues or to protect against threatened or actual security breaches. We may not be able to implement measures that will protect against the significant risks to our information technology systems.

Economic conditions and regulatory changes following the U.K.'s likely exit from the European Union could adversely impact our operations, operating results and financial condition.

              Following a referendum in June 2016, in which voters in the U.K. approved an exit from the EU, the U.K. government initiated the formal process to leave the EU (often referred to as Brexit) on March 29, 2017. The process is expected to be completed within the next two years. The referendum triggered short-term financial volatility, including a decline in the value of the British pound sterling in comparison to both the U.S. dollar and euro. It is expected that Brexit will continue to impact economic conditions in the EU. The future effects of Brexit will depend on any agreements the U.K. makes to retain access to the EU or other markets either during a transitional period or more permanently. Given the lack of comparable precedent, it is unclear what financial, trade and legal implications the withdrawal of the U.K. from the EU would have and how such withdrawal would affect our Company.

              We derive a significant portion of our revenues from sales outside the U.S., including 40% from continental Europe and 5% from the U.K. in 2016. The consequences of Brexit, together with the significant uncertainty regarding the terms on which the U.K. will leave the EU, could introduce significant uncertainties into global financial markets and adversely impact the markets in which we and our customers operate. Brexit could also create uncertainty with respect to the legal and regulatory requirements to which we and our customers in the U.K. are subject and lead to divergent national laws and regulations as the U.K. government determines which EU laws to replace or replicate.

              While we are not experiencing any immediate adverse impact on our financial condition as a direct result of Brexit, adverse consequences such as deterioration in economic conditions, volatility in currency exchange rates or adverse changes in regulation could have a negative impact on our future

35


Table of Contents

operations, operating results and financial condition. All of these potential consequences could be further magnified if additional countries were to seek to exit the EU.

We have identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting, which resulted in the restatement of our financial statements. If remediation of this material weakness is not effective, or if we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting in the future, we may not be able to accurately or timely report our financial condition or operating results, which may adversely affect investor confidence in our company and, as a result, the value of our ordinary shares.

              We identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting as of March 31, 2017. As defined in the standards established by the U.S. Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, a "material weakness" is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented, or detected on a timely basis.

              The material weakness identified related to the presentation of our cash flows related to the cash pooling program in which we participate with certain subsidiaries of Huntsman International. Cash flows related to cash pooling programs should be presented as cash flows from either investing or financing activities on the statements of cash flows. As further described in footnote 13 to our condensed combined financial statements and footnote 25 to our combined financial statements, our cash flows related to cash pooling programs were improperly disclosed as operating activities instead of investing and financing activities in our statements of cash flows for the three years ended December 31, 2016 and for the three month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the adjustment from operating activities to investing and financing activities in the combined statements of cash flows was $46 million, $266 million, and $163 million, respectively. For the three month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the adjustment from operating activities to investing and financing activities in the condensed combined statements of cash flows was $146 million and $89 million, respectively. We are taking steps to remediate the material weakness and are in the process of supplementing our existing internal controls related to carve out cash flow reporting. In response to the material weakness, we have hired additional accounting personnel, provided training to our existing accounting personnel and initiated various other remedial measures. The incremental internal controls created to respond to this material weakness will be integrated into our internal controls testing plan and they will be tested during 2017. Although we plan to complete the above remediation process and associated evaluation and testing as quickly as possible, we may not be able to do so and our initiatives may prove not to be successful. If our remedial measures are insufficient to address the material weakness, or if additional material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting are discovered during the evaluation and testing process, we will be unable to assert that our internal control over financial reporting is effective and our independent registered public accounting firm will be unable to express an opinion on the effectiveness of our internal control. If we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent fraud. As a result, shareholders could lose confidence in our financial and other public reporting, which would harm our business and the trading price of our shares.

Failure to maintain effective internal controls could adversely affect our ability to meet our reporting requirements.

              The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (the "Sarbanes-Oxley Act") requires, among other things, that we maintain effective internal control over financial reporting and disclosure controls and procedures. One key aspect of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act is that we must perform system and process evaluation and testing of our internal control over financial reporting to allow management and our independent

36


Table of Contents

registered public accounting firm to report on the effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting, as required by Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, with auditor attestation of the effectiveness of our internal controls, beginning with our annual report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018. If we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 in a timely manner, or if we or our independent registered public accounting firm identify deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material weaknesses, the market price of our ordinary shares could decline and we could be subject to regulatory penalties or investigations by the NYSE, the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management resources.

              Effective internal controls are necessary for us to provide reasonable assurance with respect to our financial reports and to effectively prevent fraud. Internal controls over financial reporting may not prevent or detect misstatements because of inherent limitations, including the possibility of human error, the circumvention or overriding of controls, or fraud. Therefore, even effective internal controls can provide only reasonable assurance with respect to the preparation and fair presentation of financial statements. If we cannot provide reasonable assurance with respect to our financial reports and effectively prevent fraud, our operating results could be misreported. In addition, projections of any evaluation of effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the control may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate. If we fail to maintain the effectiveness of our internal controls, including any failure to implement required new or improved controls, or if we experience difficulties in their implementation, our business and operating results could be harmed, we could fail to meet our reporting obligations, and there could be a material adverse effect on our share price.

              The process of implementing internal controls in connection with our operation as a stand-alone company requires significant attention from management and we cannot be certain that these measures will ensure that we implement and maintain adequate controls over our financial processes and reporting in the future. Difficulties encountered in their implementation could harm our results of operations or cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. If we fail to obtain the quality of administrative services necessary to operate effectively or incur greater costs in obtaining these services, our profitability, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

Our results of operations could be adversely affected by our indemnification of Huntsman and other commitments and contingencies.

              In the ordinary course of business, we may make certain commitments, including representations, warranties and indemnities relating to current and past operations, including those related to divested businesses, and issue guarantees of third-party obligations. Additionally, we are required to indemnify Huntsman for uncapped amounts with regard to liabilities allocated to, or assumed by us under each of the separation agreement, the employee matters agreement and the tax matters agreement that we expect to execute prior to the completion of this offering. These indemnification obligations to date have included defense costs associated with certain litigation matters as well as certain damages awards, settlements, and penalties. As we are required to make payments, such payments could be significant and could exceed the amounts we have accrued with respect thereto, adversely affecting our results of operations. In addition, in the event that Huntsman seeks indemnification for adverse trial rulings or outcomes, these indemnification claims could materially adversely affect our financial condition. Disputes between Huntsman and us may also arise with respect to indemnification matters including disputes based on matters of law or contract interpretation. If and to the extent these disputes arise, they could materially adversely affect us.

37


Table of Contents

Financial difficulties and related problems experienced by our customers, vendors, suppliers and other business partners could have a material adverse effect on our business.

              During periods of economic disruption, more of our customers than normal may experience financial difficulties, including bankruptcies, restructurings and liquidations, which could affect our business by reducing sales, increasing our risk in extending trade credit to customers and reducing our profitability. A significant adverse change in a customer relationship or in a customer's financial position could cause us to limit or discontinue business with that customer, require us to assume more credit risk relating to that customer's receivables or limit our ability to collect accounts receivable from that customer.

Our customers, prospective customers, suppliers or other companies with whom we conduct business may need assurances that our financial stability is sufficient to satisfy their requirements for doing or continuing to do business with them.

              Some of our customers, prospective customers, suppliers or other companies with whom we conduct business may need assurances that our financial stability is sufficient to satisfy their requirements for doing or continuing to do business with them, and may require us to provide additional credit support, such as letters of credit or other financial guarantees. Any failure of parties to be satisfied with our financial stability could have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, results of operations and cash flows.

Our flexibility in managing our labor force may be adversely affected by existing or new labor and employment laws and policies in the jurisdictions in which we operate, many of which are more onerous than those of the United States; and some of our labor force has substantial workers' council or trade union participation, which creates a risk of disruption from labor disputes.

              The global nature of our business presents difficulties in hiring and maintaining a workforce in certain countries. The majority of our employees are located outside the U.S. In many of these countries, including the U.K., Italy, Germany, France, Spain, Finland and Malaysia, labor and employment laws may be more onerous than in the U.S. and, in many cases, grant significant job protection to employees, including rights on termination of employment.

              We are required to consult with, and seek the consent or advice of, various employee groups or works councils that represent our employees for any changes to our activities or employee benefits. This requirement could have a significant impact on our flexibility in managing costs and responding to market changes.

Our future success depends on our ability to retain key executives and to identify, attract, retain and motivate qualified senior management and personnel.

              We are highly dependent on the experience and strong relationships in the chemicals industry, and financial and business development expertise of Simon Turner, our President and Chief Executive Officer and Kurt Ogden, our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Because of our reliance on our senior management team, our future success depends, in part, on our ability to identify, attract, develop and retain key personnel and talent to succeed our senior management and other key positions throughout the organization. The loss of the services of our executive officers or other key employees could impede the achievement of our strategic objectives and seriously harm our ability to successfully implement our business strategy. Furthermore, replacing executive officers and key employees may be difficult and may take an extended period of time because of the limited number of individuals in our industry with the breadth of skills and experience required to successfully manage, develop and grow in a highly technical chemicals industry. This risk is further enhanced by the planned

38


Table of Contents

separation from Huntsman. If we fail to identify and develop or recruit successors, we are at risk of being harmed by the departures of these key employees.

Conflicts, military actions, terrorist attacks and general instability, particularly in certain energy-producing nations, along with increased security regulations related to our industry, could adversely affect our business.

              Conflicts, military actions and terrorist attacks have precipitated economic instability and turmoil in financial markets. Instability and turmoil, particularly in energy-producing nations, may result in raw material cost increases. The uncertainty and economic disruption resulting from hostilities, military action or acts of terrorism may impact any or all of our facilities and operations or those of our suppliers or customers. Accordingly, any conflict, military action or terrorist attack that impacts us or any of our suppliers or customers, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

              In addition, a number of governments have instituted regulations attempting to increase the security of chemical plants and the transportation of hazardous chemicals, which could result in higher operating costs and could have a material adverse effect on our financial condition and liquidity.

Risks Related to Intellectual Property

Our business is dependent on our intellectual property. If we are unable to enforce our intellectual property rights and prevent use of our intellectual property by third parties, our ability to compete may be adversely affected.

              Protection of our proprietary processes, apparatuses and other technology is important to our business. We rely on patent protection, as well as a combination of copyright and trade secret laws to protect and prevent others from duplicating our proprietary processes, apparatuses and technology. While a presumption of validity exists with respect to patents issued to us in the U.S., there can be no assurance that any of our patents will not be challenged, invalidated, circumvented or rendered unenforceable. Such means may afford only limited protection of our intellectual property and may not; (i) prevent our competitors from duplicating our processes or technology; (ii) prevent our competitors from gaining access to our proprietary information and technology; or (iii) permit us to gain or maintain a competitive advantage. In addition, our competitors or other third parties may obtain patents that restrict or preclude our ability to lawfully produce or sell our products in a competitive manner, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

              We generally seek to apply for patents or for similar statutory protections as and if we deem appropriate, based on then-current facts and circumstances, and we will continue to do so in the future. No assurances can be given that any patent application that we have filed or will file will result in issuance of a patent, or that any existing or future patents issued to us will afford adequate or meaningful protection against competitors or against similar technology. If our patent claims are rendered invalid or unenforceable, or narrowed in scope, the patent coverage afforded our products could be impaired. Such impairment could significantly impede our ability to market our products, negatively affect our competitive position and harm our business and operating results. Our patents and patent applications may cover particular aspects of our products. Competitors and other third parties may be able to circumvent or design around our patents. Competitors may develop and obtain patent protection for more effective technologies, designs or methods. In addition, no assurances can be given that third parties will not create new products or methods that achieve similar results without infringing upon patents we own. If these developments were to occur, it could have an adverse effect on our sales or market position.

              We rely upon trade secrets and other confidential and proprietary know-how and continuing technological innovation to develop and maintain our competitive position. While it is our policy to

39


Table of Contents

enter into agreements imposing nondisclosure and confidentiality obligations upon our employees and third parties to protect our intellectual property, these confidentiality obligations may be breached, may not provide meaningful protection for our trade secrets or proprietary know-how, or adequate remedies may not be available in the event of an unauthorized access, use or disclosure of our trade secrets and know-how. Furthermore, despite the existence of such nondisclosure and confidentiality agreements, or other contractual restrictions, we may not be able to prevent the unauthorized disclosure or use of our confidential proprietary information or trade secrets by consultants, vendors, former employees or current employees. And the laws of foreign countries may not protect our intellectual property rights effectively or to the same extent as the laws of the United States. In addition, others could obtain knowledge of our trade secrets through independent development or other access by legal means. The occurrence of such events could limit or preclude our ability to produce or sell our products in a competitive manner, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, competitive position, financial condition or liquidity.

              We may not be able to effectively protect our intellectual property rights from misappropriation or infringement in countries where effective patent, trademark, trade secret and other intellectual property laws and judicial systems may be unavailable, or may not protect our proprietary rights to the same extent as U.S. law. Filing, prosecuting and defending our intellectual property in all countries throughout the world may be prohibitively expensive. Moreover, the laws of some countries outside of the U.S. do not afford intellectual property protection to the same extent as the laws of the U.S.

              The lack of adequate legal protections of intellectual property or failure of legal remedies for related actions could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations, financial condition and liquidity.

If our trademarks and trade names are not adequately protected, then we may not be able to build name recognition in our markets of interest and our business may be adversely affected.

              We rely on our trademarks, service marks, domain names and logos to market our brands and to build and maintain brand loyalty and recognition. We rely on trademark protections to protect our business and our products and services. We generally seek to register and continue to register and renew, or secure by contract where appropriate, trademarks, trade names and service marks as they are developed and used, and reserve, register and renew domain names as appropriate. Our registered or unregistered trademarks, trade names or service marks may be challenged, infringed, circumvented or declared generic or determined to be infringing on other marks. Effective trademark protection may not be available or may not be sought in every country in which our products are made available and contractual disputes may affect the use of marks governed by private contract. We may not be able to protect our rights to these trademarks, domain names and trade names, which we need to build brand name recognition by potential customers or partners in our markets of interest. And while we seek to protect the trademarks we use in the U.S. and in other countries, we may be unsuccessful in obtaining registrations and/or otherwise protecting these trademarks. If that were to happen, we may be prevented from using our names, brands and trademarks unless we enter into appropriate royalty, license or coexistence agreements.

We are dependent on proprietary technology licensed from others. If we lose our licenses, we may not be able to continue developing and manufacturing as well as marketing and selling our products.

              We have obtained licenses that give us rights to third party intellectual property that is necessary or useful to our business. These license agreements covering our products impose various royalty and other obligations on us. One or more of our licensors may allege that we have breached our license agreement with them, and accordingly seek to terminate our license. If we materially breach the obligations in our license agreements, the licensor typically has the right to terminate the license and we may not be able to market products that were covered by the license, which could adversely

40


Table of Contents

affect our competitive business position and harm our business prospects. In addition, any claims brought against us by our licensors could be costly and time-consuming and would divert the attention of our management and key personnel from our business operations.

Third parties may claim that we infringe on their proprietary intellectual property rights, and resulting litigation may be costly, result in the diversion of management's time and efforts, require us to pay damages or prevent us from marketing our existing or future products.

              Our commercial success will depend in part on not infringing, misappropriating or violating the intellectual property rights of others. From time to time, we may be subject to legal proceedings and claims, including claims of alleged infringement of trademarks, copyrights, patents and other intellectual property rights held by third parties. In the future, third parties may sue us for alleged infringement of their proprietary or intellectual property rights. We may not be aware of whether our products do or will infringe existing or future patents or the intellectual property rights of others. Any litigation in this regard, regardless of outcome or merit, could result in substantial costs and diversion of management and technical resources as well as harm to our brand, any of which could adversely affect our business, financial condition and results of operations. If the party claiming infringement were to prevail, we could be forced to discontinue the use of the related trademark, technology or design and/or pay significant damages unless we enter into royalty or licensing arrangements with the prevailing party or are able to redesign our products to avoid infringement. Any such license may not be available on reasonable terms, if at all, and there can be no assurance that we would be able to redesign our products in a way that would not infringe the intellectual property rights of others. In addition, any payments we are required to make and any injunction we are required to comply with as a result of such infringement could harm our reputation and financial results.

Risks Related to Our Relationship with Huntsman

We are controlled by Huntsman, and its interests may conflict with yours.

              Upon the completion of this offering, we will be a stand-alone public company and Huntsman, through HHN, will own          % of our outstanding ordinary shares, or        % if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full. Accordingly, Huntsman will continue to control our business objectives and policies, including the composition of our board of directors and any action requiring the approval of our shareholders, such as the adoption of amendments to our certificate of incorporation, and the approval of mergers or a sale of substantially all of our assets. Huntsman will also control the timing and structure of any further separation of us from Huntsman in the future. This concentration of ownership may also make some transactions, including mergers or other changes in control, more difficult or impossible without the support of Huntsman and could discourage others from making tender offers, which could prevent shareholders from receiving a premium for their shares. Huntsman's interests may conflict with your interests as a shareholder. For additional information about our relationships with Huntsman, see "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions."

We may not realize the anticipated benefits from our separation from Huntsman.

              We may not realize the benefits that we anticipate from our separation from Huntsman. These benefits include the following:

    creating two separate businesses that will be industry leaders in their respective areas of operations;

    allowing investors to evaluate the separate investment identities of each company, including the distinct merits, performance and future prospects of their respective businesses;

41


Table of Contents

    creating two separate capital structures that will afford each company direct access to the debt and equity capital markets to fund their respective growth strategies and to establish an appropriate capital structure for their business needs;

    enhancing the ability of each company to focus on their respective businesses and unique opportunities for long-term growth and profitability and to allocate capital and corporate resources in a manner that focuses on achieving each company's own strategic priorities;

    providing each company with increased flexibility to pursue strategic alternatives, including acquisitions and mergers, without having to consider the potential impact on the businesses of the other company, including funding such acquisitions using their respective common equity; and

    improving each company's ability to attract and retain individuals with the appropriate skill sets as well as to better align compensation and incentives, including equity compensation, with the performance of these different businesses.

              We may not achieve the anticipated benefits from our separation for a variety of reasons. For example, the process of separating our business from Huntsman and operating as a separate public company may distract our management from focusing on our business and strategic priorities. In addition, we may not generate sufficient cash flow to fund our growth plans and to generate acceptable returns. Moreover, even with equity compensation tied to our business, we may not be able to attract and retain employees as desired. We also may not fully realize the anticipated benefits from our separation if any of the other matters identified as risks in this "Risk Factors" section were to occur.

Our historical and pro forma financial information may not be representative of the results we would have achieved as a stand-alone public company and may not be a reliable indicator of our future results.

              The historical and pro forma financial information included in this prospectus has been derived from Huntsman's accounting records and may not reflect what our financial position, results of operations or cash flows would have been had we been a separate, stand-alone entity during the periods presented or those that we will achieve in the future. Huntsman did not account for us, and we were not operated, as a separate, stand-alone company for the historical periods presented. The costs to operate our business as a separate public entity are expected to differ from the historical cost allocations, including corporate and administrative charges from Huntsman reflected in the accompanying historical and pro forma combined financial statements presented elsewhere in this prospectus.

              We expect that our recurring selling, general and administrative expense (including any incremental stand-alone public company expense) will be lower than costs allocated to legal entities which will continue to be a part of Venator following this offering as reflected in our statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016. The anticipated cost reductions principally relate to lower expected overhead costs for us relative to the allocation from Huntsman included in our historical statements of operations with respect to (i) finance, accounting, compliance, investor relations, treasury, internal audit and legal personnel, (ii) information technology costs (iii) professional fees associated with legal and other services, and (iv) executive compensation. Actual expenses could vary from this estimate and such variations could be material.

              Our capital expenditure requirements, including acquisitions, historically have been satisfied as part of Huntsman's companywide cash management practices. Following our separation from Huntsman, we will no longer have access to Huntsman's working capital, and we may need to obtain additional financing from banks, through public offerings or private placements of debt or equity securities or other arrangements if our cash flow from operations is not sufficient to fund our capital expenditure requirements.

42


Table of Contents

              For additional information about our past financial performance and the basis of presentation of our financial statements, see "Selected Historical Combined Financial Data," "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our financial statements and related notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.

If we are unable to generate sufficient cash flow from our operations, our business, financial condition and results of operations may be materially and adversely affected.

              After this offering, we will not be able to rely on Huntsman's earnings, assets or cash flow, and we will be responsible for obtaining and maintaining sufficient working capital and servicing our own debt. We may not generate sufficient funds to service our debt and meet our business needs, such as funding working capital or the expansion of our operations. Our ability to generate cash is subject in part to general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors that are beyond our control. If we are unable to generate sufficient cash or repay or refinance our debt as it becomes due, we may be forced to take disadvantageous actions, including reducing spending on marketing and new product innovation, reducing financing in the future for working capital, capital expenditures and general corporate purposes, selling assets or dedicating an unsustainable level of our cash flow from operations to the payment of principal and interest on our indebtedness. In addition, our ability to withstand competitive pressures and to react to changes in our industry could be impaired.

In connection with our separation from Huntsman, we will indemnify Huntsman for certain liabilities, including those related to the operation of our business while it was still owned by Huntsman, and while Huntsman will indemnify us for certain liabilities, such indemnities may not be adequate.

              Pursuant to the separation agreement and other agreements with Huntsman, Huntsman will agree to indemnify us for certain liabilities, including those related to the operation of our business while it was still owned by Huntsman, and we will agree to indemnify Huntsman for certain liabilities, in each case for uncapped amounts, as discussed further in "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company." Indemnity payments that we may be required to provide Huntsman may be significant and could negatively impact our business. Third parties could also seek to hold us responsible for liabilities that Huntsman has agreed to retain. Further, there can be no assurance that the indemnity from Huntsman will be sufficient to protect us against the full amount of such liabilities, or that Huntsman will be able to fully satisfy its indemnification obligations. Moreover, even if we ultimately succeed in recovering from Huntsman any amounts for which we are held liable, we may be temporarily required to bear these losses ourselves.

We will incur additional expenses as a result of operating as a public company, and our management will be required to devote substantial time to complying with public company regulations.

              Historically, our operations have been fully integrated within Huntsman, and we have relied on Huntsman to provide certain corporate functions. Relative to our pro forma Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additive segments for the year ended December 31, 2016, we expect these segments to be burdened annually by an approximate incremental $33 million to $38 million (before depreciation and amortization) of selling, general and administrative expense (relating to stand-alone public company expense) in the aggregate. As part of Huntsman, we have been able to enjoy certain benefits from Huntsman's scale and purchasing power. As a separate, publicly traded company, we will not have similar negotiating leverage.

              The Sarbanes-Oxley Act, as well as rules subsequently implemented by the SEC and the NYSE, have imposed increased regulation and disclosure and required enhanced corporate governance practices of public companies. We are committed to maintaining high standards of corporate

43


Table of Contents

governance and public disclosure, and our efforts to comply with evolving laws, regulations and standards in this regard are likely to result in increased selling and administrative expenses and a diversion of management's time and attention from revenue-generating activities to compliance activities.

              In addition, following this offering, we will become obligated to file with the SEC annual and quarterly information and other reports. We will also be required to ensure that we have the ability to prepare financial statements that are fully compliant with all SEC reporting requirements on a timely basis.

Following our separation from Huntsman, Huntsman will provide us with certain transitional services that may not be sufficient to meet our needs. We may have difficulty finding supplemental or, ultimately, replacement services or be required to pay increased costs to supplement or, ultimately, replace these services.

              Certain administrative services required by us for the operation of our business are currently provided by Huntsman and its subsidiaries, including, administrative, payroll, human resources, data processing, EHS, financial audit support, financial transaction support, other support services, information technology systems and various other corporate services. Prior to the completion of the separation, we will enter into agreements with Huntsman related to the separation of our business operations from Huntsman, including a transition services agreement. We believe it is helpful for Huntsman to provide transitional assistance for us under the transition services agreement to facilitate the efficient operation of our business as we transition to becoming a stand-alone public company. These services may not be provided at the same level as when we were a business segment within Huntsman, and we may not be able to obtain the same benefits that we received prior to this offering. While these services are being provided to us by Huntsman, our operational flexibility to modify or implement changes with respect to such services or the amounts we pay for them will be limited. After the expiration or termination of the transition services agreement, we may not be able to replace these services or enter into appropriate third-party agreements on terms and conditions, including cost, comparable to those that we will receive from Huntsman under the transition services agreement. Any failure or significant downtime in our own administrative systems or in Huntsman's administrative systems during the transitional period could result in unexpected costs, impact our results and/or prevent us from paying our suppliers or employees and performing other administrative services on a timely basis. Although we intend to replace portions of the services currently provided by Huntsman, we may encounter difficulties replacing certain services or be unable to negotiate pricing or other terms as favorable as those we currently have in effect. For those services currently provided to us by Huntsman but that will not be provided under the transition services agreement after this offering, there can be no assurance that we will be as effective performing these services on a stand-alone basis. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company—Transition Services Agreement."

              We may experience unplanned disruptions to our operations in these facilities as a result of actions beyond our control. In some cases, we may share control with Huntsman and differences in views between us and Huntsman may result in delays and may cause us to fail to achieve our planned operating performance. As a result, our results of operations could be adversely affected.

The agreements between us and Huntsman will not be made on an arm's length basis.

              The agreements we will enter into with Huntsman in connection with this offering, including, but not limited to, the separation agreement, tax matters agreement, employee matters agreement, registration rights agreement and transition services agreement, will have been negotiated in the context of this offering while we were still a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman. Accordingly, during the period in which the terms of those agreements will have been negotiated, we will not have had an independent board of directors or a management team independent of Huntsman. As a result, the

44


Table of Contents

terms of those agreements may not reflect terms that would have resulted from arm's-length negotiations between unaffiliated third parties. The terms relate to, among other things, the allocation of assets, liabilities, rights and other obligations between Huntsman and us. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company" for a description of these obligations and the allocation of liabilities between Huntsman and us.

We could have significant tax liabilities for periods during which Huntsman operated our business.

              For any tax periods (or portions thereof) prior to the separation and this offering, we or one or more of our subsidiaries will be included in consolidated, combined, unitary or similar tax reporting groups with Huntsman (including Huntsman's consolidated group for U.S. federal income tax purposes). Applicable laws (including U.S. federal income tax laws) often provide that each member of such a tax reporting group is liable for the group's entire tax obligation. Thus, to the extent Huntsman or other members of a tax reporting group of which we or one of our subsidiaries was a member fails to make any tax payments required by law, we could be liable for the shortfall. Huntsman will indemnify us for any taxes attributable to Huntsman and the internal reorganization and separation transactions that we or one of our subsidiaries are required to pay as a result of our (or one of our subsidiaries') membership in such a tax reporting group with Huntsman. We will also be responsible for any increase in Huntsman's tax liability for any period in which we or any of our subsidiaries are combined or consolidated with Huntsman to the extent attributable to our business (including any increase resulting from audit adjustments).

              In addition, we will also be responsible for any taxes due with respect to tax returns that include only us and/or our subsidiaries for tax periods (or portions thereof) prior to the separation and this offering.

              Further, by virtue of Huntsman's controlling ownership and the tax matters agreement, Huntsman will effectively control all of our tax decisions in connection with any tax reporting group tax returns in which we (or any of our subsidiaries) are included. The tax matters agreement provides that Huntsman will have sole authority to respond to and conduct all tax proceedings (including tax audits) and to prepare and file all such reporting group tax returns in which we or one of our subsidiaries are included on our behalf (including the making of any tax elections). This arrangement may result in conflicts of interest between Huntsman and us. See "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company—Tax Matters Agreement."

              In addition, for U.S. federal income tax purposes Huntsman will recognize gain as a result of the internal restructuring if, and to the extent, the fair market value of the assets associated with our U.S. business exceeds the basis of such assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes at the time of the internal restructuring. To the extent any such gain is recognized, the basis of the assets associated with our U.S. business will be increased. Pursuant to the tax matters agreement, we will be required to pay to Huntsman in the future any actual U.S. federal income savings we recognize in tax years following this offering through December 31, 2028 as a result of any such basis increase. We will benefit from any increased tax basis in our assets over periods ranging from 5 to 15 years. The actual amount of any gain recognized and any corresponding basis increase will not be known until the tax return for the year that includes the internal restructuring is complete. Moreover, any subsequent adjustment asserted by U.S. taxing authorities could increase the amount of gain recognized and any corresponding basis increase, and could result in a higher liability for us under the tax matters agreement.

              See note "18. Income Taxes" to our combined financial statements for the amount of our known contingent tax liabilities. We currently have no reason to believe that we have any unrecorded outstanding tax liabilities from prior years; however, due to the inherent complexity of tax law, the many countries in which we operate, and the unpredictable nature of tax authorities, we believe there is inherent uncertainty.

45


Table of Contents

The amount of tax for which we are liable for taxable periods preceding the separation may be impacted by elections Huntsman makes on our behalf.

              Under the tax matters agreement, Huntsman will have the right to make all elections for taxable periods preceding the separation and this offering. As a result, the amount of tax for which we are liable for taxable periods preceding the separation and this offering may be impacted by elections Huntsman makes on our behalf.

We may be classified as a passive foreign investment company for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which could result in adverse U.S. federal income tax consequences to U.S. Holders of our ordinary shares.

              A foreign corporation will be treated as a "passive foreign investment company," or "PFIC," for U.S. federal income tax purposes if either (1) at least 75% of its gross income for any taxable year consists of certain types of "passive income" or (2) at least 50% of the average value of the corporation's assets for any taxable year produce or are held for the production of those types of "passive income." For purposes of these tests, "passive income" includes dividends, interest and gains from the sale or exchange of investment property and rents and royalties other than certain rents and royalties which are received from unrelated parties in connection with the active conduct of a trade or business, but does not include income derived from the performance of services. U.S. shareholders of a PFIC are subject to a disadvantageous U.S. federal income tax regime with respect to the income derived by the PFIC, the distributions they receive from the PFIC, and the gain, if any, they derive from the sale or other disposition of their interests in the PFIC.

              Based on the composition of our assets, income and a review of our activities we do not believe that we currently are a PFIC, and we do not expect to become a PFIC in future taxable years. However, our status as a PFIC in any taxable year will depend on our assets, income and activities in each year, and because this is a factual determination made annually after the end of each taxable year, there can be no assurance that we will not be considered a PFIC for the current taxable year or any future taxable years, and it is possible that the US. Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") would not agree with our conclusion, or the U.S. tax laws could change significantly. For additional information, see "Material Tax Considerations—Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations."

The IRS may not agree that we are a foreign corporation for U.S. federal tax purposes.

              For U.S. federal tax purposes, a corporation is generally considered to be a tax resident of the jurisdiction of its organization or incorporation. Because we are incorporated under the laws of the U.K., we would be classified as a foreign corporation under these rules. Section 7874 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code") provides an exception to this general rule under which a foreign incorporated entity may, in certain circumstances, be classified as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

              As part of the internal reorganization, we will directly and indirectly acquire assets, including stock of U.S. subsidiaries and assets previously held by U.S. corporations, from affiliates of Huntsman. Under Section 7874, we could be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes if Huntsman International is treated as receiving at least 80% (by either vote or value) of our shares by reason of holding shares in any U.S. subsidiary acquired by us or with respect to our acquisition of substantially all of the assets of any U.S. subsidiary, in each case, in the internal reorganization.

              It is currently not expected that Section 7874 will cause us or any of our affiliates to be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. tax purposes. However, the law and Treasury Regulations promulgated under Section 7874 are relatively new, complex and somewhat unclear, and there is limited guidance regarding the application of Section 7874. Moreover, the rules for applying Section 7874 are dependent upon the subjective valuation of certain of our U.S. assets and non-U.S. assets.

46


Table of Contents

              Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the IRS will not challenge our status or the status of any of our foreign affiliates as a foreign corporation under Section 7874 or that such challenge would not be sustained by a court. If the IRS were to successfully challenge such status under Section 7874, we and our affiliates could be subject to substantial additional U.S. federal income tax liability. In addition, we and certain of our foreign affiliates are expected, regardless of any application of Section 7874, to be treated as tax residents of countries other than the United States. Consequently, if we or any such affiliate is treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Section 7874, we or such affiliate could be liable for both U.S. and non-U.S. taxes. For additional information, see "Material Tax Considerations—Tax Residence of the Company for U.S. Federal Income Tax Purposes."

Following this offering, certain members of our board of directors and management may have actual or potential conflicts of interest because of their ownership of shares of common stock of Huntsman and the expected overlap of two members of our Board with the board of directors of Huntsman.

              Following this offering, certain members of our board of directors and management will initially own common stock of Huntsman or options to purchase common stock of Huntsman because of their current or prior relationships with Huntsman, which could create, or appear to create, potential conflicts of interest when our directors and executive officers are faced with decisions that could have different implications for Huntsman and us.

              In addition, we expect the board of directors of each of us and Huntsman will have two members in common after the separation, including Peter R. Huntsman and Sir Robert J. Margetts, which could create actual or potential conflicts of interest.

              So long as Huntsman beneficially owns ordinary shares representing at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast by the holders of our outstanding ordinary shares, Huntsman can effectively control and direct our board of directors. Accordingly, we may not be able to resolve potential conflicts, and even if we do, the resolution may be less favorable than if we were dealing with an unaffiliated party.

              As a result of these actual or apparent conflicts of interest, we may be precluded from pursuing certain growth initiatives.

We may not be able to transfer certain entities that are part of the separation from Huntsman prior to this offering.

              We may not be able to transfer certain entities that are part of the separation from Huntsman prior to this offering because the entities may be subject to foreign government legal approvals that we may not receive prior to the completion of this offering. Such approvals may include, but not be limited to, approvals to demerge, to form new legal entities and to transfer assets. Following the completion of this offering, if receipt of foreign government legal approvals is further delayed or if we are unable to receive any requisite government approvals, we may not realize all of the anticipated benefits of our separation from Huntsman.

We will be a "controlled company" within the meaning of the rules of the NYSE and, as a result, will qualify for, and intend to rely on, exemptions from certain corporate governance requirements. You will not have the same protections afforded to shareholders of companies that are subject to such requirements.

              Upon completion of this offering, Huntsman will continue to control a majority of the voting power of our outstanding ordinary shares. As a result, we will be a "controlled company" within the meaning of the corporate governance standards of the NYSE. Under these standards, a listed company of which more than 50% of the voting power is held by an individual, group or another company is a

47


Table of Contents

"controlled company" and may elect not to comply with certain corporate governance requirements, including the requirement:

    that a majority of the board of directors consist of independent directors;

    that the nominating and corporate governance committee be composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the committee's purpose and responsibilities;

    that the compensation committee be composed entirely of independent directors with a written charter addressing the committee's purpose and responsibilities; and

    for an annual performance evaluation of the nominating and corporate governance and compensation committees.

              Following this offering, we intend to utilize some or all of these exemptions. Accordingly, while Huntsman controls a majority of the voting power of our outstanding ordinary shares, you may not have the same protections afforded to shareholders of companies that are subject to such corporate governance requirements. See "Management."

Risks Related to Our Ordinary Shares

No market currently exists for our ordinary shares. We cannot assure you that an active trading market will develop for our ordinary shares.

              Prior to the completion of this offering, there has been no public market for our ordinary shares. We cannot predict the extent to which investor interest in us will lead to the development of a trading market on the NYSE or otherwise, or how liquid that market might become. If an active market does not develop, you may have difficulty selling any of our ordinary shares that you purchase in this offering. The initial public offering price for the ordinary shares will be determined by negotiations between us and the representatives of the underwriters, and may not be indicative of prices that will prevail in the open market following this offering.

The market price and trading volume of our ordinary shares may be volatile and you may not be able to resell your shares at or above the initial public offering price of our ordinary shares following this offering.

              The market price of our ordinary shares may be influenced by many factors, some of which are beyond our control, including those described above in "—Risks Related to Our Business" and the following:

    the failure of securities analysts to cover our ordinary shares after our separation from Huntsman or changes in financial estimates by analysts;

    our inability to meet the financial estimates of analysts who follow our ordinary shares;

    our strategic actions;

    our announcements of significant contracts, acquisitions, joint ventures or capital commitments;

    general economic and stock market conditions;

    changes in conditions or trends in our industry, markets or customers;

    future sales of our ordinary shares or other securities; and

    investor perceptions of the investment opportunity associated with our ordinary shares relative to other investment alternatives.

48


Table of Contents

              As a result of these factors, holders of our ordinary shares may not be able to resell their shares at or above the initial public offering price following this offering or may not be able to resell them at all. These broad market and industry factors may materially reduce the market price of our ordinary shares, regardless of our operating performance. In addition, price volatility may be greater if trading volume of our ordinary shares is low.

A number of our shares are or will be eligible for future sale, which may cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline.

              Any sales of substantial amounts of our ordinary shares in the public market or the perception that such sales might occur, in connection with this offering or otherwise, may cause the market price of our ordinary shares to decline and impede our ability to raise capital through the issuance of equity securities. See "Shares Eligible for Future Sale" for a discussion of possible future sales of our ordinary shares. Subject to the lock-up arrangements discussed below and our agreements with Huntsman described in "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions," we are not restricted from issuing additional ordinary shares, including any securities that are convertible into or exchangeable for, or that represent the right to receive, ordinary shares or any substantially similar securities.

              Upon completion of this offering, we expect that there will be approximately                 million of our ordinary shares issued and outstanding, or approximately                  million shares if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full. These shares will be freely tradable without restriction or further registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"), unless the shares are owned by one of our "affiliates," as that term is defined in Rule 405 under the Securities Act. We cannot predict whether large amounts of our ordinary shares will be sold in the open market following this offering. We also cannot predict whether a sufficient number of buyers will be in the market at that time.

              In addition, following this offering, Huntsman will retain        % of our ordinary shares. In connection with this offering, we and Huntsman will enter into a Registration Rights Agreement, pursuant to which we will agree, upon the request of Huntsman, to use our best efforts to effect the registration under applicable securities laws of the disposition of our ordinary shares retained by Huntsman. Huntsman currently intends to monetize its retained ownership stake in Venator following this offering. Subject to prevailing market and other conditions (including the terms of Huntsman's lock-up agreement), this future monetization may be effected in multiple follow-on capital market or block transactions that permit an orderly distribution of Huntsman's retained shares. Huntsman has no contractual obligation to retain any of our ordinary shares, except as described under "Underwriting."

              In connection with this offering, we, our directors and executive officers, Huntsman and its directors and executive officers, and the selling shareholders and their directors and executive officers have each agreed to enter into a lock-up agreement and thereby be subject to a lock-up period, meaning that they and their permitted transferees will not be permitted to sell any of the shares of our ordinary shares for 180 days after the date of this prospectus, without the prior consent of three of the four representatives of the underwriters. Subject to applicable U.S. federal and state securities laws, after the expiration of this 180 day waiting period (or before, with consent of the underwriters to this offering), Huntsman may sell any and all of our ordinary shares that it beneficially owns or distribute, or exchange, any or all of such ordinary shares to, or with, its stockholders. Any disposition by Huntsman of our ordinary shares, or the perception that such dispositions may occur, could adversely affect prevailing market prices for our ordinary shares.

              In connection with this offering, we intend to file a registration statement on Form S-8 to register our ordinary shares that are or will be reserved for issuance under the Venator Materials 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (the "LTIP"). Significant sales of our ordinary shares pursuant to our LTIP could also adversely affect the prevailing market price for our ordinary shares.

49


Table of Contents

You will experience immediate and substantial dilution in net tangible book value per share.

              Dilution per share represents the difference between the initial public offering price and the adjusted net tangible book value per share immediately after this offering. Purchasers of our ordinary shares in this offering will experience immediate dilution of $            in net tangible book value per share. See "Dilution." In connection with the separation, we will assume Huntsman stock-based compensation awards of our employees, which may result in additional dilution to investors in this offering.

The rights of our shareholders may differ from the rights typically offered to shareholders of a U.S. corporation organized in Delaware and these differences may make our ordinary shares less attractive to investors.

              We are incorporated under the laws of England and Wales. The rights of holders of our ordinary shares are governed by English law, including the provisions of the Companies Act 2006, and by our articles of association. These rights differ in certain respects from the rights of shareholders in typical U.S. corporations organized in Delaware, including with respect to preemptive rights, distribution of dividends, limitation on derivative suits, and certain heightened shareholder approval requirements. The principal differences are set forth in "Description of Share Capital—Differences in Corporate Law."

U.S. investors may have difficulty enforcing civil liabilities against the Company, our directors or members of senior management and the experts named in this prospectus.

              We are incorporated under the laws of England and Wales. The U.S. and the U.K. do not currently have a treaty providing for the recognition and enforcement of judgments, other than arbitration awards, in civil and commercial matters. The enforceability of any judgment of a U.S. federal or state court in the U.K. will depend on the laws and any treaties in effect at the time, including conflicts of laws principles (such as those bearing on the question of whether a U.K. court would recognize the basis on which a U.S. court had purported to exercise jurisdiction over a defendant). In this context, there is doubt as to the enforceability in the U.K. of civil liabilities based solely on the federal securities laws of the U.S. In addition, awards for punitive damages in actions brought in the U.S. or elsewhere may be unenforceable in the U.K.. An award for monetary damages under the U.S. securities laws would likely be considered punitive if it did not seek to compensate the claimant for loss or damage suffered and was intended to punish the defendant.

Provisions in our articles of association are intended to have anti-takeover effects that could discourage an acquisition of us by others, and may prevent attempts by shareholders to replace or remove our current management.

              Certain provisions in our articles of association are intended to have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control or changes in our management. For example, our articles of association will include provisions that establish an advance notice procedure for shareholder resolutions to be brought before an annual meeting of our shareholders, including proposed nominations of persons for election to our board of directors. U.K. law also prohibits the passing of written shareholder resolutions by public companies. In addition, our articles of association will provide that, in general, from and after the first date on which Huntsman ceases to beneficially own at least 15% of our outstanding voting shares, we may not engage in a business combination with an interested shareholder for a period of three years after the time of the transaction in which the person became an interested shareholder. These provisions, alone or together, could delay or prevent hostile takeovers and changes in control or changes in our management, even if these events would be beneficial for our shareholders. Please read "Description of Share Capital—Articles of Association and English Law Consideration—Anti-Takeover Provisions."

50


Table of Contents

The U.K. City Code on Takeovers and Mergers, or the Takeover Code, may apply to the Company.

              The Takeover Code applies, among other things, to an offer for a public company whose registered office is in the U.K. (or the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man) and whose securities are not admitted to trading on a regulated market in the U.K. (or the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man) if the company is considered by the Panel on Takeovers and Mergers, or the Takeover Panel, to have its place of central management and control in the U.K. (or the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man). This is known as the "residency test." Under the Takeover Code, the Takeover Panel will determine whether we have our place of central management and control in the U.K. by looking at various factors, including the structure of our board of directors, the functions of the directors and where they are resident.

              If at the time of a takeover offer, the Takeover Panel determines that we have our place of central management and control in the U.K., we would be subject to a number of rules and restrictions, including but not limited to the following: (i) our ability to enter into deal protection arrangements with a bidder would be extremely limited; (ii) we might not, without the approval of our shareholders, be able to perform certain actions that could have the effect of frustrating an offer, such as issuing shares or carrying out acquisitions or disposals; and (iii) we would be obliged to provide equality of information to all bona fide competing bidders.

              Following the completion of this offering, Huntsman will be interested in over 50% of our voting share capital, and therefore, even if the Takeover Panel were to determine that we were subject to the Takeover Code, Huntsman would be able to increase its aggregate holding in us without triggering the requirement under Rule 9 of the Takeover Code to make a cash offer for the outstanding shares in the Company.

              Based upon our current and intended plans for our directors and management, for the purposes of the Takeover Code, we will be considered to have our place of central management and control outside the U.K., the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. Therefore, the Takeover Code should not apply to us. It is possible that in the future circumstances could change that may cause the Takeover Code to apply to us.

Pre-emption rights for U.S. and other non-U.K. holders of shares may be unavailable.

              In the case of certain increases in our issued share capital, under English law, existing holders of shares are entitled to pre-emption rights to subscribe for such shares, unless shareholders dis-apply such rights by a special resolution at a shareholders' meeting. These pre-emption rights will have been dis-applied for a period of five years by our shareholders prior to completion of the offering and we intend to propose equivalent resolutions in the future once the initial period of dis-application has expired. We cannot assure prospective U.S. investors that any exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act or applicable non-U.S. securities laws would be available to enable U.S. or other non-U.K. holders to exercise such pre-emption rights or, if available, that we will utilize any such exemption.

We do not intend to pay dividends on our ordinary shares, and we expect that our debt agreements will place certain restrictions on our ability to do so. Consequently, your only opportunity to achieve a return on your investment is if the price of our ordinary shares appreciates.

              We do not plan to declare dividends on our ordinary shares in the foreseeable future. Additionally, we expect that our debt agreements will place certain restrictions on our ability to pay cash dividends. Consequently, unless we revise our dividend policy, your only opportunity to achieve a return on your investment in us will be if you sell your ordinary shares at a price greater than you paid for it. There is no guarantee that the price of our ordinary shares that will prevail in the market will ever exceed the price that you pay in this offering.

51


Table of Contents

Transfers of our shares may be subject to stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax in the U.K., which would increase the cost of dealing in our shares.

              Stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax ("SDRT"), are imposed in the U.K. on certain transfers of chargeable securities (which include shares in companies incorporated in the U.K.) at a rate of 0.5% of the consideration paid for the transfer. Certain issues or transfers of shares to depositories or into clearance systems may be charged at a higher rate of 1.5%.

              You are strongly encouraged to hold your shares in book entry form through the facilities of The Depository Trust Company ("DTC"). Transfers of shares held in book entry form through DTC currently do not attract a charge to stamp duty or SDRT in the U.K. A transfer of title in the shares from within the DTC system out of DTC and any subsequent transfers that occur entirely outside the DTC system, will attract a charge to stamp duty at a rate of 0.5% of any consideration, which is payable by the transferee of the shares. Any such duty must be paid (and the relevant transfer document, if any, stamped by HM Revenue & Customs ("HMRC")) before the transfer can be registered in the books of Venator. However, if those shares are redeposited into DTC, the redeposit will attract stamp duty or SDRT at the rate of 1.5% to be paid by the transferor.

              In connection with the completion of this offering, we expect to put in place arrangements to require that shares held in certificated form cannot be transferred into the DTC system until the transferor of the shares has first delivered the shares to a depositary specified by us so that SDRT may be collected in connection with the initial delivery to the depositary. Any such shares will be evidenced by a receipt issued by the depositary. Before the transfer can be registered in our books, the transferor will also be required to put the depositary in funds to settle the resultant liability to SDRT, which will be charged at a rate of 1.5% of the value of the shares.

If our shares are not eligible for deposit and clearing within the facilities of DTC, then transactions in our securities may be disrupted.

              The facilities of DTC are a widely-used mechanism that allow for rapid electronic transfers of securities between the participants in the DTC system, which include many large banks and brokerage firms. We expect that our ordinary shares will be eligible for deposit and clearing within the DTC system. We expect to enter into arrangements with DTC whereby we will agree to indemnify DTC for any SDRT that may be assessed upon it as a result of its service as a depository and clearing agency for our shares. We expect these actions, among others, will result in DTC agreeing to accept the shares for deposit and clearing within its facilities.

              DTC is not obligated to accept the shares for deposit and clearing within its facilities in connection with this offering and, even if DTC does initially accept the shares, it will generally have discretion to cease to act as a depository and clearing agency for the shares. While we would pursue alternative arrangements to preserve our listing and maintain trading, any such disruption could have a material adverse effect on the market price of our ordinary shares.

If securities or industry analysts do not publish research or reports about our business, if they adversely change their recommendations regarding our shares or if our operating results do not meet their expectations, our share price could decline.

              The trading market for our ordinary shares will be influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts publish about us or our business. If one or more of these analysts cease coverage of our company or fail to publish reports on us regularly, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which in turn could cause our stock price or trading volume to decline. Moreover, if one or more of the analysts who cover our company downgrades our stock or if our operating results do not meet their expectations, our stock price could decline.

52


Table of Contents


FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

              Certain information set forth in this prospectus contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "Exchange Act"). All statements other than historical factual information are forward-looking statements, including without limitation statements regarding: projections of revenue, expenses, profit, margins, tax rates, tax provisions, cash flows, pension and benefit obligations and funding requirements, our liquidity position or other projected financial measures; management's plans and strategies for future operations, including statements relating to anticipated operating performance, cost reductions, restructuring activities, new product and service developments, competitive strengths or market position, acquisitions, divestitures, spin-offs, or other distributions, strategic opportunities, securities offerings, share repurchases, dividends and executive compensation; growth, declines and other trends in markets we sell into; new or modified laws, regulations and accounting pronouncements; outstanding claims, legal proceedings, tax audits and assessments and other contingent liabilities; foreign currency exchange rates and fluctuations in those rates; general economic and capital markets conditions; the timing of any of the foregoing; assumptions underlying any of the foregoing; and any other statements that address events or developments that we intend or believe will or may occur in the future. In some cases, forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "anticipates" or "intends" or the negative of such terms or other comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy. We may also make additional forward-looking statements from time to time. All such subsequent forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, by us or on our behalf, are also expressly qualified by these cautionary statements.

              Forward-looking statements are based on certain assumptions and expectations of future events which may not be accurate or realized. Forward-looking statements also involve risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond our control. Important factors that may materially affect such forward-looking statements and projections include:

    volatile global economic conditions;

    cyclical and volatile TiO 2 products markets;

    highly competitive industries and the need to innovate and develop new products;

    increased manufacturing regulations for some of our products;

    disruptions in production at our manufacturing facilities;

    fluctuations in currency exchange rates and tax rates;

    price volatility or interruptions in supply of raw materials and energy;

    changes to laws, regulations or the interpretation thereof;

    significant investments associated with efforts to transform our business;

    differences in views with our joint venture participants;

    high levels of indebtedness;

    EHS laws and regulations;

    our ability to obtain future capital on favorable terms;

    seasonal sales patterns in our product markets;

    legal claims against us, including antitrust claims;

    our ability to adequately protect our critical information technology systems;

53


Table of Contents

    economic conditions and regulatory changes following the U.K.'s likely exit from the EU;

    failure to maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting and disclosure;

    our indemnification of Huntsman and other commitments and contingencies;

    financial difficulties and related problems experienced by our customers, vendors, suppliers and other business partners;

    failure to enforce our intellectual property rights;

    our ability to effectively manage our labor force;

    conflicts, military actions, terrorist attacks and general instability; and

    our ability to realize the expected benefits of our separation from Huntsman and this offering.

              All forward-looking statements, including, without limitation, management's examination of historical operating trends, are based upon our current expectations and various assumptions. Our expectations, beliefs and projections are expressed in good faith and we believe there is a reasonable basis for them, but there can be no assurance that management's expectations, beliefs and projections will result or be achieved. All forward-looking statements apply only as of the date made. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking statements whether because of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by securities and other applicable law.

              There are a number of risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements contained in or contemplated by this prospectus. Any forward-looking statements should be considered in light of the risks set forth in the section "Risk Factors" and elsewhere in this prospectus.

54


Table of Contents


THE SEPARATION

Background

              As part of a strategic review to streamline and focus operations, Huntsman's board of directors reviewed the possibility and advisability of separating its Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business from Huntsman's other businesses. On September 7, 2016, Huntsman's board of directors authorized management to pursue the separation of its Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives into a separate, publicly traded company. On April 28, 2017, we were formed as an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman.

The Separation

              In connection with this offering, we and Huntsman intend to take certain actions to transfer substantially all of the assets and liabilities of Huntsman's Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business to us through the internal reorganization, and enter into the separation agreement and ancillary agreements to separate our business from Huntsman and govern certain interactions with Huntsman. In addition, in anticipation of this offering, we intend to enter into new financing arrangements. We refer to the internal reorganization, the separation transactions, including the entry into and effectiveness of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, and the Financings, including the use of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt owed to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses, as the "separation." Giving effect to the separation, Huntsman will indirectly own all of our outstanding ordinary shares. The following are the principal steps of the separation:

    Huntsman will transfer to us the entities, assets, liabilities and obligations that we will hold following the separation of our business from Huntsman's other businesses. Such internal reorganization may take the form of asset transfers, dividends, contributions and similar transactions, and may involve the formation of new subsidiaries in U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions to own and operate the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business in such jurisdictions. Among other things and subject to limited exceptions, the internal reorganization is expected to result in us owning, directly or indirectly, the operations comprising, and the entities that conduct, the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business.

    In anticipation of this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings. We expect to incur up to $750 million of new debt, which will include (i) $375 million of senior notes and (ii) borrowings of $375 million under out term loan facility. In addition, we intend to enter into a $300 million ABL facility at closing of this offering. We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. For more information, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Arrangements."

    Immediately prior to the completion of this offering, we intend to enter into the ancillary agreements with Huntsman that will govern certain interactions, including with respect to employee matters, tax matters, transition services and registration rights, described in "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company."

              In the separation, we are generally assuming all of the liabilities related to the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman and we expect to have adequate liquidity to address those liabilities as they materialize. Please see our condensed combined and our combined financial statements and the notes thereto for more information.

55


Table of Contents

              Following this offering, Huntsman intends to transfer to us certain assets and liabilities of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business that, due to business, regulatory or other legal constraints, could not be transferred prior to this offering.

              For more information regarding the agreements we and Huntsman intend to enter into, see "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company."

Reasons for Separation from Huntsman

              Our separation from Huntsman is expected to provide each company with a number of material opportunities and benefits, including the following:

    creating two separate businesses that will be industry leaders in their respective areas of operations;

    allowing investors to evaluate the separate investment identities of each company, including the distinct merits, performance and future prospects of their respective businesses;

    creating two separate capital structures that will afford each company direct access to the debt and equity capital markets to fund their respective growth strategies and to establish an appropriate capital structure for their business needs;

    enhancing the ability of each company to focus on their respective businesses and unique opportunities for long-term growth and profitability and to allocate capital and corporate resources in a manner that focuses on achieving each company's own strategic priorities;

    providing each company with increased flexibility to pursue strategic alternatives, including acquisitions and mergers, without having to consider the potential impact on the businesses of the other company, including funding such acquisitions using their respective common equity; and

    improving each company's ability to attract and retain individuals with the appropriate skill sets as well as to better align compensation and incentives, including equity compensation, with the performance of these different businesses.

56


Table of Contents


USE OF PROCEEDS

              We will not receive any proceeds from the sale by the selling shareholders of our ordinary shares in this offering, including any ordinary shares offered if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares. For information about the selling shareholders, see "Security Ownership of Management and Selling Shareholders."

57


Table of Contents


DIVIDEND POLICY

              Immediately following this offering and for the foreseeable future, we do not expect to pay dividends. However, we anticipate that our board of directors will consider the payment of dividends from time to time to return a portion of our profits to our shareholders when we experience adequate levels of profitability and associated reduced debt leverage. If our board of directors determines to pay any dividend in the future, there can be no assurance that we will continue to pay such dividends or the amount of such dividends. In addition, English law and our debt agreements will place certain restrictions on our ability to pay cash dividends. For more information please see "Risk Factors—Risk Related to Our Ordinary Shares."

58


Table of Contents


CAPITALIZATION

              The following table sets forth our cash and cash equivalents and capitalization as of March 31, 2017:

    on an actual basis; and

    on a pro forma basis to give effect to transactions described in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

              The table below should be read in conjunction with "Summary Historical Combined and Pro Forma Combined Financial Information," "Prospectus Summary—Recent Developments—Financing Arrangements," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations" and our historical combined financial statements and the notes to those statements included elsewhere in this prospectus.

 
  As of March 31, 2017  
 
  Actual   Pro Forma  
 
  (Unaudited)
(in millions)

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

  $ 35   $ 35  

Debt Outstanding

             

Senior credit facilities(1)

  $   $ 375  

Senior notes due 2025

        375  

Debt to affiliates(2)

    894      

Other debt(3)

    23     23  

Total debt

    917     773  

Net Investment / Shareholders' Equity

             

Ordinary shares, $0.001 par value per share: no shares authorized, issued or outstanding, historical;            shares authorized,            shares issued and outstanding, as adjusted

           

Additional paid-in capital

           

Net investment

             

Accumulated other comprehensive income

             

Net investment/shareholders' equity

    277        

Total Capitalization

  $     $           

(1)
After giving effect to the Financings, our senior credit facilities will consist of (a) a $375 million term loan facility, which will be fully drawn at closing, and (b) a $300 million ABL facility, which we currently do not expect to be drawn at closing.

We expect to enter into the ABL facility at the closing of this offering, with up to $300 million of commitments. However, this amount may not reflect actual borrowing capacity insofar as our borrowing capacity under the ABL facility depends, in part, on a borrowing base comprised of a combination of (based upon availability in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, France and Spain) inventory, accounts receivable and other assets that fluctuate from time to time and may be further impacted by the lenders' discretionary ability to impose reserves and availability blocks and to re-characterize assets that might otherwise incrementally increase borrowing availability.

59


Table of Contents

      The term loan facility provides for an option to increase, subject to certain conditions, the aggregate amount of such facility by the Incremental Term Loan Amount (as defined under "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Arrangements."). We may also request incremental facilities under the ABL facility in an aggregate amount up to $100 million.

      The availability of the incremental term loan facilities and incremental facilities under the ABL facility will be subject in each case to our ability to find sources to provide the incremental financing in the market and certain customary terms and conditions, including the absence of events of default and the accuracy of representations and warranties in all material respects. See "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Arrangements."

(2)
Represents intercompany debt owed to Huntsman, all of which will be repaid, capitalized or otherwise eliminated prior to, or concurrently with, the closing of this offering.

(3)
Other debt includes capital leases primarily related to manufacturing facilities, including $10 million current portion of such capital leases.

60


Table of Contents


DILUTION

              Dilution is the amount by which the offering price paid by the purchasers of ordinary shares sold in this offering will exceed the net tangible book value per ordinary share after giving effect to the separation and this offering.

              On a pro forma basis as of                , 2017, our net tangible book value would have been approximately $             million, or $            per ordinary share. This remains unchanged when adjusted for the sale by the selling shareholders of ordinary shares in this offering at an initial public offering price of $                per ordinary share. Purchasers of ordinary shares in this offering will experience substantial and immediate dilution in net tangible book value per share for financial accounting purposes, as illustrated in the following table.

Initial public offering price per share

  $           

Pro Forma net tangible book value per share before and after this offering(1)

  $    

Immediate dilution in net tangible book value per share to purchasers in this offering(2)

  $           

(1)
Determined by dividing the pro forma net tangible book value of the entities, assets, liabilities and obligations that we will hold following the separation of our business from Huntsman's other businesses by the number of ordinary shares issued and outstanding before and after the offering.

(2)
Because the total number of ordinary shares outstanding following this offering will not be impacted by any exercise of the underwriters' option to purchase additional ordinary shares from the selling shareholders and we will not receive any net proceeds from such exercise, there will be no change to the dilution in net tangible book value per share to purchasers in the offering due to any such exercise of the option.

61


Table of Contents


SELECTED HISTORICAL COMBINED FINANCIAL DATA

              The following tables set forth selected historical combined financial data for the periods indicated. Our selected historical unaudited combined financial data for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and the balance sheet data as of March 31, 2017 have been derived from our unaudited condensed combined financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. Our selected historical unaudited combined financial data as of March 31, 2016 has been derived from our unaudited accounting records not included in this prospectus. The unaudited condensed combined financial statements have been prepared on the same basis as our audited combined financial statements and include all normal recurring adjustments that, in the opinion of management, are necessary to present fairly our financial condition and results of operations for such periods. The results of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 presented below are not necessarily indicative of results for the entire fiscal year. Our selected historical combined financial data as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 have been derived from our audited historical combined financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus. Our selected historical combined financial data as of December 31, 2014, 2013 and 2012 and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 have been derived from our unaudited accounting records not included in this prospectus.

              The Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses have historically been included in Huntsman's financial results in different legal forms, including, but not limited to: (1) wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses were the sole businesses; (2) legal entities which are comprised of other businesses and include the Titanium Dioxide and/or Performance Additives businesses; and (3) variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses are the primary beneficiaries. Because our historical combined financial information for the periods indicated reflect the combination of these legal entities under common control, the financial information includes the results of operations of other Huntsman businesses that will not be a part of our operations following our separation from Huntsman. In addition, our historical combined financial information has been derived from Huntsman's historical accounting records and is presented on a stand-alone basis as if the operations of the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses had been conducted separately from Huntsman. However, the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the combined financial statements may not be indicative of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows had the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses been a stand-alone company.

              The financial statements included elsewhere in this prospectus may not necessarily reflect our financial position, results of operations and cash flows as if we had operated as a stand-alone public company during all periods presented. Accordingly, our historical results should not be relied upon as an indicator of our future performance.

              The following selected historical combined financial data should be read in conjunction with "Capitalization," "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between

62


Table of Contents

Huntsman and Our Company" and our historical combined financial statements and related notes thereto appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.

 
  Three Months
Ended March 31,
  Year Ended December 31,  
 
  2017   2016   2016   2015   2014   2013   2012  
 
  (in millions)
 

Statement of Operations Data:

                                           

Revenues

  $ 569   $ 585   $ 2,309   $ 2,330   $ 1,729   $ 1,448   $ 1,596  

Net (loss) income from continuing operations

    (13 )   (48 )   (77 )   (352 )   (162 )   (49 )   150  

Balance Sheet Data (at period end):

                                           

Total assets

  $ 2,873   $ 3,400   $ 2,659   $ 3,413   $ 3,933   $ 2,313   $ 2,247  

Total long-term liabilities

    1,320     1,480     1,308     1,477     1,579     548     484  

63


Table of Contents

UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

              The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information set forth below has been derived from the historical combined financial statements of the Huntsman Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses including the audited combined statement of operations for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the unaudited condensed combined balance sheet as of March 31, 2017 and the unaudited condensed combined statement of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 included elsewhere in this prospectus. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements reflect certain known impacts of our separation from Huntsman and this offering. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements also reflect certain assumptions that we believe are reasonable given the information currently available.

              The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements have generally been prepared giving effect to the separation as if it had occurred as of January 1, 2014 for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations and as of March 31, 2017 for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined balance sheet. However, for the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations, the incurrence of debt under the Financings and the use of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses have been given effect as if they had occurred on January 1, 2016. This debt incurrence and debt repayment is therefore not reflected in the unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

              The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements presented below should be read in conjunction with "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations," our historical combined financial statements and corresponding notes thereto and our unaudited condensed combined financial statements and corresponding notes included elsewhere in this prospectus.

              The historical combined financial statements include all revenues, costs, assets, liabilities and cash flows directly attributable to the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses, as well as allocations of direct and indirect corporate expenses, which are based upon an allocation method that in the opinion of management is reasonable. For purposes of these unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements, all significant transactions with Huntsman International have been included in group equity. All intercompany transactions within the combined Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses have been eliminated.

              The historical combined financial statements have been prepared from Huntsman's historical accounting records and are presented on a stand-alone basis as if the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses had been conducted separately from Huntsman; however, the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the combined financial statements may not be indicative of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows had the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses been a stand-alone company. The Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses operations were included in Huntsman's financial results in different legal forms, including but not limited to: (1) wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments were the sole businesses; (2) legal entities which are comprised of other businesses and include the Titanium Dioxide and/or Performance Additives businesses; and (3) variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses are the primary beneficiaries. Accordingly, the accompanying historical combined financial statements include amounts from the other businesses discussed above that will be retained by Huntsman following this offering. Because the other businesses will be retained by Huntsman and are expected to be treated as discontinued operations upon completion of the legal restructuring prior to

64


Table of Contents

the closing date of this offering, we have included unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and for the three years ended December 31, 2016 that exclude the operations, assets and liabilities of the other businesses that are not part of the Titanium Dioxide or Performance Additives businesses. Please note that the pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 only reflect adjustments to reflect the exclusion of other businesses and are not otherwise adjusted to reflect the separation (including the incurrence of debt under the Financings) or the acquisition of the Rockwood business in 2014.

              The historical combined statements of operations also include expense allocations for certain functions and centrally-located activities historically performed by Huntsman. These functions include executive oversight, accounting, procurement, operations, marketing, internal audit, legal, risk management, finance, tax, treasury, information technology, government relations, investor relations, public relations, financial reporting, human resources, ethics and compliance, and certain other shared services. For more information, see note 2(b) below.

              The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information has been included for illustrative and informational purposes only and is not intended to represent or be indicative of what our financial condition or results of operations would have been had the Huntsman Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses operated historically as a company separate from Huntsman or if the separation had occurred on the dates indicated. The unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information also should not be considered representative of our future combined financial condition or combined results of operations.

65


Table of Contents


Venator Materials PLC
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)
PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET (UNAUDITED)
AS OF MARCH 31, 2017
(Dollars in millions)

 
  Historical   Legal
Entities
Adjustment (a)
  Subtotal    
  Other
Pro Forma
Adjustments
   
  Pro Forma    

ASSETS

                                         

Current assets:

                                         

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 35   $   $ 35       $       $ 35    

Accounts receivable, net

    275     (10 )   265         108   b     373    

Accounts receivable from affiliates

    502     (73 )   429         (429 )         g

Inventories

    440     (11 )   429                 429    

Prepaid expenses

    11     (1 )   10                 10    

Other current assets

    63     (1 )   62                 62    

Total current assets

    1,326     (96 )   1,230         (321 )       909    

Property, plant and equipment, net

    1,170     (14 )   1,156                 1,156    

Intangible assets, net

    22         22                 22    

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

    88     14     102                 102    

Deferred income taxes

    175     (18 )   157                 157    

Notes receivable from affiliates

    57         57         (57 )         g

Other noncurrent assets

    35     (1 )   34                 34    

Total assets

  $ 2,873   $ (115 ) $ 2,758       $ (378 )     $ 2,380    

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

                                         

Current liabilities:

                                         

Accounts payable

  $ 295   $ (11 ) $ 284       $       $ 284    

Accounts payable to affiliates

    783     (10 )   773         (773 )         g

Accrued liabilities

    188     (7 )   181   f             181    

Current portion of debt

    10         10                 10    

Total current liabilities

    1,276     (28 )   1,248         (773 )       475    

Long-term debt

    13         13         [        ]   c     [        ]    

Long-term debt to affiliates

    894         894         (894 )         g

Deferred income taxes

    10     1     11                 11    

Other noncurrent liabilities

    403     (80 )   323   f             323    

Total liabilities

    2,596     (107 )   2,489         [        ]         [        ]    

Equity

                                         

Parent's net investment and advances

    678     (27 )   651         (651 ) d        

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (414 )   19     (395 )               (395 )  

Ordinary shares

                    [        ]   d, e     [        ]    

Additional paid-in capital

                    [        ]   d     [        ]    

Total Venator equity

    264     (8 )   256         [        ]         [        ]    

Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries

    13         13                 13    

Total equity

    277     (8 )   269         [        ]         [        ]    

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 2,873   $ (115 ) $ 2,758       $ [        ]       $ [        ]    

   

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

66


Table of Contents


Venator Materials PLC
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)
PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2016
(Dollars and shares in millions, except per share amounts)

 
  Historical   Legal Entities
Adjustment (a)
  Subtotal   Other Pro
Forma
Adjustments
   
  Pro Forma    

Revenues:

                                     

Trade sales, services and fees, net

  $ 2,249   $ (110 ) $ 2,139   $       $ 2,139    

Related party sales

    60     (60 )                  

Total revenues

    2,309     (170 )   2,139             2,139    

Cost of goods sold

    2,134     (147 )   1,987             1,987    

Operating expenses:

                                     

Selling, general and administrative

    240     (15 )   225             225   b

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    35         35             35    

Other (income) expense, net

    (46 )   1     (45 )           (45 )  

Total expenses

    229     (14 )   215             215    

Operating loss

    (54 )   (9 )   (63 )           (63 )  

Interest expense

    (59 )   1     (58 )   [            ]   c     [            ]    

Interest income

    15     (1 )   14     [            ]   c     [            ]    

Other (expense) income, net

    (1 )   7     6             6    

Loss before income taxes

    (99 )   (2 )   (101 )   [            ]         [            ]    

Income tax benefit

    22     1     23     [            ]   e     [            ]    

Net loss

    (77 )   (1 )   (78 )   [            ]         [            ]    

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (10 )       (10 )           (10 )  

Net loss attributable to Venator

  $ (87 ) $ (1 ) $ (88 ) $ [            ]       $ [            ]    

Basic and diluted loss per ordinary share:

                                     

Net loss attributable to Venator

                              $ [            ]    

Weighted average shares

                      [            ]   d     [            ]    

   

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

67


Table of Contents


Venator Materials PLC
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)
PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2015
(Dollars and shares in millions, except per share amounts)

 
  Historical   Legal Entities
Adjustment (a)
  Pro Forma    

Revenues:

                     

Trade sales, services and fees, net

  $ 2,270   $ (108 ) $ 2,162    

Related party sales

    60     (60 )      

Total revenues

    2,330     (168 )   2,162    

Cost of goods sold

    2,192     (146 )   2,046    

Operating expenses:

                     

Selling, general and administrative

    271     (8 )   263   b

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    223     (5 )   218    

Other (income) expense, net

    (3 )   2     (1 )  

Total expenses

    491     (11 )   480    

Operating loss

    (353 )   (11 )   (364 )  

Interest expense

    (52 )       (52 )  

Interest income

    22         22    

Loss before income taxes

    (383 )   (11 )   (394 )  

Income tax benefit

    31     (2 )   29    

Net loss

    (352 )   (13 )   (365 )  

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (7 )       (7 )  

Net loss attributable to Venator

  $ (359 ) $ (13 ) $ (372 )  

Basic and diluted loss per ordinary share:

                     

Net loss attributable to Venator

              $ [            ]    

Weighted average shares

                [            ]    

   

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

68


Table of Contents


Venator Materials PLC
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)
PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
(Dollars and shares in millions, except per share amounts)

 
  Historical   Legal Entities
Adjustment (a)
  Pro Forma    

Revenues:

                     

Trade sales, services and fees, net

  $ 1,654   $ (105 ) $ 1,549    

Related party sales

    75     (75 )      

Total revenues

    1,729     (180 )   1,549    

Cost of goods sold

    1,637     (154 )   1,483    

Operating expenses:

                     

Selling, general and administrative

    199     (17 )   182   b

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    62     (2 )   60    

Other expense, net

    7     3     10    

Total expenses

    268     (16 )   252    

Operating loss

    (176 )   (10 )   (186 )  

Interest expense

    (25 )       (25 )  

Interest income

    23         23    

Other expense

    (1 )       (1 )  

Loss before income taxes

    (179 )   (10 )   (189 )  

Income tax benefit

    17     1     18    

Net loss

    (162 )   (9 )   (171 )  

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (2 )       (2 )  

Net loss attributable to Venator

  $ (164 ) $ (9 ) $ (173 )  

Basic and diluted loss per ordinary share:

                     

Net loss attributable to Venator

              $ [    ]    

Weighted average shares

                [    ]    

   

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

69


Table of Contents


Venator Materials PLC
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)
PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS (UNAUDITED)
THREE MONTHS ENDED MARCH 31, 2017
(Dollars and shares in millions, except per share amounts)

 
  Historical   Legal Entities
Adjustment(a)
  Subtotal   Other
Pro Forma
Adjustments
   
  Pro Forma    

Revenues:

                                     

Trade sales, services and fees, net

  $ 552   $ (15 ) $ 537   $       $ 537    

Related party sales

    17     (17 )                  

Total revenues

    569     (32 )   537             537    

Cost of goods sold

    489     (26 )   463             463    

Operating expenses:

                                     

Selling, general and administrative

    44     8     52             52   b

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    27     (1 )   26             26    

Other expense (income), net

    11     (2 )   9             9    

Total expenses

    82     5     87             87    

Operating loss

    (2 )   (11 )   (13 )           (13 )  

Interest expense

    (14 )   1     (13 )   [        ]   c     [        ]    

Interest income

    2     (1 )   1     [        ]         [        ]    

Loss before income taxes

    (14 )   (11 )   (25 )   [        ]         [        ]    

Income tax benefit

    1     4     5     [        ]   e     [        ]    

Net loss

    (13 )   (7 )   (20 )   [        ]         [        ]    

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (3 )       (3 )           (3 )  

Net loss attributable to Venator

  $ (16 ) $ (7 ) $ (23 ) $ [        ]       $ [        ]    

Basic and diluted loss per ordinary share:

                                     

Net loss attributable to Venator

                              $ [        ]    

Weighted average shares

                      [        ]   d     [        ]    

   

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial statements.

70


Table of Contents


Venator Materials PLC
Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Combined Financial Statements

NOTE 1—ADJUSTMENTS TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEET

(a)
The Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments' operations were included in Huntsman's financial results in different legal forms, including but not limited to wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments were the sole businesses, components of legal entities in which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments operated in conjunction with other Huntsman businesses and variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments are the primary beneficiaries. As such, the accompanying historical combined financial statements include amounts from those other businesses that will ultimately not be part of Venator after the separation. These adjustments reflect the exclusion of amounts from those other businesses.

(b)
Certain legal entities comprising the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments participate in Huntsman A/R Programs. Under the A/R Programs, these entities sell certain of their trade receivables to Huntsman International. Huntsman International grants an undivided interest in these receivables to a special purpose entity, which serves as security for the issuance of debt of Huntsman International. These entities continue to service the securities receivables. On April 21, 2017, Huntsman International amended its accounts receivable securitization facilities, which among other things removed existing receivables sold into the program by the Pigments and Additives business. In addition, after April 21, 2017 receivables generated by the Pigments and Additives legal entities will no longer participate in the Huntsman A/R Program sponsored by Huntsman. This adjustment reflects the inclusion of accounts receivable previously sold into the A/R Programs by one of the legal entities comprising the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments.

(c)
Prior to the completion of this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings. We expect to incur up to $750 million of new debt, which will include (i) $375 million of senior notes and (ii) borrowings of $375 million under our term loan facility. For additional information regarding the senior notes and the term loan facility, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Arrangements.". We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. This adjustment reflects the incurrence of $750 million of new debt by us, the assumption of $       million of intercompany debt from Huntsman International and its subsidiaries and the application of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, including the assumed debt from Huntsman International and its subsidiaries. As described in note (g) below, any remaining intercompany debt would be eliminated.

71


Table of Contents

(d)
These adjustments reflect the elimination of Huntsman's net investment in, and advances to, us and adjustments to additional paid-in capital resulting from the following:

Reclassification of parent's net investment and advances

  $ 651  

Contribution by parent of accounts receivable previously sold into the A/R Programs

    108  

Exclusion of intercompany balances, net

    1,181  

Inclusion of debt

    [      ]  

Dividend payment

    [      ]  

Issuance of ordinary shares

    [      ]  

Additional paid-in capital

  $ [      ]  
(e)
Giving effect to certain formation transactions and redemptions, this adjustment reflects the issuance of                and                of our ordinary shares to Huntsman International and HHN, respectively, prior to this offering, at a par value of $0.001 per share.

(f)
Includes net unfunded pension and postretirement obligations of approximately $266 million.

(g)
Prior to, or concurrently with, the closing date of this offering, all outstanding balances with affiliates will be repaid, capitalized or otherwise eliminated.

NOTE 2—ADJUSTMENTS TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(a)
The Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments' operations were included in Huntsman's financial results in different legal forms, including but not limited to wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments were the sole businesses, components of legal entities in which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments operated in conjunction with other Huntsman businesses and variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments are the primary beneficiaries. As such, the accompanying historical combined financial statements include amounts from other businesses that will be retained by Huntsman following this offering. These adjustments reflect the exclusion of amounts from these other businesses.

(b)
We expect that our recurring selling, general and administrative expense (including any incremental stand-alone public company expense) will be lower than costs allocated to legal entities which will continue to be a part of Venator following this offering as reflected in our statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016. The anticipated reduction in selling, general and administrative expense on a consolidated basis principally relates to lower expected overhead costs for us relative to the allocation from Huntsman included in our historical statements of operations with respect to (i) finance, accounting, compliance, investor relations, treasury, internal audit and legal personnel, (ii) information technology costs (iii) professional fees associated with legal and other services, and (iv) executive compensation. Actual expenses could vary from this estimate and such variations could be material.

Relative to our pro forma Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additive segments for the year ended December 31, 2016, we expect these segments to be burdened annually by an approximate incremental $33 million to $38 million (before depreciation and amortization) of selling, general and administrative expense (relating to stand-alone public company expense) in the aggregate.

(c)
This adjustment reflects the following increase in interest expense resulting from our expected issuance of $375 million of senior notes, borrowings of $375 million under our term loan facility, commitment fees related to our new $300 million ABL facility, the elimination of

72


Table of Contents

    $1,181 million of intercompany balances, net, and our removal from Huntsman International's A/R Program in connection with the separation:

 
  Three Months
Ended March 31,
2017
  Year Ended
December 31,
2016
 
 
  (in millions)
 

Interest expense on $      million of newly incurred indebtedness

  $     $    

Amortization of debt issuance costs

             

Commitment fee on ABL Facility

             

Elimination of securitization fees

    1     5  

Elimination of interest expense, net from intercompany balances

    (11 )   (45 )

Tax impact of changes in interest

    [    ]     [    ]  

Total pro forma adjustment

  $     $    

      Pro forma interest expense was calculated based on an assumed blended interest rate of    % using the actual interest rates for the $375 million of senior notes and market rates on borrowings of $375 million under our term loan facility. Interest expense also includes estimated amortization on approximately $       million of debt issuance costs related to the senior notes offering and the debt we intend to incur under the term loan facility. Such costs are amortized over the terms of the associated debt. Interest expense also includes an estimated     % commitment fee on the anticipated new $300 million ABL Facility. Actual interest expense may be higher or lower depending on fluctuations in interest rates. For example, assuming all commitments were available and all loans under the ABL facility were fully drawn, a 1% increase in interest rates, without giving effect to interest rate hedges or other offsetting items, would increase our annual interest rate expense by approximately $7 million.

(d)
This adjustment reflects the issuance of            of our ordinary shares to Huntsman in connection with the separation at a par value of $0.001 per share.

(e)
This adjustment represents the tax effect of the currently anticipated restructuring of intercompany liabilities and receivables in connection with the separation, presented on a stand-alone basis as if the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments' operations had been conducted separately from Huntsman; however, the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the pro forma combined financial statements may not be indicative of the income tax expense or benefit, and income tax related assets and liabilities had the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments been a stand-alone company. The adjustment also represents the tax effect of pro forma adjustments to income before income taxes based upon our current assumptions of the impacted tax jurisdiction.

73


Table of Contents


MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

               The following discussion and analysis of financial condition and results of operations (MD&A) should be read in conjunction with the information under the headings "Risk Factors," "Selected Historical Combined Financial Data," "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information" and "Business," as well as the audited combined financial statements, unaudited condensed combined financial statements and the related notes thereto, all appearing elsewhere in this prospectus.

               The following MD&A gives effect to the restatement as described in Note 13 to our condensed combined financial statements and Note 25 to our combined financial statements. Except when the context otherwise requires or where otherwise indicated, (1) all references to "Venator," the "Company," "we," "us" and "our" refer to Venator Materials PLC and its subsidiaries, or, as the context requires, the Pigments & Additives business of Huntsman, and assume the completion of all of the transactions referred to in this prospectus in connection with this offering, (2) all references to "Huntsman" refer to Huntsman Corporation, our ultimate parent company prior to this offering, and our controlling shareholder following this offering, and its subsidiaries, other than us, (3) all references to the "Titanium Dioxide" segment or business refer to the TiO 2 business of the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman and the related operations and assets, liabilities and obligations, which we will assume in connection with the separation, (4) all references to the "Performance Additives" segment or business refer to the functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment businesses of the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman and the related operations and assets, liabilities and obligations, which we will assume in connection with the separation, (5) all references to "other businesses" refer to certain businesses that Huntsman will retain following the separation and that are included in our historical combined financial statements in "corporate and other", (6) all references to "Huntsman International" refer to Huntsman International LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman, a selling shareholder and the entity through which Huntsman operates all of its businesses, (7) all references to "HHN" refer to Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman and a selling shareholder, (8) all references to the "selling shareholders" refer to Huntsman International and HHN, our parent companies prior to this offering, and the entity through which Huntsman is selling our ordinary shares in this offering, (9) "Financings" has the meaning set forth under "Prospectus Summary—Recent Developments—Financing Arrangements" and (10) we refer to the internal reorganization, the separation transactions, including the entry into and effectiveness of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, and the Financings, including the use of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses, as the "separation."

               This MD&A contains forward-looking statements concerning trends or events potentially affecting our business or future performance, including, without limitation, statements relating to our plans, strategies, objectives, expectations and intentions. The words "aim," "anticipate," "believe," "budget," "continue," "could," "effort," "estimate," "expect," "forecast," "goal," "guidance," "intend," "likely," "may," "might," "objective," "outlook," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "seek," "should," "target, "will" or "would" and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. We do not undertake to update, revise or correct any of the forward-looking information unless required to do so under the federal securities laws. When considering these forward-looking statements, you should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements contained in this prospectus. See "Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors."

Our Relationship with Huntsman

              On September 7, 2016, Huntsman's board of directors authorized management to pursue the separation from Huntsman of its Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses into a separate, publicly traded company. On April 28, 2017, we were formed as an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman. Upon the completion of this offering, we will be a stand-alone public company

74


Table of Contents

and Huntsman, through HHN, will own        % of our outstanding ordinary shares, or        % if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full. Huntsman currently intends to monetize its retained ownership stake in Venator following this offering. Subject to prevailing market and other conditions (including the terms of Huntsman's lock-up agreement), this future monetization may be effected in multiple follow-on capital market or block transactions that permit an orderly distribution of Huntsman's retained shares.

              On May 22, 2017, Huntsman announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement to combine with Clariant, a specialty chemicals company headquartered in Switzerland, in an all-stock merger. The combined company will be named HuntsmanClariant. Legacy Huntsman and Clariant shareholders are expected to own 48% and 52% of the combined company, respectively. The board of directors of the combined company is expected to have equal representation from the legacy Huntsman and Clariant boards. The merger is expected to close by year-end 2017, subject to Huntsman and Clariant shareholder approvals, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The merger agreement permits Huntsman to proceed with our initial public offering and we currently expect to complete the initial public offering prior to the closing of the merger.

Basis of Presentation

              The Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses have historically been included in Huntsman's financial results in different legal forms, including, but not limited to: (1) wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses were the sole businesses; (2) legal entities which are comprised of other businesses and include the Titanium Dioxide and/or Performance Additives businesses; and (3) variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses are the primary beneficiaries. Because our historical combined financial information for the periods indicated reflect the combination of these legal entities under common control, our financial statements include the results of operations of other Huntsman businesses that will not be a part of our operations following this offering. We will report the results of those other businesses as discontinued operations in our future financial statements for periods that include the date of completion of the separation.

              Our historical financial information has been derived from Huntsman's historical accounting records and is presented on a stand-alone basis as if the operations of the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses had been conducted separately from Huntsman. However, the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the combined financial statements may not be indicative of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows had the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses been a stand-alone company.

              The combined financial statements include all revenues, costs, assets, liabilities and cash flows directly attributable to the Titanium Dioxide, Performance Additives and other businesses, as well as allocations of direct and indirect corporate expenses, which are based upon an allocation method that in the opinion of management is reasonable. For purposes of the combined financial statements, all significant transactions with Huntsman International have been included in group equity. All intercompany transactions within our combined business have been eliminated.

Overview

              We are a leading global manufacturer and marketer of chemical products that improve the quality of life for downstream consumers and promote a sustainable future. Our products comprise a broad range of innovative chemicals and formulations that bring color and vibrancy to buildings, protect and extend product life, and reduce energy consumption. We market our products globally to a diversified group of industrial customers through two segments: Titanium Dioxide, which consists of our

75


Table of Contents

TiO 2 business, and Performance Additives, which consists of our functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment businesses. We are a leading global producer in many of our key product lines, including TiO 2 , color pigments and functional additives, a leading North American producer of timber treatment products and a leading European producer of water treatment products. We operate 27 facilities, employ approximately 4,500 associates worldwide and sell our products in more than 110 countries. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2017, we had total pro forma revenues of $2,136 million.

Factors Affecting Comparability of Our Historical Financial Results of Operations to Our Future Financial Results of Operations

              Following this offering, we will operate as a stand-alone company and, as a result, the future results of operations will not be comparable to the historical results of operations for the periods presented, primarily because:

    The results of operations from other businesses that will be retained by Huntsman that are included in our historical financial statements will not be included in our future results from continuing operations for periods that include the date of separation, affecting the comparability of our historical results to our future results of operation. See "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information." Those other businesses do not affect our segment results for the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments.

    The combined statements of operations and interim condensed combined income statement also include expense allocations for certain functions and centrally-located activities historically performed by Huntsman. These functions include executive oversight, accounting, procurement, operations, marketing, internal audit, legal, risk management, finance, tax, treasury, information technology, government relations, investor relations, public relations, financial reporting, human resources, ethics and compliance, and certain other shared services. These allocations are based primarily on specific identification of time or activities associated with us, employee headcount or our relative size compared to Huntsman. Our management believes the assumptions underlying the combined financial statements, including the assumptions regarding allocating expenses from Huntsman, are reasonable. Following the completion of this offering, we expect Huntsman to continue to provide some services related to these functions on a transitional basis for a fee. These services will be provided under the transition services agreement described in "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company." Upon completion of this offering, we will assume responsibility for all our standalone public company costs, including the costs of corporate services currently provided by Huntsman.

    We expect that our recurring selling, general and administrative expense (including any incremental stand-alone public company expense) will be lower than costs historically allocated to legal entities which will continue to be a part of Venator following this offering as reflected in our statement of operations for the year ended December 31, 2016. The anticipated reduction in selling, general and administrative expense on a consolidated basis principally relates to lower expected overhead costs for us relative to the allocation from Huntsman included in our historical statements of operations with respect to (i) finance, accounting, compliance, investor relations, treasury, internal audit and legal personnel, (ii) information technology costs (iii) professional fees associated with legal and other services, and (iv) executive compensation. Relative to our pro forma Segment Adjusted EBITDA for the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additive segments for the year ended December 31, 2016, we expect these segments to be burdened annually by an approximate incremental $33 million to $38 million (before depreciation and amortization) of selling, general and administrative expense (relating to stand-alone public company expense) in the

76


Table of Contents

      aggregate. Actual expenses could vary from this estimate and such variations could be material. Subject to the terms of the separation agreement, nonrecurring third-party costs and expenses that are related to the separation, other than the debt-related costs, and incurred prior to the separation date will generally be paid by Huntsman. We expect such nonrecurring amounts to include costs to separate and/or duplicate information technology systems, outside legal and accounting fees, and similar costs. See "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information."

    We have historically participated in Huntsman's corporate treasury management program and have not incurred or carried any third-party debt (other than capital leases). Excess cash generated by our business has been distributed to Huntsman, and likewise our cash needs have been provided by Huntsman. Accordingly, we have not included third-party debt (other than capital leases) or related interest expense in our combined financial statements because there was no specifically identifiable third-party debt associated with our operations. In connection with this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings and expect to incur up to $750 million of new debt, which will include (i) $375 million of senior notes and (ii) borrowings of $375 million under our term loan facility. In addition, we intend to enter into a $300 million ABL facility at closing of this offering. We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. As a result, the capitalization of our business will be different and we will incur cash interest expenses as well as amortization of financing costs. See "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information."

    We expect to institute competitive compensation policies and programs as a standalone public company, the expense for which may differ from the compensation expense allocated by Huntsman in our combined financial statements.

    We are comprised of operations in various tax jurisdictions. Our operations were included in Huntsman's financial results in different legal forms, including but not limited to wholly-owned subsidiaries for which we were the sole business, components of legal entities in which we operated in conjunction with other Huntsman businesses and variable interest entities in which we are the primary beneficiary.

    Similarly, our tax obligations and filings were included in different legal forms, including, but not limited to, legal entities in certain countries where fiscal unity or consolidation is allowed or required with other Huntsman businesses, components of legal entities in which we operated in conjunction with other Huntsman businesses, and legal entities which file separate tax returns in their respective tax jurisdictions.

    The combined financial statements have been prepared from Huntsman's historical accounting records and are presented on a stand-alone basis as if our operations had been conducted separately from Huntsman; however, we did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the tax results and attributes presented in our combined financial statements would not be indicative of the income tax expense or benefit, income tax related assets and liabilities and cash taxes had we been a stand-alone company.

    The combined financial statements have been prepared under our currently anticipated legal structure such that the historical results of legal entities are presented as follows: The historical tax results of legal entities which file separate tax returns in their respective tax jurisdictions and which need no restructuring before being contributed to us are included without adjustment, including the inclusion of any currently held subsidiaries. The historical tax results of legal entities in which we operated in conjunction with other Huntsman

77


Table of Contents

      businesses that will be retained by Huntsman following the separation for which new legal entities will be formed for our operations are presented on a stand-alone basis as if their operations had been conducted separately from Huntsman and any adjustments to current taxes payable have been treated as adjustments to parent's net investment and advances. The historical tax results of legal entities in which we operated in conjunction with other Huntsman businesses for which the Huntsman business will be transferred out to different legal entities have been presented without adjustment, including the historical results of the other Huntsman businesses which are unrelated to our continuing operating businesses.

      Pursuant to tax-sharing agreements, subsidiaries of Huntsman are charged or credited, in general, with an amount of income taxes as if they filed separate income tax returns. Adjustments to current income taxes payable by us have been treated as adjustments to parent's net investment and advances.

      We include the U.S. Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives subsidiaries of Huntsman International which are treated for U.S. tax purposes as divisions of Huntsman International. Huntsman International is included in the U.S. consolidated tax return of its parent, Huntsman. A 2% U.S. state income tax rate (net of federal benefit) was estimated for us based upon the estimated apportionment factors and actual income tax rates in state tax jurisdictions where we have nexus. U.S. foreign tax credits relating to taxes paid by non-U.S. business entities have been generated and utilized by Huntsman. On a separate entity basis, these foreign tax credits would not have been generated or utilized. Therefore, no additional allocation of Huntsman foreign tax credits was necessary. Additionally, Huntsman had no U.S. net operating loss carryforward amounts ("NOLs") or similar attributes to allocate to us. We believe this methodology is reasonable and complies with Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 1B, Allocation of Expenses and Related Disclosure in Financial Statements of Subsidiaries, Divisions or Lesser Business Components of Another Entity .

              In addition, there were acquisitions, dispositions and restructuring initiatives completed in the periods presented that will impact the comparability of the historical results of operations for the periods presented and to future periods, primarily comprising the following:

    On October 1, 2014, Huntsman completed the acquisition of the TiO 2 and performance additives businesses of Rockwood. Huntsman paid $1.02 billion in cash and assumed certain unfunded pension liabilities in connection with the Rockwood acquisition and subsequently contributed these businesses to our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments. In connection with securing certain regulatory approvals required to complete the Rockwood acquisition, Huntsman sold our TiO 2 TR52 product line used in printing inks to Henan Billions Chemicals Co., Ltd. ("Henan") in December 2014.

    In 2014, our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses began taking significant actions to improve their global competitiveness and implemented a comprehensive restructuring program. In connection with this restructuring program, the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments recorded significant charges relating to workforce reductions, pension related charges and other restructuring costs that impact comparability of our historical financial statements as well as future financial statements. We expect following this offering, to incur charges related to this restructuring program. As of March 31, 2017, we had approximately $34 million of reserves accrued for our remaining Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments restructuring liabilities, approximately $30 million of which was classified as current.

    In February 2015, Huntsman announced a plan to close the black end manufacturing operations and ancillary activities at our Calais, France site, which will reduce our TiO 2 nameplate capacity by approximately 100,000 metric tons or 11% of our total TiO 2 capacity.

78


Table of Contents

      In 2015, the Titanium Dioxide segment began to accelerate depreciation on the affected assets and recorded accelerated depreciation in 2015 of $68 million as restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs. In addition, during 2015, the Titanium Dioxide segment recorded charges of $30 million primarily for workforce reductions and non-cash charges of $17 million and, in the first quarter of 2016, recorded further restructuring charges of $1 million.

    In March 2017, we announced a plan to close the white end finishing and packaging operations of our TiO 2 manufacturing facility at our Calais, France site. The announced plan follows the 2015 announcement of the closure of the black end manufacturing operations and would result in the closure of the entire facility. In connection with this closure, we recorded restructuring expense of $22 million in the three months ended March 31, 2017. We recorded $4 million of accelerated depreciation on the remaining long-lived assets associated with this manufacturing facility during the three months ended March 31, 2016. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $41 million for this facility closure through the end of 2021.

    During the fourth quarter of 2015, we determined that our South African asset group was impaired and recorded an impairment charge of $19 million. On July 6, 2016, we announced plans to close our South African TiO 2 manufacturing facility. We recorded restructuring expenses of approximately $1 million in the three months ended March 31, 2017 and approximately $6 million in the year ended December 31, 2016. Additionally, we recorded an impairment charge of $1 million during the second quarter of 2016. The majority of the long-lived assets associated with this manufacturing facility were impaired in the fourth quarter of 2015. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $4 million through the end of the third quarter of 2018.

    On January 30, 2017, our TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland experienced fire damage, and it is currently not fully operational. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded a loss of $32 million for the write-off of fixed assets and lost inventory in other operating (income) expense, net in our condensed combined statements of operations (without taking into account the insurance recoveries discussed below). In addition, we recorded a loss of $4 million of costs for cleanup of the facility through March 31, 2017. The site is insured for property damage as well as business interruption losses subject to retained deductibles of $15 million and 60 days, respectively, with a limit of $500 million. On February 9, 2017, we received $54 million as an initial partial progress payment from our insurer. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded $32 million of income related to insurance recoveries in other operating (income) expense, net in our condensed combined statements of operations and we recorded $22 million as a deferred income in accrued liabilities for costs not yet incurred. We expect the Pori facility to restart in phases as follows: approximately 20% capacity in the second quarter of 2017; approximately 40% capacity in the second quarter of 2018; and full capacity around the end of 2018. While we and Huntsman are committed to (i) repairing the facility as quickly as possible, and (ii) working with our insurer to recoup losses incurred as a result of the fire, until full repairs are made, we have lost access to TiO 2 nameplate capacity of up to 130,000 metric tons, which represents approximately 17% of our total TiO 2 nameplate capacity.

    We have recently identified plans for business improvements in our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to provide additional contributions to Adjusted EBITDA beginning in 2017 and to be completed by the end of 2018. If successfully implemented, we expect the general cost reductions and optimization of our manufacturing network to result in increases to our Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $60 million per year by the first quarter of 2019, with additional projected increases to Adjusted EBITDA

79


Table of Contents

      from volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products). We currently estimate that these business improvements will require approximately $90 million of cash restructuring costs through 2020. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—If we are unable to successfully implement our cost reduction program and related strategic initiatives, we may not realize the benefits we anticipate from such programs or may incur additional and/or unexpected costs in order to realize them."

    In February 2017, Huntsman filed suit against the legacy owner and certain former executives of Rockwood, primarily related to the failure of new technology that Huntsman acquired in the Rockwood acquisition that was to be implemented at the new Augusta, Georgia, facility and subsequently at other facilities. Huntsman is seeking various forms of legal remedy, including compensatory damages, punitive damages, expectation damages, consequential damages and restitution. Venator is not party to the suit. The separation agreement includes provisions addressing such matters, including Huntsman retaining all rights to the claims against the defendants in such suit. The following table summarizes revenues, income from operations and operating cash flows for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 as well as total assets as of March 31, 2017 and 2016 and December 31, 2016 and 2015 that are attributable to the businesses acquired in the Rockwood acquisition and that will ultimately be part of Venator after the separation.
 
  Three Months
Ended
March 31,
  Year Ended
December 31,
 
 
  2017   2016   2016   2015   2014  
 
  (in millions)
 

Statement of Operations and Cash Flows Data:

                               

Revenues

  $ 380   $ 401   $ 1,561   $ 1,509   $ 330  

Net income (loss) from continuing operations

    6     (4 )   18     (58 )   2  

Operating cash flows

    (94 )   23     70     126     (3 )

Balance Sheet Data (at period end):

                               

Total assets

  $ 1,847   $ 1,720   $ 1,699   $ 1,679        

Total long-term liabilities

    539     542     526     531        

Raw Material Costs

              The primary variable manufacturing costs in our TiO 2 business are titanium-bearing feedstocks and energy.

              Feedstocks are available in different forms, including ilmenite, sulfate slag, synthetic rutile and chloride slag. Our manufacturing facilities use the different forms in varying proportions depending on their technology and configuration. We incurred manufacturing costs of $388 million and $440 million for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, in relation to feedstocks.

              The energy used in TiO 2 manufacturing includes electricity, gas and steam. The costs in each location primarily depend on the plant design and prevailing market prices. The manufacturing costs of energy for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015 were $183 million and $218 million, respectively.

Business Environment and Industry Outlook

              Global TiO 2 demand growth rates tend to track global GDP growth rates over the medium term; however, this varies by region. Developed markets such as the U.S. and Western Europe exhibit higher consumption per person but lower demand growth rates, while emerging markets such as Asia

80


Table of Contents

exhibit higher demand growth rates. The TiO 2 industry experiences some seasonality in sales reflecting the high exposure to seasonal coatings end-use markets. Coating sales generally peak during the spring and summer months in the northern hemisphere, resulting in greater sales volumes during the second and third quarters of the year.

              We are one of the six major producers of TiO 2 in the world that collectively account for approximately 60% of global TiO 2 production capacity according to TZMI. Producers of the remaining 40% are primarily single-plant producers that focus on regional sales. TiO 2 supply has historically kept pace with increases in demand as producers increased capacity through low cost incremental debottlenecks, efficiency improvements and, more recently, new capacity additions mainly in China. During periods of low TiO 2 demand, the industry experiences high stock levels and consequently reduces production to manage working capital. Pricing in the industry is driven primarily by the supply/demand balance.

              Global TiO 2 sales in 2016 exceeded 6.0 million metric tons, generating approximately $12.6 billion in industry-wide revenues based on data provided by TZMI. The global TiO 2 market is highly competitive, and competition is based primarily on product price, quality and technical service. We face competition from producers using the chloride process as well as those using the sulfate process. Due to the ease of transporting TiO 2 , there is also competition between producers with facilities in different geographies. Over the last decade, there has been substantial growth in TiO 2 demand in emerging economies, notably Asia. The growing demand in Asia has consumed the majority of Chinese production. We operate primarily in markets where our product quality and service are valued or preferred by our customers and differentiate us from Chinese TiO 2 competitors. Cost advantages are typically driven by the scale of the plant, type of feedstock, source of energy and cost of local labor. The profitability of a plant is not solely related to its cost structure, but also importantly to its slate of manufactured products. We are generally able to reduce production costs by finding innovative solutions to convert the by-products arising from our sulfate process into value-adding co-products. Today, approximately 60% of all by-products of our sulfate processes are sold as co-products, and we are one of the largest producers of sulfate co-products in the world, including gypsum, copperas and other iron salts. We believe our differentiated and specialty products, along with our ability to profitably commercialize the associated co-products, enhance our plants' overall efficiency and resulting profitability. With our competitive cost structure, and our slate of differentiated and specialty products, we believe we are well positioned to compete in a cyclical market.

              Historically, the market for large volume TiO 2 applications, including coatings, paper and plastics, has experienced alternating periods of tight supply, causing prices and margins to increase, followed by periods of lower capacity utilization, resulting in declining prices and margins. The volatility this market experiences occurs as a result of significant changes in the demand for products as a consequence of global economic activity and changes in customers' requirements. The supply-demand balance is also impacted by capacity additions or reductions that result in changes of utilization rates. In addition, TiO 2 margins are impacted by significant changes in major input costs such as energy and feedstock.

              Profitability for TiO 2 reached a peak in 2011, with significantly higher demand, prices and margins. Based on publicly available information, we believe that during this period of peak profitability many TiO 2 peer companies, including Huntsman's TiO 2 business, generated EBITDA margins in excess of 25%. Following the peak, utilization rates dropped in 2012 as demand fell due to weaker economic conditions, industry de-stocking and the addition of new TiO 2 capacity. There was an associated decline in prices and margins. Over the following three years, demand recovered slowly; however, this modest demand improvement did not result in any significant increase in operating rates, and TiO 2 prices consequently declined throughout the period. After reaching a trough in the first quarter of 2016, supply/demand fundamentals began improving in 2016 primarily due to strong global demand growth and some capacity rationalizations. Though the TiO 2 market has shown signs of recovery, prices and

81


Table of Contents

margins remain below long-term historical averages. With the expectation of global capacity utilization rate improvements and further price increases, TiO 2 margins are expected to increase. With approximately 70% of our revenue during the twelve months ended March 31, 2017 being derived from TiO 2 sales, we believe recovery in TiO 2 margins to long-term historical averages should result in increased profitability and cash flow generation.

              We estimate that the global demand for iron oxide pigments was approximately 1.3 million metric tons per year for 2016. Approximately 45% of this demand was generated from Asia, with Europe representing approximately 23% of demand and North America representing approximately 21% of demand. The construction industry consumes approximately 45% of colored iron oxide pigments, where the products are used for the coloring of manufactured concrete products such as paving tiles and precast roof tiles as well as for coloring cast in place concrete such as ready-mix, stucco and mortar. Industrial and architectural coatings represent the second largest segment for iron oxides (approximately 30% of total demand), where these pigments bring color, opacity and fade resistance to a variety of solvent and water-borne coating systems. Growth in the demand for iron oxide pigments is therefore closely linked to demand in the construction and coatings industries.

              We sell more than 90% of our functional additives products into coatings and plastics end markets. The demand dynamics for functional additives are therefore similar to those of TiO 2 . Over the last five years, there has been strong growth in demand for functional additives in specific applications such as white BOPET films. Final applications of these films include flat panel displays for televisions, labels and medical diagnostic devices. The demand for ultramarine blue pigments is primarily driven by the plastics industry, with approximately two-thirds of all ultramarine pigments used as colorants in polymeric materials such as packaging, automotive components and consumer plastics.

Exchange Rate Movements

              Our earnings are subject to fluctuations due to exchange rate movements. Our revenues and expenses are denominated in various currencies, including the primary European currencies, which have recently been volatile, while our reporting currency is the U.S. dollar. Generally, a decline in the value of the euro relative to the U.S. dollar will reduce our reported profitability. A decline in the value of the British pound sterling or Malaysian ringgit relative to the U.S. dollar will increase our reported profitability.

82


Table of Contents

Results of Operations

              The following table sets forth our combined results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 and the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 (dollars in millions). These results include other Huntsman businesses that are not part of our Titanium Dioxide or Performance Additives segments and that will ultimately not be part of our continuing operations. See "Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Financial Information."

 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
  Percent
Change
Three
Months
Ended
March 31,
 
 
   
   
   
  Percent Change
Year Ended
December 31,
  Three
Months
Ended
March 31,
 
 
  Year Ended December 31,  
 
  2016 vs.
2015
  2015 vs.
2014
  2017 vs.
2016
 
 
  2016   2015   2014   2017   2016  

Revenues

  $ 2,309   $ 2,330   $ 1,729     (1 )%   35 % $ 569   $ 585     (3 )%

Cost of goods sold

    2,134     2,192     1,637     (3 )%   34 %   489     550     (11 )%

Operating expenses

    194     268     206     (28 )%   30 %   55     63     (13 )%

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    35     223     62     (84 )%   260 %   27     11     145 %

Operating loss

    (54 )   (353 )   (176 )   (85 )%   101 %   (2 )   (39 )   95 %

Interest expense, net

    (44 )   (30 )   (2 )   47 %   NM %   (12 )   (11 )   9 %

Other expense

    (1 )       (1 )   NM     100 %            

Loss before income taxes

    (99 )   (383 )   (179 )   (74 )%   114 %   (14 )   (50 )   72 %

Income tax benefit

    22     31     17     (29 )%   82 %   1     2     (50 )%

Net loss

    (77 )   (352 )   (162 )   (78 )%   117 %   (13 )   (48 )   73 %

Reconciliation of net loss to Adjusted EBITDA:

                                                 

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (10 )   (7 )   (2 )   43 %   250 %   (3 )   (2 )   50 %

Interest expense, net

    44     30     2     47 %   NM %   12     11     9 %

Income tax benefit

    (22 )   (31 )   (17 )   (29 )%   82 %   (1 )   (2 )   50 %

Depreciation and amortization

    120     107     93     12 %   15 %   30     24     25 %

Other adjustments:

                                                 

Acquisition and integration expenses

    11     44     45                     6        

Purchase accounting adjustments

            13                            

(Gain) loss on disposition of business/assets

    (22 )   2     (1 )                          

Certain legal settlements and related expenses

    2     3     3                     1        

Amortization of pension and postretirement actuarial losses

    11     11     11                 4     3        

Net plant incident costs

    1     4                     5     1        

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    35     223     62                 27     11        

Adjusted EBITDA(2)

  $ 93   $ 34   $ 47               $ 61   $ 5        

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities(1)

  $ 97   $ (63 ) $ (63 )   NM     (2 )% $ 22   $ (47 )   NM  

Net cash provided by (used in) investing activities(1)

    (118 )   (139 )   29     (15 )%   NM     (59 )   (37 )   (59 )%

Net cash used in financing activities(1)

    30     194     52     (85 )%   273 %   41     90     (54 )%

Capital expenditures

    (113 )   (211 )   (142 )   (46 )%   49 %   (20 )   (33 )   (39 )%

NM—Not meaningful

83


Table of Contents

(1)
As restated.

(2)
Our management uses Adjusted EBITDA to assess financial performance. Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) before interest, income tax, depreciation and amortization, net income attributable to noncontrolling interests and certain corporate and other items, as well as eliminating the following adjustments: (a) acquisition and integration expenses; (b) purchase accounting adjustments; (c) (gain) loss on disposition of businesses/assets; (d) certain legal settlements and related expenses; (e) amortization of pension and postretirement actuarial losses; (f) net plant incident costs and (g) restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs. We believe that net income (loss) is the performance measure calculated and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP that is most directly comparable to Adjusted EBITDA.

We believe Adjusted EBITDA is useful to investors in assessing our ongoing financial performance and provides improved comparability between periods through the exclusion of certain items that management believes are not indicative of our operational profitability and that may obscure underlying business results and trends. However, this measure should not be considered in isolation or viewed as a substitute for net income or other measures of performance determined in accordance with U.S. GAAP. Moreover, Adjusted EBITDA as used herein is not necessarily comparable to other similarly titled measures of other companies due to potential inconsistencies in the methods of calculation. Our management believes this measure is useful to compare general operating performance from period to period and to make certain related management decisions. Adjusted EBITDA is also used by securities analysts, lenders and others in their evaluation of different companies because it excludes certain items that can vary widely across different industries or among companies within the same industry. For example, interest expense can be highly dependent on a company's capital structure, debt levels and credit ratings. Therefore, the impact of interest expense on earnings can vary significantly among companies. In addition, the tax positions of companies can vary because of their differing abilities to take advantage of tax benefits and because of the tax policies of the various jurisdictions in which they operate. As a result, effective tax rates and tax expense can vary considerably among companies. Finally, companies employ productive assets of different ages and utilize different methods of acquiring and depreciating such assets. This can result in considerable variability in the relative costs of productive assets and the depreciation and amortization expense among companies.

Nevertheless, our management recognizes that there are limitations associated with the use of Adjusted EBITDA in the evaluation of us as compared to net income. Our management compensates for the limitations of using Adjusted EBITDA by using this measure to supplement U.S. GAAP results to provide a more complete understanding of the factors and trends affecting the business rather than U.S. GAAP results alone.

In addition to the limitations noted above, Adjusted EBITDA excludes items that may be recurring in nature and should not be disregarded in the evaluation of performance. However, we believe it is useful to exclude such items to provide a supplemental analysis of current results and trends compared to other periods because certain excluded items can vary significantly depending on specific underlying transactions or events, and the variability of such items may not relate specifically to ongoing operating results or trends and certain excluded items, while potentially recurring in future periods, may not be indicative of future results. For example, while EBITDA from discontinued operations is a recurring item, it is not indicative of ongoing operating results and trends or future results.

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

              For the three months ended March 31, 2017, net loss was $13 million on revenues of $569 million, compared with net loss of $48 million on revenues of $585 million for the same period of 2016. The decrease of $35 million in net loss was the result of the following items:

    Revenues for the three months ended March 31, 2017 decreased by $16 million, or 3%, as compared with 2016. The decrease was due to lower average volumes across all of our segments primarily as a result of the fire at our plant in Pori, Finland, offset by higher average selling prices in our Titanium Dioxide segment, related to improvements in business conditions. See "—Segment Analysis" below.

84


Table of Contents

    Our operating expenses for the three months ended March 31, 2017 decreased by $8 million, or 13%, as compared with 2016, primarily related to a $10 million decrease in other selling, general and administrative expenses as a result of cost savings from restructuring programs.

    Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 increased to $27 million from $11 million for the same period of 2016. For more information concerning restructuring activities, see note "5. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our condensed combined financial statements.

    Our income tax benefit for the three months ended March 31, 2017 decreased to $1 million from $2 million for the same period of 2016. Our tax benefit is significantly affected by the mix of income and losses in the tax jurisdictions in which we operate, as impacted by the presence of valuation allowances in certain tax jurisdictions. For further information concerning taxes, see note "8. Income Taxes" to our condensed combined financial statements.

Segment Analysis

Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

 
  Three Months
Ended
March 31,
   
 
 
  Percent
Change
Favorable
(Unfavorable)
 
 
  2017   2016  
 
  (in millions)
   
 

Revenues

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 385   $ 392     (2 )%

Performance Additives

    152     148     3 %

Other businesses

    32     45     (29 )%

Total

  $ 569   $ 585     (3 )%

Segment Adjusted EBITDA

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 48   $ (3 )   NM  

Performance Additives

    21     18     17 %

Other businesses

    (8 )   (10 )   20 %

Total

  $ 61   $ 5     NM %

 

 
  Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 vs. 2016  
 
  Average Selling
Price(1)
   
   
 
 
  Local
Currency
  Foreign
Currency
Translation
Impact
  Mix &
Other(2)
  Sales
Volumes(3)
 

Period-Over-Period (Decrease) Increase

                         

Titanium Dioxide

    12 %   (2 )%   (4 )%   (6 )%

Performance Additives

        (1 )%   9 %   (6 )%

NM—Not meaningful

(1)
Excludes revenues from tolling arrangements, by-products and raw materials.

(2)
Includes the impact from the Rockwood acquisition.

(3)
Excludes sales volumes of by-products and raw materials.

85


Table of Contents

Titanium Dioxide

              The decrease in revenues of $7 million, or 2%, in our Titanium Dioxide segment for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared to the same period of 2016 was due to a 6% decrease in sales volumes and 4% decrease due to product mix, collectively totalling $45 million, partially offset by a $38 million, or a 10%, increase in average selling prices. Sales volumes decreased as a result of the fire at our Pori, Finland manufacturing facility. Average selling prices increased primarily due to improved competitive conditions which enabled announced price increases to be effected.

              Segment Adjusted EBITDA increased by $51 million as a result of a $38 million increase in revenues due to higher average selling prices, $20 million of savings due to improvements in operational efficiencies in 2017, a $4 million decrease in cost of goods sold due to savings from restructuring initiatives, a $2 million decrease in selling, general and administrative expense due to savings from restructuring and a $2 million decrease in other operating expenses due to realized foreign exchange movements, partially offset by a $15 million reduction in Adjusted EBITDA due to the fire at our Pori, Finland plant.

Performance Additives

              The increase in revenues in our Performance Additives segment of $4 million, or 3%, for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared to the same period of 2016 was due to a net increase of $5 million, or 3%, due to changes in product mix and sales volume, and a $1 million, or 1%, decrease in average selling prices. The increase in Segment Adjusted EBITDA of $3 million was primarily due to improvement in product mix and restructuring savings.

Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2015

              For the year ended December 31, 2016, net loss was $77 million on revenues of $2,309 million, compared with net loss of $352 million on revenues of $2,330 million in 2015. The decrease of $275 million in net loss was the result of the following items:

    Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased by $21 million, or 1%, as compared with 2015. The decrease was due to lower average selling prices in all of our segments, partially offset by higher sales volumes in all of our segments. See "—Segment Analysis" below.

    Our operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased by $74 million, or 28%, as compared to 2015, primarily related to a $33 million decrease in acquisition expenses, $30 million decrease in other selling, general and administrative expenses as a result of cost savings from restructuring programs and a favorable $5 million foreign currency exchange impact of the strengthening U.S. dollar against other major international currencies.

    Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased to $35 million from $223 million in 2015. For more information concerning restructuring activities, see note "11. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our combined financial statements.

    Our interest expense, net for the year ended December 31, 2016 increased to $44 million from $30 million in 2015, partially due to an increase in interest expense of approximately $7 million from 2015 to 2016 as a result of higher average levels of notes payable to related parties during 2016 partially offset by a $7 million decrease in interest income for the year ended December 31, 2016 as compared with 2015 resulting from a significant decrease in notes receivable from affiliates during 2016 as compared to 2015.

86


Table of Contents

    Our income tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 2016 decreased to $22 million from $31 million in 2015. Our tax benefit is significantly affected by the mix of income and losses in the tax jurisdictions in which we operate, as impacted by the presence of valuation allowances in certain tax jurisdictions. For further information concerning taxes, see note "18. Income Taxes" to our combined financial statements.

Segment Analysis

Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2015

 
  Year Ended
December 31,
   
 
 
  Percent
Change
Favorable
(Unfavorable)
 
 
  2016   2015  
 
  (in millions)
   
 

Revenues

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 1,554   $ 1,583     (2 )%

Performance Additives

    585     577     1 %

Other businesses

    170     170      

Total

  $ 2,309   $ 2,330     (1 )%

Segment Adjusted EBITDA

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 61   $ (8 )   NM  

Performance Additives

    69     69      

Other businesses

    (37 )   (27 )   (37 )%

Total

  $ 93   $ 34     165 %

 

 
  Year Ended
December 31, 2016 vs. 2015
 
 
  Average Selling
Price(1)
   
   
 
 
  Local
Currency
  Foreign
Currency
Translation
Impact
  Mix &
Other(2)
  Sales
Volumes(3)
 

Period-Over-Period (Decrease) Increase

                         

Titanium Dioxide

    (6 )%   (1 )%   1 %   4 %

Performance Additives

        (1 )%   (2 )%   4 %

NM—Not meaningful

(1)
Excludes revenues from tolling arrangements, by-products and raw materials.

(2)
Includes the impact from the Rockwood acquisition.

(3)
Excludes sales volumes of by-products and raw materials.

Titanium Dioxide

              The decrease in revenues of $29 million, or 2%, in our Titanium Dioxide segment for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the same period of 2015 was due to a $105 million, or 7%, decrease in average selling prices, partially offset by a $76 million, or 4%, increase in sales volumes. Average selling prices decreased primarily as a result of competitive pressure and the foreign currency exchange impact of a stronger U.S. dollar primarily against the euro. Sales volumes increased primarily due to increased end-use demand.

87


Table of Contents

              Segment Adjusted EBITDA increased by approximately $69 million primarily due to the decrease in cost of sales of $68 million, a decrease in selling, general and administrative costs of $19 million, primarily as a result of restructuring savings and a decrease in other operating expenses of $11 million due to insurance proceeds received relating to the 2015 nitrogen tank explosion at our Uerdingen, Germany manufacturing facility, partially offset by a $29 million decrease in revenue. The change in cost of sales was primarily related to a $115 million decrease due to restructuring savings offset by a $47 million increase in cost of sales due to increased volumes.

Performance Additives

              The increase in revenues in our Performance Additives segment of $8 million, or 1%, for the year ended December 31, 2016 compared to the same period of 2015 was due to an increase of $12 million, or 2%, due to changes in sales volumes and product mix offset by a $4 million, or 1%, decrease in average selling prices. Segment Adjusted EBITDA remained unchanged as the benefit of higher sales volumes and restructuring savings were offset by lower average selling prices.

Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2014

              For the year ended December 31, 2015, net loss was $352 million on revenues of $2,330 million, compared with net loss of $162 million on revenues of $1,729 million for the same period in 2014. The increase of $190 million in net loss was the result of the following items:

    Revenues for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased by $601 million, or 35%, as compared with 2014. The increase was due principally to higher sales volumes due to the impact of the Rockwood acquisition, partially offset by lower average selling prices in both of our segments. See "—Segment Analysis" below.

    Our operating expenses for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased by $62 million, or 30%, as compared to 2014, primarily related to the inclusion of $65 million of operating expenses due to the Rockwood acquisition, offset by an unfavorable $3 million foreign currency exchange impact of the strengthening U.S. dollar against other major international currencies.

    Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased to $223 million from $62 million in 2014. For more information concerning restructuring activities, see note "11. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our combined financial statements.

    Interest expense, net for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased to $30 million from $2 million. The increase was primarily due to the increase in notes payable to related parties.

    Our income tax benefit for the year ended December 31, 2015 increased to $31 million from $17 million in 2014. Our tax benefit is significantly affected by the mix of income and losses in the tax jurisdictions in which we operate, as impacted by the presence of valuation allowances in certain tax jurisdictions. For further information concerning taxes, see note "18. Income Taxes" to our combined financial statements.

88


Table of Contents

Segment Analysis

Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2014

 
  Year Ended
December 31,
   
 
 
  Percent
Change
Favorable
(Unfavorable)
 
 
  2015   2014  
 
  (in millions)
   
 

Revenues

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 1,583   $ 1,411     12 %

Performance Additives

    577     138     318 %

Other businesses

    170     180     (6 )%

Total

  $ 2,330   $ 1,729     35 %

Segment Adjusted EBITDA

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ (8 ) $ 62     NM  

Performance Additives

    69     14     393 %

Other businesses

    (27 )   (29 )   7 %

Total

  $ 34   $ 47     (28 )%

 

 
  Year Ended
December 31, 2015 vs. 2014
 
 
  Average Selling
Price(1)
   
   
 
 
  Local
Currency
  Foreign
Currency
Translation
Impact
  Mix &
Other(2)
  Sales
Volumes(2),(3)
 

Period-Over-Period (Decrease) Increase

                         

Titanium Dioxide

    (7 )%   (12 )%   36 %   (5 )%

Performance Additives

    (10 )%   (4 )%   337 %   (5 )%

NM—Not meaningful

(1)
Excludes revenues from tolling arrangements, by-products and raw materials.

(2)
Includes the impact from the Rockwood acquisition.

(3)
Excludes sales volumes of by-products and raw materials.

      Titanium Dioxide

              The increase in revenues in our Titanium Dioxide segment for 2015 compared to 2014 was primarily due to the impact of the Rockwood acquisition which added $411 million to revenue and $373 million to cost of sales. Fixed costs increased by $27 million due to recognizing a full year of Rockwood costs. Other than the impact of the Rockwood acquisition, average selling prices decreased 19% primarily as a result of high TiO 2 industry inventory levels and the foreign currency exchange impact of a stronger U.S. dollar against major European currencies; these factors reduced revenues by $235 million. Sales volumes decreased 5% in 2015 primarily as a result of lower end-use demand. Other than the impact of the Rockwood acquisition, fixed costs decreased by $18 million primarily due to the foreign currency exchange impact of a stronger U.S. dollar against major European currencies and $4 million in cost synergies from restructuring initiatives. The impact of a nitrogen tank explosion owned and operated by a third party at our Uerdingen, Germany facility disrupted our manufacturing during the third quarter of 2015 and reduced Segment Adjusted EBITDA by approximately $6 million, the impact of which is included in the above figures. The decrease in Segment Adjusted EBITDA was

89


Table of Contents

primarily due to lower average selling prices, partially offset by the decrease in operating expenses resulting from restructuring savings, as discussed above, lower raw material and energy prices, and the Rockwood acquisition.

      Performance Additives

              The increase in revenues in our Performance Additives segment for 2015 compared to 2014 was primarily due to the impact of the Rockwood acquisition in October 2014, which added $413 million to revenue and $308 million to cost of sales. Fixed costs increased by $73 million due to recognizing a full year of Rockwood costs, partially offset by $6 million of cost synergies. The increase of $55 million in Segment Adjusted EBITDA was primarily attributable to the inclusion of a full year of business results due to the Rockwood acquisition.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

              Our primary sources of liquidity and capital resources have historically been cash flows from operations, our participation in a cash pooling program with Huntsman and debt incurred by Huntsman. Following the completion of this offering, we will not receive any capital contributions from Huntsman or funding through the Huntsman cash pooling program. We had cash and cash equivalents of $35 million and $30 million as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

              In connection with this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings and expect to incur up to $750 million of new debt, which will include (i) $375 million of senior notes and (ii) borrowings of $375 million under our term loan facility. We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. In addition, in connection with the closing of this offering, we intend to enter into a $300 million ABL facility available for our working capital needs and general corporate purposes. For more information about the senior notes offering and the senior credit facilities, see "—Financing Arrangements."

              We expect to have adequate liquidity to meet our obligations over the next 12 months. Additionally, we believe our future obligations, including needs for capital expenditures and acquisitions will be met by available cash generated from operations and borrowings under the ABL facility.

Items Impacting Short-Term and Long-Term Liquidity

              Our liquidity can be significantly impacted by various factors. The following matters had, or are expected to have, a significant impact on our liquidity:

    Cash from our accounts receivable and inventory, net of accounts payable, was approximately $158 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017, while cash from accounts receivable and inventory net of accounts payable was approximately $152 million for the year ended December 31, 2016, as reflected in our combined statements of cash flows. We expect volatility in our working capital components to continue after our separation from Huntsman due to seasonal changes in working capital throughout the year.

    During 2017, we expect to spend approximately $90 million on capital expenditures, net of reimbursements, approximately $20 million of which has been spent as of March 31, 2017. Our future expenditures include certain EHS maintenance and upgrades; periodic maintenance and repairs applicable to major units of manufacturing facilities; expansions of our existing facilities or construction of new facilities; certain cost reduction projects; and certain information technology expenditures. We expect to fund this spending with cash provided by operations.

90


Table of Contents

    During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and year ended December 31, 2016, we made contributions to our pension and postretirement benefit plans of $5 million and $26 million, respectively. During the remainder of 2017, we expect to contribute an additional amount of approximately $19 million to these plans. For further discussion, see note "19. Employee Benefit Plans," to our combined annual financial statements.

    We are also involved in a number of cost reduction programs for which we have established restructuring accruals. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had $35 million and $22 million, respectively, of accrued restructuring costs of which $31 million and $15 million, respectively, are classified as current. We expect to incur and pay additional restructuring and plant closing costs of approximately $17 million through the remainder of 2017. For further discussion of these plans and the costs involved, see note "5. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our condensed combined financial statements.

    Further, although the business improvement program is expected to be completed by the end of 2018, we expect to incur additional restructuring charges well beyond the end of 2018. We expect the business improvement program to provide additional contributions to Adjusted EBITDA beginning in 2017.

    On January 30, 2017, our TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland experienced fire damage and is currently not fully operational. We anticipate that some level of production will have resumed prior to completion of the separation and we estimate that the Pori facility will be fully operational around the end of 2018. The Pori facility has a nameplate capacity of up to 130,000 metric tons, which represents approximately 17% of our total TiO 2 nameplate capacity and approximately 2% of total global TiO 2 demand. The site is insured for property damage as well as business interruption losses. However, if we experience delays in construction or equipment procurement relative to the expected restart of the Pori facility, or we lose customers to alternative suppliers or our insurance proceeds do not timely cover our property damage and other losses, our business may be adversely impacted.

              As of both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had $10 million classified as current portion of debt.

              As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had approximately $31 million and $26 million, respectively, of cash and cash equivalents held by our foreign subsidiaries, including our variable interest entities. We intend to use cash held in our foreign subsidiaries to fund our local operations. Nevertheless, we could repatriate this cash or future operating cash from earnings as dividends to our U.S. enterprise. If foreign cash were repatriated as dividends, under current tax law, our existing tax attributes provide the ability to repatriate the cash without incurring incremental U.S. income tax. We anticipate that these attributes will be sufficient to allow for the repatriation of an amount of cash equivalent to at least our expected third-party debt at the time of this offering. Cash held by certain foreign subsidiaries, including our variable interest entities, may also be subject to legal restrictions, including those arising from the interests of our partners, which could limit the amounts available for repatriation.

Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 Compared to the Three Months Ended March 31, 2016

              Net cash provided by operating activities was $22 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 while net cash used in operating activities was $47 million for the three months ended March 31, 2016. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was primarily attributable to a decrease in net loss as described in "—Results of Operations" above in addition to a $32 million favorable variance in operating assets and liabilities for 2017 as compared with 2016.

91


Table of Contents

              Net cash used in investing activities was $59 million and $37 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The increase in net cash used in investing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was primarily attributable to an $87 million increase in advances to affiliates partially offset by a $54 million inflow of insurance proceeds related to the fire in our plant in Pori, Finland received during the three months ended March 31, 2017 as well as a $13 million decrease in capital expenditures for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016.

              Net cash provided by financing activities was $41 million and $90 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. The decrease in net cash provided by financing activities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 compared with the same period of 2016 was primarily attributable to a $48 million net repayment of borrowings on affiliate accounts payable.

Cash Flows for the Year Ended December 31, 2016 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2015

              Net cash provided by operating activities for 2016 was $97 million while net cash used in operating activities for 2015 was $63 million. The increase in net cash provided by operating activities during 2016 compared with 2015 was primarily attributable to a $275 million decrease in net loss offset by a $33 million unfavorable variance in operating assets and liabilities for 2016 as compared with 2015 and a $94 million unfavorable variance in noncash adjustments from 2015 to 2016 for impairment of assets.

              Net cash used in investing activities for 2016 and 2015 was $118 million and $139 million, respectively. During 2016 and 2015, we paid $113 million and $211 million, respectively, for capital expenditures. During 2016 and 2015, we made investments in Louisiana Pigment Company, L.P. ("LPC") of $29 million and $42 million, respectively, and we received dividends from LPC of $32 million and $48 million, respectively. Finally, we had an unfavorable variance in advances to affiliates of $83 million from 2015 to 2016.

              Net cash provided by financing activities for 2016 and 2015 was $30 million and $194 million, respectively. The decrease in net cash provided by financing activities was primarily due to a $158 million decrease in cash inflows related to net borrowings on affiliates accounts payable and a $6 million increase in dividends paid to noncontrolling interest.

Cash Flows for the Year Ended December 31, 2015 Compared to the Year Ended December 31, 2014

              Net cash used in operating activities for both 2015 and 2014 was $63 million. Net cash used in operating activities during 2015 compared with 2014 reflects a $52 million favorable variance in operating assets and liabilities for 2015 as compared with 2014, a $135 million favorable change due to noncash adjustments in 2015 for impairment of assets and noncash interest, offset by an increase in net loss as described in "—Results of Operations" above. See note "11. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our combined financial statements for further discussion of the impairment in 2015.

              Net cash used in investing activities for 2015 was $139 million compared to net cash provided by investing activities of $29 million in 2014. During 2015 and 2014, we paid $211 million and $142 million, respectively, for capital expenditures. During 2015 and 2014, we made investments in LPC of $42 million and $37 million, respectively, and we received dividends from LPC of $48 million in both periods. During 2014, we received $77 million in cash in connection with the Rockwood acquisition. We had a decrease of $17 million in net advances to affiliates.

              Net cash provided by financing activities for 2015 and 2014 was $194 million and $52 million, respectively. The increase in net cash provided by financing activities was primarily due to an increase in net borrowings from affiliate accounts payable offset by dividends paid to noncontrolling interests.

92


Table of Contents

Changes in Financial Condition

              The following information summarizes our working capital as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 (dollars in millions):

 
  March 31,
2017
  December 31,
2016
  Increase
(Decrease)
  Percent
Change
 

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 35   $ 30   $ 5     17 %

Accounts and notes receivable, net

    275     258     17     7 %

Accounts receivable from affiliates

    502     303     199     66 %

Inventories

    440     434     6     1 %

Prepaid expenses

    11     11          

Other current assets

    63     60     3     5 %

Total current assets

    1,326     1,096     230     21 %

Accounts payable

    295     303     (8 )   (3 )%

Accounts payable to affiliates

    783     705     78     11 %

Accrued liabilities

    188     156     32     21 %

Current portion of debt

    10     10          

Total current liabilities

    1,276     1,174     102     9 %

Working capital (deficit)

  $ 50   $ (78 ) $ 128     NM  

              Our working capital increased by $128 million as a result of the net impact of the following significant changes:

    Cash and cash equivalents increased by $5 million primarily due to inflows of $22 million from operating activities and $41 million from financing activities offset by outflows of $59 million used in investing activities.

    Accrued liabilities increased by $32 million primarily due to deferred income recorded in connection with the partial progress payment received from our insurer related to the fire at our Pori, Finland manufacturing facility.

    Accounts receivable from and accounts payable to affiliates represent financing arrangements with affiliates of Huntsman. For further information, see note "14. Related Party Financing—Cash Pooling Program" to our combined financial statements.

93


Table of Contents

              The following information summarizes our working capital as of December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015 (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,
2016
  December 31,
2015
  Increase
(Decrease)
  Percent
Change
 

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 30   $ 22   $ 8     36 %

Accounts and notes receivable, net

    258     260     (2 )   (1 )%

Accounts receivable from affiliates

    303     464     (161 )   (35 )%

Inventories

    434     571     (137 )   (24 )%

Prepaid expenses

    11     50     (39 )   (78 )%

Other current assets

    60     65     (5 )   (8 )%

Total current assets

    1,096     1,432     (336 )   (23 )%

Accounts payable

    303     317     (14 )   (4 )%

Accounts payable to affiliates

    705     623     82     13 %

Accrued liabilities

    156     259     (103 )   (40 )%

Current portion of debt

    10     9     1     11 %

Total current liabilities

    1,174     1,208     (34 )   (3 )%

Working capital

  $ (78 ) $ 224   $ (302 )   NM  

              Our working capital decreased by $302 million as a result of the net impact of the following significant changes:

    Cash and cash equivalents increased by $8 million primarily due to inflows of $97 million provided by operating activities and $30 million provided by financing activities offset by outflows of $118 million used in investing activities.

    Inventories decreased by $137 million mainly due to lower inventory volumes and lower raw material costs, primarily in the Titanium Dioxide segment.

    Prepaid expenses decreased by $39 million primarily due to the distribution of employee termination and other restructuring costs that were prefunded during the fourth quarter of 2015.

    Accounts payable decreased by $14 million primarily due to lower purchases consistent with the lower inventory balances noted above.

    Accrued liabilities decreased by $103 million primarily due to the distribution of prefunded restructuring costs.

    Accounts receivable from and accounts payable to affiliates represent financing arrangements with affiliates of Huntsman. For further information, see note "14. Related Party Financing—Cash Pooling Program" to our combined financial statements.

94


Table of Contents

Third-Party Debt Agreements

              We also have lease obligations accounted for as capital leases primarily related to manufacturing facilities which are included in other long-term debt. The scheduled maturities of our commitments under capital leases are as follows (dollars in millions):

Year ending December 31:
   
 

2017

  $ 7  

2018

    2  

2019

    2  

2020

    2  

Thereafter

    11  

Total minimum payments

    24  

Less: Amounts representing interest

    (4 )

Present value of minimum lease payments

    20  

Less: Current portion of capital leases

    (7 )

Long-term portion of capital leases

  $ 13  

              In addition to these capital leases, we intend to enter into the Financings described below under "—Financing Arrangements." We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. Prior to, or concurrently with, the closing of this offering, all of our outstanding debt with Huntsman will be repaid, capitalized or otherwise eliminated.

Financing Arrangements

              Following the closing of this offering, we expect to have the following indebtedness and other facilities:

    a senior secured term loan facility in an aggregate principal amount of $375 million;

    an asset-based revolving lending facility with a borrowing capacity of up to $300 million; and

    senior unsecured notes in an aggregate principal amount of $375 million.

Senior Facilities

General

              Our new senior credit facilities will provide for first lien senior secured financing of up to $675 million, consisting of:

    a term loan facility, in an aggregate principal amount of $375 million, with a maturity of seven years; and

    an asset-based revolving lending facility, in an aggregate principal amount of up to $300 million, with a maturity of five years.

              In addition, we may request one or more incremental term loan facilities in an aggregate amount (the "Incremental Term Loan Amount") equal to (a) sum of (1) $225 million and (2) the amount of voluntary prepayments of the term loan facility (including all debt buybacks with credit given to the principal amount of loans purchased) other than any such prepayments funded with the proceeds of long-term indebtedness, and (b) (i) in the case of any incremental term facility to be secured equally and ratably with the term loan facility, the amount that would result in a first lien net leverage ratio (to be defined in a manner to be agreed) equal to or less than 1.5 to 1.00 and (ii) in the case of any

95


Table of Contents

incremental term facility or incremental equivalent debt to be secured on a junior basis to the term loan facility, subordinated in right of payment to the term loan facility or unsecured, the amount that would result in a total net leverage ratio (to be defined in a manner to be agreed) equal to or less than 3.00 to 1.00. We may also request incremental commitments under the ABL facility in an aggregate amount up to $100 million. The availability of the incremental term loan facilities and incremental facilities under the ABL facility will be subject in each case to our ability to secure commitments to provide the incremental financing in the market and certain customary terms and conditions including the absence of events of default and the accuracy of representations and warranties in all material respects.

              The aggregate amount available for extensions of credit in each jurisdiction under the ABL facility is calculated according to a "borrowing base" formula based primarily on 85% of the value of our eligible accounts receivable and, to a lesser extent, the value of our eligible inventory and up to $15 million of the value of our unrestricted cash (in certain jurisdictions). As a result, the aggregate amount available for extensions of credit under the ABL facility at any time will be the lesser of $300 million and our borrowing base calculated according to the formula described above minus the aggregate amount of extensions of credit outstanding under the ABL facility at such time.

              Borrowings under the term loan facility, together with the net proceeds of the senior notes offering, will be used to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses.

Interest Rates and Fees

              Borrowings under the term loan facility will bear interest at a rate equal to, at our option, either (a) a LIBOR rate determined by reference to the costs of funds for Eurodollar deposits for the interest period relevant to such borrowing, adjusted for certain additional costs subject to an interest rate floor to be agreed or (b) a base rate determined by reference to the highest of (i) the rate of interest per annum determined from time to time by JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. as its prime rate in effect at its principal office in New York City, (ii) the federal funds rate plus 0.50% per annum and (iii) the one-month adjusted LIBOR plus 1.00% per annum, in each case plus an applicable margin to be agreed upon.

              Borrowings under the ABL facility will bear interest at a variable rate equal to an applicable margin based on the applicable quarterly average excess availability under the ABL facility plus either a LIBOR or a base rate. Thereafter, the applicable margin percentage will be calculated and established once every 3 calendar months and will vary from 150 to 200 basis points for LIBOR loans depending on the quarterly average excess availability under the ABL facility for the immediately preceding 3-month period.

Amortization and Prepayments

              The term loan facility will require scheduled quarterly amortization payments on the term loan in an amount equal to 0.25% of the original principal amount of the term loan, commencing on the first full fiscal quarter ending after the closing date of the term loan facility, with the balance paid at maturity.

              In addition, the term loan facility will require us to prepay outstanding term loan borrowings, subject to certain exceptions, with:

    50% of excess cash flow (to be defined in a manner to be agreed) (which percentage will be reduced to 25% and 0% if the total net leverage ratio is less than or equal to ratios to be agreed), subject to customary exceptions;

96


Table of Contents

    100% of the net cash proceeds of all non-ordinary course asset sales, other dispositions of property or certain casualty events, in each case subject to certain exceptions and reinvestment rights; and

    100% of the net cash proceeds of any issuance or incurrence of debt, other than proceeds from debt permitted under the term loan facility.

              We may voluntarily repay outstanding loans under the term loan facility at any time, without prepayment premium or penalty, except in connection with a repricing event in respect of the term loan as described below, subject to customary "breakage" costs with respect to LIBOR rate loans.

              Any refinancing of the term loan facility through the issuance of debt or a repricing amendment that results in a repricing event that lowers the existing yield at any time during the first six months after the closing date of the term loan facility will require payment of a 1.00% prepayment premium or fee, as applicable.

              The asset based lending facility requires mandatory prepayment in the event that outstanding borrowings under the facility exceed availability as calculated under the borrowing base and upon the occurrence and continuation of a cash dominion event.

Collateral and Guarantors

              Subject to customary exceptions, all obligations under the senior credit facilities will be unconditionally guaranteed, jointly and severally, on a senior secured basis by Venator and each existing and subsequently acquired or organized direct or indirect material wholly-owned restricted subsidiary of Venator. The obligations of the loan parties will be secured by a pledge of our capital stock directly held by Venator and any domestic loan parties and substantially all of our assets and those of each subsidiary guarantor, including capital stock of the subsidiary guarantors and 65% of the capital stock of the first-tier foreign subsidiaries that are not subsidiary guarantors, in each case subject to exceptions. Lien priority as between the term loan facility and the ABL facility with respect to the collateral will be governed by an intercreditor agreement.

Restrictive Covenants and Other Matters

              The senior credit facilities will contain certain customary affirmative covenants. The negative covenants in the senior credit facilities will include, among other things, limitations (none of which are absolute) on our ability to:

    incur additional debt or issue certain preferred shares;

    create liens on certain assets;

    make certain loans or investments (including acquisitions);

    pay dividends on or make distributions in respect of our capital stock or make other restricted payments;

    consolidate, merge, sell or otherwise dispose of all or substantially all of our assets;

    sell assets;

    enter into certain transactions with our affiliates;

    restrict dividends from our subsidiaries or restrict liens on assets of our subsidiaries; and

    modify the terms of certain debt or organizational agreements.

97


Table of Contents

              In addition, if excess availability under the ABL facility is less than a certain amount or less than a certain percentage of the aggregate available commitments under such facility, the ABL facility will require compliance with a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio.

              The senior credit facilities will contain certain customary events of default, including relating to a change of control. If an event of default occurs, the lenders under the senior credit facilities will be entitled to take various actions, including the acceleration of amounts due under the senior credit facilities and all actions permitted to be taken by a secured creditor in respect of the collateral securing the senior credit facilities.

Senior Notes

              The subsidiary issuers, which will be our wholly-owned subsidiaries as of the completion of this offering, announced on June 29, 2017 the pricing of $375 million in aggregate principal amount of senior notes in a private placement to qualified institutional buyers in reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act and outside the United States to certain non-U.S. persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The sale of the senior notes is expected to close on or about July 14, 2017, subject to customary conditions. The gross proceeds of the senior notes offering will be funded into a segregated escrow account for the benefit of the holders of the senior notes. The funds will be released from escrow upon the closing of this offering, and used, together with borrowings under the term loan facility, to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. Upon the closing of the senior notes offering, the senior notes will be guaranteed by the subsidiaries that guarantee our new senior credit facilities. Interest payments are due on the senior notes semi-annually in arrears on January 15 and July 15, commencing on January 15, 2018.

              The senior notes contain customary events of default for similar debt securities, which if triggered may accelerate payment of principal, premium, if any, and accrued but unpaid interest on the senior notes. Such events of default include but are not limited to non-payment of principal and interest, non-performance of covenants and obligations, default on other material debt, and bankruptcy or insolvency. If a change of control repurchase event occurs, the subsidiary issuers may be required to offer to purchase the senior notes from the holders thereof at 101% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest. Following the closing of the senior notes offering, the senior notes are not required to be repaid prior to maturity, although they may be redeemed in whole or in part at the option of the subsidiary issuers at any time prior to their maturity at the redemption prices specified in the indenture.

A/R Programs

              Certain of our entities participate in the A/R Programs sponsored by Huntsman International. Under the A/R Programs, these entities sell certain of their trade receivables to Huntsman International. Huntsman International grants an undivided interest in these receivables to bankruptcy remote special purpose entities ("SPE"), which serve as security for the issuance of debt of Huntsman International. These entities continue to service the securitized receivables. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Huntsman International had $167 million and $144 million, respectively, of net receivables in their A/R Programs and reflected on their balance sheet associated with Venator. The entities allocated losses on the A/R Programs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 were $1 million and $2 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Huntsman International had $144 million and $152 million, respectively, of net receivables in their A/R Programs and reflected on their balance sheet associated with us. The entities allocated losses on the A/R Programs for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were $5 million, $3 million and $5 million, respectively. The allocation of losses on sale of accounts receivable is based upon the pro-rata portion of total receivables sold into the securitization program as well as other program and

98


Table of Contents

interest expenses associated with the A/R Programs. On April 21, 2017, Huntsman International amended its accounts receivable securitization facilities, which among other things removed existing receivables sold into the program by the Pigments and Additives business. In addition, after April 21, 2017, receivables generated by the Pigments and Additives legal entities will no longer participate in the Huntsman A/R Program sponsored by Huntsman.

Contractual Obligations and Commercial Commitments

              Our obligations under long-term debt (including the current portion), lease agreements and other contractual commitments as of December 31, 2016 are summarized below (dollars in millions):

 
  2017   2018 - 2019   2020 - 2021   After 2021   Total  

Long-term debt, including current portion(1)

  $ 10   $ 3   $ 3   $ 7   $ 23  

Interest(2)

        1     1     2     4  

Operating leases

    8     10     4     2     24  

Purchase commitments(3)

    606     512     34     63     1,215  

Total(4)(5)

  $ 624   $ 526   $ 42   $ 74   $ 1,266  

(1)
Excludes long-term debt to affiliates, all of which will be repaid, capitalized or otherwise eliminated in connection with the separation and this offering. In connection with this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings and expect to incur up to $750 million of new debt, which will include (i) $375 million of senior notes and (ii) borrowings of $375 million under our term loan facility. In addition, we intend to enter into a $300 million ABL facility at closing of this offering. We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. For more information, See "—Financing Arrangements."

(2)
Interest calculated using interest rates as of December 31, 2016 and contractual maturity dates.

(3)
We have various purchase commitments extending through 2029 for materials, supplies and services entered into in the ordinary course of business. Included in the purchase commitments table above are contracts which require minimum volume purchases that extend beyond one year or are renewable annually and have been renewed for 2016. Certain contracts allow for changes in minimum required purchase volumes in the event of a temporary or permanent shutdown of a facility. To the extent the contract requires a minimum notice period, such notice period has been included in the above table. The contractual purchase price for substantially all of these contracts is variable based upon market prices, subject to annual negotiations. We have estimated our contractual obligations by using the terms of our current pricing for each contract. We also have a limited number of contracts which require a minimum payment even if no volume is purchased. We believe that all of our purchase obligations will be utilized in our normal operations. For each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we made minimum payments of $1 million, nil and nil, respectively, under such take or pay contracts without taking the product.

(4)
Totals do not include commitments pertaining to our pension and other postretirement obligations. Our estimated future contributions to our pension and postretirement plans are as follows (dollars in millions):
 
  2017   2018 - 2019   2020 - 2021   5-Year
Average
Annual
 

Pension plans

  $ 24   $ 52   $ 56   $ 31  

Other postretirement obligations

                 
(5)
The above table does not reflect expected tax payments and unrecognized tax benefits due to the inability to make reasonably reliable estimates of the timing and amount of payments. For additional discussion on unrecognized tax benefits, see note "18. Income Taxes" to our combined financial statements.

99


Table of Contents

Off-Balance-Sheet Arrangements

              No off-balance sheet arrangements exist at this time.

Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

              Following the Rockwood acquisition, we identified 21 business improvement projects in our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments. We commenced implementation of such projects in December 2014 and they collectively have produced significant cost savings and improved global competitiveness for our business. The benefits of these programs were measured at the individual project level while the cost performance of the business as a whole was measured against a benchmark period (fiscal year 2014). In total, the successful completion of these programs delivered more than $200 million of annual cost synergies to businesses that will be assumed by us in connection with the separation in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014, pro forma for the Rockwood acquisition. Approximately 85% of these cost savings were attributable to costs of goods sold and 15% were attributable to selling, general and administrative expenses.

              In addition, we are currently implementing a business improvement program, which is expected to provide additional contributions to Adjusted EBITDA beginning in 2017 and to be completed by the end of 2018. If successfully implemented, we expect our business improvement program to result in increased Adjusted EBITDA from general cost reductions, volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products) and further optimization of our manufacturing network including the closure of certain facilities.

              We have initiated various restructuring programs in an effort to reduce operating costs and maximize operating efficiency. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, accrued restructuring and plant closing costs by type of cost and initiative consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  Workforce
reductions(1)
  Other
restructuring
costs
  Total(2)  

Accrued liabilities as of January 1, 2017

  $ 22   $   $ 22  

2017 charges

    20     4     24  

2017 payments

    (6 )   (4 )   (10 )

Distribution of prefunded restructuring costs

    (1 )       (1 )

Accrued liabilities as of March 31, 2017

  $ 35   $   $ 35  

(1)
The total workforce reduction reserves of $35 million relate to the termination of 381 positions, of which 380 positions had not been terminated as of March 31, 2017.

(2)
Accrued liabilities remaining at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 by year of initiatives were as follows (dollars in millions):
 
  March 31,
2017
  December 31,
2016
 

2015 initiatives and prior

  $ 15   $ 22  

2016 initiatives

         

2017 initiatives

    20      

Total

  $ 35   $ 22  

100


Table of Contents

              Details with respect to our reserves for restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs are provided below by segment and initiative (dollars in millions):

 
  Titanium
Dioxide
  Performance
Additives
  Other
businesses
  Total  

Accrued liabilities as of January 1, 2017

  $ 12   $ 9   $ 1   $ 22  

2017 charges

    19     5         24  

Distribution of prefunded restructuring costs

    (1 )           (1 )

2017 payments

    (4 )   (6 )       (10 )

Accrued liabilities as of March 31, 2017

  $ 26   $ 8   $ 1   $ 35  

Current portion of restructuring reserves

  $ 22   $ 8   $ 1   $ 31  

Long-term portion of restructuring reserve

    4             4  

              Details with respect to cash and noncash restructuring charges for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 by initiative are provided below (dollars in millions):

 
  Three months ended
March, 31 2017
 

Cash charges:

       

2017 charges

  $ 24  

Other non-cash charges

    3  

Total 2017 Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

  $ 27  

 

 
  Three months ended
March 31, 2016
 

Cash charges:

       

2016 charges

  $  

Pension-related charges

    6  

Accelerated depreciation

    4  

Other non-cash charges

    1  

Total 2016 Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

  $ 11  

Restructuring Activities

              In December 2014, we implemented a comprehensive restructuring program to improve the global competitiveness of our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments. As part of the program, we are reducing our workforce by approximately 900 positions. In connection with this restructuring program, we recorded restructuring expense of $3 million in 2016. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $4 million through the end of 2017.

              In February 2015, we announced a plan to close the black end manufacturing operations and ancillary activities at our Calais, France site, which will reduce our TiO 2 capacity by approximately 100,000 metric tons, or 11% of our European TiO 2 capacity. In connection with this closure, we recorded restructuring expense of $1 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016.

              In March 2015, we implemented a restructuring program in our color pigments business. In connection with this restructuring, we recorded restructuring expenses of approximately $4 million and $3 million in the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $7 million through the end of 2017.

              In July 2016, we announced plans to close our Umbogintwini, South Africa TiO 2 manufacturing facility. As part of the program, we recorded restructuring expense of approximately $1 million for the

101


Table of Contents

three months ended March 31, 2017. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $4 million through the end of the third quarter of 2018.

              In March 2017, we announced a plan to close the white end finishing and packaging operation of our TiO 2 manufacturing facility at our Calais, France site. The announced plan follows the 2015 closure of the black end manufacturing operations and would result in the closure of the entire facility. In connection with this closure, we recorded restructuring expense of $22 million in the three months ended March 31, 2017. We recorded $4 million of accelerated depreciation on the remaining long-lived assets associated with this manufacturing facility during the three months ended March 31, 2016. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $41 million through the end of 2021.

              As part of our business improvement program, we recorded restructuring expense of approximately $23 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017.

              We expect that our open restructuring plans will improve earnings significantly as they are implemented through 2018 primarily as a result of lower operating costs due to workforce reductions resulting from plant closures. While our open restructuring plans are expected to result in net cash outflows in 2017, they are expected to result in net cash inflows in 2018 and 2019. If successfully implemented, we expect the general cost reductions and optimization of our manufacturing network to result in increases to our Adjusted EBITDA of approximately $60 million per year by the first quarter of 2019, with additional projected increases to Adjusted EBITDA from volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products). These net cash flow impacts are primarily attributable to plant closure and severance costs, which are more than offset by reduced cash operating costs.

              For further information on restructuring activities, see note "11. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our combined financial statements.

Legal Proceedings

Antitrust Matters

              We were named as a defendant in consolidated class action civil antitrust suits filed on February 9 and 12, 2010 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland alleging that we, our co-defendants and other alleged co-conspirators conspired to fix prices of TiO 2 sold in the U.S. between at least March 1, 2002 and the present. The other defendants named in this matter were E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company ("DuPont"), Kronos and National Titanium Dioxide Company, Ltd. ("Cristal") (formerly Millennium). On August 28, 2012, the court certified a class consisting of all U.S. customers who purchased TiO 2 directly from the defendants (the "Direct Purchasers") since February 1, 2003. On December 13, 2013, we and all other defendants settled the Direct Purchasers litigation and the court approved the settlement. We paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our combined financial statements.

              On November 22, 2013, we were named as a defendant in a civil antitrust suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota brought by a Direct Purchaser who opted out of the Direct Purchasers class litigation (the "Opt-Out Litigation"). On April 21, 2014, the court severed the claims against us from the other defendants sued and ordered our case transferred to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Subsequently, Kronos, another defendant, was also severed from the Minnesota case and claims against it were transferred and consolidated for trial with our case in the Southern District of Texas. On February 26, 2016, we reached an agreement to settle the Opt-Out Litigation and subsequently paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our combined financial statements.

              We were also named as a defendant in a class action civil antitrust suit filed on March 15, 2013 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by the purchasers of products made from TiO 2 (the "Indirect Purchasers") making essentially the same allegations as did the Direct

102


Table of Contents

Purchasers. On October 14, 2014, plaintiffs filed their Second Amended Class Action Complaint narrowing the class of plaintiffs to those merchants and consumers of architectural coatings containing TiO 2 . On August 11, 2015, the court granted our motion to dismiss the Indirect Purchasers litigation with leave to amend the complaint. A Third Amended Class Action Complaint was filed on September 29, 2015 further limiting the class to consumers of architectural paints. Plaintiffs have raised state antitrust claims under the laws of 15 states, consumer protection claims under the laws of nine states, and unjust enrichment claims under the laws of 16 states. On November 4, 2015, we and our co-defendants filed another motion to dismiss. On June 13, 2016, the court substantially denied the motion to dismiss except as to consumer protection claims in one state. The parties are negotiating a resolution to this action.

              On August 23, 2016, we were named as a defendant in a fourth civil antitrust suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by an indirect purchaser of TiO 2 , Home Depot. Home Depot is an Indirect Purchaser of TiO 2 primarily through paints it purchases from various manufacturers. We settled this matter and the court dismissed the case on May 31, 2017 for an amount immaterial to our financial statements.

              These Indirect Purchasers seek to recover injunctive relief, treble damages or the maximum damages allowed by state law, costs of suit and attorneys' fees. We are not aware of any illegal conduct by us or any of our employees.

Other Proceedings

              We are a party to various other proceedings instituted by private plaintiffs, governmental authorities and others arising under provisions of applicable laws, including various environmental, products liability and other laws. Except as otherwise disclosed in our combined financial statements, we do not believe that the outcome of any of these matters will have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

Environmental, Health and Safety Matters

              As noted in "Business—Environmental, Health and Safety Matters" and "Risk Factors," we are subject to extensive environmental regulations, which may impose significant additional costs on our operations in the future. While we do not expect any of these enactments or proposals to have a material adverse effect on us in the near term, we cannot predict the longer-term effect of any of these regulations or proposals on our future financial condition.

Environmental, Health and Safety Capital Expenditures

              We may incur future costs for capital improvements and general compliance under EHS laws, including costs to acquire, maintain and repair pollution control equipment. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 16, our capital expenditures for EHS matters totaled $3 million and $5 million, respectively. Because capital expenditures for these matters are subject to evolving regulatory requirements and depend, in part, on the timing, promulgation and enforcement of specific requirements, our capital expenditures for EHS matters have varied significantly from year to year and we cannot provide assurance that our recent expenditures are indicative of future amounts we may spend related to EHS and other applicable laws.

Environmental Reserves

              We accrue liabilities relating to anticipated environmental cleanup obligations, site reclamation and closure costs, and known penalties. Liabilities are recorded when potential liabilities are either known or considered probable and can be reasonably estimated. Our liability estimates are calculated using present value techniques as appropriate and are based upon requirements placed upon us by

103


Table of Contents

regulators, available facts, existing technology, and past experience. The environmental liabilities do not include amounts recorded as asset retirement obligations. As of both March 31, 2017 and 2016, we had environmental reserves of $12 million. We may incur losses for environmental remediation.

Environmental Matters

              We have incurred, and we may in the future incur, liability to investigate and clean up waste or contamination at our current or former facilities or facilities operated by third parties at which we may have disposed of waste or other materials. Similarly, we may incur costs for the cleanup of waste that was disposed of prior to the purchase of our businesses. Under some circumstances, the scope of our liability may extend to damages to natural resources.

              Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ("CERCLA") and similar state laws, a current or former owner or operator of real property in the U.S. may be liable for remediation costs regardless of whether the release or disposal of hazardous substances was in compliance with law at the time it occurred, and a current owner or operator may be liable regardless of whether it owned or operated the facility at the time of the release. Outside the U.S., analogous contaminated property laws, such as those in effect in France, can hold past owners and/or operators liable for remediation at former facilities. We have not been notified by third parties of claims against us for cleanup liabilities at former facilities or third-party sites, including, but not limited to, sites listed under CERCLA.

              Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act ("RCRA") in the U.S. and similar state laws, we may be required to remediate contamination originating from our properties as a condition to our hazardous waste permit. Some of our manufacturing sites have an extended history of industrial chemical manufacturing and use, including on-site waste disposal. We are aware of soil, groundwater or surface contamination from past operations at some of our sites, and we may find contamination at other sites in the future. Similar laws exist in a number of locations in which we currently operate, or previously operated, manufacturing facilities, such as France and Italy.

Recently Issued Accounting Pronouncements

              In May 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) , outlining a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenues arising from contracts with customers and this guidance supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date , deferring the effective date of ASU No. 2014-09 for all entities by one year. Further, in March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) , clarifying the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations, in April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing , clarifying the implementation guidance on identifying performance obligations in a contract and determining whether an entity's promise to grant a license provides a customer with either a right to use the entity's intellectual property (which is satisfied at a point in time) or a right to access the entity's intellectual property (which is satisfied over time), in May 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-12, Revenue from Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients , providing clarifications and practical expedients for certain narrow aspects in Topic 606, and in December 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . The amendments in these ASUs are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. The amendments in ASU No. 2014-09, ASU No. 2016-08, ASU No. 2016-10, ASU No. 2016-12 and ASU No. 2016-20 should be applied retrospectively, and early application is permitted. We are

104


Table of Contents

currently performing the analysis identifying areas that will be impacted by the adoption of the amendments in ASU No. 2014-09, ASU No. 2016-08, ASU No. 2016-10, ASU No. 2016-12 and ASU No. 2016-20 on our combined financial statements. The standard will be adopted in our fiscal year 2018 and we have elected the modified retrospective approach as the transition method.

              In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory . The amendments in this ASU do not apply to inventory that is measured using last-in first-out ("LIFO") or the retail inventory method, but rather does apply to all other inventory, which includes inventory that is measured using first-in first-out or average cost. An entity should measure in scope inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Subsequent measurement is unchanged for inventory measured using LIFO or the retail inventory method. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) . The amendments in this ASU will increase transparency and comparability among entities by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this ASU will require lessees to recognize in the statement of financial position a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early application of the amendments in this ASU is permitted for all entities. Reporting entities are required to recognize and measure leases under these amendments at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of the amendments in this ASU on our combined financial statements and believe, based on our preliminary assessment, that we will record significant additional right-to-use assets and lease obligations.

              In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments . The amendments in this ASU clarify and include specific guidance to address diversity in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The amendments in this ASU should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory . The amendments in this ASU require entities to recognize the current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs, as opposed to deferring the recognition of the income tax consequences until the asset has been sold to an outside party. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2017, including interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted for all entities as of the beginning of an annual reporting period for which financial statements (interim or annual) have not been issued or made available for issuance. The amendments in this ASU should be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

105


Table of Contents

              In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash . The amendments in this ASU require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim period within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The amendments in this ASU should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business . The amendments in this ASU clarify the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions or disposals of assets or businesses. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early application is permitted. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively on or after the effective date. No disclosures are required at transition. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-07, Compensation—Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost . The amendments in this ASU require that an employer report the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the same line items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The other components of net benefit cost are required to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside of income from operations. The amendments in this ASU also allow only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization when applicable (for example, as a cost of internally manufactured inventory or a self-constructed asset). The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments in this ASU should be applied retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the income statement and prospectively, on and after the effective date, for the capitalization of the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in assets. The amendments in this ASU will impact the presentation of our condensed combined financial statements. Our current presentation of service cost components is consistent with the amendments in this ASU. Upon adoption of the amendments in this ASU, we expect to present the other components within other non-operating income, whereas we currently present these within cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative expenses.

Critical Accounting Policies

              The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts in our combined financial statements. Our significant accounting policies are summarized in note "1. Description of Business, Recent Developments, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant

106


Table of Contents

Accounting Policies" to our unaudited condensed combined financial statements. Summarized below are our critical accounting policies:

Employee Benefit Programs

              We sponsor several contributory and non-contributory defined benefit plans, covering employees primarily in the U.S., the U.K., Germany and Finland, but also covering employees in a number of other countries. We fund the material plans through trust arrangements (or local equivalents) where the assets are held separately from us. We also sponsor unfunded postretirement plans which provide medical and, in some cases, life insurance benefits covering certain employees in the U.S., Canada and South Africa. Amounts recorded in our combined financial statements are recorded based upon actuarial valuations performed by various third-party actuaries. Inherent in these valuations are numerous assumptions regarding expected long-term rates of return on plan assets, discount rates, compensation increases, mortality rates and health care cost trends. These assumptions are described in note "19. Employee Benefit Plans" to our combined financial statements.

              Management, with the advice of actuaries, uses judgment to make assumptions on which our employee pension and postretirement benefit plan obligations and expenses are based. The effect of a 1% change in three key assumptions is summarized as follows (dollars in millions):

Assumptions
  Statement of
Operations(1)
  Balance Sheet
Impact(2)
 

Discount rate

             

—1% increase

  $ (6 ) $ (173 )

—1% decrease

    10     208  

Expected long-term rates of return on plan assets

             

—1% increase

    (11 )    

—1% decrease

    11      

Rate of compensation increase

             

—1% increase

    2     20  

—1% decrease

    (2 )   (18 )

(1)
Estimated (decrease) increase on 2016 net periodic benefit cost

(2)
Estimated (decrease) increase on December 31, 2016 pension and postretirement liabilities and accumulated other comprehensive loss

Income Taxes

              We use the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting purposes. We evaluate deferred tax assets to determine whether it is more likely than not that they will be realized. Valuation allowances are reviewed on a tax jurisdiction basis to analyze whether there is sufficient positive or negative evidence to support a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax assets for each jurisdiction. These conclusions require significant judgment. In evaluating the objective evidence that historical results provide, we consider the cyclicality of businesses and cumulative income or losses during the applicable period. Cumulative losses incurred over the period limit our ability to consider other subjective evidence such as our projections for the future. Changes in expected future income in applicable jurisdictions could affect the realization of deferred tax assets in those jurisdictions. As of December 31, 2016, we had total valuation allowances of $247 million. See note "18. Income Taxes" to our combined financial statements for more information regarding our valuation allowances.

107


Table of Contents

              As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no unremitted earnings of subsidiaries to consider for indefinite reinvestment. Going forward, to the extent future U.S. cash flow needs require distributions from foreign subsidiaries, based on existing law, we expect to have tax attributes (at least up to the amount of our anticipated external debt) that could allow repatriation of earnings to the U.S. without incremental U.S. income tax.

              Accounting for uncertainty in income taxes prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The application of income tax law is inherently complex. We are required to determine if an income tax position meets the criteria of more-likely-than-not to be realized based on the merits of the position under tax law, in order to recognize an income tax benefit. This requires us to make significant judgments regarding the merits of income tax positions and the application of income tax law. Additionally, if a tax position meets the recognition criteria of more-likely-than-not we are required to make judgments and apply assumptions in order to measure the amount of the tax benefits to recognize. These judgments are based on the probability of the amount of tax benefits that would be realized if the tax position was challenged by the taxing authorities. Interpretations and guidance surrounding income tax laws and regulations change over time. As a consequence, changes in assumptions and judgments can materially affect amounts recognized in our combined financial statements.

Long-Lived Assets

              The useful lives of our property, plant and equipment are estimated based upon our historical experience, engineering estimates and industry information and are reviewed when economic events indicate that we may not be able to recover the carrying value of the assets. The estimated lives of our property range from 3 to 50 years and depreciation is recorded on the straight-line method. Inherent in our estimates of useful lives is the assumption that periodic maintenance and an appropriate level of annual capital expenditures will be performed. Without on-going capital improvements and maintenance, the productivity and cost efficiency declines and the useful lives of our assets would be shorter.

              Management uses judgment to estimate the useful lives of our long-lived assets. At March 31, 2017, if the estimated useful lives of our property, plant and equipment had either been one year greater or one year less than their recorded lives, then depreciation expense for 2017 would have been approximately $9 million less or $10 million greater, respectively.

              We are required to evaluate the carrying value of our long-lived tangible and intangible assets whenever events indicate that such carrying value may not be recoverable in the future or when management's plans change regarding those assets, such as idling or closing a plant. We evaluate impairment by comparing undiscounted cash flows of the related asset groups that are largely independent of the cash flows of other asset groups to their carrying values. Key assumptions in determining the future cash flows include the useful life, technology, competitive pressures, raw material pricing and regulations. In connection with our asset evaluation policy, we reviewed all of our long-lived assets for indicators that the carrying value may not be recoverable. During 2016, we recorded an impairment charge of $1 million related to the impairment of our South African asset group. See note "11. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our combined financial statements.

Restructuring and Plant Closing Costs

              We have recorded restructuring charges in recent periods in connection with closing certain plant locations, workforce reductions and other cost savings programs in each of our business segments. These charges are recorded when management has committed to a plan and incurred a liability related

108


Table of Contents

to the plan. Estimates for plant closing costs include the write-off of the carrying value of the plant, any necessary environmental and/or regulatory costs, contract termination and demolition costs. Estimates for workforce reductions and other costs savings are recorded based upon estimates of the number of positions to be terminated, termination benefits to be provided and other information, as necessary. Management evaluates the estimates on a quarterly basis and will adjust the reserve when information indicates that the estimate is above or below the currently recorded estimate. For further discussion of our restructuring activities, see note "5. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs" to our condensed combined financial statements.

Contingent Loss Accruals

              Environmental remediation costs for our facilities are accrued when it is probable that a liability has been incurred and the amount can be reasonably estimated. Estimates of environmental reserves require evaluating government regulation, available technology, site-specific information and remediation alternatives. We accrue an amount equal to our best estimate of the costs to remediate based upon the available information. The extent of environmental impacts may not be fully known and the processes and costs of remediation may change as new information is obtained or technology for remediation is improved. Our process for estimating the expected cost for remediation considers the information available, technology that can be utilized and estimates of the extent of environmental damage. Adjustments to our estimates are made periodically based upon additional information received as remediation progresses. As of March 31, 2017, we had recognized a liability of $12 million related to these environmental matters. For further information, see note "22. Environmental, Health and Safety Matters" to our combined financial statements.

              We are subject to legal proceedings and claims arising out of our business operations. We routinely assess the likelihood of any adverse outcomes to these matters, as well as ranges of probable losses. A determination of the amount of the reserves required, if any, for these contingencies is made after analysis of each known claim. We have an active risk management program consisting of numerous insurance policies secured from many carriers. These policies often provide coverage that is intended to minimize the financial impact, if any, of the legal proceedings. The required reserves may change in the future due to new developments in each matter. For further information, see note "21. Commitments and Contingencies—Legal Proceedings" to our combined financial statements.

Variable Interest Entities—Primary Beneficiary

              We evaluate each of our variable interest entities on an on-going basis to determine whether we are the primary beneficiary. Management assesses, on an on-going basis, the nature of our relationship to the variable interest entity, including the amount of control that we exercise over the entity as well as the amount of risk that we bear and rewards we receive in regards to the entity, to determine if we are the primary beneficiary of that variable interest entity. Management judgment is required to assess whether these attributes are significant. The factors management considers when determining if we have the power to direct the activities that most significantly impact each of our variable interest entity's economic performance include supply arrangements, manufacturing arrangements, marketing arrangements and sales arrangements. We consolidate all variable interest entities for which we have concluded that we are the primary beneficiary. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 and the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the percentage of revenues from our consolidated variable interest entities in relation to total revenues that will ultimately be attributable to Venator is approximately 6.3%, 5.4%, 5.4%, 4.6% and 1.5%, respectively. For further information, see note "7. Variable Interest Entities" to our combined financial statements.

109


Table of Contents

Qualitative and Quantitative Disclosures about Market Risk

              Venator is exposed to market risks associated with foreign exchange risks. From time to time, Venator, through Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, will enter into hedging or derivative transactions to mitigate these exposures.

Interest Rate Risk

              In connection with the separation and this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings. Through our borrowing activities, we expect to be exposed to interest rate risk. Such risk will arise due to the anticipated structure of our debt portfolio, including the mix of fixed and floating interest rates. Actions we may take to reduce interest rate risk include managing the mix and rate characteristics of various interest bearing liabilities, as well as entering into interest rate derivative instruments.

              From time to time, we may purchase interest rate swaps and/or other derivative instruments to reduce the impact of changes in interest rates on our floating-rate long-term debt. Under interest rate swaps, we agree with other parties to exchange, at specified intervals, the difference between fixed-rate and floating-rate interest amounts calculated by reference to an agreed notional principal amount.

Foreign Exchange Rate Risk

              Venator's cash flows and earnings are subject to fluctuations due to exchange rate variation. Venator's revenues and expenses are denominated in various foreign currencies. From time to time, Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, on behalf of Venator, may enter into foreign currency derivative instruments to minimize the short term impact of movements in foreign currency rates. Where practicable, Venator generally nets multicurrency cash balances among its subsidiaries to help reduce exposure to foreign currency exchange rates. Certain other exposures may be managed from time to time through financial market transactions, principally through the purchase of spot or forward foreign exchange contracts (generally with maturities of three months or less). Venator does not hedge its foreign currency exposures in a manner that would eliminate the effect of changes in exchange rates on its cash flows and earnings. As of both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, on behalf of Venator, had approximately $63 million and $88 million in notional amount (in U.S. dollar equivalents) outstanding, respectively, in forward foreign currency contracts with a term of approximately one month.

Internal Control over Financial Reporting

              We identified a material weakness over our financial reporting as of March 31, 2017. As defined in Regulation 12b-2 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, a "material weakness" is a deficiency, or combination of deficiencies, in internal control over financial reporting, such that there is a reasonable possibility that a material misstatement of our company's annual or interim financial statements will not be prevented, or detected on a timely basis. Specifically, we determined that there is a deficiency in the design of our internal controls surrounding the review of the statements of cash flows for carve out financial statements. This material weakness led to a material misstatement in our combined statements of cash flows for the three years ended December 31, 2016 and in our condensed combined statements of cash flows for the three months periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016.

              As described further in footnote 25 to our combined financial statements and footnote 13 to our condensed combined financial statements, the misstatements related to the presentation of cash flows associated with the cash pooling programs in which we participate with certain subsidiaries of Huntsman International. These transactions were improperly classified between cash flows from operating activities and cash flows from either investing or financing activities.

110


Table of Contents

Remediation Plans

              We have initiated various programs to mitigate this material weakness in future periods and are in the process of supplementing our existing internal controls related to carve-out cash flow reporting, including hiring of additional accounting personnel and providing training specific to cash flow reporting to our existing accounting personnel. In periods subsequent to the business separation we will no longer participate in a cash pooling program with affiliates outside of the Venator legal entities and no related cash flow transactions will exist in subsequent periods.

              Although we plan to complete the above remediation process and integrate incremental internal controls into our 2017 testing plan, the implementation of these initiatives may not fully address any material weakness or other deficiencies that we may have in our internal control over financial reporting. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We have identified a material weakness in our internal control over financial reporting, which resulted in the restatement of our financial statements." If remediation of this material weakness is not effective, or if we fail to maintain an effective system of internal control over financial reporting in the future, we may not be able to accurately or timely report our financial condition or operating results, which may adversely affect investor confidence in our company.

111


Table of Contents


BUSINESS

Overview

              We are a leading global manufacturer and marketer of chemical products that improve the quality of life for downstream consumers and promote a sustainable future. Our products comprise a broad range of pigments and additives that bring color and vibrancy to buildings, protect and extend product life, and reduce energy consumption. We market our products globally to a diversified group of industrial customers through two segments: Titanium Dioxide, which consists of our TiO 2 business, and Performance Additives, which consists of our functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment businesses. We are a leading global producer in many of our key product lines, including TiO 2 , color pigments and functional additives, a leading North American producer of timber treatment products and a leading European producer of water treatment products. We operate 27 facilities, employ approximately 4,500 associates worldwide and sell our products in more than 110 countries.

              We operate in a variety of end markets, including industrial and architectural coatings, construction materials, plastics, paper, printing inks, pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, fibers and films and personal care. Within these end markets, our products serve approximately 6,900 customers globally. Our production capabilities allow us to manufacture a broad range of functional TiO 2 products as well as specialty TiO 2 products that provide critical performance for our customers and sell at a premium for certain end-use applications. Our color pigments, functional additives and timber treatment products provide essential properties for our customers' end-use applications by enhancing the color and appearance of construction materials and delivering performance benefits in other applications such as corrosion and fade resistance, water repellence and flame suppression. We believe that our global footprint and broad product offerings differentiate us from our competitors and allow us to better meet our customers' needs.

              For the twelve months ended March 31, 2017, we had total pro forma revenues of $2,136 million. Adjusted EBITDA for the twelve months ended March 31, 2017 was $112 million for our Titanium Dioxide segment and $72 million for our Performance Additives segment.

              Our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments have been transformed in recent years and we have established ourselves as a market leader in each of the industries in which we operate. We invested $1.3 billion in our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments from January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2017 on acquisitions, restructuring and integration. We are currently implementing our business improvement program within our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to provide additional contributions to Adjusted EBITDA beginning in 2017 and to be completed by the end of 2018. If successfully implemented, we expect these plans to result in increased Adjusted EBITDA from general cost reductions, volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products) and further optimization of our manufacturing network including the closure of certain facilities. As a result of these efforts, we believe we are well-positioned to capitalize on a continued market recovery and related growth opportunities.

112


Table of Contents

              The table below summarizes the key products, end markets and applications, representative customers, revenues and sales information by segment:

GRAPHIC

              For additional information about our business segments, including related financial information, see note "24. Operating Segment Information" to our combined financial statements and note "12. Operating Segment Information" to our unaudited condensed combined financial statements, and "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations."

113


Table of Contents

Our Competitive Strengths

              We are committed to continued value creation for our customers and shareholders by focusing on our competitive strengths, including the following:

    Well-Positioned to Capitalize on TiO 2 Market Recovery and Growth Opportunities.   We believe that our Titanium Dioxide segment is well-positioned to take advantage of an improvement in the TiO 2 industry cycle. TZMI estimates that global TiO 2 demand grew by approximately 8% in 2016 while production capacity grew by approximately 1%. We expect this growth in demand to create an environment favorable for TiO 2 price increases. We realized approximately $300 per metric ton improvement in pricing over the course of 2016. TZMI estimates that the market price of global high quality TiO 2 will grow by more than $600 per metric ton, the equivalent of more than 24%, from December 31, 2016 through the end of 2017. We have announced price increases for each of the first three quarters of 2017: $160 per metric ton in the first quarter, $250 per metric ton in the second quarter and an additional $250 per metric ton in the third quarter. With approximately 782,000 metric tons of annual nameplate production capacity, we believe that we are well-positioned to capitalize on recovering TiO 2 demand and prices. According to TZMI, most North American and European plants are currently running at full operating rates with long delivery lead times. If prices continue to increase in and beyond 2017, and as capacity utilization increases globally, TiO 2 margins are expected to increase. Additionally, with specialty and differentiated products accounting for approximately half of our 2016 TiO 2 sales, we believe we can benefit from our attractive market positioning throughout the cycle.

    Successful Implementation of Business Transformations.   We have a strong track record of successfully implementing business transformations and have been optimizing our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments for the past several years. We invested $1.3 billion from January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2017 on acquisitions, restructuring and integration. With these projects, we have positioned ourselves to take advantage of increased demand and product prices during the industry's recovery cycle. Specifically, our Rockwood acquisition and subsequent integration and restructuring provided us the ability to (i) target more specialty and differentiated end markets that yield higher and more stable margins and (ii) deliver more than $200 million of annual cost synergies in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014 pro forma for the acquisition of Rockwood. We believe our investment in restructuring and acquisitions has materially improved our competitive position and operational profile relative to our competitors, which has positioned us to capitalize on growth opportunities. We are currently implementing our business improvement program within our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to be completed by the end of 2018. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—If we are unable to successfully implement our cost reduction program and related strategic initiatives, we may not realize the benefits we anticipate from such programs or may incur additional and/or unexpected costs in order to realize them."

    Global Producer with Leading Market Positions.   We are a leading global producer in many of our key product lines. We are one of the six major producers of TiO 2 , and we are among the three largest TiO 2 producers, with nameplate production capacity of approximately 782,000 metric tons per year, accounting for approximately 11% of global TiO 2 production capacity. We believe we are the leader in the specialty TiO 2 industry segment, which includes products that sell at a premium and have more stable margins. We believe we are the TiO 2 market leader in the fibers and films, cosmetics and food end markets, and are at the forefront of innovation in these applications, with an exciting pipeline of new products and developments that we believe will further enhance our competitive position. We have a leading position in differentiated markets, including performance plastics and printing inks, as well as in a

114


Table of Contents

      variety of niche market segments where innovation and specialization are high. We believe the differentiation of our products allows us to generate greater growth prospects and stronger customer relationships.

      We believe we are the leading global manufacturer of zinc and barium functional additives, including the only producer of zinc sulfide and the largest global supplier of synthetic barium sulfate, with nameplate capacity to produce 100,000 metric tons of functional additives per year. We are a leading global producer of colored inorganic pigments for the construction materials, coating, plastics and specialty markets. We are one of three global leaders in the manufacture and processing of liquid, powder and granulated forms of iron oxide color pigments, producing approximately 95,000 metric tons per year. We also sell natural and synthetic inorganic pigments and metal carboxylate driers, and are the world's second largest manufacturer of technical grade ultramarine blue pigments.

    High Degree of Diversification Across End Markets, Geographies and Customers.   We operate a highly diversified, global business serving a variety of end markets, which provides us with the balance to help withstand weakness in any particular market segment. We have total nameplate production capacity of approximately 1.3 million metric tons per year through 27 manufacturing facilities operating in 10 countries around the world, which allows us to service the needs of both local and global customers. We have exposure to more than 10 end markets, including architectural coatings, industrial coatings, construction materials, plastics, paper, printing inks, fibers and films, pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, wood protection and water purification.

    While our customers include some of the most recognizable names in their respective industries, during the year ended December 31, 2016, no single customer accounted for more than 10% of our Titanium Dioxide segment revenues or more than 10% of our Performance Additives segment revenues. We have exposure to both emerging and mature markets, and we believe our geographic mix positions us to take advantage of significant growth opportunities.

    Broad Manufacturing Network Enhances Relationships with Global Customers.   We maintain a global manufacturing and distribution network that enables us to serve customers worldwide in a timely and efficient manner. Our Titanium Dioxide segment operates eight TiO 2 manufacturing facilities in Europe, North America and Asia and our Performance Additives segment operates 19 color pigments, functional additives, water treatment and timber treatment manufacturing and processing facilities in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia. The location of our facilities allows us to be closer to our customers, which enables us to service our customers with greater speed, while reducing tariffs and transportation costs and increasing our cost competitiveness. Approximately 85% of our TiO 2 sales are made directly to customers through our own global sales and technical services network, enabling us to work directly with our customers.

    Product Innovation and Technical Services to Grow Our Business.   We maintain a vibrant pipeline of new product developments that are closely aligned with the needs of our customers. Approximately 7% of our 2016 revenues generated by TiO 2 originate from products launched in the last five years. In the specialty markets, which have demanding requirements, more than 20% of our revenues are generated from products commercialized in the last five years. We believe that our technical expertise and knowledge of our customers' applications is a source of significant competitive advantage, particularly in specialty applications. We also believe that our business is recognized by customers as the leading innovator in many applications. Our innovations pipeline is focused on differentiated and more specialized product offerings for printing inks, industrial coatings, performance

115


Table of Contents

      plastics, cosmetics, food and fibers. Although TiO 2 is primarily known for its opacifying properties, our expertise has also enabled us to unlock additional functionality from the TiO 2 crystal and our teams are at the leading edge of innovations in UV absorption technology, solar reflectance and catalytic applications. As an example, our UV technology is critical to the development of sunscreens, and our catalyst technology has enabled us to produce TiO 2 particles that strip pollutants from exhaust gases and help to remove nitrogen and sulfur contaminants from refinery process streams.

    Strong Management Team Driving Results.   We have a strong executive management team that combines deep industry experience with proven leadership. Simon Turner, our President and Chief Executive Officer, previously served as President of the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman. He has been employed in the Pigments division for 27 years and his wealth of experience brings an immediate, demonstrated track record of success to Venator. Mr. Turner led the successful transformation of our business during the industry's recovery cycle and the successful integration of our Rockwood acquisition, providing us the ability to (i) target more specialty and differentiated end markets that yield higher and more stable margins and (ii) deliver more than $200 million of annual cost synergies in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014 pro forma for the acquisition of Rockwood.

    Kurt Ogden, our Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, previously served as Huntsman's Vice President, Investor Relations and Finance, Russ Stolle, our Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, previously served as Huntsman's Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, and Mahomed Maiter, our Senior Vice President, White Pigments, previously served as Huntsman's Vice President, Revenue/Global Sales and Marketing. Together, they bring more than 75 years of experience in the chemicals industry, strong relationships with financial market participants and a history of success as part of Huntsman's senior management team.

Our Business Strategies

              We intend to leverage our strengths to accelerate growth and improve profitability by implementing the following strategies:

    Focus on Cash Flow Generation and Solid Balance Sheet.   We intend to focus on cash flow generation by optimizing our cost structure, working capital and capital allocation, including capital expenditures.

    We invested $1.3 billion from January 1, 2014 to March 31, 2017 on acquisitions, restructuring and integration. These restructuring and integration initiatives were substantially completed by the end of 2016. We believe we are now well positioned to reap the benefits of these initiatives. In addition, we are currently implementing our business improvement program within our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses, which we expect to be completed by the end of 2018. If successfully implemented, we expect these plans to result in increased Adjusted EBITDA from general cost reductions, volume growth (primarily via the launch of new products) and further optimization of our manufacturing network including the closure of certain facilities.

    We intend to continue to focus on managing fixed costs, increasing productivity and optimizing our manufacturing footprint in each of our segments. We expect that we will have a moderate amount of leverage upon completion of this offering and will not assume any environmental or legal liabilities from Huntsman which are not directly related to our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses. If the TiO 2 industry cycle continues to improve and we succeed in realizing our identified business improvements, we expect to

116


Table of Contents

      generate higher Adjusted EBITDA and cash flow and improve our leverage ratios and strengthen our balance sheet.

    Continue to Drive Operational Excellence and Efficiency Using Innovative and Sustainable Practices.   We intend to pursue profitable growth for our shareholders and operational excellence and efficiency for our customers while continuing our commitment to safety, sustainability and innovation. We plan to continue to improve our operational efficiency by moderating our capacity and managing our cash and working capital demands. We have effectively restructured our facilities to adapt to market dynamics and maximize asset efficiency, closed plants as necessary to adjust for changing demand and expanded into new geographies when growth opportunities arose. We continue to exceed industry standards for sustainable practices and are committed to continuing our focus on environmentally conscious efforts, which is critical to our future success and vision.

    In our Titanium Dioxide segment, we have developed an asset portfolio that positions us as one of the leading differentiated TiO 2 producers in the world, with the ability to flexibly meet customers' demands for both sulfate and chloride TiO 2 . This has allowed us to reduce our exposure to more commoditized TiO 2 applications, while growing our position in the higher value differentiated applications where there is a greater need for technical expertise and client service. We have positioned ourselves to benefit from improving market demand and prices, and we intend to continue to evaluate industry dynamics to ensure that our strategic position remains flexible and adaptable. We believe our specialty business is three times larger than that of our next closest competitor.

    In our Performance Additives segment, we have reviewed and rationalized our asset and product portfolio to position us as a competitive, high quality additives supplier into construction materials, coatings and plastics end-use applications. We continue to optimize our global manufacturing network to reduce operational costs and improve service. We have strong positions in barium and zinc products, ultramarine blue, iron oxides and timber treatment. Our customers value our ability to tailor colors and products to meet their exacting specifications.

    Through the restructuring and integration of the Rockwood businesses, including work force reductions, variable and fixed cost optimization and facility closures, we have delivered more than $200 million of annual cost synergies in the year ended December 31, 2016 relative to the year ended December 31, 2014 pro forma for the acquisition of Rockwood and we will continue to seek opportunities to further optimize our business.

    Leverage Leadership and Innovation to Drive Growth.   We plan to leverage management's experience in prior business optimization, restructuring and integration to continue creating leaner business segments to effectively manage costs and drive profitability. We have experienced success in recent cost management programs and plan to continue careful oversight of our cost structure and revenue selections in order to further growth.

    We continue to focus on using our industry leading technology, innovation and sustainability practices to develop differentiated cutting edge products that meet the needs of our global customers.

    In addition, we benefit from our technical expertise and our ability to provide end-to-end solutions to our customers. We provide our customers with a range of support that includes guidance on the selection of the appropriate products, advice on regulatory aspects and recommendations on the testing of products in final applications. We plan to continue to leverage our technical expertise and knowledge in order to provide an optimal customer platform that is conducive to future growth.

117


Table of Contents

Our Business

              We manufacture TiO 2 , functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment products. Our broad product range, coupled with our ability to develop and supply specialized products into technically exacting end-use applications, has positioned us as a leader in the markets we serve. In 2014, Huntsman acquired the performance additives and TiO 2 businesses of Rockwood, broadening our specialty TiO 2 product offerings and adding significant scale and capacity to our TiO 2 facilities. The Rockwood acquisition positioned us as a leader in the specialty and differentiated TiO 2 industry segments, which includes products that sell at a premium and have more stable margins. The Rockwood acquisition also provided us with complementary functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment businesses. We have 27 manufacturing facilities operating in 10 countries with a total nameplate production capacity of approximately 1.3 million metric tons per year. We operate eight TiO 2 manufacturing facilities in Europe, North America and Asia and 19 color pigments, functional additives, water treatment and timber treatment manufacturing and processing facilities in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia. For the twelve months ended March 31, 2017, our pro forma revenues were $2,136 million. We believe recovery in TiO 2 margins to long term historical averages would result in a substantial increase in our profitability and cash flow.

Titanium Dioxide Segment

              TiO 2 is derived from titanium bearing ores and is a white inert pigment that provides whiteness, opacity and brightness to thousands of everyday items, including coatings, plastics, paper, printing inks, fibers, food and personal care products. We are one of the six major producers of TiO 2 that collectively account for approximately 60% of global TiO 2 production capacity according to TZMI. Producers of the remaining 40% are primarily single-plant producers that focus on regional sales. We are among the three largest global TiO 2 producers, with nameplate production capacity of approximately 782,000 metric tons per year, accounting for approximately 11% of global TiO 2 production capacity. We are able to manufacture a broad range of TiO 2 products from functional to specialty. Our specialty products generally sell at a premium into specialized applications such as fibers, catalysts, food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics. Our production capabilities are distinguished from some of our competitors because of our ability to manufacture TiO 2 using both sulfate and chloride manufacturing processes, which gives us the flexibility to tailor our products to meet our customers' needs. By operating both sulfate and chloride processes, we also have the ability to use a wide range of titanium feedstocks, which enhances the competitiveness of our manufacturing operations, by providing flexibility in the selection of raw materials. This helps insulate us from price fluctuations for any particular feedstock and allows us to manage our raw material costs.

              On January 30, 2017, our TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland experienced fire damage, and it is currently not fully operational. We are committed to repairing the facility as quickly as possible. We expect the Pori facility to restart in phases as follows: approximately 20% capacity in the second quarter of 2017; approximately 40% capacity in the second quarter of 2018; and full capacity around the end of 2018. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded a loss of $32 million for the write-off of fixed assets and lost inventory in other operating (income) expense, net in our condensed combined statements of operations (without taking into account the insurance recoveries discussed below). In addition, we recorded a loss of $4 million of costs for cleanup of the facility through March 31, 2017. The Pori facility has a nameplate capacity of up to 130,000 metric tons per year, which represents approximately 17% of our total TiO 2 nameplate capacity and approximately 2% of total global TiO 2 demand.

              The site is insured for property damage as well as business interruption losses subject to retained deductibles of $15 million and 60 days, respectively, with a limit of $500 million. We have established a process with our insurer to receive timely advance payments for the reconstruction of the facility as well as lost profits. We expect to have pre-funded cash on our balance sheet resulting from

118


Table of Contents

these advance insurance payments. We have agreed with our insurer to have monthly meetings to review relevant site activities and interim claims as well as regular progress payments. However, if we experience delays in receiving the insurance proceeds, or the proceeds do not fully cover our property damage, business interruption, lost profits or other losses, our short term liquidity may be impacted.

              On February 9, 2017, we received $54 million as an initial partial progress payment from our insurer. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded $32 million of income related to insurance recoveries in other operating (income) expense, net in our condensed combined statements of operations and we recorded $22 million as deferred income in accrued liabilities for costs not yet incurred. On May 2, 2017 and July 10, 2017, we received progress payments from our insurer of approximately $76 million and $11 million, respectively.

              We own a portfolio of brands including the TIOXIDE®, HOMBITAN®, HOMBITEC®, UVTITAN® and ALTIRIS® ranges, which are produced in our eight manufacturing facilities around the globe. We service over 1,800 customers in most major industries and geographic regions. Our global manufacturing footprint allows us to service the needs of both local and global customers, including A. Schulman, AkzoNobel, Ampacet, BASF, Clariant, DSM, Flint, PPG, PolyOne, Sherwin-Williams and Sun Chemical.

              There are two manufacturing processes for the production of TiO 2 , the sulfate process and the chloride process. We believe that the chloride process accounts for approximately 45% of global production capacity. Our production capabilities are distinguished from some of our competitors because of our ability to manufacture TiO 2 using both sulfate and chloride manufacturing processes, which gives us the flexibility to tailor our products to meet our customers' needs. Most end-use applications can use pigments produced by either process, although there are markets that prefer pigment from a specific manufacturing route—for example, the inks market prefers sulfate products and the automotive coatings market prefers chloride products. Regional customers typically favor products that are available locally. The sulfate process produces TiO 2 in both the rutile and anatase forms, the latter being used in certain high-value specialty applications.

              Once an intermediate TiO 2 pigment has been produced using either the chloride or sulfate process, it is "finished" into a product with specific performance characteristics for particular end-use applications. Co-products from both processes require treatment prior to disposal to comply with environmental regulations. In order to reduce our disposal costs and to increase our cost competitiveness, we have developed and marketed the co-products of our Titanium Dioxide segment. We sell approximately 60% of the co-products generated by our business.

              We have an established broad customer base and have successfully differentiated ourselves by establishing ourselves as a market leader in a variety of niche market segments where the innovation and specialization of our products is rewarded with higher growth prospects and strong customer relationships.

Product Type
  Rutile TiO 2   Anatase TiO 2   Nano TiO 2
Characteristics   Most common crystal form of TiO 2 . Harder and more durable crystal form   Softer, less abrasive pigment, preferred for some specialty applications   Ultra-fine TiO 2 and other TiO 2 specialties
Applications   Coatings, printing inks, PVC window frames, plastic masterbatches   Cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, food, polyester fibers, polyamide fibers   Catalysts and cosmetics

Performance Additives Segment

              Functional Additives.     Functional additives are barium and zinc based inorganic chemicals used to make colors more brilliant, coatings shine, plastic more stable and protect products from fading. We

119


Table of Contents

believe we are the leading global manufacturer of zinc and barium functional additives. The demand dynamics of functional additives are closely aligned with those of functional TiO 2 given the overlap in applications served, including coatings and plastics.

Product Type
  Barium and Zinc Additives
Characteristics   Specialty pigments and fillers based on barium and zinc based chemistry
Applications   Coatings, films, paper and glass fiber reinforced plastics

              Color Pigments.     We are a leading global producer of colored inorganic pigments for the construction, coating, plastics and specialty markets. We are one of three global leaders in the manufacture and processing of liquid, powder and granulated forms of iron oxide color pigments. We also sell natural and synthetic inorganic pigments and metal carboxylate driers. The cost effectiveness, weather resistance, chemical and thermal stability and coloring strength of iron oxide make it an ideal colorant for construction materials, such as concrete, brick and roof tile, and for coatings and plastics. We produce a wide range of color pigments and are the world's second largest manufacturer of technical grade ultramarine blue pigments, which have a unique blue shade and are widely used to correct colors, giving them a desirable clean, blue undertone. These attributes have resulted in ultramarine blue being used world-wide for polymeric applications such as construction plastics, food packaging, automotive polymers, consumer plastics, coatings and cosmetics.

              Our products are sold under a portfolio of brands that are targeted to the construction sector such as DAVIS COLORS®, GRANUFIN® and FERROXIDE® and the following brands HOLLIDAY PIGMENTS, COPPERAS RED® and MAPICO® focused predominantly on the coatings and plastics sectors.

              Our products are also used by manufacturers of colorants, rubber, paper, cosmetics, pet food, digital ink, toner and other industrial uses delivering benefits in other applications such as corrosion protection and catalysis.

              Our construction customers value our broad product range and benefit from our custom blending, color matching and color dosing systems. Our coatings customers benefit from a consistent and quality product.

Product Type
  Iron Oxides   Ultramarines   Specialty Inorganics
Chemicals
  Driers
Characteristics   Powdered, granulated or in liquid form are synthesized using a range of feedstocks   Range of ultramarine blue and violet and also manganese violet pigments   Complex inorganic pigments and cadmium pigments   A range of metal carboxylates and driers
Applications   Construction, coatings, plastics, cosmetics, inks, catalyst and laminates   Predominantly used in plastics, coatings and cosmetics   Coatings, plastics and inks   Predominantly coatings

              Iron oxide pigment's cost effectiveness, weather resistance, chemical and thermal stability and coloring strength make it an ideal colorant for construction materials, such as concrete, brick and roof tile, and for coatings such as paints and plastics. We are one of the three largest synthetic inorganic color pigments producers which together represent more than 50% of the global market for iron oxide pigments. The remaining market share consists primarily of competitors based in China.

              Made from clay, our ultramarine blue pigments are non-toxic, weather resistant and thermally stable. Ultramarine blue is used world-wide for food contact applications. Our synthetic ultramarines are permitted for unrestricted use in certain cosmetics applications. Ultramarine blue is used extensively in plastics and the paint industry. We focus on supplying our customers with technical grade ultramarine blues and violets to high specification markets such as the cosmetics industry.

120


Table of Contents

              We are now commissioning a new production facility in Augusta, Georgia, for the synthesis of iron oxide pigments, which we purchased from Rockwood. During commissioning, the facility has experienced delays producing products at the expected specifications and quantities, causing us to question the capabilities of the Augusta technology. Based on the facility's performance during the commissioning process, we have concluded that production capacity at our Augusta facility will be substantially lower than originally anticipated.

              Copperas, iron and alkali are raw materials for the manufacture of iron oxide pigments. They are used to produce colored pigment particles which are further processed into a finished pigment in powder, liquid, granule or blended powder form.

GRAPHIC

              Timber Treatment and Water Treatment.     We manufacture wood protection chemicals used primarily in residential and commercial applications to prolong the service life of wood through protection from decay and fungal or insect attack. Wood that has been treated with our products is sold to consumers through major branded retail outlets.

              We manufacture our timber treatment chemicals in the U.S. and market our products primarily in North America through Viance, LLC ("Viance"), our 50%-owned joint venture with Dow Chemical formed in 2007. Our residential construction products such as ACQ, ECOLIFE™ and Copper Azole are sold for use in decking, fencing and other residential outdoor wood structures. Our industrial construction products such as Chromated Copper Arsenate are sold for use in telephone poles and salt water piers and pilings.

              We manufacture our water treatment chemicals in Germany, and these products are used to improve water purity in industrial, commercial and municipal applications. We are one of Europe's largest suppliers of polyaluminium chloride based flocculants with approximately 140,000 metric tons of production capacity. Our main markets are municipal and industrial waste water treatment and the paper industry.

Industry Overview and Market Outlook

              Global TiO 2 demand growth rates tend to track global GDP growth rates over the medium term; however, this varies by region. Developed markets such as the U.S. and Western Europe exhibit higher consumption per person but lower demand growth rates, while emerging markets such as Asia exhibit higher demand growth rates. The TiO 2 industry experiences some seasonality in sales reflecting the high exposure to seasonal coatings end-use markets. Coating sales generally peak during the spring and summer months in the northern hemisphere, resulting in greater sales volumes during the second and third quarters of the year.

121


Table of Contents

              We are one of the six major producers of TiO 2 in the world that collectively account for approximately 60% of global TiO 2 production capacity according to TZMI. Producers of the remaining 40% are primarily single-plant producers that focus on regional sales. TiO 2 supply has historically kept pace with increases in demand as producers increased capacity through low cost incremental debottlenecks, efficiency improvements and, more recently, new capacity additions mainly in China. During periods of low TiO 2 demand, the industry experiences high stock levels and consequently reduces production to manage working capital. Pricing in the industry is driven primarily by the supply/demand balance.

              Global TiO 2 sales in 2016 exceeded 6.0 million metric tons, generating approximately $12.6 billion in industry-wide revenues based on data provided by TZMI. The global TiO 2 market is highly competitive, and competition is based primarily on product price, quality and technical service. We face competition from producers using the chloride process as well as those using the sulfate process. Due to the ease of transporting TiO 2 , there is also competition between producers with facilities in different geographies. Over the last decade, there has been substantial growth in TiO 2 demand in emerging economies, notably Asia. The growing demand in Asia has consumed the majority of Chinese production. We operate primarily in markets where our product quality and service are valued or preferred by our customers and differentiate us from Chinese TiO 2 competitors. Cost advantages are typically driven by the scale of the plant, type of feedstock, source of energy and cost of local labor. We are generally able to reduce production costs by finding innovative solutions to convert the by-products arising from our sulfate process into value-adding co-products. Today, approximately 60% of all by-products of our sulfate processes are sold as co-products, and we are one of the largest producers of sulfate co-products in the world, including gypsum, copperas and other iron salts. The profitability of a plant is not solely related to its cost structure, but also importantly to its slate of manufactured products. We believe our differentiated and specialty products, along with our ability to profitably commercialize the associated co-products, enhance our plants' overall efficiency and resulting profitability. With our competitive cost structure, and our slate of differentiated and specialty products, we believe we are well positioned to compete in a cyclical market.

              Historically, the market for large volume TiO 2 applications, including coatings, paper and plastics, has experienced alternating periods of tight supply, causing prices and margins to increase, followed by periods of lower capacity utilization, resulting in declining prices and margins. The volatility this market experiences occurs as a result of significant changes in the demand for products as a consequence of global economic activity and changes in customers' requirements. The supply-demand balance is also impacted by capacity additions or reductions that result in changes of utilization rates. In addition, TiO 2 margins are impacted by significant changes in major input costs such as energy and feedstock.

              Profitability for TiO 2 reached a peak in 2011, with significantly higher demand, prices and margins. Based on publicly available information, we believe that during this period of peak profitability many TiO 2 peer companies, including Huntsman's TiO 2 business, generated EBITDA margins in excess of 25%. Following the peak, utilization rates dropped in 2012 as demand fell due to weaker economic conditions, industry de-stocking and the addition of new TiO 2 capacity. There was an associated decline in prices and margins. Over the following three years, demand recovered slowly; however, this modest demand improvement did not result in any significant increase in operating rates, and TiO 2 prices consequently declined throughout the period. After reaching a trough in the first quarter of 2016, supply/demand fundamentals began improving in 2016 primarily due to strong global demand growth and some capacity rationalizations. Though the TiO 2 market has shown signs of recovery, prices and margins remain below long-term historical averages. With the expectation of global capacity utilization rate improvements and further price increases, TiO 2 margins are expected to increase. With approximately 70% of our revenue during the twelve months ended March 31, 2017 being derived from

122


Table of Contents

TiO 2 sales, we believe recovery in TiO 2 margins to long-term historical averages should result in increased profitability and cash flow generation.

              We estimate that the global demand for iron oxide pigments was approximately 1.3 million metric tons per year for 2016. Approximately 45% of this demand was generated from Asia, with Europe representing approximately 23% of demand and North America representing approximately 21% of demand. The construction industry consumes approximately 45% of colored iron oxide pigments, where the products are used for the coloring of manufactured concrete products such as paving tiles and precast roof tiles as well as for coloring cast in place concrete such as ready-mix, stucco and mortar. Industrial and architectural coatings represent the second largest segment for iron oxides (approximately 30% of total demand), where these pigments bring color, opacity and fade resistance to a variety of solvent and water-borne coating systems. Growth in the demand for iron oxide pigments is therefore closely linked to demand in the construction and coatings industries.

              We sell more than 90% of our functional additives products into coatings and plastics end markets. The demand dynamics for functional additives are therefore similar to those of TiO 2 . Over the last five years, there has been strong growth in demand for functional additives in specific applications such as white BOPET films. Final applications of these films include flat panel displays for televisions, labels and medical diagnostic devices. The demand for ultramarine blue pigments is primarily driven by the plastics industry, with approximately two-thirds of all ultramarine pigments used as colorants in polymeric materials such as packaging, automotive components and consumer plastics.

Customers, Sales, Marketing and Distribution

      Titanium Dioxide Segment

              We serve over 1,800 customers through our Titanium Dioxide segment. These customers produce paints and coatings, plastics, paper, printing inks, fibers and films, pharmaceuticals, food and cosmetics.

              Our ten largest customers accounted for approximately 22% of the segment's sales in 2016 and no single TiO 2 customer represented more than 10% of our sales in 2016. Approximately 85% of our TiO 2 sales are made directly to customers through our own global sales and technical services network. This network enables us to work directly with our customers and develop a deep understanding of our customers' needs and to develop valuable relationships. The remaining 15% of sales are made through our distribution network. We maximize the reach our distribution network by utilizing specialty distributors in selected markets.

              Larger customers are typically served via our own sales network and these customers often have annual volume targets with associated pricing mechanisms. Smaller customers are served through a combination of our global sales teams and a distribution network, and the route to market decision is often dependent upon customer size and end application.

              Our focus is on marketing products and services to higher growth and higher value applications. For example, we believe that our Titanium Dioxide segment is well-positioned to benefit from growth sectors, such as fibers and films, catalysts, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and food, where customers' needs are complex resulting in fewer companies that have the capability to support them. We maximize reach through specialty distributors in selected markets. Our focused sales effort, technical expertise, strong customer service and local manufacturing presence have allowed us to achieve leading market positions in a number of the countries where we manufacture our products.

123


Table of Contents

      Performance Additives Segment

              We serve over 5,000 customers through our Performance Additives segment. These customers produce materials for the construction industry, as well as coatings, plastics, pharmaceutical, personal care and catalyst applications.

              Our ten largest customers accounted for approximately 17% of the segment's sales in 2016 and no single Performance Additives customer represented more than 10% of our sales in 2016. Performance Additives segment sales are made directly to customers through our own global sales and technical services network, in addition to utilizing specialty distributors. Our focused sales effort, technical expertise, strong customer service and local manufacturing presence have allowed us to achieve leading market positions in a number of the countries where we manufacture our products. We sell iron oxides primarily through our global sales force whereas our ultramarine sales are predominantly through specialty distributors. We sell the majority of our timber treatment products directly to end customers via our joint venture Viance.

Manufacturing and Operations

      Titanium Dioxide Segment

              As of March 31, 2017, our Titanium Dioxide segment has eight manufacturing facilities operating in seven countries with a total nameplate production capacity of approximately 782,000 metric tons per year.

 
  Annual Capacity (metric tons)  
Product Area
  EAME(1)   North
America
  APAC(2)   Total  

TiO 2

    647,000     75,000     60,000     782,000  

(1)
"EAME" refers to Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

(2)
"APAC" refers to the Asia-Pacific region including India.

              Production capacities of our eight TiO 2 manufacturing facilities are listed below. Approximately 80% of our TiO 2 capacity is in Western Europe.

 
  Annual Capacity (metric tons)    
Site
  EAME(1)   North
America
  APAC   Process

Greatham, U.K. 

    150,000               Chloride TiO 2

Pori, Finland(3)

    130,000               Sulfate TiO 2

Uerdingen, Germany

    107,000               Sulfate TiO 2

Duisburg, Germany

    100,000               Sulfate TiO 2

Huelva, Spain

    80,000               Sulfate TiO 2

Scarlino, Italy

    80,000               Sulfate TiO 2

Lake Charles, Louisiana(2)

          75,000         Chloride TiO 2

Teluk Kalung, Malaysia

                60,000   Sulfate TiO 2

Total

    647,000     75,000     60,000    

(1)
Excludes a sulfate plant in Umbogintwini, South Africa, which closed in the fourth quarter of 2016, and our TiO 2 finishing plant in Calais, France.

124


Table of Contents

(2)
This facility is owned and operated by LPC, a manufacturing joint venture that is owned 50% by us and 50% by Kronos. The capacity shown reflects our 50% interest in LPC.

(3)
In January 2017, our TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland experienced fire damage, and it is currently not fully operational. We are committed to repairing the facility as quickly as possible and we anticipate that some level of production will have resumed prior to completion of the separation and we estimate that the Pori facility will be fully operational around the end of 2018. The Pori facility has nameplate capacity of up to 130,000 metric tons per year, which represents approximately 17% of our total TiO 2 nameplate capacity and approximately 2% of total global TiO 2 demand.

      Performance Additives Segment

              As of March 31, 2017, our Performance Additives segment has 19 manufacturing facilities operating in seven countries with a total nameplate production capacity of approximately 540,000 metric tons per year.

 
  Annual Capacity (metric tons)  
Product Area
  EAME   North
America
  APAC   Total  

Functional additives

    100,000                 100,000  

Color pigments

    85,000     55,000     20,000     160,000  

Timber treatment

          140,000           140,000  

Water treatment

    140,000                 140,000  

Total

    325,000     195,000     20,000     540,000  

Joint Ventures

              LPC is our 50%-owned joint venture with Kronos. We share production offtake and operating costs of the plant with Kronos, though we market our share of the production independently. The operations of the joint venture are under the direction of a supervisory committee on which each partner has equal representation. Our investment in LPC is accounted for using the equity method.

              Viance is our 50%-owned joint venture with Dow Chemical. Viance markets our timber treatment products. Our joint venture interest in Viance was acquired as part of the Rockwood acquisition on October 1, 2014. The joint venture sources all of its products through a contract manufacturing arrangement at our Harrisburg, North Carolina facility, and we bear a disproportionate amount of working capital risk of loss due to the supply arrangement whereby we control manufacturing on Viance's behalf. As a result, we concluded that we are the primary beneficiary and began consolidating Viance upon the Rockwood acquisition on October 1, 2014.

Raw Materials

      Titanium Dioxide Segment

              The primary raw materials used in our Titanium Dioxide segment are titanium-bearing ores.

 
  Titanium Dioxide
Primary raw materials   Titanium bearing ore, sulfuric acid, chlorine

              The primary raw materials that are used to produce TiO 2 are various types of titanium feedstock, which include ilmenite, rutile, titanium slag (chloride slag and sulfate slag) and synthetic rutile. According to TZMI, the world market for titanium-bearing ores has a diverse range of suppliers

125


Table of Contents

with the four largest accounting for approximately 40% of global supply. The majority of our titanium-bearing ores are sourced from India, Africa, Canada and Norway. Ore accounts for approximately 45% of TiO 2 variable manufacturing costs, while utilities (electricity, gas and steam), sulfuric acid and chlorine collectively account for approximately 30% of variable manufacturing costs.

              The majority of the titanium-bearing ores market is transacted on short-term contracts, or longer-term volume contracts with market-based pricing re-negotiated several times per year. This form of market-based ore contract provides flexibility and responsiveness in terms of pricing and quantity obligations.

      Performance Additives Segment

              Our primary raw materials for our Performance Additives segment are as follows:

 
  Functional Additives   Color Pigments   Timber Treatment   Water Chemicals

Primary raw materials

  Barium and zinc based inorganics   Iron oxide particles, scrap iron, copperas alkali   DCOIT, copper, monoethanolamine   Aluminum oxide

              The primary raw materials for functional additives production are barite and zinc. We currently source material barite from China, where we have long standing supplier relationships and pricing is negotiated largely on a purchase by purchase basis. The quality of zinc required for our business is mainly mined in Australia but can also be sourced from Canada and South America. The majority of our zinc is sourced from two key suppliers with whom we have long standing relationships.

              We source our raw material for the majority of our color pigments business from China, the U.S., France and Italy. Key raw materials are iron powder and metal scrap that are sourced from various mid-size and smaller producers primarily on a spot contract basis.

              The primary raw materials for our timber treatment business are dichloro-octylisothiazolinone ("DCOIT") and copper. We source the raw materials for the majority of our timber treatment business from China and the U.S. DCOIT is sourced on a long term contract whereas copper is procured from various mid-size and larger producers primarily on a spot contract basis.

              The primary raw materials for our water treatment business are aluminum hydroxide, hydrochloric acid and nitric acid, which are widely available from a number of sources and typically sourced through long-term contracts. We also use sulfuric acid which we source internally.

Competition

              The global markets in which our business operates are highly competitive and vary according to segment.

      Titanium Dioxide Segment

              Competition within the standard grade TiO 2 market is based on price, product quality and service. Our key competitors are The Chemours Company, Tronox Limited, Kronos and Cristal each of which is a major global producer with the ability to service all global markets and Henan, a Chinese TiO 2 producer. If any of our current or future competitors develops proprietary technology that enables them to produce products at a significantly lower cost, our technology could be rendered uneconomical or obsolete. Moreover, the sulfate based TiO 2 technology used by our Titanium Dioxide segment is widely available. Accordingly, barriers to entry, apart from capital availability, may be low and the entrance of new competitors into the industry may reduce our ability to capture improving margins in circumstances where capacity utilization in the industry is increasing.

126


Table of Contents

              Competition within the specialty TiO 2 market and the color pigments market is based on customer service, technical expertise in the customers' applications, product attributes (such as product form and quality), and price. Product quality is particularly critical in the technically demanding applications in which we focus as inconsistent product quality adversely impacts consistency in the end-product. Our primary competitors within specialty TiO 2 include Fuji Titanium Industry, Kronos and Precheza.

      Performance Additives Segment

              Competition within the functional additives market is primarily based on application know-how, brand recognition, product quality and price. Key competitors for barium-based additives include Solvay S.A., Sakai Chemical Industry Co., Ltd., 20 Microns Ltd., and various Chinese barium producers. Key competitors for zinc-based additives include various Chinese lithopone producers.

              Our primary competitors within color pigments include Lanxess AG, Cathay Pigments Group, Ferro Corporation and Shanghai Yipin Pigments Co., Ltd.

              Competition within the timber treatment market is based on price, customer support services, innovative technology, including sustainable solutions and product range. Our primary competitors are Lonza Group and Koppers Inc. Competition within the water treatment market is based on proximity to customers and price. Our primary competitors are Kemira Oyj and Feralco Group.

Intellectual Property

              Proprietary protection of our processes, apparatuses, and other technology and inventions is important to our businesses. When appropriate, we file patent and trademark applications, often on a global basis, for new product development technologies. For example, we have patented and trademarked our new solar reflecting technologies (ALTIRIS® pigments) that are used to keep colored surfaces cooler when they are exposed to the sun. As of May 2, 2017, we own a total of approximately 905 issued patents and pending patent applications and 862 trademark registrations and applications for registration. Our intellectual property portfolio includes approximately 65 issued U.S. patents, 625 patents issued in countries outside the U.S., and 215 pending patent applications, worldwide. It also includes approximately 850 trademark registrations and 12 applications for trademark registrations, worldwide.

              We hold numerous patents and, while a presumption of validity exists with respect to issued U.S. patents, we cannot assure that any of our patents will not be challenged, invalidated, circumvented or rendered unenforceable. Furthermore, we cannot assure the issuance of any pending patent application, or that if patents do issue, that these patents will provide meaningful protection against competitors or against competitive technologies. Additionally, our competitors or other third parties may obtain patents that restrict or preclude our ability to lawfully produce or sell our products in a competitive manner.

              We also rely upon unpatented proprietary know-how and continuing technological innovation and other trade secrets to develop and maintain our competitive position. There can be no assurance, however, that confidentiality and other agreements into which we enter and have entered will not be breached, that they will provide meaningful protection for our trade secrets or proprietary know-how, or that adequate remedies will be available in the event of an unauthorized use or disclosure of such trade secrets and know-how. In addition, there can be no assurance that others will not obtain knowledge of these trade secrets through independent development or other access by legal means.

              In addition to our own patents, patent applications, proprietary trade secrets and know-how, we are a party to certain licensing arrangements and other agreements authorizing us to use trade secrets,

127


Table of Contents

know-how and related technology and/or operate within the scope of certain patents owned by other entities. We also have licensed or sub-licensed intellectual property rights to third parties.

              Certain of our products are well-known brand names. Some of these registrations and applications include filings under the Madrid system for the international registration of marks and may confer rights in multiple countries. However, there can be no assurance that the trademark registrations will provide meaningful protection against the use of similar trademarks by competitors, or that the value of our trademarks will not be diluted. In our Titanium Dioxide segment, we consider our TIOXIDE®, HOMBITAN®, HOMBITEC®, UVTITAN®, HOMBIKAT™, DELTIO® and ALTIRIS® trademarks to be valuable assets. In our Performance Additives segment, we consider BLANC FIXE™, GRANUFIN™, FERROXIDE®, ECOLIFE™ and NICASAL® trademarks to be valuable assets.

              Because of the breadth and nature of our intellectual property rights and our business, we do not believe that any single intellectual property right (other than certain trademarks for which we intend to maintain the applicable registrations) is material to our business. Moreover, we do not believe that the termination of intellectual property rights expected to occur over the next several years, either individually or in the aggregate, will materially adversely affect our business, financial condition or results of operations.

              Please also see the section entitled "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements between Huntsman and Our Company" for a description of the material terms of our arrangements with Huntsman that we intend to enter prior to the consummation of this offering.

Research and Development

              We support our businesses with a major commitment to research and development, technical services and process engineering improvement. We believe innovation is critical in providing customer satisfaction and in maintaining sustainability and competitiveness in markets in which we participate. Our research and development and technical services facilities are in Wynyard, U.K. and Duisburg, Germany. Much of our research and development is focused on solutions that address significant emerging trends in the market.

              The research and development team maintains a vibrant pipeline of new developments that are closely aligned with the needs of our customers. Approximately 7% of the 2016 revenues generated by TiO 2 originate from products launched in the last five years. In the specialty markets, which have demanding and dynamic requirements, more than 20% of revenues are generated from products commercialized in the last five years. We believe we are recognized by our customers as the leading innovator in applications such as printing inks, performance plastics, cosmetics, food and fibers, and we believe they view our products in these applications as benchmarks in the industry. Our innovations include the development of different pigmentary properties, such as enhanced glossiness and opacity in ink products, as well as new dosage forms of TiO 2 . In addition, our expertise has also enabled us to unlock additional functionality from the TiO 2 crystal and our teams are at the leading edge of innovations in UV absorption technology that is critical to the development of sunscreens, as well as the optimization of TiO 2 particles for use in catalytic processes that strip pollutants from exhaust gases and help to remove nitrogen and sulfur contaminants from refinery process streams.

              For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, on a pro forma basis for the Rockwood acquisition as if it occurred on January 1, 2014, we spent $15.2 million, $16.6 million and $20.8 million, respectively, on research and development.

Geographic Data

              For sales revenue and long-lived assets by geographic areas, see note "24. Operating Segment Information" to our combined financial statements.

128


Table of Contents

Environmental, Health and Safety Matters

              General.     We are subject to extensive federal, state, local and international laws, regulations, rules and ordinances relating to safety, pollution, protection of the environment, product management and distribution, and the generation, storage, handling, transportation, treatment, disposal and remediation of hazardous substances and waste materials. In the ordinary course of business, we are subject to frequent environmental inspections and monitoring and occasional investigations by governmental enforcement authorities. In the U.S., these laws include the RCRA, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the Clean Air Act ("CAA"), the Clean Water Act, the Safe Drinking Water Act, and CERCLA, as well as the state counterparts of these statutes.

              In addition, our production facilities require operating permits that are subject to renewal, modification and, in certain circumstances, revocation. Actual or alleged violations of safety laws, environmental laws or permit requirements could result in restrictions or prohibitions on plant operations or product distribution, substantial civil or criminal sanctions, and, under some environmental laws, the assessment of strict liability and/or joint and several liability. Moreover, changes in environmental regulations could inhibit or interrupt our operations, or require us to modify our facilities or operations. Accordingly, environmental or regulatory matters may cause us to incur significant unanticipated losses, costs or liabilities. Information related to EHS matters may also be found in other areas of this report including "Risk Factors," note "2. Summary of Significant Accounting Policies—Environmental Expenditures" to our combined financial statements and note "22. Environmental, Health and Safety Matters" to our combined financial statements.

              We are subject to a wide array of laws governing chemicals, including the regulation of chemical substances and inventories under TSCA in the U.S. and CLP regulation in Europe. Analogous regimes exist in other parts of the world, including China, South Korea, and Taiwan. In addition, a number of countries where we operate, including the U.K., have adopted rules to conform chemical labeling in accordance with the globally harmonized system. Many of these foreign regulatory regimes are in the process of a multi-year implementation period for these rules. For example, GHS established a uniform system for the classification, labeling and packaging of certain chemical substances and ECHA is currently in the process of determining if certain chemicals should be proposed to the European Commission to receive a carcinogenic classification.

              Certain of our products are being evaluated under CLP regulation and their classification could negatively impact sales. On May 31, 2016, ANSES submitted a proposal to ECHA that would classify TiO 2 as a Category 1B Carcinogen classification presumed to have carcinogenic potential for humans by inhalation. Huntsman, together with other companies, relevant trade associations and Cefic, submitted comments opposing any classification of TiO 2 as carcinogenic, based on evidence from multiple epidemiological studies covering more than 24,000 production workers at 18 TiO 2 manufacturing sites over several decades that found no increased incidence of lung cancer as a result of workplace exposure to TiO 2 and other scientific studies that concluded that the response to lung overload studies with poorly soluble particles upon which the ANSES proposed classification is based is unique to the rat and is not seen in other animal species or humans. On June 8, 2017, the RAC announced its conclusion that certain evidence meets the criteria under CLP to classify TiO 2 as a Category 2 Carcinogen (described by the EU regulation as appropriate for "suspected human carcinogens") for humans by inhalation, but found such evidence not sufficiently convincing to classify TiO 2 in Category 1B ("presumed" to have carcinogenic potential for humans), as was originally proposed by ANSES. The European Commission will now evaluate the RAC report in deciding what, if any, regulatory measures should be taken. Huntsman, Cefic and others expect to continue to advocate with the European Commission that the RAC's report should not justify other than minimal regulatory measures for the reasons stated above, among others. If the European Commission were to subsequently adopt the Category 2 Carcinogen classification, it could require that many end-use products manufactured with TiO 2 be classified as containing a potential carcinogenic component, which

129


Table of Contents

could negatively impact public perception of products containing TiO 2 , limit the marketability of and demand for TiO 2 or products containing TiO 2 and potentially have spill-over, restrictive effects under other EU laws, e.g., those affecting medical and pharmaceutical applications, cosmetics, food packaging and food additives. Such classifications would also affect manufacturing operations by subjecting us to new workplace requirements that could significantly increase costs. Finally, the classification of TiO 2 as a Category 2 Carcinogen could lead the ECHA to evaluate other products with similar particle size characteristics such as iron oxides or functional additives for carcinogenic potential by inhalation for humans as well, which may ultimately have similar negative impacts to other of our products if classified as potentially carcinogenic. In addition, under the separation agreement, we are required to indemnify Huntsman for any liabilities relating to our TiO 2 operations.

              Environmental, Health and Safety Systems.     We are committed to achieving and maintaining compliance with all applicable EHS legal requirements, and we have developed policies and management systems that are intended to identify the multitude of EHS legal requirements applicable to our operations, enhance compliance with applicable legal requirements, improve the safety of our employees, contractors, community neighbors and customers and minimize the production and emission of wastes and other pollutants. Although EHS legal requirements are constantly changing and are frequently difficult to comply with, these EHS management systems are designed to assist us in our compliance goals while also fostering efficiency and improvement and reducing overall risk to us.

              Environmental Remediation.     We have incurred, and we may in the future incur, liability to investigate and clean up waste or contamination at our current or former facilities or facilities operated by third parties at which we may have disposed of waste or other materials. Similarly, we may incur costs for the cleanup of waste that was disposed of prior to the purchase of our businesses. Under some circumstances, the scope of our liability may extend to damages to natural resources. Based on available information, we believe that the costs to investigate and remediate known contamination will not have a material effect on our financial statements. At the current time, we are unable to estimate the total cost to remediate contamination sites.

              Under CERCLA and similar state laws, a current or former owner or operator of real property in the U.S. may be liable for remediation costs regardless of whether the release or disposal of hazardous substances was in compliance with law at the time it occurred, and a current owner or operator may be liable regardless of whether it owned or operated the facility at the time of the release. Outside the U.S., analogous contaminated property laws, such as those in effect in France, can hold past owners and/or operators liable for remediation at former facilities. We have not been notified by third parties of claims against us for cleanup liabilities at former facilities or third party sites, including, but not limited to, sites listed under CERCLA.

              Under the RCRA in the U.S. and similar state laws, we may be required to remediate contamination originating from our properties as a condition to our hazardous waste permit. Some of our manufacturing sites have an extended history of industrial chemical manufacturing and use, including on-site waste disposal. We are aware of soil, groundwater or surface contamination from past operations at some of our sites, and we may find contamination at other sites in the future. Similar laws exist in a number of locations in which we currently operate, or previously operated, manufacturing facilities, such as India, France and Italy.

              Climate Change.     Globally, our operations are increasingly subject to regulations that seek to reduce emissions of GHGs, such as carbon dioxide and methane, which may be contributing to changes in the earth's climate. At the Durban negotiations of the Conference of the Parties to the Kyoto Protocol in 2012, a limited group of nations, including the EU, agreed to a second commitment period for the Kyoto Protocol, an international treaty that provides for reductions in GHG emissions. More significantly, the EU GHG Emissions Trading System ("ETS"), established pursuant to the Kyoto Protocol to reduce GHG emissions in the EU, continues in its third phase. The European Parliament

130


Table of Contents

has used a process to formalized "backloading"—the withholding of GHG allowances during 2012-2016 until 2019-2020 to prop up carbon prices. As backloading is only a temporary measure, a sustainable solution to the imbalance between supply and demand requires structural changes to the ETS. The European Commission proposes to establish a market stability reserve to address the current surplus of allowances and improve the system's resilience. The reserve will start operating in 2019. In addition, the EU has recently announced the binding target to reduce domestic GHG emissions by at least 40% below the 1990 level by 2030. The European Commission proposed an objective of increasing the share of renewable energy to at least 27% of the EU's energy consumption by 2030. The European Council endorsed this target, which is binding at the EU level. The European Commission also proposed a 30% energy savings target for 2030. The European Council, however, endorsed an indicative target of 27% to be reviewed in 2020 having in mind a 30% target.

              In addition, at the 2015 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change in Paris, the United States and nearly 200 other nations entered into an international climate agreement. Although this agreement does not create any binding obligations for nations to limit their GHG emissions, it does include pledges to voluntarily limit or reduce future emissions. The Paris Agreement entered into force in November 2016. Though the United States was one of the original signatories to the Paris Agreement, President Trump announced in June 2017 that the United States would withdraw from participation in the Agreement, but that he was willing to consider participation in other, future international agreements relating to GHGs.

              Federal climate change legislation in the U.S. appears unlikely in the near-term. As a result, domestic efforts to curb GHG emissions will continue to be led by the EPA's GHG regulations and the efforts of states. To the extent that our domestic operations are subject to the EPA's GHG regulations, we may face increased capital and operating costs associated with new or expanded facilities. Significant expansions of our existing facilities or construction of new facilities may be subject to the CAA requirements for pollutants regulated under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration and Title V programs.

              In August 2015, the EPA issued its final Clean Power Plan rules that establish carbon pollution standards for power plants, called CO 2 emission performance rates. In February 2016, the U.S. Supreme Court granted a stay of the implementation of the Clean Power Plan. This stay will remain in effect until the conclusion of the appeals process. On March 28, 2017, the Trump administration issued an executive order directing the EPA to review the Clean Power Plan. On the same day, the EPA filed a motion in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D. C. Circuit requesting that the court hold the case in abeyance while the EPA conducts its review of the Clean Power Plan. It is not yet clear what changes, if any, will result from the EPA's review, or how the courts will rule on the legality of the Clean Power Plan. If the rules survive the EPA's review, are upheld at the conclusion of this appellate process, and depending on how states decide to implement these rules, they may result in national or regional credit trading schemes. Collectively, these rules and agreements may affect the long-term price and supply of electricity and natural gas and demand for products that contribute to energy efficiency and renewable energy. These various regulations and agreements are likely to result in increased costs to purchased energy, additional capital costs for installation or modification of GHG emitting equipment, and additional costs associated directly with GHG emissions (such as cap and trade systems or carbon taxes), which are primarily related to energy use. Compliance with these regulations and any more stringent restrictions in the future may increase our operational costs.

              Under a consent decree with states and environmental groups, the EPA is due to propose new source performance standards for GHG emissions from refineries. These standards could significantly increase the costs of constructing or adding capacity to refineries and may ultimately increase the costs or decrease the supply of refined products. Either of these events could have an adverse effect on our business. We are already managing and reporting GHG emissions, to varying degrees, as required by law for our sites in locations subject to Kyoto Protocol obligations and/or ETS requirements. Although

131


Table of Contents

these sites are subject to existing GHG legislation, few have experienced or anticipate significant cost increases as a result of these programs, although it is possible that GHG emission restrictions may increase over time. Potential consequences of such restrictions include capital requirements to modify assets to meet GHG emission restrictions and/or increases in energy costs above the level of general inflation, as well as direct compliance costs. Currently, however, it is not possible to estimate the likely financial impact of potential future regulation on any of our sites.

              Finally, it should be noted that some scientists have concluded that increasing concentrations of GHGs in the earth's atmosphere may produce climate changes that have significant physical effects, such as increased frequency and severity of storms, droughts, floods and other climatic events. If any of those effects were to occur, they could have an adverse effect on our assets and operations.

Employees

              As of December 31, 2016, we employed approximately 4,500 associates in our operations around the world. We believe our relations with our employees are good.

Legal Proceedings

              We are a party to various legal proceedings instituted by private plaintiffs, governmental authorities and others arising under provisions of applicable laws, including various environmental, products liability and other laws.

              Pursuant to the separation agreement, we will indemnify Huntsman against certain liabilities, including the litigation liabilities discussed below that arose prior to this offering. The term of this indemnification is indefinite and includes defense costs and expenses, as well as monetary and non-monetary settlements and judgments. Also, pursuant to the separation agreement, we will indemnify Huntsman against liabilities that may arise in the future in connection with our business, including environmental, tax and product liabilities. For additional information see note "21. Commitments and Contingencies" to our combined financial statements and note "10. Commitments and Contingencies" to our unaudited condensed combined financial statements.

              Antitrust Matters.     We were named as a defendant in consolidated class action civil antitrust suits filed on February 9 and 12, 2010 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland alleging that we, our co-defendants and other alleged co-conspirators conspired to fix prices of TiO 2 sold in the U.S. between at least March 1, 2002 and the present. The other defendants named in this matter were DuPont, Kronos and Cristal (formerly Millennium). On August 28, 2012, the court certified a class consisting of the Direct Purchasers since February 1, 2003. On December 13, 2013, we and all other defendants settled the Direct Purchasers litigation and the court approved the settlement. We paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our financial statements.

              On November 22, 2013, we were named as a defendant in the Opt-Out Litigation. On April 21, 2014, the court severed the claims against us from the other defendants sued and ordered our case transferred to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Subsequently, Kronos, another defendant, was also severed from the Minnesota case and claims against it were transferred and consolidated for trial with our case in the Southern District of Texas. On February 26, 2016, we reached an agreement to settle the Opt-Out Litigation and subsequently paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our financial statements.

              We were also named as a defendant in a class action civil antitrust suit filed on March 15, 2013 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by the Indirect Purchasers making essentially the same allegations as did the Direct Purchasers. On October 14, 2014, plaintiffs filed their Second Amended Class Action Complaint narrowing the class of plaintiffs to those merchants and consumers of architectural coatings containing TiO 2 . On August 11, 2015, the court granted our motion

132


Table of Contents

to dismiss the Indirect Purchasers litigation with leave to amend the complaint. A Third Amended Class Action Complaint was filed on September 29, 2015 further limiting the class to consumers of architectural paints. Plaintiffs have raised state antitrust claims under the laws of 15 states, consumer protection claims under the laws of nine states, and unjust enrichment claims under the laws of 16 states. On November 4, 2015, we and our co-defendants filed another motion to dismiss. On June 13, 2016, the court substantially denied the motion to dismiss except as to consumer protection claims in one state. The parties are negotiating a resolution to this action.

              On August 23, 2016, we were named as a defendant in a fourth civil antitrust suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by an Indirect Purchaser, Home Depot. Home Depot is an Indirect Purchaser primarily through paints it purchases from various manufacturers. We settled this matter and the court dismissed the case on May 31, 2017 for an amount immaterial to our financial statements.

              These Indirect Purchasers seek to recover injunctive relief, treble damages or the maximum damages allowed by state law, costs of suit and attorneys' fees. We are not aware of any illegal conduct by us or any of our employees.

              Other Proceedings.     We are a party to various other proceedings instituted by private plaintiffs, governmental authorities and others arising under provisions of applicable laws, including various environmental, products liability and other laws. Except as otherwise disclosed in our combined financial statements, we do not believe that the outcome of any of these matters will have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

Properties

              We own or lease chemical manufacturing and research facilities in the locations indicated in the list below which we believe are adequate for our short-term and anticipated long-term needs. We own or lease office space and storage facilities throughout the world. Our headquarters operations are conducted across two of our administrative offices: The Woodlands, Texas and Wynyard, U.K. Our principal executive offices are located at the Wynyard location, with the address of Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park, Stockton-On-Tees, TS22 5FD, United Kingdom. The following is a list

133


Table of Contents

of our principal owned or leased properties where manufacturing, research and main office facilities are located.

Location(2)
  Business Segment(4)   Description of Facility

Wynyard, U.K.(1)

  Various   Headquarters & Administrative Offices, Research Facility and Shared Services Center

Greatham, U.K. 

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Manufacturing Facility

Birtley, U.K. 

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Kidsgrove, U.K. 

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Sudbury, U.K. 

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Duisburg, Germany

  Various   TiO 2 , Functional Additives, Water Treatment Manufacturing and Research Facility and Administrative Offices

Ibbenbueren, Germany

  Additives   Water Treatment Manufacturing Facility

Uerdingen, Germany(1)

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Manufacturing Facility

Schwarzheide, Germany(1)

  Additives   Water Treatment Manufacturing Facility

Walluf, Germany(1)

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Everberg, Belgium

  Various   Shared Services Center and Administrative Offices

Calais, France(5)

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Finishing Facility

Comines, France

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Huelva, Spain

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Manufacturing Facility

Scarlino, Italy

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Manufacturing Facility

Turin, Italy

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Pori, Finland

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Manufacturing Facility

Taicang, China(1)

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Teluk Kalung, Malaysia

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Manufacturing Facility

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia(1)

  Various   Shared Services Center and Administrative Offices

Dandenong, Australia(1)

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Augusta, Georgia

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Lake Charles, Louisiana(3)

  TiO 2   TiO 2 Manufacturing Facility

Beltsville, Maryland(1)

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Los Angeles, California

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

St. Louis, Missouri(1)

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Harrisburg, North Carolina

  Additives   Timber Treatments Manufacturing Facility

Easton, Pennsylvania(1)

  Additives   Color Pigments Manufacturing Facility

Freeport, Texas

  Additives   Timber Treatments Manufacturing Facility

The Woodlands, Texas(1)

  Various   Headquarters & Administrative Offices

(1)
Leased land and/or building.

(2)
Excludes a sulfate plant in Umbogintwini, South Africa, which was closed in the fourth quarter of 2016.

(3)
Owned by LPC, our unconsolidated manufacturing joint venture which is owned 50% by us and 50% by Kronos.

(4)
Solely for purposes of this column, "TiO 2 " and "Additives" represent the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments, respectively.

(5)
A plan to close the Finishing Facility at Calais during the third quarter of 2017 was announced on March 17, 2017.

134


Table of Contents


MANAGEMENT

Executive Officers

              The following table sets forth information, as of July 14, 2017, regarding the individuals who are expected to serve as our executive officers following this offering.

Name
  Age   Position(s) at Venator

Simon Turner

    53   President and Chief Executive Officer

Kurt Ogden

    48   Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Russ Stolle

    55   Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer

Phil Wrigley

    50   Vice President, EHS and Manufacturing Excellence

Antje Gerber

    50   Vice President, Specialty

Jan Buberl

    41   Vice President, Color Pigments and Timber Treatment

Mahomed Maiter

    56   Senior Vice President, White Pigments

               Simon Turner has served as President and Chief Executive Officer and as a director of Venator since the second quarter of 2017. Mr. Turner has served as Division President, Pigments & Additives, at Huntsman since November 2008, Senior Vice President, Pigments & Additives, from April 2008 to November 2008, Vice President of Global Sales from September 2004 to April 2008 and General Manager Co-Products and Director Supply Chain and Shared Services from July 1999 to September 2004. Prior to joining Huntsman, Mr. Turner held various positions with Imperial Chemical Industries PLC ("ICI"). Our board of directors believes Mr. Turner's extensive experience in the chemical industry, his wealth of knowledge of our business and his demonstrated track record of success in leading the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman will make him a valuable member of our board of directors.

               Kurt Ogden has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Venator since the second quarter of 2017. Mr. Ogden has served as Vice President, Investor Relations and Finance of Huntsman since February 2009 and as Director, Corporate Finance from October 2004 to February 2009. Between 2000 and 2004, he was Executive Director Financial Planning and Analysis with Hillenbrand Industries and Vice President Treasurer with Pliant Corporation. Mr. Ogden began his career with Huntsman Chemical Corporation in 1993 and held various positions with related companies up to 2000. Mr. Ogden is a Certified Public Accountant.

               Russ Stolle has served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer of Venator since the second quarter of 2017. Mr. Stolle has served as Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Huntsman since January 2010. From October 2006 to January 2010, Mr. Stolle served as Huntsman's Senior Vice President, Global Public Affairs and Communications, from November 2002 to October 2006, he served as Huntsman's Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, from October 2000 to November 2002, he served as Huntsman's Vice President and Chief Technology Counsel and from April 1994 to October 2000 he served as Huntsman's Chief Patent and Licensing Counsel. Prior to joining Huntsman in 1994, Mr. Stolle had been an attorney with Texaco Inc. and an associate with the law firm of Baker Botts L.L.P.

               Phil Wrigley has served as Vice President, EHS and Manufacturing Excellence of Venator since the second quarter of 2017. Mr. Wrigley has served as Vice President, Manufacturing Operations at Huntsman since September 2014, and as EHS Director from February 2011 to August 2014. Prior to joining Huntsman in 2011, Mr. Wrigley served as Works Director for an aluminum smelter at Rio Tinto Alcan Inc. Mr. Wrigley started his career as an engineer at ICI and later moved to Rohm and Haas Company where he held a series of engineering and manufacturing leadership positions, culminating in the position of European Operations Director.

135


Table of Contents

               Antje Gerber has served as Vice President, Specialty of Venator since the second quarter of 2017. Ms. Gerber has served as Vice President, Specialty for Huntsman since February 2016. Prior to joining Huntsman, from June 2009 to January 2016, Ms. Gerber served at H.B. Fuller in various positions, most recently as Business Director, and prior to H.B. Fuller, Ms. Gerber served in various roles at Evonik. Ms. Gerber has over 20 years of specialty chemical experience at leading chemical companies.

               Jan Buberl has served as Vice President, Color Pigments and Timber Treatment of Venator since the second quarter of 2017. Mr. Buberl has served as Vice President, Color Pigments and Timber Treatment for Huntsman since October 2014. Prior to joining Huntsman, Mr. Buberl held various positions at BASF SE ("BASF") in Germany, the United States of America, Spain and China from 1996 to 2014. Most recently, from September 2009 to September 2014, Mr. Buberl was Business Director for BASF's Specialty Product Division.

               Mahomed Maiter has served as Senior Vice President, White Pigments of Venator since the second quarter of 2017. Mr. Maiter has served as Vice President, Revenue/Global Sales and Marketing of Huntsman since May 2008 and in other various senior leadership capacities with Huntsman since August 2004. Prior to joining Huntsman, Mr. Maiter held various positions with ICI. Mr. Maiter has over 32 years of experience in the chemical and pigment industry covering a range of senior commercial, global sales and marketing, business development, manufacturing and business roles.

Board of Directors

              The following table sets forth information, as of July 14, 2017, regarding certain individuals who are expected to serve as members of our board of directors following this offering. Upon completion of this offering, we expect a majority of our board of directors to reside outside of the U.K. and we expect a majority of our board of directors will qualify as independent directors.

Name
  Age  

Peter R. Huntsman

    54  

Simon Turner

    53  

Sir Robert J. Margetts

    70  

Douglas D. Anderson

    67  

Daniele Ferrari

    56  

               Peter R. Huntsman was appointed as a director of Venator in the second quarter of 2017. Mr. Huntsman currently serves as President, Chief Executive Officer and as a director of Huntsman and has served as a director of Huntsman and its affiliated companies since 1994. Prior to his appointment in July 2000 as CEO of Huntsman, Mr. Huntsman had served as its President and Chief Operating Officer since 1994. In 1987, after working for Olympus Oil since 1983, Mr. Huntsman joined Huntsman Polypropylene Corporation as Vice President before serving as Senior Vice President and General Manager. Mr. Huntsman has also served as Senior Vice President of Huntsman Chemical Corporation and as a Senior Vice President of Huntsman Packaging Corporation, a former subsidiary of Huntsman.

              Our board of directors believes that Mr. Huntsman's current position as Huntsman's CEO enables him to bring invaluable operational, financial, regulatory and governance insights to our board of directors, and his considerable role in the history and management of Huntsman and its affiliates enables him to advise our board of directors on our business, the chemical industry and related opportunities and challenges as we transition into a standalone company, and will help provide continuity for employees and customers of Venator.

               Sir Robert J. Margetts was appointed as a director of Venator in the second quarter of 2017. Sir Robert has served as one of Huntsman's directors since August 2010, and is a member of its Audit

136


Table of Contents

Committee and its Nominating & Corporate Governance Committee. Sir Robert currently also serves as Deputy Chairman of PJSC Uralkali, a publicly traded potash fertilizer producer, and on the boards of a number of privately held companies. In addition to previously serving as a director for several other companies, Sir Robert also previously worked for ICI where he ultimately served as the Vice Chairman of its Main Board. Our board of directors believes that Sir Robert's knowledge of and experience in the chemical industry qualify him to serve on our board of directors.

               Douglas D. Anderson is expected to serve as a director of Venator, effective prior to or concurrently with the completion of this offering. Mr. Anderson currently serves as the Dean of the Jon M. Huntsman School of Business at Utah State University, a position he was appointed to in 2006, and is the Jon M. Huntsman Presidential Professor of Leadership. Previously, Mr. Anderson served as Deputy Counselor to the Secretary, U.S. Treasury, as a director of corporate development for Bendix Corporation, and as managing partner of the Center for Executive Development, an executive consulting firm. Our board of directors believes that Mr. Anderson's extensive business and leadership expertise qualifies him to serve on our board of directors.

               Daniele Ferrari is expected to serve as a director of Venator, effective prior to or concurrently with the completion of this offering. Mr. Ferrari is also serving as Chief Executive Officer of Versalis S.p.A., a chemical manufacturer, and as Chairman of Matrìca S.p.A., a joint-venture with Novamont focusing on renewable chemistry, since March 2011. Mr. Ferrari has over 30 years of experience in the chemical industry, including working as President of Huntsman's Performance Products division until January 2011 and previously in several business assignments at ICI in the U.K. Our board of directors believes that Mr. Ferrari's experience in and knowledge of the chemical industry and his executive leadership experience qualify him to serve on our board of directors.

Status as a Controlled Company

              Because Huntsman will beneficially own a majority of the voting power of our outstanding ordinary shares following the completion of this offering, we expect to be a controlled company under the NYSE corporate governance standards. A controlled company need not comply with the applicable corporate governance rules that require its board of directors to have a majority of independent directors and independent compensation and nominating and governance committees. Notwithstanding our status as a controlled company, we will remain subject to the applicable corporate governance standard that requires us to have an audit committee composed entirely of independent directors. As a result, we must have at least one independent director on our audit committee by the date our ordinary shares are listed on the NYSE, a majority of independent directors on our audit committee within 90 days of the listing date and all independent directors on our audit committee within one year of the listing date.

              We currently do not intend to utilize the exemptions from the NYSE corporate governance standards available to controlled companies. We will cease to qualify as a controlled company once Huntsman ceases to own a majority of the voting power of our outstanding ordinary shares.

Board Committees

Audit Committee

              Prior to or in connection with completion of this offering, our board of directors will establish an Audit Committee. We anticipate that the Audit Committee will initially consist of three directors, Messrs. Anderson and Ferrari, and Sir Robert J. Margetts, each of whom we expect to be independent under the rules of the SEC, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the NYSE. We expect our board of directors to determine that Sir Robert qualifies as an "audit committee financial expert" as such term is currently defined in Item 407(d)(5) of Regulation S-K. The committee will meet separately with representatives of our independent auditors, our internal audit personnel and representatives of senior

137


Table of Contents

management in performing its functions. The Audit Committee will approve the services of the independent auditors and review the general scope of audit coverage, matters relating to internal controls systems and other matters related to accounting and reporting functions. The board of directors is expected to determine that all of the members of the Audit Committee are financially literate and have accounting or related financial management expertise, each as required by the applicable NYSE listing standards. The board of directors is also expected to determine that at least one member of the Audit Committee will qualify as an audit committee financial expert under the applicable rules of the Exchange Act. We expect to adopt an Audit Committee charter defining the committee's primary duties in a manner consistent with the rules of the SEC and NYSE standards.

Compensation Committee

              Prior to or in connection with the completion of this offering, our board of directors will establish a Compensation Committee. We anticipate that the Compensation Committee will initially consist of three directors, Messrs. Anderson and Ferrari, and Sir Robert J. Margetts, each of whom we expect to be "independent" under the rules of the SEC, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the NYSE. This committee will establish salaries, incentives and other forms of compensation for officers and other employees. Our Compensation Committee will also administer our incentive compensation and benefit plans. We expect to adopt a Compensation Committee charter defining the committee's primary duties in a manner consistent with the rules of the SEC, the PCAOB and applicable NYSE or market standards.

Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee

              Prior to or in connection with the completion of this offering, our board of directors will establish a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee. We anticipate that the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee will consist of three directors, Messrs. Anderson and Ferrari, and Sir Robert J. Margetts, each of whom we expect to be "independent" under the rules of the SEC, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the NYSE. This committee will identify, evaluate and recommend qualified nominees to serve on our board of directors; develop and oversee our internal corporate governance processes; and maintain a management succession plan. We expect to adopt a Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee charter defining the committee's primary duties in a manner consistent with the rules of the SEC and NYSE standards.

Director Independence

              To qualify as "independent" under the NYSE listing standards, a director must meet objective criteria set forth in the NYSE listing standards, and the board of directors must affirmatively determine that the director has no material relationship with us (either directly or as a partner, shareholder or officer of an organization that has a relationship with us) that would interfere with his or her exercise of independent judgment in carrying out his or her responsibilities as a director. The NYSE independence criteria include that the director not be our employee and not have engaged in various types of business dealings with us.

              The board of directors will review all direct or indirect business relationships between each director (including his or her immediate family) and us, as well as each director's relationships with charitable organizations, to assess director independence as defined in the listing standards of the NYSE. The board of directors is in the process of reviewing the independence of our directors using the independence standards of the NYSE. Currently, we anticipate that our board of directors will determine that each of Messrs. Anderson and Ferrari, and Sir Robert J. Margetts are independent under the rules of the SEC, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the NYSE.

138


Table of Contents

Corporate Governance Policies

              Our board of directors will adopt corporate governance policies that among other matters, will provide for the following: membership on the board is made up of a majority of independent directors who, at a minimum, meet the criteria for independence required by the NYSE; each regularly scheduled board of directors meeting will include an executive session of the non-management directors; the independent directors will meet in executive session at least once annually; the board of directors and its committees will conduct an annual self-evaluation; non-management directors are not permitted to serve as directors for more than three other public companies; our Chief Executive Officer is not permitted to serve as a director for more than two other public companies; directors are expected to attend all meetings of the board of directors and of the committees of which they are members; directors not also serving as executive officers are required to offer their resignation effective at the next annual meeting of shareholders upon reaching their 75th birthday (subject to certain exceptions); directors are required to offer their resignation upon a change in their principal occupation; directors should function consistent with the highest level of professional ethics and integrity; and to effectively discharge their oversight duties, directors have full and free access to our officers and employees.

Financial Code of Ethics and Business Conduct Guidelines

              Our board of directors will adopt a Financial Code of Ethics applicable to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer or Controller. Among other matters, this code will be designed to promote: honest and ethical conduct; ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest; full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure in reports and documents that we file with, or submit to, the SEC and in our other public communications; compliance with applicable governmental laws and regulations and stock exchange rules; prompt internal reporting of violations of the code to an appropriate person or persons identified in the code; and accountability for adherence to the code. In addition, our board of directors will adopt Business Conduct Guidelines, which will require all directors, officers and employees to adhere to these guidelines in addressing the legal and ethical issues encountered in conducting their work.

Compensation Committee Interlocks and Insider Participation

              During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2016 and the three months ended March 31, 2017, the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments were operated by subsidiaries of Huntsman and not through a separate company and therefore did not have a compensation committee or any other committee serving a similar function. Decisions as to the compensation of those who will serve as our executive officers will be made initially by Huntsman.

139


Table of Contents


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION

              Upon the completion of this offering, we will be a stand-alone public company formed to hold the assets of the Pigments & Additives segment of Huntsman's business, which, prior to the consummation of the separation, comprised a portion of the business and assets of Huntsman. The individuals identified below will serve as our "named executive officers" ("NEOs"), and these individuals have not historically acted as a management team prior to this offering.

    Simon Turner—President and Chief Executive Officer

    Kurt Ogden—Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

    Russ Stolle—Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer

    Mahomed Maiter—Senior Vice President, White Pigments

    Jan Buberl—Vice President, Color Pigments and Timber Treatment

              In accordance with SEC disclosure rules, historical compensation for our NEOs is not required in connection with the IPO of a Huntsman subsidiary. However, at the request of the SEC, we included historical compensation information with respect to Mr. Turner in prior filings and communications with the SEC, therefore his historical compensation information has been retained and disclosed below. All discussions regarding compensation policies and programs with respect to Mr. Turner's historical compensation relate to Huntsman policies and programs. For a more detailed explanation of the Huntsman compensation plans applicable to Huntsman's named executive officers and certain executive officers, see the section titled "Compensation Discussion and Analysis" within Huntsman's latest definitive proxy statement filed with the SEC. Following this offering, Mr. Turner and our other NEOs will receive compensation and benefits under our compensation programs and plans, which may not mirror the Huntsman plans described below.


Historical Compensation

2016 Summary Compensation Table

              The following table details compensation paid to or earned by Simon Turner, our President and Chief Executive Officer under Huntsman's compensation programs and plans for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

Name and Principal
Position
  Year   Salary   Bonus   Stock
Awards(1)
  Option
Awards(2)
  Non-Equity
Incentive
Plan
Compensation(3)
  Change in
Pension Value &
Nonqualified
Deferred
Compensation
Earnings(4)
  All Other
Compensation(5)
  Total  

Simon Turner(6)

    2016   $ 517,419   $   $ 420,000   $ 179,999   $ 541,785   $ 2,420,323   $ 111,052   $ 4,190,578  

President and Chief

    2015     544,616         595,003     255,001     843,613     1,181,977     107,519     3,527,729  

Executive Officer

    2014     539,219     150,000     400,000     400,000     171,542     1,658,686     86,037     3,405,484  

(1)
This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of awards of restricted stock and, beginning in 2015, performance share units computed in accordance with FASB Accounting Standards Codification ("ASC") Topic 718. For purposes of restricted stock awards, fair value is calculated using the closing price of Huntsman stock on the date of grant. For purposes of performance share unit awards, fair value is calculated based on the probability of attaining the target performance goals on the date of grant. For information on the valuation assumptions with regard to stock awards, refer to the notes to Huntsman's financial statements in its annual report on Form 10-K for the applicable years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014, respectively, as filed with the SEC. These amounts reflect the fair value of the reported awards on the date of grant and may not correspond to the actual value that will be recognized.

(2)
This column reflects the aggregate grant date fair value of stock options computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. The fair value of each stock option award is determined on the date of the grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model. For information on the valuation assumptions regarding option awards, refer to the notes to Huntsman's financial statements in its annual report on Form 10-K for the applicable years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 or 2014, respectively, as filed with the SEC.

140


Table of Contents

(3)
This column reflects the Huntsman annual cash performance awards that were earned for 2016 and paid during the first quarter of 2017.

(4)
This column reflects the aggregate amount of any change in pension value in 2016, to the extent any such aggregate change is positive.

(5)
The methodology used to compute the aggregate incremental cost of perquisites and other personal benefits is based on the total cost to Huntsman, and such costs are required to be reported under SEC rules when the total cost exceeds $10,000 in the aggregate for a NEO. The table below details the components reported in the "All Other Compensation" column of the Summary Compensation Table for 2016. Amounts in the table were either paid directly by or were reimbursed by Huntsman.
 
  Simon
Turner
 

Personal Use of Auto

  $ 20,937  

Family Travel

    4,652  

Company Contributions to Retirement

       

Huntsman UK Pension Plan

     

Huntsman UK Pension Plan Cash Alternative*

    78,267  

Global Pension Membership Tax Gross-Up*

    7,196  

Total

  $ 111,052  

*
During 2016, Huntsman incurred $78,267, which represents the contribution amount over the allowable limit to the Huntsman UK Pension Plan payable in cash to Mr. Turner. The Huntsman UK Pension Plan is a qualified defined contribution retirement plan available to its U.K. employees. Associated with the nonqualified Huntsman Global Pension Scheme, Huntsman incurred $7,196 to gross-up taxes associated with its contributions to this plan.
(6)
For reporting purposes, the 2016 values for Mr. Turner have been converted using an exchange rate of 1 British pound, or GBP, to 1.3953 U.S. dollars, or USD, being the exchange rate as of February 29, 2016 (which is the internal date used to estimate pro forma elements of compensation). Values for 2014 and 2015 were calculated based on exchange rates applicable in those years and have not been recast to conform to the 2016 GBP exchange rate.

Grants of Plan-Based Awards in 2016

              The following table provides information about annual cash performance awards granted through Huntsman's annual cash performance award program and long-term equity incentive awards granted through the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan to Mr. Turner in 2016.

 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
  Grant
Date
Fair
Value of
Stock and
Option
Awards(6)
($)
 
 
   
  Estimated Future Payouts
Under Non-Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(1)
  Estimated Future Payouts
Under Equity Incentive
Plan Awards(2)
   
   
   
 
 
   
  All
Other
Stock
Awards(3)
(#)
  All
Other
Option
Awards(4)
(#)
  Exercise or
Base Price
of Option
Awards(5)
($/Sh)
 
Name
  Grant
Date
  Threshold
($)
  Target
($)
  Maximum
($)
  Threshold
(#)
  Target
(#)
  Maximum
(#)
 

Simon Turner

    02/03/16   $ 0   $ 364,850   $ 729,700                              

    02/03/16                 5,079     20,316     40,632               $ 180,000  

    02/03/16                             27,088             240,000  

    02/03/16                                 61,224   $ 8.86     179,999  

(1)
This column shows annual cash performance awards granted under Huntsman's annual cash performance award program to Mr. Turner in 2016. The amounts reported in the table represent the target and maximum cash performance award guidelines established by the Compensation Committee of the Huntsman Board of Directors but do not reflect the maximum annual dollar denominated incentive award amount that could be paid under the annual pool program, which amount is not determinable at the time the awards are granted and may not exceed the $15 million limit under the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan. The amounts actually earned by Mr. Turner pursuant to Huntsman's annual cash performance award program for 2016 are reported in the "Non-equity incentive plan compensation" column of the Summary Compensation Table.

(2)
This column shows performance share units granted under the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan to Mr. Turner in 2016. The performance share units will be eligible to vest on December 31, 2018, subject to the achievement of relative total shareholder return ("TSR") performance metrics. Amounts reported in the (a) "Threshold" column reflect the threshold number of performance share units (i.e., 25% of target) that may be earned for a certain minimum level of performance, (b) "Target" column reflect the target number of shows performance share units, or 100%, that may be earned and (c) "Maximum" column reflect the maximum number of performance share units that may be earned (i.e., 200% of target), in each case, based on relative TSR achievement against applicable performance metrics. If performance is below the threshold, no performance share units are earned.

(3)
This column shows the number of restricted shares granted under the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan to Mr. Turner in 2016. The restricted shares vest ratably in three equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date. During the restriction period, each restricted share entitles the individual to vote such share, and each restricted share entitles the individual to accrue quarterly payments by Huntsman equal to the quarterly dividend on one share of Huntsman common stock.

141


Table of Contents

(4)
This column shows the number of nonqualified options granted under the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan to Mr. Turner in 2016. The option awards become exercisable and vest ratably in three equal annual installments beginning on the first anniversary of the grant date.

(5)
The exercise price of the nonqualified options disclosed in this column is equal to the closing price of Huntsman's common stock on the New York Stock Exchange on the date of grant.

(6)
This column shows the full grant date fair value of the awards computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718. With respect to the performance share units, the amount shown reflects the full grant date fair value computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 based on probable achievement of the market conditions, which is consistent with the estimate of aggregate compensation to be recognized over the service period, excluding the effect of estimated forfeitures.

Narrative Disclosure to Summary Compensation Table and Grants of Plan-Based Awards Table

              Mr. Turner was not a party to an employment agreement with Huntsman during the 2016 year. His base salary, annual bonus opportunity and equity grants were each determined by Huntsman. Huntsman designs base salaries to be a fixed portion of total compensation, with an executive officer's base salary generally reflecting the officer's responsibilities, tenure, job performance, special circumstances (such as overseas assignments) and the market for the executive's services.

              Mr. Turner's 2016 annual bonus was granted pursuant to Huntsman's annual cash performance award program. The Huntsman 2016 annual bonus plan was based on various performance goals, including corporate and divisional Adjusted EBITDA, cash flow and inventory goals, as individualized for each executive based on his or her responsibilities. Mr. Turner's target bonus award was set at 70% of his base salary, with a maximum payout set at 200% of his target amount. Mr. Turner received a payout for the 2016 year that was in the mid-range of his target and maximum bonus award amounts.

              For 2016 Huntsman approved awards of stock options, time-based restricted stock and performance share units, which vest upon the achievement of relative TSR milestones. The long term equity incentive awards granted to Mr. Turner in 2016 comprised a mix of stock options (30% value), restricted stock (40% value) and performance share units (30% value). The vesting schedules for each award are described above within the footnotes to the Grants of Plan-Based Awards table above.

              With respect to the perquisites provided to Mr. Turner during the 2016 year, Huntsman provides executive officers with leased vehicles for business use, which executives may also use for personal transportation. Executive officers are responsible for the taxes on imputed income associated with the personal use of these vehicles. Travel costs for family members of employees or consultants are reimbursable by Huntsman under limited circumstances. Employees and consultants are responsible for any taxable income associated with this reimbursement.

Outstanding Equity Awards at 2016 Year-End

              The following table provides information on the outstanding stock options, restricted stock awards and performance share units held by Mr. Turner as of December 31, 2016. The market value of

142


Table of Contents

the restricted stock and performance share unit awards is based on the closing market price of Huntsman stock on December 30, 2016, the last day of trading in 2016, which was $19.08.

 
   
  Option Awards   Stock Awards  
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
  Equity
Incentive
Plan
Awards:
Number of
Unearned
Shares
that Have
Not Vested(4)
(#)
  Equity
Incentive
Plan
Awards:
Market
Value of
Unearned
Shares
that Have
Not Vested(5)
($)
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
  Market
Value of
Shares or
Units of
Stock That
Have Not
Vested(3)
($)
 
 
   
  Number of Securities
Underlying Unexercised
Options(1)
   
   
  Number of
Shares or
Units of
Stock that
Have Not
Vested(2)
#
 
 
   
  Option
Exercise
Price
($)
   
 
Name
  Date of
Award
  Exercisable
(#)
  Unexercisable
(#)
  Option
Expiration
Date
 

Simon Turner

    02/03/16         61,224   $ 8.86     02/03/26     27,088   $ 516,839     40,632   $ 775,259  

    02/04/15     8,383     16,765   $ 22.77     02/04/25     9,954   $ 189,922     1,400   $ 26,712  

    02/05/14     27,692     13,845   $ 21.22     02/05/24     6,283   $ 119,880          

    02/06/13     53,662       $ 17.85     02/06/23                  

    02/01/12     62,893       $ 13.41     02/01/22                  

    02/02/11     46,231       $ 17.59     02/02/21                  

    02/23/10     21,459       $ 13.50     02/23/20                  

    03/02/09     89,561       $ 2.59     03/02/19                  

(1)
Huntsman option awards vest and become exercisable ratably in three equal annual installments on the first three anniversaries of each respective grant date. The outstanding option awards granted on February 5, 2014 were 66 2 / 3 % vested as of December 31, 2016 and vested as to 100% on February 5, 2017. The outstanding option awards granted on February 4, 2015 vested as to 33 1 / 3 % on February 5, 2016, vested as to 66 2 / 3 % on February 4, 2017, and as to 100% on February 4, 2018. The outstanding option awards granted on February 3, 2016 vest as to 33 1 / 3 % on February 3, 2017, vest as to 66 2 / 3 % on February 3, 2018, and as to 100% on February 3, 2019.

(2)
Huntsman restricted stock awards vest and lapse their associated restrictions ratably in three equal annual installments on the first three anniversaries of each respective grant date. Restricted stock awards have generally been granted on the same day as option awards and vest on the same schedule as footnoted for option awards above. The restricted stock awards granted on February 5, 2014 were 66 2 / 3 % vested as of December 31, 2016, and vest as to 100% on February 5, 2017. The restricted stock awards granted on February 4, 2015 were vested as to 33 1 / 3 % on December 31, 2016, vested as to 66 2 / 3 % on February 4, 2017, and vest as to 100% on February 4, 2018. The restricted stock awards granted on February 3, 2016 vest as to 33 1 / 3 % on February 3, 2017, vest as to 66 2 / 3 % on February 3, 2018, and vest as to 100% on February 3, 2019.

(3)
The market value of unvested restricted stock reported in this column is calculated by multiplying $19.08, the closing market price of Huntsman's stock on December 30, 2016, by the number of unvested restricted shares as of December 31, 2016 for each restricted stock grant listed above.

(4)
For Huntsman's performance share units granted on February 4, 2015, awards were divided into two equal tranches. The first tranche had a performance period that ended on December 31, 2016. None of the performance share units assigned to that tranche were deemed to be earned as of December 31, 2016, therefore no awards from that tranche are deemed to be outstanding for purposes of this table. The second tranche has a performance period that is scheduled to end on December 31, 2017, subject to the achievement of relative TSR performance metrics. Amounts in this table with respect to the second tranche of the 2015 awards reflect an estimated payout of a number of shares based on the threshold level of achievement with respect to the applicable performance metrics, as Huntsman's performance at December 31, 2016 did not exceed the threshold performance level. The performance share units granted on February 3, 2016 have a performance period of three years, spanning from January 1, 2016 to December 31, 2018, also subject to the achievement of relative TSR performance metrics. The number of outstanding performance units relating to the 2016 grant reflects an estimated payout of a number of shares based on the maximum level of achievement with respect to the applicable performance metrics, as Huntsman's performance through December 31, 2016 for the 2016 awards exceeded the target performance level.

(5)
The market value of unvested performance share units reported in this column is calculated by multiplying $19.08, the closing market price of Huntsman's stock on December 30, 2016, by the number of unvested performance share units as of December 31, 2016 based on the level of achievement with respect to the applicable performance metrics.

143


Table of Contents

Option Exercises and Stock Vested During 2016

              The following table presents information regarding the vesting of Huntsman restricted stock awards during 2016 for Mr. Turner. Mr. Turner did not exercise any Huntsman stock options during the 2016 year, and no Huntsman performance share units were eligible to vest during the 2016 year.

 
  Stock Awards(1)  
Name
  Number of Shares
Vested in 2016
(#)
  Value Realized
on Vesting
($)
 

Simon Turner

    19,197     173,961  

(1)
Amounts reflected in this table reflect the gross number of shares that vested in 2016. The following tabular disclosure provides information regarding the market value of the underlying shares on the vesting date and the number of shares that were withheld in connection with each transaction to satisfy tax obligations.
 
   
   
   
  Restricted Stock
Vested
  Shares Withheld
for Tax
Obligation
  Net Shares
Issued
 
Name
  Grant
Date
  Vest
Date
  Closing
Price on
Vest Date
  (#)   Value
Realized
  (#)   Value
Paid
  (#)   Market
Value
 

Simon Turner

    02/04/15     02/04/16   $ 9.41     4,978   $ 46,843     2,340   $ 22,019     2,638   $ 24,824  

    02/05/14     02/05/16   $ 8.94     6,283   $ 56,170     2,954   $ 26,409     3,329   $ 29,761  

    02/06/13     02/06/16   $ 8.94     7,936   $ 70,948     3,730     33,346     4,206   $ 37,602  

Total

                      19,197   $ 173,961     9,024   $ 81,774     10,173   $ 92,187  

Pension Benefits in 2016

              The table below sets forth information on the pension benefits for Mr. Turner under Huntsman's pension plans, each of which is more fully described in the narrative following the table. The amounts reported in the table below equal the present value of the accumulated benefit at December 31, 2016 for Mr. Turner under each plan based upon the assumptions described below.

Name
  Plan Name   Number of Years
of Credited
Service(1)
  Present Value of
Accumulated
Benefit(2)
  Payments During
Last Fiscal Year
 
 
   
  (#)
  ($)
  ($)
 

Simon Turner(3)

  Tioxide Pension Fund     26.833   $ 1,427,816      

  Huntsman Global Pension Scheme         $ 1,092,038      

  Huntsman Top-Up Payment         $ 7,403,046      

(1)
The number of years of service credited to Mr. Turner is determined using the same pension plan measurement date used for financial statement reporting purposes. These assumptions are discussed in note "18. Employee Benefit Plans" to Huntsman's consolidated financial statements included in its 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

(2)
The actuarial present value of the accumulated benefits is determined using the same pension plan measurement date and assumptions as used for financial reporting purposes. These assumptions are discussed in note "18. Employee Benefit Plans" to Huntsman's consolidated financial statements included in its 2016 Annual Report on Form 10-K. For purposes of performing these calculations, a normal retirement age of 60 was used for Mr. Turner. Benefit values reported in this table have been projected out to assume payment at the normal retirement age then have been discounted back to a present value as of December 31, 2016.

144


Table of Contents

(3)
During 2012, a top-up payment agreement was put in place that made up for benefits lost due to salary restrictions in the U.K. and provides benefits under the Huntsman Global Pension Scheme based on Mr. Turner's uncapped final pensionable salary.

              Huntsman sponsors retirement benefit plans in connection with its operations in the U.K. Mr. Turner participates in the Huntsman UK Pension Plan (a qualified defined contribution pension plan) with trailing participation in the nonqualified Huntsman Global Pension Scheme (a defined benefit plan) and the qualified Tioxide Pension Fund (a defined benefit plan) for all U.K. associates in the Pigments & Additives segment. In addition, Mr. Turner has a Huntsman top-up promise that is based on a payment difference between the final pensionable pay limitations in the Tioxide Pension Fund and Huntsman Global Pension Scheme, where Mr. Turner's pensionable pay is limited to (£150,600) $210,132 and his total pensionable salary (£373,550) $521,214. Mr. Turner became a member of the Huntsman UK Pension Plan in January 2011 after his benefits, along with other U.K. Pigments & Additives associates in the Tioxide Pension Fund, were closed to future service accrual.

              Mr. Turner participates in a defined benefit pension arrangement through the tax-qualified Tioxide Pension Fund for service with Huntsman prior to January 1, 2011. The Tioxide Pension Fund was a traditional defined benefit pension plan that provided benefit accruals based on final average earnings, with a typical accrual rate of 1/55th for senior managers and a normal retirement age of 60. Defined benefit pension arrangements for the Tioxide Pension Fund were closed for Pigments & Additives associates on December 31, 2010, and arrangements were shifted to participation in the defined contribution Huntsman UK Pension Plan, on January 1, 2011. The Huntsman UK Pension Plan provides a 3-for-1 matching formula whereby an associate can receive a company matching contribution of up to 15% of pay if the associate contributed 5% of pay. For five years following implantation of this plan, associates receive an additional company contribution through transition credits. For as long as associates remain with Huntsman, they retain a link between future pensionable salary growth and accrued service to the date of closure of the Tioxide Pension Fund. The Huntsman Global Pension Scheme is a non-registered defined benefit pension plan designed to restore benefits that cannot be provided in a registered plan due to pension or tax regulations or due to international assignments. During 2012, a top-up payment agreement was put in place to make up for benefits lost due to salary restrictions in the U.K. and provides benefits under the Huntsman Global Pension Scheme based on Mr. Turner's uncapped final salary. As of December 31, 2016, Mr. Turner had approximately 27 years of service in the U.K., and is fully vested in benefits from these plans.

Potential Payments Upon Termination or Change of Control

              As of December 31, 2016, Mr. Turner could have received compensation in connection with an involuntary termination of employment or a change of control pursuant to the terms of the following arrangements:

    the Huntsman Executive Severance Plan;

    the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan; and

    other existing plans and arrangements in which Huntsman's executive officers participate.

              Executive Severance Plan.     Through its Executive Severance Plan, Huntsman provides its executive officers, including its NEOs, with severance benefits in connection with a termination of an executive's employment by Huntsman without "Reasonable Cause" or by the executive for "Good Reason." Pursuant to the Huntsman Executive Severance Plan, Huntsman provides its executives with a lump sum severance payment equal to two times base salary in order to attract and retain the executive

145


Table of Contents

talent necessary for its business. We expect to evaluate the level of severance each year. As defined in the Huntsman Executive Severance Plan:

              "Reasonable Cause" means: (1) the grossly negligent, fraudulent, dishonest or willful violation of any law or the material violation of any of Huntsman's significant policies that materially and adversely affects it, or (2) the failure of the participant to substantially perform his duties.

              "Good Reason" means a voluntary termination of employment by the participant as a result of (1) a materially detrimental reduction or change to the job responsibilities or in the current base compensation of the Participant, or (2) within a period of 12 months following a Change of Control, changing the participant's principal place of work by more than 50 miles, in each case, which is not remedied by the Company within 30 days after receipt of notice.

              A "Change of Control" is defined pursuant to the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan and means the occurrence of any of the following:

    An acquisition by any person of 20% or more of the combined voting power of Huntsman's outstanding voting securities.

    The consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other transaction in which Huntsman's stockholders do not own, immediately thereafter, more than 20% or more of the combined voting power of the resulting entity in substantially the same proportion as their stock ownership prior to the transaction.

    The sale or disposition of all or substantially all of Huntsman's assets.

    A majority change in the incumbent directors of the Huntsman Board.

    An approval by the Huntsman Board or its stockholders of a complete or substantially complete liquidation or dissolution.

              A participant is not entitled to benefits under the Huntsman Executive Severance Plan if the participant is reemployed with an employer in Huntsman's controlled group, if the participant refuses to sign a waiver and release of claims in Huntsman's favor if requested, or if the participant is entitled to severance benefits under a separate agreement or plan maintained by Huntsman.

              As a citizen of the U.K., Mr. Turner is an entitled participant in his respective business severance plan. At the time of a termination, payout potential from the Huntsman Executive Severance Plan and Mr. Turner's U.K. business plan would be considered, then the plan generating the more generous payout would be used. Mr. Turner is entitled to 200% of his annual base pay and 12 months' notice upon termination. Accordingly, his potential severance payment would be 36 times base monthly salary upon termination. The respective U.K. business severance plans provide greater severance amounts than the Huntsman Executive Severance Plan for Mr. Turner in the event of a termination without "Reasonable Cause" or upon a termination by the executive for "Good Reason."

              Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan Awards.     Long-term equity incentive awards granted under the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan provide for accelerated vesting upon a change of control or certain other events, including certain terminations of employment or service, at the discretion of Huntsman's Compensation Committee. The performance share unit award agreements provide that, upon a termination of employment due to death or disability or upon the occurrence of a change of control (within the meaning of Section 409A of the Code), the Huntsman Compensation Committee may, in its discretion, waive any remaining restrictions on the performance share units, in whole or in part, and deem the applicable performance period to end immediately prior to the date of death, disability or the occurrence of the change of control, in which case the satisfaction of the applicable relative TSR performance metrics will be based upon actual performance as of the end of the revised performance period. Any such provision made by Huntsman's Compensation Committee could benefit all

146


Table of Contents

participants in the Huntsman Stock Incentive Plan, including the NEOs. If there is a Change of Control, Huntsman's Compensation Committee may, in its discretion, provide for:

    assumption by the successor company of an award, or the substitution thereof for similar options, rights or awards covering the stock of the successor company;

    acceleration of the vesting of all or any portion of an award;

    changing the period of time during which vested awards may be exercised (for example, but not by way of limitation, by requiring that unexercised, vested awards terminate upon consummation of the change of control);

    payment of substantially equivalent value in exchange for the cancellation of an award; and/or

    issuance of substitute awards of substantially equivalent value.

              Quantification of Potential Payments and Benefits.     The table below reflects the compensation that could have been payable to or on behalf of Mr. Turner upon an involuntary termination or a change of control. The amounts shown assume that such termination or change of control was effective as of December 31, 2016. All equity acceleration values have been calculated using the closing price of Huntsman's stock on December 30, 2016 of $19.08. The actual amounts Huntsman could have be required to disburse could only be determined at the time of the applicable circumstance.

Payment Type
  Simon
Turner
 

INVOLUNTARY TERMINATION—WITHOUT CAUSE OR FOR GOOD REASON

       

Cash Severance(1)

  $ 1,552,257  

Health & Welfare(2)

  $ 1,391  

Outplacement Services(3)

  $ 5,750  

TOTAL TERMINATION BENEFITS

       

CHANGE OF CONTROL

       

Accelerated Equity Awards(4)

  $ 1,946,808  

CHANGE OF CONTROL/ INVOLUNTARY TERMINATION WITHOUT CAUSE OR FOR GOOD REASON

       

Cash Severance

  $  

(1)
This amount is based on a total of 36 months (24 months plus 12 months of notice) of Mr. Turner's year-end pay and has been converted using an exchange rate as of February 29, 2016 of 1 GBP to 1.3935 USD (which is an internal date used to estimate pro forma elements of compensation).

(2)
In the case of an involuntary termination without Reasonable Cause or for Good Reason, entitlement is based on continued coverage for twelve months and is linked to the notice period.

(3)
Huntsman contracts with a third-party provider for 12 months of outplacement services. To the extent these services might be utilized, Huntsman expects the cost to it would be as set forth herein.

(4)
Any acceleration of vesting of long-term equity incentive awards held by Mr. Turner requires the approval of the Compensation Committee of the Huntsman Board of Directors, which Huntsman assumes for purposes of this table would have occurred on December 31, 2016. An acceleration of Mr. Turner's 43,325 unvested shares of

147


Table of Contents

    restricted stock would have an estimated value of $826,641 and 25,915 target unvested performance share units would have an estimated value of $494,458. In addition, an acceleration of Mr. Turner's 91,834 unvested options would have an estimated value of $625,709 on December 31, 2016.


Venator Materials PLC

Future Compensation and Incentive and Benefit Plans and Arrangements

Venator Materials 2017 Stock Incentive Plan

              We expect to adopt an omnibus equity compensation plan in connection with this offering. The expected terms of the LTIP are set forth below, but at the time of this filing we have not adopted this plan. The purpose of the LTIP is to provide incentives to our employees and consultants (and those of our subsidiaries) and to members of our Board who are not employees or consultants to devote their abilities and energies to our success through affording such individuals a means to acquire and maintain stock ownership or awards, the value of which is tied to the performance of our ordinary shares. The LTIP permits the grant of stock options, stock appreciation rights ("SARs"), restricted stock, phantom stock, performance awards, bonus stock, dividend equivalents, substitute awards, and other stock-based awards (collectively referred to as "Awards").

Administration

              The LTIP will be administered by a committee of our Board pursuant to its terms and all applicable state, federal or other rules or laws. However, our Board may also take any action designated to the committee, unless it is determined that administration of the LTIP by "outside directors" is necessary with respect to Awards intended to qualify as "performance-based compensation" under Section 162(m) of the Code ("Section 162(m)"). The LTIP administrator (the "Committee") has the sole discretion to determine the eligible employees, directors and consultants to whom Awards are granted under the LTIP and the manner in which such Awards will vest. Awards may be granted by the Committee to employees, directors and consultants in such amounts (measured in cash, ordinary shares or as otherwise designated) and at such times during the term of the LTIP as the Committee shall determine. Subject to applicable law and the terms of the LTIP, the Committee is authorized to interpret the LTIP, to establish, amend and rescind any rules and regulations relating to the LTIP, to delegate duties under the LTIP, to terminate, modify or amend the LTIP (except for certain amendments that require stockholder approval as described below), and to make any other determinations that it deems necessary or desirable for the administration of the LTIP. The Committee may correct any defect, supply any omission or reconcile any inconsistency in the LTIP in the manner and to the extent the Committee deems necessary or desirable.

              Notwithstanding anything within the LTIP to the contrary, to comply with applicable laws in countries other than the United States in which we or our affiliates operates or has employees, directors or other service providers, or to ensure that we comply with any applicable requirements of foreign securities exchanges, the Committee, in its sole discretion, shall have the power and authority to determine who is eligible to participate in the LTIP, modify the terms and conditions of awards, establish sub-plans with applicable foreign jurisdiction provisions, or take other actions deemed advisable to comply with foreign laws or securities exchange rules. The remaining description of the LTIP set forth below addresses the terms and conditions of the LTIP with respect to U.S.-based Award recipients, therefore an Award granted to an employee that is subject to foreign laws or regulations may differ from the descriptions set forth below or contained within the LTIP document.

148


Table of Contents

Eligibility

              Consistent with certain provisions of Section 162(m) and the accompanying regulations, the employees eligible to receive compensation must be set forth in the plan and approved by our stockholders. The employees eligible to receive Awards under the LTIP are our employees and those of our subsidiaries. Members of our Board who are not employees or consultants of us or our subsidiaries are eligible to receive Awards and individuals who provide consulting, advisory or other similar services to us or our subsidiaries are also eligible to receive Awards. Eligible employees, directors or consultants who are designated by the Committee to receive an Award under the LTIP are referred to as "Participants."

Individual Limits on Awards

              Consistent with certain provisions of Section 162(m) and accompanying regulations, restrictions on the maximum number of shares that may be granted to a Participant in a specified period and restrictions on the maximum amount of cash compensation payable pursuant to an Award under the LTIP to a Participant must be provided for in the plan and approved by our stockholders. Accordingly, no Participant may receive share-denominated Awards during a calendar year with respect to more than 3,000,000 shares of our ordinary shares. For dollar-denominated Awards, the maximum aggregate dollar amount that may be granted to any Participant in any calendar year is limited to $15,000,000.

Number of Shares Subject to the LTIP

              The number of ordinary shares reserved for issuance under the LTIP is            shares, subject to certain adjustments as provided in the LTIP. In addition, if an Award is surrendered, exchanged, forfeited, settled in cash or otherwise lapses, expires, terminates, or is cancelled without the actual delivery of the shares, including (a) shares forfeited with respect to restricted stock, and (b) the number of shares withheld or surrendered in payment of any exercise or purchase price of an Award or taxes related to an Award, then the shares subject to those Awards will again be available for issuance under the LTIP, unless an applicable law or regulation prevents such re-issuance.

Source of Shares

              Ordinary shares issued under the LTIP may come from authorized but unissued shares of our ordinary shares, from treasury stock held by the company or from previously issued shares of ordinary shares reacquired by us, including shares purchased on the open market.

Stock Options

              Stock options to purchase one or more shares of our ordinary shares may be granted under the LTIP. The Committee may determine to grant stock options that are either incentive stock options governed by Section 422 of the Code, or stock options that are not intended to meet these requirements (called "nonstatutory options"). The Committee will determine the specific terms and conditions of any stock option at the time of grant. The exercise price of any stock option will not be less than 100% of the fair market value of our ordinary shares on the date of the grant (other than in limited situations pertaining to substitute Awards, as noted below), and in the case of an incentive stock option granted to an eligible employee that owns more than 10% of our ordinary shares, the exercise price will not be less than 110% percent of the fair market value of our ordinary shares on the date of grant. Stock options may be exercised by paying the exercise price in cash, through the delivery of irrevocable instructions to a broker to sell shares obtained upon the exercise of the stock option and to deliver to us an amount out of the proceeds of the sale equal to the aggregate exercise price for the shares being purchased, withholding (netting) shares from the exercised Award or such other methods

149


Table of Contents

as the Committee has determined to be appropriate. The term for a stock option may not exceed 10 years.

Stock Appreciation Rights

              The Committee may grant SARs independent of or in connection with a stock option. The exercise price per share of an SAR will be an amount determined by the Committee. However, SARs must generally have an exercise price not less than the fair market value of the ordinary shares on the date the SAR is granted. Generally, each SAR will entitle a Participant upon exercise to an amount equal to (i) the excess of (a) the fair market value of one ordinary share on the exercise date over (b) the exercise price, times (ii) the number of shares of ordinary shares covered by the SAR. Payment shall be made in ordinary shares or in cash, or partly in ordinary shares and partly in cash, as determined by the Committee. The term of an SAR may not exceed 10 years.

Restricted Stock

              Restricted stock may be granted under the LTIP, which means shares of our ordinary shares are granted to an individual subject to transfer limitations, a risk of forfeiture and other restrictions imposed by the Committee in its discretion. During the restricted period, the Participant may not sell, assign or otherwise dispose of the restricted stock, and any stock certificate will contain an appropriate legend noting the restrictions upon such ordinary shares until such time as all restrictions have been removed. Subject to acceleration of vesting upon a Permitted Waiver Event (as defined in the LTIP), a Participant will forfeit all restricted stock (and any dividends or distributions accumulated thereon that are subject to restrictions) upon his or her termination of service prior to the satisfaction of the vesting restrictions placed upon the Award. Restrictions may lapse at such times and under such circumstances as determined by the Committee. During the restricted period, the holder will have rights as a stockholder, including the right to vote the ordinary shares subject to the Award. Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award agreement, any dividends or distributions on the restricted stock during the restricted period shall be held by us and be subject to the same "vesting" terms as applicable to the restricted stock.

Phantom Shares

              The LTIP allows the Committee to grant phantom shares, which are notional shares that entitle the Participant to receive at the end of a specified deferral period (which may or may not be coterminous to the vesting period applicable to the Award) either shares of our ordinary shares or cash equal to the then fair market value of our ordinary shares, or any combination of shares and cash, as determined by the Committee. The Committee may also grant "restricted stock unit" awards pursuant to the phantom share sections of the LTIP. The terms and conditions attached to any phantom share award will be determined by the Committee, including the vesting period and whether vesting is based upon the attainment of any performance objectives or subject to acceleration upon a Permitted Waiver Event. While the Participant shall not have the rights of stock ownership during the applicable restricted period, the Committee may establish a bookkeeping account ("DER Account") for the Participant that is credited with dividend equivalents with respect to dividends paid on shares of our ordinary shares during the vesting period. The DER Account may or may not be credited with interest, as provided by the Committee, and will vest or be forfeited at the same time as the related phantom shares vest or are forfeited, unless otherwise provided in the applicable Award agreement.

Bonus Stock

              Bonus stock awards may be granted to eligible individuals. Each bonus stock award will constitute a transfer of unrestricted shares of ordinary shares on terms and conditions determined by the Committee.

150


Table of Contents

Dividend Equivalents

              Dividend equivalents may be granted to eligible individuals, entitling the Participant to receive cash, ordinary shares, other Awards or other property equal in value to dividends paid with respect to a specified number of shares of ordinary shares, or other periodic payments at the discretion of the Committee. Dividend equivalents may be awarded on a freestanding basis or in connection with another Award. The Committee may provide that dividend equivalents will be payable or distributed when accrued, deferred until a later payment date or deemed reinvested in additional ordinary shares, Awards, or other investment vehicles. The Committee will specify any restrictions on transferability and risks of forfeiture imposed upon dividend equivalents.

Substitute Awards

              Individuals who become eligible to participate in the LTIP following a merger, consolidation or other acquisition by our company may be entitled to receive substitute Awards in exchange for similar awards that the individual may have held prior to the applicable merger, consolidation or other acquisition. If the substitute Award is in the form of a stock option or SAR, these Awards may be granted with an exercise price that is less than the fair market value per share on the replacement date, to the extent necessary to preserve the value of the original award for that individual.

Other Stock-Based Awards

              Other stock-based awards may be granted that consist of a right denominated in or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on or related to shares of our ordinary shares. In the discretion of the Committee, other stock-based awards may be subject to such vesting and other terms as the Committee may establish, including performance goals. Cash awards may be granted as an element of or a supplement to any other stock-based awards permitted under the LTIP.

Performance Awards

              The LTIP provides for the grant of performance awards, which are (i) rights to receive a grant or to exercise or receive vesting or settlement of any Award subject to performance goals specified by the Committee, and (ii) dollar-denominated Awards granted by the Committee where the attainment of one or more performance goals during a specified performance period will be measured for purposes of determining a Participant's right to, and the amount of payment of, the Award. Performance awards made to Covered Employees may be designed to qualify as "performance-based compensation" under Section 162(m). See "—Performance-Based Compensation" below. The Committee will determine both the performance goals and the performance period that will be associated with a performance award, as well as the method to be used in calculating the amount, if any, of the performance award at the end of the performance period. In connection with performance awards, the Committee may establish a performance award pool, which will be an unfunded pool, for the purpose of measuring performance, with the amount of such pool based on the achievement of performance goals specified by the Committee, including performance goals based on the business criteria described below. The Committee shall also determine whether performance awards will be paid in cash, our ordinary shares, or a combination of both cash and shares. The Committee may exercise its discretion to reduce or increase the amounts payable under any performance award, except for any performance award intended to qualify as "performance-based compensation" under Section 162(m), in which case discretion may be used to decrease but not increase the amount of the Award.

Performance-Based Compensation

              If the Committee determines that an eligible person is or is likely to be a Covered Employee under Section 162(m) or the regulations thereunder and the contemplated Award is intended to qualify

151


Table of Contents

as "performance-based compensation" under such section, then the grant, exercise, vesting and/or settlement of such Award will be contingent upon the achievement of one or more pre-established performance goals based on one or more of the business criteria set forth below. Consistent with certain provisions of Section 162(m) and accompanying regulations, the business criteria on which performance goals may be based must be provided for in the plan and approved by our stockholders. However, even if stockholders approve the business criteria set forth below and the other material plan terms of the LTIP for purposes of the "performance-based compensation" exception, the Committee may determine to pay compensation that is not "performance-based compensation" under Section 162(m) and that is not deductible by reason thereof. With respect to Awards intended to constitute "performance-based compensation," performance goals will be designed to be objective, "substantially uncertain" of achievement at the date of grant and that will otherwise meet the requirements of Section 162(m) and the regulations thereunder. Performance goals may vary among Award recipients or among Awards to the same recipient. Performance goals will be established not later than 90 days after the beginning of any performance period applicable to such Awards, or at such other date as may be required or permitted for "performance-based compensation" under Section 162(m).

              One or more of the following business criteria for the company, on a consolidated basis, and/or for specified subsidiaries, divisions, businesses or geographical units of the company (except with respect to stock price and earnings per share criteria), will be used by the Committee in establishing performance goals: (A) earnings per share; (B) revenues; (C) cash flow; (D) cash flow returns; (E) free cash flow; (F) operating cash flow; (G) net cash flow; (H) working capital; (I) return on net assets; (J) return on assets; (K) return on investment; (L) return on capital; (M) return on equity; (N) economic value added; (O) gross margin; (P) contribution margin; (Q) operating margin; (R) net income; (S) pretax earnings; (T) pretax earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA"); (U) pretax earnings after interest expense and before incentives, service fees, and extraordinary or special items; (V) operating income; (W) total stockholder return; (X) share price; (Y) book value; (Z) enterprise value; (AA) debt reduction; (BB) costs or expenses; (CC) objective safety measures (including recordable incident rates and lost time incident rates); (DD) objective environmental measures (including gas releases); (EE) sales; (FF) market share; (GG) objective productivity measures; (HH) revenue or earnings per employee; (II) objective measures related to implementation or completion of significant projects or processes; (JJ) significant and objective strategic business criteria, consisting of one or more objectives based on meeting specified market penetration, geographic business expansion, customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, human resources management, supervision of litigation, information technology, and goals relating to acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and similar transactions, and budget comparisons; and (KK) significant and objective individual criteria, including any of the foregoing performance goals, the implementation of policies and plans, the negotiation of transactions, the development of long-term business goals, formation of joint ventures, research or development collaborations, and the completion of other corporation transactions. To the extent consistent with Section 162(m) with respect to Awards intended to constitute "performance-based compensation," the Committee (i) shall appropriately adjust any evaluation of performance under a performance goal to eliminate the effects of charges for restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items and all items of gain, loss or expense determined to be extraordinary or unusual in nature or related to the disposal of a segment of a business or related to a change in accounting principle, all as determined in accordance with applicable accounting provisions, as well as the cumulative effect of accounting changes, in each case as determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles or identified in the Company's financial statements or notes to the financial statements; and (ii) may appropriately adjust any evaluation of performance under a performance goal to exclude any of the following that occurs during the applicable performance period: (a) asset write-downs, (b) litigation, claims, judgments or settlements, (c) the effect of changes in tax law or other such laws or provisions affecting reported

152


Table of Contents

results, (d) accruals for reorganization and restructuring programs, or (e) accruals of any amounts for payment under the LTIP or any other compensation arrangement maintained by the Company. The performance measures may be absolute or measured relative to one or more peer companies or public indexes

Minimum Vesting Requirements

              Awards that are options, SARs or other Awards for which a Participant pays (or the value or amount payable under the Award is reduced by) an amount equal to or exceeding the fair market value of the stock determined as of the grant date are subject to a one-year minimum vesting or forfeiture restriction period. This one-year minimum vesting or forfeiture restriction period does not apply to the grant of any such Awards with respect to an aggregate number of shares that does not exceed 5% of the total shares reserved for issuance under the LTIP.

Recapitalization Adjustments

              In the event of any "equity restructuring" event (such as a stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock split or similar event) with respect to our ordinary shares, the number of shares of ordinary shares with respect which Awards may be granted, the number of shares subject to outstanding Awards, the exercise price with respect to outstanding Awards and the individual grant limits with respect to share-denominated Awards shall be equitably adjusted to reflect such event.

Change of Control

              Unless the applicable Award agreement (including any severance agreement or similar arrangement) provides otherwise or an Award is replaced or continued by the successor in connection with a "change of control" (as defined below), upon a change of control (i) Awards solely dependent on the satisfaction of a service obligation shall become fully vested and (ii) Awards dependent in any part on the satisfaction of performance objectives shall vest with performance determined based on actual performance achieved as of the date of the change of control or on a pro-rated basis based on target performance. A "change of control" means the occurrence of any of the following:

    An acquisition by any person of 20% or more of the combined voting power of our outstanding voting securities;

    The consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other transaction in which our shareholders do not own, immediately thereafter, more than 20% or more of the combined voting power of the resulting entity in substantially the same proportion as their share ownership prior to the transaction;

    The sale or disposition of all or substantially all of our assets;

    A majority change in the incumbent directors of the Board;

    An approval by the Board or our shareholders of a complete or substantially complete liquidation or dissolution; or

    Any of the following: (1) a court-sanctioned compromise or arrangement between us and our shareholders under section 899 of the U.K. Companies Act 2006 that results in a change of control; (2) any person obtaining control of us as a result of making a general offer to either acquire all of the issued ordinary shares that will give that person or persons control of us, or any person acquiring all of the shares in us which are of the same class as ordinary shares; (3) any person becoming bound or entitled under Sections 979 to 982 or Sections 983 to 985 of the U.K. Companies Act 2006 to acquire all of the shares that are of the same class with ordinary shares.

153


Table of Contents

Unusual Transactions or Events; Change of Control

              In the event of any distribution, recapitalization, reorganization, merger, spin-off, combination, repurchase, exchange of securities, or other corporate transaction or event or any other unusual or nonrecurring transactions or events (including without limitation a "change of control" as defined in the LTIP), or of changes in applicable laws, regulations or accounting principles, the Committee may provide, in general, for (i) the termination of an Award, with or without exchange for a cash payment or other rights or property of substantially equivalent value, (ii) the acceleration of vesting, exercisability or payment with respect to all or any portion of an Award, (iii) the issuance of substitute Awards by the successor or survivor entity, or (v) other adjustments in the terms of an Award.

Discontinuance or Amendment of the LTIP; No Repricing

              Our Board or the Committee may amend or discontinue the LTIP in any respect at any time, but no amendment may materially diminish any of the rights of a Participant under any Awards previously granted without his or her consent, except as may be necessary to comply with applicable laws. In addition, no amendment may, without the approval of the stockholders, (i) increase the number of shares available for Awards, (ii) enlarge the class of individuals eligible to receive Awards, (iii) materially increase the benefits available under the LTIP or (iv) reduce the exercise price of an outstanding stock option or SAR or cancel or exchange outstanding stock options or SARs for cash or other Awards or for stock options or SARs with lower exercise prices than the original stock option or SAR, and stockholder approval will also be required with respect to other amendments to the extent required by applicable law or listing requirements. The Committee may, except as otherwise provided in the LTIP, waive any conditions or rights under, or amend, alter, suspend or terminate any Award previously granted and any Award agreement related thereto, provided, that without the consent of the affected Participant, no Committee action may materially and adversely affect the rights of the Participant, except as may be necessary to comply with applicable laws.

Venator Materials Executive Severance Plan

              We anticipate that we will adopt a severance plan in connection with this offering to provide severance and change of control benefits to certain executive officers in connection with a termination of an executive's employment by us without "Reasonable Cause," or by the executive for "Good Reason." We have not yet adopted such a plan, but through the Venator Materials Executive Severance Plan (the "Executive Severance Plan") we expect to provide our executive officers, including our NEOs, a lump sum severance payment equal to two times base salary in order to attract and retain the executive talent necessary for our business. The level of severance will be evaluated each year. Pursuant to the Executive Severance Plan:

    "Reasonable Cause" means: (1) the grossly negligent, fraudulent, dishonest or willful violation of any law or the material violation of any of our significant policies that materially and adversely affects us, or (2) the failure of the participant to substantially perform his duties.

    "Good Reason" means a voluntary termination of employment by the participant as a result of (1) a materially detrimental reduction or change to the job responsibilities or in the current base compensation of the Participant, or (2) within a period of 12 months following a Change of Control, changing the participant's principal place of work by more than 50 miles, in each case, which is not remedied by the Company within 30 days after receipt of notice.

    A "Change of Control" has the same meaning as such term within the LTIP.

              The Executive Severance Plan also provides the continuation of medical benefits for U.S. participants for up to two years following termination (which will be in the form of a lump sum cash

154


Table of Contents

payment equal to the Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act, or COBRA, premium at the time of departure multiplied by the severance period multiplied by 150%), and outplacement services for a period of one year.

              A participant is not entitled to benefits under the Executive Severance Plan if the participant is reemployed with an employer in our controlled group, if the participant refuses to sign a waiver and release of claims in our favor if requested, or if the participant is entitled to severance benefits under a separate agreement or plan maintained by us.

Named Executive Officer Compensation

              Beginning July 1, 2017, the base salary of our NEOs will be as follows, pro-rated for the 2017 calendar year and expressed in U.S. dollars: Mr. Turner, $850,000; Mr. Ogden, $500,000; Mr. Stolle, $430,000; Mr. Maiter, $402,907 (£310,000 converted to U.S. dollars assuming a rate of 1:1.3); and Mr. Buberl, $375,134. We have also determined that the target bonus opportunities for the NEOs with respect to the 2017 year shall be 100% of base salary for Mr. Turner, 70% of base salary for Messrs. Ogden, Stolle and Maiter, and 40% for Mr. Buberl. Our NEOs will participate in the Executive Severance Plan described above, and certain employees may receive relocation agreements (as described below), but we do not expect to enter into individual employment agreements or severance agreements with our NEOs. Other than the Huntsman equity award conversion described under the heading "Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company—Employee Matters Agreement," at the time of this filing we have not made decisions regarding the equity compensation awards, if any, that the NEOs may receive pursuant to the LTIP following the IPO.

              In connection with this offering, we entered into agreements (the "Relocation Agreements") with Messrs. Ogden and Stolle to address their relocation from the Woodlands, Texas to Wynyard, U.K. This relocation assignment for each of the executives is scheduled to begin on August 1, 2017 and is expected to last for approximately three years. Under the Relocation Agreements, each executive's initial base salary will be adjusted to account for cost of living and taxation differences between the U.S. and the U.K. and will be subject to the normal salary review process. Each of Messrs. Ogden and Stolle will also be eligible to receive the following benefits during the relocation assignment: an international location allowance of 5% of gross annual salary; tax return preparation assistance; assistance in transferring personal affects to and from the U.K.; a relocation allowance of 10% of gross annual salary at the beginning of the relocation assignment and a similar 10% relocation allowance upon return to the U.S. (which will be forfeited if the executive resigns before completing the relocation assignment); paid travel for the executives (and for their family members who are relocating to the U.K.) to the U.S. up to three times per year for Mr. Stolle and one time for Mr. Ogden; and paid travel for three round trip tickets to the U.K. for any of the executives' children residing in the U.S. who are under the age of 26 and attending college full-time. While in the U.K., each executive will be provided with housing and the use of two company cars, and we will reimburse educational expenses for Mr. Ogden's school-aged accompanying children. Each Relocation Agreement may be terminated by either party by providing no less than three months prior written notice. Additionally, we may terminate either executive's relocation assignment immediately for any of the following reasons: (i) we determine that the executive is unable to perform the essential functions of his jobs, (ii) the executive violates our Business Conduct Guidelines and serious disciplinary action results, or (iii) by any reason of personal illness, the executive is unable to carry out his duties for an time in excess of six months during any period of twelve months.

155


Table of Contents


DIRECTOR COMPENSATION

Non-Employee Director Compensation Program

              In connection with this offering, we expect to adopt a compensation program for our non-employee directors (the "Non-Employee Director Compensation Program"). Our non-employee directors will be entitled to receive compensation for services they provide to us consisting of retainers and equity compensation as described below.

              Annual Retainers.     Each non-employee director will be eligible to receive the following for their service on our board of directors pursuant to the Non-Employee Director Compensation Program:

    An annual retainer of $60,000;

    An additional annual retainer of $25,000 for the chairman of the board of directors;

    Additional annual retainers of $20,000 for the non-employee director serving as chair of the audit committee, $15,000 for the non-employee director serving as chair of the compensation committee (once formed), and $10,000 for the non-employee director serving as chair of any other committee;

    Additional annual retainers of $15,000 for the non-employee director members of the audit committee, $10,000 for the non-employee director members of the compensation committee (once formed), and $5,000 for the non-employee director members of any other committee (the chair of each committee will be eligible to receive the additional retainer applicable to committee members in addition to the additional retainer applicable to the committee chair);

              Equity-Based Compensation.     In addition to cash compensation, our non-employee directors will be eligible to receive annual equity-based compensation with an aggregate grant date value equal to $120,000. We expect that the equity awards will generally be fully vested on the date of grant. The equity awards granted to our non-employee directors will be subject to the terms and conditions of the LTIP and individual award agreements pursuant to which such awards are granted.

              Share Ownership Guidelines.     Our non-employee directors will be subject to certain share ownership guidelines and share holding requirements under the Non-Employee Director Compensation Program, which must be achieved within five years following the date on which the non-employee director's service on our board of directors begins. We expect that our non-employee directors will be required to hold a number of our ordinary shares with a value equal to five times their applicable annual cash retainer.

              Voluntary Deferred Compensation Plan.     In connection with this offering we expect to adopt a voluntary deferred compensation plan in which our non-employee directors will be eligible to participate, the terms of which have not yet been determined.

156


Table of Contents


CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

Our Relationship with Huntsman

              Before this offering, all of our outstanding ordinary shares were indirectly owned by Huntsman. All of the ordinary shares being sold in this offering are being offered by Huntsman International and HHN, wholly-owned subsidiaries of Huntsman. After completion of this offering, Huntsman, through HHN, will own approximately            % of our outstanding ordinary shares, or approximately            % if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full. We are not selling any ordinary shares under this prospectus and we will not receive any of the proceeds from this offering.

              Huntsman currently intends to monetize its retained ownership stake in Venator following this offering. Subject to prevailing market and other conditions (including the terms of Huntsman's lock-up agreement), this future monetization may be effected in multiple follow-on capital market or block transactions that permit an orderly distribution of Huntsman's retained shares.

              On May 22, 2017, Huntsman announced that it had entered into a definitive agreement to combine with Clariant, a specialty chemicals company headquartered in Switzerland, in an all-stock merger. The combined company will be named HuntsmanClariant. Legacy Huntsman and Clariant shareholders are expected to own 48% and 52% of the combined company, respectively. The board of directors of the combined company is expected to have equal representation from the legacy Huntsman and Clariant boards. The merger is expected to close by year-end 2017, subject to Huntsman and Clariant shareholder approvals, regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions. The merger agreement permits Huntsman to proceed with our initial public offering and we currently expect to complete the initial public offering prior to the closing of the merger.

              Prior to and in preparation for the completion of this offering, Huntsman and its subsidiaries expect to complete an internal reorganization, which we refer to in this prospectus as the "internal reorganization," in order to transfer to us the entities, assets, liabilities and obligations that we will hold following the separation of our business from Huntsman's other businesses. Such internal reorganization may take the form of asset transfers, dividends, contributions and similar transactions, and may involve the formation of new subsidiaries in U.S. and non-U.S. jurisdictions to own and operate the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business in such jurisdictions. Among other things and subject to limited exceptions, the internal reorganization will result in us owning, directly or indirectly, the operations comprising, and the entities that conduct, the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business.

              In addition, we and Huntsman will enter into a separation agreement to effect the separation of our business from Huntsman following this offering. The separation agreement includes provisions to address the impact, if any, of Huntsman's pending lawsuit against Rockwood, and the insurance proceeds and reconstruction costs relating to the January 2017 Pori facility fire, which is described in further detail in "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business." For a description of the separation agreement, see "—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company" and the historical and pro forma financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus.

              We will also enter into ancillary agreements with Huntsman that will govern certain interactions, including with respect to employee matters, tax matters, transition services and registration rights. In addition, in anticipation of this offering, we intend to enter into the Financings. We refer to the internal reorganization, the separation transactions, including the entry into and effectiveness of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, and the Financings, including the use of the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility therefrom to repay intercompany debt owed to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses, as the "separation." For a description of the separation agreement and ancillary agreements, see "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company"

157


Table of Contents

and the historical and pro forma financial statements and the notes thereto included elsewhere in this prospectus. The terms of these agreements may be more or less favorable to us than if they had been negotiated with unaffiliated third parties. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Relationship with Huntsman." For a description of the Financings, see "—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company—Financing Arrangements."

Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company

              This section provides a summary description of agreements expected to be entered into between Huntsman and us relating to this offering (including our separation from Huntsman) and our relationship with Huntsman after this offering. This description of the agreements between Huntsman and us is a summary and, with respect to each such agreement, is qualified by reference to the terms of the agreement, a form of each of which will be filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part. We urge you to read the full text of these agreements. We will enter into these agreements with Huntsman immediately prior to the completion of this offering; accordingly, we will enter into these agreements with Huntsman in the context of our relationship as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman. Huntsman will determine the terms of these agreements, which may be more or less favorable to us than if they had been negotiated with unaffiliated third parties. See "Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Relationship with Huntsman."

Separation Agreement

              The separation agreement will govern the terms of the separation of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business from Huntsman's other business. Generally, the separation agreement includes the agreements of Huntsman and us on the steps to be taken to complete the separation, including the assets and rights to be transferred, liabilities to be assumed or retained, contracts to be assigned and related matters. Subject to the receipt of required governmental and other consents and approvals, in order to accomplish the separation, the separation agreement provides for Huntsman and us to transfer specified assets and liabilities between the two companies to separate the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business from Huntsman's remaining businesses. As a result of this transfer, we will own all assets exclusively related to the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business, including the assets reflected on our balance sheet as of March 31, 2017, other than assets disposed of after such date, and certain other assets related to the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business specifically allocated to us. We will also be responsible for all liabilities, including environmental liabilities, to the extent relating to the operation or ownership of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business (including liabilities related to discontinued businesses that were part of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business prior to being discontinued) or any of the assets allocated to us in the separation, as well as all liabilities arising out of, relating to or resulting from the Financings, or reflected as liabilities on our balance sheet as of March 31, 2017, subject to the discharge of any such liabilities after March 31, 2017. Huntsman will retain all other assets and liabilities, including assets and liabilities related to discontinued businesses (other than those businesses that were a part of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business prior to being discontinued).

              Unless otherwise provided in the separation agreement or any of the ancillary agreements, we expect that all assets will be transferred on an "as is, where is" basis.

              The separation agreement requires Huntsman and us to endeavor to obtain consents, approvals and amendments required to novate or assign the assets and liabilities that are to be transferred pursuant to the separation agreement as soon as reasonably practicable. Generally, if the transfer of any assets or liabilities requires a consent that will not be obtained before this offering, or if any assets or liabilities are erroneously transferred or if any assets or liabilities are erroneously not transferred, each party will hold the relevant assets or liabilities for the intended party's use and benefit (at the intended party's expense) until they can be transferred to the intended party.

158


Table of Contents

              The separation agreement also governs the treatment of all aspects relating to indemnification (other than for tax matters) and insurance, and generally provides for cross-indemnities principally designed to place financial responsibility for the obligations and liabilities of our business with us and financial responsibility for the obligations and liabilities of the remaining Huntsman business with Huntsman. The separation agreement also establishes procedures for handling claims subject to indemnification and related matters. We and Huntsman will also generally release each other from all claims arising prior to this offering other than claims arising under the transaction agreements, including the indemnification provisions described above.

              The separation agreement also provides that we will have the benefit of the property and business interruption insurance proceeds related to covered repair costs or covered lost profits incurred following this offering related to the January 2017 fire at our TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland which is currently not fully operational. We have established a process with our insurer to receive timely advance payments for the reconstruction of the facility as well as lost profits. We expect to have pre-funded cash on our balance sheet resulting from these advance insurance payments. As of March 31, 2017, the amount of deferred income relating to these advance insurance payments was $22 million. We have agreed with our insurer to have monthly meetings to review relevant site activities and interim claims as well as regular progress payments. We expect the Pori facility to restart in phases as follows: approximately 20% capacity in the second quarter of 2017; approximately 40% capacity in the second quarter of 2018; and full capacity around the end of 2018.

              In February 2017, Huntsman filed suit against the legacy owner and certain former executives of Rockwood, primarily related to the failure of new technology that Huntsman acquired in the Rockwood acquisition that was to be implemented at the new Augusta, Georgia, facility and subsequently at other facilities. Huntsman is seeking various forms of legal remedy, including compensatory damages, punitive damages, expectation damages, consequential damages and restitution. We are not party to the suit. The separation agreement includes provisions addressing such matters, including Huntsman retaining all rights to the claims against the defendants in such suit.

              The separation agreement also includes certain covenants, including covenants by us regarding:

    disclosure of information about our financial controls to Huntsman for so long as Huntsman is required to consolidate our results of operations and financial position or to account for its investment in us under the equity method of accounting;

    delivery of quarterly and annual financial information to Huntsman for so long as Huntsman is required to consolidate our results of operations and financial position or to account for its investment in us under the equity method of accounting; and

    the requirement that we obtain Huntsman's consent to incur additional indebtedness until Huntsman ceases to hold in excess of 50% of our outstanding ordinary shares.

Transition Services Agreement

              In order to help ensure an orderly transition, we will enter into a transition services agreement pursuant to which Huntsman will, for a limited time following the completion of this offering, provide us with certain services and functions that the we have historically shared, including administrative, payroll, human resources, data processing, EHS, financial audit support, financial transaction support, marketing support and other support services, information technology systems and various other corporate services. The services to be provided cover all necessary services that were provided by Huntsman to us prior to the effective date of the transition services agreement. Huntsman may also provide us with additional services that we and Huntsman may identify from time to time in the future. While the services provided by Huntsman will support our businesses, we retain the right to control and direct all of our operations.

159


Table of Contents

              In general, the services will begin following the completion of this offering and cover a period not expected to exceed 24 months. We may terminate individual services early as we become able to operate our businesses without those services.

              Huntsman will agree to perform the services with the same general degree of care, at the same general level and at the same general degree of accuracy and responsiveness, as when performed within Huntsman's organization prior to the separation. If any of the services do not meet this standard, Huntsman will use commercially reasonable efforts to re-perform any deficient services as soon as reasonably practicable, at no additional cost to us. We and Huntsman have agreed to cooperate in connection with the performance of the services, and Huntsman has agreed to use commercially reasonable efforts, at our expense, to obtain any third-party consents required for the performance of the services.

              The services will be provided by Huntsman without representation or warranty of any kind. Huntsman will have no liability with respect to its furnishing of the services except to the extent occasioned by its willful misconduct.

              As part of the transition services agreement, we will also be providing limited services to Huntsman for a transition period. These services were previously provided by our businesses to Huntsman and will be provided on the same basis as the services provided by Huntsman under the transition services agreement.

Tax Matters Agreement

              The tax matters agreement will govern the respective rights, responsibilities, and obligations of Huntsman and us with respect to tax liabilities and benefits, tax attributes, the preparation and filing of tax returns, the control of audits and other tax proceedings, and other matters regarding taxes.

              In general, pursuant to the tax matters agreement:

    We will be responsible for any taxes due with respect to tax returns that include only us and/or our subsidiaries. Huntsman will be responsible for any taxes due with respect to tax returns that include only Huntsman and/or its subsidiaries (excluding us and our subsidiaries). We will be responsible for, and indemnify Huntsman for, taxes attributable to the operations of our businesses prior to the internal reorganization and this offering reflected on a tax return filed by Hunstman.

    We and Huntsman will agree to cooperate in the preparation of tax returns, refund claims and conducting tax audits concerning matters covered by the agreement.

    We and Huntsman will be assigned responsibilities for administrative matters, such as the filing of tax returns, payment of taxes due, retention of records and conduct of audits, examinations, and similar proceedings. Huntsman will generally control tax returns that include both its businesses and our businesses and any disputes relating to such tax returns.

    Huntsman will be responsible for any sales, use, transfer, registration, documentary, stamp or similar taxes applicable to, or resulting from, the internal reorganization or the sale of our shares in connection with this offering.

              In addition, for U.S. federal income tax purposes Huntsman will recognize gain as a result of the internal restructuring if, and to the extent, the fair market value of the assets associated with our U.S. business exceeds the basis of such assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes at the time of the internal restructuring. To the extent any such gain is recognized, the basis of the assets associated with our U.S. business will be increased. Pursuant to the tax matters agreement, we will be required to pay to Huntsman in the future any actual U.S. federal income savings we recognize in tax years following the offering through December 31, 2028 as a result of any such basis increase. It is currently estimated (based on a value of our U.S. business derived from a price for our stock equal to the midpoint of the

160


Table of Contents

price range set forth on the cover of this prospectus) that the aggregate future payments required to be made pursuant to this provision of the tax matters agreement will not exceed $             million (based on current tax rates). We will benefit from any increased tax basis in our assets over periods ranging from 5 to 15 years. The actual amount of any gain recognized and any corresponding basis increase will not be known until the tax return for the year that includes the internal reorganization is complete. Moreover, any subsequent adjustment asserted by U.S. taxing authorities could increase the amount of gain recognized and any corresponding basis increase, and could result in a higher liability for us under the tax matters agreement.

Employee Matters Agreement

              The employee matters agreement will govern Huntsman's and our compensation and employee benefit obligations with respect to the current and former employees of each company, and generally allocates liabilities and responsibilities relating to employee compensation and benefit plans and programs. The employee matters agreement generally provides for the following:

    the transfer of all employees who, following this offering, will work for the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business ("transferred employees") to us or one of our subsidiaries;

    the retention by Huntsman of all employee and benefit plan-related liabilities and obligations not relating to current or former employees of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives business;

    the establishment by us and our subsidiaries of new employee benefit plans for purposes of providing benefits to transferred employees;

    the cessation of active participation by transferred employees under all benefit plans sponsored by Huntsman;

    the conversion or adjustment of Huntsman equity and equity-based awards held by transferred employees;

    that this offering is not intended to constitute a "change in control" or similar transaction under Huntsman or our benefit and compensation plans;

    the crediting of transferred employees for their service with Huntsman for purposes of determining eligibility, vesting and benefit levels under our benefit plans; and

    general cooperation and sharing of information between us and Huntsman on matters relating to the transfers of employees and employee benefit plan- related liabilities and obligations.

              In addition, the employee matters agreement sets forth the treatment of outstanding Huntsman equity compensation awards in connection with this offering:

Huntsman Options

              With respect to option awards that were granted to transferred employees prior to this offering under any of Huntsman's equity plans (the "Huntsman Options"), the employee matters agreement provides that the Huntsman Options that are vested but not yet exercised at the effective time of our separation from Huntsman will continue to be exercisable for Huntsman stock, subject to the same terms and conditions set forth in the applicable Huntsman equity plan and the individual award agreements covering such vested Huntsman Options. Huntsman Options that are unvested at the effective time of the separation shall be cancelled and the rights of transferred employees under such cancelled Huntsman Options will be converted into the right to receive a stock option award granted pursuant under the LTIP (the "Venator Options"). The number of Venator Options to be granted to each such applicable transferred employee will be determined by multiplying the number of Huntsman

161


Table of Contents

stock subject to the Huntsman Option that is being cancelled by a ratio determined by dividing (i) the volume weighted average price of Huntsman common stock for a ten (10) trading day period, starting with the opening of trading on the eleventh (11 th ) trading day prior to the effective time of the separation to the closing of trading on the last trading day prior to the effective time of the separation by (ii) the volume weighted average price of our ordinary shares for a ten (10) trading day period, starting with the opening of trading on the first (1 st ) trading day following the effective time of the separation to the closing of trading on the tenth (10 th ) trading day following the effective time of the separation (the "Equity Award Ratio"). The exercise price of each new Venator option shall be determined by dividing the exercise price of the original Huntsman Option by the Equity Award Ratio, rounded up to the nearest whole cent. The Equity Award Ratio is used to determine the relationship of Huntsman shares prior to the IPO to Venator shares following the IPO for purposes of the conversion of outstanding equity awards. The use of a 10-day volume-weighted average price (VWAP) for both the Huntsman and Venator stock prices immediately prior to and following the Venator IPO is intended to ensure the value of converted awards is fair and equitable by mitigating the potential impact of the transaction. The Venator Options will be subject to the same terms and conditions as were applicable to the corresponding Huntsman Options, including vesting, and will be governed by the Venator Materials 2017 Stock Incentive Plan described within the "Executive Compensation" section of this prospectus.

Huntsman Phantom Shares

              With respect to phantom shares that were granted to transferred employees prior to this offering under any of the Huntsman equity plans (the "Huntsman Phantom Shares") that are outstanding and unvested immediately prior to the effective time of the separation, such Huntsman Phantom Shares shall be cancelled and converted into the right to receive a restricted stock unit granted pursuant to the LTIP ("Venator Restricted Stock Units"). The number of Venator Restricted Stock Units that will be granted to each applicable transferred employee will be determined by multiplying the number of Huntsman stock subject to the Huntsman Phantom Shares by the Equity Award Ratio. The Venator Restricted Stock Units will be subject to the same terms and conditions as were applicable to the corresponding Huntsman Phantom Shares, including vesting. As applicable and if required by the laws and regulations of the United Kingdom, Venator Restricted Stock Units may be accompanied by a nil or nominal payment or be settled in cash.

Huntsman Restricted Stock

              With respect to shares of restricted stock that were granted to transferred employees prior to this offering under any of the Huntsman equity plans (the "Huntsman Restricted Stock") that are outstanding and unvested immediately prior to the effective time of the separation, such Huntsman Restricted Stock shall be cancelled and converted into the right to receive Venator Restricted Stock Units. The number of Venator Restricted Stock Units that will be granted to each applicable transferred employee will be determined by multiplying the number of Huntsman stock subject to the Huntsman Restricted Stock by the Equity Award Ratio. The Venator Restricted Stock Units will be subject to the same terms and conditions as were applicable to the corresponding Huntsman Restricted Stock award, including vesting. As applicable and if required by the laws and regulations of the United Kingdom, Venator Restricted Stock Units may be accompanied by a nil or nominal payment or be settled in cash.

Huntsman Restricted Stock Units

              With respect to restricted stock units that were granted to transferred employees prior to this offering under any of Huntsman's equity plans (the "Huntsman Restricted Stock Units") that are outstanding and unvested immediately prior to the effective time of the separation, such Huntsman Restricted Stock Units shall be cancelled and converted into the right to receive Venator Restricted

162


Table of Contents

Stock Units. The number of Venator Restricted Stock Units that will be granted to each applicable transferred employee will be determined by multiplying the number of Huntsman stock subject to the Huntsman Restricted Stock Units by the Equity Award Ratio; provided, however, that if the Huntsman Restricted Stock Units were subject to performance conditions immediately prior to the effective time of the separation, the number of Huntsman Restricted Stock Units will be adjusted based on actual performance achieved immediate prior to the effective time and the number of Venator Restricted Stock Units will be based on this adjusted number of Huntsman Restricted Stock Units. The Venator Restricted Stock Units will be subject to the terms and conditions that were applicable to the corresponding Huntsman Restricted Stock Units, including time-based vesting, but not including any performance conditions. As applicable and if required by the laws and regulations of the United Kingdom, Venator Restricted Stock Units may be accompanied by a nil or nominal payment or be settled in cash.

Accrued Dividends

              If any Huntsman equity-based incentive award has accrued dividends or dividend equivalent rights that have not been paid or otherwise settled immediately prior to the effective time of the settlement, we will keep a bookkeeping account or accounts (the "Dividend Accounts") for each applicable transferred employee equal to the amount of such dividends or dividend equivalent rights. The amounts in the Dividend Accounts will remain subject to the same terms and conditions, including vesting and forfeiture, that were applicable to the dividends and dividend equivalent rights under the applicable Huntsman equity plan. Immediately following the time or times at which such Dividend Accounts become eligible to be settled, Huntsman will transfer to us the cash amount of such Dividend Accounts.

The Exchange Act; Code Sections 162(m) and 409A

              By approving the employee matters agreement, each of our board of directors and the board of directors of Huntsman intend to exempt from the short-swing profit recovery provisions of Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act by reason of the application of Rule 16b-3 thereunder, all acquisitions and dispositions of equity incentive awards by the directors and officers of both us and Huntsman, and the respective boards of directors also intend expressly to approve, in respect of any equity-based award, the use of any method for the payment of an exercise price and the satisfaction of any applicable tax withholding (specifically including the actual or constructive tendering of shares in payment of an exercise price and the withholding of award shares from delivery in satisfaction of applicable tax withholding requirements) to the extent such method is permitted under the applicable Huntsman equity plan, the LTIP and award agreement.

Form S-8

              Prior to, or as reasonably practicable following, the effective time of the separation, we will prepare and file with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-8 (or other appropriate form) registering under the Securities Act, the offering and sale of a number of our ordinary shares that is equal, at a minimum, to the number of shares subject to the awards to be granted to transferred employees pursuant to the terms of the employee matters agreement and we will use commercially reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement to remain effective as long as any such awards remain outstanding.

Registration Rights Agreement

              In connection with this offering, we will enter into a Registration Rights Agreement with the selling shareholders. Pursuant to the Registration Rights Agreement, we will agree to register the sale of our ordinary shares owned by the selling shareholders under certain circumstances.

163


Table of Contents

Demand Rights

              At any time after the 180 day lock-up period, as described in "Underwriting" and subject to the limitations set forth below, the selling shareholders (or their permitted transferees) will have the right to require us by written notice to prepare and file a registration statement registering the offer and sale of a certain number of the ordinary shares they own. Generally, we are required to provide notice of the request to certain other holders of our ordinary shares who may, in certain circumstances, participate in the registration. Subject to certain exceptions, we will not be obligated to effect a demand registration within 90 days after the closing of any underwritten offering of ordinary shares. Further, we are not obligated to effect more than a total of eight demand registrations.

              We will also not be obligated to effect any demand registration in which the anticipated aggregate offering price for our ordinary shares included in such offering is less than $25 million. Once we are eligible to effect a registration on Form S-3, any such demand registration may be for a shelf registration statement. We will be required to use reasonable best efforts to maintain the effectiveness of any such registration statement until the earlier of (i) 180 days (or five years in the case of a shelf registration statement) after the effective date thereof or (ii) the date on which all ordinary shares covered by such registration statement have been sold (subject to certain extensions).

              In addition, the selling shareholders (or their permitted transferees) will have the right to require us, subject to certain limitations, to effect a distribution of any or all of the ordinary shares they own by means of an underwritten offering.

Piggyback Rights

              Subject to certain exceptions, if at any time we propose to register an offering of ordinary shares or conduct an underwritten offering, whether or not for our own account, then we must notify the selling shareholders (or their permitted transferees) of such proposal to allow them to include a specified number of the ordinary shares they own in that registration statement or underwritten offering, as applicable.

Conditions and Limitations; Expenses

              These registration rights will be subject to certain conditions and limitations, including the right of the underwriters to limit the number of shares to be included in a registration and our right to delay or withdraw a registration statement under certain circumstances. We will generally pay all registration and offering expenses of the selling shareholders, other than underwriting discounts and commissions, in connection with our obligations under the Registration Rights Agreement, regardless of whether a registration statement is filed or becomes effective.

Financing Arrangements

              In connection with this offering, we intend to enter into new financing arrangements and expect to incur up to $750 million of new debt, which will include (i) $375 million of the senior notes and (ii) borrowings of $375 million under term loan facility. On June 29, 2017, the subsidiary issuers announced the pricing of the senior notes in a private placement to qualified institutional buyers in reliance on Rule 144A under the Securities Act and outside the United States to certain non-U.S. persons in compliance with Regulation S under the Securities Act. The sale of the senior notes is expected to close July 14, 2017, subject to customary conditions, and the proceeds will be funded into escrow to be released upon the closing of this offering. In addition to the term loan facility and the senior notes, we also expect to enter into a $300 million ABL facility. The senior credit facilities are expected to close concurrently with the closing of this offering. For additional information regarding the senior notes and the senior credit facilities, see "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations—Financing Arrangements."

164


Table of Contents

              We intend to use the net proceeds of the senior notes offering and the term loan facility to repay intercompany debt we owe to Huntsman, to pay a dividend to Huntsman and to pay related fees and expenses. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Venator had intercompany debt outstanding to Huntsman of $894 million and $882 million, respectively. Prior to, or concurrently with, the closing of this offering, all of our outstanding debt with Huntsman will be repaid, capitalized or otherwise eliminated.

Other Related Party Transactions

              In addition to the related party transactions described in "—Arrangements Between Huntsman and Our Company" above, this section discusses other transactions and relationships with related persons during the past three fiscal years. As a current subsidiary of Huntsman, we engage in related party transactions with Huntsman. Those transactions are described in more detail in the notes to the accompanying combined financial statements.

Sales to and Purchases from Unconsolidated Affiliates

              We enter into transactions in the normal course of our business with parties under common ownership. Sales of raw materials to our LPC joint venture with Kronos as part of a sourcing arrangement were $67 million, $80 million and $108 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Proceeds from this arrangement are recorded as a reduction of cost of goods sold in our combined statements of operations. Purchases of finished goods from LPC were $158 million, $163 million and $194 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Sales by us to other unconsolidated affiliates of Huntsman were $60 million, $60 million and $75 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

Related Party Financing

              We have historically received financing from Huntsman International and its subsidiaries, which are related parties.

Cash Pooling Program

              We have historically addressed cash flow needs by participating in a cash pooling program. The cash pooling program is an intercompany borrowing arrangement designed to reduce our dependence on external short-term borrowing. The cash pool provides for the participating subsidiaries of Huntsman to loan or borrow funds daily from the cash pool. We record these transactions as either amounts receivable from affiliates or amounts payable to affiliates. Interest income is earned if we are a net lender to the cash pool and paid if we are a net borrower from the cash pool based on a variable interest rate determined from time to time by Huntsman. Following this offering, we will no longer participate in Huntsman's cash pooling program.

              See note "14. Related Party Financing" to our combined financial statements.

A/R Programs

              Certain legal entities comprising the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments participate in the A/R Programs sponsored by Huntsman. Under the A/R Programs, these entities sell certain of their trade receivables to Huntsman International. Huntsman grants an undivided interest in these receivables to a special purpose entity, which serves as security for the issuance of debt of Huntsman. These entities continue to service the securitized receivables. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Huntsman had $106 million and $110 million, respectively, of net receivables in the A/R Program and reflected on its balance sheet associated with the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives segments. The entities' allocated losses on the A/R Programs for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were $5 million, $3 million and $4 million, respectively. The allocation of losses on sale

165


Table of Contents

of accounts receivable is based upon the pro-rata portion of total receivables sold into the securitization program as well as other program and interest expenses associated with the A/R Programs. On April 21, 2017, Huntsman International amended its accounts receivable securitization facilities, which among other things removed existing receivables sold into the program by the Pigments and Additives business. In addition, after April 21, 2017 receivables generated by the Pigments and Additives legal entities will no longer participate in the Huntsman A/R Program sponsored by Huntsman.

Policies and Procedures with Respect to Approval of Related Party Transactions

              Prior to this offering, we will adopt a policy for approval of Related Party Transactions. Pursuant to this policy, we expect that our audit committee will review all material Related Party Transactions. A "Related Party Transaction" is a transaction, arrangement or relationship in which we or any of our subsidiaries was, is or will be a participant, the amount of which involved exceeds $120,000, and in which any Related Person had, has or will have a direct or indirect material interest. A "Related Person" means:

    any person who is, or at any time during the applicable period was, one of our executive officers or directors;

    any person who is known by us to be the beneficial owner of more than 5% of our ordinary shares;

    any immediate family member of any of the foregoing persons, which means any child, stepchild, parent, stepparent, spouse, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law or sister-in-law of a director, executive officer or a beneficial owner of more than 5% of our ordinary shares, and any person (other than a tenant or employee) sharing the household of such director, executive officer or beneficial owner of more than 5% of our ordinary shares; and

    any firm, corporation or other entity in which any of the foregoing persons is a partner or principal or in a similar position or in which such person has a 10% or greater beneficial ownership interest.

166


Table of Contents


SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF MANAGEMENT AND SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

              As of the date of this prospectus, all of our outstanding ordinary shares are owned beneficially by Huntsman. Huntsman International LLC and Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V., wholly-owned subsidiaries of Huntsman, are offering            and            of our ordinary shares, respectively, in this offering. The following table sets forth information with respect to the anticipated beneficial ownership of our ordinary shares by:

    each shareholder that will beneficially own more than 5% of our outstanding ordinary shares following this offering;

    each person who is expected to serve as a director upon completion of this offering;

    each person who is expected to serve as an executive officer upon completion of this offering; and

    all persons who are expected to serve as directors or executive officers upon completion of this offering as a group.

              To our knowledge, except as indicated in the footnotes to this table or as provided by applicable community property laws, the persons named in the table have sole voting and investment power with respect to the ordinary shares indicated. The selling shareholders may be deemed to be underwriters with respect to the ordinary shares that they will sell in this offering. This table assumes that the underwriters' option to purchase additional ordinary shares is not exercised.

 
  Beneficial Ownership  
 
  Prior to this
Offering
  Following this
Offering
 
Name and Address of Beneficial Owners(1)
  Ordinary
shares
  %   Ordinary
shares
  %  

5% or greater shareholders

                       

Huntsman International LLC(2)

                       

Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V.(3)

                       

Directors, Director Nominees and Named Executive Officers

                       

Peter R. Huntsman

                       

Sir Robert J. Margetts

                       

Douglas D. Anderson

                       

Daniele Ferrari

                       

Simon Turner

                       

Kurt Ogden

                       

Russ Stolle

                       

Jan Buberl

                       

Mahomed Maiter

                       

All directors and executive officers as a group (        persons)

                       

(1)
Unless otherwise indicated, the address of each owner is c/o Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park, Stockton-On-Tees, TS22 5FD, United Kingdom.

(2)
Huntsman International LLC is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman, and Huntsman may, therefore, be deemed to beneficially own ordinary shares in us held by Huntsman International LLC.

(3)
Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V. is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman and may, therefore, be deemed to beneficially own ordinary shares in us held by Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V.

167


Table of Contents

DESCRIPTION OF SHARE CAPITAL

General

              The following is a description of the material terms of our share capital as provided in our amended and restated articles of association, as is anticipated to be in effect upon the completion of this offering. The summaries and descriptions below do not purport to be complete statements of the relevant provisions. For a complete description, we refer you to, and the following summaries and descriptions are qualified in their entirety by reference to our amended and restated articles of association, a copy of which will be filed as an exhibit to the registration statement of which this prospectus forms a part. The summaries and descriptions below do not purport to be complete statements of the Companies Act 2006. Upon completion of the offering, we will have only one class of shares outstanding, which will be ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share. Our board of directors will be authorized to allot additional ordinary shares up to a maximum nominal amount of $            , reserved for future issuances approved by our board of directors.

              Upon the completion of this offering, we will be a stand-alone public company and Huntsman, through HHN, will own        % of our outstanding ordinary shares, or        % if the underwriters exercise their option to purchase additional ordinary shares in full.

Ordinary Shares

Dividend Rights

              Subject to the provisions of English law and any preferences that may apply to preferred ordinary shares outstanding at the time, holders of outstanding ordinary shares will be entitled to receive dividends out of assets legally available at the times and in the amounts as our board of directors may determine from time to time. All dividends are declared and paid in proportions based on the amounts paid up on the shares in respect of which the dividend is paid. Any dividend unclaimed after a period of 12 years from the date such dividend was declared shall, if the board of directors so resolves, be forfeited and shall revert to us. In addition, the payment by our board of directors of any unclaimed dividend, interest or other sum payable on or in respect of an ordinary share into a separate account shall not constitute us as a trustee in respect thereof. For further information regarding the payment of dividends under English law, see "—Differences in Corporate Law—Distributions and Dividends."

Voting Rights

              Each outstanding ordinary share will be entitled to one vote on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. Holders of ordinary shares shall have no cumulative voting rights. Subject to any rights or restrictions attached to any shares on a poll every member present in person or by proxy shall have one vote for every share of which he is the holder. None of our shareholders will be entitled to vote at any general meeting or at any separate class meeting in respect of any share unless all calls or other sums payable in respect of that share have been paid.

Preemptive Rights

              There are no rights of preemption under our articles of association in respect of transfers of issued ordinary shares. In certain circumstances, our shareholders may have statutory preemption rights under the Companies Act 2006 in respect of the allotment of new shares as described in "—Differences in Corporate Law—Preemptive Rights." These statutory pre-emption rights would require us to offer new shares for allotment to existing shareholders on a pro rata basis before allotting them to other persons, unless shareholders dis-apply such rights by a special resolution for a period of not more than five years at a shareholders' meeting. These pre-emption rights will have been dis-applied by our shareholders prior to completion of the offering and we intend to propose equivalent resolutions in the

168


Table of Contents

future once the initial period of dis-application has expired. In any circumstances where the pre-emption rights have not been dis-applied, the procedure for the exercise of such statutory pre-emption rights would be set out in the documentation by which such ordinary shares would be offered to our shareholders.

Conversion or Redemption Rights

              Our ordinary shares will be neither convertible nor redeemable, provided that our board of directors has the right to issue additional classes of shares in the Company (including redeemable shares) on such terms and conditions, and with such rights attached, as it may determine.

Liquidation Rights

              Holders of ordinary shares are entitled to participate in any distribution of assets upon a liquidation after payment of all debts and other liabilities and subject to the prior rights of any holders of preferred ordinary shares then outstanding. A liquidator may, with the sanction of a special resolution and any other sanction required by the Insolvency Act 1986, divide among the members in specie the whole or any part of the assets of the Company and may, for that purpose, value any assets and determine how the division shall be carried out as between the members or different classes of members.

Variation of Rights

              The rights or privileges attached to any class of shares may (unless otherwise provided by the terms of the issue of the shares of that class) be varied or abrogated by (i) the written consent of the holders of 3 / 4 in nominal value of the issued shares of that class or (ii) a special resolution passed at a general meeting of the shareholders of that class.

Capital Calls

              Our board of directors has the authority to make calls upon the shareholders in respect of any money unpaid on their shares and each shareholder shall pay to us as required by such notice the amount called on its shares. If a call remains unpaid after it has become due and payable, and the 14 clear days' notice provided by our board of directors has not been complied with, any share in respect of which such notice was given may be forfeited by a resolution of our board of directors. None of our ordinary shares to be sold in this offering will be subject to a capital call.

Transfer of Shares

              Our share register is maintained by our registrar, Computershare Trust Company, N.A. Registration in this share register is determinative of share ownership. A shareholder who holds our shares through DTC is not the holder of record of such shares. Instead, the depositary (for example, Cede & Co., as nominee for DTC) or other nominee is the holder of record of such shares. Accordingly, a transfer of shares from a person who holds such shares through DTC to a person who also holds such shares through DTC will not be registered in our official share register, as the depositary or other nominee will remain the record holder of such shares. The directors may decline to register a transfer:

    of a share that is not fully paid, provided that the refusal does not disturb the market in those shares, or on which we have a lien, it being noted that the directors will not exercise this power capriciously or otherwise than in accordance with their fiduciary duties as directors of the Company;

    of a share that is not duly stamped (if required);

169


Table of Contents

    of a share that is not accompanied by the certificate of the share to which it relates or such other evidence reasonably required by the directors to show the right of the transferor to make the transfer;

    of a default share where the holder has failed to provide the required details to us under "—Other English Law Considerations—Disclosure of Interests in Shares," subject to certain exceptions;

    in respect of more than one class of share; or

    where, in the case of a transfer to joint holders of a share, the number of joint holders to whom the share is to be transferred exceeds four.

Limitations on Ownership

              Under English law and our articles of association, there are no limitations on the right of non-residents of the U.K. or owners who are not citizens of the U.K. to hold or vote our ordinary shares.

Preferred Ordinary Shares

              Our board of directors may, from time to time, following an ordinary resolution of the ordinary shareholders granting authority to the directors to allot shares and a special resolution of the ordinary shareholders to amend the articles of association (and dis-apply pre-emption rights, if not already dis-applied), direct the issuance of preferred ordinary shares in series and may, at the time of issuance, determine the designations, powers, preferences, privileges, and relative participating, optional or special rights as well as the qualifications, limitations or restrictions thereof, including dividend rights, conversion rights, voting rights, terms of redemption and liquidation preferences, any or all of which may be greater than the rights of the ordinary shares. Satisfaction of any dividend preferences of outstanding preferred ordinary shares would reduce the amount of funds available for the payment of dividends on ordinary shares. Holders of preferred ordinary shares may be entitled to receive a preference payment in the event of our liquidation before any payment is made to the holders of ordinary shares. Upon consummation of this offering, there will be no preferred ordinary shares outstanding, and we have no present intention to issue any preferred ordinary shares.

Articles of Association and English Law Considerations

Directors

      Number

              Our articles of association provide for a minimum number and a maximum number of directors, and that otherwise the number of directors shall be as determined by our board of directors from time to time. Directors may be appointed by any ordinary resolution of shareholders or by the board. Each director elected shall hold office until his or her successor is elected or until his or her earlier resignation or removal in accordance with the articles of association.

      Appointment and Retirement of Directors

              The directors shall have power to appoint any person who is willing to act to be a director, either to fill a vacancy or as an additional director, provided that person is not prohibited to act as a director under English law and so long as the total number of directors shall not exceed nine.

              Shareholders may by ordinary resolution elect any person who is willing to act as a director either to fill a vacancy or as an addition to the existing directors, provided that person is not prohibited to act as a director under English law.

170


Table of Contents

              Directors may be appointed for a fixed term, following which that director shall retire.

              If the number of directors is less than the minimum prescribed by the articles of association, the remaining director may act only for the purposes of appointing additional directors. A director appointed in this manner shall hold office until the next annual general meeting elects someone in his place or, if it does not do so until the end of that meeting.

      Indemnity of Directors

              Under our articles of association, and subject to the provisions of the Companies Act 2006, each of our directors is entitled to be indemnified by us against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred by such director or officer in the execution and discharge of his or her duties or in relation to those duties. The Companies Act 2006 renders void an indemnity for a director against any liability attaching to him or her in connection with any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust in relation to the company of which he or she is a director, as described in "—Differences in Corporate Law—Liability of Directors and Officers."

Shareholders' Meetings

              Each year, we will hold a general meeting of our shareholders in addition to any other meetings in that year, and will specify the meeting as such in the notice convening it. The annual general meeting will be held at such time and place as the directors, the chairman, the chief executive officer, the president or the secretary may appoint. The arrangements for the calling of general meetings are described in "—Differences in Corporate Law—Notice of General Meetings." No business shall be transacted at any general meeting unless a quorum is present when the meeting proceeds to business, but the absence of a quorum shall not preclude the appointment of a chairman, which appointment shall not be treated as part of the business of a meeting. Our articles of association will provide that the necessary quorum at any general meeting of shareholders (or adjournment thereof) shall be the holders of ordinary shares who together represent at least the majority of the voting rights of all the holders of ordinary shares entitled to vote, present in person or by proxy, at such meeting.

Requisitioning Shareholder Meetings

              Subject to certain conditions being satisfied, shareholders holding at least 5% of the paid-up capital of the company carrying voting rights at general meetings can require the directors to call a general meeting. If any shareholder requests, in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006, us to (a) call a general meeting for the purposes of bringing a resolution before the meeting, or (b) give notice of a resolution to be proposed at a general meeting, such request must (in addition to any other statutory requirements and other requirements set forth in our articles of association):

    set forth the name and address of the requesting person and equivalent details of any person associated with it or him (in the manner contemplated by the Articles), together with details of all interests held by it or him (and their associated persons) in us;

    if the request relates to any business the member proposes to bring before the meeting, set forth a brief description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting, the reasons for conducting such business at the meeting, the text of the proposal (including the complete text of any proposed resolutions) and, in the case of any proposal to amend the Articles, the complete text of the proposed amendment;

    set forth, as to each person (if any) whom the shareholder proposes to nominate for appointment or reappointment to the board of directors all information that would be required to be disclosed by us in connection with the election of directors, and such other

171


Table of Contents

      information as we may require to determine the eligibility of such proposed nominee for appointment to the board.

Other English Law Considerations

      Mandatory Purchases and Acquisitions

              Pursuant to sections 979 to 982 of the Companies Act 2006, where a takeover offer has been made for us and the offeror has, by virtue of acceptances of the offer, acquired or unconditionally contracted to acquire not less than 90% of the voting rights carried by the shares to which the offer relates, the offeror may give notice to the holder of any shares to which the offer relates that the offeror has not acquired or unconditionally contracted to acquire that it desires to acquire those shares on the same terms as the general offer.

              If a takeover offer is structured as a scheme of arrangement pursuant to Part 26 of the Companies Act 2006, the scheme, and therefore takeover, would need to be approved by a majority in number representing 75% in value of the shareholders of class of shareholders voting, whether in person or by proxy. If approved, the scheme, and therefore takeover, would be binding on 100% of the shareholders.

      U.K. City Code on Takeovers and Mergers

              Based upon our current and intended plans for our directors and management, for the purposes of the Takeover Code, we will be considered to have our place of central management and control outside the U.K., the Channel Islands or the Isle of Man. Therefore, the Takeover Code should not apply to us. It is possible that in the future circumstances could change that may cause the Takeover Code to apply to us. The Takeover Code provides a framework within which takeovers of companies subject to it are conducted. In particular, the Takeover Code contains certain rules in respect of mandatory offers. Under Rule 9 of the Takeover Code, if a person:

    acquires an interest in our shares that, when taken together with shares in which persons acting in concert with such person are interested, carries 30% or more of the voting rights of our shares; or

    who, together with persons acting in concert with such person, is interested in shares that in the aggregate carry not less than 30% and not more than 50% of the voting rights in the company acquires additional interests in shares that increase the percentage of shares carrying voting rights in which that person is interested,

the acquirer, and, depending on the circumstances, its concert parties, would be required (except with the consent of the Takeover Panel) to make a cash offer for our outstanding shares at a price not less than the highest price paid for any interests in the shares by the acquirer or its concert parties during the previous 12 months.

      Disclosure of Interest in Shares

              Section 793 of the Companies Act gives us the power to require persons whom we know have, or whom we have reasonable cause to believe have, or within the previous three years have had, any ownership interest in any of our shares, (the "default shares"), to disclose prescribed particulars of those shares. For this purpose, default shares includes any of our shares allotted or issued after the date of the Section 793 notice in respect of those shares. Failure to provide the information requested within the prescribed period after the date of sending the notice will result in restrictions being imposed on the default shares and sanctions being imposed against the holder of the default shares as provided within the Companies Act.

172


Table of Contents

              Under our articles of association, we will also withdraw certain voting rights of default shares if the relevant holder of default shares has failed to provide the information requested within the prescribed period after the date of sending the notice, depending on the level of the relevant shareholding (and unless our board of directors decides otherwise).

              Under English law, dividends and distributions may only be made from distributable profits. "Distributable profits" generally means accumulated realized profits, so far as not previously utilized by distribution or capitalization, less accumulated realized losses, so far as not previously written off in a reduction or reorganization of capital, duly made. This would include reserves created by way of a court-approved reduction of capital. For further information regarding the payment of dividends under English law, see "—Differences in Corporate Law—Distributions and Dividends."

      Purchase of Own Shares

              Under English law, a public limited company may purchase its own shares only out of the distributable profits of the company or the proceeds of a new issue of shares made for the purpose of financing the purchase. A limited company may not purchase its own shares if as a result of the purchase there would no longer be any issued shares of the company other than redeemable shares or shares held as treasury shares. Subject to the foregoing, because the NYSE is not a "recognized investment exchange" under the Companies Act 2006, we may purchase our own fully paid shares only pursuant to a purchase contract authorized by ordinary resolution of the holders of our ordinary shares before the purchase takes place. Any authority will not be effective if any shareholder from whom we propose to purchase shares votes on the resolution and the resolution would not have been passed if such shareholder had not done so. The resolution authorizing the purchase must specify a date, not being later than five years after the passing of the resolution, on which the authority to purchase is to expire.

Anti-Takeover Provisions

              Certain provisions in our articles of association are intended to have the effect of delaying or preventing a change in control or changes in our management. For example, our articles of association will include provisions that establish an advance notice procedure for shareholder approvals to be brought before an annual meeting of our shareholders, including proposed nominations of persons for election to our board of directors. U.K. law also prohibits the passing of written shareholder resolutions by public companies. These provisions, alone or together, could delay or prevent hostile takeovers and changes in control or changes in our management, even if these events would be beneficial for our shareholders.

              In addition, our articles of association will provide that, in general, from and after the first date on which Huntsman ceases to beneficially own at least 15% of our outstanding voting shares, we may not engage in a business combination with an interested shareholder for a period of three years after the time of the transaction in which the person became an interested shareholder.

              The prohibition on business combinations with interested shareholders does not apply in some cases, including if:

    our board of directors, prior to the time of the transaction in which the person became an interested shareholder, approves (1) the business combination or (2) the transaction in which the shareholder becomes an interested shareholder;

    upon consummation of the transaction that resulted in the shareholder becoming an interested shareholder, the interested shareholder owned at least 85% of our voting shares outstanding at the time the transaction commenced; or

173


Table of Contents

    the board of directors and the holders of at least two-thirds of our outstanding voting shares, excluding shares owned by the interested shareholder, approve the business combination on or after the time of the transaction in which the person became an interested shareholder.

              As defined in our articles of association, an interested shareholder for the purposes of these provisions generally includes any person who, together with that person's affiliates or associates, (1) owns 15% or more of our issued shares or (2) is an affiliate or associate of the company and owned 15% or more of our issued shares at any time within the previous three years.

              In addition, it is possible that in the future, circumstances could change that may cause the Takeover Code to apply to us. Please see "—U.K. City Code on Takeovers and Mergers."

Differences in Corporate Law

               Certain provisions of the Companies Act 2006 differ from laws applicable to U.S. corporations and their shareholders. Set forth below is a summary of certain differences between the provisions of the Companies Act 2006 applicable to us and the Delaware General Corporation Law relating to shareholders' rights and protections. This summary is not intended to be a complete discussion of the respective rights and it is qualified in its entirety by reference to Delaware law and English law.

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Number of Directors   Under the Companies Act 2006, a public limited company must have at least two directors and the number of directors may be fixed by or in the manner provided in a company's articles of association. Our articles of association provide that the maximum number of directors is nine.   Under Delaware law, a corporation must have at least one director. The number of directors of a corporation is fixed by, or in the manner provided in, the bylaws, unless the certificate of incorporation fixes the number of directors, in which case a change in the number of directors must be made by amendment of the certificate of incorporation. Delaware law does not contain specific provisions requiring a majority of independent directors.

174


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Removal of Directors   Under the Companies Act 2006, shareholders may remove a director without cause by an ordinary resolution (which is passed by a simple majority of those voting in person or by proxy at a general meeting) irrespective of any provisions of any service contract the director has with the company, provided that 28 clear days' notice of the resolution is given to the company and its shareholders and certain other procedural requirements under the Companies Act 2006 are followed (such as allowing the director to make representations against his or her removal either at the meeting or in writing).   Under Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation, directors may be removed from office, with or without cause, by a majority stockholder vote, except:

(i) in the case of a corporation whose board is classified, stockholders may effect such removal only for cause; and

(ii) in the case of a corporation having cumulative voting, if less than the entire board is to be removed, no director can be removed without cause if the votes cast against such director's removal would be sufficient to elect such director if then cumulatively voted at an election of the entire board, or, if there are classes of directors, at an election of the class of directors of which such director is a part.


Vacancies on the Board of Directors

 

Under English law, the procedure by which directors (other than a company's initial directors) are appointed is generally set out in a company's articles of association, provided that where two or more persons are appointed as directors of a public limited company by resolution of the shareholders, resolutions appointing each director must be voted on individually.

 

Under Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation or bylaws, vacancies on a corporation's board of directors, including those caused by an increase in the number of directors, may be filled by a majority of the remaining directors, although less than a quorum, or by a sole remaining director.

175


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Shareholder Action by Written Consent   A public company can only pass a shareholders' resolution by way of a vote taken at a meeting of its members. Accordingly, public companies cannot pass a written resolution by sanction of its members, and the relevant approval must be obtained by the company in a duly convened and held general meeting.   Under Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation or bylaws, any action required or permitted to be taken at a meeting of stockholders may be taken without a meeting if a written consent to the action is signed by stockholders holding at least a majority of the voting power. If a different proportion of voting power is required for an action at a meeting, then that proportion of written consents is also required.

Annual General Meeting

 

Under the Companies Act 2006, a public limited company must hold an annual general meeting in the six-month period following the company's annual accounting reference date.

 

Unless directors are elected by written consent in lieu of an annual meeting, an annual meeting of stockholders must be held for the election of directors on a date and at a time designated by or in the manner provided in the by-laws.


 


 


 


 


Stockholders may, unless the certificate of incorporation otherwise provides, act by written consent to elect directors; provided, however, that, if such consent is less than unanimous, such action by written consent may be in lieu of holding an annual meeting only if all of the directorships to which directors could be elected at an annual meeting held at the effective time of such action are vacant and are filled by such action. Any other proper business may be transacted at the annual meeting.

176


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
        If there is a failure to hold the annual meeting or to take action by written consent to elect directors in lieu of an annual meeting for a period of 30 days after the date designated for the annual meeting, or if no date has been designated, for a period of 13 months after the latest to occur of the organization of the corporation, its last annual meeting or the last action by written consent to elect directors in lieu of an annual meeting, the Delaware Court of Chancery may order a meeting to be held upon the application of any stockholder or director.

General Meeting

 

Under the Companies Act 2006, a general meeting of the shareholders of a public limited company may be called by the directors.

Shareholders holding at least 5% of the paid-up capital of the company carrying voting rights at general meetings can require the directors to call a general meeting.


 

Under Delaware law, special meetings of the stockholders may be called by the board of directors or by such person or persons as may be authorized by the certificate of incorporation or by the bylaws.

177


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Notice of General Meetings   Under the Companies Act 2006, subject to a company's articles of association providing for a longer period, 21 clear days' notice must be given for an annual general meeting and any resolutions to be proposed at the meeting. Subject to a company's articles of association providing for a longer period, at least 14 clear days' notice is required for any other general meeting. In addition, certain matters (such as the removal of directors or auditors) require special notice, which is at least 28 clear days' notice. The shareholders of a company may in all cases consent to a shorter notice period, the proportion of shareholders' consent required being 100% of those entitled to attend and vote in the case of an annual general meeting and, in the case of any other general meeting, a majority in number of the members having a right to attend and vote at the meeting, being a majority who together hold not less than 95% in nominal value of the shares giving a right to attend and vote at the meeting.   Under Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation or bylaws or under other portions of Delaware law, written notice of any meeting of the stockholders must be given to each stockholder entitled to vote at the meeting not less than 10 nor more than 60 days before the date of the meeting and must specify the place, if any, date, hour, means of remote communications, if any, by which stockholders and proxy holders may be deemed to be present in person and vote at such meeting, the record date for determining the stockholders entitled to vote at the meeting, if such date is different from the record date for determining stockholders entitled to notice of the meeting, and, in the case of a special meeting, the purpose or purposes of the meeting.

Proxy

 

Under the Companies Act 2006, at any meeting of shareholders, a shareholder may designate another person to attend, speak and vote at the meeting on their behalf by proxy.

 

Under Delaware law, at any meeting of stockholders, a stockholder may designate another person to act for such stockholder by proxy, but no such proxy shall be voted or acted upon after three years from its date, unless the proxy provides for a longer period.

178


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Issues of New Shares   Under the Companies Act 2006, the board of directors may issue new shares in the company, provided that they are authorized to do so either by (i) a provision of the company's articles of association, or (ii) a resolution of the company's shareholders.

Any authorization provided to the directors must specify (a) the maximum amount of shares which may be allotted under it, and (b) the expiry date of the authorization, which must not be more than five years following the date of incorporation of the company or the date of passing of the relevant authorizing resolution, as applicable.
  Under Delaware law, the directors may, at any time and from time to time, if all of the shares of capital stock which the corporation is authorized by its certificate of incorporation to issue have not been issued, subscribed for, or otherwise committed to be issued, issue or take subscriptions for additional shares of its capital stock up to the amount authorized in its certificate of incorporation.

Reduction of Share Capital

 

Under the Companies Act 2006, a public company may reduce or cancel its issued share capital in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006 if the reduction of capital has been approved by a special resolution of shareholders in general meeting and the reduction of capital has been confirmed by the court.

The special resolution of shareholders will need to specify the exact amount of the proposed reduction, although a public company cannot reduce its share capital below the minimum share capital requirements under the Companies Act 2006 (i.e. £50,000, of which at least one quarter must be fully paid up).

 

Under Delaware law, a corporation, by resolution of its board of directors, may retire any shares of its capital stock that are issued but are not outstanding. Whenever any shares of the capital stock of a corporation are retired, they resume the status of authorized and unissued shares of the class or series to which they belong unless the certificate of incorporation otherwise provides. Under Delaware law, a corporation may, under certain circumstances, by resolution of its board of directors, reduce its capital. No reduction of capital may be made or effected unless the assets of the corporation remaining after such reduction are sufficient to pay any debts of the corporation for which payment has not been otherwise provided. A reduction of capital will not release any liability of any stockholder whose shares have not been fully-paid.

179


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Preemptive Rights   Under the Companies Act 2006, equity securities proposed to be allotted for cash must be offered first to the existing equity shareholders in the company in proportion to the respective nominal value of their holdings, unless an exception applies or a special resolution to the contrary has been passed by shareholders in a general meeting or the articles of association provide otherwise, in each case in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act 2006. These pre-emption rights will have been dis-applied for a period of five years by our shareholders prior to completion of the offering and we intend to propose equivalent resolutions in the future once the initial period of dis-application has expired.   Under Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in a corporation's certificate of incorporation or any amendment thereto, or in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issue of such shares adopted by the board of directors pursuant to authority expressly vested in it by the provisions of its certificate of incorporation, a stockholder does not, by operation of law, possess pre-emptive rights to subscribe to additional issuances of the corporation's capital stock.

Bonus Issue of Shares

 

Under the Companies Act 2006, if a company's articles of association permit a bonus issue of shares, the board of directors may be authorized to capitalize certain reserves or profits and use those to issue bonus shares in accordance with the terms of the articles of association and the provisions of the Companies Act 2006.

 

Under Delaware law, by resolution of the board of directors, dividends may be paid in shares of the corporation's capital stock.

180


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Distributions and Dividends   Under English law, dividends and distributions may only be made from distributable profits. "Distributable profits" generally means accumulated realized profits, so far as not previously utilized by distribution or capitalization, less accumulated realized losses, so far as not previously written off in a reduction or reorganization of capital, duly made. This would include reserves created by way of a court-approved reduction of capital.

In the case of a public limited company, additional rules relating to capital maintenance requirements are applicable and, accordingly, a public company can only make a distribution (a) if, at the time that the distribution is made, the amount of its net assets is not less than the total of its called up share capital and undistributable reserves, and (b) if, and to the extent that, the distribution itself , at the time it is made, does not reduce the amount of net assets to less than that total.
  Under Delaware law, unless otherwise provided in a corporation's certificate of incorporation, directors may declare and pay dividends upon the shares of its capital stock either (i) out of its surplus or (ii) if the corporation does not have surplus, out of its net profits for the fiscal year in which the dividend is declared and/or the preceding fiscal year.

The excess, if any, at any given time, of the net assets of the corporation over the amount so determined to be capital is surplus. "Net assets" means the amount by which total assets exceed total liabilities.

Dividends may be paid in cash, in property, or in shares of the corporation's capital stock.


 

 

Undistributable reserves include the share premium account, the capital redemption reserve, the amount by which the company's unrealized uncapitalised profits exceed its unrealized losses not written off, or any other reserve that the company is prohibited from distributing either by statute or by its constitutional documents.

 

 

181


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
    The determination as to whether or not the company has sufficient distributable profits to fund a dividend or distribution must be made by reference to the "relevant accounts" of the company. Relevant accounts are always individual (not group) accounts and may be any of the following: (i) the company's most recent annual accounts, (ii) specifically prepared interim accounts, or (iii) specifically prepared initial accounts.    

 

 

Irrespective of the accounts used to justify the dividend or distribution, they must enable reasonable judgment to be made of the company's profits, losses, assets and liabilities, include appropriate provisions, and include details of the company's share capital and reserves (including undistributable reserves).

 

 

 

 

The process for declaring and paying dividends is usually set out in a company's articles of association. Typically these will provide that (a) final dividends are declared by shareholders following a recommendation from the board of directors (often at the company's annual general meeting), and (b) interim dividends can be decided solely by the board of directors.

 

 

 

 

Dividends may be declared and paid in the form of cash, property, stock or other non-cash assets and may be paid in dollars or any other currency.

 

 

182


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Repurchases and Redemptions of Shares   Under English law, a company is free to purchase its own shares, unless its articles of association expressly prohibit or limit share buybacks. A company's articles may also provide that repurchased shares are either cancelled or held as treasury shares.

A share repurchase can only be funded out of distributable profits or from the proceeds of a fresh issue of shares made for the purpose of financing the buyback. Public companies are not permitted to purchase their own shares out of capital.

Any repurchase of a company's shares will require shareholder approval. For an "off-market" purchase, the relevant buyback contract must be approved by shareholders either (i) before it was entered into, or (ii) after it was entered into, but provided that no shares may be purchased under the contract until it has been approved (by way of an ordinary resolution). For a "market" purchase, the repurchase must be approved by an ordinary resolution of the shareholders (unless the company's articles require a higher percentage), and it is common for listed companies to seek an annual authority from shareholders to repurchase shares at their annual general meeting. Prior to the completion of the offering, our shareholders are expected to adopt ordinary resolutions permitting our board of directors to repurchase shares for a period of five years. We do not expect to repurchase any shares in the near future after the completion of the offering.

  Under Delaware law, any stock of any class or series may be made subject to redemption by the corporation at its option or at the option of the holders of such stock or upon the happening of a specified event; provided however, that immediately following any such redemption the corporation must have outstanding one or more shares of one or more classes or series of shares, which share, or shares together, have full voting powers.

Any stock which may be made redeemable may be redeemed for cash, property or rights, including securities of the same or another corporation, at such time or times, price or prices, or rate or rates, and with such adjustments, as stated in the certificate of incorporation or in the resolution or resolutions providing for the issue of such stock adopted by the board of directors.

Every corporation may purchase, redeem, receive, take or otherwise acquire, own and hold, sell, lend, exchange, transfer or otherwise dispose of, pledge, use and otherwise deal in and with its own shares; provided, however, that no corporation may (i) purchase or redeem its own shares of capital stock for cash or other property when the capital of the corporation is impaired or when such purchase or redemption would cause any impairment of the capital of the corporation, except that a corporation other than a non-stock corporation may purchase or redeem out of capital any of its own shares which are entitled upon any

183


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
    A public limited company has the authority to issue redeemable shares provided that this is permitted by its articles of association (and the articles can be amended by way of special resolution if necessary for these purposes). Shares which are capable of being redeemed must be issued as redeemable shares from the outset and, accordingly, a company cannot amend the terms attaching to a non-redeemable class of shares to make them redeemable. Under the Companies Act 2006, a company which has issued redeemable shares must ensure that it has at least one non-redeemable share in issue and, in the case of a public limited company, that the redemption does not reduce the share capital of the company below the statutory minimum (£50,000, of which one-quarter must be fully paid up) unless the company intends to re-register as a private limited company.   distribution of its assets, whether by dividend or in liquidation, to a preference over another class or series of its stock, or, if no shares entitled to such a preference are outstanding, any of its own shares, if such shares will be retired upon their acquisition and the capital of the corporation reduced (ii) purchase, for more than the price at which they may then be redeemed, any of its shares which are redeemable at the option of the corporation; or (iii) redeem any of its shares, unless their redemption is authorized by Delaware law and then only in accordance with its certificate of incorporation.

184


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Liability of Directors and Officers   Under the Companies Act 2006, any provision (whether contained in a company's articles of association or any contract or otherwise) that purports to exempt a director of a company (to any extent) from any liability that would otherwise attach to him in connection with any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust in relation to the company is void. Any provision by which a company directly or indirectly provides an indemnity (to any extent) for a director of the company or of an associated company against any liability attaching to him in connection with any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust in relation to the company of which he is a director is also void except as permitted by the Companies Act 2006, which   Under Delaware law, a corporation's certificate of incorporation may include a provision eliminating or limiting the personal liability of a director to the corporation and its stockholders for monetary damages arising from a breach of fiduciary duty as a director. However, no provision can limit the liability of a director for: (i) any breach of the director's duty of loyalty to the corporation or its stockholders; (ii) acts or omissions not in good faith or that involve intentional misconduct or a knowing violation of law; (iii) willful or negligent declaration and payment of unlawful dividends, or unlawful share purchases or redemptions; or (iv) any transaction from which the director derives an improper personal benefit.

185


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
    provides exceptions for a company to (a) purchase and maintain insurance against such liability; (b) provide a "qualifying third party indemnity" (being an indemnity against liability incurred by the director to a person other than the company or an associated company as long as he or she is successful in defending the claim or criminal proceedings); and (c) provide a "qualifying pension scheme indemnity" (being an indemnity against liability incurred in connection with the company's activities as trustee of an occupational pension plan).   In addition, under Delaware law, a corporation has the power to indemnify any person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative (whether or not such action is by or in the right of the corporation) by reason of the fact that the person is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the corporation, against expenses, judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by the person if the person acted in good faith and in a manner reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interests of the corporation; provided, with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, there was no reasonable cause to believe the person's conduct was unlawful; provided, further, that the corporation may not indemnify any person in respect of any claim, issue or matter as to which such person shall have been adjudged to be liable to the corporation unless determined otherwise by court order.

186


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Voting Rights   Under English law, unless a poll is demanded by the shareholders of a company or is required by the chairman of the meeting or the company's articles of association, shareholders shall vote on all resolutions on a show of hands. Under the Companies Act 2006, a poll may be demanded by (a) not fewer than five shareholders having the right to vote on the resolution; (b) any shareholder(s) representing at least 10% of the total voting rights of all the shareholders having the right to vote on the resolution; or (c) any shareholder(s) holding shares in the company conferring a right to vote on the resolution (being shares on which an aggregate sum has been paid up equal to not less than 10% of the total sum paid up on all the shares conferring that right). A company's articles of association may provide more extensive rights for shareholders to call a poll. Under English law, an ordinary resolution is passed on a show of hands if it is approved by a simple majority (more than 50%) of the votes cast by shareholders present (in person or by proxy) and entitled to vote at a meeting. If a poll is demanded, an ordinary resolution is passed if it is approved by holders representing a simple majority of the total voting rights of shareholders present (in person or by proxy) who (being entitled to vote) vote on the resolution. Special resolutions require the affirmative vote of not less than 75% of the votes cast by shareholders present (in person or by proxy) at the meeting. If a   Delaware law provides that, unless otherwise provided in the certificate of incorporation, each stockholder is entitled to one vote for each share of capital stock held by such stockholder.

187


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
    poll is demanded, a special resolution is passed if it is approved by holders representing not less than 75% of the total voting rights of shareholders present (in person or by proxy) who (being entitled to vote) vote on the resolution.    

Shareholder Vote on Certain Transactions

  The Companies Act 2006 provides for schemes of arrangement, which are arrangements or compromises between a company and any class of shareholders or creditors and used in certain types of restructurings, amalgamations, capital reorganizations or takeovers.

These arrangements require:

the approval at a shareholders' or creditors' meeting convened by order of the court, of a majority in number of shareholders or creditors representing 75% in value of the capital held by, or debt owed to, the class of shareholders or creditors, or class thereof present and voting, either in person or by proxy; and

the approval of the court.

 

Generally, under Delaware law, unless the certificate of incorporation provides for the vote of a larger portion of the stock, completion of a merger, consolidation, sale, lease or exchange of all or substantially all of a corporation's assets or dissolution requires the approval of the board of directors and approval by the vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding stock or, if the certificate of incorporation provides for more or less than one vote per share, a majority of the votes of the outstanding stock of a corporation entitled to vote on the matter.

188


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware

Standard of Conduct for Directors

  Under English law, a director owes various statutory and fiduciary duties to the company, including:

to act in the way he or she considers, in good faith, would be most likely to promote the success of the company for the benefit of its members as a whole;

to avoid a situation in which he or she has, or can have, a direct or indirect interest that conflicts, or possibly conflicts, with the interests of the company;

 

Delaware law does not contain specific provisions setting forth the standard of conduct of a director. The scope of the fiduciary duties of directors is generally determined by the courts of the State of Delaware. In general, directors have a duty to act without self-interest, on a well-informed basis and in a manner they reasonably believe to be in the best interest of the stockholders.

 

to act in accordance with the company's constitution and only exercise his or her powers for the purposes for which they are conferred;

 

 

 

to exercise independent judgment;

 

 

 

to exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence;

   

 

not to accept benefits from a third party conferred by reason of his or her being a director or doing (or not doing) anything as a director; and

   

 

a duty to declare any interest that he or she has, whether directly or indirectly, in a proposed or existing transaction or arrangement with the company.

   

189


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware

Shareholder Suits

 

Under English law, generally, the company, rather than its shareholders, is the proper claimant in an action in respect of a wrong done to the company or where there is an irregularity in the company's internal management.

Notwithstanding this general position, the Companies Act 2006 provides that (i) a court may allow a shareholder to bring a derivative claim (that is, an action in respect of and on behalf of the company in which the company is the beneficiary of any damages arising) in respect of a cause of action arising from a director's negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust and (ii) a shareholder may bring a claim for a court order where the company's affairs have been or are being conducted in a manner that is unfairly prejudicial to some of its shareholders.

  Under Delaware law, a stockholder may initiate a derivative action to enforce a right of a corporation if the corporation fails to enforce the right itself. The complaint must:

state that the plaintiff was a stockholder at the time of the transaction of which the plaintiff complains or that the plaintiffs shares thereafter devolved on the plaintiff by operation of law; and

allege with particularity the efforts made by the plaintiff to obtain the action the plaintiff desires from the directors and the reasons for the plaintiff's failure to obtain the action; or

state the reasons for not making the effort.

Additionally, the plaintiff must remain a stockholder through the duration of the derivative suit. The action will not be dismissed or compromised without the approval of the Delaware Court of Chancery.

190


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware

Inspection of Books and Records

  Under the Companies Act 2006, shareholders have rights including the right to:

inspect and obtain copies (for a fee) of the minutes of all general meetings of the company and all resolutions of members passed other than at a general meeting;

inspect copies of the register of members, register of directors, register of secretaries and other statutory registers maintained by the company;

receive copies of the company's annual report and accounts for each financial year;

receive notices of general meetings of the company.

A company's articles of association must be registered at Companies House and are therefore open to public inspection.

Shareholders do not have any right to inspect board minutes of the company.

 

Under Delaware law, any stockholder, in person or by attorney or other agent, does, upon written demand under oath stating the purpose thereof, have the right during the usual hours for business to inspect for any proper purpose, and to make copies and extracts from:

(i) the corporation's stock ledger, a list of its stockholders, and its other books and records; and

(ii) a subsidiary's books and records, to the extent that:

(a)   the corporation has actual possession and control of such records of such subsidiary; or

(b)   the corporation could obtain such records through the exercise of control over such subsidiary, provided that as of the date of the making of the demand:

(1)   the stockholder inspection of such books and records of the subsidiary would not constitute a breach of an agreement between the corporation or the subsidiary and a person or persons not affiliated with the corporation; and

(2)   the subsidiary would not have the right under the law applicable to it to deny the corporation access to such books and records upon demand by the corporation.

191


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
Amendments of Constituent Documents   Under the Companies Act 2006, companies may only alter their articles of association by way of passing a special resolution of shareholders in general meeting.   Under Delaware law, corporation may amend its certificate of incorporation, from time to time, in any and as many respects as may be desired, so long as its certificate of incorporation as amended would contain only such provisions as it would be lawful and proper to insert in an original certificate of incorporation filed at the time of the filing of the amendment; and, if a change in stock or the rights of stockholders, or an exchange, reclassification, subdivision, combination or cancellation of stock or rights of stockholders is to be made, such provisions as may be necessary to effect such change, exchange, reclassification, subdivision, combination or cancellation.

 

 

 

 

The board of directors must adopt a resolution setting forth the amendment proposed, declaring its advisability, and either calling a special meeting of the stockholders entitled to vote in respect thereof for the consideration of such amendment or directing that the amendment proposed be considered at the next annual meeting of the stockholders. A majority of the outstanding shares entitled to vote thereon and a majority of the outstanding shares of each class entitled to vote thereon as a class must vote in favor of the amendment.

192


Table of Contents

 
  England and Wales   Delaware
        The holders of the outstanding shares of a class must be entitled to vote as a class upon a proposed amendment, whether or not entitled to vote thereon by the certificate of incorporation, if the amendment would increase or decrease the aggregate number of authorized shares of such class, increase or decrease the par value of the shares of such class, or alter or change the powers, preferences, or special rights of the shares of such class so as to affect them adversely.

Sale of Unregistered Securities

              Upon our formation, we issued 50,000 of our ordinary shares, par value £1 per share (the "Subscriber Shares"), to Huntsman International (Netherlands) B.V., an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman. On June 30, 2017, (a) Huntsman International (Netherlands) B.V. transferred the Subscriber Shares to Huntsman International, and (b) we issued 50,000 redeemable shares, par value £1 per share, and one ordinary share, par value $1 per share, to Huntsman International, all of which (including the Subscriber Shares) will be repurchased by us prior to the consummation of the offering. Prior to the consummation of the offering, we expect to issue                 ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share, to Huntsman International and                ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share, to HHN. Immediately prior to the completion of this offering, we expect Huntsman International and HHN will be the sole shareholders of Venator. Immediately following the completion of this offering, we expect HHN to be the sole Huntsman owned entity holding shares of Venator. Each issuance of shares made prior to the issuance of shares in this offering was, or will be, made pursuant to the exemption from registration in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act because the offer and issuance of the ordinary shares did not, or will not, involve a public offering.

Listing

              We have been approved to list our ordinary shares on the NYSE under the ticker symbol "VNTR."

193


Table of Contents


SHARES ELIGIBLE FOR FUTURE SALE

              Prior to this offering, there was no public market for our ordinary shares.

Sale of Restricted Securities

              After this offering, we will have outstanding            ordinary shares, assuming no exercise of the underwriters' option to purchase additional ordinary shares, or            ordinary shares, assuming full exercise of the underwriters' option to purchase additional ordinary shares. Of these shares, all of the shares sold in this offering will be freely tradable without restriction under the Securities Act, unless purchased by our "affiliates" as that term is defined in Rule 144 under the Securities Act ("Rule 144"). The remaining ordinary shares that will be outstanding after this offering are "restricted securities" within the meaning of Rule 144. Restricted securities may be sold in the public market only if they are registered under the Securities Act or are sold pursuant to an exemption from registration under Rule 144, which is summarized below. Subject to the lock-up agreements described below, shares held by our affiliates that are not restricted securities may be sold subject to compliance with Rule 144 without regard to the prescribed one-year holding period under Rule 144. Huntsman currently intends to monetize its retained ownership stake in Venator following this offering. Subject to prevailing market and other conditions (including the terms of Huntsman's lock-up agreement), this future monetization may be effected in multiple follow-on capital market or block transactions that permit an orderly distribution of Huntsman's retained shares.

Rule 144

              In general, under Rule 144, as in effect on the date of this prospectus, beginning 90 days after the date of this prospectus, a person (or persons whose shares are aggregated) who has beneficially owned restricted shares for at least six months, will be entitled to sell in any three-month period, a number of shares that does not exceed the greater of:

    1% of the number of ordinary shares then outstanding; or

    the average weekly trading volume of our ordinary shares on the NYSE during the four calendar weeks immediately preceding the date on which the notice of sale is filed with the SEC.

              Sales pursuant to Rule 144 are subject to provisions relating to notice, manner of sale and the availability of current public information about us.

              In addition, under Rule 144, a person, or persons whose shares must be aggregated, who is not currently an affiliate of ours, and who has not been an affiliate of ours for at least 90 days before the sale, and who has beneficially owned the shares proposed to be sold for at least six months is entitled to sell the shares without restriction, provided that until the shares have been held for at least one year, they may only be sold subject to the availability of current public information about us.

Rule 701

              In general, Rule 701 of the Securities Act, as currently in effect, provides that any of our employees, consultants or advisors who purchased our ordinary shares in connection with a compensatory share or option plan or other written agreement relating to compensation is eligible to resell those shares 90 days after we became a reporting company under the Exchange Act in reliance on Rule 144, but without compliance with some of the restrictions provided in Rule 144, including the holding period requirements.

194


Table of Contents

Lock-Up Arrangements

              In connection with this offering, we, our directors and executive officers, Huntsman and its directors and executive officers, and the selling shareholders and their directors and executive officers have each agreed to enter into a lock-up agreement described in "Underwriting" that restricts the sale of our ordinary shares for a period of 180 days after the date of this prospectus. Three of the four representatives of the underwriters may consent to the release of any of our ordinary shares subject to these lock-up agreements at any time without notice. Following the lock-up period, substantially all of the ordinary shares that are restricted securities or are held by our affiliates as of the date of this prospectus will be eligible for sale in the public market in compliance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act.

Registration Rights

              Prior to the consummation of this offering, we will enter into a registration rights agreement with Huntsman pursuant to which we will grant Huntsman certain registration rights with respect to our ordinary shares owned by them. For more information, see "Certain Relationships and Related Party Transactions." Pursuant to the lock-up arrangements described above, Huntsman and its affiliates have agreed not to exercise those rights during the lock-up period without the prior written consent of the representatives, on behalf of the underwriters.

Shares Issued Under Employee Plans

              We intend to file a registration statement on Form S-8 under the Securities Act to register shares issuable under our equity incentive plan. This registration statement on Form S-8 is expected to be filed following the effective date of the registration statement of which this prospectus is a part and will be effective upon filing. Accordingly, shares registered under such registration statement will be available for sale in the open market following the effective date, unless such shares are subject to vesting restrictions with us, Rule 144 restrictions applicable to our affiliates or the lock-up restrictions described above.

195


Table of Contents


MATERIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS

Material U.S. Federal Income Tax Considerations

              The following is a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax considerations relating to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares by a U.S. holder (as defined below). This summary addresses only the U.S. federal income tax considerations for U.S. holders that are initial purchasers of our ordinary shares pursuant to the offering and that will hold such ordinary shares as capital assets for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This summary does not address all U.S. federal income tax matters that may be relevant to a particular U.S. holder. This summary does not address tax considerations applicable to a holder of ordinary shares that may be subject to special tax rules including, without limitation, the following:

    banks, financial institutions or insurance companies;

    brokers, dealers or traders in securities, currencies, commodities, or notional principal contracts;

    tax-exempt organizations, retirement plans, individual retirement accounts and other tax-deferred accounts;

    real estate investment trusts, regulated investment companies or grantor trusts;

    persons that hold our ordinary shares as part of a hedge, straddle, conversion, constructive sale or other "synthetic security" or integrated transaction;

    partnerships (including entities or arrangements classified as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes) or other pass-through entities, or persons that will hold our ordinary shares through such an entity;

    certain former citizens or former long term residents of the United States; and

    holders that have a "functional currency" for U.S. federal income tax purposes other than the U.S. dollar.

              Further, this summary does not address the U.S. federal estate, gift, or alternative minimum tax considerations, or any U.S. state, local, or non-U.S. tax considerations of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares.

              This description is based on the Code; existing, proposed and temporary U.S. Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder and administrative and judicial interpretations thereof. All the foregoing is subject to change, which change could apply retroactively, and to differing interpretations, all of which could affect the tax considerations described below. There can be no assurances that the IRS will not take a contrary or different position concerning the tax consequences of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares or that such a position would not be sustained by a court. Holders should consult their own tax advisors concerning the U.S. federal, state, local and non-U.S. tax consequences of acquiring, owning, and disposing of our ordinary shares in their particular circumstances.

              As used herein, a "U.S. holder" is a beneficial owner of our ordinary shares that is, for U.S. federal income tax purposes:

    an individual who is a citizen or resident of the U.S.;

    a corporation, or other entity that is treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, created or organized in or under the laws of the U.S., any state thereof, or the District of Columbia;

196


Table of Contents

    an estate, the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source; or

    any trust if (1) a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of such trust and one or more U.S. persons have the authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust, or (2) it has a valid election in place to be treated as a U.S. person for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

              If a partnership (including an entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds our ordinary shares, the tax treatment of a partner in the partnership generally will depend upon the status of the partner, upon the activities of the partnership and upon certain determinations made at the partner level. Accordingly, we urge partners in partnerships (including entities or arrangements treated as partnerships for U.S. federal income tax purposes) considering the purchase of our ordinary shares to consult their tax advisors regarding the U.S. federal income tax considerations of the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares by such partnership.

              As indicated below, this discussion is subject to U.S. federal income tax rules applicable to a PFIC.

               PERSONS CONSIDERING AN INVESTMENT IN OUR ORDINARY SHARES SHOULD CONSULT THEIR OWN TAX ADVISORS AS TO THE PARTICULAR TAX CONSEQUENCES APPLICABLE TO THEM RELATING TO THE ACQUISITION, OWNERSHIP AND DISPOSITION OF OUR ORDINARY SHARES, INCLUDING THE APPLICABILITY OF U.S. FEDERAL, STATE AND LOCAL TAX LAWS AND NON-U.S. TAX LAWS.

Tax Residence of the Company for U.S. Federal Income Tax Purposes.

              For U.S. federal tax purposes, a corporation is generally considered to be a tax resident of the jurisdiction of its organization or incorporation. Because we are incorporated under the laws of the U.K., we would be classified as a foreign corporation under these rules. Section 7874 of the Code provides an exception to this general rule under which a foreign incorporated entity may, in certain circumstances, be classified as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal tax purposes.

              Under Section 7874, a corporation created or organized outside the U.S. (i.e., a foreign corporation) will nevertheless be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal tax purposes if (i) the foreign corporation directly or indirectly acquires substantially all of the properties held directly or indirectly by a U.S. corporation (including through an acquisition of the outstanding shares of the U.S. corporation), or the "Substantially All Test", (ii) the former shareholders of the acquired U.S. corporation hold at least 80% (by either vote or value) of the shares of the foreign acquiring corporation after the acquisition by reason of holding shares in the acquired U.S. corporation (including the receipt of the foreign corporation's shares in exchange for the U.S. corporation's shares), or the "80% Ownership Test", and (iii) the foreign corporation's "expanded affiliated group" does not have substantial business activities in the foreign corporation's country of organization or incorporation relative to such expanded affiliated group's worldwide activities. For purposes of Section 7874, acquisitions of multiple U.S. corporations (and/or substantially all of the assets of multiple U.S. corporations) by a foreign corporation, if treated as part of a plan or series of related transactions, may be treated as a single acquisition, in which case all shares of the foreign acquiring corporation received by the shareholders of the U.S. corporations would be aggregated for purposes of the 80% Ownership Test. Where, pursuant to the same transaction, stock of the foreign acquiring corporation is received in exchange for stock of a U.S. corporation as well as other property, the portion of the stock of the foreign acquiring corporation received in exchange for the stock of the U.S. corporation is determined based on the relative value of the stock of the U.S. corporation compared with the aggregate value of such stock and such other property.

197


Table of Contents

              As part of the internal reorganization, we will directly and indirectly acquire assets, including stock of U.S. subsidiaries and assets previously held by U.S. corporations, from affiliates of Huntsman. It is not expected that Section 7874 will cause us or any of our affiliates to be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. tax purposes as a result of such acquisitions because, among other things, under Section 7874 and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, the 80% Ownership Test should not be satisfied. However, the law and Treasury Regulations promulgated under Section 7874 are relatively new, complex and somewhat unclear, and there is limited guidance regarding the application of Section 7874. Moreover, the rules for applying Section 7874 are dependent upon the subjective valuation of certain of our U.S. assets and non-U.S. assets.

              Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the IRS will not challenge our status or the status of any of our foreign affiliates as a foreign corporation under Section 7874 or that such challenge would not be sustained by a court. If the IRS were to successfully challenge such status under Section 7874, we and our affiliates could be subject to substantial additional U.S. federal income tax liability. The remainder of this discussion assumes that the Company will not be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes under Section 7874.

Distributions

              Although we do not currently plan to pay dividends, and subject to the discussion in "—Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations", below, the gross amount (before reduction for any amounts withheld in respect of foreign withholding tax) of distributions actually or constructively received by a U.S. holder with respect to our ordinary shares will be taxable as dividends to the extent paid out of our current and accumulated earnings and profits (as determined under U.S. federal income tax principles). Such dividends generally will be includible in a U.S. holder's gross income in accordance with the U.S. holder's method of accounting for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Distributions in excess of earnings and profits will then be non-taxable to the U.S. holder to the extent of, and will be applied against and correspondingly reduce, the U.S. holder's adjusted tax basis in the ordinary shares. Distributions in excess of earnings and profits and such adjusted tax basis will generally be taxable to the U.S. holder as either long-term or short-term capital gain depending upon whether the U.S. holder has held the ordinary shares for more than one year as of the time such distribution is received. However, since we do not calculate (and do not intend to calculate) our earnings and profits under U.S. federal income tax principles, it is expected that any distribution will be reported as a dividend, even if that distribution would otherwise be treated as a non-taxable return of capital or as capital gain under the rules described above because U.S. federal income tax rules assume we will have sufficient earnings and profits.

              Non-corporate U.S. holders may qualify for the preferential rates of taxation with respect to dividends on ordinary shares applicable to long-term capital gains (i.e., gains from the sale of capital assets held for more than one year) applicable to qualified dividend income (as discussed below) if we are a "qualified foreign corporation" and certain other requirements (discussed below) are met. A non-U.S. corporation (other than a corporation that is classified as a PFIC for the taxable year in which the dividend is paid or the preceding taxable year) generally will be considered to be a qualified foreign corporation (a) if it is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive tax treaty with the United States which the Secretary of Treasury of the United States determines is satisfactory for purposes of this provision and which includes an exchange of information provision, or (b) with respect to any dividend it pays on ordinary shares which are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States. Our ordinary shares will be listed on the NYSE, which is an established securities market in the U.S., and we expect the ordinary shares to be readily tradable on the NYSE. However, there can be no assurance that the ordinary shares will be considered readily tradable on an established securities market in the U.S. in later years. Subject to the discussion in "—Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations", below, such dividends will generally be "qualified dividend income" in the

198


Table of Contents

hands of individual U.S. holders, provided that a holding period requirement (more than 60 days of ownership, without protection from the risk of loss, during the 121-day period beginning 60 days before the ex-dividend date) and certain other requirements are met. The dividends will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction generally allowed to corporate U.S. holders.

              A U.S. holder generally may claim the amount of any U.K. withholding tax as either a deduction from gross income or a credit against U.S. federal income tax liability. The U.K. currently does not have a dividend withholding tax but there is no assurance that a dividend withholding tax will not be enacted following this offering. However, the foreign tax credit is subject to numerous complex limitations that must be determined and applied on an individual basis. Generally, the credit cannot exceed the proportionate share of a U.S. holder's U.S. federal income tax liability that such U.S. holder's foreign source taxable income bears to such U.S. holder's worldwide taxable income. In applying this limitation, a U.S. holder's various items of income and deduction must be classified, under complex rules, as either "foreign source" or "U.S. source." In addition, this limitation is calculated separately with respect to specific categories of income. Each U.S. holder should consult its own tax advisors regarding the foreign tax credit rules.

              In general, the amount of a distribution paid to a U.S. holder in a foreign currency will be the dollar value of the foreign currency calculated by reference to the exchange rate in effect on the date the dividend is includible in the U.S. holder's income, regardless of whether the payment is in fact converted into U.S. dollars at that time. Generally, a U.S. holder should not recognize any foreign currency gain or loss if the foreign currency is converted into dollars on the date the payment is received. However, any gain or loss resulting from currency exchange fluctuations during the period from the date the U.S. holder includes the dividend payment in income to the date such U.S. holder actually converts the payment into dollars will be treated as ordinary income or loss. That currency exchange income or loss (if any) generally will be income or loss from U.S. sources for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.

Sale, Exchange or Other Taxable Disposition of Ordinary Shares

              A U.S. holder will generally recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes upon the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of our ordinary shares in an amount equal to the difference between the U.S. dollar value of the amount realized from such sale or exchange and the U.S. holder's tax basis for those ordinary shares. Subject to the discussion in "—Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations" below, this gain or loss will generally be a capital gain or loss. The adjusted tax basis in the ordinary shares generally will be equal to the cost of such ordinary shares paid by the U.S. holder. Capital gain from the sale, exchange or other taxable disposition of the ordinary shares of a non-corporate U.S. holder is generally eligible for a preferential rate of taxation applicable to capital gains, if the non-corporate U.S. holder's holding period determined at the time of such sale, exchange or other taxable disposition for such ordinary shares exceeds one year (i.e., such gain is long-term taxable gain). The deductibility of capital losses for U.S. federal income tax purposes is subject to limitations under the Code. Any such gain or loss that a U.S. holder recognizes generally will be treated as U.S. source income or loss for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.

              For a cash basis taxpayer, units of foreign currency paid or received are translated into U.S. dollars at the spot rate on the settlement date of the purchase or sale. In that case, no foreign currency exchange gain or loss will result from currency fluctuations between the trade date and the settlement date of such a purchase or sale. An accrual basis taxpayer, however, may elect the same treatment required of cash basis taxpayers with respect to purchases and sales of the ordinary shares that are traded on an established securities market, provided the election is applied consistently from year to year. Such election may not be changed without the consent of the IRS. For an accrual basis taxpayer who does not make such election, units of foreign currency paid or received are translated into U.S. dollars at the spot rate on the trade date of the purchase or sale. Such an accrual basis taxpayer may

199


Table of Contents

recognize exchange gain or loss based on currency fluctuations between the trade date and the settlement date. Any foreign currency gain or loss a U.S. holder realizes will be U.S. source ordinary income or loss.

Net Investment Income Tax

              Certain U.S. holders that are individuals, estates or trusts may be subject to a 3.8% tax on all or a portion of their "net investment income," which may include all or a portion of their dividend income and net gains from the disposition of our ordinary shares. Each U.S. holder that is an individual, estate or trust is urged to consult its tax advisors regarding the applicability of the net investment income tax to its income and gains in respect of its investment in the ordinary shares.

Passive Foreign Investment Company Considerations

              If we are classified as a PFIC in any taxable year, a U.S. holder would be subject to special rules generally intended to reduce or eliminate any benefits from the deferral of U.S. federal income tax that a U.S. holder could derive from investing in a non-U.S. company that does not distribute all of its earnings on a current basis.

              A corporation organized outside the U.S. generally will be classified as a PFIC for U.S. federal income tax purposes in any taxable year in which, after applying certain look-through rules with respect to the income and assets of its subsidiaries, either: (i) at least 75% of its gross income is "passive income" or (ii) at least 50% of the average quarterly value of its total gross assets (which, assuming our stock is publicly-traded for the year being tested, would be measured by the fair market value of our assets) is attributable to assets that produce "passive income" or are held for the production of "passive income."

              Based on the composition of our assets, income and a review of our activities we do not believe that we currently are a PFIC, and we do not expect to become a PFIC in future taxable years. However, our status in any taxable year will depend on our assets, income and activities in each year, and because this is a factual determination made annually after the end of each taxable year, there can be no assurance that we will not be considered a PFIC for the current taxable year or any future taxable years. If we were a PFIC for any taxable year while a taxable U.S. holder held our ordinary shares, such U.S. holder would generally be taxed at ordinary income rates on any gain recognized from the sale or exchange of our ordinary shares and on any dividends treated as "excess distributions" and interest charges generally applicable to underpayments of tax should apply to any taxes payable.

              If we are determined to be a PFIC, U.S. holders may be able to make certain elections that could alleviate some of the adverse consequences of PFIC status and would result in an alternative treatment of the ordinary shares. Such elections include a "mark to market" election, a "deemed sale" election, and a "qualified electing fund" election. We may or may not be able to provide the information required to make any such elections, and U.S. holders should therefore not assume that any particular election will be available to them.

              If we are determined to be a PFIC, the general tax treatment for U.S. holders described in this section would apply to indirect distributions and gains deemed to be realized by U.S. holders in respect of any of our subsidiaries that also may be determined to be PFICs.

              If a U.S. holder owns ordinary shares during any taxable year in which we are a PFIC, the U.S. holder generally will be required to file an IRS Form 8621 (Information Return by a Shareholder of a Passive Foreign Investment Company or Qualified Electing Fund) with respect to the Company, generally with the U.S. holder's federal income tax return for that taxable year. If we were a PFIC for a given taxable year, then you should consult your tax advisor concerning your annual filing requirements.

200


Table of Contents

               The U.S. federal income tax rules relating to PFICs are complex. Prospective U.S. investors are urged to consult their own tax advisors with respect to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares, the consequences to them of an investment in a PFIC, any elections available with respect to the ordinary shares and the IRS information reporting obligations with respect to the acquisition, ownership and disposition of the ordinary shares.

Backup Withholding and Information Reporting

              U.S. holders generally will be subject to information reporting requirements with respect to dividends on our ordinary shares and on the proceeds from the sale, exchange or disposition of our ordinary shares that are paid within the U.S. or through U.S.-related financial intermediaries, unless the U.S. holder is an "exempt recipient." In addition, U.S. holders may be subject to backup withholding on such payments, unless the U.S. holder provides a taxpayer identification number and a duly executed IRS Form W-9 (or other successor form) or otherwise establishes an exemption. Backup withholding is not an additional tax, and the amount of any backup withholding will be allowed as a credit against a U.S. holder's U.S. federal income tax liability and may entitle such holder to a refund, provided that the required information is timely furnished to the IRS.

Certain Reporting Requirements With Respect to Payments of Offer Price

              U.S. holders paying more than U.S. $100,000 for our ordinary shares generally may be required to file IRS Form 926 reporting the payment of the offer price for the ordinary shares. Substantial penalties may be imposed upon a U.S. holder that fails to comply. For purposes of determining the total dollar value of ordinary shares purchased by a U.S. Holder in this offering, ordinary shares purchased by certain related parties (including family members) are included. Each U.S. holder should consult its own tax advisor as to the possible obligation to file IRS Form 926.

Foreign Asset Reporting

              Certain U.S. holders who are individuals (and, to the extent specified in applicable U.S. Treasury regulations, certain U.S. holders that are entities and certain non-U.S. holders) are required to report information relating to an interest in our ordinary shares, subject to certain exceptions (including an exception for shares held in accounts maintained by U.S. financial institutions) by filing IRS Form 8938 (Statement of Specified Foreign Financial Assets) with their federal income tax return. Substantial penalties apply to any failure to file IRS Form 8938, unless the failure is shown to be due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect. Also, in the event a U.S. holder does not file IRS Form 8938 or fails to report a specified foreign financial asset that is required to be reported, the statute of limitations on the assessment and collection of U.S. federal income taxes of such U.S. holder for the related tax year may not close before the date which is three years after the date on which the required information is filed. U.S. holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding their information reporting obligations, if any, with respect to their ownership and disposition of our ordinary shares.

               THE DISCUSSION ABOVE IS A GENERAL SUMMARY. IT DOES NOT COVER ALL TAX MATTERS THAT MAY BE OF IMPORTANCE TO A PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR. EACH PROSPECTIVE INVESTOR IS URGED TO CONSULT ITS OWN TAX ADVISOR ABOUT THE TAX CONSEQUENCES TO IT OF AN INVESTMENT IN OUR ORDINARY SHARES IN LIGHT OF THE INVESTOR'S OWN CIRCUMSTANCES.

Material U.K. Tax Considerations

              The following paragraphs relate only to persons who are resident for tax purposes in (and only in) the U.K. (except to the extent that the position of non-U.K. resident persons is expressly referred to

201


Table of Contents

herein). They describe certain U.K. tax consequences relating to the holding of our ordinary shares and are based on current U.K. tax law and HMRC published practice applying as of the date of this prospectus (both of which are subject to change at any time, possibly with retrospective effect). They do not constitute legal or tax advice and do not purport to be a complete analysis of all U.K. tax considerations relating to the holding of our ordinary shares. They relate only to persons who are absolute beneficial owners of our ordinary shares.

              These paragraphs may not relate to certain classes of holders of our ordinary shares, such as (but not limited to):

    persons who are connected with the Company;

    insurance companies;

    charities;

    collective investment schemes;

    pension schemes;

    brokers or dealers in securities or persons who hold ordinary shares otherwise than as an investment;

    persons who have (or are deemed to have) acquired their ordinary shares by virtue of an office or employment or who are or have been officers or employees of the Company or any of its affiliates; and

    individuals who are subject to U.K. taxation on a remittance basis.

              These paragraphs do not describe all of the circumstances in which holders of our ordinary shares may benefit from an exemption or relief from U.K. taxation. It is recommended that all holders of our ordinary shares obtain their own tax advice. In particular, non-U.K. resident or domiciled persons are advised to consider the potential impact of any relevant double tax agreements.

              The statements below relating to U.K. stamp duty and SDRT are subject to the comments made in the section entitled "Risk Relating to Our Ordinary Shares—Transfers of our shares may be subject to stamp duty or stamp duty reserve tax in the U.K., which would increase the cost of dealing in our shares" of this prospectus.

Taxation of Dividends

Withholding Tax

              Dividends paid by the Company will not be subject to any withholding or deduction for or on account of U.K. tax, irrespective of the residence or particular circumstances of the recipient shareholders.

Income Tax

              An individual holder of our ordinary shares who is resident for tax purposes in the U.K. may, depending on his or her particular circumstances, be subject to U.K. tax on dividends received from the Company. An individual holder of our ordinary shares who is not resident for tax purposes in the U.K. should not be chargeable to U.K. income tax on dividends received from the Company unless he or she carries on (whether solely or in partnership) any trade, profession or vocation in the U.K. through a branch or agency to which the ordinary shares are attributable. There are certain exceptions for trading in the U.K. through independent agents, such as some brokers and investment managers.

202


Table of Contents

              An individual holder who is resident for tax purposes in the U.K. and who receives a dividend in the tax year 2017/2018 will be entitled to a tax-free annual allowance of £5,000. It was announced in the UK Spring Budget that the dividend tax free allowance will be reduced to £2,000 from 6 April 2018. This measure was not enacted into U.K. law as part of the Finance Act 2017. However, the U.K. Government has announced that it will legislate for this provision as soon as possible after the Parliamentary summer recess. Shareholders should note that as this measure has not been enacted it may therefore be subject to change. Any dividend income received by such individual U.K. holder in excess of this tax-free allowance will be taxed at rates of 7.5%, 32.5%, and 38.1% for basic rate, higher rate, and additional rate taxpayers respectively. Dividend income that is within the allowance will count towards an individual's basic or higher rate limits. Dividend income will be treated as the top slice of an individual's income.

Corporation Tax

              Corporate holders of our ordinary shares that are resident for tax purposes in the U.K. or which carries on a trade in the U.K. through a permanent establishment to which the ordinary shares are attributable should not be subject to U.K. corporation tax on any dividend received from the Company so long as the dividends fall within an exempt class, which should be the case, although certain conditions must be met (including anti-avoidance conditions).

Taxation of Disposals

              A disposal of our ordinary shares by a shareholder resident for tax purposes in the U.K. may, depending on the shareholder's circumstances and subject to any available exemptions or reliefs, give rise to a chargeable gain or an allowable loss for the purposes of U.K. capital gains tax or U.K. corporation tax on chargeable gains (collectively, "CGT").

              If an individual holder of our ordinary shares, who is subject to U.K. income tax at either the higher or the additional rate becomes liable to U.K. capital gains tax on the disposal of ordinary shares, the applicable rate will be 20% (2017/18). For an individual holder of our ordinary shares who is subject to U.K. income tax at the basic rate and liable to U.K. capital gains tax on such disposal, the applicable rate would be 10% (2017/18), save to the extent that any capital gains exceed the unused basic rate tax band. In that case, the rate applicable to the excess would be 20% (2017/18).

              If a corporate holder of our ordinary shares, including a corporate holder which carries on a trade in the U.K. through a permanent establishment to which the ordinary shares are attributable, becomes liable to U.K. corporation tax on the disposal of the ordinary shares, the main rate of U.K. corporation tax (currently 19%) would apply. An indexation allowance may be available to such a holder to give an additional deduction based on the indexation of its base cost in the shares by reference to U.K. retail price inflation over its holding period. An indexation allowance can only reduce a gain on a future disposal, and cannot create a loss.

              A holder of our ordinary shares that is not resident for tax purposes in the U.K. should not normally be liable to CGT on a disposal of ordinary shares. However, an individual holder of our ordinary shares who has ceased to be resident for tax purposes in the U.K. for a period of five years or less and who disposes of ordinary shares during that period may be liable on his or her return to the U.K. to U.K. tax on any capital gain realized (subject to any available exemption or relief).

Stamp Duty and SDRT

              The discussion below relates to holders of our ordinary shares wherever resident.

              Transfers of our ordinary shares within a clearance service or depositary receipt system should not give rise to a liability to U.K. stamp duty or SDRT, provided that no instrument of transfer is

203


Table of Contents

entered into and that no election that applies to the ordinary shares is, or has been, made by the clearance service under Section 97A of the U.K. Finance Act 1986. It is understood that HMRC regards the facilities of DTC as a clearance service for these purposes and we are not aware of any relevant election under Section 97A of the U.K. Finance Act 1986 being made.

              Transfers of our ordinary shares within a clearance service where an election has been made by the clearance service under Section 97A of the U.K. Finance Act 1986 will generally be subject to SDRT (rather than U.K. stamp duty) at the rate of 0.5% of the amount or value of the consideration.

              Transfers of our ordinary shares that are held in certificated form will generally be subject to U.K. stamp duty at the rate of 0.5% of the consideration given (rounded up to the nearest £5). An exemption from U.K. stamp duty is available for a written instrument transferring an interest in shares where the amount or value of the consideration is £1,000 or less, and it is certified on the instrument that the transaction effected by the instrument does not form part of a larger transaction or series of transactions for which the aggregate consideration exceeds £1,000. SDRT may be payable on an agreement to transfer such shares, generally at the rate of 0.5% of the consideration given in money or money's worth under the agreement to transfer the shares. This charge to SDRT would be discharged if an instrument of transfer is executed pursuant to the agreement which gave rise to SDRT and U.K. stamp duty is duly paid on the instrument transferring the shares within six years of the date on which the agreement was made or, if the agreement was conditional, the date on which the agreement became unconditional.

              If our ordinary shares (or interests therein) are transferred (in the case of U.K. stamp duty) or issued or transferred (in the case of U.K. SDRT) to, or to a nominee or agent for, a person whose business is or includes the provision of clearance services or issuing depositary receipts, U.K. stamp duty or SDRT is provided for under U.K. legislation at the rate of 1.5% of the amount or value of the consideration given or, in certain circumstances, the value of the shares (save to the extent that an election has been made under Section 97A of the U.K. Finance Act 1986). However, following litigation, HMRC have confirmed that they will no longer seek to apply the 1.5% SDRT charge on such an issue of shares or securities on the basis that the charge is not compatible with EU law. HMRC's view is that the 1.5% SDRT or stamp duty charge will continue to apply to such a transfer of shares or securities to a clearance service or depositary receipt system where the transfer is not an integral part of an issue of share capital. This liability for U.K. stamp duty or SDRT will strictly be accountable by the clearance service or depositary receipt system, as the case may be, but will, in practice, generally be reimbursed by participants in the clearance service or depositary receipt system.

204


Table of Contents


UNDERWRITING

              Each of Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is acting as a representative (collectively, "the representatives") of each of the underwriters named below. Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in an underwriting agreement among us and the underwriters, we and the selling shareholders have agreed to sell to the underwriters, and each of the underwriters has agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase from us and the selling shareholders, the number of ordinary shares set forth opposite its name below.

                       Underwriter
 
Number of
Ordinary
Shares
 

Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

       

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC

       

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
                  Incorporated

       

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

       

Barclays Capital Inc.

       

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.

       

UBS Securities LLC

       

RBC Capital Markets, LLC

       

Moelis & Company LLC

       

HSBC Securities (USA) Inc.

       

Nomura Securities International, Inc.

       

SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc.

       

Academy Securities, Inc.

       

Commerz Markets LLC

       

                      Total

       

              Subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the underwriting agreement, the underwriters have agreed, severally and not jointly, to purchase all of the ordinary shares sold under the underwriting agreement if any of these ordinary shares are purchased. If an underwriter defaults, the underwriting agreement provides that the purchase commitments of the nondefaulting underwriters may be increased or the underwriting agreement may be terminated.

              We and the selling shareholder have agreed to indemnify the several underwriters against certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act, or to contribute to payments the underwriters may be required to make in respect of those liabilities.

              The underwriters are offering the ordinary shares, subject to prior sale, when, as and if issued to and accepted by them, subject to approval of legal matters by their counsel, including the validity of the ordinary shares, and other conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, such as the receipt by the underwriters of officer's certificates and legal opinions. The underwriters reserve the right to withdraw, cancel or modify offers to the public and to reject orders in whole or in part. The underwriters may offer and sell the ordinary shares through certain of their respective affiliates.

Commissions and Discounts

              The representatives have advised us and the selling shareholders that the underwriters propose initially to offer the ordinary shares to the public at the public offering price set forth on the cover page of this prospectus and to dealers at that price less a concession not in excess of $            per

205


Table of Contents

share. After the initial offering, the public offering price, concession or any other term of the offering may be changed.

              The following table shows the public offering price, underwriting discount and proceeds before expenses to the selling shareholders. The information assumes either no exercise or full exercise by the underwriters of their option to purchase additional ordinary shares.

 
  Per Share   Without Option   With Option

Public offering price

  $   $   $

Underwriting discount(1)

  $   $   $

Proceeds, before expenses, to Huntsman International

  $   $   $

Proceeds, before expenses, to HHN

  $   $   $

(1)
Excludes an aggregate structuring fee of $            payable to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated.

              The expenses of the offering, not including the underwriting discount, are estimated at $            and are payable by us. We will pay a structuring fee in the amount of $            to Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated for the evaluation, analysis and structuring of the transactions in connection with the separation of our business from Huntsman through a spin-off, this initial public offering or otherwise.

              We have agreed to reimburse the underwriters for certain out-of-pocket expenses of the underwriters, including the reasonable fees, disbursements and expenses of counsel in connection with required review by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, in an amount not to exceed $            .

Option to Purchase Additional Ordinary Shares

              HHN has granted an option to the underwriters, exercisable for 30 days after the date of this prospectus, to purchase up to                 additional ordinary shares at the public offering price, less the underwriting discount. If the underwriters exercise this option, each will be obligated, subject to conditions contained in the underwriting agreement, to purchase a number of additional ordinary shares proportionate to that underwriter's initial amount reflected in the above table.

No Sales of Similar Securities

              We, our directors and executive officers, Huntsman and its directors and executive officers, and the selling shareholders and their directors and executive officers have agreed not to sell or transfer any ordinary shares or securities convertible into, exchangeable for, exercisable for, or repayable with ordinary shares, for 180 days after the date of this prospectus without first obtaining the written consent of three of the four representatives of the underwriters. Specifically, we and these other persons have agreed, with certain limited exceptions noted below and otherwise, not to directly or indirectly

    offer, pledge, sell or contract to sell any ordinary shares,

    sell any option or contract to purchase any ordinary shares,

    purchase any option or contract to sell any ordinary shares,

    grant any option, right or warrant for the sale of any ordinary shares,

    otherwise dispose of or transfer any ordinary shares,

    request or demand that we file a registration statement related to the ordinary shares, or

206


Table of Contents

    enter into any swap or other agreement that transfers, in whole or in part, the economic consequence of ownership of any ordinary shares whether any such swap or transaction is to be settled by delivery of shares or other securities, in cash or otherwise.

              However, subject to other limited exceptions, the foregoing restrictions do not apply to our transfer (subject to certain limited conditions) of any of our share capital or securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for such share capital as payment of any part of the purchase price for the acquisition of the securities, business, property or other assets of another person or entity, provided, that, (i) in the aggregate, such securities shall not exceed 10% of the outstanding share capital of the Company immediately following completion of this offering and (ii) the recipient of any such securities shall agree in writing to be bound by the same terms described in the lock-up agreement to the extent and for the duration that such terms remain in effect at the time of the transfer.

              These lock-up provisions apply to ordinary shares and to securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for or repayable with ordinary shares. They also apply to ordinary shares owned now or acquired later by the person executing the agreement or for which the person executing the agreement later acquires the power of disposition.

New York Stock Exchange Listing

              Our ordinary shares have been approved for listing on the NYSE under the symbol "VNTR." In order to meet the requirements for listing on that exchange, the underwriters have undertaken to sell a minimum number of ordinary shares to a minimum number of beneficial owners as required by that exchange.

              Before this offering, there has been no public market for our ordinary shares. The initial public offering price will be determined through negotiations among us, the selling shareholders and the representatives. In addition to prevailing market conditions, the factors to be considered in determining the initial public offering price are

    the valuation multiples of publicly traded companies that the representatives believe to be comparable to us;

    our financial information;

    the history of, and the prospects for, our Company and the industry in which we compete;

    an assessment of our management, its past and present operations, and the prospects for, and timing of, our future revenues;

    the present state of our development; and

    the above factors in relation to market values and various valuation measures of other companies engaged in activities similar to ours.

              An active trading market for the ordinary shares may not develop. It is also possible that after the offering the ordinary shares will not trade in the public market at or above the initial public offering price.

              The underwriters do not expect to sell more than 5% of the ordinary shares in the aggregate to accounts over which they exercise discretionary authority.

Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids

              Until the distribution of the ordinary shares is completed, SEC rules may limit underwriters and selling group members from bidding for and purchasing our ordinary shares. However, the

207


Table of Contents

representatives may engage in transactions that stabilize the price of the ordinary shares, such as bids or purchases to peg, fix or maintain that price.

              In connection with the offering, the underwriters may purchase and sell our ordinary shares in the open market. These transactions may include short sales, purchases on the open market to cover positions created by short sales and stabilizing transactions. Short sales involve the sale by the underwriters of a greater number of shares than they are required to purchase in the offering. "Covered" short sales are sales made in an amount not greater than the underwriters' option to purchase additional ordinary shares described above. The underwriters may close out any covered short position by either exercising their option to purchase additional ordinary shares or purchasing ordinary shares in the open market. In determining the source of ordinary shares to close out the covered short position, the underwriters will consider, among other things, the price of ordinary shares available for purchase in the open market as compared to the price at which they may purchase ordinary shares through the option granted to them. "Naked" short sales are sales in excess of such option. The underwriters must close out any naked short position by purchasing ordinary shares in the open market. A naked short position is more likely to be created if the underwriters are concerned that there may be downward pressure on the price of our ordinary shares in the open market after pricing that could adversely affect investors who purchase in the offering. Stabilizing transactions consist of various bids for or purchases of ordinary shares made by the underwriters in the open market prior to the completion of the offering.

              The underwriters may also impose a penalty bid. This occurs when a particular underwriter repays to the underwriters a portion of the underwriting discount received by it because the representatives have repurchased ordinary shares sold by or for the account of such underwriter in stabilizing or short covering transactions.

              Similar to other purchase transactions, the underwriters' purchases to cover the syndicate short sales may have the effect of raising or maintaining the market price of our ordinary shares or preventing or retarding a decline in the market price of our ordinary shares. As a result, the price of our ordinary shares may be higher than the price that might otherwise exist in the open market. The underwriters may conduct these transactions on the NYSE, in the over-the-counter market or otherwise.

              Neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation or prediction as to the direction or magnitude of any effect that the transactions described above may have on the price of our ordinary shares. In addition, neither we nor any of the underwriters make any representation that the representatives will engage in these transactions or that these transactions, once commenced, will not be discontinued without notice.

Electronic Distribution

              In connection with the offering, certain of the underwriters or securities dealers may distribute prospectuses by electronic means, such as e-mail.

Other Relationships

              Some of the underwriters and their affiliates have engaged in, and may in the future engage in, investment banking and other commercial dealings in the ordinary course of business with us or our affiliates. They have received, or may in the future receive, customary fees and commissions for these transactions.

              In addition, in the ordinary course of their business activities, the underwriters and their affiliates may make or hold a broad array of investments and actively trade debt and equity securities (or related derivative securities) and financial instruments (including bank loans) for their own account

208


Table of Contents

and for the accounts of their customers. Such investments and securities activities may involve securities and/or instruments of ours or our affiliates. The underwriters and their affiliates may also make investment recommendations and/or publish or express independent research views in respect of such securities or financial instruments and may hold, or recommend to clients that they acquire, long and/or short positions in such securities and instruments.

European Economic Area

              In relation to each member state of the European Economic Area, no offer of ordinary shares which are the subject of the offering has been, or will be made, to the public in that member state of the European Economic Area ("Member State"), other than under the following exemptions under the Prospectus Directive:

    (a)
    to any legal entity which is a qualified investor as defined in the Prospectus Directive;

    (b)
    to fewer than 150 natural or legal persons (other than qualified investors as defined in the Prospectus Directive), subject to obtaining the prior consent of the representatives for any such offer; or

    (c)
    in any other circumstances falling within Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive,

provided that no such offer of ordinary shares referred to in (a) to (c) above shall result in a requirement for the Company or any representative to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive, or supplement a prospectus pursuant to Article 16 of the Prospectus Directive.

              Each person located in a Member State to whom any offer of ordinary shares is made or who receives any communication in respect of an offer of ordinary shares, or who initially acquires any ordinary shares will be deemed to have represented, warranted, acknowledged and agreed to and with each representative and the Company that (1) it is a "qualified investor" within the meaning of the law in that Member State implementing Article 2(1)(e) of the Prospectus Directive; and (2) in the case of any ordinary shares acquired by it as a financial intermediary as that term is used in Article 3(2) of the Prospectus Directive, the ordinary shares acquired by it in the offer have not been acquired on behalf of, nor have they been acquired with a view to their offer or resale to, persons in any Member State other than qualified investors, as that term is defined in the Prospectus Directive, or in circumstances in which the prior consent of the representatives have been given to the offer or resale; or where ordinary shares have been acquired by it on behalf of persons in any Member State other than qualified investors, the offer of those ordinary shares to it is not treated under the Prospectus Directive as having been made to such persons.

              The Company, the representative and their respective affiliates will rely upon the truth and accuracy of the foregoing representations, acknowledgments and agreements.

              This prospectus has been prepared on the basis that any offer of ordinary shares in any Member State will be made pursuant to an exemption under the Prospectus Directive from the requirement to publish a prospectus for offers of shares. Accordingly any person making or intending to make an offer in that Member State of shares which are the subject of the offering contemplated in this prospectus may only do so in circumstances in which no obligation arises for the Company or the representatives to publish a prospectus pursuant to Article 3 of the Prospectus Directive in relation to such offer. Neither the Company nor the representatives have authorized, nor do they authorize, the making of any offer of ordinary shares in circumstances in which an obligation arises for the Company or the representatives to publish a prospectus for such offer.

              For the purposes of this provision, the expression an "offer of ordinary shares to the public" in relation to any ordinary shares in any Member State means the communication in any form and by any means of sufficient information on the terms of the offer and the ordinary shares to be offered so as to

209


Table of Contents

enable an investor to decide to purchase or subscribe the ordinary shares, as the same may be varied in that Member State by any measure implementing the Prospectus Directive in that Member State, the expression "Prospectus Directive" means Directive 2003/71/EC (as amended) and includes any relevant implementing measure in each Member State.

              The above selling restriction is in addition to any other selling restrictions set out below.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the U.K.

              In addition, in the U.K., this document is being distributed only to, and is directed only at, and any offer subsequently made may only be directed at persons who are "qualified investors" (as defined in the Prospectus Directive) (i) who have professional experience in matters relating to investments falling within Article 19 (5) of the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Financial Promotion) Order 2005, as amended (the "Order") and/or (ii) who are high net worth companies (or persons to whom it may otherwise be lawfully communicated) falling within Article 49(2)(a) to (d) of the Order (all such persons together being referred to as "relevant persons"). This document must not be acted on or relied on in the U.K. by persons who are not relevant persons. In the U.K., any investment or investment activity to which this document relates is only available to, and will be engaged in with, relevant persons.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Switzerland

              The ordinary shares may not be publicly offered in Switzerland and will not be listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange ("SIX") or on any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. This document has been prepared without regard to the disclosure standards for issuance prospectuses under art. 652a or art. 1156 of the Swiss Code of Obligations or the disclosure standards for listing prospectuses under art. 27 ff. of the SIX Listing Rules or the listing rules of any other stock exchange or regulated trading facility in Switzerland. Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the ordinary shares or the offering may be publicly distributed or otherwise made publicly available in Switzerland.

              Neither this document nor any other offering or marketing material relating to the offering, the Company, the ordinary shares have been or will be filed with or approved by any Swiss regulatory authority. In particular, this document will not be filed with, and the offer of ordinary shares will not be supervised by, the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority FINMA, and the offer of ordinary shares has not been and will not be authorized under the Swiss Federal Act on Collective Investment Schemes ("CISA"). The investor protection afforded to acquirers of interests in collective investment schemes under the CISA does not extend to acquirers of ordinary shares.

Notice to Prospective Investors in the Dubai International Financial Centre

              This prospectus relates to an Exempt Offer in accordance with the Offered Securities Rules of the Dubai Financial Services Authority ("DFSA"). This prospectus is intended for distribution only to persons of a type specified in the Offered Securities Rules of the DFSA. It must not be delivered to, or relied on by, any other person. The DFSA has no responsibility for reviewing or verifying any documents in connection with Exempt Offers. The DFSA has not approved this prospectus nor taken steps to verify the information set forth herein and has no responsibility for the prospectus. The ordinary shares to which this prospectus relates may be illiquid and/or subject to restrictions on their resale. Prospective purchasers of the ordinary shares offered should conduct their own due diligence on the ordinary shares. If you do not understand the contents of this prospectus you should consult an authorized financial advisor.

210


Table of Contents

Notice to Prospective Investors in Australia

              No placement document, prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document has been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission, in relation to the offering. This prospectus does not constitute a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act 2001 (the "Corporations Act"), and does not purport to include the information required for a prospectus, product disclosure statement or other disclosure document under the Corporations Act.

              Any offer in Australia of the ordinary shares may only be made to persons (the "Exempt Investors") who are "sophisticated investors" (within the meaning of section 708(8) of the Corporations Act), "professional investors" (within the meaning of section 708(11) of the Corporations Act) or otherwise pursuant to one or more exemptions contained in section 708 of the Corporations Act so that it is lawful to offer the ordinary shares without disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act.

              The ordinary shares applied for by Exempt Investors in Australia must not be offered for sale in Australia in the period of 12 months after the date of allotment under the offering, except in circumstances where disclosure to investors under Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act would not be required pursuant to an exemption under section 708 of the Corporations Act or otherwise or where the offer is pursuant to a disclosure document which complies with Chapter 6D of the Corporations Act. Any person acquiring ordinary shares must observe such Australian on-sale restrictions.

              This prospectus contains general information only and does not take account of the investment objectives, financial situation or particular needs of any particular person. It does not contain any securities recommendations or financial product advice. Before making an investment decision, investors need to consider whether the information in this prospectus is appropriate to their needs, objectives and circumstances, and, if necessary, seek expert advice on those matters.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Hong Kong

              The ordinary shares have not been offered or sold and will not be offered or sold in Hong Kong, by means of any document, other than (a) to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance (Cap. 571) of Hong Kong and any rules made under that Ordinance; or (b) in other circumstances which do not result in the document being a "prospectus" as defined in the Companies Ordinance (Cap. 32) of Hong Kong or which do not constitute an offer to the public within the meaning of that Ordinance. No advertisement, invitation or document relating to the ordinary shares has been or may be issued or has been or may be in the possession of any person for the purposes of issue, whether in Hong Kong or elsewhere, which is directed at, or the contents of which are likely to be accessed or read by, the public of Hong Kong (except if permitted to do so under the securities laws of Hong Kong) other than with respect to ordinary shares which are or are intended to be disposed of only to persons outside Hong Kong or only to "professional investors" as defined in the Securities and Futures Ordinance and any rules made under that Ordinance.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Japan

              The ordinary shares have not been and will not be registered under the Financial Instruments and Exchange Law of Japan (Law No. 25 of 1948, as amended) and, accordingly, will not be offered or sold, directly or indirectly, in Japan, or for the benefit of any Japanese Person or to others for re-offering or resale, directly or indirectly, in Japan or to any Japanese Person, except in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations and ministerial guidelines promulgated by relevant Japanese governmental or regulatory authorities in effect at the relevant time. For the purposes of this paragraph, "Japanese Person" shall mean any person resident in Japan, including any corporation or other entity organized under the laws of Japan.

211


Table of Contents

Notice to Prospective Investors in Singapore

              This prospectus has not been registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, this prospectus and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of ordinary shares may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the ordinary shares be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to persons in Singapore other than (i) to an institutional investor under Section 274 of the Securities and Futures Act, Chapter 289 of Singapore (the "SFA"), (ii) to a relevant person pursuant to Section 275(1), or any person pursuant to Section 275(1A), and in accordance with the conditions specified in Section 275, of the SFA, or (iii) otherwise pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA.

              Where the ordinary shares are subscribed or purchased under Section 275 of the SFA by a relevant person which is:

    (a)
    a corporation (which is not an accredited investor (as defined in Section 4A of the SFA)) the sole business of which is to hold investments and the entire share capital of which is owned by one or more individuals, each of whom is an accredited investor; or

    (b)
    a trust (where the trustee is not an accredited investor) whose sole purpose is to hold investments and each beneficiary of the trust is an individual who is an accredited investor,

securities (as defined in Section 239(1) of the SFA) of that corporation or the beneficiaries' rights and interest (howsoever described) in that trust shall not be transferred within six months after that corporation or that trust has acquired the ordinary shares pursuant to an offer made under Section 275 of the SFA except:

    (a)
    to an institutional investor or to a relevant person defined in Section 275(2) of the SFA, or to any person arising from an offer referred to in Section 275(1A) or Section 276(4)(i)(B) of the SFA;

    (b)
    where no consideration is or will be given for the transfer;

    (c)
    where the transfer is by operation of law;

    (d)
    as specified in Section 276(7) of the SFA; or

    (e)
    as specified in Regulation 32 of the Securities and Futures (Offers of Investments) (Shares and Debentures) Regulations 2005 of Singapore.

Notice to Prospective Investors in Canada

              The ordinary shares may be sold only to purchasers purchasing, or deemed to be purchasing, as principal that are accredited investors, as defined in National Instrument 45-106 Prospectus Exemptions or subsection 73.3(1) of the Securities Act (Ontario), and are permitted clients, as defined in National Instrument 31-103 Registration Requirements, Exemptions and Ongoing Registrant Obligations . Any resale of the ordinary shares must be made in accordance with an exemption from, or in a transaction not subject to, the prospectus requirements of applicable securities laws.

              Securities legislation in certain provinces or territories of Canada may provide a purchaser with remedies for rescission or damages if this prospectus (including any amendment thereto) contains a misrepresentation, provided that the remedies for rescission or damages are exercised by the purchaser within the time limit prescribed by the securities legislation of the purchaser's province or territory. The purchaser should refer to any applicable provisions of the securities legislation of the purchaser's province or territory for particulars of these rights or consult with a legal advisor.

212


Table of Contents

              Pursuant to section 3A.3 (or, in the case of securities issued or guaranteed by the government of a non-Canadian jurisdiction, section 3A.4) of National Instrument 33-105 Underwriting Conflicts (NI 33-105), the underwriters are not required to comply with the disclosure requirements of NI 33-105 regarding underwriter conflicts of interest in connection with this offering.

213


Table of Contents


LEGAL MATTERS

              The validity of our ordinary shares offered by this prospectus will be passed upon for us by Vinson & Elkins R.L.L.P., London, England. Certain legal matters in connection with this offering will be passed upon for us by Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., Houston, Texas and for the underwriters by Shearman & Sterling LLP, New York, New York.

214


Table of Contents


EXPERTS

              The balance sheet of Venator Materials PLC as of April 28, 2017 included in this prospectus, has been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report appearing herein. Such financial statement has been so included in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

              The combined financial statements and the related financial statement schedule of Venator (comprising the combined operations and legal entities of the Pigments & Additives division and certain other operations of Huntsman Corporation) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and for each of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, included in this prospectus, have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, an independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report appearing herein (which report expresses an unqualified opinion on the financial statements and the financial statement schedule and includes an explanatory paragraph relating to the correction of an error as described in Note 25 to the combined financial statements). Such financial statements and financial statement schedule have been so included in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

              The combined financial statements of Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, included in this prospectus, have been audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent auditors, as stated in their report appearing herein. Such financial statements have been so included in reliance upon the report of such firm given upon their authority as experts in accounting and auditing.

215


Table of Contents


WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION

              We have filed with the SEC a registration statement on Form S-1 under the Securities Act with respect to ordinary shares the selling shareholders are offering to sell. This prospectus, which constitutes part of the registration statement, does not contain all of the information contained in the registration statement and the exhibits thereto. For additional information relating to us and our ordinary shares, we refer you to the registration statement and its exhibits, which are on file at the offices of the SEC. Statements contained in this prospectus about the contents of any contract or other document referred to may not be complete, and in each instance, if we have filed the contract or document as an exhibit to the registration statement, we refer you to the copy of the contract or other documents so filed. We qualify each statement in all respects by the relevant reference.

              You may inspect and copy the registration statement and exhibits that we have filed with the SEC at the SEC's Public Reference Room at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Please call the SEC at (800) SEC-0330 for further information on the Public Reference Room. In addition, the SEC maintains an Internet site at www.sec.gov , from which you can electronically access the registration statement, including its exhibits.

              We maintain an Internet site at www.venatorcorp.com , and it will be completed and become fully functional in connection with the completion of this offering. We do not incorporate our Internet site, or the information contained on that site or connected to that site, into this prospectus or this registration statement.

              Upon completion of this offering, we will be required to comply with the full informational requirements of the Exchange Act. We will fulfill those obligations with respect to these requirements by filing periodic reports and other information with the SEC.

              We plan to make available free of charge on our website, all materials that we file electronically with the SEC, including our annual report on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K, Section 16 reports and amendments to these reports as soon as reasonably practicable after such materials are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the SEC. You also can obtain information about us at the offices of the New York Stock Exchange, 20 Broad Street, New York, New York 10005.

              You should rely only on the information contained in this prospectus or to which we have referred you. We have not authorized any person to provide you with different information or to make any representation not contained in this prospectus.

216


Table of Contents


INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
  Page

Venator Materials PLC

   

Audited Balance Sheet

   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  F-3

Balance Sheet as of April 28, 2017

  F-4

Notes to Balance Sheet

  F-5

Venator (Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

   

Unaudited Condensed Combined Financial Statements

   

Condensed Combined Balance Sheets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016

  F-6

Condensed Combined Statements of Operations for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 and 2016

  F-7

Condensed Combined Statements of Comprehensive Loss for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 and 2016

  F-8

Condensed Combined Statements of Equity for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 and 2016

  F-9

Condensed Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the Three Months Ended March 31, 2017 and 2016

  F-10

Notes to Unaudited Condensed Combined Financial Statements

  F-11

Audited Combined Financial Statements

   

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

  F-28

Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015

  F-29

Combined Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014

  F-30

Combined Statements of Comprehensive Loss for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014

  F-31

Combined Statements of Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014

  F-32

Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014

  F-33

Notes to Combined Financial Statements

  F-34

Schedules to Audited Combined Financial Statements

   

Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts

  F-80

Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc .

   

Audited Combined Financial Statements

   

Independent Auditors' Report

  F-81

Combined Statements of Operations for the Years Ended December 31, 2013 and 2012

  F-83

Combined Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Years Ended December 31, 2013 and 2012

  F-84

Combined Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012

  F-85

Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the Years Ended December 31, 2013 and 2012

  F-86

Combined Statements of Changes in Parent Company Equity for the Years Ended December 31, 2013 and 2012

  F-87

Notes to Combined Financial Statements

  F-88

Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited)

   

Condensed Combined Statements of Operations for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 and 2013

  F-130

Condensed Combined Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 and 2013

  F-131

Condensed Combined Balance Sheets as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013

  F-132

F-1


Table of Contents

 
  Page

Condensed Combined Statements of Cash Flows for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 and 2013

  F-133

Condensed Combined Statements of Changes in Parent Company Equity for the Nine Months Ended September 30, 2014 and 2013

  F-134

Notes to Condensed Combined Financial Statements

  F-135

F-2


Table of Contents

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors of
Venator Materials PLC:

              We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of Venator Materials PLC (the "Company") as of April 28, 2017 (date of formation). This financial statement is the responsibility of the Company's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on this financial statement 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 the financial statement is free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audit included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statement, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

              In our opinion, such balance sheet presents fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Venator Materials PLC as of April 28, 2017, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP

Houston, Texas
May 5, 2017

F-3


Table of Contents


VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

Balance Sheet

 
  April 28,
2017
 

ASSETS

       

Total Assets

  $  

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

       

Total liabilities

  $  

Equity

       

Ordinary shares ($0.32 par value per share, 50,000 shares authorized and subscribed)

  $ 16,100  

Ordinary share receivable from Huntsman International (Netherlands) B.V. 

    (16,100 )

Total equity

  $  

Total Liabilities and Equity

  $  

   

See notes to balance sheet.

F-4


Table of Contents


VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

Notes to Balance Sheet

1. Background and Basis of Presentation

              Venator Materials PLC (the "Company"), a company incorporated in the United Kingdom, was formed on April 28, 2017. The Company is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman International (Netherlands) B.V. and has no assets, no liabilities and has conducted no operations. It is intended that the Company will assume, in connection with the initial public offering, the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses of Huntsman Corporation ("Huntsman") and the related operations, assets, liabilities and obligations. It is also intended that the Company will ultimately operate in two segments, Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives.

              The accompanying balance sheet of the Company is prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

              On April 28, 2017, Huntsman International (Netherlands) B.V. subscribed to 50,000 shares for £12,500. This amount has been reflected in the accompanying balance sheet as a reduction of equity.

2. Subsequent Events

              Venator Materials PLC evaluated subsequent events through May 5, 2017, the date this balance sheet was available to be issued.

******

F-5


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  March 31,
2017
  December 31,
2016
 

ASSETS

             

Current assets:

             

Cash and cash equivalents(a)

  $ 35   $ 30  

Accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $5 each)(a)

    275     258  

Accounts receivable from affiliates

    502     303  

Inventories(a)

    440     434  

Prepaid expenses

    11     11  

Other current assets(a)

    63     60  

Total current assets

    1,326     1,096  

Property, plant and equipment, net(a)

    1,170     1,198  

Intangible assets, net(a)

    22     23  

Goodwill

        2  

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

    88     85  

Deferred income taxes

    175     163  

Notes receivable from affiliates

    57     57  

Other noncurrent assets(a)

    35     35  

Total assets

  $ 2,873   $ 2,659  

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

             

Current liabilities:

             

Accounts payable(a)

  $ 295   $ 303  

Accounts payable to affiliates

    783     705  

Accrued liabilities(a)

    188     156  

Current portion of debt(a)

    10     10  

Total current liabilities

    1,276     1,174  

Long-term debt

    13     13  

Long-term debt to affiliates

    894     882  

Deferred income taxes

    10     12  

Other noncurrent liabilities

    403     401  

Total liabilities

    2,596     2,482  

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 9 and 10)

             

Equity

             

Parent's net investment and advances

    678     588  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (414 )   (423 )

Total Venator

    264     165  

Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries

    13     12  

Total equity

    277     177  

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 2,873   $ 2,659  

(a)
At March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively, $5 and $4 of cash and cash equivalents, $7 and $6 of accounts receivable (net), $2 and $1 of inventories, $4 each of property, plant and equipment (net), $20 each of intangible assets (net), $1 each of accounts payable, $4 each of accrued liabilities, and $2 each of current portion of debt, from consolidated variable interest entities are included in the respective balance sheet captions above. See note "4. Variable Interest Entities."

   

See notes to unaudited condensed combined financial statements.

F-6


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  Three months
ended
March 31,
 
 
  2017   2016  

Revenues:

             

Trade sales, services and fees, net

  $ 552   $ 566  

Related party sales

    17     19  

Total revenues

    569     585  

Cost of goods sold

    489     550  

Operating expenses:

             

Selling, general, and administrative (includes corporate allocations of $26 and $24, respectively)

    44     57  

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    27     11  

Other expense, net

    11     6  

Total expenses

    82     74  

Operating loss

    (2 )   (39 )

Interest expense

    (14 )   (15 )

Interest income

    2     4  

Loss before income taxes

    (14 )   (50 )

Income tax benefit

    1     2  

Net loss

    (13 )   (48 )

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (3 )   (2 )

Net loss attributable to Venator

  $ (16 ) $ (50 )

   

See notes to unaudited condensed combined financial statements.

F-7


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  Three months
ended
March 31,
 
 
  2017   2016  

Net loss

  $ (13 ) $ (48 )

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

             

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    5     (47 )

Pension and other postretirement benefits adjustments

    4     8  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

    9     (39 )

Comprehensive loss

    (4 )   (87 )

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest

    (3 )   (2 )

Comprehensive loss attributable to Venator

  $ (7 ) $ (89 )

   

See notes to unaudited condensed combined financial statements.

F-8


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  Venator Equity    
   
 
 
  Parent's Net
Investment and
Advances
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
  Noncontrolling
Interest in
Subsidiaries
  Total  

Balance, January 1, 2017

  $ 588   $ (423 ) $ 12   $ 177  

Net (loss) income

    (16 )       3     (13 )

Net changes in other comprehensive loss

        9         9  

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

            (4 )   (4 )

Net changes in parent's net investment and advances

    106         2     108  

Balance, March 31, 2017

  $ 678   $ (414 ) $ 13   $ 277  

 

 
  Venator Equity    
   
 
 
  Parent's Net
Investment and
Advances
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
  Noncontrolling
Interest in
Subsidiaries
  Total  

Balance, January 1, 2016

  $ 1,112   $ (401 ) $ 17   $ 728  

Net (loss) income

    (50 )       2     (48 )

Net changes in other comprehensive loss

        (39 )       (39 )

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

            (3 )   (3 )

Net changes in parent's net investment and advances

    79         (1 )   78  

Balance, March 31, 2016

  $ 1,141   $ (440 ) $ 15   $ 716  

   

See notes to unaudited condensed combined financial statements.

F-9


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  Three months
ended
March 31,
 
 
  2017   2016  
 
  (As Restated)
  (As Restated)
 

Operating Activities:

             

Net loss

  $ (13 ) $ (48 )

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash (used in) provided by operating activities:

             

Depreciation and amortization

    30     24  

Deferred income taxes

    (7 )   (3 )

Noncash restructuring charges

    3     5  

Noncash interest

    10     10  

Noncash loss on foreign currency transactions

    7     3  

Other, net

    2     4  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

             

Accounts receivable

    (7 )   (56 )

Inventories

    (3 )   28  

Prepaid expenses

    29     1  

Other current assets

    (1 )   5  

Other noncurrent assets

    2     (5 )

Accounts payable

    (2 )   (10 )

Accrued liabilities

    (21 )   (7 )

Other noncurrent liabilities

    (7 )   2  

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    22     (47 )

Investing Activities:

             

Capital expenditures

    (20 )   (33 )

Insurance proceeds for recovery of property damage

    54      

Net advances to affiliates

    (90 )   (3 )

Cash received from unconsolidated affiliates

    12     10  

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

    (15 )   (11 )

Net cash used in investing activities

    (59 )   (37 )

Financing Activities:

             

Net borrowings on affiliate accounts payable

    45     93  

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest

    (4 )   (3 )

Net cash provided by financing activities

    41     90  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

    1      

Increase in cash and cash equivalents

    5     6  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    30     22  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ 35   $ 28  

Supplemental cash flow information:

             

Cash paid for interest

  $ 2   $ 2  

Cash paid for income taxes

    2     1  

              As of the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, the amount of capital expenditures in accounts payable was $8 million and $17 million, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, we received noncash settlements of notes receivable from affiliates of nil and $52 million, respectively. During the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, we settled noncash long-term debt to affiliates of $12 million and nil, respectively.

   

See notes to unaudited condensed combined financial statements.

F-10


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

              General —For convenience in this report, the terms "our," "us" or "we" may be used to refer to Venator and, unless the context otherwise requires, its subsidiaries.

              Description of Business —Venator (comprising the combined operations and legal entities of the Pigments & Additives division and certain other operations of Huntsman Corporation, or Huntsman) operates in two segments: Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives.

              The Titanium Dioxide segment manufactures and sells primarily titanium dioxide ("TiO 2 "), and has global operations operating eight TiO 2 manufacturing facilities, predominantly in Europe.

              The Performance Additives segment manufactures and sells functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment chemicals. This segment operates 19 color pigments, functional additives, water treatment and timber treatment manufacturing and processing facilities in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia.

              Recent Developments —On March 17, 2017, we announced a plan to close the white end finishing and packaging operation of our TiO 2 manufacturing facility based in Calais, France during the third quarter of 2017. The announced plan follows the 2015 closure of the black end manufacturing operations and will result in the closure of the entire facility. For more information, see note "5. Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs."

              On January 30, 2017, our titanium dioxide manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland experienced fire damage, and it is currently not fully operational. We are committed to repairing the facility as quickly as possible and we anticipate that a portion of our white end production will be operational during the second quarter of 2017. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded a loss of $32 million for the write-off of fixed assets and lost inventory in other operating expense in our condensed combined statements of operations. In addition, we recorded a loss of $4 million of costs for cleanup of the facility through March 31, 2017. The site is insured for property damage as well as business interruption losses subject to retained deductibles of $15 million and 60 days, respectively, with a limit of $500 million. On February 9, 2017, we received $54 million as an initial partial progress payment from our insurer. During the first quarter of 2017, we recorded $32 million of income related to insurance recoveries in other operating expense in our condensed combined statements of operations and we recorded $22 million as deferred income in accrued liabilities for costs not yet incurred.

              Basis of Presentation —Venator's unaudited condensed combined financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP" or "U.S. GAAP") and in management's opinion reflect all adjustments, consisting only of normal recurring adjustments, necessary for a fair presentation of results of operations, comprehensive income (loss), financial position and cash flows for the periods presented. Results of interim periods are not necessarily indicative of those to be expected for the full year. These unaudited condensed combined financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited combined financial statements and notes to combined financial statements.

              Venator's operations were included in Huntsman Corporation's financial results in different legal forms, including but not limited to: (1) wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses were the sole businesses; (2) legal entities which are comprised

F-11


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

of the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses; and (3) variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses are the primary beneficiaries. The unaudited condensed combined financial statements include all revenues, costs, assets, liabilities and cash flows directly attributable to Venator, as well as allocations of direct and indirect corporate expenses, which are based upon an allocation method that in the opinion of management is reasonable. Such corporate cost allocation transactions between Venator and Huntsman Corporation have been considered to be effectively settled for cash in the combined financial statements at the time the transaction is recorded and the net effect of the settlement of these intercompany transactions is reflected in the combined statements of cash flows as a financing activity. The unaudited condensed combined financial statements have been prepared from Huntsman Corporation's historical accounting records and are presented on a stand-alone basis as if Venator's operations had been conducted separately from Huntsman Corporation; however, Venator did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the combined financial statements may not be indicative of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows had Venator been a stand-alone company.

              For purposes of these unaudited condensed combined financial statements, all significant transactions with Huntsman International LLC ("Huntsman International"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman through which Huntsman operates all of its businesses, have been included in group equity. All intercompany transactions within the combined business have been eliminated.

              Huntsman Corporation's executive, information technology, environmental, health and safety and certain other corporate departments perform certain administrative and other services for Venator. Additionally, Huntsman Corporation performs certain site services for Venator. Expenses incurred by Huntsman Corporation and allocated to Venator are determined based on specific services provided or are allocated based on Venator's total revenues, total assets, and total employees in proportion to those of Huntsman Corporation. Management believes that such expense allocations are reasonable. Corporate allocations include allocated selling, general, and administrative expenses of $26 million and $24 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively.

2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Accounting Pronouncements Adopted During 2017

              In July 2015, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory . The amendments in this ASU do not apply to inventory that is measured using last-in first-out ("LIFO") or the retail inventory method, but rather does apply to all other inventory, which includes inventory that is measured using first-in first-out or average cost. An entity should measure in scope inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Subsequent measurement is unchanged for inventory measured using LIFO or the retail inventory method. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively. We adopted the amendments in this ASU effective January 1, 2017, and the

F-12


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Continued)

initial adoption of the amendment in this ASU did not have a significant impact on our condensed combined financial statements.

              In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-04, Intangibles—Goodwill and Other (Topic 350): Simplifying the Test for Goodwill Impairment . The amendments in this ASU simplify the subsequent measurement of goodwill by eliminating Step 2 from the goodwill impairment test. Under the amendments in this ASU, an entity should perform its annual, or interim, goodwill impairment test by comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its carrying value, which eliminates the current requirement to calculate a goodwill impairment charge by comparing the implied fair value of goodwill with its carrying amount. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual or any interim goodwill impairment tests in fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted for interim or annual goodwill impairment tests performed on testing dates after January 1, 2017. The amendments in this ASU should be applied on a prospective basis. We adopted the amendments in this ASU effective January 1, 2017 and the initial adoption of the amendments in this ASU did not have a significant impact on our condensed combined financial statements.

Accounting Pronouncements Pending Adoption in Future Periods

              In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) , outlining a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenues arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date , deferring the effective date of ASU No. 2014-09 for all entities by one year. Further, in March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) , clarifying the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations, in April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing , clarifying the implementation guidance on identifying performance obligations in a contract and determining whether an entity's promise to grant a license provides a customer with either a right to use the entity's intellectual property (which is satisfied at a point in time) or a right to access the entity's intellectual property (which is satisfied over time), in May 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-12, Revenue from Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients , providing clarifications and practical expedients for certain narrow aspects in Topic 606, and in December 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . The amendments in these ASUs are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. The amendments in ASU No. 2014-09, ASU No. 2016-08, ASU No. 2016-10, ASU No. 2016-12 and ASU No. 2016-20 should be applied retrospectively, and early application is permitted. We are currently performing the analysis identifying areas that will be impacted by the adoption of the amendments in ASU No. 2014-09, ASU No. 2016-08, ASU No. 2016-10, ASU No. 2016-12 and ASU No. 2016-20 on our condensed combined financial statements. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of the amendments in this ASU on our condensed combined financial statements. The standard will be adopted in our fiscal year 2018 and we have elected the modified retrospective approach as the transition method.

F-13


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Continued)

              In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) . The amendments in this ASU will increase transparency and comparability among entities by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this ASU will require lessees to recognize in the statement of financial position a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early application of the amendments in this ASU is permitted for all entities. Reporting entities are required to recognize and measure leases under these amendments at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of the amendments in this ASU on our condensed combined financial statements.

              In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments . The amendments in this ASU clarify and include specific guidance to address diversity in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The amendments in this ASU should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our condensed combined financial statements.

              In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory . The amendments in this ASU require entities to recognize the current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs, as opposed to deferring the recognition of the income tax consequences until the asset has been sold to an outside party. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2017, including interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted for all entities as of the beginning of an annual reporting period for which financial statements (interim or annual) have not been issued or made available for issuance. The amendments in this ASU should be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our condensed combined financial statements.

              In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash . The amendments in this ASU require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim period within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The amendments in this ASU should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our condensed combined financial statements.

F-14


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Continued)

              In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business . The amendments in this ASU clarify the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions or disposals of assets or businesses. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early application is permitted. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively on or after the effective date. No disclosures are required at transition. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our condensed combined financial statements.

              In March 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-07, Compensation—Retirement Benefits (Topic 715): Improving the Presentation of Net Periodic Pension Cost and Net Periodic Postretirement Benefit Cost . The amendments in this ASU require that an employer report the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the same line items as other compensation costs arising from services rendered by the pertinent employees during the period. The other components of net benefit cost are required to be presented in the income statement separately from the service cost component and outside of income from operations. The amendments in this ASU also allow only the service cost component to be eligible for capitalization when applicable (for example, as a cost of internally manufactured inventory or a self-constructed asset). The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments in this ASU should be applied retrospectively for the presentation of the service cost component and the other components of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in the income statement and prospectively, on and after the effective date, for the capitalization of the service cost component of net periodic pension cost and net periodic postretirement benefit cost in assets. The amendments in this ASU will impact the presentation of our condensed combined financial statements. Our current presentation of service cost components is consistent with the amendments in this ASU. Upon adoption of the amendments in this ASU, we expect to present the other components within other nonoperating income, whereas we currently present these within cost of goods sold and selling, general and administrative expenses.

3. INVENTORIES

              Inventories at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  March 31,
2017
  December 31,
2016
 

Raw materials and supplies

  $ 144   $ 138  

Work in process

    41     47  

Finished goods

    255     249  

Total

  $ 440   $ 434  

F-15


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

4. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

              We evaluate our investments and transactions to identify variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. We hold a variable interest in the following joint ventures for which we are the primary beneficiary:

    Pacific Iron Products Sdn Bhd is our 50%-owned joint venture with Coogee Chemicals that manufactures products for Venator. It was determined that the activities that most significantly impact its economic performance are raw material supply, manufacturing and sales. In this joint venture we supply all the raw materials through a fixed cost supply contract, operate the manufacturing facility and market the products of the joint venture to customers. Through a fixed price raw materials supply contract with the joint venture we are exposed to the risk related to the fluctuation of raw material pricing. As a result, we concluded that we are the primary beneficiary.

    Viance, LLC ("Viance") is our 50%-owned joint venture with Dow Chemical. Viance markets timber treatment products for Venator. Our joint venture interest in Viance was acquired as part of the Rockwood acquisition. It was determined that the activity that most significantly impacts its economic performance is manufacturing. The joint venture sources all of its products through a contract manufacturing arrangement at our Harrisburg, North Carolina facility and we bear a disproportionate amount of working capital risk of loss due to the supply arrangement whereby we control manufacturing on Viance's behalf. As a result, we concluded that we are the primary beneficiary and began consolidating Viance upon the Rockwood acquisition on October 1, 2014.

              Creditors of these entities have no recourse to Venator's general credit. As the primary beneficiary of these variable interest entities at March 31, 2017, the joint ventures' assets, liabilities and results of operations are included in Venator's combined financial statements.

              The revenues, income from continuing operations before income taxes and net cash provided by operating activities for our variable interest entities for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 are as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Three
months
ended
March 31,
 
 
  2017   2016  

Revenues

  $ 34   $ 29  

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

    7     4  

Net cash provided by operating activities

    7     7  

F-16


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

5. RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND PLANT CLOSING COSTS

              Venator has initiated various restructuring programs in an effort to reduce operating costs and maximize operating efficiency. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, accrued restructuring and plant closing costs by type of cost and initiative consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  Workforce
reductions(1)
  Other
restructuring
costs
  Total(2)  

Accrued liabilities as of January 1, 2017

  $ 22   $   $ 22  

2017 charges

    20     4     24  

Distribution of prefunded restructuring costs

    (1 )       (1 )

2017 payments

    (6 )   (4 )   (10 )

Accrued liabilities as of March 31, 2017

  $ 35   $   $ 35  

(1)
The total workforce reduction reserves of $35 million relate to the termination of 381 positions, of which 380 positions had not been terminated as of March 31, 2017.

(2)
Accrued liabilities remaining at March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 by year of initiatives were as follows (dollars in millions):
 
  March 31,
2017
  December 31,
2016
 

2015 initiatives and prior

  $ 15   $ 22  

2017 initiatives

    20      

Total

  $ 35   $ 22  

              Details with respect to our reserves for restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs are provided below by segment and initiative (dollars in millions):

 
  Titanium
Dioxide
  Performance
Additives
  Other
businesses
  Total  

Accrued liabilities as of January 1, 2017

  $ 12   $ 9   $ 1   $ 22  

2017 charges

    19     5         24  

Distribution of prefunded restructuring costs

    (1 )           (1 )

2017 payments

    (4 )   (6 )       (10 )

Accrued liabilities as of March 31, 2017

  $ 26   $ 8   $ 1   $ 35  

Current portion of restructuring reserves

  $ 22   $ 8   $ 1   $ 31  

Long-term portion of restructuring reserve

    4             4  

F-17


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

5. RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND PLANT CLOSING COSTS (Continued)

              Details with respect to cash and noncash restructuring charges for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 by initiative are provided below (dollars in millions):

 
  Three months ended
March 31, 2017
 

Cash charges:

       

2017 charges

  $ 24  

Other non-cash charges

    3  

Total 2017 Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

  $ 27  

 

 
  Three months ended
March 31, 2016
 

Cash charges:

       

2016 charges

  $ 6  

Accelerated depreciation

    4  

Other non-cash charges

    1  

Total 2016 Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

  $ 11  

RESTRUCTURING ACTIVITIES

              In December 2014, we implemented a comprehensive restructuring program to improve the global competitiveness of our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions. As part of the program, we are reducing our workforce by approximately 900 positions. In connection with this restructuring program, we recorded restructuring expense of $3 million in 2016. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $4 million through the end of 2017.

              In February 2015, we announced a plan to close the black end manufacturing operations and ancillary activities at our Calais, France site, which will reduce our TiO 2 capacity by approximately 100,000 metric tons, or 11% of our European TiO 2 capacity. In connection with this closure, we recorded restructuring expense of $1 million in the three months ended March 31, 2016. All expected changes have been incurred as of the end of 2016.

              In March 2015, we implemented a restructuring program in our color pigments business. In connection with this restructuring, we recorded restructuring expenses of approximately $4 million and $3 million in the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $7 million through the end of 2017.

              In July 2016, we announced plans to close our Umbogintwini, South Africa TiO 2 manufacturing facility. As part of the program, we recorded restructuring expense of approximately $1 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $4 million through the end of the third quarter of 2018.

              In March 2017, we announced a plan to close the white end finishing and packaging operation of our TiO 2 manufacturing facility at our Calais, France site. The announced plan follows the 2015 closure of the black end manufacturing operations and would result in the closure of the entire facility.

F-18


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

5. RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND PLANT CLOSING COSTS (Continued)

In connection with this closure, we recorded restructuring expense of $22 million in the three months ended March 31, 2017. We recorded $4 million of accelerated depreciation on the remaining long-lived assets associated with this manufacturing facility during the three months ended March 31, 2016. We expect to incur additional charges of approximately $41 million through the end of 2021.

6. RELATED PARTY FINANCING

              Venator receives financing from Huntsman International and its subsidiaries, which are related parties. The financing relates to Venator's participation in a cash pooling program.

              Cash Pooling Program —Venator addresses cash flow needs by participating in a cash pooling program. The cash pool provides for the participating subsidiaries of Huntsman International to loan or borrow funds daily from the cash pool. The business records these transactions as either amounts receivable from affiliates or amounts payable to affiliates and reflects these transaction in "Net advances to affiliates" and "Net borrowings on affiliate accounts payable" in the investing and financing sections, respectively, in the combined statements of cash flows. Interest income is earned if Venator is a net lender to the cash pool and paid if Venator is a net borrower from the cash pool based on a variable interest rate determined from time to time by Huntsman International.

              Notes Receivable and Payable of Venator to Subsidiaries of Huntsman International —As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Venator had notes receivable outstanding from affiliates of $57 million each, and notes payable outstanding to affiliates totaling $894 million and $882 million, respectively. The borrowers and lenders are subsidiaries of Huntsman International and the notes are unsecured. Under the terms of the notes, Venator promises to pay interest on the unpaid principal amounts at a rate per annum as agreed upon from time to time by Huntsman International and Venator. As of March 31, 2017, the average interest rate on notes receivable and notes payable was 4%.

              A/R Programs —Certain of our entities participate in the accounts receivable securitization programs ("A/R Programs") sponsored by Huntsman International. Under the A/R Programs, these entities sell certain of their trade receivables to Huntsman International. Huntsman International grants an undivided interest in these receivables to a SPE, which serve as security for the issuance of debt of Huntsman International. These entities continue to service the securitized receivables. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Huntsman International had $123 million and $106 million, respectively, of net receivables in their A/R Programs and reflected on their balance sheet associated with Venator. The entities allocated losses on the A/R Programs for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 were $1 million and $1 million, respectively. The allocation of losses on sale of accounts receivable is based upon the pro-rata portion of total receivables sold into the securitization program as well as other program and interest expenses associated with the A/R Programs. On April 21, 2017, Huntsman International amended its accounts receivable securitization facilities, which among other things removed existing receivables sold into the program by the Pigments and Additives business. In addition, after April 21, 2017 receivables generated by the Pigments and Additives legal entities will no longer participate in the Huntsman A/R Program sponsored by Huntsman.

F-19


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

7. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

              Venator is exposed to market risks associated with foreign exchange risks. From time to time, Venator, through Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, will enter into hedging or derivative transactions to mitigate these exposures.

              Venator's cash flows and earnings are subject to fluctuations due to exchange rate variation. Venator's revenues and expenses are denominated in various foreign currencies. From time to time, Huntsman International, or its subsidiaries, on behalf of Venator, may enter into foreign currency derivative instruments to minimize the short-term impact of movements in foreign currency rates. Where practicable, Venator generally nets multicurrency cash balances among its subsidiaries to help reduce exposure to foreign currency exchange rates. Certain other exposures may be managed from time to time through financial market transactions, principally through the purchase of spot or forward foreign exchange contracts (generally with maturities of three months or less). Venator does not hedge its foreign currency exposures in a manner that would eliminate the effect of changes in exchange rates on its cash flows and earnings. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, on behalf of Venator, had approximately $63 million and $88 million in notional amount (in U.S. dollar equivalents) outstanding, respectively, in forward foreign currency contracts with a term of approximately one month.

8. INCOME TAXES

              Venator uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting purposes. Venator evaluates deferred tax assets to determine whether it is more likely than not that they will be realized. Valuation allowances are reviewed on a tax jurisdiction basis to analyze whether there is sufficient positive or negative evidence to support a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax assets for each jurisdiction. These conclusions require significant judgment. In evaluating the objective evidence that historical results provide, Venator considers the cyclicality of Venator and cumulative income or losses during the applicable period. Cumulative losses incurred over the period limits Venator's ability to consider other subjective evidence such as Venator's projections for the future. Changes in expected future income in applicable tax jurisdictions could affect the realization of deferred tax assets in those jurisdictions.

              We recorded income tax benefit of $1 million and $2 million for the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, respectively. Our tax expense is significantly affected by the mix of income and losses in tax jurisdictions in which we operate, as impacted by the presence of valuation allowances in certain tax jurisdictions.

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

              Guarantees —Substantially all of our U.S. operations and certain of their foreign subsidiary holdings fully and unconditionally guaranteed Huntsman International's outstanding notes. Subsequent to the business separation, such operations and entities will no longer guarantee Huntsman International's outstanding notes. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, Huntsman International and its guarantors had third-party debt outstanding of $3,814 million and $3,793 million, respectively. As of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, our U.S. operations and certain of our

F-20


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)

foreign subsidiaries had total assets, excluding intercompany amounts, of $458 million and $502 million, respectively.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

              Antitrust Matters —We were named as a defendant in consolidated class action civil antitrust suits filed on February 9 and 12, 2010 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland alleging that we, our co-defendants and other alleged co-conspirators, conspired to fix prices of TiO 2 sold in the U.S. between at least March 1, 2002 and the present. The other defendants named in this matter were E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont), Kronos Worldwide, Inc. ("Kronos") and National Titanium Dioxide Company, Ltd. ("Cristal") (formerly Millennium). On August 28, 2012, the court certified a class consisting of all U.S. customers who purchased TiO 2 directly from the defendants (the "Direct Purchasers") since February 1, 2003. On December 13, 2013, we and all other defendants settled the Direct Purchasers litigation and the court approved the settlement. We paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our combined financial statements.

              On November 22, 2013, we were named as a defendant in a civil antitrust suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota brought by a Direct Purchaser who opted out of the Direct Purchasers class litigation (the "Opt-Out Litigation"). On April 21, 2014, the court severed the claims against us from the other defendants sued and ordered our case transferred to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Subsequently, Kronos, another defendant, was also severed from the Minnesota case and claims against it were transferred and consolidated for trial with our case in the Southern District of Texas. On February 26, 2016, we reached an agreement to settle the Opt-Out litigation and subsequently paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our combined financial statements.

              We were also named as a defendant in a class action civil antitrust suit filed on March 15, 2013 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by the purchasers of products made from TiO 2 (the "Indirect Purchasers") making essentially the same allegations as did the Direct Purchasers. On October 14, 2014, plaintiffs filed their Second Amended Class Action Complaint narrowing the class of plaintiffs to those merchants and consumers of architectural coatings containing TiO 2 . On August 11, 2015, the court granted our motion to dismiss the Indirect Purchasers litigation with leave to amend the complaint. A Third Amended Class Action Complaint was filed on September 29, 2015 further limiting the class to consumers of architectural paints. Plaintiffs have raised state antitrust claims under the laws of 15 states, consumer protection claims under the laws of nine states, and unjust enrichment claims under the laws of 16 states. On November 4, 2015, we and our co-defendants filed another motion to dismiss. On June 13, 2016, the court substantially denied the motion to dismiss except as to consumer protection claims in one state. The parties are presently negotiating a settlement for an amount that would not be material to our combined financial statements.

              On August 23, 2016, we were named as a defendant in a fourth civil antitrust suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by an indirect purchaser of TiO 2 , Home Depot. Home Depot is an indirect purchaser of TiO 2 primarily through paints it purchases from various manufacturers. Home Depot makes the same claims as the Direct and Indirect Purchasers. On

F-21


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)

January 13, 2017, we filed a motion to dismiss the Home Depot case, which remains pending. We do not expect this matter to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

              These Indirect Purchasers seek to recover injunctive relief, treble damages or the maximum damages allowed by state law, costs of suit and attorneys' fees. We are not aware of any illegal conduct by us or any of our employees.

              Other Proceedings —We are a party to various other proceedings instituted by private plaintiffs, governmental authorities and others arising under provisions of applicable laws, including various environmental, products liability and other laws. Except as otherwise disclosed in these combined financial statements, we do not believe that the outcome of any of these matters will have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

10. ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY MATTERS

              Environmental, Health and Safety ("EHS") Capital Expenditures —We may incur future costs for capital improvements and general compliance under EHS laws, including costs to acquire, maintain and repair pollution control equipment. For the three months ended March 31, 2017 and 2016, our capital expenditures for EHS matters totaled $3 million and $5 million, respectively. Because capital expenditures for these matters are subject to evolving regulatory requirements and depend, in part, on the timing, promulgation and enforcement of specific requirements, our capital expenditures for EHS matters have varied significantly from year to year and we cannot provide assurance that our recent expenditures are indicative of future amounts we may spend related to EHS and other applicable laws.

              Environmental Reserves —We accrue liabilities relating to anticipated environmental cleanup obligations, site reclamation and closure costs, and known penalties. Liabilities are recorded when potential liabilities are either known or considered probable and can be reasonably estimated. Our liability estimates are calculated using present value techniques as appropriate and are based upon requirements placed upon us by regulators, available facts, existing technology, and past experience. The environmental liabilities do not include amounts recorded as asset retirement obligations. As of both March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, we had environmental reserves of $12 million. We may incur losses for environmental remediation.

              Environmental Matters —We have incurred and we may in the future incur, liability to investigate and clean up waste or contamination at our current or former facilities or facilities operated by third parties at which we may have disposed of waste or other materials. Similarly, we may incur costs for the cleanup of waste that was disposed of prior to the purchase of our businesses. Under some circumstances, the scope of our liability may extend to damages to natural resources.

              Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ("CERCLA") and similar state laws, a current or former owner or operator of real property in the U.S. may be liable for remediation costs regardless of whether the release or disposal of hazardous substances was in compliance with law at the time it occurred, and a current owner or operator may be liable regardless of whether it owned or operated the facility at the time of the release. Outside the U.S., analogous contaminated property laws, such as those in effect in France, can hold past owners and/or operators liable for remediation at former facilities. We have not been notified by third parties

F-22


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

10. ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY MATTERS (Continued)

of claims against us for cleanup liabilities at former facilities or third-party sites, including, but not limited to, sites listed under CERCLA.

              Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act in the U.S. and similar state laws, we may be required to remediate contamination originating from our properties as a condition to our hazardous waste permit. Some of our manufacturing sites have an extended history of industrial chemical manufacturing and use, including on-site waste disposal. We are aware of soil, groundwater or surface contamination from past operations at some of our sites, and we may find contamination at other sites in the future. Similar laws exist in a number of locations in which we currently operate, or previously operated, manufacturing facilities, such as France and Italy.

11. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

              Other comprehensive income (loss) consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  Foreign
currency
translation
adjustment(a)
  Pension and other
postretirement
benefits
adjustments,
net of tax(b)
  Other
comprehensive
income of
unconsolidated
affiliates
  Total   Amounts
attributable to
noncontrolling
interests
  Amounts
attributable to
Venator
 

Beginning balance, January 1, 2017

  $ (112 ) $ (306 ) $ (5 ) $ (423 ) $   $ (423 )

Other comprehensive income before reclassifications

    4             4         4  

Tax expense

    1             1         1  

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, gross(c)

        4         4         4  

Tax expense

                         

Net current-period other comprehensive income

    5     4         9         9  

Ending balance, March 31, 2017

  $ (107 ) $ (302 ) $ (5 ) $ (414 ) $   $ (414 )

F-23


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Continued)


 
  Foreign
currency
translation
adjustment(a)
  Pension and other
postretirement
benefits
adjustments,
net of tax(b)
  Other
comprehensive
income of
unconsolidated
affiliates
  Total   Amounts
attributable to
noncontrolling
interests
  Amounts
attributable to
Venator
 

Beginning balance, January 1, 2016

  $ (144 ) $ (252 ) $ (5 ) $ (401 ) $   $ (401 )

Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications

    (47 )   6         (41 )       (41 )

Tax benefit (expense)

        (1 )       (1 )       (1 )

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, gross(c)

        3         3         3  

Tax benefit

                         

Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income

    (47 )   8         (39 )       (39 )

Ending balance, March 31, 2016

  $ (191 ) $ (244 ) $ (5 ) $ (440 ) $   $ (440 )

(a)
Amounts are net of tax of $1 and nil as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016, respectively.

(b)
Amounts are net of tax of $56 each as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016.

F-24


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS) (Continued)

(c)
See table below for details about the amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss.
 
  Three
months
ended
March 31,
   
 
  Affected line item in the statement
where net income is presented
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss
Components(a):
  2017   2016

Amortization of pension and other postretirement benefits:

               

Actuarial loss

  $ 4   $ 3   (b)

Settlement loss

          (b)

    4     3   Total before tax

          Income tax (expense) benefit

Total reclassifications for the period

  $ 4   $ 3   Net of tax

(a)
Pension and other postretirement benefit amounts in parentheses indicate credits on our combined statements of operations.

(b)
These accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in the computation of net periodic pension costs.

12. OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION

              We derive our revenues, earnings and cash flows from the manufacture and sale of a wide variety of commodity chemical products. We have reported our operations through our two segments, Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives, and organized our business and derived our operating segments around differences in product lines. We also conduct other business within components of legal entities we operated in conjunction with Huntsman businesses, and such businesses are included within the corporate and other line item below.

              The major product groups of each reportable operating segment are as follows:

Segment
  Product Group
Titanium Dioxide   titanium dioxide
Performance Additives   functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment chemicals

              Sales between segments are generally recognized at external market prices and are eliminated in consolidation. Adjusted EBITDA is presented as a measure of the financial performance of our global business units and for reporting the results of our operating segments. The revenues and

F-25


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)

Adjusted EBITDA for each of the two reportable operating segments are as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Three months ended
March 31,
 
 
  2017   2016  

Revenues:

             

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 385   $ 392  

Performance Additives

    152     148  

Corporate and other

    32     45  

Total

  $ 569   $ 585  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(1)

             

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 48   $ (3 )

Performance Additives

    21     18  

Corporate and other

    (8 )   (10 )

Total

  $ 61   $ 5  

Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net loss:

             

Interest expense

    (14 )   (15 )

Interest income

    2     4  

Income tax benefit

    1     2  

Depreciation and amortization

    (30 )   (24 )

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    3     2  

Other adjustments:

             

Acquisition and integration expenses

        (6 )

Certain legal settlements and related expenses

        (1 )

Amortization of pension and postretirement actuarial losses

    (4 )   (3 )

Net plant incident costs

    (5 )   (1 )

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    (27 )   (11 )

Net loss

  $ (13 ) $ (48 )

(1)
Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) of Venator before interest, income tax, depreciation and amortization and net income attributable to noncontrolling interests, as well as eliminating the following adjustments from net income (loss): (a) acquisition and integration expenses; (b) purchase accounting adjustments; (c) gain (loss) on disposition of businesses/assets; (d) certain legal settlements and related expenses; (e) amortization of pension and postretirement actuarial losses; (f) net plant incident costs; and (g) restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs.

13. RESTATEMENT OF CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

              We identified errors within our previously issued condensed combined statements of cash flows related to classification of affiliate transactions which were previously presented as cash flows from

F-26


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO UNAUDITED CONDENSED COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

13. RESTATEMENT OF CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)

operating activities. We have concluded that the previously issued condensed combined statements of cash flows for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016 were materially misstated and require restatement. There was no effect on Venator's previously reported condensed combined balance sheets as of March 31, 2017 and December 31, 2016 and the condensed combined statements of operations, comprehensive loss and equity for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016. The schedule below provides a summary of the impact of these restatement adjustments on our condensed combined statements of cash flows for the three-month periods ended March 31, 2017 and 2016:

 
  Three Months Ended
March 31, 2017
 
 
  As Restated   As Previously
Reported
 
 
  (in millions)
 

Combined Statements of Cash Flows:

             

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

             

Accounts payable

  $ (2 ) $ (148 )

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    22     (124 )

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

             

Net advances to affiliates

    (90 )    

Net cash used in investing activities

    (59 )   31  

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

             

Net borrowings on affiliate accounts payable

    45      

Net change in parent company investment

        101  

Net cash provided by financing activities

    41     97  

 

 
  Three Months Ended
March 31, 2016
 
 
  As Restated   As Previously
Reported
 
 
  (in millions)
 

Combined Statements of Cash Flows:

             

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

             

Accounts payable

  $ (10 ) $ 79  

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    (47 )   42  

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

             

Net advances to affiliates

    (3 )    

Net cash used in investing activities

    (37 )   (34 )

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

             

Net borrowings on affiliate accounts payable

    93      

Net change in parent company investment

        1  

Net cash provided by financing activities

    90     (2 )

******

F-27


Table of Contents


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors of
Huntsman Corporation:

              We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheets of Venator (comprising the combined operations and legal entities of the Pigments & Additives division and certain other operations of Huntsman Corporation) as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the related combined statements of operations, comprehensive loss, equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016. Our audits also included Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, and 2014 (the "financial statement schedule"). These financial statements and financial statement schedule are the responsibility of Huntsman Corporation's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these combined financial statements and financial statement schedule based on our audits.

              We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) and in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. Venator is not required to have, nor have we been engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of Venator's internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

              In our opinion, such combined financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Venator as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America. Also, in our opinion, such financial statement schedule, when considered in relation to the basic combined financial statements taken as a whole, presents fairly, in all material respects, the information set forth therein.

              As discussed in Note 1 to the combined financial statements, the combined financial statements include allocations of direct and indirect corporate expenses from Huntsman Corporation and are presented on a stand-alone basis as if Venator's operations had been conducted independently from Huntsman Corporation; however, Venator did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the combined financial statements may not be fully indicative of Venator's financial position, results of operations and cash flows as an unaffiliated company from Huntsman Corporation.

              As discussed in Note 25 to the combined financial statements, the accompanying combined statements of cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2016 have been restated to correct a misstatement.

/s/ DELOITTE & TOUCHE LLP
Houston, Texas
May 5, 2017 (June 12, 2017 as to the effects of the restatement discussed in Note 25)

F-28


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in millions)

 
  December 31,
2016
  December 31,
2015
 

ASSETS

             

Current assets:

             

Cash and cash equivalents(a)

  $ 30   $ 22  

Accounts receivable (net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $5 each)(a)

    258     260  

Accounts receivable from affiliates

    303     464  

Inventories(a)

    434     571  

Prepaid expenses

    11     50  

Other current assets

    60     65  

Total current assets

    1,096     1,432  

Property, plant and equipment, net(a)

    1,198     1,327  

Intangible assets, net(a)

    23     28  

Goodwill

    2     2  

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

    85     98  

Deferred income taxes

    163     162  

Notes receivable from affiliates

    57     327  

Other noncurrent assets(a)

    35     37  

Total assets

  $ 2,659   $ 3,413  

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

             

Current liabilities:

             

Accounts payable(a)

  $ 303   $ 317  

Accounts payable to affiliates

    705     623  

Accrued liabilities(a)

    156     259  

Current portion of debt(a)

    10     9  

Total current liabilities

    1,174     1,208  

Long-term debt

    13     17  

Debt to affiliates

    882     1,027  

Deferred income taxes

    12     26  

Other noncurrent liabilities

    401     407  

Total liabilities

    2,482     2,685  

Commitments and contingencies (Notes 21 and 22)

             

Equity

             

Parent's net investment and advances

    588     1,112  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

    (423 )   (401 )

Total Venator

    165     711  

Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries

    12     17  

Total equity

    177     728  

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 2,659   $ 3,413  

(a)
At December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively, $4 and $7 of cash and cash equivalents, $6 and $4 of accounts receivable (net), $1 each of inventories, $4 and $5 of property, plant and equipment (net), $20 and $23 of intangible assets (net), $1 each of accounts payable, $4 and $3 of accrued liabilities, and $2 and $1 of current portion of debt from consolidated variable interest entities are included in the respective balance sheet captions above. See note "7. Variable Interest Entities."

   

See notes to combined financial statements.

F-29


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in millions)

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Revenues:

                   

Trade sales, services and fees, net

  $ 2,249   $ 2,270   $ 1,654  

Related party sales

    60     60     75  

Total revenues

    2,309     2,330     1,729  

Cost of goods sold

    2,134     2,192     1,637  

Operating expenses:

                   

Selling, general, and administrative (includes corporate allocations of $111, $96 and $86, respectively)

    240     271     199  

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    35     223     62  

Other (income) expense, net

    (46 )   (3 )   7  

Total expenses

    229     491     268  

Operating loss

    (54 )   (353 )   (176 )

Interest expense

    (59 )   (52 )   (25 )

Interest income

    15     22     23  

Other expense

    (1 )       (1 )

Loss before income taxes

    (99 )   (383 )   (179 )

Income tax benefit

    22     31     17  

Net loss

    (77 )   (352 )   (162 )

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    (10 )   (7 )   (2 )

Net loss attributable to Venator

  $ (87 ) $ (359 ) $ (164 )

   

See notes to combined financial statements.

F-30


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

(Dollars in millions)

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Net loss

  $ (77 ) $ (352 ) $ (162 )

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:

                   

Foreign currency translation adjustment

    32     (71 )   (93 )

Pension and other postretirement benefits adjustments

    (54 )   (10 )   (16 )

Other, net

        (1 )   (2 )

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax:

    (22 )   (82 )   (111 )

Comprehensive loss

    (99 )   (434 )   (273 )

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest

    (10 )   (7 )   (2 )

Comprehensive loss attributable to Venator

  $ (109 ) $ (441 ) $ (275 )

   

See notes to combined financial statements.

F-31


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF EQUITY

(Dollars in millions)

 
  Venator Equity    
   
 
 
  Parent's Net
Investment and
Advances
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Loss
  Noncontrolling
Interest in
Subsidiaries
  Total  

Balance, January 1, 2014

  $ 1,454   $ (208 ) $ 1   $ 1,247  

Net loss

    (164 )       2     (162 )

Net changes in other comprehensive loss

        (111 )       (111 )

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

            (1 )   (1 )

Acquisition of a business

            16     16  

Net changes in parent's net investment and advances

    424         2     426  

Balance, December 31, 2014

    1,714     (319 )   20     1,415  

Net loss

    (359 )       7     (352 )

Net changes in other comprehensive loss

        (82 )       (82 )

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

            (8 )   (8 )

Net changes in parent's net investment and advances

    (243 )       (2 )   (245 )

Balance, December 31, 2015

    1,112     (401 )   17     728  

Net loss

    (87 )       10     (77 )

Net changes in other comprehensive loss

        (22 )       (22 )

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interests

            (14 )   (14 )

Net changes in parent's net investment and advances

    (437 )       (1 )   (438 )

Balance, December 31, 2016

  $ 588   $ (423 ) $ 12   $ 177  

   

See notes to combined financial statements.

F-32


Table of Contents


VENATOR
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in millions)

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  
 
  (As Restated)
  (As Restated)
  (As Restated)
 

Operating Activities:

                   

Net loss

  $ (77 ) $ (352 ) $ (162 )

Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash provided by operating activities:

                   

Depreciation and amortization

    120     107     93  

Deferred income taxes

    (16 )   (29 )   (24 )

(Gain) loss on disposal of assets

    (22 )   2     (1 )

Noncash restructuring charges and impairment of assets

    10     104      

Noncash interest

    44     33     2  

Noncash gain on foreign currency transactions

    (9 )   (4 )    

Other, net

    4     1     5  

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

                   

Accounts receivable

    (13 )   29     30  

Inventories

    110     95     (7 )

Prepaid expenses

    1     (42 )   (1 )

Other current assets

    (4 )   10     (4 )

Other noncurrent assets

    (9 )   2     (9 )

Accounts payable

    9     (24 )   11  

Accrued liabilities

    (36 )   35     49  

Other noncurrent liabilities

    (15 )   (30 )   (45 )

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    97     (63 )   (63 )

Investing Activities:

                   

Capital expenditures

    (113 )   (211 )   (142 )

Cash received from unconsolidated affiliates

    32     48     48  

Net (advances to) payments from affiliates

    (17 )   66     83  

Investment in unconsolidated affiliates

    (29 )   (42 )   (37 )

Cash acquired from the acquisition of business

            76  

Proceeds from sale of businesses/assets

    9         1  

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

    (118 )   (139 )   29  

Financing Activities:

                   

Proceeds from short-term debt

    1     1      

Repayments of short-term debt

        (1 )    

Net borrowings from affiliate accounts payable

    46     204     53  

Principal payments on long-term debt

    (3 )   (2 )    

Dividends paid to noncontrolling interest

    (14 )   (8 )   (1 )

Net cash provided by financing activities

    30     194     52  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

    (1 )   (3 )   (2 )

Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

    8     (11 )   16  

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

    22     33     17  

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

  $ 30   $ 22   $ 33  

Supplemental cash flow information:

                   

Cash paid for interest

  $ 5   $ 4   $ 5  

Cash paid (received) for income taxes

    7     8     (2 )

Noncash investing and financing activities:

                   

As of the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 the amount of capital expenditures in accounts payable was $21, $25 and $36, respectively.

                   

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we received noncash settlements of notes receivable from affiliates of $270 and $256, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2014, we issued noncash notes receivable to affiliates of $244.

                   

During the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, we settled noncash long-term debt to affiliates of $145 and $39, respectively. During the year ended December 31, 2014, we issued noncash long-term debt to affiliates of $811.

                   

During the year ended December 31, 2014, Huntsman Corporation made a noncash capital contribution of $960 to contribute the Rockwood Acquisition to Venator.

                   

   

See notes to combined financial statements.

F-33


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

              General —For convenience in this report, the terms "our," "us" or "we" may be used to refer to Venator and, unless the context otherwise requires, its subsidiaries.

              Description of Business —Venator (comprising the combined operations and legal entities of the Pigments & Additives division and certain other operations of Huntsman Corporation, or Huntsman) operates in two segments: Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives. The Titanium Dioxide segment manufactures and sells primarily titanium dioxide ("TiO 2 "), and has global operations operating eight TiO 2 manufacturing facilities, predominantly in Europe. The Performance Additives segment manufactures and sells functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment chemicals. This segment operates 19 color pigments, functional additives, water treatment and timber treatment manufacturing and processing facilities in Europe, North America, Asia and Australia.

              Recent Developments —In February 2017, Huntsman filed suit against the legacy owner and certain former executives of Rockwood, primarily related to the failure of new technology that Huntsman acquired in the Rockwood acquisition that was to be implemented at the new Augusta facility and subsequently at other facilities. Huntsman is seeking various forms of legal remedy, including compensatory damages, punitive damages, expectation damages, consequential damages and restitution. Venator is not party to the suit.

              On January 30, 2017, Venator's TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Pori, Finland experienced fire damage and is currently not fully operational. We are committed to repairing the facility as quickly as possible. The site is insured for property damage as well as business interruption losses.

              Basis of Presentation —Venator's combined financial statements have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in the United States ("GAAP" or "U.S. GAAP"). Venator's operations were included in Huntsman Corporation's financial results in different legal forms, including but not limited to: (1) wholly-owned subsidiaries for which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses were the sole businesses; (2) legal entities which are comprised of other businesses and include the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives businesses; and (3) variable interest entities in which the Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives and other businesses are the primary beneficiaries. The combined financial statements include all revenues, costs, assets, liabilities and cash flows directly attributable to Venator, as well as allocations of direct and indirect corporate expenses, which are based upon an allocation method that in the opinion of management is reasonable. Such corporate cost allocation transactions between Venator and Huntsman Corporation have been considered to be effectively settled for cash in the combined financial statements at the time the transaction is recorded and the net effect of the settlement of these intercompany transactions is reflected in the combined statements of cash flows as a financing activity. The combined financial statements have been prepared from Huntsman Corporation's historical accounting records and are presented on a stand-alone basis as if Venator's operations had been conducted separately from Huntsman Corporation; however, Venator did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the combined financial statements may not be indicative of the financial position, results of operations and cash flows had Venator been a stand-alone company.

F-34


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

              For purposes of these combined financial statements, all significant transactions with Huntsman International LLC ("Huntsman International"), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman through which Huntsman operates all of its businesses, have been included in group equity. All intercompany transactions within the combined business have been eliminated. Additional disclosures are included in note "20. Related Party Transactions."

              Huntsman Corporation's executive, information technology, environmental, health and safety and certain other corporate departments perform certain administrative and other services for Venator. Additionally, Huntsman Corporation performs certain site services for Venator. Expenses incurred by Huntsman Corporation and allocated to Venator are determined based on specific services provided or are allocated based on Venator's total revenues, total assets, and total employees in proportion to those of Huntsman Corporation. Management believes that such expense allocations are reasonable. Corporate allocations include allocated selling, general, and administrative expenses of $111 million, $96 million and $86 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

              Asset Retirement Obligations —Venator accrues for asset retirement obligations, which consist primarily of asbestos abatement costs, demolition and removal costs, leasehold remediation costs and landfill closure costs, in the period in which the obligations are incurred. Asset retirement obligations are initially recorded at estimated fair value. When the related liability is initially recorded, Venator capitalizes the cost by increasing the carrying amount of the related long-lived asset. Over time, the liability is accreted to its estimated settlement value and the capitalized cost is depreciated over the useful life of the related asset. Upon settlement of the liability, Venator will recognize a gain or loss for any difference between the settlement amount and the liability recorded.

              Carrying Value of Long-Lived Assets —Venator reviews long-lived assets for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of these assets may not be recoverable. Recoverability is based upon current and anticipated undiscounted cash flows, and Venator recognizes an impairment when such estimated cash flows are less than the carrying value of the asset. Measurement of the amount of impairment, if any, is based upon the difference between carrying value and fair value. Fair value is generally estimated by discounting estimated future cash flows using a discount rate commensurate with the risks involved.

              Cash and Cash Equivalents —Venator considers cash in bank accounts and short-term highly liquid investments with remaining maturities of three months or less at the date of purchase to be cash and cash equivalents. Venator's day-to-day funding requirements are primarily met by the Huntsman International treasury function.

              Venator participates in Huntsman International's cash pooling program. The cash pooling program is an intercompany borrowing arrangement designed to reduce Venator's dependence on external short-term borrowing. See note "14. Related Party Financing."

              Cost of Goods Sold —Venator classifies the costs of manufacturing and distributing its products as cost of goods sold. Manufacturing costs include variable costs, primarily raw materials and energy, and fixed expenses directly associated with production. Manufacturing costs include, among other things, plant site operating costs and overhead costs (including depreciation), production planning and

F-35


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

logistics costs, repair and maintenance costs, plant site purchasing costs, and engineering and technical support costs. Distribution, freight, and warehousing costs are also included in cost of goods sold.

              Derivative Transactions —All derivatives are recorded on Venator's balance sheet at fair value. Changes in fair value of derivatives are recognized in earnings. See note "16. Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities."

              Environmental Expenditures —Environmental-related restoration and remediation costs are recorded as liabilities when site restoration and environmental remediation and cleanup obligations are either known or considered probable and the related costs can be reasonably estimated. Other environmental expenditures that are principally maintenance or preventative in nature are recorded when expended and incurred and are expensed or capitalized as appropriate. See note "22. Environmental, Health and Safety Matters."

              Financial Instruments —The carrying amounts reported in the balance sheets for cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, amounts receivable from affiliates, accounts payable, amounts payable to affiliates, and accrued liabilities approximate their fair value because of the immediate or short-term maturity of these financial instruments. The fair value of non-qualified employee benefit plan investments is estimated using prevailing market prices. The estimated fair values of Venator's long-term debt are based on quoted market prices for the identical liability when traded as an asset in an active market. Such fair value approximates carrying value.

              Foreign Currency Translation —The accounts of Venator's operating subsidiaries outside of the U.S. consider the functional currency to be the currency of the economic environment in which they operate. Accordingly, assets and liabilities are translated at rates prevailing at the balance sheet date. Revenues, expenses, gains and losses are translated at a weighted average rate for the period. Cumulative translation adjustments are recorded to equity as a component of accumulated other comprehensive loss.

              Foreign currency transaction gains and losses are recorded in other (income) expense in the combined statements of operations and were net gains of $9 million, $4 million and $1 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

              Income Taxes —Venator is comprised of operations in various tax jurisdictions. Venator's operations were included in Huntsman Corporation's financial results in different legal forms, including but not limited to wholly-owned subsidiaries for which Venator was the sole business, components of legal entities in which Venator operated in conjunction with other Huntsman Corporation businesses and variable interest entities in which Venator is the primary beneficiary.

              Similarly, Venator's tax obligations and filings were included in different legal forms, including but not limited to legal entities in certain countries where fiscal unity or consolidation is allowed or required with other Huntsman Corporation businesses, components of legal entities in which Venator operated in conjunction with other Huntsman Corporation businesses, and legal entities which file separate tax returns in their respective tax jurisdictions.

F-36


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

              The combined financial statements have been prepared from Huntsman Corporation's historical accounting records and are presented on a stand-alone basis as if Venator's operations had been conducted separately from Huntsman; however, Venator did not operate as a separate, stand-alone entity for the periods presented and, as such, the tax results and attributes presented in these combined financial statements would not be indicative of the income tax expense or benefit, income tax related assets and liabilities and cash taxes had Venator been a stand-alone company.

              The combined financial statements have been prepared under the currently anticipated legal structure of Venator such that the historical results of legal entities are presented as follows: The historical tax results of legal entities which file separate tax returns in their respective tax jurisdictions and which need no restructuring before being contributed are included without adjustment, including the inclusion of any currently held subsidiaries. The historical tax results of legal entities in which Venator operated in conjunction with other Huntsman Corporation businesses for which new legal entities will be formed for Venator operations are presented on a stand-alone basis as if their operations had been conducted separately from Huntsman and any adjustments to current taxes payable have been treated as adjustments to parent's net investment and advances. The historical tax results of legal entities in which Venator operated in conjunction with other Huntsman Corporation businesses for which the Huntsman business will be transferred out have been presented without adjustment, including the historical results of the Huntsman businesses which are unrelated to Venator operating businesses.

              Pursuant to tax-sharing agreements, subsidiaries of Huntsman Corporation are charged or credited, in general, with an amount of income taxes as if they filed separate income tax returns. Adjustments to current income taxes payable by Venator have been treated as adjustments to parent's net investment and advances.

              Venator includes the U.S. Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives subsidiaries of Huntsman International which are treated for U.S. tax purposes as divisions of Huntsman International. Huntsman International is included in the U.S. consolidated tax return of its parent, Huntsman Corporation. A 2% U.S. state income tax rate (net of federal benefit) was estimated for Venator based upon the estimated apportionment factors and actual income tax rates in state tax jurisdictions where it has nexus. U.S. foreign tax credits relating to taxes paid by non-U.S. business entities have been generated and utilized by Huntsman. On a separate entity basis, these foreign tax credits would not have been generated or utilized, therefore, no additional allocation of Huntsman foreign tax credits was necessary. Additionally, Huntsman had no U.S. net operating loss carryforward amounts ("NOLs") or similar attributes to allocate. Venator believes this methodology is reasonable and complies with Staff Accounting Bulletin Topic 1B, Allocation of Expenses and Related Disclosure in Financial Statements of Subsidiaries, Divisions or Lesser Business Components of Another Entity .

              Venator uses the asset and liability method of accounting for income taxes. Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effects of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial and tax reporting purposes. Venator evaluates deferred tax assets to determine whether it is more likely than not that they will be realized. Valuation allowances are reviewed on a tax jurisdiction basis to analyze whether there is sufficient positive or negative evidence to support a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax assets for each jurisdiction. These

F-37


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

conclusions require significant judgment. In evaluating the objective evidence that historical results provide, Venator considers the cyclicality of Venator and cumulative income or losses during the applicable period. Cumulative losses incurred over the period limits Venator's ability to consider other subjective evidence such as Venator's projections for the future. Changes in expected future income in applicable tax jurisdictions could affect the realization of deferred tax assets in those jurisdictions.

              As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no unremitted earnings of subsidiaries to consider for indefinite reinvestment. Going forward, to the extent future U.S. cash flow needs require distributions from foreign subsidiaries, based on existing law, we expect to have tax attributes (at least up to the amount of anticipated external Venator debt) that could allow repatriation of earnings to the U.S. without incremental U.S. income tax.

              The U.S. tax expense, deferred tax assets, and deferred tax liabilities in these financial statements do not necessarily reflect the tax expense, deferred tax assets, or deferred tax liabilities that would have resulted had Venator not been operated as a U.S. income tax branch structure in combination with Huntsman Corporation. By illustration, there are no net operating losses to be allocated to Venator given the overall profitability of the Huntsman group in the U.S.

              The tax provision is not intended in any way to be representative of future taxes. Further, the tax attributes presented reflect calculated unaffiliated results based upon the legal entity structure of Venator and using the stand-alone methodology. The actual income tax attributes that would be allocated under the various required tax laws to the specific legal entities comprising Venator would be different than the amounts presented.

              Accounting for uncertainty in income taxes prescribes a recognition threshold and measurement attribute for the financial statement recognition and measurement of a tax position taken or expected to be taken in a tax return. The application of income tax law is inherently complex. Venator is required to determine if an income tax position meets the criteria of more-likely-than-not to be realized based on the merits of the position under tax law, in order to recognize an income tax benefit. This requires Venator to make significant judgments regarding the merits of income tax positions and the application of income tax law. Additionally, if a tax position meets the recognition criteria of more-likely-than-not, Venator is required to make judgments and apply assumptions in order to measure the amount of the tax benefits to recognize. The judgments are based on the probability of the amount of tax benefits that would be realized if the tax position was challenged by the taxing authorities. Interpretations and guidance surrounding income tax laws and regulations change over time. As a consequence, changes in assumptions and judgments can materially affect amounts recognized in the combined financial statements.

F-38


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

              Intangible Assets and Goodwill —Intangible assets are stated at cost (fair value at the time of acquisition) and are amortized using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives or the life of the related agreement as follows:

Patents and technology   5 - 30 years
Trademarks   9 - 30 years
Licenses and other agreements   5 - 15 years
Other intangibles   5 - 15 years

              Goodwill represents costs in excess of fair values assigned to the underlying net assets of acquired businesses. Goodwill is not subject to any method of amortization, but is tested for impairment annually (at the beginning of the third quarter) and when events and circumstances change that would more-likely-than-not reduce the fair value of a reporting unit below its carrying amount. When the fair value is less than the carrying value of the related reporting unit, Venator is required to reduce the amount of goodwill through a charge to earnings. Fair value is estimated using the market approach, as well as the income approach based on discounted cash flow projections. Goodwill has been assigned to reporting units for purposes of impairment testing.

              Inventories —Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market, with cost determined using the first-in, first-out and average costs methods for different components of inventory.

              Legal Costs —Venator expenses legal costs, including those legal costs incurred in connection with a loss contingency, as incurred.

              Property, Plant, and Equipment —Property, plant, and equipment is stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives or lease term as follows:

Buildings and equipment   5 - 50 years
Plant and equipment   3 - 30 years
Furniture, fixtures and leasehold improvements   5 - 20 years

              Normal maintenance and repairs of plant and equipment are charged to expense as incurred. Renewals, betterments, and major repairs that significantly extend the useful life of the assets are capitalized and the assets replaced, if any, are retired.

              Research and Development —Research and development costs are expensed as incurred and recorded in selling, general and administrative expense. Research and development costs charged to expense were $20 million, $21 million and $13 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

              Revenue Recognition —Venator generates substantially all of its revenues through sales in the open market and long-term supply agreements. Venator recognizes revenue when it is realized or realizable and earned. Revenue for product sales is recognized when a sales arrangement exists, risk and title to the product transfer to the customer, collectibility is reasonably assured, and pricing is fixed or determinable. The transfer of risk and title to the product to the customer usually occurs at the time

F-39


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. DESCRIPTION OF BUSINESS, RECENT DEVELOPMENTS, BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES (Continued)

shipment is made. The revenue recognition policy for sales to related parties does not differ from the policy described above.

              Securitization of Accounts Receivable —Venator participates in A/R Programs sponsored by Huntsman International. Under the A/R Programs, Venator sells certain of its trade receivables to Huntsman International. Huntsman International grants an undivided interest in these receivables to bankruptcy remote special purpose entities ("SPE"), which serve as security for the issuance of debt of Huntsman International. See note "14. Related Party Financing."

              Subsequent Events —Venator evaluated material subsequent events through May 5, 2017, the date these combined financial statements were available to be issued.

              Use of Estimates —The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

Accounting Pronouncements Pending Adoption in Future Periods

              In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606) , outlining a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenues arising from contracts with customers and this guidance supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-14, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Deferral of the Effective Date , deferring the effective date of ASU No. 2014-09 for all entities by one year. Further, in March 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-08, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Principal versus Agent Considerations (Reporting Revenue Gross versus Net) , clarifying the implementation guidance on principal versus agent considerations, in April 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-10, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606): Identifying Performance Obligations and Licensing , clarifying the implementation guidance on identifying performance obligations in a contract and determining whether an entity's promise to grant a license provides a customer with either a right to use the entity's intellectual property (which is satisfied at a point in time) or a right to access the entity's intellectual property (which is satisfied over time), in May 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-12, Revenue from Customers (Topic 606): Narrow-Scope Improvements and Practical Expedients , providing clarifications and practical expedients for certain narrow aspects in Topic 606, and in December 2016, the FASB issued ASU 2016-20, Technical Corrections and Improvements to Topic 606, Revenue from Contracts with Customers . The amendments in these ASUs are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within that reporting period. The amendments in ASU No. 2014-09, ASU No. 2016-08, ASU No. 2016-10, ASU No. 2016-12 and ASU No. 2016-20 should be applied retrospectively, and early application is permitted. We are currently performing the analysis identifying areas that will be impacted by the adoption of the amendments in ASU No. 2014-09, ASU No. 2016-08, ASU No. 2016-10, ASU No. 2016-12 and ASU No. 2016-20 on our combined financial statements. The

F-40


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Continued)

standard will be adopted in our fiscal year 2018 and we have elected the modified retrospective approach as the transition method.

              In July 2015, the FASB issued ASU No. 2015-11, Inventory (Topic 330): Simplifying the Measurement of Inventory . The amendments in this ASU do not apply to inventory that is measured using last-in first-out ("LIFO") or the retail inventory method, but rather does apply to all other inventory, which includes inventory that is measured using first-in first-out or average cost. An entity should measure in scope inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realizable value is the estimated selling prices in the ordinary course of business, less reasonably predictable costs of completion, disposal, and transportation. Subsequent measurement is unchanged for inventory measured using LIFO or the retail inventory method. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2016. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively with earlier application permitted as of the beginning of an interim or annual reporting period. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In February 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842) . The amendments in this ASU will increase transparency and comparability among entities by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this ASU will require lessees to recognize in the statement of financial position a liability to make lease payments (the lease liability) and a right-of-use asset representing its right to use the underlying asset for the lease term. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2018. Early application of the amendments in this ASU is permitted for all entities. Reporting entities are required to recognize and measure leases under these amendments at the beginning of the earliest period presented using a modified retrospective approach. We are currently evaluating the impact of the adoption of the amendments in this ASU on our combined financial statements and believe, based on our preliminary assessment, that we will record significant additional right-to-use assets and lease obligations.

              In August 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-15, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments . The amendments in this ASU clarify and include specific guidance to address diversity in how certain cash receipts and cash payments are presented and classified in the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2017. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The amendments in this ASU should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In October 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-16, Income Taxes (Topic 740): Intra-Entity Transfers of Assets Other Than Inventory . The amendments in this ASU require entities to recognize the current and deferred income taxes for an intra-entity transfer of an asset other than inventory when the transfer occurs, as opposed to deferring the recognition of the income tax consequences until the asset has been sold to an outside party. The amendments in this ASU are effective for annual reporting periods beginning after December 31, 2017, including interim reporting periods within those annual reporting periods. Early adoption is permitted for all entities as of the beginning of an annual reporting

F-41


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS (Continued)

period for which financial statements (interim or annual) have not been issued or made available for issuance. The amendments in this ASU should be applied on a modified retrospective basis through a cumulative-effect adjustment directly to retained earnings as of the beginning of the period of adoption. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In November 2016, the FASB issued ASU No. 2016-18, Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Restricted Cash . The amendments in this ASU require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim period within those fiscal years. Early adoption is permitted, including adoption in an interim period. The amendments in this ASU should be applied using a retrospective transition method to each period presented. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

              In January 2017, the FASB issued ASU No. 2017-01, Business Combinations (Topic 805): Clarifying the Definition of a Business . The amendments in this ASU clarify the definition of a business with the objective of adding guidance to assist entities with evaluating whether transactions should be accounted for as acquisitions or disposals of assets or businesses. The amendments in this ASU are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, including interim periods within those fiscal years. Early application is permitted. The amendments in this ASU should be applied prospectively on or after the effective date. No disclosures are required at transition. We do not expect the adoption of the amendments in this ASU to have a significant impact on our combined financial statements.

3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

ROCKWOOD ACQUISITION

              On October 1, 2014, Huntsman completed the Rockwood acquisition. Huntsman paid $1.02 billion in cash and assumed certain unfunded pension liabilities in connection with the Rockwood acquisition and subsequently contributed these businesses to our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions. The acquisition was financed using a bank term loan. Transaction costs charged to expense related to this acquisition were approximately nil, nil and $24 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively, and were recorded in selling, general and administrative expenses in the combined statements of operations.

              The following businesses were acquired from Rockwood:

    TiO 2 , with strong specialty business in fibers, inks, pharmaceuticals, food and cosmetics;

    functional additives made from barium and zinc based inorganics used to make colors more brilliant, primarily in plastics, coatings, films, food, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and paper;

F-42


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Continued)

    color pigments made from synthetic iron-oxide and other non-TiO 2 inorganic pigments used by manufacturers of coatings and colorants;

    timber treatment wood protection chemicals used primarily in residential and commercial applications

    water treatment products used to improve water purity in industrial, commercial and municipal applications; and

    specialty automotive molded components.

              In connection with securing certain regulatory approvals required to complete the Rockwood acquisition, we sold our TiO 2 TR52 product line used in printing inks to Henan in December 2014. The sale did not include any manufacturing assets but does include an agreement to supply TR52 product to Henan during a transitional period.

              We have accounted for the Rockwood acquisition using the acquisition method. As such, we analyzed the fair value of tangible and intangible assets acquired and liabilities assumed. The allocation of acquisition cost to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed is summarized as follows (dollars in millions):

Cash paid for Rockwood Acquisition in 2014

  $ 1,038  

Purchase price adjustment received in 2015

    (18 )

Net acquisition cost

  $ 1,020  

Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed:

       

Cash

  $ 77  

Accounts receivable

    220  

Inventories

    401  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

    55  

Property, plant and equipment

    665  

Intangible assets

    31  

Deferred income taxes, non-current

    106  

Other assets

    8  

Accounts payable

    (146 )

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

    (106 )

Long-term debt, non-current

    (3 )

Pension and related liabilities

    (233 )

Deferred income taxes, non-current

    (9 )

Other liabilities

    (30 )

Total fair value of net assets acquired

    1,036  

Noncontrolling interest

    (16 )

Total

  $ 1,020  

              During the second quarter of 2015, we received $18 million related to the settlement of certain purchase price adjustments. As a result of the finalization of the valuation of the assets and liabilities,

F-43


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. BUSINESS COMBINATIONS (Continued)

reallocations were made in certain property, plant and equipment, deferred tax, accrued liability and other long-term liability balances. None of the fair value of this acquisition was allocated to goodwill. Intangible assets acquired consist primarily of developed technology, trademarks and customer relationships, all of which are being amortized over nine years. The noncontrolling interest primarily relates to Viance, a 50%-owned joint venture with Dow Chemical acquired as part of the Rockwood acquisition. The noncontrolling interest was valued at 50% of the fair value of the net assets of Viance as of October 1, 2014, as dictated by the ownership interest percentages. If the Rockwood acquisition were to have occurred on January 1, 2014, the following estimated pro forma revenues and net loss attributable to Venator would have been reported (dollars in millions):

 
  Pro Forma  
 
  Year ended
December 31,
2014
(Unaudited)
 

Revenues

  $ 2,875  

Net loss attributable to Venator

    (65 )

4. INVENTORIES

              Inventories at December 31, 2016 and 2015 consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Raw materials and supplies

  $ 138   $ 182  

Work in process

    47     72  

Finished goods

    249     317  

Total

  $ 434   $ 571  

5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

              The cost and accumulated depreciation of property, plant and equipment at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Land and land improvements

  $ 96   $ 79  

Buildings

    222     190  

Plant and equipment

    1,899     1,857  

Construction in progress

    106     316  

Total

    2,323     2,442  

Less accumulated depreciation

    (1,125 )   (1,115 )

Property, plant, and equipment—net

  $ 1,198   $ 1,327  

F-44


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

5. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT (Continued)

              Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $116 million, $106 million and $90 million, respectively.

6. INVESTMENT IN UNCONSOLIDATED AFFILIATES

              Investments in companies in which we exercise significant influence, but do not control, are accounted for using the equity method. Investments in companies in which we do not exercise significant influence are accounted for using the cost method.

              Tioxide Americas Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Venator, has a 50% interest in Louisiana Pigment Company, L.P. ("LPC"). Located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, LPC is a joint venture that produces TiO 2 for the exclusive benefit of each of the joint venture partners. In accordance with the joint venture agreement, this plant operates on a break-even basis. This investment is accounted for using the equity method and totaled $81 million and $84 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

              During 2012, we made a $3 million investment in White Mountain Titanium Corporation, which reflects a 3% ownership interest. This investment is accounted for using the cost method and totaled $3 million each at December 31, 2016 and 2015.

              Investments in other affiliates of Venator's parent company totaled $1 million and $11 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

7. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES

              We evaluate our investments and transactions to identify variable interest entities for which we are the primary beneficiary. We hold a variable interest in the following joint ventures for which we are the primary beneficiary:

    Pacific Iron Products Sdn Bhd is our 50%-owned joint venture with Coogee Chemicals that manufactures products for Venator. It was determined that the activities that most significantly impact its economic performance are raw material supply, manufacturing and sales. In this joint venture we supply all the raw materials through a fixed cost supply contract, operate the manufacturing facility and market the products of the joint venture to customers. Through a fixed price raw materials supply contract with the joint venture we are exposed to the risk related to the fluctuation of raw material pricing. As a result, we concluded that we are the primary beneficiary.

    Viance, LLC ("Viance") is our 50%-owned joint venture with Dow Chemical. Viance markets timber treatment products for Venator. Our joint venture interest in Viance was acquired as part of the Rockwood acquisition. It was determined that the activity that most significantly impacts its economic performance is manufacturing. The joint venture sources all of its products through a contract manufacturing arrangement at our Harrisburg, North Carolina facility and we bear a disproportionate amount of working capital risk of loss due to the supply arrangement whereby we control manufacturing on Viance's behalf. As a result, we concluded that we are the primary beneficiary and began consolidating Viance upon the Rockwood acquisition on October 1, 2014.

F-45


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

7. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES (Continued)

              Creditors of these entities have no recourse to Venator's general credit. As the primary beneficiary of these variable interest entities at December 31, 2016, the joint ventures' assets, liabilities and results of operations are included in Venator's combined financial statements.

              The revenues, income from continuing operations before income taxes and net cash provided by operating activities for our variable interest entities for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 are as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Revenues

  $ 116   $ 100   $ 24  

Income from continuing operations before income taxes

    21     13     3  

Net cash provided by operating activities

    26     17      

8. INTANGIBLE ASSETS

 
  December 31, 2016   December 31, 2015  
 
  Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Net   Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Net  

Patents, trademarks and technology

  $ 18   $ 1   $ 17   $ 19   $ 4   $ 15  

Other intangibles

    14     8     6     22     9     13  

Total

  $ 32   $ 9   $ 23   $ 41   $ 13   $ 28  

              Amortization expense was $4 million, $1 million and $3 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

              Our estimated future amortization expense for intangible assets over the next five years is as follows (dollars in millions):

Year ending December 31,
   
 

2017

  $ 4  

2018

    3  

2019

    3  

2020

    3  

2021

    3  

F-46


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. OTHER NONCURRENT ASSETS

              Other noncurrent assets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Spare parts inventory

  $ 13   $ 15  

Notes receivable

    7     7  

Deposits

        4  

Pension assets

    4     2  

Other

    11     9  

Total

  $ 35   $ 37  

10. ACCRUED LIABILITIES

              Accrued liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Payroll and benefits

  $ 55   $ 59  

Restructuring and plant closing costs

    15     86  

Rebate accrual

    26     22  

Current taxes payable

    4     7  

Asset retirement obligation

    13     18  

Taxes other than income taxes

    2     3  

Pension liabilities

    3     3  

Other miscellaneous accruals

    38     61  

Total

  $ 156   $ 259  

F-47


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND PLANT CLOSING COSTS

              Venator has initiated various restructuring programs in an effort to reduce operating costs and maximize operating efficiency. As of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, accrued restructuring and plant closing costs by type of cost and initiative consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  Workforce
reductions(1)
  Other
restructuring
costs
  Total(2)  

Accrued liabilities as of January 1, 2014

  $ 2   $   $ 2  

2014 charges

    62         62  

2014 payments

    (6 )       (6 )

Adjustment to Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives opening balance sheet liabilities

    1         1  

Accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2014

    59         59  

2015 charges

    95     21     116  

2015 payments

    (56 )   (21 )   (77 )

Adjustment to Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives opening balance sheet liabilities

    1         1  

Foreign currency effect on liability balance

    (6 )       (6 )

Accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2015

    93         93  

2016 charges

    9     16     25  

Distribution of prefunded restructuring costs

    (36 )       (36 )

2016 payments

    (43 )   (16 )   (59 )

Foreign currency effect on liability balance

    (1 )       (1 )

Accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2016

  $ 22   $   $ 22  

(1)
The total workforce reduction reserves of $22 million relate to the termination of 332 positions, of which 330 positions had not been terminated as of December 31, 2016.

(2)
Accrued liabilities remaining at December 31, 2016 and 2015 by year of initiatives were as follows (dollars in millions):
 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

2014 initiatives and prior

  $ 18   $ 77  

2015 initiatives

    4     16  

Total

  $ 22   $ 93  

F-48


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND PLANT CLOSING COSTS (Continued)

              Details with respect to our reserves for restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs are provided below by segment and initiative (dollars in millions):

 
  Titanium
Dioxide
  Performance
Additives
  Other
businesses
  Total  

Accrued liabilities as of January 1, 2014

  $ 2   $   $   $ 2  

2014 charges

    51     9     2     62  

2014 payments

    (4 )       (2 )   (6 )

Adjustment to Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives opening balance sheet liabilities

        1         1  

Accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2014

    49     10         59  

2015 charges

    75     36     5     116  

2015 payments

    (62 )   (13 )   (2 )   (77 )

Adjustment to Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives opening balance sheet liabilities

        1         1  

Foreign currency effect on liability balance

    (5 )   (1 )       (6 )

Accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2015

    57     33     3     93  

2016 charges

    9     16         25  

Distribution of prefunded restructuring costs

    (23 )   (13 )       (36 )

2016 payments

    (29 )   (29 )   (1 )   (59 )

Foreign currency effect on liability balance

    (2 )   2     (1 )   (1 )

Accrued liabilities as of December 31, 2016

  $ 12   $ 9   $ 1   $ 22  

Current portion of restructuring reserves

  $ 5   $ 9   $ 1   $ 15  

Long-term portion of restructuring reserve

    7             7  

              Details with respect to cash and noncash restructuring charges for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 by initiative are provided below (dollars in millions):

Cash charges:

       

2016 charges

  $ 25  

Accelerated depreciation

    9  

Other non-cash charges

    1  

Total 2016 Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

  $ 35  

 

Cash charges:

       

2015 charges

  $ 116  

Pension-related charges

    3  

Accelerated depreciation

    68  

Other non-cash charges

    36  

Total 2015 Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

  $ 223  

F-49


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND PLANT CLOSING COSTS (Continued)


Cash charges:

       

2014 charges

  $ 62  

Non-cash charges

     

Total 2014 Restructuring, Impairment and Plant Closing Costs

  $ 62  

2016 RESTRUCTURING ACTIVITIES

              In December 2014, we announced a comprehensive restructuring program to improve the global competitiveness of our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions. As part of the program, we are reducing our workforce by approximately 900 positions. In connection with this restructuring program, we recorded restructuring expense of $3 million in 2016.

              In February 2015, we announced a plan to close the black end manufacturing operations and ancillary activities at our Calais, France site, which will reduce our TiO 2 capacity by approximately 100,000 metric tons, or 11% of our European TiO 2 capacity. In connection with this announcement, we recorded restructuring expense of $1 million in the first quarter of 2016. All expected charges have been incurred as of the end of 2016.

              In March 2015, we announced plans to restructure our color pigments business, another step in our previously announced plan to significantly restructure our global Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions, and recorded restructuring expense of approximately $15 million in 2016.

              In July 2016, we announced plans to close our Umbogintwini, South Africa TiO 2 manufacturing facility. As part of the program, we recorded restructuring expense of approximately $6 million in 2016. Additionally, we recorded an impairment charge of $1 million during the second quarter of 2016. The majority of the long-lived assets associated with this manufacturing facility were impaired in the fourth quarter of 2015.

              In connection with planned restructuring activities, our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions recorded accelerated depreciation as restructuring expense of $8 million during 2016.

2015 RESTRUCTURING ACTIVITIES

              In December 2014, we announced a comprehensive restructuring program to improve the global competitiveness of our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions. As part of the program, we are reducing our workforce by approximately 900 positions. In connection with this restructuring program, during 2015, we recorded charges of $61 million for workforce reductions, $3 million for pension related charges and $15 million in other restructuring costs associated with this initiative.

              In February 2015, we announced a plan to close the black end manufacturing operations and ancillary activities at our Calais, France site, which will reduce our TiO 2 capacity by approximately 100,000 metric tons, or 11%, of our European TiO 2 capacity. In connection with this announcement, we began to accelerate depreciation on the affected assets and recorded accelerated depreciation in 2015

F-50


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. RESTRUCTURING, IMPAIRMENT AND PLANT CLOSING COSTS (Continued)

of $68 million as restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs. In addition, during 2015, we recorded charges of $30 million primarily for workforce reductions and non-cash charges of $17 million.

              In March 2015, we announced plans to restructure our color pigments business, another step in our previously announced plan to significantly restructure our global Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions, and recorded restructuring expense of approximately $4 million during 2015 primarily related to workforce reductions.

              During the fourth quarter of 2015, in connection with our plans to shut down the TiO 2 manufacturing facility in Umbogintwini, South Africa by the end of the fourth quarter of 2016, we determined that the South African asset group was impaired and recorded an impairment charge of $19 million.

2014 RESTRUCTURING ACTIVITIES

              In December 2014, we announced a comprehensive restructuring program to improve the global competitiveness of our Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives divisions. As part of the restructuring program we are reducing our workforce by approximately 900 positions. In connection with this restructuring program, we recorded restructuring expense of $57 million in the fourth quarter of 2014 related primarily to workforce reductions.

12. ASSET RETIREMENT OBLIGATIONS

              Asset retirement obligations consist primarily of asbestos abatement costs, demolition and removal costs, leasehold remediation costs and landfill closure costs. Venator is legally required to perform capping and closure and post-closure care on the landfills and asbestos abatement on certain of its premises. For each asset retirement obligation, Venator recognized the estimated fair value of a liability and capitalized the cost as part of the cost basis of the related asset.

              The following table describes changes to Venator's asset retirement obligation liabilities (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Asset retirement obligations at beginning of year

  $ 44   $ 18  

Accretion expense

    2     2  

Liabilities incurred

         

Liabilities assumed in connection with the Rockwood acquisition

        30  

Liabilities settled

    (4 )   (1 )

Foreign currency effect on reserve balance

    (3 )   (5 )

Asset retirement obligations at end of year

  $ 39   $ 44  

F-51


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

13. OTHER NONCURRENT LIABILITIES

              Other noncurrent liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Pension liabilities

  $ 341   $ 342  

Employee benefit accrual

    7     8  

Asset retirement obligations

    26     26  

Other postretirement benefits

    3     5  

Environmental reserves

    12     11  

Restructuring and plant closing costs

    7     7  

Other

    5     8  

Total

  $ 401   $ 407  

14. RELATED PARTY FINANCING

              Venator receives financing from Huntsman International and its subsidiaries, which are related parties. The financing relates to Venator's participation in a cash pooling program. See note "1. Description of Business, Recent Developments, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies."

              Cash Pooling Program —Venator addresses cash flow needs by participating in a cash pooling program. The cash pool provides for the participating subsidiaries of Huntsman International to loan or borrow funds daily from the cash pool. The business records these transactions as either amounts receivable from affiliates or amounts payable to affiliates and reflects these transaction in "Net advances to affiliates" and "Net borrowings on affiliate accounts payable" in the investing and financing sections, respectively, in the combined statements of cash flows. Interest income is earned if Venator is a net lender to the cash pool and paid if Venator is a net borrower from the cash pool based on a variable interest rate determined from time to time by Huntsman International. See note "1. Description of Business, Recent Developments, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies."

              Notes Receivable and Payable of Venator to Subsidiaries of Huntsman International —As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Venator had notes receivable outstanding from affiliates of $57 million and $327 million, respectively, and notes payable outstanding to affiliates totaling $882 million and $1,027 million, respectively. The borrowers and lenders are subsidiaries of Huntsman International and the notes are unsecured. Under the terms of the notes, Venator promises to pay interest on the unpaid principal amounts at a rate per annum as agreed upon from time to time by Huntsman International and Venator. As of December 31, 2016, the average interest rate on notes receivable and notes payable was 4%.

              A/R Programs —Certain of our entities participate in the accounts receivable securitization programs ("A/R Programs") sponsored by Huntsman International. Under the A/R Programs, these entities sell certain of their trade receivables to Huntsman International. Huntsman International grants an undivided interest in these receivables to a SPE, which serve as security for the issuance of debt of

F-52


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

14. RELATED PARTY FINANCING (Continued)

Huntsman International. These entities continue to service the securitized receivables. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Huntsman International had $105 million and $110 million, respectively, of net receivables in their A/R Programs and reflected on their balance sheet associated with Venator. The entities allocated losses on the A/R Programs for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were $5 million, $3 million and $4 million, respectively. The allocation of losses on sale of accounts receivable is based upon the pro-rata portion of total receivables sold into the securitization program as well as other program and interest expenses associated with the A/R Programs. On April 21, 2017, Huntsman International amended its accounts receivable securitization facilities, which among other things removed existing receivables sold into the program by the Pigments and Additives business. In addition, after April 21, 2017 receivables generated by the Pigments and Additives legal entities will no longer participate in the Huntsman A/R Program sponsored by Huntsman.

15. THIRD-PARTY DEBT AGREEMENTS

              Venator also has lease obligations accounted for as capital leases primarily related to manufacturing facilities which are included in other long-term debt. The scheduled maturities of Venator's commitments under capital leases are as follows (dollars in millions):

Year ending December 31:
   
 

2017

  $ 7  

2018

    2  

2019

    2  

2020

    2  

Thereafter

    11  

Total minimum payments

    24  

Less: Amounts representing interest

    (4 )

Present value of minimum lease payments

    20  

Less: Current portion of capital leases

    (7 )

Long-term portion of capital leases

  $ 13  

16. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES

              Venator is exposed to market risks associated with foreign exchange risks. From time to time, Venator, through Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, will enter into hedging or derivative transactions to mitigate these exposures.

              Venator's cash flows and earnings are subject to fluctuations due to exchange rate variation. Venator's revenues and expenses are denominated in various foreign currencies. From time to time, Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, on behalf of Venator, may enter into foreign currency derivative instruments to minimize the short-term impact of movements in foreign currency rates. Where practicable, Venator generally nets multicurrency cash balances among its subsidiaries to help reduce exposure to foreign currency exchange rates. Certain other exposures may be managed from time to time through financial market transactions, principally through the purchase of spot or forward foreign exchange contracts (generally with maturities of three months or less). Venator does not hedge

F-53


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

16. DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES (Continued)

its foreign currency exposures in a manner that would eliminate the effect of changes in exchange rates on its cash flows and earnings. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Huntsman International or its subsidiaries, on behalf of Venator, had approximately $88 million and $50 million in notional amount (in U.S. dollar equivalents) outstanding, respectively, in forward foreign currency contracts with a term of approximately one month.

17. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLAN

              Under the Huntsman Corporation Stock Incentive Plan, a plan approved by stockholders, Huntsman Corporation may grant non-qualified stock options, incentive stock options, stock appreciation rights, restricted stock, phantom stock, performance awards and other stock-based awards to its employees, directors and consultants and to employees and consultants of its subsidiaries, provided that incentive stock options may be granted solely to employees. The terms of the grants are fixed at the grant date. Option awards have a maximum contractual term of 10 years and generally must have an exercise price at least equal to the market price of Huntsman Corporation's common stock on the date the option award is granted. Stock-based awards generally vest over a three-year period; certain performance awards vest over a two-year period and awards to Huntsman Corporation's directors vest on the grant date.

              The compensation cost from continuing operations under the Stock Incentive Plan allocated to Venator was approximately $2 million each for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014. The allocation was determined annually based upon the outstanding number of shares of each type of award granted to individuals employed by Venator.

STOCK OPTIONS

              The fair value of each stock option award is estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes valuation model that uses the assumptions noted in the following table. Expected volatilities are based on the historical volatility of Huntsman Corporation's common stock through the grant date. The expected term of options granted was estimated based on the contractual term of the instruments and employees' expected exercise and post-vesting employment termination behavior. The risk-free rate for periods within the contractual life of the option was based on the U.S. Treasury yield curve in effect at the time of grant. The assumptions noted below represent the weighted averages of the assumptions utilized for all stock options granted during the year.

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Dividend yield

    5.6 %   2.3 %   2.4 %

Expected volatility

    57.9 %   57.6 %   60.3 %

Risk-free interest rate

    1.4 %   1.4 %   1.7 %

Expected life of stock options granted during the period

    5.9 years     5.9 years     5.7 years  

NONVESTED SHARES

              Nonvested shares granted under the Huntsman Corporation Stock Incentive Plan consist of restricted stock, which is accounted for as an equity award, and phantom stock, which is accounted for as a liability award because it can be settled in either stock or cash.

F-54


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

17. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION PLAN (Continued)

              The fair value of each performance share unit award is estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation model that uses various assumptions, including an expected volatility rate and a risk-free interest rate. For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the weighted-average expected volatility rate was 39.3% and 30.0%, respectively and the weighted average risk-free interest rate was 0.9% and 0.7%, respectively. For the performance awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the number of shares earned varies based upon Huntsman Corporation achieving certain performance criteria over two-year and three-year performance periods. The performance criteria are total stockholder return of Huntsman Corporation's common stock relative to the total stockholder return of a specified industry peer-group for the two-year and three-year performance periods. No performance share unit awards were granted during the year ended December 31, 2014.

18. INCOME TAXES

              Our income tax basis of presentation is summarized in note "1. Description of Business, Recent Developments, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies."

              A summary of the provisions for current and deferred income taxes is as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Income tax (benefit) expense:

                   

U.S.

                   

Current

  $ (4 ) $ (7 ) $ 4  

Deferred

    (5 )   5      

Non-U.S.

                   

Current

    (2 )   6     4  

Deferred

    (11 )   (35 )   (25 )

Total

  $ (22 ) $ (31 ) $ (17 )

F-55


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

18. INCOME TAXES (Continued)

              The reconciliation of the differences between the U.S. federal income taxes at the U.S. statutory rate to Venator's provision for income taxes is as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Loss from continuing operations before income taxes

  $ (99 ) $ (383 ) $ (179 )

Expected tax benefit at U.S. statutory rate of 35%

  $ (35 ) $ (134 ) $ (63 )

Change resulting from:

                   

State tax benefit net of federal benefit

        1      

Non-U.S. tax rate differentials

    (4 )   21     11  

Effects of non-U.S. operations

    (4 )   6     (1 )

Non-taxable portion of gain on sale of businesses

    (3 )        

Unrealized currency exchange gains and losses

    1     (21 )    

Tax authority audits and dispute resolutions

    (2 )   4     2  

Tax benefit of losses with valuation allowances as a result of other comprehensive income

    (1 )   (1 )   (6 )

Change in valuation allowance

    28     96     39  

Other, net

    (2 )   (3 )   1  

Total income tax benefit

  $ (22 ) $ (31 ) $ (17 )

              Included in the non-U.S. deferred tax expense are income tax benefits of $1 million in 2016, $1 million in 2015 and $6 million in 2014 for losses from continuing operations for certain jurisdictions with valuation allowances to the extent that income was recorded in other comprehensive income in that same jurisdiction. Foreign currency gains and changes in pension related items resulted in other comprehensive income where Venator has a full valuation allowance against the net deferred tax asset. An offsetting income tax expense was recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss.

              Venator operates in over 25 non-U.S. tax jurisdictions with no specific country earning a predominant amount of its off-shore earnings. The vast majority of these countries have income tax rates that are lower than the U.S. statutory rate. In 2016, the average statutory rate for countries with pre-tax income was lower than the average statutory rate for countries with pre-tax losses, resulting in a net benefit as compared to the U.S. statutory rate. For the year ended December 31, 2016, the tax rate differential resulted in lower tax expense of $4 million, reflected in the reconciliation above. In 2015 and 2014, the average statutory rate for countries with pre-tax losses was lower than the average statutory rate for countries with pre-tax income, resulting in a net expense as compared to the U.S. statutory rate.

              In certain non-U.S. tax jurisdictions, Venator's U.S. GAAP functional currency is different than the local tax currency. As a result, foreign exchange gains and losses will impact Venator's effective tax rate. For 2016, this resulted in a tax expense of $1 million. For 2015, this resulted in a tax benefit of $11 million ($21 million of benefit included in "unrealized currency exchange gains and losses" in the reconciliation above, net of $10 million of expense related to establishing contingent liabilities for potential non-deductibility of these foreign currency losses included in "tax authority audits and dispute resolutions" in the reconciliation above). During 2015, a number of Venator's intercompany liabilities

F-56


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

18. INCOME TAXES (Continued)

that were denominated in U.S. dollars were owed by entities whose tax currency was the euro. As a result of the depreciation in the euro opposite the U.S. dollar, these entities recorded a tax only foreign exchange loss. Most of the receivables associated with these same U.S. dollar denominated intercompany debts were held by entities with a tax currency of the U.S. dollar which, therefore, resulted in no taxable gain.

              The components of loss before income taxes were as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

U.S. 

  $ (7 ) $ (18 ) $ 8  

Non-U.S. 

    (92 )   (365 )   (187 )

Total

  $ (99 ) $ (383 ) $ (179 )

              Components of deferred income tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Deferred income tax assets:

             

Net operating carryforwards

  $ 373   $ 264  

Pension and other employee compensation

    70     72  

Property, plant and equipment

    31     60  

Intangible assets

    19     29  

Other, net

    36     56  

Total

  $ 529   $ 481  

Total deferred income tax liabilities:

             

Property, plant and equipment

  $ (126 ) $ (102 )

Pension and other employee compensation

    (1 )   (1 )

Other, net

    (4 )   (1 )

Total

  $ (131 ) $ (104 )

Net deferred tax assets before valuation allowance

  $ 398   $ 377  

Valuation allowance

    (247 )   (241 )

Net deferred tax assets

  $ 151   $ 136  

Non-current deferred tax assets

    163     162  

Non-current deferred tax liabilities

    (12 )   (26 )

Net deferred tax assets

  $ 151   $ 136  

              The net operating loss carryforward amounts ("NOLs"), including the amounts discussed below, and other attributes reflected in these combined financial statements are based upon the legal entity structure of Venator using the stand-alone methodology with on-top income adjustments and do

F-57


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

18. INCOME TAXES (Continued)

not reflect the actual NOLs and other tax attributes that exist or that would be allocated under the various required tax laws to the specific legal entities comprising Venator. Under the stand-alone methodology, NOLs that would have been created, utilized or expire unused do not reflect the actual creation, utilization and expiration of NOLs in the legal entities comprising Venator. For example, Huntsman had no U.S. NOLs to allocate to Venator.

              Venator has NOLs of $1,174 million in various non-U.S. jurisdictions, all of which have no expiration date. Venator had no NOLs expire unused in 2016. Venator has NOLs of $120 million in U.S. federal and $120 million in U.S. state jurisdictions.

              Venator has total tax-effected NOLs of $373 million. After taking into account deferred tax liabilities, there are $216 million of valuation allowances that related to these NOLs. Venator's NOLs are principally located in France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the U.K. and the U.S.

              Venator has total net deferred tax assets, before valuation allowance, of $398 million. Venator has a full valuation allowance on net deferred tax assets of $247 million in the following countries: France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, and the U.K. Venator also has net deferred tax assets of $161 million, not subject to valuation allowances, in Canada, Finland, Malaysia and Germany, and net deferred tax liabilities of $10 million in the U.S..

              Valuation allowances are reviewed each period on a tax jurisdiction by jurisdiction basis to analyze whether there is sufficient positive or negative evidence to support a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax assets. Uncertainties regarding expected future income in certain jurisdictions could affect the realization of deferred tax assets in those jurisdictions and result in additional valuation allowances in future periods.

              Valuation allowances are determined on a tax jurisdiction by jurisdiction basis. While Venator has generated consolidated losses before income taxes over the past three years, certain jurisdictions, significantly Germany, but also including Canada, Finland and Malaysia, are profitable and recognize net deferred tax assets.

              During 2016, Venator released valuation allowances of $6 million in France, as a result of deferred tax liabilities offsetting deferred tax assets, which previously had a valuation allowance.

              During 2015, Venator established valuation allowances of $12 million. In Italy, Venator established $10 million of valuation allowances on certain net deferred tax assets as a result of cumulative losses, and, in South Africa, Venator established a full valuation allowance on $2 million of deferred tax assets as a result of current year losses shifting it from a net deferred tax liability position.

F-58


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

18. INCOME TAXES (Continued)

              The following is a summary of changes in the valuation allowance (dollars in millions):

 
  2016   2015   2014  

Valuation allowance as of January 1

  $ 241   $ 157   $ 159  

Valuation allowance as of December 31

    247     241     157  

Net (increase) decrease

    (6 )   (84 )   2  

Foreign currency movements

    (20 )   (16 )   (18 )

(Decrease) increase to deferred assets with an offsetting increase or decrease to valuation allowances

    (2 )   4     (23 )

Change in valuation allowance per rate reconciliation

  $ (28 ) $ (96 ) $ (39 )

Components of change in valuation allowance affecting operating tax expense:

                   

Pre-tax income and pre-tax (losses) in jurisdictions with valuation allowances resulting in no tax expense or benefit

  $ (34 ) $ (84 ) $ (39 )

Release of valuation allowance in various jurisdictions

    6          

Establishments of valuation allowances in various jurisdictions

        (12 )    

Change in valuation allowances per rate reconciliation

  $ (28 ) $ (96 ) $ (39 )

              The following is a reconciliation of the unrecognized tax benefits (dollars in millions):

 
  2016   2015   2014  

Unrecognized tax benefits as of January 1

  $ 23   $ 25   $ 28  

Gross increases and decreases—tax positions taken during a prior period

        3     1  

Gross increases and decreases—tax positions taken during the current period

    (1 )   7      

Decreases related to settlements of amounts due to tax authorities

    (1 )   (1 )   (1 )

Reductions resulting from the lapse of statutes of limitation

        (8 )    

Foreign currency movements

    (1 )   (3 )   (3 )

Unrecognized tax benefits as of December 31

  $ 20   $ 23   $ 25  

              As of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, the amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate is $11 million, $14 million and $13 million, respectively.

              In accordance with Venator's accounting policy, it recognizes interest and penalties accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax expense (dollars in millions):

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Interest included in income tax expense

  $   $ (2 ) $ 1  

Penalties expense included in tax expense

             

F-59


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

18. INCOME TAXES (Continued)


 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Accrued liability for interest

  $   $  

              Venator conducts business globally and, as a result, files income tax returns in the U.S. federal, various U.S. state and various non-U.S. jurisdictions. The following table summarizes the tax years that remain subject to examination by major tax jurisdictions:

Tax Jurisdiction
  Open Tax Years

China

  2012 and later

France

  2002 and later

Germany

  2011 and later

Italy

  2012 and later

Malaysia

  2012 and later

Spain

  2002 and later

United Kingdom

  2015 and later

United States federal

  2009 and later

              Certain of Venator's U.S. and non-U.S. income tax returns are currently under various stages of audit by applicable tax authorities and the amounts ultimately agreed upon in resolution of the issues raised may differ materially from the amounts accrued.

              Venator estimates that it is reasonably possible that certain of its non-U.S. unrecognized tax benefits could change within 12 months of the reporting date with a resulting decrease in the unrecognized tax benefits within a reasonably possible range of nil to $3 million. For the 12-month period from the reporting date, Venator would expect that a substantial portion of the decrease in its unrecognized tax benefits would result in a corresponding benefit to its income tax expense.

              As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, there were no unremitted earnings of subsidiaries to consider for indefinite reinvestment. Going forward, to the extent future U.S. cash flow needs require distributions from foreign subsidiaries, based on existing law, we expect to have tax attributes (at least up to the amount of anticipated external Venator debt) that could allow repatriation of earnings to the U.S. without incremental U.S. income tax.

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

Defined Benefit and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans

              Venator sponsors defined benefit plans in a number of countries outside of the U.S. in which employees of Venator participate. The availability of these plans and their specific design provisions are consistent with local competitive practices and regulations.

              During 2012, Venator's U.K. pension plan was closed to new entrants. For existing participants, benefits will only grow as a result of increases in pay. A defined contribution plan was established to replace this pension plan for future benefit accruals.

              The disclosures for the defined benefit and other postretirement benefit plans within the U.S. are combined with the disclosures of the plans outside of the U.S. Of the total projected benefit

F-60


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)

obligations for Venator as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, the amount related to the U.S. benefit plans is $15 million and $14 million, respectively, or 1% each. Of the total fair value of plan assets for Venator, the amount related to the U.S. benefit plans for December 31, 2016 and 2015 was $11 million and $10 million, respectively, or 1% each.

              Certain plans are shared by Venator and other Huntsman International subsidiaries unrelated to Venator. In such cases, the projected benefit obligation is allocated based upon individual employee census data and the fair value of plan assets is allocated based upon a relevant percentage of projected benefit obligation.

              On December 31, 2016, legal entity restructuring commenced for other businesses that will not ultimately be part of Venator after the separation. As a result, certain other businesses within three legal entities were disposed.

F-61


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)

              The following table sets forth the funded status of the plans for Venator and the amounts recognized in the combined balance sheets at December 31, 2016 and 2015 (dollars in millions):

 
  Defined
Benefit Plans
  Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2016   2015  

Change in benefit obligation

                         

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

    1,149   $ 1,270     5   $ 8  

Service cost

    8     9          

Interest cost

    34     37     1      

Actuarial (gain) loss

    194     (34 )        

Acquisitions/disposals

    (42 )   6          

Gross benefits paid

    (51 )   (53 )   (1 )    

Plan amendments

        4     (2 )   (2 )

Exchange rates

    (162 )   (88 )       (1 )

Curtailments

        (4 )        

Special termination benefits

        2          

Benefit obligation at end of year

  $ 1,130   $ 1,149   $ 3   $ 5  

Change in plan assets

                         

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

  $ 806   $ 867   $   $  

Actual return on plan assets

    147     2          

Employer contribution

    25     39     1      

Gross benefits paid

    (51 )   (53 )   (1 )    

Acquisitions/disposals

    (1 )            

Exchange rates

    (136 )   (49 )        

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

  $ 790   $ 806   $   $  

Funded status

                         

Fair value of plan assets

  $ 790   $ 806   $   $  

Benefit obligation

    1,130     1,149     3     5  

Accrued benefit cost

  $ (340 ) $ (343 ) $ (3 ) $ (5 )

Amounts recognized in balance sheet:

                         

Noncurrent asset

  $ 4   $ 2   $   $  

Current liability

    (3 )   (3 )        

Noncurrent liability

    (341 )   (342 )   (3 )   (5 )

Total

  $ (340 ) $ (343 ) $ (3 ) $ (5 )

F-62


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)


 
  Defined
Benefit Plans
  Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2016   2015  

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive loss:

                         

Net actuarial loss (gain)

  $ 360   $ 307   $ (3 ) $ (3 )

Prior service cost (credit)

    8     9     (3 )   (1 )

Total

  $ 368   $ 316   $ (6 ) $ (4 )

              The amounts in accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income that are expected to be recognized as components of net periodic benefit cost during the next fiscal year are as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Defined
Benefit Plans
  Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 

Actuarial loss

  $ 16   $ 1  

Prior service credit

    1     (3 )

Total

  $ 17   $ (2 )

              Components of net periodic benefit costs for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Defined
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Service cost

  $ 7   $ 9   $ 5  

Interest cost

    34     37     40  

Expected return on plan assets

    (39 )   (51 )   (44 )

Amortization of actuarial loss

    11     11     11  

Amortization of prior service cost

    1     1     1  

Special termination benefit

        2      

Net periodic benefit cost

  $ 14   $ 9   $ 13  

 

 
  Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Service cost

  $   $   $  

Interest cost

             

Net periodic benefit cost

  $   $   $  

F-63


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)

              The amounts recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive (loss) income as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Defined
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Current year actuarial loss

  $ 86   $ 11   $ 37  

Amortization of actuarial loss

    (11 )   (11 )   (11 )

Current year prior service cost

    1     9      

Amortization of prior service credits

    (1 )   (1 )   (1 )

Disposals

    (23 )        

Total recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income

    52     8     25  

Net periodic benefit cost

    14     9     13  

Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income

  $ 66   $ 17   $ 38  

 

 
  Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Current year actuarial loss

  $   $   $ 1  

Current year prior service credits

    (2 )   (2 )    

Total recognized in other comprehensive (loss) income

    (2 )   (2 )   1  

Net periodic benefit cost

             

Total recognized in net periodic benefit cost and other comprehensive income

  $ (2 ) $ (2 ) $ 1  

              The following weighted-average assumptions were used to determine the projected benefit obligation at the measurement date and the net periodic pension cost for the year:

 
  Defined
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Projected benefit obligation:

                   

Discount rate

    2.25 %   3.18 %   3.03 %

Rate of compensation increase

    3.73 %   3.60 %   3.59 %

Net periodic pension cost:

                   

Discount rate

    3.18 %   3.03 %   4.29 %

Rate of compensation increase

    3.62 %   3.59 %   4.06 %

Expected return on plan assets

    5.22 %   5.99 %   6.24 %

F-64


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)


 
  Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Projected benefit obligation:

                   

Discount rate

    3.72 %   6.94 %   5.65 %

Net periodic pension cost:

                   

Discount rate

    6.94 %   5.65 %   6.59 %

              At December 31, 2016 and 2015, the health care trend rate used to measure the expected increase in the cost of benefits was assumed to be 5.82% and 7.0%, respectively, decreasing to 4.38% after 2030. Assumed health care cost trend rates can have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the postretirement benefit plans. A one-percent point change in assumed health care cost trend rates would not have a significant effect.

              The projected benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for the defined benefit plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets as were as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Projected benefit obligation

  $ 1,109   $ 1,125  

Fair value of plan assets

    766     779  

              The projected benefit obligation, accumulated benefit obligation and fair value of plan assets for the defined benefit plans with an accumulated benefit obligation in excess of plan assets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 were as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015  

Projected benefit obligation

  $ 1,109   $ 436  

Accumulated benefit obligation

    1,057     409  

Fair value of plan assets

    766     122  

              Expected future contributions and benefit payments are as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Defined
Benefit Plans
  Other
Postretirement
Benefit Plans
 

2017 expected employer contributions:

             

To plan trusts

  $ 24   $  

Expected benefit payments:

             

2017

    38      

2018

    39      

2019

    40      

2020

    41      

2021

    43      

2022 - 2026

    231     1  

F-65


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)

              Our investment strategy with respect to pension assets is to pursue an investment plan that, over the long term, is expected to protect the funded status of the plan, enhance the real purchasing power of plan assets and not threaten the plan's ability to meet currently committed obligations. Additionally, our investment strategy is to achieve returns on plan assets, subject to a prudent level of portfolio risk. Plan assets are invested in a broad range of investments. These investments are diversified in terms of domestic and international equities, both growth and value funds, including small, mid and large capitalization equities; short-term and long-term debt securities; real estate; and cash and cash equivalents. The investments are further diversified within each asset category. The portfolio diversification provides protection against a single investment or asset category having a disproportionate impact on the aggregate performance of the plan assets.

              Our pension plan assets are managed by outside investment managers. The investment managers value our plan assets using quoted market prices, other observable inputs or unobservable inputs. For certain assets, the investment managers obtain third-party appraisals at least annually, which use valuation techniques and inputs specific to the applicable property, market or geographic location. We have established target allocations for each asset category. Venator's pension plan assets are periodically rebalanced based upon our target allocations.

              The fair value of plan assets for the pension plans was $790 million and $806 million at December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively. The following plan assets are measured at fair value on a recurring basis (dollars in millions):

Asset Category
  December 31,
2016
  Fair Value
Amounts Using
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
  Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 

Pension plans:

                         

Equities

  $ 212   $ 206   $ 6   $  

Fixed income

    542     40     496     6  

Real estate/other

    32         5     27  

Cash and cash equivalents

    4     4          

Total pension plan assets

  $ 790   $ 250   $ 507   $ 33  

 

Asset Category
  December 31,
2015
  Fair Value
Amounts Using
Quoted Prices in
Active Markets
for Identical
Assets (Level 1)
  Significant
Other
Observable
Inputs
(Level 2)
  Significant
Unobservable
Inputs
(Level 3)
 

Pension plans:

                         

Equities

  $ 213   $ 204   $ 9   $  

Fixed income

    565     37     528      

Real estate/other

    21         12     9  

Cash and cash equivalents

    7     2     5      

Total pension plan assets

  $ 806   $ 243   $ 554   $ 9  

F-66


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)


 
  Real Estate/
Other
Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015  

Fair Value Measurements of Plan Assets Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)

             

Balance at the beginning of the period

  $ 9   $ 10  

Return on pension plan assets

        (1 )

Purchases, sales and settlements

    19      

Transfers (out of) into Level 3

         

Disposals

    (1 )    

Balance at the end of the period

  $ 27   $ 9  

 

 
  Fixed Income
Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2016   2015  

Fair Value Measurements of Plan Assets Using Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3)

             

Balance at the beginning of the period

  $   $  

Return on pension plan assets

         

Purchases, sales and settlements

    6      

Transfers (out of) into Level 3

         

Balance at the end of the period

  $ 6   $  

              Based upon historical returns, the expectations of our investment committee and outside advisors, the expected long-term rate of return on the pension assets is estimated to be between 5.22% and 6.24%. The asset allocation for our pension plans at December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the target allocation for 2017, by asset category, are as follows:

Asset category
  Target
allocation
2017
  Allocation at
December 31,
2016
  Allocation at
December 31,
2015
 

Pension plans:

                   

Equities

    27 %   27 %   26 %

Fixed income

    68 %   69 %   70 %

Real estate/other

    5 %   4 %   3 %

Cash

            1 %

Total pension plans

    100 %   100 %   100 %

              Equity securities in Venator's pension plans did not include any equity securities of Huntsman Corporation or Venator and its affiliates at the end of 2016.

F-67


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)

U.S. Benefit Plans

              Defined Benefit and Other Postretirement Benefit Plans Sponsored by Huntsman International —Venator's U.S. employees participate in a trusteed, non-contributory defined benefit pension plan (the "Plan") that covers substantially all of Huntsman International's full-time U.S. employees. Effective July 1, 2004, the Plan formula for employees not covered by a collective bargaining agreement was converted to a cash balance design. For represented employees, participation in the cash balance design is subject to the terms of negotiated contracts. For participating employees, benefits accrued under the prior formula were converted to opening cash balance accounts. The new cash balance benefit formula provides annual pay credits from 4% to 12% of eligible pay, depending on age and service, plus accrued interest. Participants in the plan on July 1, 2004 may be eligible for additional annual pay credits from 1% to 8%, depending on their age and service as of that date, for up to five years. The conversion to the cash balance plan did not have a significant impact on the accrued benefit liability, the funded status or ongoing pension expense. Beginning July 1, 2014, the Huntsman Defined Benefit Pension Plan was closed to new, non-union entrants. New hires will be provided with a defined contribution plan with a non-discretionary employer contribution of 6% of pay and a company match of up to 4% of pay, for a total company contribution of up to 10% of pay.

              Our employees also participate in an unfunded postretirement benefit plan, which provides medical and life insurance benefits. This plan is sponsored by Huntsman International.

              Our U.S. employees participate in a postretirement benefit plan that provides a fully insured Medicare Part D plan including prescription drug benefits affected by the Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement and Modernization Act of 2003 (the "Act"). Neither Venator nor Huntsman can determine whether the medical benefits provided by these postretirement benefit plans are actuarially equivalent to those provided by the Act. Neither Venator nor Huntsman collects a subsidy, and our net periodic postretirement benefits cost, and related benefit obligation, do not reflect an amount associated with the subsidy.

Non-U.S. Defined Contribution Plans

              We have defined contribution plans in a variety of non-U.S. locations.

              Venator's combined expense for these defined contribution plans for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 was $7 million, $8 million and $7 million, respectively, primarily related to the Huntsman UK Pension Plan.

              All U.K. associates are eligible to participate in the Huntsman U.K. Pension Plan, a contract based arrangement with a third party. Company contributions vary by business during a five year transition period. Plan participants elect to make voluntary contributions to this plan up to a specified amount of their compensation. We contribute a matching amount not to exceed 12% of the participant's salary for new hires and 15% of the participant's salary for all other participants.

U.S. Defined Contribution Plans

              We have a money purchase pension plan covering substantially all of our domestic employees who were hired prior to January 1, 2004. Employer contributions are made based on a percentage of employees' earnings (ranging up to 8%). During 2014, we closed this plan to non-union participants,

F-68


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

19. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS (Continued)

continuing to provide equivalent benefits to those covered under this plan into their salary deferral accounts.

              We also have a salary deferral plan covering substantially all U.S. employees. Plan participants may elect to make voluntary contributions to this plan up to a specified amount of their compensation. We contribute an amount equal to one-half of the participant's contribution, not to exceed 2% of the participant's compensation.

              Along with the introduction of the cash balance formula within the defined benefit pension plan, the money purchase pension plan was closed to new hires. At the same time, the employer match in the salary deferral plan was increased, for new hires, to a 100% match, not to exceed 4% of the participant's compensation, once the participant has achieved six years of service with us.

              Our total combined expense for the above defined contribution plans was $1 million for the year ended December 31, 2016 and de minimus for each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014.

20. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

              Huntsman Corporation's executive, information technology, EHS and certain other corporate departments perform certain administrative and other services for Venator. Additionally, Huntsman Corporation performs certain site services for Venator. Expenses incurred by Huntsman Corporation and allocated to Venator are determined based on specific services provided or are allocated based on our total revenues, total assets, and total employees in proportion to those of Huntsman Corporation. Management believes that such expense allocations are reasonable. It is not practical to estimate the expenses that would have been incurred by Venator had it been operated on a stand-alone basis. Corporate allocations include allocated selling, general, and administrative expenses of $111 million, $96 million and $86 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

              We also conduct transactions in the normal course of business with parties under common ownership. Sales of raw materials to LPC as part of a sourcing arrangement were $67 million, $80 million and $108 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Proceeds from this arrangement are recorded as a reduction of cost of goods sold in Venator's combined statements of operations. Related to this same arrangement, purchases of finished goods from LPC were $158 million, $163 million and $194 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Sales to other affiliates of Huntsman by Venator were $60 million, $60 million and $75 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. Inventory purchases from other affiliates of Huntsman by Venator were $61 million, $56 million and $63 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively. The related accounts receivable from affiliates and accounts payable to affiliates as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 are recognized in the combined balance sheets.

              We participate in a cash management system with various subsidiaries of Huntsman International, which results in interest expense to Venator. See note "1. Description of Business, Recent Developments, Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies" and note "14. Related Party Financing."

F-69


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

21. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

              Purchase Commitments —We have various purchase commitments extending through 2029 for materials, supplies and services entered into in the ordinary course of business. Included in the purchase commitments table below are contracts which require minimum volume purchases that extend beyond one year or are renewable annually and have been renewed for 2017. Certain contracts allow for changes in minimum required purchase volumes in the event of a temporary or permanent shutdown of a facility. To the extent the contract requires a minimum notice period; such notice period has been included in the table below. The contractual purchase prices for substantially all of these contracts are variable based upon market prices, subject to annual negotiations. We have estimated our contractual obligations by using the terms of our current pricing for each contract. We also have a limited number of contracts which require a minimum payment even if no volume is purchased. We believe that all of our purchase obligations will be utilized in our normal operations. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, we made minimum payments under such take or pay contracts without taking the product of $1 million, nil and nil, respectively. Total purchase commitments as of December 31, 2016 were as follows (dollars in millions):

Year Ending December 31:
  TiO 2
&
Performance
Additives
  Other
businesses
  Total  

2017

  $ 582   $ 24   $ 606  

2018

    438     17     455  

2019

    49     8     57  

2020

    14     4     18  

2021

    12     4     16  

Thereafter

    39     24     63  

              Operating Leases —We lease certain premises, automobiles, and office equipment under long-term lease agreements. The total expense recorded under operating lease agreements in the combined statements of operations was approximately $10 million, $10 million and $5 million for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, respectively.

              Future minimum lease payments under noncancelable operating leases as of December 31, 2016 were as follows (dollars in millions):

Year Ending December 31:
   
 

2017

  $ 8  

2018

    7  

2019

    3  

2020

    2  

2021

    2  

Thereafter

    2  

Total

  $ 24  

              Guarantees —Substantially all of our U.S. operations and certain of their foreign subsidiary holdings fully and unconditionally guaranteed Huntsman International's outstanding notes. Subsequent

F-70


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

21. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)

to the business separation, such operations and entities will no longer guarantee Huntsman International's notes. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, Huntsman International and its guarantors had third-party debt outstanding of $3,793 million and $4,318 million, respectively. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, our U.S. operations and certain of our foreign subsidiaries that guarantee Huntsman International's outstanding notes had total assets, excluding intercompany amounts, of $502 million and $384 million, respectively.

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

              Antitrust Matters —We were named as a defendant in consolidated class action civil antitrust suits filed on February 9 and 12, 2010 in the U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland alleging that we, our co-defendants and other alleged co-conspirators conspired to fix prices of TiO 2 sold in the U.S. between at least March 1, 2002 and the present. The other defendants named in this matter were E. I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont), Kronos Worldwide, Inc. ("Kronos") and National Titanium Dioxide Company, Ltd. ("Cristal") (formerly Millennium). On August 28, 2012, the court certified a class consisting of all U.S. customers who purchased TiO 2 directly from the defendants (the "Direct Purchasers") since February 1, 2003. On December 13, 2013, we and all other defendants settled the Direct Purchasers litigation and the court approved the settlement. We paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our combined financial statements.

              On November 22, 2013, we were named as a defendant in a civil antitrust suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota brought by a Direct Purchaser who opted out of the Direct Purchasers class litigation (the "Opt-Out Litigation"). On April 21, 2014, the court severed the claims against us from the other defendants sued and ordered our case transferred to the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Texas. Subsequently, Kronos, another defendant, was also severed from the Minnesota case and claims against it were transferred and consolidated for trial with our case in the Southern District of Texas. On February 26, 2016, we reached an agreement to settle the Opt-Out litigation and subsequently paid the settlement in an amount immaterial to our combined financial statements.

              We were also named as a defendant in a class action civil antitrust suit filed on March 15, 2013 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by the purchasers of products made from TiO 2 (the "Indirect Purchasers") making essentially the same allegations as did the Direct Purchasers. On October 14, 2014, plaintiffs filed their Second Amended Class Action Complaint narrowing the class of plaintiffs to those merchants and consumers of architectural coatings containing TiO 2 . On August 11, 2015, the court granted our motion to dismiss the Indirect Purchasers litigation with leave to amend the complaint. A Third Amended Class Action Complaint was filed on September 29, 2015 further limiting the class to consumers of architectural paints. Plaintiffs have raised state antitrust claims under the laws of 15 states, consumer protection claims under the laws of nine states, and unjust enrichment claims under the laws of 16 states. On November 4, 2015, we and our co-defendants filed another motion to dismiss. On June 13, 2016, the court substantially denied the motion to dismiss except as to consumer protection claims in one state. The parties are presently negotiating a settlement for an amount that would not be material to our combined financial statements.

F-71


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

21. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Continued)

              On August 23, 2016, we were named as a defendant in a fourth civil antitrust suit filed in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California by an Indirect Purchaser of TiO 2 , Home Depot. Home Depot is an Indirect Purchaser of TiO 2 primarily through paints it purchases from various manufacturers. Home Depot makes the same claims as the Direct and Indirect Purchasers. On January 13, 2017, we filed a motion to dismiss the Home Depot case, which remains pending. We do not expect this matter to have a material impact on our consolidated financial statements.

              These Indirect Purchasers seek to recover injunctive relief, treble damages or the maximum damages allowed by state law, costs of suit and attorneys' fees. We are not aware of any illegal conduct by us or any of our employees. Nevertheless, we have incurred costs relating to these claims and could incur additional costs in amounts which in the aggregate could be material to us. Because of the overall complexity of these cases, we are unable to reasonably estimate any possible loss or range of loss and we have not made a material accrual with respect to these claims.

              Other Proceedings —We are a party to various other proceedings instituted by private plaintiffs, governmental authorities and others arising under provisions of applicable laws, including various environmental, products liability and other laws. Except as otherwise disclosed in these combined financial statements, we do not believe that the outcome of any of these matters will have a material effect on our financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

22. ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY MATTERS

              Environmental, Health and Safety ("EHS") Capital Expenditures —We may incur future costs for capital improvements and general compliance under EHS laws, including costs to acquire, maintain and repair pollution control equipment. For the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014, our capital expenditures for EHS matters totaled $18 million, $45 million and $30 million, respectively. Because capital expenditures for these matters are subject to evolving regulatory requirements and depend, in part, on the timing, promulgation and enforcement of specific requirements, our capital expenditures for EHS matters have varied significantly from year to year and we cannot provide assurance that our recent expenditures are indicative of future amounts we may spend related to EHS and other applicable laws.

              Environmental Reserves —We accrue liabilities relating to anticipated environmental cleanup obligations, site reclamation and closure costs, and known penalties. Liabilities are recorded when potential liabilities are either known or considered probable and can be reasonably estimated. Our liability estimates are calculated using present value techniques as appropriate and are based upon requirements placed upon us by regulators, available facts, existing technology, and past experience. The environmental liabilities do not include amounts recorded as asset retirement obligations. As of December 31, 2016 and 2015, we had environmental reserves of $12 million and $14 million, respectively. We may incur additional losses for environmental remediation.

              Environmental Matters —We have incurred and we may in the future incur, liability to investigate and clean up waste or contamination at our current or former facilities or facilities operated by third parties at which we may have disposed of waste or other materials. Similarly, we may incur costs for the cleanup of waste that was disposed of prior to the purchase of our businesses. Under some circumstances, the scope of our liability may extend to damages to natural resources.

F-72


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

22. ENVIRONMENTAL, HEALTH AND SAFETY MATTERS (Continued)

              Under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act ("CERCLA") and similar state laws, a current or former owner or operator of real property in the U.S. may be liable for remediation costs regardless of whether the release or disposal of hazardous substances was in compliance with law at the time it occurred, and a current owner or operator may be liable regardless of whether it owned or operated the facility at the time of the release. Outside the U.S., analogous contaminated property laws, such as those in effect in France, can hold past owners and/or operators liable for remediation at former facilities. We have not been notified by third parties of claims against us for cleanup liabilities at former facilities or third-party sites, including, but not limited to, sites listed under CERCLA.

              Under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act in the U.S. and similar state laws, we may be required to remediate contamination originating from our properties as a condition to our hazardous waste permit. Some of our manufacturing sites have an extended history of industrial chemical manufacturing and use, including on-site waste disposal and we have made accruals for related remediation activity. We are aware of soil, groundwater or surface contamination from past operations at some of our sites and have made accruals for related remediation activity, and we may find contamination at other sites in the future. Similar laws exist in a number of locations in which we currently operate, or previously operated, manufacturing facilities, such as France and Italy.

23. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS

              Other comprehensive loss consisted of the following (dollars in millions):

 
  Foreign
currency
translation
adjustment(a)
  Pension and
other
postretirement
benefits
adjustments,
net of tax(b)
  Other
comprehensive
income of
unconsolidated
affiliates
  Total   Amounts
attributable to
noncontrolling
interests
  Amounts
attributable to
Venator
 

Beginning balance, January 1, 2016

  $ (144 ) $ (252 ) $ (5 ) $ (401 ) $   $ (401 )

Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications

    32     (62 )       (30 )       (30 )

Tax expense

        (3 )       (3 )       (3 )

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, gross(c)

        12         12         12  

Tax expense

        (1 )       (1 )       (1 )

Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income

    32     (54 )       (22 )       (22 )

Ending balance, December 31, 2016

  $ (112 ) $ (306 ) $ (5 ) $ (423 ) $   $ (423 )

F-73


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

23. OTHER COMPREHENSIVE LOSS (Continued)

 
  Foreign
currency
translation
adjustment(a)
  Pension and
other
postretirement
benefits
adjustments,
net of tax(b)
  Other
comprehensive
income of
unconsolidated
affiliates
  Total   Amounts
attributable to
noncontrolling
interests
  Amounts
attributable to
Venator
 

Beginning balance, January 1, 2015

  $ (73 ) $ (242 ) $ (4 ) $ (319 ) $   $ (319 )

Other comprehensive (loss) income before reclassifications

    (71 )   (18 )   (1 )   (90 )       (90 )

Tax benefit (expense)

        (3 )       (3 )       (3 )

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss, gross(c)

        12         12         12  

Tax benefit

        (1 )       (1 )       (1 )

Net current-period other comprehensive (loss) income

    (71 )   (10 )   (1 )   (82 )       (82 )

Ending balance, December 31, 2015

  $ (144 ) $ (252 ) $ (5 ) $ (401 ) $   $ (401 )

(a)
Amounts are net of tax of nil each as of December 31, 2016 and 2015.

(b)
Amounts are net of tax of $56 and $60 as of December 31, 2016 and 2015, respectively.

(c)
See table below for details about the amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss.
 
  Year ended
December 31,
   
 
  Affected line item in the statement
where net income is presented
Details about Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components:
  2016   2015

Amortization of pension and other postretirement benefits:

               

Actuarial loss

  $ 11   $ 11   (a)

Prior service cost

    1     1   (a)

    12     12   Total before tax

    (1 )   (1 ) Income tax (expense)

Total reclassifications for the period

  $ 11   $ 11   Net of tax

(a)
These accumulated other comprehensive loss components are included in the computation of net periodic pension costs. See note "19. Employee Benefit Plans."

F-74


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

24. OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION

              We derive our revenues, earnings and cash flows from the manufacture and sale of a wide variety of commodity chemical products. We have reported our operations through our two segments, Titanium Dioxide and Performance Additives, and organized our business and derived our operating segments around differences in product lines. We also conduct other business within components of legal entities we operated in conjunction with Huntsman businesses. These other businesses will not ultimately be part of Venator. As such, these other businesses do not meet the definition of operating segments.

              The major product groups of each reportable operating segment are as follows:

Segment
  Product Group
Titanium Dioxide   titanium dioxide

Performance Additives

 

functional additives, color pigments, timber treatment and water treatment chemicals

              Sales between segments are generally recognized at external market prices and are eliminated in consolidation. Adjusted EBITDA is presented as a measure of the financial performance of our global business units and for reporting the results of our operating segments. The revenues and

F-75


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

24. OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)

Adjusted EBITDA for each of the two reportable operating segments are as follows (dollars in millions):

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Revenues:

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 1,554   $ 1,583   $ 1,411  

Performance Additives

    585     577     138  

Corporate and other

    170     170     180  

Total

  $ 2,309   $ 2,330   $ 1,729  

Segment Adjusted EBITDA(1)

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 61   $ (8 ) $ 62  

Performance Additives

    69     69     14  

Corporate and other

    (37 )   (27 )   (29 )

Total

  $ 93   $ 34   $ 47  

Reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to net loss:

                   

Interest expense

    (59 )   (52 )   (25 )

Interest income

    15     22     23  

Income tax benefit

    22     31     17  

Depreciation and amortization

    (120 )   (107 )   (93 )

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests

    10     7     2  

Other adjustments:

                   

Acquisition and integration expenses

    (11 )   (44 )   (45 )

Purchase accounting adjustments

            (13 )

Gain (loss) on disposition of business/assets

    22     (2 )   1  

Certain legal settlements and related expenses

    (2 )   (3 )   (3 )

Amortization of pension and postretirement actuarial losses

    (11 )   (11 )   (11 )

Net plant incident costs

    (1 )   (4 )    

Restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs

    (35 )   (223 )   (62 )

Net loss

  $ (77 ) $ (352 ) $ (162 )

F-76


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

24. OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)

 
  Year ended December 31,  
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Depreciation and Amortization:

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 87   $ 72   $ 73  

Performance Additives

    19     20     5  

Other businesses

    14     15     15  

Total

  $ 120   $ 107   $ 93  

Capital Expenditures:

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 73   $ 124   $ 109  

Performance Additives

    30     79     27  

Other businesses

    10     8     6  

Total

  $ 113   $ 211   $ 142  

Total Assets:

                   

Titanium Dioxide

  $ 1,561   $ 1,707   $ 2,059  

Performance Additives

    764     783     724  

Other businesses

    334     923     1,150  

Total

  $ 2,659   $ 3,413   $ 3,933  

(1)
Adjusted EBITDA is defined as net income (loss) of Venator before interest, income tax, depreciation and amortization and net income attributable to noncontrolling interests, as well as eliminating the following adjustments from net income (loss): (a) acquisition and integration expenses; (b) purchase accounting adjustments; (c) gain (loss) on disposition of businesses/assets; (d) certain legal settlements and related expenses; (e) amortization of pension and postretirement actuarial losses; (f) net plant incident costs; and (g) restructuring, impairment and plant closing costs.
 
  Year ended December 31,  
By Geographic Area
  2016   2015   2014  

Revenues(1):

                   

United States

  $ 491   $ 501   $ 313  

Germany

    273     298     181  

Italy

    158     145     106  

China

    113     97     54  

United Kingdom

    102     105     94  

France

    99     95     84  

Spain

    79     71     71  

Switzerland

    75     79     90  

Canada

    59     59     41  

Other nations

    860     880     695  

Total

  $ 2,309   $ 2,330   $ 1,729  

F-77


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

24. OPERATING SEGMENT INFORMATION (Continued)


 
  December 31,  
 
  2016   2015   2014  

Long-Lived Assets:

                   

Germany

  $ 226   $ 256   $ 254  

United States

    263     256     187  

United Kingdom

    198     252     241  

Italy

    164     173     177  

Finland

    146     150     170  

Other nations

    201     240     378  

Total

  $ 1,198   $ 1,327   $ 1,407  

(1)
Geographic information for revenues is based upon countries into which product is sold.

25. RESTATEMENT OF COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

              We identified errors within our previously issued condensed combined statements of cash flows related to our classification of affiliate transactions which were previously presented as cash flows from operating activities. We have concluded that the previously issued combined statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014 were materially misstated and require restatement. There was no effect on Venator's previously reported combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2016 and 2015 and the combined statements of operations, comprehensive loss and equity for the three years ended December 31, 2016. The schedule below provides a summary of the impact of these restatement adjustments on our combined statements of cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014:

 
  Year Ended
December 31, 2016
 
 
  As Restated   As Previously
Reported
 
 
  (in millions)
 

Combined Statements of Cash Flows:

             

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

             

Accounts payable

  $ 9   $ 55  

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    97     143  

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

             

Net (advances to) payments from affiliates

    (17 )    

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activities

    (118 )   (101 )

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

             

Net borrowings from affiliate accounts payable

    46      

Net change in parent company investment

        (17 )

Net cash provided by financing activities

    30     (33 )

F-78


Table of Contents


Venator
(Combined Divisions of Huntsman Corporation)

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

25. RESTATEMENT OF COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (Continued)


 
  Year Ended
December 31, 2015
 
 
  As Restated   As Previously
Reported
 
 
  (in millions)
 

Combined Statements of Cash Flows:

             

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

             

Accounts payable

  $ (24 ) $ 242  

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    (63 )   203  

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

             

Net (advances to) payables from affiliates

    66      

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activity

    (139 )   (205 )

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

             

Net borrowings on affiliate accounts payable

    204      

Net change in parent company investment

        4  

Net cash provided by financing activities

    194     (6 )

 

 
  Year Ended
December 31, 2014
 
 
  As Restated   As Previously
Reported
 
 
  (in millions)
 

Combined Statements of Cash Flows:

             

Cash Flows from Operating Activities:

             

Accounts payable

  $ 11   $ 174  

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

    (63 )   100  

Cash Flows from Investing Activities

             

Net (advances to) payables from affiliates

    83      

Net cash (used in) provided by investing activity

    29     (54 )

Cash Flows from Financing Activities:

             

Net borrowings on affiliate accounts payable

    53      

Net change in parent company investment

        (27 )

Net cash provided by financing activities

    52     (28 )

******

F-79


Table of Contents


Schedule II—Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
VENATOR
(Dollars in millions)

 
   
  Additions    
   
 
Description
  Balance at
beginning
of period
  Charges
to cost
and expenses
  Charged
to other
accounts
  Deductions   Balance at
end of
period
 

Allowance for doubtful accounts:

                               

Year ended December 31, 2016

  $ 5   $   $   $   $ 5  

Year ended December 31, 2015

    6         (1 )       5  

Year ended December 31, 2014

    8         (2 )       6  

F-80


Table of Contents


INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT

To the Board of Directors of
Rockwood Holdings, Inc.
Princeton, New Jersey

              We have audited the accompanying combined financial statements of the Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc., consisting of several of its businesses as one combined company, comprised of Titanium Dioxide Pigments, Color Pigments and Services, Timber Treatment Chemicals, Rubber/Thermoplastics Compounding and Water Chemistry (the "Company"), which comprise the combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the related combined statements of operations, comprehensive income (loss), cash flows, and changes in parent company equity for the years then ended, and the related notes to the combined financial statements.

Management's Responsibility for the Financial Statements

              Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these combined financial statements in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America; this includes the design, implementation, and maintenance of internal control relevant to the preparation and fair presentation of combined financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditors' Responsibility

              Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these combined financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the combined financial statements are free from material misstatement.

              An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the combined financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor's judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the combined financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the Company's preparation and fair presentation of the combined financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of significant accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the combined financial statements.

              We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

Opinion

              In our opinion, the combined financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc., consisting of several of its businesses as one combined company, comprised of Titanium Dioxide Pigments, Color Pigments and Services, Timber Treatment Chemicals, Rubber/Thermoplastics Compounding and Water Chemistry, as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years then ended in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

F-81


Table of Contents

              As discussed in Note 1 to the combined financial statements, the Company is comprised of the assets and liabilities used in managing and operating the Company. The combined financial statements also include allocations from Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (the "Parent"). These allocations may not be reflective of the actual level of assets, liabilities, or costs which would have been incurred had the Company operated as a separate entity apart from the Parent.

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

Parsippany, New Jersey
June 9, 2014

F-82


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in millions)

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  

Net sales

  $ 1,607.6   $ 1,451.0  

Cost of products sold

    1,466.8     1,202.2  

Gross profit

    140.8     248.8  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

    180.8     175.9  

Restructuring and other severance costs

    2.2     7.9  

Operating (loss) income

    (42.2 )   65.0  

Other expenses, net:

             

Interest expense, net

    (5.8 )   (22.9 )

Loss on early extinguishment/modification of debt

    (17.2 )   (2.8 )

Foreign exchange (loss) gain on financing activities, net

    (0.7 )   0.2  

Other expenses, net

    (23.7 )   (25.5 )

(Loss) income before taxes

    (65.9 )   39.5  

Income tax (benefit) provision

    (11.6 )   11.7  

Net (loss) income

    (54.3 )   27.8  

Net income attributable to noncontrolling interest

    (1.2 )   (18.4 )

Net (loss) income attributable to Parent company equity

  $ (55.5 ) $ 9.4  

   

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

F-83


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Dollars in millions)

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  

Net (loss) income

  $ (54.3 ) $ 27.8  

Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax:

             

Pension related adjustments

    30.8     (37.1 )

Foreign currency translation

    49.2     6.3  

Other comprehensive income (loss)

    80.0     (30.8 )

Comprehensive income (loss)

    25.7     (3.0 )

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest

    (2.6 )   (5.6 )

Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to Parent company equity

  $ 23.1   $ (8.6 )

   

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

F-84


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in millions)

 
  December 31,  
 
  2013   2012  

ASSETS

             

Current assets:

             

Cash

  $ 15.1   $ 27.0  

Accounts receivable, net

    201.6     183.4  

Inventories

    420.4     490.0  

Deferred income taxes

    2.7     3.5  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

    41.7     21.2  

Total current assets

    681.5     725.1  

Property, plant and equipment, net

    763.6     700.7  

Intangible assets, net

    200.6     216.3  

Deferred financing costs, net

        18.5  

Deferred income taxes

    63.0     54.5  

Other assets

    9.6     9.5  

Total assets

  $ 1,718.3   $ 1,724.6  

LIABILITIES

             

Current liabilities:

             

Accounts payable

  $ 170.6   $ 149.8  

Income taxes payable

    1.8     10.6  

Accrued compensation

    26.8     25.1  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

    40.9     50.0  

Deferred income taxes

    1.0     0.3  

Long-term debt, current portion

    3.2     516.2  

Total current liabilities

    244.3     752.0  

Long-term debt

    5.3     18.7  

Pension and related liabilities

    204.1     223.2  

Deferred income taxes

    11.9     12.0  

Other liabilities

    29.1     36.4  

Total liabilities

    494.7     1,042.3  

Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees—See Note 15

             

EQUITY

             

Parent company equity:

             

Parent company investment

    1,045.8     440.6  

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

    24.8     (26.4 )

Total Parent company equity

    1,070.6     414.2  

Noncontrolling interest

    153.0     268.1  

Total equity

    1,223.6     682.3  

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 1,718.3   $ 1,724.6  

   

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

F-85


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in millions)

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

             

Net (loss) income

  $ (54.3 ) $ 27.8  

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:

             

Depreciation and amortization

    124.0     121.4  

Deferred financing costs amortization

    1.3     4.0  

Loss on early extinguishment/modification of debt

    17.2     2.8  

Foreign exchange loss (gain) on financing activities, net

    0.7     (0.2 )

Fair value adjustment of derivatives

    (0.9 )   2.3  

Bad debt provision

    1.4     0.3  

Stock-based compensation

    2.2     2.2  

Deferred income taxes

    (16.0 )   (11.1 )

Asset write-downs and other

    0.1     0.7  

Changes in assets and liabilities, net of the effect of foreign currency translation and acquisitions:

             

Accounts receivable

    (12.7 )   (8.1 )

Inventories

    81.8     (51.2 )

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    (11.8 )   10.6  

Accounts payable

    8.6     4.9  

Income taxes payable

    (16.6 )   (14.0 )

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    (2.3 )   (18.3 )

Net cash provided by operating activities

    122.7     74.1  

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

             

Capital expenditures

    (130.9 )   (102.8 )

Acquisitions

        (69.0 )

Proceeds on sale of assets

    0.1     0.1  

Net cash used in investing activities

    (130.8 )   (171.7 )

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

             

Change in Parent company investment

    522.0     (82.2 )

Payments of long-term debt

    (525.1 )   (145.6 )

Proceeds from long-term debt

    6.0     381.2  

Deferred financing costs

        (20.5 )

Fees related to early extinguishment/modification of debt

    (0.2 )   (2.5 )

Dividend distributions to noncontrolling shareholders

    (6.6 )   (47.3 )

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

    (3.9 )   83.1  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

    0.1     1.0  

Net decrease in cash

    (11.9 )   (13.5 )

Cash, beginning of period

    27.0     40.5  

Cash, end of period

  $ 15.1   $ 27.0  

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

             

Interest paid

  $ 7.4   $ 16.6  

Income taxes paid, net of refunds

    20.9     36.8  

Non-cash investing activities:

             

Acquisition of capital equipment included in accounts payable

    20.5     25.9  

Non-cash financing activities:

             

Purchase of noncontrolling interest

    138.5      

   

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

F-86


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN PARENT COMPANY EQUITY

(Dollars in millions)

 
   
  Parent Company Equity    
 
 
  Total   Parent Company
Investment
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
(Loss) Income
  Noncontrolling
Interest
 

Balance, January 1, 2012

  $ 811.8   $ 510.7   $ (8.4 ) $ 309.5  

Dividend distribution to noncontrolling shareholder

    (47.0 )           (47.0 )

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

    (30.8 )       (18.0 )   (12.8 )

Net income

    27.8     9.4         18.4  

Net transfers to Parent

    (79.5 )   (79.5 )        

Balance, December 31, 2012

    682.3     440.6     (26.4 )   268.1  

Dividend distribution to noncontrolling shareholder

    (6.6 )           (6.6 )

Purchase of noncontrolling interest

        138.5     (27.4 )   (111.1 )

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

    80.0         78.6     1.4  

Net (loss) income

    (54.3 )   (55.5 )       1.2  

Net transfers from Parent

    522.2     522.2          

Balance, December 31, 2013

  $ 1,223.6   $ 1,045.8   $ 24.8   $ 153.0  

   

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

F-87


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES:

              Organization —The combined financial statements include the accounts of several of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. ("Rockwood" or "Parent") businesses, comprised of Titanium Dioxide Pigments, Color Pigments and Services, Timber Treatment Chemicals, Rubber/Thermoplastics Compounding and Water Chemistry businesses ("Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other"), as one combined company (the "Company").

              The Titanium Dioxide Pigments ("Titanium Dioxide") business operates under the Sachtleben brand name and is a leading producer of high quality chemical products with a unique range of small inorganic particles that add significant value to customers' products and reduce the cost of customers' production processes. The Titanium Dioxide business was a venture (the "Titanium Dioxide Venture") that was formed in September 2008 between Rockwood (61% interest) and Kemira Oyj ("Kemira", 39% interest). In February 2013, Rockwood acquired Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide Venture, resulting in Rockwood owning 100% of the Titanium Dioxide Venture. The Titanium Dioxide business is a leading producer of specialty grade titanium dioxide, serving a wide variety of international customers in the synthetic fibers, plastics, paints, packaging inks, coatings, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and paper industries. Titanium dioxide is a fine white powder that derives its value from its unparalleled whitening strength and opacifying ability, which is commonly referred to as hiding power. The Titanium Dioxide businesses principal products include titanium dioxide in anatase grade, titanium dioxide in rutile grade and titanium specialties. This business also provides recycling services for sulfuric waste acid. The Functional Additives business line of Titanium Dioxide is a leading global manufacturer of barium-based and zinc-based inorganic fine white pigments and additives. The main function of these products is to improve brilliance of colors and shine of coatings, improve the mechanical strength of plastic parts and prevent degradation due to exposure to light, particularly serving diverse end-markets, including the plastics industry, the coatings industry and the pharmaceutical industry.

              The Color Pigments and Services business is a global producer of synthetic iron-oxide and other inorganic pigments, and serves the construction, paints and coatings, plastics, and specialty application markets with powder, granular and liquid grades primarily in North America and Europe. Color Pigments and Services focuses on developing and manufacturing high value-added inorganic pigments. The business also offers a number of unique pigment dispensing systems and has been driven by product innovation, its brand names and its customer and technical service, including customer-specific color blending.

              The Timber Treatment Chemicals business is a manufacturer of wood protection products primarily in North America. In 2007, the Company's Chemical Specialties, Inc. ("CSI") subsidiary within the Timber Treatment Chemicals business and The Dow Chemical Company ("Dow") formed a joint venture, Viance, LLC ("Viance"). Applications for the Company's products include wood protection products used for decking, fencing, playground equipment, garden furniture, house construction materials, utility poles and other wood constructions. In addition, Timber Treatment Chemicals provides a broad range of technical expertise and services to its customers. Timber Treatment Chemicals also manufactures inorganic chemicals such as nitrates and chlorides for various industrial applications including, chemicals that are added to concrete as curing accelerants and corrosion inhibitors, chemicals that are used for odor control in water treatment, galvanizing fluxes, micronutrients, pesticides and catalysts used in the manufacture of textile resins.

F-88


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

              The Rubber/Thermoplastics Compounding business is active primarily in the European automotive market, with products made of rubber, thermoplastic and polyurethane materials.

              The Water Chemistry business is a manufacturer of polyaluminium chloride, or PAC, and polyaluminium nitrate-based flocculants in Central Europe. Flocculants are added to water to improve its purity before, during and after its use in industrial, commercial and municipal applications. PAC flocculants are widely used in public, industrial and swimming pool water treatment and as a process agent in the paper industry.

              In September 2013, Rockwood announced that it entered into a definitive agreement to sell certain of its Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other businesses to Huntsman Corporation. Completion of the proposed sale is subject to certain conditions, including approval of anti-trust authorities. The businesses subject to the purchase and sale agreement constitute substantially all of the Company's assets and liabilities and substantially all of the Company's operations.

              Basis of Presentation —The combined financial statements reflect the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as Rockwood was historically managing it, prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP"), and have been derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of Rockwood, principally from statements and records represented in the businesses described above.

              All revenue, assets and liabilities and most expenses reflected in the combined financial statements are directly associated with the Company. In addition, certain general corporate overhead expenses have been allocated by Rockwood to the Company. The Company used certain underlying activity drivers as a basis of allocation, including net sales and headcount. Management believes such allocations are reasonable; however, they may not be indicative of the actual results of the Company had the Company been operating as an independent company for the periods presented or the amounts that will be incurred by the Company in the future. Actual costs that may have been incurred if the Company had been a stand-alone company for the periods presented would depend on a number of factors, including the Company's chosen organizational structure, what functions were outsourced or performed by the Company's employees and strategic decisions made in areas such as information technology systems and infrastructure. Note 2, "Related Party Transactions" provides further information regarding general corporate overhead allocations.

              All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. All significant intercompany transactions between the Company and Rockwood have been included in these combined financial statements and are considered to be effectively settled for cash in the combined financial statements at the time the transaction is recorded. The total net effect of the settlement of these intercompany transactions is reflected in the combined statements of cash flows as a financing activity and in the combined balance sheets as "Parent company investment." The Company has evaluated whether any subsequent events have occurred through June 9, 2014, the date the combined financial statements were available to be issued.

              Rockwood uses a centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations. The majority of the Company's subsidiaries are party to Rockwood's cash concentration arrangements with four financial institutions to maximize the availability of cash for general operating and investing

F-89


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

purposes. Under two of the cash concentration arrangements, cash balances are swept daily from the Company's accounts, whose owners are party to the arrangements into Rockwood's concentration accounts. Cash transfers to and from Rockwood's cash concentration accounts and the resulting balances at the end of each reporting period are reflected in "Parent company investment" in the equity section on the combined balance sheets.

              Rockwood's third-party debt, and the related interest expense, has not been allocated to the Company for any of the periods presented as the Company was not the legal obligor of the debt and the Rockwood borrowings were not directly attributable to the Company's business.

              The Company's noncontrolling interest represents the total of the noncontrolling party's interest in certain investments (principally the Titanium Dioxide Venture and the Viance joint venture) that are combined but less than 100% owned. See Note 2, "Related Party Transactions," for details regarding Rockwood's acquisition of Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide venture in February 2013.

              Unless otherwise noted, all balance sheet items as of December 31, 2013 which are denominated in Euros are converted at the December 31, 2013 and 2012 exchange rates of €1.00 = $1.3743 and €1.00 = $1.3193, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the average rate of exchange of the Euro to the U.S. dollar is $1.3285 and $1.2864, respectively.

              Parent Company Investment —Parent company investment in the combined balance sheets represents Rockwood's historical investment in the Company, the Company's accumulated net earnings after taxes and the net effect of transactions with and allocations from Rockwood. See Note 2, "Related Party Transactions," for additional information.

              Use of Estimates —The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and revenue and expenses during the periods reported. These estimates include, among other things, assessing the collectability of accounts receivable, the use and recoverability of inventory, the valuation of deferred tax assets, the measurement of the accrual for uncertain tax benefits, impairment of property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets, the accrual of environmental and legal reserves, the useful lives of tangible and intangible assets and the measurement of pension obligations, among others. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Such estimates also include the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed as a result of allocations of the purchase price of business combinations consummated.

              Major Customers and Concentration of Credit —The Company has a number of major end-user, retail and original equipment manufacturer customers, with the largest concentration in Europe and the United States. No single customer accounted for more than 2% of net sales during any of the periods presented. The Company does not believe a material part of its business is dependent upon any single customer, the loss of which would have a material long-term impact on the business of the Company. However, the loss of one or more of the Company's largest customers would most likely have a negative short-term impact on the Company's results of operations. Financial instruments which potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk consist primarily of accounts receivable and derivative contracts.

F-90


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

              Accounts Receivable —The allowance for doubtful accounts is estimated at each reporting date based on factors such as receivable age, customer liquidity status and previous write-off history. The Company performs ongoing credit evaluations of customers and generally does not require collateral. Credit insurance is maintained by certain of the Company's businesses. An allowance is maintained for aggregate expected credit losses. Write-offs are charged to the allowance when taken, net of recoveries. Allowance for doubtful account activity is as follows:

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Balance, January 1

  $ 2.1   $ 1.9  

Additions, net of recoveries

    1.4     0.3  

Write-offs

    (0.9 )   (0.1 )

Balance, December 31

  $ 2.6   $ 2.1  

              Revenue Recognition —The Company recognizes revenue when the earnings process is complete. Product sales are recognized when products are shipped to the customer in accordance with the terms of the contract of sale, when title and risk of loss have been transferred, collectability is reasonably assured, and pricing is fixed or determinable. Accruals are made for sales returns and other allowances based on the Company's experience. The Company records shipping and handling costs in cost of products sold and records shipping and handling costs billed to customers in net sales. Revenue under service agreements, which was less than 1% of combined net sales in 2013 and 2012, is realized when the service is performed. Liabilities for product warranties are less than 1% of combined net sales as of December 31, 2013 and 2012.

              Foreign Currency Translation —The functional currency of each of the Company's combined international entities is primarily the respective local currency. Balance sheet accounts of the foreign operations are translated into U.S. dollars at period-end exchange rates and income and expense accounts are translated at average exchange rates during the period. Translation gains and losses related to net assets located outside the U.S. are shown as a component of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), which is a component of Parent company equity on the combined balance sheets. Gains and losses resulting from foreign currency transactions (transactions denominated in a currency other than the entity's functional currency), including intercompany financing arrangements for which settlement is planned or anticipated, are included in determining net income for the period in which exchange rates change.

              Advertising —The Company expenses advertising costs within selling, general and administrative expenses as incurred. Advertising costs are less than 1% of combined net sales in 2013 and 2012.

              Research and Development —Research and development costs are charged to expense within selling, general and administrative expenses, as incurred. Such costs were $15.6 million and $14.5 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

F-91


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

              Cash —Cash in the Company's combined balance sheets represent cash held locally by entities included in its combined financial statements.

              Inventories —Inventories are stated at the lower of cost or market. Cost is determined primarily on average cost or the first-in, first-out method. Inventory quantities on hand are reviewed regularly, and where necessary, provisions for excess and obsolete inventory are recorded based primarily on either the Company's estimated forecast of product demand and production requirements or historical usage. See Note 5, "Inventories."

              Property, Plant and Equipment and Intangible Assets —Property, plant and equipment are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation. Depreciation is determined using the straight-line method over the various asset classes. Estimated lives generally range from 20-30 years for buildings and improvements (including land improvements), 7-12 years for machinery and equipment and 3-5 years for furniture and fixtures. See Note 6, "Property, Plant and Equipment."

              The estimated useful lives of leasehold improvements are the lesser of the estimated life of the improvement or the term of the lease.

              Major renewals and improvements are capitalized and minor replacements, maintenance and repairs are charged to current operations as incurred. Upon retirement or disposal of assets, the cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the balance sheet and any gain or loss is reflected in the statements of operations.

              Intangible assets primarily consists of patents and other intellectual property, trade names and trademarks, and customer relationships. Patents and other intellectual property are recorded at their estimated fair values at the time of acquisition and are being amortized over their estimated remaining useful lives, ranging from 4-20 years. Trade names and trademarks are being amortized from 18-25 years, customer relationships are being amortized over periods ranging from 7-15 years and supply agreements are being amortized over periods ranging from 10-15 years. See Note 7, "Intangible Assets, Net."

              The Company classifies depreciation and amortization in its combined statements of operations consistent with the utilization of the underlying assets as follows:

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Cost of products sold

  $ 94.7   $ 93.4  

Selling, general and administrative expenses (a)

    29.3     28.0  

Total depreciation and amortization

  $ 124.0   $ 121.4  

(a)
Primarily consists of amortization costs.

              Impairment Accounting—Long-lived tangible and intangible assets —These assets are reviewed each reporting period to determine if events or changes in circumstances have occurred indicating that the carrying value of the assets may not be recoverable. Such circumstances may include a significant

F-92


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

adverse change in the manner in which a long-lived asset is used, a current-period operating or cash flow loss combined with projected and/or a history of operating or cash flow losses associated with the use of a long-lived asset, or changes in the expected useful life of the long-lived asset.

              To determine the recoverability of long-lived tangible and other intangible assets, these assets are grouped at the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows that are independent from the cash flows of other assets, which could be at the individual asset level, the product line level, the plant level or the subsidiary level depending on the nature of the identifiable cash flows at our various subsidiaries. Recoverability of assets to be held and used is measured by comparing the carrying amount of the assets or asset group to the sum of future undiscounted net cash flows expected to be generated by the asset or asset group.

              Management estimates future undiscounted cash flows using key assumptions of industry and market conditions, future sales volumes and prices, raw material and labor costs, and inflation rates. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, there were no long-lived assets or asset groups that had a carrying value greater than the sum of corresponding undiscounted cash flows and therefore, we did not perform any applicable fair value calculations to measure any impairment loss.

              If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment loss that would be recognized is the amount by which the carrying amount of the assets exceeds the fair value of the assets. To determine fair value, we would use our internal cash flow estimates discounted at an appropriate interest rate, third party appraisals, as appropriate, and/or market prices of similar assets, when available.

              During 2012, the Company performed recoverability tests of intangible assets related to multiple product lines at Viance. These recoverability tests were performed because actual and historical sales volumes related to these specific products were significantly lower than projected sales volumes primarily due to changes in market conditions. In 2013, there were no indicators of impairment, so no recoverability tests were performed.

              For the intangible assets tested in 2012, the primary reason for lower sales was the decision to delay the introduction of one product to the marketplace and the loss of another product's largest customer. For these recoverability tests, the Company estimated cash flows over the remaining lives of the assets. The primary assumptions used in these analyses were the timing of the penetration of such product in the marketplace and the expected demand. The recoverability test resulted in undiscounted cash flows that substantially exceeded the carrying value of the assets for each product line.

              Based on these tests, the Company concluded that there was no impairment of these assets.

              Financial Instruments —Management believes the carrying amount of financial instruments, including accounts receivable, accounts payable and debt, approximates fair value as described in Note 4, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements."

              Derivatives —All derivatives are recognized as either assets or liabilities at fair value. Changes in the fair value of derivatives not designated as hedging instruments are recognized in earnings. The Company uses derivative instruments to manage its exposure to market risks associated with fluctuations in interest rates. See Note 4, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements" for the

F-93


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

impact of the Company's interest rate hedges. The Company does not enter into derivative contracts for trading purposes nor does it use leveraged or complex instruments.

              Pension, Postemployment and Postretirement Costs —Defined benefit costs and liabilities and postretirement benefit costs and liabilities have been determined in accordance with accounting standards for retirement benefits. Postemployment benefit costs and liabilities have been determined in accordance with accounting standards for nonretirement postemployment benefits. See Note 12, "Employee Benefit Plans," for further details.

              Income Taxes —During the period presented, the Company's U.S. legal entities did not file separate U.S. tax returns, as their operating results were included in the Rockwood consolidated U.S. federal tax return with other Rockwood entities. The Company does file separate foreign and state income tax returns for its legal entities except in one jurisdiction and two states where they are required to be included in a tax grouping of other Rockwood entities. The income tax provisions included in these financial statements were calculated using the separate return basis, as if the Company was a separate taxpayer.

              With the exception of certain entities, the Company does not maintain taxes payable to/from its parent and is deemed to settle the annual current tax balances immediately with the legal tax-paying entities in the respective jurisdictions. These settlements are reflected as changes in "Parent Company Investment" within equity in the combined balance sheets.

              The provision for income taxes has been determined using the asset and liability approach of accounting for income taxes. Under this approach, deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognized for future tax consequences attributable to differences between the financial statement carrying amounts and the corresponding tax carrying amounts of assets and liabilities. Deferred tax assets are also recognized for tax loss and tax credit carryforwards. A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized based on available evidence weighted toward evidence that is objectively verifiable. Deferred taxes are not provided on the undistributed earnings of subsidiaries as such amounts are considered to be permanently invested.

              The impact of an uncertain income tax position on the income tax return must be recognized at the largest amount that is more-likely-than-not to be sustained upon audit by the relevant authority. An uncertain income tax position will not be recognized if it has less than a 50% likelihood of being sustained based on technical merits.

              The Company records liabilities for uncertain tax benefits net of deferred tax assets associated with tax loss carryforwards for liabilities arising in the same year as the asset and for liabilities arising in different years from the asset, provided that the related tax loss can be carried back or forward to offset the liability.

              Future realization of the tax benefit of an existing deductible temporary difference or carryforward ultimately depends on the existence of sufficient taxable income of the appropriate character (for example, ordinary income or capital gain) within the carryforward period available under the tax law. The Company's policy is to consider the following sources of taxable income, which may be

F-94


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

available under the tax law to realize a tax benefit for deductible temporary differences and carryforwards:

    Future reversals of existing taxable temporary differences.

    Future taxable income exclusive of reversing temporary differences and carryforwards.

    Taxable income in prior carry back year(s) if carry back is permitted under the tax law.

    Tax planning strategies that would, if necessary, be implemented to:

    (1)
    Accelerate taxable amounts to utilize expiring carryforwards.

    (2)
    Change the character of taxable or deductible amounts from ordinary income or loss to capital gain or loss.

    (3)
    Switch from tax-exempt to taxable investments.

              Evidence available about each of those possible sources of taxable income will vary between tax jurisdictions and, possibly, from year to year. To the extent evidence about one or more sources of taxable income is sufficient to support a conclusion that a valuation allowance is not necessary, the Company's policy is that other sources need not be considered. Consideration of each source is required, however, to determine the amount of the valuation allowance that may be required to be recognized for deferred tax assets.

              For any specific jurisdiction where a history of three years of cumulative losses has occurred or where there has been a substantial change in the business (e.g., a major acquisition or divestiture); the Company does not rely on projections of future taxable income as described above. Instead, the Company determines its need for a valuation allowance on deferred tax assets, if any, by determining a normalized cumulative taxable income amount over the last three years, adjusted for acquisitions or divestitures if necessary. The Company will also consider the following positive evidence in the above scenarios, if present:

    Existing contracts or firm sales backlog that will produce more than enough taxable income to realize the deferred tax asset based on existing sales prices and cost structures.

    An excess of appreciated asset value over the tax basis of the entity's net assets in an amount sufficient to realize the deferred tax asset.

              Comprehensive Income (Loss) —Comprehensive income (loss) includes net income and the other comprehensive income (loss) components, which include unrealized gains and losses from foreign currency translation and pension-related adjustments that are recorded directly into a separate section of Parent company equity in the balance sheet. Foreign currency translation amounts are not adjusted for income taxes since they relate to indefinite life investments in non-U.S. combined international entities. See Note 14, "Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss)."

              Accounting for Environmental Liabilities —In the ordinary course of business, the Company is subject to extensive and changing federal, state, local and foreign environmental laws and regulations, and has made provisions for the estimated financial impact of environmental cleanup and site reclamation costs. The Company's policy has been to accrue costs of a non-capital nature related to

F-95


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

environmental clean-up when those costs are believed to be probable and can be reasonably estimated. If the aggregate amount of the obligation and the amount and timing of the cash payments for a site are fixed or reliably determinable, the liability is discounted. Expenditures that extend the life of the related property or mitigate or prevent future environmental contamination are capitalized and expenditures related to existing conditions resulting from past or present operations and from which no current or future benefit is discernible are immediately expensed. The quantification of environmental exposures requires an assessment of many factors, including changing laws and regulations, advancements in environmental technologies, the quality of information available related to specific sites, the assessment stage of each site investigation and the length of time involved in remediation or settlement. In some matters, the Company may share costs with other parties. The Company does not include anticipated recoveries from insurance carriers or other third parties in its accruals for environmental liabilities.

              Stock-Based Compensation —Rockwood sponsors stock-incentive plans in which certain employees of the Company participate. As the stock-based compensation plans are Rockwood plans, amounts have been recognized through Parent company equity on the combined balance sheets.

              Stock-based compensation awards issued to employees since 2010 relate to market-based and performance-based restricted stock units. Stock-based compensation costs are recognized within selling, general and administrative costs at fair value over the requisite service period on a straight-line basis. The calculated compensation cost is reduced by a forfeiture rate based on an estimate of awards not expected to vest. The fair value of restricted stock units was estimated on the date of grant using the Monte Carlo simulation model as they are tied to market conditions. See Note 11, "Stock-based Compensation" for further details.

              Recently Issued Accounting Standards —In February 2013, the FASB issued an ASU that addressed the reporting of amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). The amendments in this ASU do not change the current requirements for reporting net income or other comprehensive income (loss), but will require companies to present the effects of the line items of net income of significant amounts reclassified out of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). This ASU has been adopted in these financial statements and did not have a material impact.

              In February 2013, the FASB issued an ASU that addressed obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation is fixed at the reporting date. This ASU provides guidance for the recognition, measurement, and disclosure of obligations resulting from joint and several liability arrangements for which the total amount of the obligation within the scope of this ASU is fixed at the reporting date, except for obligations addressed within existing guidance in U.S. GAAP. The guidance requires an entity to measure those obligations as the sum of the amount the reporting entity agreed to pay on the basis of its arrangement among its co-obligors and any additional amount the reporting entity expects to pay on behalf of its co-obligors. The guidance in this ASU also requires an entity to disclose the nature and amount of the obligation as well as other information about those obligations. This ASU is effective for the Company in its first quarter beginning January 1, 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

F-96


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES: (Continued)

              In March 2013, the FASB issued an ASU that addressed the release of the cumulative translation adjustment (CTA) into net income when a parent either sells a part or all of its investment in a foreign entity or no longer holds a controlling financial interest in a subsidiary or group of assets that is a business. This ASU requires a parent to release any related CTA into net income only if the sale results in the complete or substantially complete liquidation of the foreign entity. This practice is consistent with the Company's previous accounting policy and will not have an impact on the Company's financial statements. This ASU is effective for the Company in its first quarter beginning January 1, 2015.

              In July 2013, the FASB issued an ASU that eliminates diversity in practice for presentation of an unrecognized tax benefit when a net operating loss ("NOL") carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryfoward is available to reduce the taxable income or tax payable that would result from disallowance of a tax position. Under this ASU, an entity must present an unrecognized tax benefit, or a portion of an unrecognized tax benefit, in the financial statements as a reduction to a deferred tax asset for an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryfoward except when: an NOL carryforward, a similar tax loss, or a tax credit carryfoward is not available as of the reporting date under the governing tax law to settle taxes that would result from the disallowance of the tax position; and the entity does not intend to use the deferred tax asset for this purpose. This ASU is effective for the Company in its first quarter beginning January 1, 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's financial statements.

2. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

Trade Activity

              In the ordinary course of business, the Company has engaged in transactions with certain related parties. The Company had sales to Rockwood and its affiliates of $4.8 million and $7.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Purchases from Rockwood and its affiliates, primarily related to insurance, were $22.3 million and $19.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company had amounts due from Rockwood and its affiliates of $1.2 million and $1.7 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and amounts due to Rockwood and its affiliates of $1.5 million and $5.0 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

Allocation of General Corporate Overhead

              These combined statements of operations include expense allocations for certain expenses related to centralized functions historically provided to the Company by Rockwood, including general expenses related to centralized functions such as executive oversight, risk management, information technology, treasury, tax, legal, human resources, internal and external audit and accounting. These allocations are based on specific identification, the percentage of the Company's net sales and headcount to the respective total Rockwood net sales and headcount. These allocations are reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in these combined statements of operations and totaled $23.9 million and $18.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Further discussion of allocations is included in Note 1, "Basis of Presentation and Significant Accounting Policies."

F-97


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS: (Continued)

Parent Company Equity

              The majority of the Company's subsidiaries are party to Rockwood's cash concentration arrangements with four financial institutions to maximize the availability of cash for general operating and investing purposes. Under two of the cash concentration arrangements, cash balances are swept daily from the Company's accounts into Rockwood's concentration accounts. At December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company's payable to Rockwood resulting from the cash concentration arrangements was $65.8 million and $81.2 million, respectively. The resulting payable to Rockwood at the end of each reporting period are reflected in "Parent company investment" in the equity section on the combined balance sheets.

              In addition to cash concentration arrangements, the net transfers to and from Rockwood were general financing activities, cash transfers for acquisitions, investments and various allocations from Rockwood. The total net effect of the settlement of these intercompany transactions is reflected in the combined statements of cash flows as a financing activity. Intercompany funding with Rockwood and related interest expense has not been reflected in the combined financial statements and are included as a component of "Parent company investment" in the combined balance sheets.

Titanium Dioxide Venture

              On February 15, 2013, Rockwood acquired Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide Venture for a purchase price of €97.5 million ($130.3 million based on the rate in effect on the date of purchase). As a result, Rockwood now owns 100% of the Titanium Dioxide Venture. The acquisition of Kemira's 39% interest is shown as a component of "Parent company investment" in the Company's combined balance sheets.

              In conjunction with the formation of the former Titanium Dioxide Venture in September 2008, the Titanium Dioxide Venture entered into a long-term agreement expiring in August 2018 to purchase steam and electricity ("energy") from Kemira. The Titanium Dioxide Venture purchased $45.4 million and $33.4 million of energy from Kemira during 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, $6.1 million and $4.3 million, respectively, was due to Kemira for energy purchases. In 2009, the Titanium Dioxide Venture also made a contractual advance of $16.0 million in connection with this agreement. Minimum annual payments under the energy agreement are approximately $15.8 million per year. The Company has a non-interest bearing note receivable from its former Titanium Dioxide Venture partner in the amount of $29.4 million that is due in August 2028 with a carrying value of $7.4 million and $6.5 million in the combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Interest is imputed at an effective rate of 8.96%. The fair value of the note receivable is approximately $13.6 million and $13.8 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012.

              Further, as part of the formation of the former Titanium Dioxide Venture, the Titanium Dioxide Venture entered into a long-term supply agreement for the sale of certain raw materials to Kemira that are manufactured by the venture. The term of this contract expires in December 2015. Transactions between the Titanium Dioxide Venture and Kemira consisted of sales to Kemira of $3.5 million and $3.6 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively, and amounts due from Kemira of $0.8 million and $1.2 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

F-98


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

2. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS: (Continued)

Viance Joint Venture

              In conjunction with the formation of the Viance joint venture between CSI and Dow, Viance entered into certain related party transactions. Viance does not own manufacturing facilities, and as a result, relies on the members of the joint venture to provide substantially all production requirements. In addition, the members sell products to Viance.

3. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES:

Viance Joint Venture

              The Viance joint venture provides an extensive range of advanced wood treatment technologies and services to the global wood treatment industry. The Company has concluded that it is the primary beneficiary of Viance and as such has combined the joint venture. This conclusion was made as the Company has the obligation to absorb losses of Viance that could potentially be significant to Viance and/or the right to receive benefits from Viance that could potentially be significant to Viance. In addition, the Company has the power to direct the activities of Viance that most significantly impact Viance's performance, as Viance does not own manufacturing facilities. As a result, Viance primarily relies on the Company to provide product and distribution requirements through a supply agreement.

              At December 31, 2013 and 2012, no combined assets of the Company were pledged as collateral for any obligations of Viance and the general creditors of Viance had no recourse against the Company. Viance's assets can only be used to settle direct obligations of Viance.

              The carrying values of the assets and liabilities of the Viance joint venture included in the combined balance sheets are as follows:

 
  As of
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  

Cash

  $ 2.9   $ 3.6  

Other current assets

    8.6     7.3  

Total current assets

    11.5     10.9  

Other intangible assets, net

    51.7     58.2  

Other assets

    1.7     4.8  

Total assets

  $ 64.9   $ 73.9  

Total liabilities

  $ 3.6   $ 5.0  

Titanium Dioxide Venture

              In September 2008, Rockwood completed the formation of the Titanium Dioxide Venture that focuses on specialty titanium dioxide pigments. The Titanium Dioxide Venture includes the combination of the Company's titanium dioxide pigments and functional additives businesses, including its production facility in Duisburg, Germany, and Kemira's titanium dioxide business, including Kemira's titanium dioxide plant in Pori, Finland. The Company has not identified significant variable interests in this venture and accordingly has concluded that this venture does not meet the definition of

F-99


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

3. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES: (Continued)

a variable interest entity ("VIE"). The Company owned 61% of the Titanium Dioxide Venture and combined it based on the "voting interest" model given its majority ownership and ability to control decision making. Kemira only has certain "protective rights" to limit Rockwood's control.

              In conjunction with this venture, there is a power plant that is legally owned and operated by a Finnish power cooperative ("PVO"). Kemira is a cooperative participant and has an indirect interest in the power plant via ownership of a special share class. The venture utilizes the majority of power supplied. This power plant was determined to be a VIE as the equity holders of the power plant as a group (including Kemira) lack the ability to influence decision making since PVO effectively controls the power plant. It was determined that Rockwood and Kemira jointly form the primary beneficiary of the power plant. The Titanium Dioxide Venture has a long-term agreement expiring in August 2018 to purchase steam and electricity ("energy") from Kemira. Due to the terms of this agreement under which Kemira has the risks and benefits of the majority of the expected life of the power plant, the Company concluded that Kemira is the party most closely associated with the power plant and therefore is the primary beneficiary within the related party group. Accordingly, the Company does not consolidate the power plant. Apart from routine payables to Kemira or the PVO in connection with this agreement, no results or balances of the power plant are reflected in the Company's financial statements. See Note 2, "Related Party Transactions" for more details regarding the energy agreement. On February 15, 2013, Rockwood acquired Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide Venture for a purchase price of €97.5 million ($130.3 million based on the rate in effect on the date of purchase). As a result, Rockwood now owns 100% of the Titanium Dioxide Venture. Subsequent to the repurchase of Kemira's 39% interest, the power plant will continue to be a VIE.

4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS:

              Financial instruments include accounts receivable, accounts payable, debt instruments and derivatives. Due to their short term maturity, the carrying amount of receivables and payables approximates fair value. The Company has exposure to market risk from changes in interest rates. As a result, certain derivative financial instruments may be used when available on a cost-effective basis to hedge the underlying economic exposure. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognized in earnings as they occur. Derivative financial instruments are not used for trading purposes.

Interest Rate Swaps Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

              In June 2012, the Company's Titanium Dioxide Venture entered into a new facility agreement (See Note 8, "Long-Term Debt") which requires the Titanium Dioxide Venture to convert 50% of the term loan balances from variable to fixed interest rates for a period of two years.

              To comply with the requirement to convert 50% of the term loan balances from variable to fixed interest rates, the Titanium Dioxide Venture entered into interest rate swaps ("New Swaps") in July 2012 with an aggregate notional amount of €400.0 million. The New Swaps mature in September 2014. The Company has not applied hedge accounting for these interest rate swaps and has recorded the mark-to-market adjustment of these derivatives as a component of interest expense in its combined statements of operations. Including the effect of the interest rate swaps, all outstanding debt is at a fixed-rate as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. The Company may in the future consider adjusting the amounts covered by these derivative contracts to better suit its capital structure and may allow all or a portion of these swaps to lapse, enter into replacement swaps or settle these swaps prior to expiration.

F-100


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: (Continued)

              Prior to executing the new facility agreement, the Titanium Dioxide Venture had entered into interest rate swaps to manage its exposure to changes in interest rates related to certain variable-rate debt. These contracts effectively converted all of the obligations under the Titanium Dioxide Venture's term loan facility to fixed rate obligations. In July 2012, these interest rate swaps were terminated and the fair market value of these swaps was transferred into the New Swaps. As a result of the repayment of all borrowings under the Titanium Dioxide facility agreement in March 2013, the Titanium Dioxide Venture terminated the outstanding interest rate swaps, resulting in a payment of €3.0 million ($3.9 million based on exchange rates in effect on the date of transaction). See Note 8, "Long-term Debt" for further details.

              The following table provides the fair value and balance sheet location of the Company's derivative instruments as of December 31, 2012:

 
  As of December 31, 2012  
 
  Balance Sheet
Location
  Notional   Fair Value  
 
   
  ($ in millions)
 

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:

                 

Interest rate swaps

  Accrued expenses and other current liabilities   $ 662.9     3.0  

  Other liabilities           1.8  

Total derivatives

            $ 4.8  

              All financial instruments, including derivatives, are subject to counterparty credit risk which is considered as part of the overall fair value measurement. Counterparty credit risk is mitigated by entering into derivative contracts with only major financial institutions of investment grade quality and by limiting the amount of exposure to each financial institution. The Company has considered credit adjustments in its determination of the fair value of its derivative assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, based on market participant assumptions. In addition, based on the credit evaluation of each counter-party institution as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the Company believes the carrying values to be fully realizable. No counterparty has experienced a significant downgrade in 2013 or 2012 and the combined financial statements would not be materially impacted if any counterparties failed to perform according to the terms of its agreement. Under the terms of the agreements, posting of collateral is not required by any party whether derivatives are in an asset or liability position.

F-101


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: (Continued)

              The following table provides the gains and losses reported in the combined statements of operations for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:

 
  Amount of
Gain or (Loss)
Recognized in
Income on
Derivatives
   
 
  Year ended
December 31,
   
 
  Location of Gain or
(Loss) Recognized in
Income on
 
  2013   2012
 
  ($ in millions)
   

Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments:

               

  $ 0.9   $ (2.3 ) Interest expense

Total derivatives

  $ 0.9   $ (2.3 )  

              The Company follows a fair value measurement hierarchy to measure assets and liabilities. The Company did not have any liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of December 31, 2013. As of December 31, 2012, the liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis are derivatives. In addition, the Company measures its pension plan assets at fair value (see Note 12, "Employee Benefit Plans," for further details). The Company's financial assets and liabilities are measured using inputs from the three levels of the fair value hierarchy as follows:

Level 1—   Inputs are unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2—

 

Inputs are directly or indirectly observable, which include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. The fair values of derivatives are based on quoted market prices from various banks for similar instruments. The valuation of these instruments reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including forward curves.

Level 3—

 

Inputs are unobservable inputs that are used to measure fair value to the extent observable inputs are not available. The Company does not have any recurring financial assets or liabilities that are recorded on its combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2012 that are classified as Level 3 inputs.

F-102


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: (Continued)

              In accordance with the fair value hierarchy, the following table provides the fair value of the Company's recurring financial liabilities that are required to be measured at fair value as of December 31, 2012:

 
  As of
December 31,
2012
 
 
  Total   Level 2  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Liabilities

             

Interest rate swaps

  $ 4.8   $ 4.8  

Total liabilities at fair value

  $ 4.8   $ 4.8  

Note Receivable

              The Company has a non-interest bearing note receivable from its former Titanium Dioxide Venture partner in the amount of $29.4 million that is due in August 2028 with a carrying value of $7.4 million and $6.5 million in the combined balance sheets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The fair value of the note receivable is approximately $13.6 million and $13.8 million at December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, and is categorized as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value is determined based on an internally developed valuation that uses current interest rates in developing a present value of the receivable.

Debt

              As of December 31, 2012, the carrying value of the Company's term loans under the Titanium Dioxide Venture facility agreement approximated fair value as they bore interest based on prevailing variable market rates available. As a result, the Company categorized these term loans as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. In March 2013, the Company repaid all borrowings under the Titanium Dioxide facility agreement. See Note 8, "Long-term Debt" for further details.

5. INVENTORIES:

              Inventories are comprised of the following:

 
  As of
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Raw materials

  $ 142.0   $ 168.2  

Work-in-progress

    26.1     27.6  

Finished goods

    249.1     290.7  

Packaging materials

    3.2     3.5  

Total

  $ 420.4   $ 490.0  

F-103


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

6. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT, NET:

              Property, plant and equipment, net is comprised of the following:

 
  As of December 31,  
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Land

  $ 52.9   $ 52.2  

Buildings and improvements, including land improvements

    297.1     271.6  

Machinery and equipment

    1,042.7     954.5  

Furniture and fixtures

    53.2     48.3  

Construction-in-progress

    125.3     60.3  

Property, plant and equipment, at cost

    1,571.2     1,386.9  

Less accumulated depreciation

    (807.6 )   (686.2 )

Property, plant and equipment, net

  $ 763.6   $ 700.7  

              Depreciation expense of property, plant and equipment was $98.2 million and $96.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

7. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET:

 
  As of December 31, 2013   As of December 31, 2012  
 
  Gross
Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Net   Gross
Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Net  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Patents and other intellectual property

  $ 160.1   $ (75.9 ) $ 84.2   $ 154.7   $ (63.9 ) $ 90.8  

Trade names and trademarks

    39.6     (14.0 )   25.6     38.1     (11.7 )   26.4  

Customer relationships

    125.9     (62.1 )   63.8     121.9     (52.3 )   69.6  

Supply agreements

    48.2     (25.4 )   22.8     47.2     (20.9 )   26.3  

Other

    16.9     (12.7 )   4.2     13.3     (10.1 )   3.2  

Total

  $ 390.7   $ (190.1 ) $ 200.6   $ 375.2   $ (158.9 ) $ 216.3  

              Amortization of other intangible assets was $25.8 million and $25.3 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

              Estimated amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years is as follows:

 
  Amortization
Expense
 
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Year ending

       

2014

  $ 26.3  

2015

    25.8  

2016

    24.2  

2017

    23.0  

2018

    21.9  

F-104


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

7. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET: (Continued)

              Goodwill —The Company does not have any goodwill recorded as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, as it recorded a full impairment charge of $642.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2008.

8. LONG-TERM DEBT:

              Long-term debt is summarized as follows:

 
  As of
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ and € in
millions)

 

TiO 2 Venture term loans:

             

Facility A (€190.0)

  $   $ 250.7  

Facility B (€200.0)

        263.8  

Capitalized lease obligations

    3.1     3.9  

Other loans

    5.4     16.5  

Total

    8.5     534.9  

Less current maturities

    (3.2 )   (516.2 )

Total long-term debt

  $ 5.3   $ 18.7  

              Maturities of long-term debt are as follows:

 
  ($ in millions)  

2014

  $ 3.2  

2015

    1.1  

2016

    1.0  

2017

    0.4  

2018

    0.2  

Thereafter

    2.6  

Total

  $ 8.5  

Titanium Dioxide Venture term loans and revolving credit facility

              In June 2012, the Company's Titanium Dioxide Venture, Sachtleben GmbH, entered into a new facility agreement, consisting of €190.0 million of term loan A, €200.0 million of term loan B and a €30.0 million revolving credit facility. The Titanium Dioxide Venture used the proceeds to retire existing term loans (€195.0 million—$244.1 million based on the exchange rate in effect on the date of payment), pay a dividend to the venture partners (€88.8 million—$112.3 million based on the exchange rate in effect on the date of payment, of which $68.5 million was paid to Rockwood and $43.8 million was paid to Kemira) and to acquire certain business assets, including production assets and inventory, of crenox GmbH. The Company recorded a charge of $2.8 million in 2012 comprised of fees incurred of $2.5 million and the write-off of deferred financing costs of $0.3 million in connection with the refinancing of the Titanium Dioxide Venture facility agreement.

F-105


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

8. LONG-TERM DEBT: (Continued)

              As of December 31, 2012, the availability under the revolving credit facility was €4.5 million ($6.0 million) after an outstanding bank guarantee of €25.5 million ($33.6 million) related to a Titanium Dioxide Pigments defined benefit pension obligation in Finland.

              As of December 31, 2012, the interest rate on term loan A and the revolving credit facility was Euribor plus 3.25% and the interest rate on term loan B was Euribor plus 3.50%, both subject to an adjustment determined by reference to a leverage ratio test. Term loan A was payable in semi-annual installments over its five-year term. Term loan B and the revolving credit facility had a maturity of five years. The term loan and revolving credit facility may be repaid in advance without penalty.

              The loans were secured by the assets of the Titanium Dioxide Venture. The revolving credit facility agreement contained affirmative and restrictive covenants and also required the Titanium Dioxide Venture to meet certain financial covenants. The Company was in compliance with the above covenants as of December 31, 2012.

              In March 2013, the Company prepaid all of its outstanding borrowings under its Titanium Dioxide Pigments facility agreement using cash on hand and contributions from Rockwood. The aggregate amount prepaid was €394.5 million ($512.4 million), consisting of €190.0 million ($246.8 million) of term loan A, €200.0 million ($259.8 million) of term loan B and a €4.5 million ($5.8 million) revolving credit facility. The U.S. dollar amounts above were all based on the exchange rate in effect on the date of payment. In connection with this prepayment, the Company recorded a charge of $17.2 million related to the write-off of deferred financing costs. In addition, as a result of the prepayment, Rockwood has an outstanding bank guarantee of €25.5 million ($33.6 million) related to a Titanium Dioxide Pigments defined benefit pension obligation in Finland that was previously secured by the Titanium Dioxide Pigments facility agreement.

Other loans

              The Company has Euro-denominated loan facilities that provide aggregate outstanding borrowings of approximately €2.3 million ($3.2 million) and €10.9 million ($14.4 million) as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. As of December 31, 2013, these loans mature in 2019 and bear annual interest rates ranging up to 5.00%. In addition, the Company has a loan facility denominated in Chinese Renminbi providing for borrowings of an aggregate U.S. dollar equivalent amount of $2.2 million and $2.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. This loan matures in 2015 and bears an annual interest rate of 3.00%.

              As of December 31, 2013 and 2012, the weighted average interest rate for the Company was 4.96% and 4.13%, respectively, excluding deferred financing costs.

F-106


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. INCOME TAXES:

              During the periods presented, the Company's U.S. legal entities did not file separate U.S. federal tax returns, as their operating results were included in the Rockwood consolidated U.S. federal tax return with other Rockwood entities. The Company does file separate foreign and state income tax returns for its legal entities except in one jurisdiction and two states where they are required to be included in a tax grouping of other Rockwood entities. The income tax provisions included in these combined financial statements were calculated using the separate return basis, as if the Company was a separate taxpayer. With the exception of certain dedicated entities, the Company did not maintain taxes payable to/from its parent and is deemed to settle the annual current tax balances immediately with the legal tax-paying entities in the respective jurisdictions. These settlements are reflected as changes in "Parent Company Investment" within equity in the combined balance sheets.

              (Loss) income before income taxes is as follows:

 
  Year Ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

United States

  $ (4.2 ) $ (10.6 )

Foreign

    (61.7 )   50.1  

Total

  $ (65.9 ) $ 39.5  

              The (benefit) provision for taxes on income (loss) consisted of the following:

 
  Year Ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Current income tax expense:

             

Federal

  $ 0.2   $ 0.5  

State

    0.6     0.5  

Foreign

    3.6     21.8  

    4.4     22.8  

Deferred income tax expense:

             

Federal

    0.1      

State

    0.6      

Foreign

    (16.7 )   (11.1 )

    (16.0 )   (11.1 )

Total (benefit) provision for taxes

  $ (11.6 ) $ 11.7  

              Changes in tax rates impact the tax (benefit) provision in the year a rate change is enacted.

              Deferred income taxes are provided for the effects of temporary differences between the carrying value of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts recognized for income tax purposes. The deferred tax assets and liabilities are determined on a jurisdictional basis by

F-107


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. INCOME TAXES: (Continued)

applying the enacted relevant tax rate in the year in which the temporary difference is expected to reverse.

              The tax effects of the major items recorded as deferred tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

 
  As of
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Current deferred income tax assets, net:

             

Allowance for doubtful accounts

  $ 0.4   $  

Restructuring

    0.7     1.1  

Derivative instruments

    (0.3 )   0.7  

Other current reserves and accruals

    2.4     1.5  

Valuation allowance

    (1.5 )   (0.1 )

Total current deferred income tax assets, net

    1.7     3.2  

Noncurrent deferred income tax assets:

             

Investment basis difference

    50.7     50.8  

Pension and postretirement benefits

    39.0     48.7  

Tax loss carryforwards and credits

    64.4     41.2  

Other noncurrent reserves and accruals

    5.5     4.3  

Foreign exchange on debt

    0.1     0.1  

Derivative instruments

        0.7  

Other

    1.9     2.2  

Valuation allowance

    (49.1 )   (43.7 )

Total noncurrent deferred income tax assets

    112.5     104.3  

Noncurrent deferred income tax liabilities:

             

Goodwill and other intangibles

    (23.2 )   (22.7 )

Property, plant and equipment

    (38.2 )   (39.1 )

Total noncurrent deferred income tax liabilities

    (61.4 )   (61.8 )

Net deferred income tax asset

  $ 52.8   $ 45.7  

F-108


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. INCOME TAXES: (Continued)

              Reconciliations of the U.S. statutory income tax rate to the effective tax rate are as follows:

 
  Year Ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  

Federal statutory rate

    35.0 %   35.0 %

State taxes, net of federal effect

    0.8     (1.0 )

Foreign/U.S. tax differential

    (14.5 )   (16.7 )

Increase in valuation allowance

    (8.6 )   8.9  

Noncontrolling interest

    1.2     (0.7 )

Other

    3.7     4.1  

Effective tax rate

    17.6 %   29.6 %

              The 2013 effective tax rate was lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to a beneficial foreign earnings mix of (14.5)% primarily in Finland, Germany and the U.K., as well as an increase in the valuation allowance of (8.6)% on a loss before taxes, primarily in the U.S.

              The 2012 effective tax rate was lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to a beneficial foreign earnings mix of (16.7)% primarily in Finland, Germany and the U.K., partially offset by an increase in the valuation allowance of 8.9%, primarily in the U.S.

              As of December 31, 2013, the Company has domestic and foreign corporate tax loss carryforwards (excluding state and local amounts) of approximately $149.5 million, of which $23.6 million expire through 2017, $41.5 million expire through 2033 and $84.4 million which have no current expiration date. The Company has $8.4 million of federal capital loss carryforwards which expire in 2014. Additionally, the Company has U.S. state and local tax loss carryforwards of $101.7 million, of which $1.4 million expire through 2018, $4.8 million expire through 2028 and $95.5 million expiring in years through 2033. The state capital loss carryforwards of $8.4 million expire in 2014. As a result of preparing the tax provision as if the carve-out group is a separate taxpayer, certain deferred tax assets related to net operating loss carryforwards that were recorded on the carve-out balance sheet for the year ended December 31, 2013 were already used by other members of the Rockwood group to reduce taxes payable in those years. As a consequence, the net operating loss carryforwards are not tax attributes that would carryforward to an acquirer of the carve-out group. The acquirer of the carve-out group will also not receive any of the domestic or German net operating loss carryforwards as these amounts will be retained by the seller.

              The worldwide valuation allowance increased by $6.9 million to $50.6 million at December 31, 2013. The valuation allowance as of December 31, 2013 and 2012 was attributable to deferred tax assets related to certain items, such as tax loss carryforwards in China, federal and certain states in the United States for which it was more likely than not that the related tax benefits would not be realized.

F-109


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. INCOME TAXES: (Continued)

              A table reflecting the activity in the valuation allowance is as follows:

 
  Year Ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Balance, January 1

  $ 43.8   $ 39.9  

Increase as reflected in income tax expense

    7.6     3.6  

Other

    (0.8 )   0.3  

Balance, December 31

  $ 50.6   $ 43.8  

              Deferred taxes are not provided on the undistributed earnings of subsidiaries as such amounts are considered to be permanently invested.

              The Company records liabilities for potential tax assessments upon tax authority audit of its returns in various tax jurisdictions. The liabilities relate to tax return positions which, although supportable by the Company, may be challenged by the tax authorities. The Company adjusts these liabilities as a result of changes in tax legislation, interpretations of laws by Courts, rulings by tax authorities, changes in estimates and the closing of the statute of limitations. The Company's effective tax rate in any given year includes the impact of any changes to these liabilities. Favorable resolution of an issue would generally be recognized as a reduction to the Company's annual effective tax rate.

              The Company has classified uncertain tax positions as non-current income tax liabilities (other liabilities) unless expected to be paid within one year. As of December 31, 2013, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits was $4.4 million. A reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances of the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits, which excludes interest and penalties, is as follows:

 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Unrecognized tax benefits at January 1

  $ 4.0   $ 1.4  

Increases in tax positions for prior years

    0.4     2.9  

Decreases due to settlements with taxing authorities

        (0.2 )

Lapse in statute of limitations

        (0.1 )

Unrecognized tax benefits at December 31

  $ 4.4   $ 4.0  

              The Company recognizes interest and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in its income tax provision. The Company had accrued liabilities of $0.5 million and $0.6 million for interest and penalties as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

              In accordance with the Company's policy, where tax losses can be carried back or forward to offset liabilities for uncertain tax benefits, deferred tax assets associated with such tax losses are netted against liabilities for such uncertain tax benefits. This policy results in a $0.5 million and $0.5 million reduction in both liabilities and deferred tax assets as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The Company has unrecognized tax benefits, net of deferred tax assets in respect of tax losses, of $3.9 million and $3.5 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

F-110


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

9. INCOME TAXES: (Continued)

              The unrecognized tax benefits of $3.9 million and $3.5 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, would, if recognized, benefit the effective tax rate.

              The Company is currently under audit in certain jurisdictions and during the next twelve months, it is reasonably possible that resolution of these audits could result in no change. Audit outcomes and the timing of audit settlements are subject to significant uncertainty.

              The Company would be subject to taxation in the U.S., various states, and foreign jurisdictions. The Company's tax filings in its major jurisdictions are open to investigation by tax authorities; in the U.S. from 2010, in the U.K. from 2012 and in Germany from 2008.

10. OPERATING LEASE OBLIGATIONS:

              The following is a schedule of minimum future rentals under the terms of noncancelable operating leases as of December 31, 2013:

 
  ($ in millions)  

Years ended December 31:

       

2014

  $ 3.4  

2015

    2.8  

2016

    1.6  

2017

    1.1  

2018

    0.4  

Thereafter

    0.1  

Total

  $ 9.4  

              Rent expense under all operating leases was $15.8 million and $10.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. Rent escalations and other lease concessions are reflected on a straight-line basis over the minimum lease term. Minimum future rentals include the effect of any index or rate that was applicable at lease inception.

11. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION:

              Rockwood sponsors stock-incentive plans in which certain employees of the Company participate. As the stock-based compensation plans are Rockwood plans, amounts have been recognized through Parent company equity on the combined balance sheets. In April 2009, Rockwood adopted the 2009 Stock Incentive Plan (the "Plan"; together with the previous plans, the "Plans"), which has 11,000,000 authorized shares. All equity awards granted after this date are being awarded under the Plan.

              The aggregate compensation cost for stock options and restricted stock units, as discussed below, was $2.2 million for each of the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The stock-based compensation expense relates to the fair value of awards associated with employees of the Company.

F-111


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION: (Continued)

              Restricted Stock Units —In December 2012, Rockwood awarded market-based and performance-based restricted stock units to its management and key employees as long as the employee continues to be employed by the Company on the vesting date and upon the achievement of certain performance targets approved by Rockwood's Compensation Committee. The terms of the awards are as follows:

Award Date
  Number of
Awards
  Vesting Date   Market Performance Period (a)

December 2012

    63,071   January 1, 2016   January 1, 2013 to December 31, 2015

              There were no restricted stock units awarded to employees of the Company in 2013.

              For each award date, the market-based restricted stock units vest based on the percentage change in the price of the Company's stock over the market performance period and the performance-based restricted stock units vest based upon the Company's total shareholder return as compared to the total shareholder return for the DOW Jones U.S. Chemical Index over the market performance period.

              The Company specified a "target amount" of market-based restricted stock units and performance-based restricted stock units, whereby if the specified performance target is met, shares of the Company's common stock would be awarded upon vesting of these units. However, these awards provide the employee with the possibility of earning from 0% to 150% of the targeted amounts granted based upon performance.

              The Company began recognizing compensation expense for the restricted stock units awarded in December 2012 in January of 2013 because the performance targets that formed the basis for vesting of these awards were not available as of December 31, 2012. The fair value of these market-based restricted stock units was estimated on the date of grant using the Monte Carlo simulation model as they are tied to market conditions. The model utilizes multiple input variables that determine the probability of satisfying each market condition stipulated in the grant and calculates the fair value for the awards.

              The fair value of market-based restricted stock units awarded in the year ended December 31, 2012 used the assumptions noted in the following table:

 
  2012  

Expected volatility

    43 %

Risk-free rate

    0.4 %

              The compensation cost related to restricted stock units of the Company caused income from continuing operations before taxes to decrease by $2.1 million for both the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012. The total tax benefit recognized related to restricted stock was $0.7 million and $0.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively. The weighted average grant date fair value of the restricted shares granted in 2012 was $50.12 per stock unit. The total fair value of shares vested during the year ended December 31, 2012 was $1.9 million. As of December 31, 2013, there was $2.6 million of unrecognized compensation cost related to restricted stock units, which is expected to be recognized over a weighted-average period of approximately 1.8 years. The total tax benefit realized from restricted stock units vesting was $0.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2012. No restricted stock units vested in 2013.

F-112


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

11. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION: (Continued)

              A summary of the status of nonvested restricted stock units granted to employees of the Company pursuant to the Plan at December 31, 2013 and 2012 and changes during the year ended December 31, 2013 is presented below:

 
  Shares   Weighted Average
Fair Value
 
 
  ('000)
 

Nonvested at December 31, 2012

    154   $ 50.42  

Cancelled

    (10 )   50.45  

Nonvested at December 31, 2013

    144   $ 50.42  

              Stock Options —Stock options granted to employees under the Plans shall have an exercise price at least equal to the fair market value of the Company's common stock on the date of grant. The Company did not grant any stock options to employees in 2013 and 2012.

              Stock options granted in 2004 or prior years have a life of ten years from the date of grant and are fully vested. Stock options granted after 2004 typically have a life of seven years and vest in three equal annual installments on each of the first three anniversaries of December 31 of the year granted.

              The total intrinsic value of stock options exercised during the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 was $4.7 million and $2.4 million, respectively. Cash received from option exercises during 2013 and 2012 was $2.3 million and $1.1 million, respectively. The total tax benefit realized from options exercised was $1.3 million and $0.2 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

              A summary of the status of the Company's options granted pursuant to the Plan at December 31, 2013 and 2012 and changes during the year ended December 31, 2013 is presented below:

 
  Options   Weighted Average
Exercise
Price
  Weighted Average
Remaining
Contractual
Term
  Aggregate
Intrinsic
Value
 
 
  ('000)
   
  (years)
  ($ in millions)
 

Outstanding at December 31, 2012

    171   $ 20.84              

Exercised

    (113 )   20.18              

Outstanding at December 31, 2013

    58   $ 22.13     1.7   $ 2.9  

              All outstanding options are fully vested as of December 31, 2012.

F-113


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:

              The Company maintains various defined benefit pension plans, which cover certain employees in the U.S., Germany, Finland and other countries. In Germany, plan obligations include the provision of postretirement benefits covering private health insurance premiums. One U.S. subsidiary provides certain retirees with healthcare and life insurance.

              Funding requirements and investment policies for the Company's various defined benefit plans are governed by local statutes and fiduciary standards outlined below.

F-114


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS: (Continued)

              The following tables summarize the benefit obligations, plan assets and the funded status of the pension plans, along with the amounts recognized in the combined balance sheets and the weighted average assumptions used.

 
  Pension Benefits  
 
  U.S. Plans   Non-U.S. Plans  
 
  2013   2012   2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Change in benefit obligation:

                         

Benefit obligation at beginning of year

  $ 8.9   $ 7.6   $ 341.3   $ 273.8  

Service cost

    0.3     0.2     6.2     5.0  

Interest cost

    0.3     0.3     10.1     11.8  

Actuarial loss

    (0.9 )   0.6     (33.2 )   56.2  

Benefits paid

    (0.3 )   (0.2 )   (15.2 )   (14.8 )

Plan changes

        0.4          

Acquisitions

                2.9  

Foreign exchange loss

            13.1     6.5  

Other

            (0.1 )   (0.1 )

Benefit obligation at end of year

  $ 8.3   $ 8.9   $ 322.2   $ 341.3  

Change in fair value of plan assets:

                         

Fair value of plan assets at beginning of year

  $ 5.5   $ 4.7   $ 122.2   $ 117.3  

Actual return on assets

    0.6     0.6     5.0     12.5  

Employer contributions

    0.4     0.4     1.3     1.9  

Benefits paid from fund

    (0.3 )   (0.2 )   (11.6 )   (11.6 )

Foreign exchange gain

            4.9     2.2  

Other

            (0.2 )   (0.1 )

Fair value of plan assets at end of year

  $ 6.2   $ 5.5   $ 121.6   $ 122.2  

Funded status(a)(b)

  $ (2.1 ) $ (3.4 ) $ (200.6 ) $ (219.1 )

Amounts recognized in the consolidated balance sheets:

                         

Current liabilities

  $   $   $ (0.8 ) $ (1.0 )

Noncurrent liabilities(b)

    (2.1 )   (3.4 )   (199.8 )   (218.1 )

Net amount recognized

  $ (2.1 ) $ (3.4 ) $ (200.6 ) $ (219.1 )

Amounts recognized in accumulated other comprehensive income:

                         

Net actuarial losses

  $ 0.9   $ 2.7   $ 60.0   $ 98.6  

Prior service cost

    0.1     0.3     0.2     0.2  

Accumulated other comprehensive loss

  $ 1.0   $ 3.0   $ 60.2   $ 98.8  

Accumulated benefit obligation

  $ 8.3   $ 8.9   $ 307.2   $ 319.3  

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine benefit obligations at December 31:

                         

Discount rate

    4.57 %   3.67 %   3.51 %   3.25 %

Rate of compensation increase

    N/A     N/A     3.00 %   3.03 %

(a)
The Company's overall unfunded position in our defined benefit plans as of December 31, 2013 is $202.7 million and the funded status of our plans is 39%. However, 60% of our unfunded position is concentrated in plans mostly in Germany, where funding is neither legally required nor customary. When only the plans that have funding requirements are considered, the unfunded portion is $81.8 million and the funded status is 59%. The funding of our pension plans was in compliance with local requirements as of December 31, 2013.

(b)
Balances include $0.5 million and $1.4 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to certain German defined benefit obligations which are reported as "Other Liabilities" in the combined balance sheets. Balances do not include $2.7 million and $3.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, representing postretirement medical benefit plans which are reported within "Pension and Related Liabilities" in the combined balance sheets.

F-115


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS: (Continued)

 
  U.S. Plans   Non-U.S.
Plans
 
 
  2013   2012   2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Weighted-average assumptions used to determine net periodic benefit cost for years ended December 31:

                         

Discount rate

    3.67 %   4.17 %   3.25 %   4.49 %

Expected return on plan assets(a)

    5.75 %   6.50 %   5.36 %   6.18 %

Rate of compensation increase

    N/A     N/A     3.03 %   3.05 %

Components of net pension benefit costs:

                         

Service cost

  $ 0.3   $ 0.2   $ 6.2   $ 5.0  

Interest cost

    0.3     0.3     10.1     11.8  

Expected return on assets

    (0.3 )   (0.3 )   (5.3 )   (6.3 )

Net amortization of actuarial losses

    0.5     0.5     8.6     2.0  

Amortization of prior service cost

    0.2     0.2          

Total pension cost

  $ 1.0   $ 0.9   $ 19.6   $ 12.5  

(a)
The long-term rate of return on assets listed above is the average of expected returns developed for each plan weighted by each plan's assets, as of January 1 of the year measured. Rates of return have been estimated based on various asset-appropriate price and yield indices, adjusted for projected inflation and long-term dividend growth.

              The following benefit payments, which reflect expected future service, as appropriate, are expected to be paid:

 
  U.S. Plans   Non-U.S. Plans  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

2014

  $ 0.3   $ 16.1  

2015

    0.5     15.7  

2016

    0.5     16.5  

2017

    0.5     16.7  

2018

    0.5     17.0  

Years 2019 - 2023

    2.6     86.9  

Expected employer contributions to plan assets:

             

2014

  $ 0.4   $ 1.3  

              Recognition of actuarial losses —In 2014, the Company expects to recognize $4.3 million of previously unrecognized actuarial losses.

              Other postretirement benefits —The Company had liabilities of $2.7 million and $3.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, related to other postretirement benefit plans reported as "Pension and Related Liabilities" in the combined balance sheets. Related plan expenses were $0.2 million and $0.1 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively.

F-116


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS: (Continued)

              Plans with accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets —Substantially all of the Company's defined benefit plans all had accumulated benefit obligations in excess of plan assets.

              Plans with projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets —The Company's defined benefit plans all had projected benefit obligations in excess of plan assets.

              Contributions —During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company made contributions of approximately $1.7 million to its defined benefit pension trusts and an additional $3.6 million in benefit payments directly to plan participants. For 2014, the Company expects to make payments of approximately $1.7 million as contributions to pension trusts plus benefit payments directly to plan participants of approximately $4.0 million.

              Investment policies and strategies —The Company's plans have varying statutory and plan governance requirements. For example, U.S. plan investments are generally limited to mutual funds. Although the Company has representatives of local management involved in the governance of all plans, some plans or statutes also have representation by workers, employee unions, and/or corporate-level executives.

              Plans in Finland and the U.S. represent approximately 90% of total plan assets. In these countries, the general investment objectives are to maximize the expected return on the plans' assets without unduly prejudicing the security of the members' accrued benefits and with sufficient liquidity to meet current plan cash flow requirements. As each plan is locally governed, asset allocations may vary between plans. Most plans do not have fixed targets but vary their investment allocations based on plan trustees' consultation with professional investment advisors as to whether these allocations remain appropriate in light of relative investment performance and risk and/or actuarial changes related to plan participants. The following table presents the weighted-average of the plans' targeted investment allocations in 2013 as well as the actual weighted-average investment allocations as of December 31, 2013 and 2012:

 
  U.S. Plans   Non-U.S. Plans  
 
  Target   2013   2012   Target   2013   2012  

Cash and cash equivalents

    5 %   1 %   1 %   8 %   12 %   1 %

Equity securities

    40     49     45     11     14     34  

Fixed income

    55     50     54     67     61     55  

Insurance contracts, real estate and other

                14     13     10  

              The following table presents the Company's plan assets using the fair value hierarchy as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. See Note 4, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements," for descriptions of the Company's fair value hierarchy levels. The Company does not have any employee benefit plan assets that are classified as Level 3 inputs as of December 31, 2013 and 2012. The

F-117


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS: (Continued)

Company has not been informed by its investment managers of any changes in valuation techniques or inputs during the periods presented.

 
  Fair Value Measurements  
 
  As of December 31, 2013   As of December 31, 2012  
 
  Total   Level 1   Level 2   Total   Level 1   Level 2  
 
  (in millions)
 

Cash and cash equivalents

  $ 14.7   $ 13.3   $ 1.4   $ 2.6   $ 2.5   $ 0.1  

Equity securities:

                                     

Domestic large-cap growth(a)(b)

    2.7         2.7     4.1         4.1  

International large-cap growth(a)

    3.5     0.5     3.0     3.9     0.4     3.5  

Other equity funds

    13.8     2.6     11.2     15.3     2.0     13.3  

Fixed income securities:

                                     

Domestic government bonds(a)(b)

    3.6         3.6     3.8         3.8  

International government bonds(a)

    5.7         5.7     3.6         3.6  

Corporate bonds(a)

    44.4         44.4     50.5         50.5  

Plan sponsor

                10.1         10.1  

Other bond funds

    3.9     3.0     0.9     4.0     3.0     1.0  

Other

    19.0         19.0     14.5         14.5  

Other investments:

                                     

Insurance contracts

    0.7         0.7     0.5         0.5  

Real estate investment funds

    10.0         10.0     9.8         9.8  

Other

    5.8         5.8     5.0         5.0  

Total

  $ 127.8   $ 19.4   $ 108.4   $ 127.7   $ 7.9   $ 119.8  

(a)
Represents a direct investment or mutual pooled fund.

(b)
"Domestic" refers to investments in the plan's home country. Most plan assets are located in Finland, the U.S. or Germany.

Level 1

              Direct investments in publicly traded equity and debt securities are valued at quoted market prices. Similarly, mutual funds are public investment vehicles valued at quoted market prices, which represent the net asset value ("NAV") of the shares held.

Level 2

              Most of the Company's Level 2 investments are funds valued at NAV provided by investment managers. Investments that do not meet the criteria for Level 1, but are redeemable at NAV within 90 days of the measurement date are classified as Level 2. Investments with longer time horizons for redemption are evaluated individually based on specific facts and circumstances with the rebuttable presumption that such investments should be classified as Level 3.

F-118


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS: (Continued)

              Direct investments in corporate and government bonds that are not actively traded are based on institutional bid evaluations using proprietary models that are derived from observable inputs. Commingled and proprietary funds are valued at unit or net asset values provided by investment managers, which are based on the fair value of the underlying investments utilizing public information, independent external valuation from third-party services, third-party advisors, or standard bond or other investment valuation models. Insurance contracts are valued as reported by the issuer, typically either using cash surrender value, and the amount a plan would receive if a contract was cashed out at year end, or based on the present value of the expected future cash flows. Participations in real estate funds are valued at net asset value as determined by the fund manager using directly and indirectly observable inputs including comparable asset values and lease-rental cash flows. The plan sponsor loan is valued at its principal amount, consistent with its valuation in the Company's combined financial statements.

Other Retirement Benefit Plans

              Savings Plans —The Company sponsors various defined contribution plans for certain employees. Contributions under the plans are based on specified percentages of employee compensation. In aggregate, the Company's contributions to these plans were $3.4 million and $3.6 million in 2013 and 2012, respectively.

              Multiemployer Plans —During 2013 and 2012, the Company participated in three multiemployer plans. Two of these plans were located in Germany and one in the U.S. The risks of participating in these multiemployer plans are different from single-employer plans in the following aspects:

    Assets contributed to the multiemployer plan by one employer may be used to provide benefits to employees of other participating employers.

    If a participating employer stops contributing to the plan, the unfunded obligation of the plan may be borne by remaining participating employers.

    If the Company chooses to stop participating in a U.S. multiemployer plan, the Company may be required to pay those plans an amount based on the underfunded status of the plan, referred to as a "withdrawal liability."

              The Company's contribution to these plans is outlined in the table below:

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
Pension Fund
  2013   2012  

Pensionskasse Dynamit Nobel Versicherungsverein auf Gegenseitigkeit, Troisdorf ("DN Pensionskasse")

  $ 2.2   $ 2.2  

Bayer-Pensionskasse Versicherungsverein auf Gegenseitigkeit, Leverkusen ("Bayer Pensionskasse")

    1.7     0.8  

U.S. Plans

    0.1     0.1  

Total

  $ 4.0   $ 3.1  

F-119


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS: (Continued)

DN Pensionskasse

              The Company's contributions to the DN Pensionskasse represented approximately 55% of the Company's total multiemployer contributions in 2013 (see table above) and represented approximately 15% of the total contributions received by the DN Pensionskasse in the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012 (other Rockwood affiliates represented approximately 20% of the total contributions received by the DN Pensionskasse).

              The DN Pensionskasse provides monthly payments in the case of disability, death or retirement. Additional information of the DN Pensionskasse is available in the public domain. Some participants in the plan are subject to collective bargaining arrangements, which have no fixed expiration date. The contribution and benefit levels are neither negotiated nor significantly influenced by these collective bargaining arrangements nor are benefit levels generally subject to reduction.

              The DN Pensionskasse rules require that contributions are set by its Board to comply with the applicable German insurance law. This law requires that such plans be fully funded at all times. The DN Pensionskasse was fully funded as of December 31, 2012, the date the most recent information is publicly available. This funding level would correspond to the highest funding zone status (at least 80% funded) under U.S. pension regulation.

              The DN Pensionskasse plan is subject to a financial improvement plan ("FIP") which expires in at the end of 2014. The FIP calls for increased capital reserves to avoid future underfunding risk. In 2012, the Company's contribution included a one-time payment of €0.1 million ($0.1 million) to ensure that the solvency requirements agreed upon in the FIP were met at the end of year end. In 2013, Rockwood provided a guarantee of €4.7 million ($6.5 million) to meet these solvency requirements based on a December 31, 2013 measurement date.

              The majority of the Company's contributions are tied to employees' contributions, which are generally calculated as a percentage of base compensation, up to a certain statutory ceiling. Until the end of 2014 (end of the FIP), the Company will pay at least three times the employees' contributions for longer-term employees. However, for employees starting after December 1, 2007, the Company's contributions equal the employee contributions.

              Since the plan liabilities need to be fully funded at all times according to local funding requirements, it is unlikely that the DN Pensionskasse plan will fail to fulfill its obligations, however, in such an event, the Company is liable for the benefits of its employees who participate in the plan.

Bayer Pensionskasse

              The Company's contributions to the Bayer Pensionskasse represented approximately 43% of the Company's total multiemployer contributions in 2013 (see table above). In 2012, the Company only participated in this plan from July to December 2012 as a result of an acquisition.

              The Bayer Pensionskasse provides monthly payments in the case of disability, death or retirement. Additional information of the Bayer Pensionskasse is available in the public domain. As of the date of the most recent publically available information, December 31, 2012, the Bayer Pensionskasse was more than 80% funded. The Bayer Pensionskasse plan is not subject to a financial improvement plan and no surcharge has been imposed.

F-120


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

12. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS: (Continued)

              Company contributions are tied to employees' contributions, which are generally calculated as a percentage of base compensation, up to a certain statutory ceiling. Currently, the Company pays at four times the employees' contributions, but the contribution level can increase or decrease in the future.

              Since the plan is under strict supervision from the German authorities, it is unlikely that the Bayer Pensionskasse plan will fail to fulfill its obligations, however, in such an event, the Company is liable for the benefits of its employees who participate in the plan.

13. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER SEVERANCE COSTS:

              The Company records restructuring liabilities that represent charges incurred in connection with consolidations and cessations of certain of its operations, including operations from acquisitions, as well as headcount reduction programs. These charges consist primarily of severance and facility/entity closure costs. Severance charges are based on various factors including the employee's length of service, contract provisions, salary levels and local governmental legislation. At the time a related charge is recorded, the Company calculates its best estimate based upon detailed analysis. Although significant changes are not expected, actual costs may differ from these estimates.

              The following table provides the restructuring and other severance costs for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Severance/Relocation

  $ 1.0   $ 4.5  

Facility closure and other

    0.9     1.6  

Asset write-downs

        0.6  

Restructuring charge

    1.9     6.7  

Other severance costs

    0.3     1.2  

Total

  $ 2.2   $ 7.9  

              For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the restructuring charges primarily relate to severance and facility closure costs in connection with the future consolidation of the Color Pigments and Services business and severance costs in the Titanium Dioxide Pigments business.

              All restructuring actions still in progress as of December 31, 2013 are expected to be substantially complete within the next twelve months, except for severance and facility closure costs in connection with the future consolidation of the Color Pigments and Services business. However, payouts of certain liabilities resulting from these actions will take place over several years. There are no

F-121


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

13. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER SEVERANCE COSTS: (Continued)

significant future costs related to open restructuring plans remaining. Selected information for outstanding liabilities from recent restructuring actions is as follows:

 
  Severance/
Relocation
  Facility Closure
and Other
  Total  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Liability balance, December 31, 2011

  $ 0.7   $ 0.1   $ 0.8  

Restructuring charge in 2012

    4.5     2.2     6.7  

Utilized

    (1.1 )   (1.6 )   (2.7 )

Other

    (0.5 )   (0.6 )   (1.1 )

Liability balance, December 31, 2012

    3.6     0.1     3.7  

Restructuring charge in 2013

    1.0     0.9     1.9  

Utilized

    (2.6 )   (0.9 )   (3.5 )

Other

    (0.2 )   0.3     0.1  

Liability balance, December 31, 2013

  $ 1.8   $ 0.4   $ 2.2  

14. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):

              Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

 
  Pension related
adjustments, net of
tax(a)
  Foreign currency
translation(b)
  Total accumulated
other comprehensive
income (loss)
 
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Balance at December 31, 2011

  $ (23.5 ) $ 15.1   $ (8.4 )

Period change

    (23.6 )   5.6     (18.0 )

Balance at December 31, 2012

    (47.1 )   20.7     (26.4 )

Other comprehensive loss before reclassifications

    24.2     47.8     72.0  

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive loss to net income

    6.6         6.6  

Amounts reclassified from noncontrolling interest to accumulated other comprehensive loss(c)

    (27.4 )       (27.4 )

Balance at December 31, 2013

  $ (43.7 ) $ 68.5   $ 24.8  

(a)
The tax effect on the pension related adjustments is an (expense) benefit of $(0.1) million and $9.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively.

(b)
The foreign currency translation adjustments are not adjusted for income taxes in accordance with the indefinite reversal criteria.

(c)
This represents the amount of accumulated other comprehensive loss reclassified as a result of the Company's purchase of Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide Venture in February 2013.

F-122


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

14. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS): (Continued)

              The amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) into net income are as follows:

 
  Amount Reclassified from
Accumulated Other
Comprehensive Loss
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Components
  Year ended December 31, 2013  

Pension related adjustments:

       

Actuarial losses(a)

  $ (9.1 )

Prior service costs(a)

    (0.2 )

    (9.3 )

Income tax provision

    2.7  

Total reclassifications for the period

  $ (6.6 )

(a)
These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension costs that are recorded in costs of products sold and selling, general and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

15. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES:

              Legal Proceedings —The Company is involved in various legal proceedings, including commercial, intellectual property, product liability, regulatory and environmental matters of a nature considered normal for its business. The Company accrues for amounts related to these matters if it is probable that a liability has been incurred and an amount can be reasonably estimated. The Company discloses such matters when there is at least a reasonable possibility that a material loss may have been incurred. However, the Company cannot predict the ultimate outcome of any litigation or the potential for future litigation.

Inspector General Subpoena

              In February 2010, a subsidiary of the Company received a subpoena from the Inspector General of the Department of Defense ("DOD") seeking information related to a product in the Timber Treatment Chemicals business in the Performance Additives segment. In June 2012, the United States government filed a notice of election indicating that it would not intervene at that time and the court ordered the complaint to be unsealed. The complaint was served on the Company in November 2012 by Osmose, Inc. ("Osmose"), a competitor of our Timber Treatment business, and alleges that our subsidiary misrepresented properties of certain fire retardants in relation to a military specification for such products. In March 2013, Osmose filed an amended complaint. In May 2013, the Company's subsidiary filed a motion to dismiss the action. In January 2014, the United States District Court for the Western District of New York granted the Company's motion and dismissed all claims with prejudice. Osmose did not appeal this matter.

F-123


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

Other Matters

              Although the Company expects to continue to pay legal fees in connection with the above matters, other legal actions, such as chromated copper arsenate, and other product liability matters, such as certain high purity color pigments, based on currently available facts, the Company does not believe that any individual action will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Reserves in connection with known product liability matters equaled $0.5 million as of December 31, 2013. The Company's reserve estimates are based on available facts, including damage claims and input from its internal and external legal counsel, past experience, and, in some instances where defense costs are being paid by its insurer, known or expected insurance recoveries. The Company is unable to estimate the amount or range of any potential incremental charges should facts and circumstances change and may in the future revise its estimates based on new information becoming available. Further, the Company cannot predict the outcome of any litigation or the potential for future litigation.

              Indemnity Matters —The Company is indemnified by third parties in connection with certain matters related to acquired businesses. Although the Company has no reason to believe that the financial condition of those parties who may have indemnification obligations to the Company is other than sound, in the event the Company seeks indemnity under any of these agreements or through other means, there can be no assurance that any party who may have obligations to indemnify the Company will adhere to their obligations and the Company may have to resort to legal action to enforce its rights under the indemnities. In cases where the Company's indemnification claims to such third parties are uncontested, the Company expects to realize recoveries within the short term.

              In the opinion of management, and based upon information currently available, the ultimate resolution of any indemnification obligations owed to the Company or by the Company is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

              Guarantees —The Company's U.S. Entities, along with certain other Rockwood Specialties Group, Inc. ("RSGI") U.S. subsidiaries, are guarantors of RSGI's obligation under the terms of the indenture related to the $1.25 billion of 4.625% senior notes due in 2020 ("Notes").

              Rockwood and the Company intend to obtain releases from these guarantees in connection with the divestiture of the Company.

              Certain of the Company's affiliated U.S. legal entities (the "Company's U.S. Entities") along with certain other U.S. subsidiaries of RSGI were guarantors of the obligations, under RSGI's senior secured credit facility which had outstanding borrowings of $924.2 million as of December 31, 2012. Pursuant to the terms of RSGI's senior secured credit facility, the lenders had a first-priority security interest in substantially all the Company's U.S. Entities' tangible and intangible assets, the book values of which were $245.5 million as of December 31, 2012. In addition, the shares representing substantially all of the capital stock of the Company's U.S. Entities were pledged as collateral for RSGI's indebtedness. However, in September 2013, RSGI prepaid all of its outstanding borrowings under the term loans under the senior secured credit facility and terminated all commitments under the senior secured credit agreement. As a result, all obligations were discharged, including those under the revolving credit commitments.

F-124


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

              The indenture governing the Notes contain various affirmative and restrictive covenants which limit the ability of RSGI and the Company, subject to certain exceptions, to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, make investments and other restricted payments, create liens, sell assets, engage in certain transactions with certain affiliates, and merge or consolidate with other companies or sell substantially all of our assets. In addition, RSGI is subject to further limitations on its ability to pay dividends or make other distributions (limited to $600 million, plus additional amounts subject to satisfying certain leverage ratios).

Safety, Health and Environmental Matters

General

              The Company is subject to extensive environmental, health and safety laws in the United States, the European Union ("EU") and elsewhere at the international, national, state, and local levels. Many of these laws impose requirements relating to clean up of contamination, and impose liability in the event of damage to human beings, natural resources or property, and provide for substantial fines, injunctions and potential criminal sanctions for violations. Other laws or contractual agreements require post-closure reclamation of landfills, surface mining sites and manufacturing facilities for damage resulting from normal operation of these locations. The products, including the raw materials handled, are also subject to industrial hygiene regulations and investigation. The nature of the Company's operations exposes it to risks of liability for breaches of these laws and regulations as a result of the production, storage, transportation and sale of materials that can cause contamination or personal injury when released into the environment. Environmental laws are subject to change and have tended to become stricter over time. Such changes in environmental laws, or the enactment of new environmental laws, could result in materially increased capital, operating and compliance costs.

Safety, Health and Environmental Management Systems

              The Company is committed to achieving and maintaining compliance with all applicable safety, health and environmental ("SHE") legal requirements. The Company's subsidiaries have developed policies and management systems that are intended to identify the SHE legal requirements applicable to their operations, enhance compliance with such requirements, ensure the safety of the Company's employees, contractors, community neighbors and customers and minimize the production and emission of wastes and other pollutants. Although SHE legal requirements are constantly changing, these SHE management systems are designed to assist the Company in meeting its compliance goals and minimizing risk.

SHE Capital Expenditures

              The Company will incur future costs for capital improvements and general compliance under SHE laws. For the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, the capital expenditures for SHE matters totaled $7.2 million and $8.9 million, respectively, excluding costs to maintain and repair pollution control equipment. For 2014, the Company estimates capital expenditures for compliance with SHE laws to be at similar levels as 2013; however, because capital expenditures for these matters are subject to changes in existing and new SHE laws, the Company cannot provide assurance that its recent expenditures will be indicative of future amounts required to comply with these laws.

F-125


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

Regulatory Developments

              Greenhouse gases have increasingly become the subject of international, national, state and local attention. On September 22, 2009, the Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") passed its final greenhouse gas monitoring and reporting rule that required certain facilities in the U.S. to record their greenhouse gases beginning January 1, 2010 and begin reporting these measurements on September 30, 2011. Currently, no facilities are required to report under this program. Based upon currently available information, the Company does not believe that this rule will have a material impact on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. However, further legislation of greenhouse gases and carbon dioxide has been proposed in the U.S. and other jurisdictions. Certain European facilities are subject to different carbon emission trading schemes imposed by local governments, e.g. U.K. and Germany. Any such laws may directly and indirectly have a material impact on its financial condition, results of operations and cash flows in any quarterly or annual reporting period, such as through higher costs for energy and certain raw materials and additional capital expenditures to comply with such laws.

              The Company is also subject to the Homeland Security Agency's regulations, which address chemical plant safety, the Kyoto Protocol, which relates to the emission of greenhouse gases and the European Union Integrated Pollution Prevention and Control Directive, which relates to environmental permitting programs for individual facilities. In addition, legislation was recently introduced in Congress seeking to reform the Toxic Control Substances Act, which among other things, would require manufacturers to develop and submit additional safety data for each chemical it produces, similar to the Registration, Evaluation, and Authorization of Chemicals ("REACH") legislation. Based upon currently available information, the Company does not believe that these regulations will have a material impact on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

Environmental Reserves

              Environmental laws have a significant effect on the nature and scope of any clean-up of contamination at current and former operating facilities, the costs of transportation and storage of chemicals and finished products and the costs of the storage and disposal of wastes.

              In addition, "Superfund" statutes in the United States as well as statutes in other jurisdictions impose strict, joint and several liability for clean-up costs on the entities that generated waste and/or arranged for its disposal at contaminated third party sites, as well as the past and present owners and operators of contaminated sites. All responsible parties may be required to bear some or all clean-up costs regardless of fault, legality of the original disposal or ownership of the disposal site.

F-126


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

              The following table provides a list of the Company's present and former facilities with environmental contamination or reclamation obligations for which the Company has reserved for at December 31, 2013:

Country
  Location   (a)   (b)   (c)

China

  Shenzhen       X    

Finland

  Kipsikorpi           X

Germany

  Duisburg   X       X

  Hainhausen   X        

  Schwarzheide           X

  Uerdingen   X        

Italy

  Turin   X        

United Kingdom

  Birtley       X    

United States

  Beltsville, MD   X        

  East St. Louis, IL       X    

  Easton, PA       X    

  Harrisburg, NC   X   X    

  Valdosta, GA   X        

(a)
The Company is currently operating groundwater monitoring and/or remediation systems at these locations.

(b)
The Company is currently conducting investigations into additional possible soil and/or groundwater contamination at these locations.

(c)
The Company has land restoration obligations generally relating to landfill activities at these locations.

              The Company is also responsible for environmental matters at some of its former off-site disposal locations owned by third parties. These sites are considered Superfund sites as defined by the EPA or state regulatory authority.

              Although the Company cannot provide assurances in this regard, the Company does not believe that these issues will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Nonetheless, the discovery of contamination arising from present or historical industrial operations at some of the Company's or its predecessor's former and present properties and/or at sites where the Company and its predecessor disposed wastes could expose the Company to cleanup obligations and other damages in the future.

              The Company has established financial reserves relating to anticipated environmental cleanup obligations, site reclamation and remediation and closure costs, which are reviewed at least quarterly based on currently available information. Liabilities are recorded when potential liabilities are either known or believed to be probable and can be reasonably estimated. In the event that the Company establishes a financial reserve in connection with site remediation costs, the Company records a reserve for the estimated cost of the remediation, even though the costs of the remediation will likely be spread out over many years. The Company does not include unasserted claims in its reserves.

F-127


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

              The Company's liability estimates are based upon available facts, existing technology, indemnities from third parties, past experience and, in some instances, insurance recoveries where the remediation costs are being paid by its insurers, and are generated by several means, including State-mandated schedules, environmental consultants and internal experts, depending on the circumstances. On a combined basis, the Company has accrued $24.5 million and $21.8 million for environmental liabilities as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, most of which were classified as other non-current liabilities in the combined balance sheets.

              Included in the environmental liabilities are reclamation obligations (see table below). These obligations primarily relate to post-closure reclamation of landfills and manufacturing sites. The following table represents the change in the Company's reclamation obligations for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012:

 
  Year ended
December 31,
 
 
  2013   2012  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Liability balance, January 1

  $ 7.7   $ 9.8  

Accretion

    0.5     0.3  

Utilization

    (0.4 )   (2.7 )

Revisions to estimates

        0.2  

Foreign exchange

    0.3     0.1  

Liability balance, December 31

  $ 8.1   $ 7.7  

              The remaining environmental liabilities ($16.4 million and $14.1 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively), represent remediation obligations. Of these accruals, $6.6 million and $6.7 million as of December 31, 2013 and 2012, respectively, represent liabilities discounted using discount rates ranging from 5.5% to 7.0%, with the undiscounted amount of these reserves being $9.7 million for both periods.

              The Company's remediation liabilities are payable over periods of up to 30 years. At a number of the sites described above, the extent of contamination has not yet been fully investigated or the final scope of remediation is not yet determinable and could potentially affect the range. The Company estimates that the potential range for such environmental matters as of December 31, 2013 is from $16.4 million to $32.4 million. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company recorded charges of $3.0 million to increase its environmental liabilities and made payments of $1.5 million for reclamation and remediation costs, which reduced its environmental liabilities. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the recurring cost of managing hazardous substances for ongoing operations is $36.5 million.

              The Company believes these accruals are adequate based on currently available information. The Company may incur losses in excess of the amounts accrued; however, based on currently available information, it does not believe the additional amount of potential losses would have a material adverse effect on its business or financial condition, but may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or cash flows in any given quarterly or annual reporting period. The Company does not believe that any known individual environmental matter would have a material adverse effect on its

F-128


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

NOTES TO COMBINED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Continued)

15. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. The Company is unable to estimate the amount or range of any potential incremental charges should facts and circumstances change and may in the future revise its estimates based on new information becoming available.

              In the event that manufacturing operations are discontinued at any of the Company's facilities with known contamination, regulatory authorities may impose more stringent requirements on the Company including soil remediation. The Company does not contemplate any such action occurring in the foreseeable future, as these facilities' remaining lives are not known. Given the indeterminate useful life of these facilities and the corresponding indeterminate settlement date of any soil remediation obligations, the Company does not have sufficient information to estimate a range of potential settlement dates for its obligations. Consequently, the Company cannot employ a present value technique to estimate fair value and, accordingly, has not accrued for any environmental-related costs to remediate soil at these facilities.

Commitments

              As of December 31, 2013, the Company has unconditional purchase obligations of $1,110.5 million primarily consisting of take-or-pay contracts to purchase goods and energy that are enforceable and legally binding and that specify all significant terms, including: fixed or minimum quantities to be purchased; fixed, minimum or variable price provisions; and the approximate timing of the transaction. These purchase obligations are expected to be incurred as follows: $467.7 million in less than one year, $527.5 million in one-three years, $78.5 million in three-five years and $36.9 million after five years.

16. ACQUISITION:

              In July 2012, our Titanium Dioxide Venture completed the acquisition of certain business assets, primarily inventory and other production assets, of crenox GmbH, a German titanium dioxide producer based in Krefeld, Germany, from the insolvency administrator for €56 million ($69 million using the rate in effect on the transaction date). The allocation of the purchase price to the identifiable assets acquired was complete as of December 31, 2012.

*    *    *

F-129


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  Nine months ended
September 30,
 
 
  2014   2013  

Net sales

  $ 1,230.2   $ 1,237.6  

Cost of products sold

    1,059.2     1,133.1  

Gross profit

    171.0     104.5  

Selling, general and administrative expenses

    146.3     132.1  

Restructuring and other severance costs

    0.2     2.1  

Operating income (loss)

    24.5     (29.7 )

Other income (expenses), net:

             

Interest income (expense), net

    2.2     (6.0 )

Loss on early extinguishment/modification of debt

        (17.2 )

Other, net

    0.1     (0.4 )

Other income (expenses), net

    2.3     (23.6 )

Income (loss) before taxes

    26.8     (53.3 )

Income tax provision (benefit)

    11.9     (8.7 )

Net income (loss)

    14.9     (44.6 )

Net (income) loss attributable to noncontrolling interest

    (2.4 )   0.6  

Net income (loss) attributable to Parent company equity

  $ 12.5   $ (44.0 )

   

See accompanying notes to condensed combined financial statements.

F-130


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  Nine months
ended
September 30,
 
 
  2014   2013  

Net income (loss)

  $ 14.9   $ (44.6 )

Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax:

             

Pension related adjustments

    5.9     4.2  

Foreign currency translation

    (78.1 )   31.5  

Other comprehensive (loss) income

    (72.2 )   35.7  

Comprehensive loss

    (57.3 )   (8.9 )

Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interest

    (2.4 )   (0.9 )

Comprehensive loss attributable to Parent company equity

  $ (59.7 ) $ (9.8 )

   

See accompanying notes to condensed combined financial statements.

F-131


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  September 30,
2014
  December 31,
2013
 

ASSETS

             

Current assets:

             

Cash

  $ 87.2   $ 15.1  

Accounts receivable, net

    210.0     201.6  

Inventories

    424.1     420.4  

Deferred income taxes

    1.2     2.7  

Prepaid expenses and other current assets

    31.9     41.7  

Total current assets

    754.4     681.5  

Property, plant and equipment, net

    764.6     763.6  

Intangible assets, net

    171.5     200.6  

Deferred income taxes

    61.8     63.0  

Other assets

    8.6     9.6  

Total assets

  $ 1,760.9   $ 1,718.3  

LIABILITIES

             

Current liabilities:

             

Accounts payable

  $ 146.2   $ 170.6  

Income taxes payable

    4.0     1.8  

Accrued compensation

    33.3     26.8  

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities

    40.2     40.9  

Deferred income taxes

    3.2     1.0  

Long-term debt, current portion

    0.2     3.2  

Total current liabilities

    227.1     244.3  

Long-term debt

    3.1     5.3  

Pension and related liabilities

    192.8     204.1  

Deferred income taxes

    8.6     11.9  

Other liabilities

    28.2     29.1  

Total liabilities

    459.8     494.7  

Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees—See Note 13

             

EQUITY

             

Parent company equity:

             

Parent company investment

    1,198.3     1,045.8  

Accumulated other comprehensive income

    (47.4 )   24.8  

Total Parent company equity

    1,150.9     1,070.6  

Noncontrolling interest

    150.2     153.0  

Total equity

    1,301.1     1,223.6  

Total liabilities and equity

  $ 1,760.9   $ 1,718.3  

   

See accompanying notes to condensed combined financial statements.

F-132


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
  Nine months ended
September 30,
 
 
  2014   2013  

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

             

Net income (loss)

  $ 14.9   $ (44.6 )

Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities:

             

Depreciation and amortization

    98.2     92.2  

Deferred financing costs amortization

        1.3  

Loss on early extinguishment/modification of debt

        17.2  

Stock-based compensation

    1.0     1.8  

Deferred income taxes

    0.2     (12.0 )

Other, net

    0.6     (0.5 )

Changes in assets and liabilities, net of the effect of foreign currency translation and acquisitions:

             

Accounts receivable

    (23.7 )   (45.7 )

Inventories

    (32.1 )   73.6  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    8.3     (7.9 )

Accounts payable

    (15.8 )   3.3  

Income taxes payable

    (0.2 )   (15.7 )

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

    17.6     1.2  

Net cash provided by operating activities

    69.0     64.2  

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

             

Capital expenditures

    (126.2 )   (80.5 )

Proceeds on sale of assets

    2.2     0.1  

Net cash used in investing activities

    (124.0 )   (80.4 )

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

             

Change in Parent company investment

    138.4     521.1  

Payments of long-term debt

    (4.9 )   (513.9 )

Proceeds from long-term debt

    0.1     6.0  

Fees related to early extinguishment/modification of debt

        (0.2 )

Dividend distributions to noncontrolling shareholders

    (5.2 )   (2.1 )

Net cash provided by financing activities

    128.4     10.9  

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

    (1.3 )    

Net increase (decrease) in cash

    72.1     (5.3 )

Cash, beginning of period

    15.1     27.0  

Cash, end of period

  $ 87.2   $ 21.7  

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:

             

Interest paid

  $ 0.6   $ 7.0  

Income taxes paid, net of refunds

    12.0     19.0  

Non-cash investing activities:

             

Acquisition of capital equipment included in accounts payable

    21.8     25.6  

Non-cash financing activities:

             

Purchase of noncontrolling interest

        138.5  

   

See accompanying notes to condensed combined financial statements.

F-133


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN PARENT COMPANY EQUITY

(Dollars in millions)

(Unaudited)

 
   
  Parent Company Equity    
 
 
  Total   Parent Company
Investment
  Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income (Loss)
  Noncontrolling
Interest
 

Balance, January 1, 2014

  $ 1,223.6   $ 1,045.8   $ 24.8   $ 153.0  

Dividend distribution to noncontrolling shareholder

    (5.2 )           (5.2 )

Other comprehensive loss, net of tax

    (72.2 )       (72.2 )    

Net income

    14.9     12.5         2.4  

Net transfers from Parent

    140.0     140.0          

Balance, September 30, 2014

  $ 1,301.1   $ 1,198.3   $ (47.4 ) $ 150.2  

Balance, January 1, 2013

  $ 682.3   $ 440.6   $ (26.4 ) $ 268.1  

Dividend distribution to noncontrolling shareholder

    (2.1 )           (2.1 )

Purchase of noncontrolling interest

        138.5     (27.4 )   (111.1 )

Other comprehensive income, net of tax

    35.7         34.2     1.5  

Net loss

    (44.6 )   (44.0 )       (0.6 )

Net transfers from Parent

    523.8     523.8          

Balance, September 30, 2013

  $ 1,195.1   $ 1,058.9   $ (19.6 ) $ 155.8  

   

See accompanying notes to condensed combined financial statements.

F-134


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS:

              Organization —The unaudited condensed combined financial statements include the accounts of several of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. ("Rockwood" or "Parent") businesses, comprised of Titanium Dioxide Pigments, Color Pigments and Services, Timber Treatment Chemicals, Rubber/Thermoplastics Compounding and Water Chemistry businesses ("Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other"), as one condensed combined company (the "Company").

              In September 2013, Rockwood announced that it entered into a definitive agreement to sell certain of its Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other businesses to Huntsman Corporation. The businesses subject to the purchase and sale agreement constitute substantially all of the Company's assets and liabilities and substantially all of the Company's operations. On October 1, 2014, Rockwood completed the sale of its Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other businesses to Huntsman Corporation. See Note 14, "Subsequent Events," for further details.

              Basis of Presentation —The unaudited condensed combined financial statements reflect the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Company as Rockwood was historically managing it, prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America ("U.S. GAAP") for interim reporting, and have been derived from the consolidated financial statements and accounting records of Rockwood, principally from statements and records represented in the businesses described above. Under those rules, certain footnotes and other financial information that are normally required for annual financial statements can be condensed or omitted. The Company is responsible for these condensed combined financial statements, which include all normal and recurring adjustments that are, in the opinion of management, necessary for a fair presentation of the financial position as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and the results of operations, comprehensive income (loss), cash flows and changes in parent company equity for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013. Material subsequent events are evaluated through January 12, 2015, the date the condensed combined financial statements were available to be issued, and disclosed where applicable. These unaudited condensed combined financial statements and the related notes should be read in conjunction with the audited combined financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013. Revenues, expenses, assets and liabilities can vary during each interim period of the year. Accordingly, the results and trends in these unaudited condensed combined financial statements may not be indicative of the full year results.

              The preparation of financial statements and related disclosures in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and revenue and expenses during the periods reported. These estimates include, among other things, assessing the collectability of accounts receivable, the use and recoverability of inventory, the valuation of deferred tax assets, the measurement of the accrual for uncertain tax benefits, impairment of property, plant and equipment and other intangible assets, the accrual of environmental and legal reserves, the useful lives of tangible and intangible assets and the measurement of pension obligations, among others. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Such estimates also include the fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed as a result of allocations of the purchase price of business combinations consummated.

              All revenue, assets and liabilities and most expenses reflected in the condensed combined financial statements are directly associated with the Company. In addition, certain general corporate

F-135


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS: (Continued)

overhead expenses have been allocated by Rockwood to the Company. The Company used certain underlying activity drivers as a basis of allocation, including net sales and headcount. Management believes such allocations are reasonable; however, they may not be indicative of the actual results of the Company had the Company been operating as an independent company for the periods presented or the amounts that will be incurred by the Company in the future. Actual costs that may have been incurred if the Company had been a stand-alone company for the periods presented would depend on a number of factors, including the Company's chosen organizational structure, what functions were outsourced or performed by the Company's employees and strategic decisions made in areas such as information technology systems and infrastructure. Note 2, "Related Party Transactions" provides further information regarding general corporate overhead allocations.

              All intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated. All significant intercompany transactions between the Company and Rockwood have been included in these condensed combined financial statements and are considered to be effectively settled for cash in the condensed combined financial statements at the time the transaction is recorded. The total net effect of the settlement of these intercompany transactions is reflected in the condensed combined statements of cash flows as a financing activity and in the condensed combined balance sheet as "Parent company investment."

              Rockwood uses a centralized approach to cash management and financing of operations. The majority of the Company's subsidiaries are party to Rockwood's cash concentration arrangements with four financial institutions to maximize the availability of cash for general operating and investing purposes. Under two of the cash concentration arrangements, cash balances are swept daily from the Company's accounts, whose owners are party to the arrangements into Rockwood's concentration accounts. Cash transfers to and from Rockwood's cash concentration accounts and the resulting balances at the end of each reporting period are reflected in "Parent company investment" in the equity section on the condensed combined balance sheet.

              Rockwood's third-party debt, and the related interest expense, has not been allocated to the Company for any of the periods presented as the Company was not the legal obligor of the debt and Rockwood's borrowings were not directly attributable to the Company's business.

              The Company's noncontrolling interest represents the total of the noncontrolling party's interest in certain investments (principally the Titanium Dioxide Venture and the Viance joint venture) that are combined but less than 100% owned. See Note 2, "Related Party Transactions," for details regarding Rockwood's acquisition of Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide venture in February 2013.

              Unless otherwise noted, all balance sheet items which are denominated in Euros are converted at the September 30, 2014 exchange rate of €1.00 = $1.2631 and December 31, 2013 exchange rate of €1.00 = $1.3743. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, the average rate of exchange of the Euro to the U.S. dollar is $1.3557 and $1.3175, respectively.

Recently Issued Accounting Standards:

              In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued an Accounting Standards Update ("ASU") that changes the criteria for reporting discontinued operations. Under the new guidance, only disposals representing a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an

F-136


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

1. BASIS OF PRESENTATION AND NEW ACCOUNTING STANDARDS: (Continued)

entity's operations and financial results should be presented as discontinued operations. Examples of these include disposals of a major geographic area, a major line of business or a major equity method investment. In addition, the new guidance requires expanded disclosures about discontinued operations, as well as requiring disclosure of pre-tax income attributable to a disposal of a significant part of an organization that does not qualify for discontinued operations reporting. This ASU is effective for the Company in its first quarter beginning January 1, 2015 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

              In May 2014, the FASB and the International Accounting Standards Board ("IASB") issued their final standard on revenue from contracts with customers. The standard, issued as an ASU by the FASB and as International Financial Reporting Standards 15 by the IASB, outlines a single comprehensive model for entities to use in accounting for revenue arising from contracts with customers and supersedes most current revenue recognition guidance, including industry-specific guidance. The core principle of the revenue model is that an entity recognizes revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU is effective for the Company in its first quarter beginning January 1, 2017 and the impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements is still being evaluated.

              In June 2014, the FASB issued an ASU that clarified that entities should treat performance targets that can be met after the requisite service period of a share-based payment award as performance conditions that affect vesting. Therefore, an entity would not record compensation expense related to an award for which transfer to the employee is contingent on the entity's satisfaction of a performance target until it becomes probable that the performance target is met. This ASU is effective for the Company in its first quarter beginning January 1, 2016 and is not expected to have a material impact on the Company's consolidated financial statements.

2. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS:

Trade Activity

              In the ordinary course of business, the Company has engaged in transactions with certain related parties. The Company had sales to Rockwood and its affiliates of $1.5 million and $4.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Purchases from Rockwood and its affiliates, primarily related to insurance, were $20.7 million and $16.7 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The Company had amounts due from Rockwood and its affiliates of $0.4 million and $1.2 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, and amounts due to Rockwood and its affiliates of $0.4 million and $1.5 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

Allocation of General Corporate Overhead

              These condensed combined statements of operations include expense allocations for certain expenses related to centralized functions historically provided to the Company by Rockwood, including general expenses related to centralized functions such as executive oversight, risk management, information technology, treasury, tax, legal, human resources, internal and external audit and accounting.

F-137


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

2. RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS: (Continued)

              These allocations are based on specific identification, the percentage of the Company's net sales and headcount to the respective total Rockwood net sales and headcount. These allocations are reflected in selling, general and administrative expenses in these condensed combined statements of operations and totaled $19.8 million and $16.5 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. Further discussion of allocations is included in Note 1, "Basis of Presentation and New Accounting Standards."

Parent Company Equity

              The majority of the Company's subsidiaries are party to Rockwood's cash concentration arrangements with four financial institutions to maximize the availability of cash for general operating and investing purposes. Under two of the cash concentration arrangements, cash balances are swept daily from the Company's accounts into Rockwood's concentration accounts. As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, the Company's payable to Rockwood resulting from the cash concentration arrangements was $78.7 million and $65.8 million, respectively. The resulting payable to Rockwood at the end of each reporting period are reflected in "Parent company investment" in the equity section on the condensed combined balance sheet.

              In addition to cash concentration arrangements, the net transfers to and from Rockwood were general financing activities, cash transfers for acquisitions, investments and various allocations from Rockwood. The total net effect of the settlement of these intercompany transactions is reflected in the condensed combined statements of cash flows as a financing activity. Intercompany funding with Rockwood and related interest expense has not been reflected in the condensed combined financial statements and are included as a component of "Parent company investment" in the condensed combined balance sheet.

Titanium Dioxide Venture

              On February 15, 2013, Rockwood acquired Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide Venture for a purchase price of €97.5 million ($130.3 million based on the rate in effect on the date of purchase). As a result, Rockwood now owns 100% of the Titanium Dioxide Venture. The acquisition of Kemira's 39% interest is shown as a component of "Parent company investment" in the Company's condensed combined balance sheet.

Viance Joint Venture

              In conjunction with the formation of the Viance joint venture between CSI and Dow, Viance entered into certain related party transactions. Viance does not own manufacturing facilities, and as a result, relies on the members of the joint venture to provide substantially all production requirements. In addition, the members sell products to Viance.

3. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES:

Titanium Dioxide Venture

              The Company formed a Titanium Dioxide Pigments venture with Kemira in September 2008. The Company previously owned 61% of the venture and consolidated it based on the "voting interest"

F-138


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

3. VARIABLE INTEREST ENTITIES: (Continued)

model given its majority ownership and ability to control decision making. On February 15, 2013, the Company acquired Kemira's 39% interest in the Titanium Dioxide Pigments venture for a purchase price of €97.5 million ($130.3 million based on the rate in effect on the date of purchase). The increase in ownership was accounted for as an equity transaction. As a result, the Company owns 100% of the Titanium Dioxide Pigments business. In conjunction with this venture, there is a power plant that was previously determined to be a variable interest entity ("VIE"). Subsequent to the purchase of Kemira's 39% interest, the power plant will continue to be a VIE.

Viance Joint Venture

              The Viance joint venture provides an extensive range of advanced wood treatment technologies and services to the global wood treatment industry. The Company has concluded that it is the primary beneficiary of Viance and as such has combined the joint venture. This conclusion was made as the Company has the obligation to absorb losses of Viance that could potentially be significant to Viance and/or the right to receive benefits from Viance that could potentially be significant to Viance. In addition, the Company has the power to direct the activities of Viance that most significantly impact Viance's performance, as Viance does not own manufacturing facilities. As a result, Viance primarily relies on the Company to provide product and distribution requirements through a supply agreement.

              As of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, no combined assets of the Company were pledged as collateral for any obligations of Viance and the general creditors of Viance had no recourse against the Company. Viance's assets can only be used to settle direct obligations of Viance.

              The carrying values of the assets and liabilities of the Viance joint venture included in the condensed combined balance sheet are as follows:

 
  September 30, 2014   December 31, 2013  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Cash

  $ 5.9   $ 2.9  

Other current assets

    9.6     8.6  

Total current assets

    15.5     11.5  

Other intangible assets, net

    46.9     51.7  

Other assets

    1.9     1.7  

Total assets

  $ 64.3   $ 64.9  

Total liabilities

  $ 4.0   $ 3.6  

4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS:

              Financial instruments include accounts receivable, accounts payable, debt instruments and derivatives. Due to their short term maturity, the carrying amount of receivables and payables approximates fair value. The Company has exposure to market risk from changes in interest rates. As a result, certain derivative financial instruments may be used when available on a cost-effective basis to hedge the underlying economic exposure. Changes in the fair value of derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting are recognized in earnings as they occur. Derivative financial instruments are not used for trading purposes.

F-139


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

4. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS: (Continued)

              The Company follows a fair value measurement hierarchy to measure assets and liabilities. The Company did not have any liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013. In addition, the Company measures its pension plan assets at fair value (see Note 12, "Employee Benefit Plans," in the Company's audited combined financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013 for further details). The Company's financial assets and liabilities are measured using inputs from the three levels of the fair value hierarchy as follows:

Level 1—   Inputs are unadjusted quoted market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Company has the ability to access at the measurement date.

Level 2—

 

Inputs are directly or indirectly observable, which include quoted prices for similar assets and liabilities in active markets, quoted prices for identical or similar assets or liabilities in markets that are not active, inputs other than quoted prices that are observable for the asset or liability and inputs that are derived principally from or corroborated by observable market data by correlation or other means. The fair values of derivatives are based on quoted market prices from various banks for similar instruments. The valuation of these instruments reflects the contractual terms of the derivatives, including the period to maturity, and uses observable market-based inputs, including forward curves.

Level 3—

 

Inputs are unobservable inputs that are used to measure fair value to the extent observable inputs are not available. The Company does not have any recurring financial assets or liabilities that are recorded on its condensed combined balance sheet as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013 that are classified as Level 3 inputs.

Interest Rate Swaps Not Designated as Hedging Instruments

              As a result of the repayment of all borrowings under the Titanium Dioxide facility agreement in March 2013, the Titanium Dioxide Venture terminated the outstanding interest rate swaps, resulting in a payment of €3.0 million ($3.9 million based on exchange rates in effect on the date of transaction). A gain of $0.9 million related to the interest rate swaps was recognized in interest expense for the nine months ended September 30, 2013. See Note 4, "Financial Instruments and Fair Value Measurements," in the Company's audited combined financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013 for further details.

Note Receivable

              The Company has a non-interest bearing note receivable from its former Titanium Dioxide Venture partner in the amount of $29.4 million that is due in August 2028 with a carrying value of $7.3 million and $7.4 million in other assets in the condensed combined balance sheet as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. Interest is imputed at an effective rate of 8.96%. The fair value of the note receivable is approximately $13.0 million and $13.6 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, and is categorized as Level 3 in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value is determined based on an internally developed valuation that uses current interest rates in developing a present value of the receivable.

F-140


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

5. INVENTORIES:

              Inventories are comprised of the following:

 
  September 30, 2014   December 31, 2013  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Raw materials

  $ 144.1   $ 142.0  

Work-in-process

    27.2     26.1  

Finished goods

    249.5     249.1  

Packaging materials

    3.3     3.2  

Total

  $ 424.1   $ 420.4  

6. INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET:

 
  As of September 30, 2014   As of December 31, 2013  
 
  Gross
Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Net   Gross
Carrying
Amount
  Accumulated
Amortization
  Net  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Patents and other intellectual property

  $ 150.7   $ (77.1 ) $ 73.6   $ 160.1   $ (75.9 ) $ 84.2  

Trade names and trademarks

    36.5     (13.9 )   22.6     39.6     (14.0 )   25.6  

Customer relationships

    118.0     (63.4 )   54.6     125.9     (62.1 )   63.8  

Supply agreements

    46.1     (27.0 )   19.1     48.2     (25.4 )   22.8  

Other

    18.4     (16.8 )   1.6     16.9     (12.7 )   4.2  

Total

  $ 369.7   $ (198.2 ) $ 171.5   $ 390.7   $ (190.1 ) $ 200.6  

              Amortization of other intangible assets was $20.1 million and $19.0 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

              Goodwill —The Company does not have any goodwill recorded as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, as it recorded a full impairment charge of $642.3 million in the fourth quarter of 2008.

7. LONG-TERM DEBT:

              Long-term debt is summarized as follows:

 
  September 30, 2014   December 31, 2013  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Capitalized lease obligations

  $ 0.4   $ 3.1  

Other loans

    2.9     5.4  

Total

    3.3     8.5  

Less current maturities

    (0.2 )   (3.2 )

Total long-term debt

  $ 3.1   $ 5.3  

F-141


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

7. LONG-TERM DEBT: (Continued)

              For further details of the terms of the Company's long-term debt, see Note 8, "Long-Term Debt," in the Company's audited combined financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013.

8. INCOME TAXES:

              During the periods presented, the Company's U.S. legal entities did not file separate U.S. federal tax returns, as their operating results were included in the Rockwood consolidated U.S. federal tax return with other Rockwood entities. The Company does file separate foreign and state income tax returns for its legal entities except in one jurisdiction and two states where they are required to be included in a tax grouping of other Rockwood entities. The income tax provisions included in these condensed combined financial statements were calculated using the separate return basis, as if the Company was a separate taxpayer. With the exception of certain dedicated entities, the Company did not maintain taxes payable to/from its parent and is deemed to settle the annual current tax balances immediately with the legal tax-paying entities in the respective jurisdictions. These settlements are reflected as changes in "Parent Company Investment" within equity in the condensed combined balance sheet.

              The effective tax rate was 44.4% and 16.3% for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 was higher than the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to an increase in the valuation allowance of 25.8%, primarily in Germany and the U.S., partially offset by a beneficial foreign earnings mix of (16.4)%, primarily in Finland, Germany and the U.K.

              The income tax rate for the nine months ended September 30, 2013 was lower than the U.S. statutory rate of 35% primarily due to a foreign earnings mix of (12.9)% primarily in Finland, Germany and the U.K., as well as an increase in the valuation allowance of (5.8)% on a loss before taxes, primarily in the U.S.

              A table reflecting the activity in the valuation allowance is as follows:

 
  Allowance
Valuation
 
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Balance as of December 31, 2013

  $ 50.6  

Increase as reflected in income tax expense

    4.9  

Other

    (0.3 )

Balance as of September 30, 2014

  $ 55.2  

              The unrecognized tax benefits of $3.8 million and $3.9 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, would, if recognized, benefit the effective tax rate.

              The Company is currently under audit in certain jurisdictions and during the next twelve months, it is reasonably possible that resolution of these audits could result in no change. Audit outcomes and the timing of audit settlements are subject to significant uncertainty.

F-142


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

9. STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION:

              The aggregate compensation cost for restricted stock units and Board of Director stock grants recorded under the stock-based compensation plans was $1.0 million and $1.8 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The total tax benefit recognized related to stock awards was $0.3 million and $0.6 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

              For further details of the terms of the Company's stock-based compensation plans, see Note 11, "Stock-Based Compensation," in the Company's audited combined financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013.

10. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS:

              The following table represents the net periodic benefit cost of defined benefit pension plans:

 
  Nine months
ended
September 30,
 
 
  2014   2013  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Service cost

  $ 4.1   $ 4.9  

Interest cost

    8.4     7.7  

Expected return on assets

    (4.3 )   (4.2 )

Net amortization of actuarial losses

    3.2     7.5  

Amortization of prior service cost

    0.1     0.1  

Total pension cost

  $ 11.5   $ 16.0  

              The Company also sponsors and participates in various defined contribution and multi-employer plans. The expense for the defined contribution plans was $2.8 million and $2.4 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively. The expense for the multi-employer plans was $2.4 million and $2.1 million for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013, respectively.

11. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER SEVERANCE COSTS:

              The Company records restructuring liabilities that represent charges incurred in connection with consolidations and cessations of certain of its operations, including operations from acquisitions, as well as headcount reduction programs. These charges consist primarily of severance and facility/entity closure costs. Severance charges are based on various factors including the employee's length of service, contract provisions, salary levels and local governmental legislation. At the time a related charge is recorded, the Company calculates its best estimate based upon detailed analysis. Although significant changes are not expected, actual costs may differ from these estimates.

F-143


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

11. RESTRUCTURING AND OTHER SEVERANCE COSTS: (Continued)

              The following table provides the restructuring and other severance costs for the nine months ended September 30, 2014 and 2013:

 
  Nine months
ended
September 30,
 
 
  2014   2013  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Severance/Relocation

  $   $ 0.7  

Facility closure and other

    0.2     1.1  

Total restructuring charge

    0.2     1.8  

Other severance costs

        0.3  

Total

  $ 0.2   $ 2.1  

              For the nine months ended September 30, 2013, the restructuring charges primarily relate to severance and facility closure costs in connection with the future consolidation of the Color Pigments and Services business and severance costs in the Titanium Dioxide Pigments business.

              All restructuring actions still in progress as of September 30, 2014 are expected to be substantially complete within the next twelve months, except for severance and facility closure costs in connection with the future consolidation of the Color Pigments and Services business. However, payouts of certain liabilities resulting from these actions will take place over several years. There are no significant future costs related to open restructuring plans remaining. Selected information for outstanding liabilities from recent restructuring actions is as follows:

 
  Severance/
Relocation
  Facility Closure
and Other
  Total  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Liability balance, December 31, 2013

  $ 1.8   $ 0.4   $ 2.2  

Restructuring charge in 2014

        0.2     0.2  

Utilized

    (0.5 )   (0.4 )   (0.9 )

Other

    0.1     0.1     0.2  

Liability balance, September 30, 2014

  $ 1.4   $ 0.3   $ 1.7  

F-144


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

12. ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS):

              Changes in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are as follows:

 
  Pension related
adjustments, net
of tax
  Foreign currency
translation
  Total
accumulated
other
comprehensive
income (loss)
 
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Balance at December 31, 2013

  $ (43.7 ) $ 68.5   $ 24.8  

Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications

    3.5     (78.1 )   (74.6 )

Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income to net income

    2.4         2.4  

Balance at September 30, 2014

  $ (37.8 ) $ (9.6 ) $ (47.4 )

              The amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into net income are as follows:

 
  Amounts
Reclassified
from
Accumulated
Other
Comprehensive
Income
 
 
  Nine months
ended
September 30,
 
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Components
  2014   2013  
 
  ($ in millions)
 

Pension related adjustments:

             

Actuarial losses(a)

  $ 3.2   $ 7.5  

Prior service costs(a)

    0.1     0.1  

    3.3     7.6  

Income tax provision

    (0.9 )   (2.0 )

Total reclassifications for the period

  $ 2.4   $ 5.6  

(a)
These accumulated other comprehensive income components are included in the computation of net periodic pension costs that are recorded in costs of products sold and selling, general and administrative expenses in the condensed consolidated statements of operations.

13. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES:

              Legal Proceedings —The Company is involved in various legal proceedings, including commercial, intellectual property, product liability, regulatory and environmental matters of a nature considered normal for its business. The Company accrues for amounts related to these matters if it is

F-145


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

13. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

probable that a liability has been incurred and an amount can be reasonably estimated. The Company discloses such matters when there is at least a reasonable possibility that a material loss may have been incurred. However, the Company cannot predict the ultimate outcome of any litigation or the potential for future litigation.

              Although the Company expects to continue to pay legal fees in connection with the above matters, other legal actions, such as chromated copper arsenate, and other product liability matters, such as certain high purity color pigments, based on currently available facts, the Company does not believe that any individual action will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Reserves in connection with known product liability matters equaled $0.6 million as of September 30, 2014. The Company's reserve estimates are based on available facts, including damage claims and input from its internal and external legal counsel, past experience, and, in some instances where defense costs are being paid by its insurer, known or expected insurance recoveries. The Company is unable to estimate the amount or range of any potential incremental charges should facts and circumstances change and may in the future revise its estimates based on new information becoming available. Further, the Company cannot predict the outcome of any litigation or the potential for future litigation.

              Indemnity Matters —The Company is indemnified by third parties in connection with certain matters related to acquired businesses. Although the Company has no reason to believe that the financial condition of those parties who may have indemnification obligations to the Company is other than sound, in the event the Company seeks indemnity under any of these agreements or through other means, there can be no assurance that any party who may have obligations to indemnify the Company will adhere to their obligations and the Company may have to resort to legal action to enforce its rights under the indemnities. In cases where the Company's indemnification claims to such third parties are uncontested, the Company expects to realize recoveries within the short term.

              In the opinion of management, and based upon information currently available, the ultimate resolution of any indemnification obligations owed to the Company or by the Company is not expected to have a material effect on the Company's financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

              Guarantees —The Company's U.S. Entities, along with certain other Rockwood Specialties Group, Inc. ("RSGI") U.S. subsidiaries, are guarantors of RSGI's obligation under the terms of the indenture related to the $1.25 billion of 4.625% senior notes due in 2020 ("Notes").

              Rockwood and the Company intend to obtain releases from these guarantees in connection with the divestiture of the Company.

              The indenture governing the Notes contain various affirmative and restrictive covenants which limit the ability of RSGI and the Company, subject to certain exceptions, to incur or guarantee additional indebtedness, make investments and other restricted payments, create liens, sell assets, engage in certain transactions with certain affiliates, and merge or consolidate with other companies or sell substantially all of our assets. In addition, RSGI is subject to further limitations on its ability to pay dividends or make other distributions (limited to $600 million, plus additional amounts subject to satisfying certain leverage ratios).

F-146


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

13. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

Safety, Health and Environmental Matters

              For further details of the Company's Safety, Health and Management Systems, SHE Capital Expenditures and Regulatory Developments, see Note 15, "Commitments, Contingencies and Guarantees," in the Company's audited combined financial statements for the year ended December 31, 2013.

Environmental Reserves

              Environmental laws have a significant effect on the nature and scope of any clean-up of contamination at current and former operating facilities, the costs of transportation and storage of chemicals and finished products and the costs of the storage and disposal of wastes.

              In addition, "Superfund" statutes in the United States as well as statutes in other jurisdictions impose strict, joint and several liability for clean-up costs on the entities that generated waste and/or arranged for its disposal at contaminated third party sites, as well as the past and present owners and operators of contaminated sites. All responsible parties may be required to bear some or all clean-up costs regardless of fault, legality of the original disposal or ownership of the disposal site.

              The following table provides a list of the Company's present and former facilities with environmental contamination or reclamation obligations for which the Company has reserved for as of September 30, 2014:

Country
  Location   (a)   (b)   (c)

China

  Shenzhen       X    

Finland

  Kipsikorpi           X

Germany

  Duisburg   X       X

  Hainhausen   X        

  Schwarzheide           X

  Uerdingen   X        

Italy

  Turin   X        

United Kingdom

  Birtley       X    

United States

  Beltsville, MD   X        

  East St. Louis, IL       X    

  Easton, PA       X    

  Harrisburg, NC   X   X    

  Valdosta, GA   X        

(a)
The Company is currently operating groundwater monitoring and/or remediation systems at these locations.

(b)
The Company is currently conducting investigations into additional possible soil and/or groundwater contamination at these locations.

(c)
The Company has land restoration obligations generally relating to landfill activities at these locations.

F-147


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

13. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

              The Company is also responsible for environmental matters at some of its former off-site disposal locations owned by third parties. These sites are considered Superfund sites as defined by the EPA or state regulatory authority.

              Although the Company cannot provide assurances in this regard, the Company does not believe that these issues will have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. Nonetheless, the discovery of contamination arising from present or historical industrial operations at some of the Company's or its predecessor's former and present properties and/or at sites where the Company and its predecessor disposed wastes could expose the Company to cleanup obligations and other damages in the future.

              The Company has established financial reserves relating to anticipated environmental cleanup obligations, site reclamation and remediation and closure costs, which are reviewed at least quarterly based on currently available information. Liabilities are recorded when potential liabilities are either known or believed to be probable and can be reasonably estimated. In the event that the Company establishes a financial reserve in connection with site remediation costs, the Company records a reserve for the estimated cost of the remediation, even though the costs of the remediation will likely be spread out over many years. The Company does not include unasserted claims in its reserves.

              The Company's liability estimates are based upon available facts, existing technology, indemnities from third parties, past experience and, in some instances, insurance recoveries where the remediation costs are being paid by its insurers, and are generated by several means, including State-mandated schedules, environmental consultants and internal experts, depending on the circumstances. On a combined basis, the Company has accrued $21.7 million and $24.5 million for environmental liabilities as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, most of which were classified as other non-current liabilities in the condensed combined balance sheet. Included in the environmental liabilities are reclamation obligations of $7.1 million and $8.1 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively. These obligations primarily relate to post-closure reclamation of landfills and manufacturing sites.

              The remaining environmental liabilities ($14.6 million and $16.4 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively), represent remediation obligations. The Company estimates that the potential range for such environmental matters (excluding reclamation obligations) as of September 30, 2014 is from $14.6 million to $31.4 million. Of these accruals, $5.6 million and $6.6 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively, represent liabilities discounted using discount rates ranging from 5.5% to 7.0%, with the undiscounted amount of these reserves being $8.7 million and $9.7 million as of September 30, 2014 and December 31, 2013, respectively.

              The Company's remediation liabilities are payable over periods of up to 30 years. At a number of the sites described above, the extent of contamination has not yet been fully investigated or the final scope of remediation is not yet determinable and could potentially affect the range. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the Company recorded charges of $1.1 million to increase its environmental liabilities and made payments of $2.3 million for reclamation and remediation costs, which reduced its environmental liabilities. For the nine months ended September 30, 2014, the recurring cost of managing hazardous substances for ongoing operations is $33.5 million.

F-148


Table of Contents


TITANIUM DIOXIDE PIGMENTS AND OTHER BUSINESSES OF
ROCKWOOD HOLDINGS, INC.

Notes To Condensed Combined Financial Statements (Unaudited) (Continued)

13. COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND GUARANTEES: (Continued)

              The Company believes these accruals are adequate based on currently available information. The Company may incur losses in excess of the amounts accrued; however, based on currently available information, it does not believe the additional amount of potential losses would have a material adverse effect on its business or financial condition, but may have a material adverse effect on the results of operations or cash flows in any given quarterly or annual reporting period. The Company does not believe that any known individual environmental matter would have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or cash flows. The Company is unable to estimate the amount or range of any potential incremental charges should facts and circumstances change and may in the future revise its estimates based on new information becoming available.

              In the event that manufacturing operations are discontinued at any of the Company's facilities with known contamination, regulatory authorities may impose more stringent requirements on the Company including soil remediation. The Company does not contemplate any such action occurring in the foreseeable future, as these facilities' remaining lives are not known. Given the indeterminate useful life of these facilities and the corresponding indeterminate settlement date of any soil remediation obligations, the Company does not have sufficient information to estimate a range of potential settlement dates for its obligations. Consequently, the Company cannot employ a present value technique to estimate fair value and, accordingly, has not accrued for any environmental-related costs to remediate soil at these facilities.

14. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS:

              On October 1, 2014, Rockwood completed the sale of its Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other businesses to Huntsman Corporation for an enterprise value of $1.275 billion, including the assumption of $225 million in pension obligations and subject to certain post-closing adjustments.

F-149


Table of Contents

 

              Through and including                , 2017 (the 25th day after the date of this prospectus), all dealers effecting transactions in the ordinary shares, whether or not participating in this offering, may be required to deliver a prospectus. This delivery requirement is in addition to a dealer's obligation to deliver a prospectus when acting as an underwriter and with respect to an unsold allotment or subscription.

            Shares

LOGO

Venator Materials PLC

Ordinary Shares



PROSPECTUS



Citigroup
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC
BofA Merrill Lynch
J.P. Morgan
Barclays
Deutsche Bank Securities
UBS Investment Bank
RBC Capital Markets
Moelis & Company
HSBC
Nomura
SunTrust Robinson Humphrey
Academy Securities
COMMERZBANK

                        , 2017

   


Table of Contents


Part II

INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS

Item 13.    Other Expenses of Issuance and Distribution

              The following table sets forth an itemized statement of the amounts of all expenses (excluding underwriting discounts and commissions) payable by us in connection with the registration of the ordinary shares offered hereby. With the exception of the SEC registration fee, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA") filing fee, and the NYSE listing fee, the amounts set forth below are estimates.

SEC registration fee

  $ 11,590  

FINRA filing fee

    15,500  

NYSE listing fee

    *  

Accounting fees and expenses

    *  

Legal fees and expenses

    *  

Printing and engraving expenses

    *  

Transfer agent and registrar fees

    *  

Miscellaneous

    *  

Total

  $ *  

*
To be provided by amendment

Item 14.    Indemnification of Directors and Officers

              We plan to enter into indemnification agreements with our directors and executive officers to indemnify them to the maximum extent allowed under applicable law. These agreements indemnify these individuals against certain costs, charges, losses, liabilities, damages and expenses incurred by such director or officer in the execution or discharge of his or her duties. These agreements do not indemnify our directors against any liability attaching to such individuals in connection with any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust in relation to the company of which he or she is a director, which would be rendered void under the Companies Act 2006. The U.K. specific restrictions apply to directors but not officers.

              We intend to maintain liability insurance policies that indemnify our directors and officers against various liabilities, including certain liabilities under arising under the Securities Act and the Exchange Act, that may be incurred by them in their capacity as such.

              The proposed form of Underwriting Agreement filed as Exhibit 1.1 to this registration statement provides for indemnification of our directors and officers by the underwriters against certain liabilities arising under the Securities Act or otherwise in connection with this offering.

              Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers or persons controlling us pursuant to the foregoing provisions, we have been informed that in the opinion of the SEC, such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is therefore unenforceable.

Item 15.    Recent Sales of Unregistered Securities

              Upon our formation, we issued 50,000 of our ordinary shares, par value £1 per share (the "Subscriber Shares"), to Huntsman International (Netherlands) B.V., an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman. On June 30, 2017, (a) Huntsman International (Netherlands) B.V. transferred the Subscriber Shares to Huntsman International, and (b) we issued 50,000 redeemable shares, par

II-1


Table of Contents

value £1 per share, and one ordinary share, par value $1 per share, to Huntsman International, all of which (including the Subscriber Shares) will be repurchased by us prior to the consummation of the offering. Prior to the consummation of the offering, we expect to issue            ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share, to Huntsman International and             ordinary shares, par value $0.001 per share, to HHN. Immediately prior to the completion of this offering, we expect Huntsman International and HHN will be the sole shareholders of Venator. Immediately following the completion of this offering, we expect HHN will be the sole Huntsman owned entity holding shares of Venator. Each issuance of shares made prior to the issuance of shares in this offering was, or will be, made pursuant to the exemption from registration in Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act because the offer and issuance of the ordinary shares did not, or will not, involve a public offering, and we have not otherwise sold any securities, registered or otherwise, within the past three years.

Item 16.    Exhibits and Financial Statement Schedules

              (a)   Exhibits. See the Exhibit Index immediately following the signature page hereto, which is incorporated by reference as if fully set forth herein.

              (b)   Financial Statement Schedules. Financial statement schedules are omitted because the required information is not applicable, not required or included in the financial statements or the notes thereto included in the prospectus that forms a part of this registration statement.

Item 17.    Undertakings

              The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to provide to the underwriters at the closing specified in the underwriting agreement certificates in such denominations and registered in such names as required by the underwriters to permit prompt delivery to each purchaser.

              Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of the registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the SEC such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

              The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that:

              (1)   For purposes of determining any liability under the Securities Act, the information omitted from the form of prospectus filed as part of this registration statement in reliance upon Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the registrant pursuant to Rule 424(b)(1) or (4) or 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be part of this registration statement as of the time it was declared effective.

              (2)   For the purpose of determining any liability under the Securities Act, each post-effective amendment that contains a form of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.

II-2


Table of Contents


SIGNATURES

              Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, the registrant has duly caused this registration statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of The Woodlands, State of Texas, on July 14, 2017.

    Venator Materials PLC

 

 

By:

 

/s/ RUSS STOLLE

Russ Stolle
Senior Vice President, General Counsel and
Chief Compliance Officer

Date: July 14, 2017

              Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act, this registration statement has been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

Name
 
Title
 
Date

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
*

Simon Turner
  President and Chief Executive Officer, and Director (Principal Executive Officer)   July 14, 2017

/s/ KURT OGDEN

Kurt Ogden

 

Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer), and Venator's Authorized Representative in the United States

 

July 14, 2017

*

Stephen Ibbotson

 

Vice President and Corporate Controller (Principal Accounting Officer)

 

July 14, 2017

/s/ PETER R. HUNTSMAN

Peter R. Huntsman

 

Director

 

July 14, 2017

*

Sir Robert J. Margetts

 

Director

 

July 14, 2017

*By

 

/s/ RUSS STOLLE

Russ Stolle
Attorney-in-fact

 

 

 

July 14, 2017

II-3


Table of Contents


INDEX TO EXHIBITS

Exhibit No.   Description
  1.1   Form of Underwriting Agreement
  2.1 ** Form of Separation Agreement
  3.1 ** Articles of Association
  3.2   Form of Amended and Restated Articles of Association
  4.1 ** Form of Certificate evidencing Ordinary Shares
  4.2 ** Form of Registration Rights Agreement
  4.3   Form of Indenture for 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025
  4.4   Form of 5.75% Senior Note due 2025 (included in Exhibit 4.3)
  5.1   Form of Opinion of Vinson & Elkins R.L.L.P.
  10.1 ** Form of Transition Services Agreement
  10.2   Form of Tax Matters Agreement
  10.3 ** Form of Employee Matters Agreement
  10.4   Form of Venator Materials PLC Stock Incentive Plan
  10.5   Form of Indemnification Agreement
  10.6 * Form of ABL Facility Agreement
  10.7   Form of Term Loan Credit Agreement
  10.8   Employment Transfer Agreement (Stolle)
  10.9   Employment Transfer Agreement (Ogden)
  10.10   Employment Agreement (Buberl)
  10.11   Form of Employment Agreement (Maiter)
  10.12   Form of Executive Severance Plan
  21.1   List of Subsidiaries of Venator Materials PLC
  23.1   Consent of Vinson & Elkins R.L.L.P. (included in Exhibit 5.1)
  23.2   Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP (Venator Materials PLC)
  23.3   Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP (Venator (Combined Divisions of Huntsman))
  23.4   Consent of Deloitte & Touche LLP (Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc.)
  24.1 ** Powers of Attorney (included on the signature page of Registration Statement)
  24.2 ** Powers of Attorney
  99.1 ** Consent to be Named (Ferrari)
  99.2 ** Consent to be Named (Anderson)

*
To be filed by amendment.

**
Previously filed.

II-4




Exhibit 1.1

 

 

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

(a public limited company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales)

 

[ · ] Ordinary Shares

 

UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT

 

Dated:  [ · ], 2017

 

 

 



 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

(a public limited company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales)

 

[ · ] Ordinary Shares

 

FORM OF UNDERWRITING AGREEMENT

 

[ · ], 2017

 

Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

 

c/o Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

388 Greenwich Street

New York, New York 10013

 

as Representative of the several Underwriters

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

Venator Materials PLC, a public limited company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (the “Company”), Huntsman International LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“Huntsman International”), and Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V., a private limited liability company ( besloten vennootschap met beperkte aansprakelijkheid ) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands (“Huntsman Holdings” and, together with Huntsman International, the “Selling Shareholders”), confirm their respective agreements with each of the other Underwriters named in Schedule A hereto (collectively, the “Underwriters,” which term shall also include any underwriter substituted as hereinafter provided in Section 11 hereof), for whom you are acting as representatives (in such capacity, the “Representatives”), with respect to (i) the sale by the Selling Shareholders and the purchase by the Underwriters, acting severally and not jointly, of the respective numbers of Ordinary Shares, par value $0.001 per share, of the Company (“Ordinary Shares”) set forth in Schedules A and B hereto and (ii) the grant by the Selling Shareholders to the Underwriters, acting severally and not jointly, of the option described in Section 2(b) hereof to purchase all or any part of [ · ] additional Ordinary Shares.  The aforesaid [ · ] Ordinary Shares (the “Initial Securities”) to be purchased by the Underwriters and all or any part of the [ · ] Ordinary Shares subject to the option described in Section 2(b) hereof (the “Option Securities”) are herein called, collectively, the “Securities.”

 

The Company and the Selling Shareholders understand that the Underwriters propose to make a public offering of the Securities as soon as the Representatives deem advisable after this Agreement has been executed and delivered.

 

The Company has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) a registration statement on Form S-1 (No. 333-217753), including the related preliminary prospectus or prospectuses, covering the registration of the sale of the Securities under the Securities Act of 1933, as

 

1



 

amended (the “1933 Act”).  Promptly after execution and delivery of this Agreement, the Company will prepare and file a prospectus in accordance with the provisions of Rule 430A (“Rule 430A”) of the rules and regulations of the Commission under the 1933 Act (the “1933 Act Regulations”) and Rule 424(b) (“Rule 424(b)”) of the 1933 Act Regulations.  The information included in such prospectus that was omitted from such registration statement at the time it became effective but that is deemed to be part of such registration statement at the time it became effective pursuant to Rule 430A(b) is herein called the “Rule 430A Information.”  Such registration statement, including the amendments thereto, the exhibits thereto and any schedules thereto, at the time it became effective, and including the Rule 430A Information, is herein called the “Registration Statement.”  Any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) of the 1933 Act Regulations is herein called the “Rule 462(b) Registration Statement” and, after such filing, the term “Registration Statement” shall include the Rule 462(b) Registration Statement.  Each prospectus used prior to the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, and each prospectus that omitted the Rule 430A Information that was used after such effectiveness and prior to the execution and delivery of this Agreement, is herein called a “preliminary prospectus.”  The final prospectus, in the form first furnished to the Underwriters for use in connection with the offering of the Securities, is herein called the “Prospectus.”  For purposes of this Agreement, all references to the Registration Statement, any preliminary prospectus, the Prospectus or any amendment or supplement to any of the foregoing shall be deemed to include the copy filed with the Commission pursuant to its Electronic Data Gathering, Analysis and Retrieval system or any successor system (“EDGAR”).

 

As used in this Agreement:

 

“Applicable Time” means [ · :00 P./A.M.], New York City time, on [ · ] or such other time as agreed by the Company and the Representatives.

 

“General Disclosure Package” means any Issuer General Use Free Writing Prospectuses issued at or prior to the Applicable Time, the most recent preliminary prospectus that is distributed to investors prior to the Applicable Time and the information included on Schedule C-1 hereto, all considered together.

 

“Issuer Free Writing Prospectus” means any “issuer free writing prospectus,” as defined in Rule 433 of the 1933 Act Regulations (“Rule 433”), including without limitation any “free writing prospectus” (as defined in Rule 405 of the 1933 Act Regulations (“Rule 405”)) relating to the Securities that is (i) required to be filed with the Commission by the Company, (ii) a “road show that is a written communication” within the meaning of Rule 433(d)(8)(i), whether or not required to be filed with the Commission, or (iii) exempt from filing with the Commission pursuant to Rule 433(d)(5)(i) because it contains a description of the Securities or of the offering that does not reflect the final terms, in each case in the form filed or required to be filed with the Commission or, if not required to be filed, in the form retained in the Company’s records pursuant to Rule 433(g).

 

“Issuer General Use Free Writing Prospectus” means any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus that is intended for general distribution to prospective investors (other than a “ bona fide electronic road show,” as defined in Rule 433 (the “Bona Fide Electronic Road Show”)), as evidenced by its being specified in Schedule C-2 hereto.

 

“Issuer Limited Use Free Writing Prospectus” means any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus that is not an Issuer General Use Free Writing Prospectus.

 

On the date hereof, the business of the Company is conducted through various wholly-owned subsidiaries of Huntsman Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“Huntsman”).

 

2



 

As used in this Agreement, the “separation” refers to the (i) the separation of the Pigments & Additives business from Huntsman’s other businesses, including the transfer by Huntsman and its subsidiaries to the Company of substantially all of the assets and liabilities related to the Pigments & Additives business and (ii) the execution on or prior to the Closing Time (as defined below) of the separation agreement and other agreements by the Company and Huntsman set forth in Schedule E hereto (collectively, the “Separation Agreements”). The Separation Agreements and this Agreement are referred to in this Agreement collectively as the “Transaction Agreements.” As used herein, unless the context otherwise requires, (1) prior to the consummation of the separation, references to the “Company” shall be deemed to be references to Venator Materials PLC and its subsidiaries, and the Pigments & Additives business segment of Huntsman, and (2) after the consummation of the separation, references to the “Company” shall be deemed to be references to Venator Materials PLC and its subsidiaries, only.

 

SECTION 1.                             Representations and Warranties .

 

(a)                                  Representations and Warranties by the Company .  The Company represents and warrants to each Underwriter as of the date hereof, the Applicable Time, the Closing Time (as defined below) and any Date of Delivery (as defined below), after giving effect to the separation, as applicable, and agrees with each Underwriter, as follows:

 

(i)                                      Registration Statement and Prospectuses .  Each of the Registration Statement and any amendment thereto has become effective under the 1933 Act.  No stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any post-effective amendment thereto has been issued under the 1933 Act, no order preventing or suspending the use of any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus has been issued and no proceedings for any of those purposes have been instituted or are pending or, to the Company’s knowledge, contemplated.  The Company has complied with each request (if any) from the Commission for additional information.

 

Each of the Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto, at the time it became effective, complied in all material respects with the requirements of the 1933 Act and the 1933 Act Regulations.  Each preliminary prospectus, the Prospectus and any amendment or supplement thereto, at the time each was filed with the Commission, complied in all material respects with the requirements of the 1933 Act and the 1933 Act Regulations.  Each preliminary prospectus delivered to the Underwriters for use in connection with this offering and the Prospectus was or will be identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T.

 

(ii)                                   Accurate Disclosure .  Neither the Registration Statement nor any post-effective amendment thereto, at its effective time, at the Closing Time or at any Date of Delivery, contained, contains or will contain an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted, omits or will omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading.  As of the Applicable Time, neither (A) the General Disclosure Package nor (B) any individual Issuer Limited Use Free Writing Prospectus, when considered together with the General Disclosure Package, included, includes or will include an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted, omits or will omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.  Neither the Prospectus nor any amendment or supplement thereto, as of its issue date, at the time of any filing with the Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b), at the Closing Time or at any Date of Delivery, included, includes or will include an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted, omits or will omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.

 

3



 

The representations and warranties in this subsection shall not apply to statements in or omissions from the Registration Statement (or any post-effective amendment thereto), the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto) made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished to the Company by any Underwriter through the Representatives expressly for use therein.  For purposes of this Agreement, the only information so furnished shall be the information in the first paragraph under the heading “Underwriting—Commissions and Discounts,” the information in the second, third and fourth paragraphs under the heading “Underwriting—Price Stabilization, Short Positions and Penalty Bids” and the information under the heading “Underwriting—Electronic Distribution” in each case contained in the Prospectus (collectively, the “Underwriter Information”).

 

(iii)                                Issuer Free Writing Prospectuses .  No Issuer Free Writing Prospectus conflicts or will conflict with the information contained in the Registration Statement or the Prospectus, and any preliminary or other prospectus deemed to be a part thereof that has not been superseded or modified.  The Company has made available a Bona Fide Electronic Road Show in compliance with Rule 433(d)(8)(ii) such that no filing of any “road show” (as defined in Rule 433(h)) is required in connection with the offering of the Securities.

 

(iv)                               Company Not Ineligible Issuer .  At the time of filing the Registration Statement and any post-effective amendment thereto, at the earliest time thereafter that the Company or another offering participant made a bona fide offer (within the meaning of Rule 164(h)(2) of the 1933 Act Regulations) of the Securities and at the date hereof, the Company was not and is not an “ineligible issuer,” as defined in Rule 405, without taking account of any determination by the Commission pursuant to Rule 405 that it is not necessary that the Company be considered an ineligible issuer.

 

(v)                                  Independent Accountants .  Deloitte & Touche LLP, which has certified the financial statements and supporting schedules included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, is an independent registered public accounting firm with respect to the Company as required by the 1933 Act, the 1933 Act Regulations and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board.

 

(vi)                               Financial Statements; Non-GAAP Financial Measures .  The historical consolidated financial statements of the Predecessor (comprised of the combined operations and legal entities of the Pigments & Additives division of Huntsman Corporation) (the “Predecessor”), the Company and the Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, together with the related schedules and notes, present fairly in all material respects the financial position, results of operations and cash flows of the Predecessor, the Company and the Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. (as defined therein), as applicable, at the dates and for the periods to which they relate and have been prepared in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”), applied on a consistent basis, except as otherwise stated therein.  The supporting schedules, if any, present fairly in all material respects in accordance with GAAP the information required to be stated therein.  The selected financial data and the summary financial information included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus present fairly in all material respects the information shown therein and have been compiled on a basis consistent with that of the audited financial statements included therein, except in the case of any “non-GAAP financial measures” (as such term is defined by the rules and regulations of the Commission). The pro forma financial statements and the related notes thereto included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus present fairly in all

 

4



 

material respects the information shown therein, have been prepared in accordance with the Commission’s rules and guidelines with respect to pro forma financial statements and have been properly compiled on the bases described therein, and the assumptions used in the preparation thereof are reasonable and the adjustments used therein are appropriate to give effect to the transactions and circumstances referred to therein.  The assumptions used in the as adjusted financial information included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus are reasonable, and the adjustments used therein are appropriate to give effect to the transactions or circumstances referred to therein.  Except as included therein, no historical or pro forma financial statements or supporting schedules are required to be included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus under the 1933 Act or the 1933 Act Regulations.  All disclosures contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus regarding “non-GAAP financial measures” (as such term is defined by the rules and regulations of the Commission) comply in all material respects with Regulation G of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “1934 Act”), and Item 10 of Regulation S-K of the 1933 Act, to the extent applicable.

 

(vii)                            No Material Adverse Change in Business .  Except as otherwise stated therein, since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus, (A) there has been no material adverse change in the general affairs, management, business, condition (financial or otherwise), prospects or results of operations of the Company and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole (any such event, a “Material Adverse Effect”), (B) there have been no transactions entered into by the Company or any of its subsidiaries, other than those in the ordinary course of business, which are material with respect to the Company and its subsidiaries considered as one enterprise, and (C) there has been no dividend or distribution of any kind declared, paid or made by the Company on any class of its share capital.

 

(viii)                         Good Standing of the Company .  The Company has been duly formed and is validly existing as a public limited company in good standing organized under the laws of England and Wales and has requisite corporate power and authority to own its properties and conduct its business as now conducted and as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and to enter into and perform its obligations under the Transaction Agreements; and the Company has been duly qualified as a foreign corporation for the transaction of business and is in good standing or other equivalent local law status in each jurisdiction where the ownership or leasing of its properties or the conduct of business requires such qualification, except where the failure to be so qualified or in good standing or other equivalent local law status would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(ix)                               Good Standing of Subsidiaries .  Each subsidiary listed on Schedule G hereto (each, a “Subsidiary” and, collectively, the “Subsidiaries”) has been duly organized and is validly existing in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation or organization, has requisite corporate or similar power and authority to own its properties and conduct its business as now conducted and as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and has been duly qualified to transact business and is in good standing in each jurisdiction where the ownership or leasing of its properties or the conduct of business requires such qualification, except where the failure to be so qualified or in good standing or other equivalent local law status would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as otherwise disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, all of the outstanding membership interests, shares of capital stock or other ownership interests, as the case may be, of the Subsidiaries have

 

5



 

been duly authorized and validly issued, are fully paid and non-assessable (except, with respect to any Subsidiary that is a limited liability company, (i) that a member may be obligated to make contributions to such Subsidiary that such member has agreed to make, (ii) that a member may be obligated to repay funds wrongfully distributed to it or (iii) as otherwise provided by the limited liability company agreement for such limited liability company) and were not issued in violation of any preemptive or similar rights; and, except as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, all of the outstanding membership interests, shares of capital stock or other ownership interests, as the case may be, of the Subsidiaries which are owned by the Company are owned free and clear of all liens, encumbrances, equities and claims other than (x) the security interests granted in connection with the “senior credit facilities” (as defined in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and as amended, modified, waived or supplemented from time to time) and (y) the security interests granted under the Huntsman International credit facility.  The only subsidiaries of the Company as of the completion of the offering are the subsidiaries listed on Exhibit 21 to the Registration Statement.

 

(x)                                  Capitalization .  The Company has an authorized capitalization as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus in the column entitled “Actual” under the caption “Capitalization” (except for subsequent issuances, if any, pursuant to this Agreement, pursuant to reservations, agreements or employee benefit plans referred to in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus or pursuant to the exercise of convertible securities or options referred to in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus).  The outstanding share capital of the Company, including the Securities to be purchased by the Underwriters from the Selling Shareholders, have been duly authorized and validly issued in accordance with the articles of association of the Company (the “Company Articles”) and are fully paid (to the extent required under the Company Articles).  None of the outstanding share capital of the Company, including the Securities to be purchased by the Underwriters from the Selling Shareholders, were issued in violation of the preemptive or other similar rights of any shareholder of the Company.

 

(xi)                               Authorization of Agreement .  This Agreement has been duly and validly authorized, executed and delivered by the Company.

 

(xii)                            Authorization of Separation Agreements .  Each of the Separation Agreements to which the Company is a party has been duly authorized, executed and delivered by the Company and constitutes a valid and legally binding obligation of the Company, enforceable against the Company in accordance with its terms, subject to bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors’ rights and to general equity principles.

 

(xiii)                         Descriptions of the Separation Agreements .  Each Separation Agreement conforms in all material respects to the description thereof contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus.

 

(xiv)                        Authorization and Description of Securities .  The Ordinary Shares conform to all statements relating thereto contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and such description conforms in all material respects to the rights set forth in the instruments defining the same.  No holder of Securities will be subject to personal liability by reason of being such a holder.

 

6



 

(xv)                           Registration Rights .  There are no persons with registration rights or other similar rights to have any securities registered for sale pursuant to the Registration Statement or otherwise registered for sale or sold by the Company under the 1933 Act pursuant to this Agreement, other than those rights that have been disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and have been waived.

 

(xvi)                        Absence of Violations, Defaults and Conflicts .  Neither the Company nor any of its Subsidiaries is (A) in violation of its certificate of incorporation or bylaws (or similar organizational document), (B) in breach or violation of any statute, judgment, decree, order, rule or regulation applicable to it or any of its properties or assets or (C) in breach or default under (nor has any event occurred which, with notice or passage of time or both, would constitute a default under) or in violation of any of the terms of provisions of any indenture, mortgage, deed of trust, loan agreement, note, lease, license, franchise agreement, permit, certificate, contract or other agreement or instrument to which it is a party or to which any of their respective properties or assets are subject (collectively, “Contracts”), except, in the case of (B) and (C), for any such breach, default, violation or event (i) which would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect or (ii) which has been waived by the other party.  The execution, delivery and performance by the Company and the Subsidiaries, to the extent each is a party thereto, of each of the Transaction Agreements and the consummation by the Company and the Subsidiaries of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, and the fulfillment of the terms hereof and thereof, will not conflict with or constitute or result in a breach of or a default under (or an event which with notice or passage of time or both would constitute a default under) or violation of any of (A) the terms or provisions of any Contract, except for any such conflict, breach, violation, default or event which has been waived by the other party, (B) the certificate of incorporation or bylaws (or similar organizational document) of the Company or its Subsidiaries or (C) (assuming compliance with all applicable federal and state securities or “Blue Sky” laws) any statute, judgment, decree, order, rule or regulation of any court or governmental agency or body applicable to the Company or the Subsidiaries or any of their respective properties or assets (each, a “Governmental Entity”), except, in the case of clause (A) or (C), for any such conflict, breach or violation which would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(xvii)                     Absence of Labor Dispute .  To the knowledge of the Company and its subsidiaries, except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, there is no strike, labor dispute, slowdown or work stoppage with the employees of the Company and its subsidiaries which is pending or threatened, except any such strike, labor dispute, slowdown or work stoppage that would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(xviii)                  Absence of Proceedings .  Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, there is not pending or, to the best of the Company’s knowledge, threatened, any action, suit, proceeding, inquiry or investigation to which the Company or any of its subsidiaries is a party, or to which any of their respective properties or assets are subject before or brought by any court, arbitrator or Governmental Entity, which, if determined adversely to the Company or any such subsidiary, would have a Material Adverse Effect, or which seeks to restrain, enjoin, prevent the consummation of or otherwise challenge the (A) issuance or sale of the Securities to be sold hereunder or (B) consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Agreements.

 

(xix)                        Accuracy of Exhibits .  There are no contracts or documents which are required to be described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus or

 

7



 

to be filed as exhibits to the Registration Statement which have not been so described and filed as required.

 

(xx)                           Absence of Further Requirements .  No consent, approval, authorization or order of any court or Governmental Entity, or third party is required for the performance of this Agreement by the Company and the Subsidiaries or the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Agreements to which they are a party, except (A) such as shall have been obtained or as may be required under the 1933 Act, the 1933 Act Regulations, the 1934 Act, the rules of the New York Stock Exchange, state securities or “Blue Sky” laws or the rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (“FINRA”), (B) such as may be required under state securities or “Blue Sky” laws in connection with the purchase and resale of the Securities or (C) such consents, which if not obtained would not reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, materially and adversely affect the offering of the Securities.

 

(xxi)                        Possession of Licenses and Permits .  Except with respect to Environmental Laws, each of the Company and its subsidiaries possesses all licenses, permits, certifications, consents, orders, approvals and other authorizations from, and has made or will have made all declarations and filings with, all federal, state, local and other governmental authorities, all self-regulating organizations and all courts and other tribunals, presently required to necessary to own or lease, as the case may be, and to operate its properties and to carry on its business as now or proposed to be conducted as set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus (“Permits”), except where the lack thereof would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect. Each of the Company and its subsidiaries has fulfilled and performed all its obligations with respect to such Permits, and no event has occurred which allows, or after notice or lapse of time would allow, revocation or termination thereof or result in any other impairment of the rights of the holder of any such Permit except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.  Neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has received any notice of any proceeding relating to the revocation or modification of any such Permit, except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus or except where such revocation or modification would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(xxii)                     Title to Property .  Each of the Company and its subsidiaries has good title to all real property and personal property described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus as being owned by it and good and marketable title to a leasehold estate in the real and personal property described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus as being leased by it free and clear of all liens, charges, encumbrances or restrictions, except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus and other than the security interests granted in connection with the senior credit facilities and the security interest granted under the Huntsman International LLC credit facility, or to the extent the failure to have such title or the existence of such liens, charges, encumbrances or restrictions would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, all leases, contracts and agreements to which the Company or any subsidiary is a party or by which it is bound are valid and enforceable against the Company or such subsidiary, and to the knowledge of the Company are valid and enforceable against the other party or parties thereto (except that the enforcement thereof may be subject to the Enforceability Exceptions) and are in full force and effect with only such exceptions as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

8



 

(xxiii)                  Possession of Intellectual Property .  Each of the Company and  its subsidiaries owns or possesses adequate licenses or other rights to use all patents, trademarks, service marks, trade names, copyrights, trade secrets, and know-how (collectively, the “Intellectual Property”) necessary to conduct the businesses as now or proposed to be operated by it as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, except where the failure to own or possess such Intellectual Property would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, and neither the Company nor any of its subsidiaries has received any notice of infringement of or conflict with (and knows of no such infringement of or conflict with) asserted rights of others with respect to any Intellectual Property which, if such assertion of infringement or conflict were sustained, would, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(xxiv)                 Environmental Laws .  Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus or as would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, (A) each of the Company and the Subsidiaries is in compliance with, and is not subject to liability under, applicable Environmental Laws, (B) each of the Company and the Subsidiaries has made all filings and provided all notices required under any applicable Environmental Law, and is in compliance with all Permits required under any applicable Environmental Laws, (C) there is no civil, criminal or administrative action, suit, demand, claim, hearing, notice of violation, investigation, proceeding, notice or demand letter or request for information pending or, to the knowledge of the Company, threatened against the Company or any of the Subsidiaries under any Environmental Law, (D) no lien, charge, encumbrance or restriction has been recorded under any Environmental Law with respect to any assets, facility or property owned, operated, leased or controlled by the Company or any of the Subsidiaries, (E) neither the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries has received notice that it has been identified as a potentially responsible party under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act of 1980, as amended (“CERCLA”), or any comparable non-U.S. or state law, (F) no property or facility of the Company or any of the Subsidiaries is listed or proposed for listing on the National Priorities List under CERCLA or on any comparable list maintained by any non-U.S., state or local governmental authority. For purposes of this Agreement, “Environmental Laws” means all applicable federal, state and local laws or regulations, codes, orders, decrees, judgments or injunctions issued, promulgated, approved or entered thereunder, relating to pollution or protection of worker health and safety or the environment, including, without limitation, laws relating to (i) emissions, discharges, releases or threatened releases of hazardous materials into the environment (including, without limitation, ambient air, surface water, groundwater, land surface or subsurface strata), (ii) the manufacture, processing, distribution, use, generation, treatment, storage, disposal, transport, import, export, registration, evaluation, authorization, restriction, or handling of, or exposure to, hazardous or toxic materials, substances or chemicals and (iii) underground and aboveground storage tanks, and related piping, and emissions, discharges, releases or threatened releases therefrom.

 

(xxv)                    Accounting Controls .  Each of the Company and its subsidiaries (A) makes and keeps accurate books and records, (B) maintains internal accounting controls which provide reasonable assurance that transactions are executed in accordance with management’s authorization, transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of its financial statements and to maintain accountability for its assets, (C) permits access to its assets only in accordance with management’s authorization and (D) compares the reported accountability for its assets with existing assets at reasonable intervals and takes appropriate action with respect to any differences. Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, as of the date of the most recent balance sheet of the Company reviewed or

 

9


 

audited by Deloitte & Touche LLP, there were no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in the internal controls of the Company.

 

(xxvi)                 Compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act.   The Company has taken all necessary actions to ensure that, upon the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, it will be in compliance in all material respects with all provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and all rules and regulations promulgated thereunder or implementing the provisions thereof (the “Sarbanes-Oxley Act”) that are then in effect and with which the Company is required to comply as of the effectiveness of the Registration Statement, and is actively taking steps to ensure that it will be in material compliance with other provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act not currently in effect, upon the effectiveness of such provisions, or which will become applicable to the Company at all times after the effectiveness of the Registration Statement.

 

(xxvii)              Payment of Taxes .  Each of the Company and its subsidiaries has filed all necessary United States federal, state and local income and franchise tax returns and income and sales tax returns outside the United States, except where the failure to so file such returns would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect, and has paid all material taxes due and payable (whether or not shown as due thereon) other than taxes which the Company or a subsidiary is contesting in good faith and for which the Company or such subsidiary has provided adequate reserves, except where the failure to pay such taxes would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.  Other than tax deficiencies which the Company or a subsidiary is contesting in good faith and for which the Company or such subsidiary has provided adequate reserves, there is no tax deficiency that has been asserted against the Company or any subsidiary that would have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(xxviii)           ERISA.   To the knowledge of the Company, neither the Company nor any of the Subsidiaries has incurred any liability for any prohibited transaction (as defined in Section 406 of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ERISA”)) or any complete or partial withdrawal liability under Title IV of ERISA with respect to any pension, profit sharing or other plan which is subject to ERISA, to which the Company or any Subsidiary makes or within the preceding six years from the date hereof has made a contribution and in which any employee of the Company or any Subsidiary is or has been a participant which liability would, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect. With respect to such plans, the Company and the Subsidiaries are in compliance in all material respects with all applicable provisions of ERISA, except such noncompliance which would not, individually or in the aggregate, have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(xxix)                 Insurance .  Each of the Company and its subsidiaries carries or is entitled to the benefits of insurance, with financially sound and reputable insurers, in such amounts and covering such risks as is generally maintained by companies of established repute engaged in the same or similar business, and all such insurance is in full force and effect.  The Company has no reason to believe that it or any of its subsidiaries will not be able (A) to renew its existing insurance coverage as and when such policies expire or (B) to obtain comparable coverage from similar institutions as may be necessary or appropriate to conduct its business as now conducted and at a cost that would not reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(xxx)                    Investment Company Act .  The Company is not required, and after giving effect to the offer and sale of the Securities as herein contemplated and the application of the net proceeds therefrom as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package

 

10



 

and the Prospectus will not be required, to register as an “investment company” under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”).

 

(xxxi)                 Absence of Manipulation .  Neither the Company nor, to the knowledge of the Company, any of its Affiliates (as defined in Rule 501(b) of Regulation D under the 1933 Act) (x) prior to the date hereof, has taken any action which has constituted or (y) will take any action which is designed to or which has constituted or which might have been expected to cause or result in stabilization or manipulation of the price of any security of the Company in connection with the offering of the Securities in violation of Regulation M under the 1934 Act.

 

(xxxii)              Anti-Corruption Laws .  None of the Company or its subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of the Company, any director, officer, agent, employee, affiliate or other person associated with or acting on behalf of the Company or its subsidiaries has (A) used any corporate funds for any unlawful contribution, gift, entertainment or other unlawful expense relating to political activity, (B) made or taken an act in furtherance of an offer, promise or authorization of any direct or indirect unlawful payment or benefit to any foreign or domestic government official or employee, including of any government-owned or controlled entity or of a public international organization, or any person acting in an official capacity for or on behalf of any of the foregoing, or any political party or party official or candidate for political office, (C) violated or is in violation of any provision of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977, as amended, or any applicable law or regulation implementing the OECD Convention on Combatting Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions, or committed an offence under the Bribery Act 2010 of the United Kingdom, or any other applicable anti-bribery or anti-corruption law, or (D) made, offered, agreed, requested or taken an act in furtherance of any unlawful bribe or other unlawful benefit, including, without limitation, any rebate, payoff, influence payment, kickback or other unlawful payment.  The Company and its subsidiaries have instituted, maintain and enforce, and will continue to maintain and enforce, policies and procedures designed to promote and ensure compliance with all applicable anti-bribery and anti-corruption laws.

 

(xxxiii)           Money Laundering Laws .  The operations of the Company and its subsidiaries are and have been conducted at all times in compliance with applicable financial recordkeeping and reporting requirements, including the Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act of 1970, as amended, the applicable money laundering statutes of all jurisdictions where the Company or any of its subsidiaries conducts business, the rules and regulations thereunder and any related or similar rules, regulations or guidelines, issued, administered or enforced by any governmental agency (collectively, the “Anti-Money Laundering Laws”), and no action, suit or proceeding by or before any court or governmental agency, authority or body or any arbitrator involving the Company or its subsidiaries with respect to the Anti-Money Laundering Laws is pending or, to the knowledge of the Company, threatened.

 

(xxxiv)          OFAC .  None of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of the Company, any director, officer, agent, employee or affiliate of the Company or its subsidiaries is currently subject to any sanctions administered or enforced by the U.S. government (including, without limitation, the Office of Foreign Asset Control of the U.S. Department of the Treasury (“OFAC”) or the U.S. Department of State and including, without limitation, the designation as a “specially designated national” or “blocked person”), the United Nations Security Council (“UNSC”), the European Union, Her Majesty’s Treasury (“HMT”) or other relevant sanctions authority (collectively, “Sanctions”), nor is the Company or any of its subsidiaries located, organized or resident in a country or territory that is the subject or target of Sanctions, including, without limitation, Crimea, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Sudan or Syria (each, a Sanctioned

 

11



 

Country”).  For the past three years, the Company and its subsidiaries have not knowingly engaged in, are not now knowingly engaged in and will not engage in any dealings or transactions with any person that at the time of the dealing or transaction is or was the subject or the target of applicable Sanctions or with any Sanctioned Country.  The representations and warranties made under this (xxxiv) will not apply if and to the extent that the expression of, or compliance with, or receipt and acceptance of, the representations would breach the German Foreign Trade Ordinance ( Verordnung zur Durchführung des Außenwirtschaftsgesetzes ), EU Regulation (EC) 2271/96 or any similar applicable German anti-boycott law or regulation.

 

(xxxv)             Lending Relationship Except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company (i) does not have any material lending or other relationship with any bank or lending affiliate of any Underwriter and (ii) will not receive any of the proceeds from the sale of the Securities.

 

(xxxvi)          Statistical and Market-Related Data .  The statistical and market-related data included in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus are based on or derived from sources which the Company believes to be reliable and, to the extent required, the Company has obtained the written consent to the use of such data from such sources.

 

(xxxvii)       Passive Foreign Investment Company .  Subject to the qualifications, limitations and assumptions set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company does not expect to be treated as a passive foreign investment company (“PFIC”) within the meaning of Section 1297 of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), for its current taxable year or for future taxable years.

 

(xxxviii)                Federal Tax Treatment .  Subject to the qualifications, limitations and assumptions set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, the Company expects to be treated as a foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, taking into account Section 7874 of the Code.

 

(xxxix)          Distributions by Subsidiaries .  Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, (A) no subsidiary of the Company is currently prohibited, directly or indirectly, from paying any dividends to the Company, from making any other distributions on such subsidiary’s ordinary shares or share capital, from repaying the Company any loans or advances to such subsidiary from the Company or from transferring any of such subsidiary’s property or assets to the Company or any other subsidiary of the Company and (B) no governmental or regulatory approvals, consents, authorizations, orders, licenses, registrations, clearances or qualifications are currently required in England and Wales or any political subdivisions of the government of England and Wales in order for the Company to pay dividends or other distributions declared by the Company to the holders of Ordinary Shares.

 

(xl)                               [No Qualification Required .  It is not necessary under the laws of England and Wales that any Underwriter be licensed, qualified or entitled to carry on business in England and Wales to enable such Underwriter to enforce its respective rights under this Agreement or the performance of the terms and conditions of this Agreement outside of England and Wales.  The Underwriters will not be deemed resident, domiciled, to be carrying on business or subject to taxation in England and Wales solely by reason of the issuance, acceptance, delivery, performance or enforcement of this Agreement.]

 

(xli)                            No Transfer Taxes .  Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, there are no transfer taxes, stamp duties, capital

 

12



 

duties, stamp duty reserve tax or other similar fees or charges under the laws of the United Kingdom, or any political subdivision of the government of the United Kingdom, required to be paid by or on behalf of the Underwriters, the Company or its subsidiaries in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the grant and/or exercise of the option to purchase Option Securities, the sale by the Selling Shareholders of the Securities to the Underwriters, the offer, sale and delivery by the Underwriters of the Securities, and the deposit of the Securities into DTC, in each case as contemplated by this Agreement.

 

(xlii)                         No Withholding.   All dividends and other distributions declared and payable on the Ordinary Shares by the Company are not subject to withholding under the current laws and regulations of the United Kingdom, in each case except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus.

 

(xliii)                      Proper Legal Form .  Upon execution and delivery, this Agreement will be in proper legal form under the laws of England and Wales for the enforcement hereof against the Company, except to the extent enforcement may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of general applicability relating to or affecting creditors’ rights and general equity principles and, with respect to any indemnification or contribution provision, limited by the federal and state securities laws;, and to ensure the legality, validity, enforceability, priority or admissibility in evidence of this Agreement it is not necessary that this Agreement or any other document related hereto be filed, registered or recorded with or executed or notarized before, any governmental or regulatory authority or agency of England and Wales.

 

(xliv)                     Compliance with Foreign Securities Laws .  The Company and its subsidiaries are in material compliance with all applicable securities rules and regulations under the laws of England and Wales.

 

(xlv)                        No Immunity .  None of the Company or its subsidiaries or any of their properties or assets has any immunity from the jurisdiction of any court or from any legal process (whether through service or notice, attachment prior to judgment, attachment in aid of execution or otherwise) under the laws of England and Wales.

 

(xlvi)                     Validity of Choice of Law .  The choice of the law of the State of New York as the governing law of this Agreement is a valid choice of law under the laws of England and Wales and, except as disclosed in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, will be honored by courts in England and Wales.  The Company has the power to submit, and pursuant to Section 18 of this Agreement, has legally, validly, effectively and irrevocably submitted, to the personal jurisdiction of (i) the federal courts of the United States of America located in the City and County of New York, Borough of Manhattan or (ii) the courts of the State of New York located in the City and County of New York, Borough of Manhattan (collectively, the “Specified Courts”), and the Company has legally, validly, effectively and irrevocably designated, appointed and authorized an agent for service of process in any action arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the Securities in any New York federal or state court.

 

(xlvii)                  Submission to Jurisdiction .  The submission by the Company in Section 18 of this Agreement to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Specified Courts constitutes a valid and legally binding submission of the Company and service of process made in the manner set forth in this Agreement will be effective to confer valid personal jurisdiction over the Company for purposes of proceedings in such courts under the laws of England and Wales.

 

13



 

(xlviii)               Final Judgment .  Any final judgment for a fixed or determined sum of money rendered by a Specified Court having jurisdiction under its own laws in respect of any suit, action or proceeding against the Company or its subsidiaries based upon any of the Transaction Agreements would be declared enforceable against the Company or such subsidiary by the courts of the United Kingdom, without reconsideration or reexamination of the merits; provided that (i) adequate service of process has been effected and the defendant has had a reasonable opportunity to be heard, (ii) such judgments or the enforcement thereof are not contrary to the law, public policy, security or sovereignty of England and Wales, (iii) such judgments were not obtained by fraudulent means and do not conflict with any other valid judgment in the same matter between the same parties; (iv) an action between the same parties in the same matter is not pending in any Irish court at the time the lawsuit is instituted in the foreign court; and (v) the procedural rules of the court giving the judgment have been observed.

 

(xlix)                     Taxation .  The statements set forth in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus under the caption “Material Tax Considerations” insofar as they purport to summarize the provisions of the laws and documents referred to therein, are accurate, complete and fair in all material respects.

 

(l)                                      Tax Residence .  The Company is and has been at all times resident for all tax purposes (including any double tax treaty) only in the United Kingdom and is not, and has not been treated, as resident in any other jurisdiction for any tax purpose (including any double tax treaty), other than through the ownership of “qualified business units” that are treated as non-United Kingdom residents pursuant to Section 988(a)(3)(B)(ii) of the Code for purposes of determining the source of foreign currency gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes.

 

(b)                                  Representations and Warranties by the Selling Shareholders .  The Selling Shareholders represent and warrant to each Underwriter as of the date hereof, as of the Applicable Time, as of the Closing Time and, if the Selling Shareholders are selling Option Securities on a Date of Delivery, as of each such Date of Delivery, after giving effect to the separation, as applicable, and agrees with each Underwriter, as follows:

 

(i)                                      Accurate Disclosure .  Neither the General Disclosure Package nor the Prospectus or any amendments or supplements thereto includes any untrue statement of a material fact or omits to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading, provided that such representations and warranties set forth in this subsection (b)(i) apply only to statements or omissions made in reliance upon and in conformity with information relating to the Selling Shareholders furnished in writing by or on behalf of the Selling Shareholders to the Company expressly for use in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus or any other Issuer Free Writing Prospectus or any amendment or supplement thereto; provided that it is agreed that such information furnished by the Selling Shareholders to the Company consists only of (A) the legal name, address and the number of shares of Ordinary Shares owned by the Selling Shareholders before and after the offering and (B) the other information with respect to the Selling Shareholders (excluding percentages) which appear in the table (and corresponding footnotes) under the caption “Security Ownership of Management and Selling Shareholders,” (collectively, the “Selling Shareholder Information”); no Selling Shareholder is prompted to sell the Securities to be sold by such Selling Shareholder hereunder by any information concerning the Company or any subsidiary of the Company which is not set forth in the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus.

 

14



 

(ii)                                   Authorization of this Agreement .  This Agreement has been duly and validly authorized, executed and delivered by or on behalf of each Selling Shareholder.

 

(iii)                                Noncontravention .  The execution, delivery and performance by the Selling Shareholders, to the extent each is a party thereto, of each of the Transaction Agreements and the consummation by the Selling Shareholders of the transactions contemplated hereby and thereby, and the fulfillment of the terms hereof and thereof, will not conflict with or constitute or result in a breach of or a default under (or an event which with notice of passage of time or both would constitute a default under, or result in the creation or imposition of any lien, charge or encumbrance upon the Securities to be sold by the Selling Shareholder) or violation of any of (A) the terms or provisions of any Contract, except for any such conflict, breach, violation, default or event which has been waived by the other party, (B) the certificate of incorporation or bylaws (or similar organizational document) of the Selling Shareholders or (C) (assuming compliance with all applicable federal and state securities of “Blue Sky” laws) and statute, judgment, decree, order, rule or regulation of any court or governmental agency or body applicable to a Selling Shareholder or any of their respective properties or assets, except, in the case of clause (A) and (C), for any such conflict, breach or violation which would not reasonably be expected to materially and adversely affect the consummation of the offering of the Securities.

 

(v)                                  Valid Title .  Each Selling Shareholder has, and at the Closing Time and at each Date of Delivery, will have, valid title to the Securities to be sold by such Selling Shareholder free and clear of all security interests, claims, liens, equities or other encumbrances and the legal right and power, and all authorization and approval required by law, to enter into this Agreement and to sell, transfer and deliver the Securities to be sold by such Selling Shareholder or a valid security entitlement in respect of such Securities.

 

(vi)                               Delivery of Securities .  Upon payment of the purchase price for the Securities to be sold by the Selling Shareholders pursuant to this Agreement, delivery (within the meaning of Section 8-301 of the UCC) of such Securities, as directed by the Underwriters, to Cede & Co. (“Cede”) or such other nominee as may be designated by The Depository Trust Company (“DTC”), registration of such Securities in the name of Cede or such other nominee, and the crediting of such Securities on the books of DTC to securities accounts (within the meaning of Section 8-501(a) of the UCC) of the Underwriters (assuming that neither DTC nor any such Underwriter has notice of any “adverse claim,” within the meaning of Section 8-105 of the Uniform Commercial Code then in effect in the State of New York (“UCC”), to such Securities), (A) under Section 8-501 of the UCC, the Underwriters will acquire a valid “security entitlement” in respect of such Securities and (B) no action (whether framed in conversion, replevin, constructive trust, equitable lien, or other theory) based on any “adverse claim,” within the meaning of Section 8-102 of the UCC, to such Securities may be asserted against the Underwriters with respect to such security entitlement; for purposes of this representation, the Selling Shareholders may assume that when such payment, delivery and crediting occur, (I) such Securities will have been registered in the name of Cede or another nominee designated by DTC, in each case on the Company’s share registry in accordance with the Company Articles and applicable law, (II) DTC will be registered as a “clearing corporation,” within the meaning of Section 8-102 of the UCC, (III) appropriate entries to the accounts of the several Underwriters on the records of DTC will have been made pursuant to the UCC, (IV) to the extent DTC, or any other securities intermediary which acts as “clearing corporation” with respect to the Securities, maintains any “financial asset” (as defined in Section 8-102(a)(9) of the UCC in a clearing corporation pursuant to Section 8-111 of the UCC, the rules of such clearing corporation may affect the rights of DTC or such securities intermediaries and the ownership interest of the Underwriters, (V) claims of creditors of DTC or any other securities intermediary or clearing

 

15



 

corporation may be given priority to the extent set forth in Section 8-511(b) and 8-511(c) of the UCC, (VI) if at any time DTC or another securities intermediary does not have sufficient Securities to satisfy claims of all of its entitlement holders with respect thereto then all holders will share pro rata in the Securities then held by DTC or such securities intermediary and (VII) each account agreement between each underwriter and DTC governing such underwriter’s securities account expressly provides that such account agreement is governed by the laws of the State of New York.

 

(vii)                            Absence of Manipulation .  None of the Selling Shareholders (x) prior to the date hereof, has taken any action which has constituted or (y) will take any action which is designed to or which has constituted or which might have been expected to cause or result in stabilization or manipulation of the price of any security of the Company in connection with the offering of the Securities in violation of Regulation M under the 1934 Act.

 

(viii)                         Absence of Further Requirements .  No consent, approval, authorization or order of any court or governmental agency or body applicable to a Selling Shareholder or any of their respective properties or assets, or third party is required for the performance of this Agreement by the Selling Shareholders or the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the Transaction Agreements to which a Selling Shareholders is a party, except (A) such as shall have been obtained or as may be required under the 1933 Act, the 1933 Act Regulations, the 1934 Act, the rules of the New York Stock Exchange, state securities or “Blue Sky” laws or the rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, Inc. (“FINRA”), (B) such as may be required under state securities or “Blue Sky” laws in connection with the purchase and resale of the Securities or (C) such consents which, if not obtained, would not reasonably be expected to, individually or in the aggregate, materially and adversely affect the offering of the Securities.

 

(ix)                               No Registration or Other Similar Rights . Except as described in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, no Selling Shareholder has any registration or other similar rights to have any equity or debt securities registered for sale by the Company under the Registration Statement or included in the offering contemplated by this Agreement.

 

(x)                                  No Free Writing Prospectuses .  No Selling Shareholder has prepared or had prepared on its behalf or used or referred to, any “free writing prospectus” (as defined in Rule 405), and has not distributed any written materials in connection with the offer or sale of the Securities.

 

(xi)                               No Association with FINRA .  No Selling Shareholder nor any of their respective affiliates directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, or is controlled by, or is under common control with any member firm of FINRA or is a person associated with a member (within the meaning of the FINRA By-Laws) of FINRA.

 

(xii)                            Independent Fiduciary .  No Selling Shareholder is (A) an employee benefit plan subject to Title I of ERISA (B) a plan or account subject to Section 4975 of the Code or (C) an entity deemed to hold “plan assets” of any such plan or account under Section 3(42) of ERISA, 29 C.F.R. 2510.3-101, or otherwise.

 

(c)                                   Officer’s Certificates .  Any certificate signed by any officer of the Company or any of its subsidiaries delivered to the Representatives or to counsel for the Underwriters shall be deemed a representation and warranty by the Company and not by such officer in his or her personal capacity to each Underwriter as to the matters covered thereby; and any certificate signed by or on behalf of a Selling

 

16



 

Shareholder as such and delivered to the Representatives or to counsel for the Underwriters pursuant to the terms of this Agreement shall be deemed a representation and warranty by such Selling Shareholder and not by such officer in his or her personal capacity to the Underwriters as to the matters covered thereby.

 

SECTION 2.                             Sale and Delivery to Underwriters; Closing .

 

(a)                                  Initial Securities .  On the basis of the representations and warranties herein contained and subject to the terms and conditions herein set forth, each Selling Shareholder agrees to sell to each Underwriter, severally and not jointly, and each Underwriter, severally and not jointly, agrees to purchase from such Selling Shareholder, at the price per share set forth in Schedule A, that proportion of the number of Initial Securities set forth in Schedule B opposite the name of such Selling Shareholder which the number of Initial Securities set forth in Schedule A opposite the name of such Underwriter, plus any additional number of Initial Securities which such Underwriter may become obligated to purchase pursuant to the provisions of Section 11 hereof, bears to the total number of Initial Securities, subject, in each case, to such adjustments among the Underwriters as the Representatives in their sole discretion shall make to eliminate any sales or purchases of fractional shares. Delivery of the Initial Securities by the Selling Shareholders shall be made by way of the following steps: (i) the transfer of legal title to the Initial Securities from the CS Depositary Nominee to Cede (as nominee for DTC), (ii) the registration of the Initial Securities in the name of Cede, (iii) the crediting of such Initial Securities on the books of DTC to respective accounts of the Underwriters, and (iv) the cancellation of the depositary receipts representing the Initial Securities issued by GTU Ops Inc.

 

(b)                                  Option Securities .  In addition, on the basis of the representations and warranties herein contained and subject to the terms and conditions herein set forth, Huntsman Holdings hereby grants an option to the Underwriters, severally and not jointly, to purchase an aggregate of up to an additional [ · ] Ordinary Shares, as set forth in Schedule B, at the price per share set forth in Schedule A, less an amount per share equal to any dividends or distributions declared by the Company and payable on the Initial Securities but not payable on the Option Securities.  The option hereby granted may be exercised for 30 days after the date hereof and may be exercised in whole or in part at any time from time to time upon notice by the Representatives to Huntsman Holdings setting forth the number of Option Securities as to which the several Underwriters are then exercising the option and the time and date of payment and delivery for such Option Securities.  Any such time and date of delivery (a “Date of Delivery”) shall be determined by the Representatives, but shall not be later than seven full business days after the exercise of said option, nor in any event prior to the Closing Time.  If the option is exercised as to all or any portion of the Option Securities, each of the Underwriters, acting severally and not jointly, will purchase that proportion of the total number of Option Securities then being purchased which the number of Initial Securities set forth in Schedule A opposite the name of such Underwriter bears to the total number of Initial Securities, subject, in each case, to such adjustments as the Representatives in their sole discretion shall make to eliminate any sales or purchases of fractional shares. Delivery of the Option Securities by Huntsman Holdings shall be made by way of the following steps: (i) the transfer of legal title to the Initial Securities from the CS Depositary Nominee to Cede (as nominee for DTC), (ii) the registration of the Option Securities in the name of Cede, (iii) the crediting of such Option Securities on the books of DTC to respective accounts of the Underwriters, and (iv) the cancellation of the depositary receipts representing the Option Securities issued by GTU Ops Inc.

 

(c)                                   Payment .  Payment of the purchase price for, and delivery of certificates or security entitlements for, the Initial Securities shall be made at the offices of Shearman & Sterling LLP, 599 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York, or at such other place as shall be agreed upon by the Representatives and the Company and the Selling Shareholders, at 9:00 A.M. (New York City time) on the third (fourth, if the pricing occurs after 4:30 P.M. (New York City time) on any given day) business

 

17



 

day after the date hereof (unless postponed in accordance with the provisions of Section 11), or such other time not later than ten business days after such date as shall be agreed upon by the Representatives and the Company and the Selling Shareholders (such time and date of payment and delivery being herein called “Closing Time”).

 

In addition, in the event that any or all of the Option Securities are purchased by the Underwriters, payment of the purchase price for, and delivery of certificates or security entitlements for, such Option Securities shall be made at the above-mentioned offices, or at such other place as shall be agreed upon by the Representatives and the Company and the Selling Shareholders, on each Date of Delivery as specified in the notice from the Representatives to the Company and the Selling Shareholders.

 

Payment shall be made to each Selling Shareholder by wire transfer of immediately available funds to a bank account designated by such Selling Shareholder, against delivery to the Representatives for the respective accounts of the Underwriters of certificates or security entitlements for the Securities to be purchased by them.  It is understood that each Underwriter has authorized the Representatives, for its account, to accept delivery of, receipt for, and make payment of the purchase price for, the Initial Securities and the Option Securities, if any, which it has agreed to purchase.  The Representatives, individually and not as representatives of the Underwriters, may (but shall not be obligated to) make payment of the purchase price for the Initial Securities or the Option Securities, if any, to be purchased by any Underwriter whose funds have not been received by the Closing Time or the relevant Date of Delivery, as the case may be, but such payment shall not relieve such Underwriter from its obligations hereunder.

 

SECTION 3.                             Covenants of the Company and the Selling Shareholders .  The Company and each Selling Shareholder covenant with each Underwriter as follows:

 

(a)                                  Compliance with Securities Regulations and Commission Requests .  The Company, subject to Section 3(b), will comply with the requirements of Rule 430A, and will notify the Representatives immediately, and confirm the notice in writing, (i) when any post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement shall become effective or any amendment or supplement to the Prospectus shall have been filed, (ii) of the receipt of any comments from the Commission with respect to the Registration Statement, (iii) of any request by the Commission for any amendment to the Registration Statement or any amendment or supplement to the Prospectus or for additional information, (iv) of the issuance by the Commission of any stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any post-effective amendment or of any order preventing or suspending the use of any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus, or of the suspension of the qualification of the Securities for offering or sale in any jurisdiction, or of the initiation or threatening of any proceedings for any of such purposes or of any examination pursuant to Section 8(d) or 8(e) of the 1933 Act concerning the Registration Statement and (v) if the Company becomes the subject of a proceeding under Section 8A of the 1933 Act in connection with the offering of the Securities.  The Company will effect all filings required under Rule 424(b), in the manner and within the time period required by Rule 424(b) (without reliance on Rule 424(b)(8)), and will take such steps as it deems necessary to ascertain promptly whether the form of prospectus transmitted for filing under Rule 424(b) was received for filing by the Commission and, in the event that it was not, it will promptly file such prospectus.  The Company will make every reasonable effort to prevent the issuance of any stop order, prevention or suspension and, if any such order is issued, to obtain the lifting thereof as promptly as practicable.

 

(b)                                  Continued Compliance with Securities Laws .  The Company will comply with the 1933 Act and the 1933 Act Regulations so as to permit the completion of the distribution of the Securities as contemplated in this Agreement and in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus.  If at any time when a prospectus relating to the Securities is (or, but for the exception

 

18



 

afforded by Rule 172 of the 1933 Act Regulations (“Rule 172”), would be) required by the 1933 Act to be delivered in connection with sales of the Securities, any event shall occur or condition shall exist as a result of which it is necessary, in the opinion of counsel for the Underwriters or for the Company, to (i) amend the Registration Statement in order that the Registration Statement will not include an untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, (ii) amend or supplement the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus in order that the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus, as the case may be, will not include any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein not misleading in the light of the circumstances existing at the time it is delivered to a purchaser or (iii) amend the Registration Statement or amend or supplement the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus, as the case may be, in order to comply with the requirements of the 1933 Act or the 1933 Act Regulations, the Company will promptly (A) give the Representatives notice of such event, (B) prepare any amendment or supplement as may be necessary to correct such statement or omission or to make the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus comply with such requirements and, a reasonable amount of time prior to any proposed filing or use, furnish the Representatives with copies of any such amendment or supplement and (C) file with the Commission any such amendment or supplement; provided that the Company shall not file or use any such amendment or supplement to which the Representatives or counsel for the Underwriters shall object.  The Company will furnish to the Underwriters such number of copies of such amendment or supplement as the Underwriters may reasonably request. The Company has given the Representatives notice of any filings made pursuant to the 1934 Act or 1934 Act Regulations within 48 hours prior to the Applicable Time; the Company will give the Representatives notice of its intention to make any such filing from the Applicable Time to the Closing Time and will furnish the Representatives with copies of any such documents a reasonable amount of time prior to such proposed filing, as the case may be, and will not file or use any such document to which the Representatives or counsel for the Underwriters shall reasonably object.

 

(c)                                   Delivery of Registration Statements .  The Company has furnished or will deliver to the Representatives and counsel for the Underwriters, without charge, signed copies of the Registration Statement as originally filed and each amendment thereto (including exhibits filed therewith and signed copies of all consents and certificates of experts, and will also deliver to the Representatives, without charge, a conformed copy of the Registration Statement as originally filed and each amendment thereto (without exhibits) for each of the Underwriters.  The copies of the Registration Statement and each amendment thereto furnished to the Underwriters will be identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T.

 

(d)                                  Delivery of Prospectuses .  The Company has delivered to each Underwriter, without charge, as many copies of each preliminary prospectus as such Underwriter reasonably requested, and the Company hereby consents to the use of such copies for purposes permitted by the 1933 Act.  The Company will furnish to each Underwriter, without charge, during the period when a prospectus relating to the Securities is (or, but for the exception afforded by Rule 172, would be) required to be delivered under the 1933 Act, such number of copies of the Prospectus (as amended or supplemented) as such Underwriter may reasonably request.  The Prospectus and any amendments or supplements thereto furnished to the Underwriters will be identical to the electronically transmitted copies thereof filed with the Commission pursuant to EDGAR, except to the extent permitted by Regulation S-T.

 

(e)                                   Blue Sky Qualifications .  The Company will use its reasonable best efforts, in cooperation with the Underwriters, to qualify the Securities for offering and sale under the applicable securities laws of such states and other jurisdictions (domestic or foreign) as the Representatives may reasonably designate and to maintain such qualifications in effect so long as required to complete the distribution of the Securities; provided, however, that the Company shall not be obligated to file any general consent to

 

19


 

service of process or to qualify as a foreign corporation or as a dealer in securities in any jurisdiction in which it is not so qualified or to subject itself to taxation in respect of doing business in any jurisdiction in which it is not otherwise so subject.

 

(f)            Rule 158 .  The Company will timely file such reports pursuant to the 1934 Act as are necessary in order to make generally available to its shareholders as soon as practicable an earnings statement for the purposes of, and to provide to the Underwriters the benefits contemplated by, the last paragraph of Section 11(a) of the 1933 Act.

 

(g)           Use of Proceeds .  The Company will not receive any proceeds from the sale of the Securities.

 

(h)           Listing .  The Company will use its reasonable best efforts to effect and maintain the listing of the Ordinary Shares (including the Securities) on the New York Stock Exchange.

 

(i)            Restriction on Sale of Securities .  During a period of 180 days from the date of the Prospectus, the Company will not, without the prior written consent of at least three of the Representatives, (i) directly or indirectly, offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase or otherwise transfer or dispose of any Ordinary Shares or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Ordinary Shares or file or confidentially submit any registration statement under the 1933 Act with respect to any of the foregoing or (ii) enter into any swap or any other agreement or any transaction that transfers, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, the economic consequence of ownership of the Ordinary Shares, whether any such swap or transaction described in clause (i) or (ii) above is to be settled by delivery of Ordinary Shares or other securities, in cash or otherwise.  The foregoing sentence shall not apply to (A) the Securities to be sold hereunder, (B) any Ordinary Shares issued by the Company upon the exercise of an option or warrant or the conversion of a security outstanding on the date hereof and referred to in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, (C) any Ordinary Shares or other equity awards issued or options to purchase Ordinary Shares granted pursuant to employee benefit plans of the Company referred to in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, (D) any Ordinary Shares or other equity awards issued pursuant to any non-employee director stock plan or dividend reinvestment plan referred to in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, (E) the filing by the Company of a registration statement with the Commission on Form S-8 in respect of any shares or other equity instruments issued pursuant to any plans or programs described in (C) or (D) above, (F) any share capital of the Company or securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for such share capital as payment of any part of the purchase price for the acquisition by the Company or any of its subsidiaries of the securities, business, property or other assets of another person or entity, including pursuant to an employee benefit plan assumed by the Company in connection with such acquisition (“Acquisition Securities”); provided, that, (i) in the aggregate, such Acquisition Securities shall not exceed 10% of the outstanding share capital of the Company immediately following the sale of the Securities contemplated by this Agreement and (ii) the recipient of any such Acquisition Securities shall execute and deliver to the Representatives an agreement substantially in the form of Exhibit D hereto, or (G) the filing of any registration statement with the Commission on Form S-4 (or any successor form) solely with respect to Acquisition Securities, provided that no sales of Securities occur during the lock-up period, except pursuant to this Section 3(i).

 

(j)            If at least three of the Representatives, in their sole discretion, agree to release or waive the restrictions set forth in a lock-up agreement described in Section 5(m) hereof for an officer or director of the Company and provides the Company with notice of the impending release or waiver at least three business days before the effective date of the release or waiver, the Company agrees to announce the

 

20



 

impending release or waiver by a press release substantially in the form of Exhibit E hereto through a major news service at least two business days before the effective date of the release or waiver.

 

(k)           Reporting Requirements .  The Company, during the period when a Prospectus relating to the Securities is (or, but for the exception afforded by Rule 172, would be) required to be delivered under the 1933 Act, will file all documents required to be filed with the Commission pursuant to the 1934 Act within the time periods required by the 1934 Act and 1934 Act Regulations.

 

(l)            Issuer Free Writing Prospectuses .  Each of the Company and the Selling Shareholders agrees that, unless it obtains the prior written consent of the Representatives, it will not make any offer relating to the Securities that would constitute an Issuer Free Writing Prospectus or that would otherwise constitute a “free writing prospectus,” or a portion thereof, required to be filed by the Company with the Commission or retained by the Company under Rule 433; provided that the Representatives will be deemed to have consented to the Issuer Free Writing Prospectuses listed on Schedule C-2 hereto and any “road show that is a written communication” within the meaning of Rule 433(d)(8)(i) that has been reviewed by the Representatives.  Each of the Company and the Selling Shareholders represents that it has treated or agrees that it will treat each such free writing prospectus consented to, or deemed consented to, by the Representatives as an “issuer free writing prospectus,” as defined in Rule 433, and that it has complied and will comply with the applicable requirements of Rule 433 with respect thereto, including timely filing with the Commission where required, legending and record keeping.  If at any time following issuance of an Issuer Free Writing Prospectus there occurred or occurs an event or development as a result of which such Issuer Free Writing Prospectus conflicted or would conflict with the information contained in the Registration Statement, any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus or included or would include an untrue statement of a material fact or omitted or would omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances existing at that subsequent time, not misleading, the Company will promptly notify the Representatives and will promptly amend or supplement, at its own expense, such Issuer Free Writing Prospectus to eliminate or correct such conflict, untrue statement or omission.

 

SECTION 4.         Payment of Expenses .

 

(a)           Expenses .  The Company will pay or cause to be paid all expenses incident to the performance of its obligations under this Agreement, including (i) the preparation, printing and filing of the Registration Statement (including financial statements and exhibits) as originally filed and each amendment thereto, (ii) the preparation, printing and delivery to the Underwriters of copies of each preliminary prospectus, each Issuer Free Writing Prospectus and the Prospectus and any amendments or supplements thereto and any costs associated with electronic delivery of any of the foregoing by the Underwriters to investors, (iii) the preparation, issuance and delivery of the certificates or security entitlements for the Securities to the Underwriters, including any share or other transfer taxes and any stamp or other duties payable upon the sale, issuance, transfer or delivery of the Securities to the Underwriters, (iv) the fees and disbursements of the Company’s counsel, accountants and other advisors, (v) the qualification of the Securities under securities laws in accordance with the provisions of Section 3(e) hereof, including filing fees and the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the Underwriters in connection therewith and in connection with the preparation of the Blue Sky Survey and any supplement thereto, provided that the fees and disbursements of counsel to the Underwrites pursuant to this clause (v) do not exceed $15,000, (vi) the fees and expenses of any transfer agent, registrar or depository for the Securities, (vii) any stamp and other duties and stock and other transfer taxes, if any, payable upon the sale of the Securities to the Underwriters as contemplated by this agreement, (viii) the fees and disbursements of the Selling Shareholders’ counsel (ix) the costs and expenses of the Company relating to investor presentations on any “road show” undertaken in connection with the marketing of the Securities, including without limitation, expenses associated with the production of road show slides and

 

21



 

graphics, fees and expenses of any consultants engaged in connection with the road show presentations, travel and lodging expenses of the representatives and officers of the Company and any such consultants, and 50% of the cost of aircraft and other transportation chartered in connection with the road show (it being understood that the other 50% of such aircraft and other transportation chartered in connection with the roadshow shall be the responsibility of the Underwriters, except that the lodging, commercial airfare and individual expenses of the Underwriters shall be the responsibility of the Underwriters, (x) the filing fees incident to, and the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel to the Underwriters in connection with, the review by FINRA of the terms of the sale of the Securities, provided that the fees and disbursements of counsel to the Underwriters pursuant to this clause (x) do not exceed $        ,  (xi) the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the listing of the Securities on the New York Stock Exchange and (xii) the costs and expenses (including, without limitation, any damages or other amounts payable in connection with legal or contractual liability) associated with the reforming of any contracts for sale of the Securities made by the Underwriters caused by a breach of the representation contained in the third sentence of Section 1(a)(ii). It is understood and agreed that except as provided in this Section 4, Section 6 and Section 7, the Underwriters will pay all of their own costs and expenses, including fees and disbursements of their counsel and transfer taxes, if any, payable on resale of any of the Securities by them.

 

(b)           Termination of Agreement .  If this Agreement is terminated by the Representatives in accordance with the provisions of Section 5, Section 10(a)(i) or (iii), Section 11 (but only with respect to non-defaulting Underwriters) or Section 12 hereof, the Company shall reimburse the Underwriters for all of their reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel for the Underwriters.

 

(c)           Allocation of Expenses .  The provisions of this Section shall not affect any agreement that the Company and the Selling Shareholders may make for the sharing of such costs and expenses.

 

SECTION 5.         Conditions of Underwriters’ Obligations .  The obligations of the several Underwriters hereunder are subject to the accuracy of the representations and warranties of the Company and the Selling Shareholders contained herein or in certificates of any officer of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or on behalf of the Selling Shareholders delivered pursuant to the provisions hereof, to the performance by the Company and the Selling Shareholders of their respective covenants and other obligations hereunder, and to the following further conditions:

 

(a)           Effectiveness of Registration Statement; Rule 430A Information .  The Registration Statement, including any Rule 462(b) Registration Statement, has become effective and, at the Closing Time, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement or any post-effective amendment thereto has been issued under the 1933 Act, no order preventing or suspending the use of any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus has been issued and no proceedings for any of those purposes have been instituted or are pending or, to the Company’s knowledge, contemplated; and the Company has complied with each request (if any) from the Commission for additional information.  A prospectus containing the Rule 430A Information shall have been filed with the Commission in the manner and within the time frame required by Rule 424(b) without reliance on Rule 424(b)(8) or a post-effective amendment providing such information shall have been filed with, and declared effective by, the Commission in accordance with the requirements of Rule 430A.

 

(b)           Opinion of Counsel for Company .  At the Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received (i) the favorable opinion (including negative assurance), dated the Closing Time, of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., U.S. counsel for the Company, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letter for each of the other Underwriters and (ii) the opinion, dated the Closing Time, of Vinson & Elkins R.L.L.P., United Kingdom

 

22



 

counsel for the Company, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letter for each of the other Underwriters, in each case to the effect set forth hereto in Exhibit A and Exhibit B, respectively, and to such further effect as counsel to the Underwriters may reasonably request.

 

(c)           Additional Opinions of Counsels for the Company .  At the Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received the opinions, dated the Closing Time, of local counsel for each of the Company’s Subsidiaries set forth in Schedule F, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letter for each of the other Underwriters.

 

(d)           Opinion of Counsel for the Selling Shareholders .  At the Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received the favorable opinion and negative assurance letter, dated the Closing Time, of [Houthoff Buruma], counsel for Huntsman Holdings, and of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., counsel for Huntsman International, in each case in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, together with signed or reproduced copies of each such letter for each of the other Underwriters to the effect set forth in Exhibit C and Exhibit C-2 hereto and to such further effect as counsel to the Underwriters may reasonably request.

 

(e)           Opinion of Counsel for Underwriters .  At the Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received the favorable opinion and negative assurance letter, each dated the Closing Time, of Shearman & Sterling LLP, United States counsel for the Underwriters, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letter for each of the other Underwriters with respect to the matters as the Representatives may require.

 

(f)            Officers’ Certificate .  At the Closing Time, there shall not have been, since the date hereof or since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus, any material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries considered as one enterprise, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business, and the Representatives shall have received a certificate of the Chief Executive Officer or the President of the Company and of the chief financial or chief accounting officer of the Company, dated the Closing Time, to the effect that (i) there has been no such material adverse change, (ii) the representations and warranties of the Company in this Agreement are true and correct with the same force and effect as though expressly made at and as of the Closing Time, (iii) the Company has complied with all agreements and satisfied all conditions on its part to be performed or satisfied at or prior to the Closing Time, and (iv) no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Registration Statement under the 1933 Act has been issued, no order preventing or suspending the use of any preliminary prospectus or the Prospectus has been issued and no proceedings for any of those purposes have been instituted or are pending or, to their knowledge, contemplated.

 

(g)           Certificate of Selling Shareholders .  At the Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received a certificate of an Attorney-in-Fact on behalf of each Selling Shareholder, dated the Closing Time, to the effect that (i) the representations and warranties of such Selling Shareholder in this Agreement are true and correct in all material respects with the same force and effect as though expressly made at and as of the Closing Time and (ii) each Selling Shareholder has complied with all agreements and all conditions on its part to be performed under this Agreement at or prior to the Closing Time.

 

(h)           Accountant’s Comfort Letter .  At the time of the execution of this Agreement, the Representatives shall have received from Deloitte & Touche LLP a letter, dated such date, in form and substance satisfactory to the Representatives, together with signed or reproduced copies of such letter for

 

23



 

each of the other Underwriters containing statements and information of the type ordinarily included in accountants’ “comfort letters” to underwriters with respect to the financial statements and certain financial information contained in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus.

 

(i)            Bring-down Comfort Letter .  At the Closing Time, the Representatives shall have received from Deloitte & Touche LLP a letter, dated as of the Closing Time, to the effect that they reaffirm the statements made in the letter furnished pursuant to subsection (h) of this Section, except that the specified date referred to shall be a date not more than three business days prior to the Closing Time.

 

(j)          CFO Certificate .  On the date of this Agreement and at the Closing Time, as the case may be, the Company shall have furnished to the Representatives a certificate, dated the respective dates of delivery thereof and addressed to the Underwriters, of its Chief Financial Officer with respect to certain financial data contained in the General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus, providing “management comfort” with respect to such information, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Representatives.

 

(k)         Approval of Listing .  At the Closing Time, the Securities shall have been approved for listing on the New York Stock Exchange, subject only to official notice of issuance.

 

(l)          No Objection .  FINRA has confirmed that it has not raised any objection with respect to the fairness and reasonableness of the underwriting terms and arrangements relating to the offering of the Securities.

 

(m)        Lock-up Agreements .  At the date of this Agreement, the Representatives shall have received an agreement substantially in the form of Exhibit D hereto signed by the persons listed on Schedule C hereto.

 

(n)           Rated Securities.   At the date of this Agreement and at the Closing Time (i) no downgrading shall have occurred in the rating accorded the Company’s debt securities by any “nationally recognized statistical rating organization” registered under Section 15E of the 1934 Act, and (ii) no such organization shall have publicly announced that it has under surveillance or review, with possible negative implications, its rating of any debt securities of the Company or its subsidiaries.

 

(o)           Conditions to Purchase of Option Securities .  In the event that the Underwriters exercise their option provided in Section 2(b) hereof to purchase all or any portion of the Option Securities, the representations and warranties of the Company and the Selling Shareholders contained herein and the statements in any certificates furnished by the Company, any of its subsidiaries and the Selling Shareholders hereunder shall be true and correct as of each Date of Delivery and, at the relevant Date of Delivery, the Representatives shall have received:

 

(i)            Officers’ Certificate .  A certificate, dated such Date of Delivery, of the President or a Vice President of the Company and of the chief financial or chief accounting officer of the Company confirming that the certificate delivered at the Closing Time pursuant to Section 5(f) hereof remains true and correct as of such Date of Delivery.

 

(ii)           CFO Certificate .  A certificate, dated such Date of Delivery, addressed to the Underwriters, of the Chief Financial Officer of the Company, confirming that the certificate delivered at the Closing Time pursuant to Section 5(j) hereof remains true and correct as of such Date of Delivery.

 

24



 

(iii)          Certificate of Selling Shareholders .  A certificate, dated such Date of Delivery, of an authorized officer on behalf of the Selling Shareholders confirming that the certificate delivered at the Closing Time pursuant to Section 5(g) remains true and correct as of such Date of Delivery.

 

(iv)          Opinion of Counsel for Company .  If requested by the Representatives, the favorable opinion of Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., U.S. counsel for the Company, together with the opinion of Vinson & Elkins R.L.L.P., United Kingdom counsel for the Company, each in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, dated such Date of Delivery, relating to the Option Securities to be purchased on such Date of Delivery and otherwise to the same effect as the opinion required by Section 5(b) hereof.

 

(v)           Additional Opinions of Counsels for the Company .  If requested by the Representatives, the opinions of local counsel for each of the Company’s Subsidiaries set forth in Schedule F, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, dated such Date of Delivery, relating to the Option Securities to be purchased on such Date of Delivery and otherwise to the same effect as the opinions required by Section 5(c) hereof.

 

(vi)          Opinion of Counsel for the Selling Shareholders .  If requested by the Representatives, the favorable opinion and negative assurance letter of [Houthoff Buruma], counsel for Huntsman Holdings, and Vinson & Elkins L.L.P., counsel for Huntsman International, in each case in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to counsel for the Underwriters, dated such Date of Delivery, relating to the Option Securities to be purchased on such Date of Delivery and otherwise to the same effect as the opinion required by Section 5(d) hereof.

 

(vi)          Opinion of Counsel for Underwriters .  If requested by the Representatives, the favorable opinion and negative assurance letter of Shearman & Sterling LLP, counsel for the Underwriters, dated such Date of Delivery, relating to the Option Securities to be purchased on such Date of Delivery and otherwise to the same effect as the opinion required by Section 5(e) hereof.

 

(vii)         Bring-down Comfort Letter If requested by the Representatives, letters from Deloitte & Touche LLP, in form and substance satisfactory to the Representatives and dated such Date of Delivery, substantially in the same form and substance as the letters furnished to the Representatives pursuant to Section 5(i) hereof, except that the “specified date” in the letters furnished pursuant to this paragraph shall be a date not more than three business days prior to such Date of Delivery.

 

(p)           Additional Documents .  At the Closing Time and at each Date of Delivery (if any) counsel for the Underwriters shall have been furnished with such documents and opinions as they may require for the purpose of enabling them to pass upon the issuance and sale of the Securities as herein contemplated, or in order to evidence the accuracy of any of the representations or warranties, or the fulfillment of any of the conditions, herein contained; and all proceedings taken by the Company and the Selling Shareholders in connection with the issuance and sale of the Securities as herein contemplated shall be satisfactory in form and substance to the Representatives and counsel for the Underwriters.

 

(q)           Completion of Separation .  The Separation shall have been consummated in all material respects as described in the Registration Statement, General Disclosure Package and the Prospectus.

 

25



 

(r)            Termination of Agreement .  If any condition specified in this Section shall not have been fulfilled when and as required to be fulfilled, this Agreement, or, in the case of any condition to the purchase of Option Securities on a Date of Delivery which is after the Closing Time, the obligations of the several Underwriters to purchase the relevant Option Securities, may be terminated by the Representatives by notice to the Company and the Selling Shareholders at any time at or prior to Closing Time or such Date of Delivery, as the case may be, and such  termination shall be without liability of any party to any other party except as provided in Section 4(c) and except that Sections 1, 6, 7, 9, 16, 17 and 18 shall survive any such termination and remain in full force and effect.

 

SECTION 6.         Indemnification .

 

(a)           Indemnification of Underwriters .  The Company agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each Underwriter, its affiliates (as such term is defined in Rule 501(b) under the 1933 Act (each, an “Affiliate”)), its selling agents and each person, if any, who controls any Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act as follows:

 

(i)            against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense whatsoever, as incurred, arising out of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Registration Statement (or any post-effective amendment thereto), including the Rule 430A Information, or the omission or alleged omission therefrom of a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading or arising out of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact included (A) in any preliminary prospectus, any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus (or any post- effective amendment or supplement thereto), or (B) in any materials or information provided to investors by, or with the prior approval of, the Company in connection with the marketing of the offering of the Securities (“Marketing Materials”), including any roadshow or investor presentations made to investors by the Company (whether in person or electronically), or the omission or alleged omission in any preliminary prospectus, Issuer Free Writing Prospectus, Prospectus or in any Marketing Materials of a material fact necessary in order to make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading;

 

(ii)           against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense whatsoever, as incurred, to the extent of the aggregate amount paid in settlement of any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or of any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue statement or omission, or any such alleged untrue statement or omission; provided that (subject to Section 6(e) below) any such settlement is effected with the written consent of the Company and the Selling Shareholders;

 

(iii)          against any and all expense whatsoever, as incurred (including the reasonably incurred fees and disbursements of counsel chosen by the Representatives), reasonably incurred in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue statement or omission, or any such alleged untrue statement or omission, to the extent that any such expense is not paid under (i) or (ii) above;

 

provided, however, that this indemnity agreement shall not apply to any loss, liability, claim, damage or expense to the extent arising out of any untrue statement or omission or alleged untrue statement or omission made in the Registration Statement (or any post-effective amendment thereto), including the Rule 430A Information, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto) in reliance upon and in conformity with the Underwriter Information.

 

26



 

(b)          Indemnification of Underwriters by Selling Shareholders . Each Selling Shareholder severally agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each Underwriter, its Affiliates and selling agents and each person, if any, who controls any Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act to the extent and in the manner set forth in clauses (a)(i), (ii) and (iii) above; provided, that each Selling Shareholder shall be liable only to the extent that such untrue statement or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission has been made in the Registration Statement, any preliminary prospectus, the General Disclosure Package, the Prospectus (or any post-effective amendment or supplement thereto) or any Issuer Free Writing Prospectus in reliance upon and in conformity with the Selling Shareholder Information provided by such Selling Shareholder; provided, further, that the liability under this subsection of each Selling Shareholder shall be limited to an amount equal to the net proceeds to such Selling Shareholder from the sale of Securities sold by such Selling Shareholder hereunder.

 

(c)           Indemnification of Company, Directors and Officers and Selling Shareholders .  Each Underwriter severally agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Company, its directors, each of its officers who signed the Registration Statement, and each person, if any, who controls the Company within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act, and the Selling Shareholders and each person, if any, who controls a Selling Shareholder within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act, against any and all loss, liability, claim, damage and expense  (including the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel) described in the indemnity contained in subsection (a) of this Section, as incurred, but only with respect to untrue statements or omissions, or alleged untrue statements or omissions, made in the Registration Statement (or any post-effective amendment thereto), including the Rule 430A Information, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus (or any amendment or supplement thereto) in reliance upon and in conformity with the Underwriter Information.

 

(d)           Actions against Parties; Notification .  Each indemnified party shall give notice as promptly as reasonably practicable to each indemnifying party of any action commenced against it in respect of which indemnity may be sought hereunder, but failure to so notify an indemnifying party shall not relieve such indemnifying party from any liability hereunder to the extent it is not materially prejudiced (through the forfeiture of substantive rights and defenses or otherwise) as a result thereof and in any event shall not relieve it from any liability which it may have otherwise than on account of this indemnity agreement.  In the case of parties indemnified pursuant to Section 6(a) and 6(b) above, counsel to the indemnified parties shall be selected by the Representatives, and, in the case of parties indemnified pursuant to Section 6(c) above, counsel to the indemnified parties shall be selected by the Company or the Selling Shareholders (as applicable).  An indemnifying party may participate at its own expense in the defense of any such action; provided, however, that counsel to the indemnifying party shall not (except with the consent of the indemnified party) also be counsel to the indemnified party.  In no event shall the indemnifying parties be liable for fees and expenses of more than one counsel (in addition to any local counsel) separate from their own counsel for all indemnified parties in connection with any one action or separate but similar or related actions in the same jurisdiction arising out of the same general allegations or circumstances. No indemnifying party shall, without the prior written consent of the indemnified parties, settle or compromise or consent to the entry of any judgment with respect to any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever in respect of which indemnification or contribution could be sought under this Section 6 or Section 7 hereof (whether or not the indemnified parties are actual or potential parties thereto), unless such settlement, compromise or consent (i) includes an unconditional release of each indemnified party from all liability arising out of such litigation, investigation, proceeding or claim and (ii) does not include a statement as to or an admission of fault, culpability or a failure to act by or on behalf of any indemnified party.

 

27



 

(e)           Settlement without Consent if Failure to Reimburse .  If at any time an indemnified party shall have requested an indemnifying party to reimburse the indemnified party for reasonably incurred fees and expenses of counsel in accordance with this Section 6, such indemnifying party agrees that it shall be liable for any settlement of the nature contemplated by Section 6(a)(ii) effected without its written consent if (i) such settlement is entered into more than 60 days after receipt by such indemnifying party of the aforesaid request, (ii) such indemnifying party shall have received notice of the terms of such settlement at least 45 days prior to such settlement being entered into and (iii) such indemnifying party shall not have reimbursed such indemnified party in accordance with such request prior to the date of such settlement.

 

(f)           Other Agreements with Respect to Indemnification .  The provisions of this Section shall not affect any agreement among the Company and the Selling Shareholders with respect to indemnification.

 

SECTION 7.         Contribution .  If the indemnification provided for in Section 6 hereof is for any reason unavailable to or insufficient to hold harmless an indemnified party in respect of any losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses referred to therein, then each indemnifying party shall contribute to the aggregate amount of such losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses incurred by such indemnified party, as incurred, (i) in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect the relative benefits received by the Company and the Selling Shareholders, on the one hand, and the Underwriters, on the other hand, from the offering of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement or (ii) if the allocation provided by clause (i) is not permitted by applicable law, in such proportion as is appropriate to reflect not only the relative benefits referred to in clause (i) above but also the relative fault of the Company and the Selling Shareholders, on the one hand, and of the Underwriters, on the other hand, in connection with the statements or omissions, which resulted in such losses, liabilities, claims, damages or expenses, as well as any other relevant equitable considerations.

 

The relative benefits received by the Company and the Selling Shareholders, on the one hand, and the Underwriters, on the other hand, in connection with the offering of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement shall be deemed to be in the same respective proportions as the total net proceeds from the offering of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement (before deducting expenses) received by the Selling Shareholders, on the one hand, and the total underwriting discount received by the Underwriters, on the other hand, in each case as set forth on the cover of the Prospectus, bear to the aggregate initial public offering price of the Securities as set forth on the cover of the Prospectus.

 

The relative fault of the Company and the Selling Shareholders, on the one hand, and the Underwriters, on the other hand, shall be determined by reference to, among other things, whether any such untrue or alleged untrue statement of a material fact or omission or alleged omission to state a material fact relates to information supplied by the Company or the Selling Shareholders or by the Underwriters and the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent such statement or omission.

 

The Company, the Selling Shareholders and the Underwriters agree that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 7 were determined by pro rata allocation (even if the Underwriters were treated as one entity for such purpose) or by any other method of allocation which does not take account of the equitable considerations referred to above in this Section 7.  The aggregate amount of losses, liabilities, claims, damages and expenses incurred by an indemnified party and referred to above in this Section 7 shall be deemed to include any legal or other expenses reasonably incurred by such indemnified party in investigating, preparing or defending against any litigation, or any investigation or proceeding by any governmental agency or body, commenced or threatened, or any claim whatsoever based upon any such untrue or alleged untrue statement or omission or alleged omission.

 

28



 

Notwithstanding the provisions of this Section 7, (i) no Underwriter shall be required to contribute any amount in excess of the underwriting commissions received by such Underwriter in connection with the Shares underwritten by it and distributed to the public and (ii) the Selling Shareholders shall not be required to contribute any amount in excess of the aggregate net proceeds to the Selling Shareholders from the sale of Securities sold by the Selling Shareholders hereunder.

 

No person guilty of fraudulent misrepresentation (within the meaning of Section 11(f) of the 1933 Act) shall be entitled to contribution from any person who was not guilty of such fraudulent misrepresentation.

 

For purposes of this Section 7, each person, if any, who controls an Underwriter within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act and each Underwriter’s Affiliates and selling agents shall have the same rights to contribution as such Underwriter, and each director of the Company, each officer of the Company who signed the Registration Statement, and each person, if any, who controls the Company or a Selling Shareholder within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act or Section 20 of the 1934 Act shall have the same rights to contribution as the Company or the Selling Shareholders, as the case may be.  The Underwriters’ respective obligations to contribute pursuant to this Section 7 are several in proportion to the number of Initial Securities set forth opposite their respective names in Schedule A hereto and not joint.

 

The provisions of this Section shall not affect any agreement among the Company and the Selling Shareholders with respect to contribution.

 

SECTION 8.         Tax Indemnity .  The Company will indemnify and hold harmless the Underwriters against any documentary, stamp, registration or similar issuance tax, including any interest and penalties (except to the extent attributable to the unreasonable default or delay of the Underwriters in discharging such taxes which have been repaid to the Underwriters or for which the Underwriters have been indemnified), on the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the grant and/or exercise of the option to purchase Option Securities, the sale by the Selling Shareholders of the Securities to the Underwriters, the offer, sale and delivery by the Underwriters of the Securities, and the deposit of the Securities into DTC, as contemplated herein and in the Prospectus.

 

Any and all amounts payable by the Company or the Selling Shareholders under this Agreement, including any indemnity payments made pursuant to this Section 8, shall be made without withholding or deduction for or on account of any present or future taxes, duties or governmental charges whatsoever imposed in any and all relevant taxing jurisdictions unless the Company or any Selling Shareholder is required by law to deduct or withhold such taxes, duties or charges.  In that event, and except for any taxes imposed on the Underwriters by any jurisdiction as a result of any present, or former, or future connection (other than any connection resulting from the transactions contemplated by this Agreement) between the Underwriters and the jurisdiction imposing such taxes, the Company or the relevant Selling Shareholder, as applicable, shall pay such additional amounts as may be necessary in order to ensure that the net amounts received after such withholding or deductions shall equal the amounts that would have been received if no withholding or deduction had been made.  All sums payable by the Company or the Selling Shareholders under this Agreement to the Underwriters shall be exclusive of value added tax (“VAT”). Where a sum is payable under this Agreement to the Underwriters, the Company or the Selling Shareholders will, in addition to such sum, pay such amount as is equal to any VAT properly chargeable thereon on receipt of a valid VAT invoice.  The foregoing provisions shall not apply in respect of any VAT for which the Company is liable to account to the relevant taxing authority directly. All amounts for which the Underwriters are to be reimbursed under this Agreement shall include any applicable VAT included in the relevant cost or expense, except to the extent that the VAT is recoverable.

 

29


 

SECTION 9.         Representations, Warranties and Agreements to Survive .  All representations, warranties and agreements contained in this Agreement or in certificates of officers of the Company or any of its subsidiaries or the Selling Shareholders submitted pursuant hereto, shall remain operative and in full force and effect regardless of (i) any investigation made by or on behalf of any Underwriter or its Affiliates or selling agents, any person controlling any Underwriter, its officers or directors, any person controlling the Company or any person controlling a Selling Shareholder and (ii) delivery of and payment for the Securities.

 

SECTION 10.       Termination of Agreement .

 

(a)           Termination .  The Representative may terminate this Agreement, by notice to the Company and the Selling Shareholders, at any time at or prior to the Closing Time (i) if there has been, in the judgment of the Representatives, since the time of execution of this Agreement or since the respective dates as of which information is given in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus, any material adverse change in the condition, financial or otherwise, or in the earnings, business affairs or business prospects of the Company and its subsidiaries considered as one enterprise, whether or not arising in the ordinary course of business, or (ii) if there has occurred any material adverse change in the financial markets in the United States or the international financial markets, any outbreak of hostilities or escalation thereof or other calamity or crisis or any change or development involving a prospective change in national or international political, financial or economic conditions, in each case the effect of which is such as to make it, in the judgment of the Representatives, impracticable or inadvisable to proceed with the completion of the offering or to enforce contracts for the sale of the Securities, or (iii) if trading in any securities of the Company has been suspended or materially limited by the Commission or the New York Stock Exchange, or (iv) if trading generally on the New York Stock Exchange has been suspended or materially limited, or minimum or maximum prices for trading have been fixed, or maximum ranges for prices have been required, by any of said exchanges or by order of the Commission, FINRA or any other governmental authority, or (v) a material disruption has occurred in commercial banking or securities settlement or clearance services in the United States or with respect to Clearstream or Euroclear systems in Europe, or (vi) if a banking moratorium has been declared by either Federal, New York or U.K. authorities.

 

(b)           Liabilities .  If this Agreement is terminated pursuant to this Section, such termination shall be without liability of any party to any other party except as provided in Section 4 hereof, and provided further that Sections 1, 6, 7, 9, 16, 17 and 18 shall survive such termination and remain in full force and effect.

 

SECTION 11.       Default by One or More of the Underwriters .  If one or more of the Underwriters shall fail at the Closing Time or a Date of Delivery to purchase the Securities which it or they are obligated to purchase under this Agreement (the “Defaulted Securities”), the Representatives shall have the right, within 24 hours thereafter, to make arrangements for one or more of the non-defaulting Underwriters, or any other underwriters, to purchase all, but not less than all, of the Defaulted Securities in such amounts as may be agreed upon and upon the terms herein set forth; if, however, the Representatives shall not have completed such arrangements within such 24-hour period, then:

 

(i)            if the number of Defaulted Securities does not exceed 10% of the number of Securities to be purchased on such date, each of the non-defaulting Underwriters shall be obligated, severally and not jointly, to purchase the full amount thereof in the proportions that their respective underwriting obligations hereunder bear to the underwriting obligations of all non-defaulting Underwriters, or

 

30



 

(ii)           if the number of Defaulted Securities exceeds 10% of the number of Securities to be purchased on such date, this Agreement or, with respect to any Date of Delivery which occurs after the Closing Time, the obligation of the Underwriters to purchase, and the Company to sell, the Option Securities to be purchased and sold on such Date of Delivery shall terminate without liability on the part of any non-defaulting Underwriter.

 

No action taken pursuant to this Section shall relieve any defaulting Underwriter from liability in respect of its default.

 

In the event of any such default which does not result in a termination of this Agreement or, in the case of a Date of Delivery which is after the Closing Time, which does not result in a termination of the obligation of the Underwriters to purchase and Huntsman Holdings to sell the relevant Option Securities, as the case may be, either the (i) Representatives or (ii) the Company and the Selling Shareholders shall have the right to postpone Closing Time or the relevant Date of Delivery, as the case may be, for a period not exceeding seven days in order to effect any required changes in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus or in any other documents or arrangements.  As used herein, the term “Underwriter” includes any person substituted for an Underwriter under this Section 11.

 

SECTION 12.       Default by the Selling Shareholders .  If a Selling Shareholder shall fail at the Closing Time or a Date of Delivery, as the case may be, to sell and deliver the number of Securities which such Selling Shareholder is obligated to sell hereunder, then the Underwriters may, at the option of the Representatives, by notice from the Representatives to the Company, terminate this Agreement without any liability on the fault of any non-defaulting party except that the provisions of Sections 1, 4, 6, 7, 9, 16, 17 and 18 shall remain in full force and effect. No action taken pursuant to this Section 12 shall relieve a Selling Shareholder so defaulting from liability, if any, in respect of such default.

 

In the event of a default by a Selling Shareholder as referred to in this Section 12, each of the Representatives and the Company shall have the right to postpone the Closing Time or any Date of Delivery, as the case may be, for a period not exceeding seven days in order to effect any required change in the Registration Statement, the General Disclosure Package or the Prospectus or in any other documents or arrangements.

 

SECTION 13.       Notices .  All notices and other communications hereunder shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been duly given if mailed or transmitted by any standard form of telecommunication.  Notices to the Underwriters shall be directed to the Representatives as set forth in Schedule A-1; notices to the Company shall be directed to it to 10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380, attention of Russ R. Stolle (facsimile: [ · ]), with a copy to 1001 Fannin Street, Suite 2500, Houston, Texas 77002, attention of Jeffery B. Floyd (facsimile: (713) 615 5660); and notices to the Selling Shareholders shall be directed to [10003 Woodloch Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380], attention of [ · ], with a copy to 1001 Fannin Street, Suite 2500, Houston, Texas 77002, attention of Jeffery B. Floyd (facsimile: (713) 615 5660).

 

SECTION 14.       No Advisory or Fiduciary Relationship .  Each of the Company and each Selling Shareholder acknowledges and agrees that (a) the purchase and sale of the Securities pursuant to this Agreement, including the determination of the initial public offering price of the Securities and any related discounts and commissions, is an arm’s-length commercial transaction between the Company and the Selling Shareholders, on the one hand, and the several Underwriters, on the other hand, (b) in connection with the offering of the Securities and the process leading thereto, each Underwriter is and has been acting solely as a principal and is not the agent or fiduciary of the Company, any of its subsidiaries or the Selling Shareholders, or their respective shareholders, stockholders, creditors, employees or any other party, (c) no Underwriter has assumed or will assume an advisory or fiduciary responsibility in

 

31



 

favor of the Company or the Selling Shareholders with respect to the offering of the Securities or the process leading thereto (irrespective of whether such Underwriter has advised or is currently advising the Company, any of its subsidiaries or the Selling Shareholders on other matters) and no Underwriter has any obligation to the Company or the Selling Shareholders with respect to the offering of the Securities except the obligations expressly set forth in this Agreement, (d) the Underwriters and their respective affiliates may be engaged in a broad range of transactions that involve interests that differ from those of each of the Company and the Selling Shareholders, and (e) the Underwriters have not provided any legal, accounting, regulatory or tax advice with respect to the offering of the Securities and each of the Company and the Selling Shareholders has consulted its own respective legal, accounting, regulatory and tax advisors to the extent it deemed appropriate.

 

SECTION 15.       Parties .  This Agreement shall inure to the benefit of and be binding upon each of the Underwriters, the Company and the Selling Shareholders and their respective successors.  Nothing expressed or mentioned in this Agreement is intended or shall be construed to give any person, firm or corporation, other than the Underwriters, the Company and the Selling Shareholders their respective successors and the controlling persons and officers and directors referred to in Sections 6 and 7 and their heirs and legal representatives, any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under or in respect of this Agreement or any provision herein contained.  This Agreement and all conditions and provisions hereof are intended to be for the sole and exclusive benefit of the Underwriters, the Company and the Selling Shareholders and their respective successors, and said controlling persons and officers and directors and their heirs and legal representatives, and for the benefit of no other person, firm or corporation.  No purchaser of Securities from any Underwriter shall be deemed to be a successor by reason merely of such purchase.

 

SECTION 16.       Trial by Jury .  The Company (on its behalf and, to the extent permitted by applicable law, on behalf of its shareholders and affiliates), the Selling Shareholders and each of the Underwriters hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, any and all right to trial by jury in any legal proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby.

 

SECTION 17.       GOVERNING LAW .  THIS AGREEMENT AND ANY CLAIM, CONTROVERSY OR DISPUTE ARISING UNDER OR RELATED TO THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF, THE STATE OF NEW YORK WITHOUT REGARD TO ITS CHOICE OF LAW PROVISIONS.

 

SECTION 18.       Consent to Jurisdiction; Waiver of Immunity . Any legal suit, action or proceeding arising out of or based upon this Agreement or the transactions contemplated hereby (“Related Proceedings”) shall be instituted in (i) the federal courts of the United States of America located in the City and County of New York, Borough of Manhattan or (ii) the courts of the State of New York located in the City and County of New York, Borough of Manhattan (collectively, the “Specified Courts”), and each party irrevocably submits to the exclusive jurisdiction (except for proceedings instituted in regard to the enforcement of a judgment of any such court (a “Related Judgment”), as to which such jurisdiction is non-exclusive) of such courts in any such suit, action or proceeding.  Service of any process, summons, notice or document by mail to such party’s address set forth above shall be effective service of process for any suit, action or other proceeding brought in any such court.  The parties irrevocably and unconditionally waive any objection to the laying of venue of any suit, action or other proceeding in the Specified Courts and irrevocably and unconditionally waive and agree not to plead or claim in any such court that any such suit, action or other proceeding brought in any such court has been brought in an inconvenient forum.  Each of the Company and the Selling Shareholders irrevocably appoints [CT Corporation System] as its agent to receive service of process or other legal summons for purposes of any such suit, action or proceeding that may be instituted in any state or federal court in the City and County

 

32



 

of New York. With respect to any Related Proceeding, each party irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, all immunity (whether on the basis of sovereignty or otherwise) from jurisdiction, service of process, attachment (both before and after judgment) and execution to which it might otherwise be entitled in the Specified Courts, and with respect to any Related Judgment, each party waives any such immunity in the Specified Courts or any other court of competent jurisdiction, and will not raise or claim or cause to be pleaded any such immunity at or in respect of any such Related Proceeding or Related Judgment, including, without limitation, any immunity pursuant to the United States Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act of 1976, as amended.

 

SECTION 19.       Judgment Currency .  In respect of any judgment or order given or made for any amount due hereunder that is expressed and paid in a currency other than United States dollars, the parties hereto agree, to the fullest extent that they may effectively do so, that the rate of exchange used shall be the rate at which in accordance with normal banking procedures the Underwriters could purchase United States dollars with such other currency on the business day preceding that on which final judgment is given. If the U.S. dollars so purchased are less than the sum originally due to such Underwriter hereunder, the Company and the Selling Shareholders agree, as a separate obligation and notwithstanding any such judgment, to indemnify such Underwriter against such loss. If the U.S. dollars so purchased are greater than the sum originally due to such Underwriter hereunder, such Underwriter agrees to pay to the Company and the Selling Shareholders (but without duplication) an amount equal to the excess of the United States dollars so purchased over the sum originally due to such Underwriter hereunder. The foregoing indemnities shall constitute a separate and independent obligation of the Underwriters, on the one hand, and the Company and the Selling Shareholders, on the other hand, and shall continue in full force and effect notwithstanding any such judgment or order as aforesaid.

 

SECTION 20.       TIME . TIME SHALL BE OF THE ESSENCE OF THIS AGREEMENT. EXCEPT AS OTHERWISE SET FORTH HEREIN, SPECIFIED TIMES OF DAY REFER TO NEW YORK CITY TIME.

 

SECTION 21.       Counterparts .  This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original, but all such counterparts shall together constitute one and the same Agreement.

 

SECTION 22.       Effect of Headings .  The Section headings herein are for convenience only and shall not affect the construction hereof.

 

33



 

If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding of our agreement, please sign and return to the Company and the Selling Shareholders a counterpart hereof, whereupon this instrument, along with all counterparts, will become a binding agreement among the Underwriters, the Company and the Selling Shareholders in accordance with its terms.

 

 

Very truly yours,

 

 

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

HUNTSMAN INTERNATIONAL LLC

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

HUNTSMAN (HOLDINGS) NETHERLANDS B.V.

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Title:

 

 

CONFIRMED AND ACCEPTED,

 

as of the date first above written:

 

 

34



 

CITIGROUP GLOBAL MARKETS INC.

 

GOLDMAN SACHS & CO. LLC

 

MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH

 

INCORPORATED

 

J.P. MORGAN SECURITIES LLC

 

 

 

By: CITIGROUP GLOBAL MARKETS INC.

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Authorized Signatory

 

 

 

By: GOLDMAN SACHS & CO. LLC

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Authorized Signatory

 

 

 

By: MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Authorized Signatory

 

 

 

By: J.P. MORGAN SECURITIES LLC

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Authorized Signatory

 

 

For themselves and as Representatives of the other Underwriters named in Schedule A hereto.

 

35


 

SCHEDULE A

 

The initial public offering price per share for the Securities shall be $[ · ].

 

The purchase price per share for the Securities to be paid by the several Underwriters shall be $[ · ], being an amount equal to the initial public offering price set forth above less $[ · ] per share, subject to adjustment in accordance with Section 2(b) for dividends or distributions declared by the Company and payable on the Initial Securities but not payable on the Option Securities.

 

Name of Underwriter

 

Number of
Initial Securities

 

 

 

 

 

Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

 

 

 

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC

 

 

 

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated

 

 

 

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

 

 

 

Barclays Capital Inc.

 

 

 

Deutsche Bank Securities Inc.

 

 

 

UBS Securities LLC

 

 

 

RBC Capital Markets, LLC Moelis & Company LLC

 

 

 

HSBC Securities (USA) Inc.

 

 

 

Nomura Securities International, Inc.

 

 

 

SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc.

 

 

 

Academy Securities, Inc.

 

 

 

Commerz Markets LLC

 

 

 

Total

 

[ · ]

 

 

Sch A - 1



 

SCHEDULE A-1

 

Notices

 

Citigroup Global Markets Inc.

388 Greenwich Street

New York, New York 10013

Attention: General Counsel

Facsimile: (646) 291-1469

 

Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC

200 West Street

New York, New York 10019

Attention: Registration Department

Facsimile:

 

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
Incorporated

One Bryant Park

New York, New York 10036

Attention: Syndicate Department

Facsimile: (646) 855-3073, with a copy to ECM Legal (facsimile: (212) 230-8730)

 

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

383 Madison Avenue

New York, New York 10179

Attention: Equity Syndicate Desk

Facsimile: (212) 622-8358

 

Sch A-1 - 1



 

SCHEDULE B

 

 

 

Number of Initial
Securities to be Sold

 

Maximum Number of Option
Securities to Be Sold

 

Huntsman International LLC

 

 

 

 

 

Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V.

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sch B - 1



 

SCHEDULE C-1

 

Pricing Terms

 

1.                                       The Selling Shareholders are selling [ · ] Ordinary Shares.

 

2.                                       The Selling Shareholders have granted an option to the Underwriters, severally and not jointly, to purchase up to an additional [ · ] Ordinary Shares.

 

3.                                       The initial public offering price per share for the Securities shall be $[ · ].

 

Sch C - 1



 

SCHEDULE C-2

 

Free Writing Prospectuses

 

[None.]

 

Sch C - 2



 

SCHEDULE D

 

List of Persons and Entities Subject to Lock-up

 

1.               Huntsman International LLC

2.               Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V.

3.               Peter R. Huntsman

4.               Sir Robert J. Margetts

5.               Douglas D. Anderson

6.               Daniele Ferrari

7.               Simon Turner

8.               Kurt D. Ogden

9.               Russ R. Stolle

10.        Phil Wrigley

11.        Antje Gerber

12.        Jan Buberl

13.        Mahomed Maiter

 

Sch D - 1



 

SCHEDULE E

 

List of Separation Agreements

 

1.               Separation Agreement

2.               Transition Services Agreement

3.               Tax Matters Agreement

4.               Employee Matters Agreement

5.               Registration Rights Agreement

 

Sch E - 1



 

SCHEDULE F

 

Significant Subsidiaries Opinions Pursuant to Section 5(c)

 

1.               Huntsman P&A Investments LLC

2.               Huntsman P&A Americas LLC

3.               Huntsman P&A UK Limited

4.               Huntsman P&A Germany GMBH

5.               Huntsman P&A Finland Oy

6.               [Huntsman P&A Italy S.r.l.]

 

Sch F - 1



 

SCHEDULE G

 

Significant Subsidiaries

 

1.               Huntsman P&A Investments LLC

2.               Huntsman P&A Americas LLC

3.               Huntsman P&A UK Limited

4.               Huntsman P&A Germany GMBH

5.               Huntsman P&A Finland Oy

6.               Huntsman P&A Italy S.r.l.

7.               Huntsman P&A Asia Sdn Bhd

 

Sch G - 1


 

Exhibit A

 

FORM OF OPINION OF COMPANY’S U.S. COUNSEL
TO BE DELIVERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 5(b)

 

[Separately Attached]

 

A- 1



 

Exhibit B

 

FORM OF OPINION OF COMPANY’S U.K. COUNSEL
TO BE DELIVERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 5(b)

 

[Separately Attached]

 

B- 1



 

Exhibit C-1

 

FORM OF OPINION OF COUNSEL FOR HUNTSMAN HOLDINGS
TO BE DELIVERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 5(d)

 

[Separately Attached]

 

C-1- 1



 

Exhibit C-2

 

FORM OF OPINION OF COUNSEL FOR HUNTSMAN INTERNATIONAL
TO BE DELIVERED PURSUANT TO SECTION 5(d)

 

[Separately Attached]

 

C-2- 1



 

Exhibit D

 

Form of lock-up from directors, officers or other shareholders pursuant to Section 5(m)

 

[ · ], 2017

 

Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith
                                                Incorporated
J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

 

c/o Citigroup Global Markets Inc.
388 Greenwich Street
New York, New York  10013

 

Re:                              Proposed Public Offering by Venator Materials PLC

 

Dear Sirs:

 

The undersigned, a shareholder, officer and/or director of Venator Materials PLC, a public limited company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (the “Company”), understands that Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC,
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated and J.P. Morgan Securities LLC  (together, the “Representatives”) propose to enter into an Underwriting Agreement (the “Underwriting Agreement”) with the Company, Huntsman International LLC (“HI”), a Delaware limited liability company, and Huntsman (Holdings) Netherlands B.V., a private limited liability company ( besloten vennootschap met beperkte aansprakelijkheid ) incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands (together with HI, the “Selling Shareholders”), providing for the offer and sale by the Selling Shareholders (the “Offering”) of the Company’s ordinary shares, par value $0.32 per share (“Ordinary Shares”).  For good and valuable consideration, the receipt and sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, the undersigned agrees with each underwriter to be named in the Underwriting Agreement that, during the period beginning on the date hereof and ending on the date that is 180 days from the date of the Underwriting Agreement (the “Lock-Up Period”), the undersigned will not, without the prior written consent of at least three of the Representatives, (i) directly or indirectly, offer, pledge, sell, contract to sell, sell any option or contract to purchase, purchase any option or contract to sell, grant any option, right or warrant to purchase or otherwise transfer or dispose of Ordinary Shares or any securities convertible into or exercisable or exchangeable for Ordinary Shares, whether now owned or hereafter acquired by the undersigned or with respect to which the undersigned has or hereafter acquires the power of disposition (collectively, the “Lock-Up Securities”), or exercise any right with respect to the registration of any of the Lock-up Securities, or file, cause to be filed or cause to be confidentially submitted any registration statement in connection therewith, under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or (ii) enter into any swap or any other agreement or any transaction that transfers, in whole or in part, directly or indirectly, the economic consequence of ownership of the Lock-Up Securities, whether any such swap or transaction is to be settled by delivery of Ordinary Shares or other securities, in cash or otherwise.

 

D- 1



 

If the undersigned is an officer or director of the Company, (1) the Representatives agree that, at least three business days before the effective date of any release or waiver of the foregoing restrictions in connection with a transfer of the Lock-Up Securities, the Representatives involved in granting such release pursuant to the terms of this lock-up agreement will notify the Company of the impending release or waiver, and (2) the Company has agreed in the Underwriting Agreement to announce the impending release or waiver by press release through a major news service at least two business days before the effective date of the release or waiver.  Any release or waiver granted by the Representatives hereunder to any such officer or director shall only be effective two business days after the publication date of such press release.  The provisions of this paragraph will not apply if (i) the release or waiver is effected solely to permit a transfer not for consideration and (ii) the transferee has agreed in writing to be bound by the same terms described in this letter to the extent and for the duration that such terms remain in effect at the time of the transfer.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, and subject to the conditions below, the undersigned may transfer the Lock-Up Securities without the prior written consent of the Representatives, provided that (1) the Representatives receive a signed lock-up agreement for the balance of the Lock-Up Period from each donee, trustee, distributee, or transferee, as the case may be, (2) any such transfer shall not involve a disposition for value, (3) such transfers are not required to be reported with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on Form 4 in accordance with Section 16 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “1934 Act”), and (4) the undersigned does not otherwise voluntarily effect any public filing or report regarding such transfers during the Lock-Up Period:

 

(i)                                      as a bona fide gift or gifts; or

 

(ii)                                   to any trust for the direct or indirect benefit of the undersigned or the immediate family of the undersigned (for purposes of this lock-up agreement, “immediate family” shall mean any relationship by blood, marriage or adoption, not more remote than first cousin); or

 

(iii)                                as a distribution to limited partners or securityholders of the undersigned (as applicable); or

 

(iv)                               to the undersigned’s affiliates or to any investment fund or other entity controlled or managed by the undersigned.

 

Furthermore, the undersigned may:

 

(1) sell Ordinary Shares purchased by the undersigned on the open market following the Offering if and only if (i) such sales are not required to be reported in any public report or filing with the Commission, or otherwise and (ii) the undersigned does not otherwise voluntarily effect any public filing or report regarding such sales;

 

(2) establish a trading plan pursuant to Rule 10b5-1 under the 1934 Act for the transfer of Ordinary Shares, provided that (i) such plan does not provide for the transfer of Ordinary Shares during the Lock-Up Period and (ii) no public report or filing is required or voluntarily made in connection therewith; and

 

(3) exercise an option to purchase Ordinary Shares granted under any employee benefit plan, or non-employee director share plan or dividend reinvestment plan, of the Company described in the Registration Statement, provided, however, that (x) the underlying Ordinary Shares received by the undersigned shall continue to be subject to the restrictions on transfer set forth in this lock-up agreement and (y) (i) any filing under Section 16 of the 1934 Act required to be made during the Lock-Up Period

 

D- 2



 

shall clearly indicate in the footnotes thereto that (A) the filing relates to the circumstances described above and (B) no Lock-Up Securities were sold by the undersigned and (ii) the undersigned does not otherwise voluntarily effect any other public filing or report regarding such transfers during the Lock-Up Period.

 

The undersigned also agrees and consents to the entry of stop transfer instructions with the Company’s transfer agent and registrar against the transfer of the Lock-Up Securities except in compliance with the foregoing restrictions.

 

This lock-up agreement shall automatically terminate, and the undersigned shall be released from its obligations hereunder, upon the earliest to occur, if any, of (i) either the Representatives, on the one hand, or the Company or the Selling Shareholders, on the other hand, has advised the other(s) in writing prior to the execution of the Underwriting Agreement that they or it have determined not to proceed with the Offering, (ii) the Company files an application to withdraw the registration statement related to the Offering, (iii) the Underwriting Agreement is executed but is terminated prior to the closing of the Offering (other than the provisions thereof which survive termination) and prior to payment for and delivery of the Ordinary Shares to be sold thereunder, or (iv) [ · ], 2017,(1) in the event that the Underwriting Agreement has not been executed by such date.

 


(1)  NTD:  6 months.

 

D- 3



 

 

Very truly yours,

 

 

 

Signature:

 

 

 

 

 

Print Name:

 

 

D- 4



 

Exhibit E

 

FORM OF PRESS RELEASE

TO BE ISSUED PURSUANT TO SECTION 3(j)

 

[Separately Attached]

 

E- 1




Exhibit 3.2

 

COMPANY NUMBER:  10747130

 

THE COMPANIES ACT 2006

 


 

A PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES

 


 

FORM OF AMENDED AND RESTATED

 

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

 

OF

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

(Adopted by special resolution on                      , 2017)

 



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

Page

PRELIMINARY

 

1.

 

ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

1

2.

 

INTERPRETATION

1

3.

 

LIABILITY OF SHAREHOLDERS

6

4.

 

CHANGE OF NAME

6

 

 

 

 

SHARES

 

5.

 

SHARE CAPITAL

6

6.

 

ALLOTMENT

6

7.

 

POWER TO ATTACH RIGHTS

6

8.

 

VARIATION OF CLASS RIGHTS

7

9.

 

REDEEMABLE SHARES

7

10.

 

COMMISSION AND BROKERAGE

7

11.

 

TRUSTS NOT RECOGNISED

7

12.

 

ALTERATION OF SHARE CAPITAL

8

13.

 

PURCHASE OF OWN SHARES

8

14.

 

EVIDENCE OF OWNERSHIP OF SHARES

8

15.

 

UNCERTIFICATED SHARES

8

 

 

 

 

SHARE CERTIFICATES

 

16.

 

RIGHT TO CERTIFICATE

10

17.

 

REPLACEMENT CERTIFICATES

11

 

 

 

 

LIEN

 

18.

 

COMPANY’S LIEN ON SHARES NOT FULLY PAID

11

19.

 

ENFORCEMENT OF LIEN BY SALE

11

20.

 

APPLICATION OF PROCEEDS OF SALE

12

 

 

 

 

CALLS ON SHARES

 

21.

 

CALLS

12

22.

 

POWER TO DIFFERENTIATE

12

23.

 

INTEREST ON CALLS

12

24.

 

PAYMENT IN ADVANCE

12

25.

 

AMOUNTS DUE ON ALLOTMENT OR ISSUE TREATED AS CALLS

13

 

 

 

 

FORFEITURE

 

26.

 

NOTICE IF CALL NOT PAID

13

27.

 

FORFEITURE FOR NON—COMPLIANCE

13

28.

 

NOTICE AFTER FORFEITURE

13

29.

 

DISPOSAL OF FORFEITED SHARES

13

30.

 

ARREARS TO BE PAID NOTWITHSTANDING FORFEITURE

14

31.

 

SURRENDER

14

 

 

 

 

TRANSFER OF SHARES

 

32.

 

METHOD OF TRANSFER

14

33.

 

RIGHT TO REFUSE REGISTRATION

14

34.

 

NO FEES ON REGISTRATION

15

 

 

 

 

TRANSMISSION OF SHARES

 

35.

 

ON DEATH

16

36.

 

ELECTION OF PERSON ENTITLED BY TRANSMISSION

16

37.

 

RIGHTS ON TRANSMISSION

16

 

 

 

 

UNTRACED SHAREHOLDERS

 

38.

 

POWER OF SALE

17

39.

 

APPLICATION OF PROCEEDS OF SALE

17

 



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

Page

FRACTIONS

 

 

 

40.

 

FRACTIONS

18

 

 

 

 

GENERAL MEETINGS

 

41.

 

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS

18

42.

 

CONVENING OF GENERAL MEETINGS

18

43.

 

LENGTH AND FORM OF NOTICE

19

44.

 

OMISSION TO SEND NOTICE

20

45.

 

POSTPONEMENT OF GENERAL MEETINGS

20

46.

 

SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS AND NOMINATIONS

20

47.

 

LIST OF SHAREHOLDERS

25

 

 

 

 

PROCEEDINGS AT GENERAL MEETINGS

 

48.

 

QUORUM

25

49.

 

PROCEDURE IF QUORUM NOT PRESENT

25

50.

 

CHAIRMAN

26

51.

 

RIGHT TO ATTEND AND SPEAK

26

52.

 

POWER TO ADJOURN

26

53.

 

NOTICE OF ADJOURNED MEETING

26

54.

 

BUSINESS AT ADJOURNED MEETING

27

55.

 

SATELLITE MEETINGS

27

56.

 

ACCOMMODATION OF SHAREHOLDERS AT MEETING

27

57.

 

SECURITY

28

 

 

 

 

VOTING

 

58.

 

METHOD OF VOTING

28

59.

 

PROCEDURE

28

60.

 

VOTES OF SHAREHOLDERS

29

61.

 

RESTRICTION ON VOTING RIGHTS FOR UNPAID CALLS, ETC.

29

62.

 

VOTING BY PROXY

29

63.

 

APPOINTMENT OF PROXY

30

64.

 

WHEN VOTES BY PROXY ARE VALID ALTHOUGH AUTHORITY TERMINATED

31

 

 

 

 

ADDITIONAL VOTING PROVISIONS

 

65.

 

CORPORATE REPRESENTATIVES

31

66.

 

OBJECTIONS TO AND ERROR IN VOTING

32

67.

 

AMENDMENTS TO RESOLUTIONS

32

68.

 

FAILURE TO DISCLOSE INTERESTS IN SHARES

32

 

 

 

 

APPOINTMENT AND RETIREMENT OF DIRECTORS

 

69.

 

NUMBER OF DIRECTORS

34

70.

 

POWER OF THE COMPANY TO APPOINT DIRECTORS

35

71.

 

POWER OF THE BOARD TO APPOINT DIRECTORS

35

72.

 

[OMITTED]

35

73.

 

NO SHARE QUALIFICATION

35

74.

 

VOTING ON RESOLUTION FOR APPOINTMENT

35

75.

 

ANNUAL APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS

35

76.

 

RESIGNATION, DISQUALIFICATION AND REMOVAL OF DIRECTOR

36

77.

 

[OMITTED]

36

78.

 

[OMITTED]

36

79.

 

[OMITTED]

36

80.

 

[OMITTED]

36

 

 

 

 

REMUNERATION, EXPENSES AND PENSIONS

 

81.

 

REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES OF DIRECTORS

36

82.

 

ADDITIONAL REMUNERATION

37

83.

 

[OMITTED]

37

 

ii



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

 

84.

 

DIRECTORS’ PENSIONS AND OTHER BENEFITS

37

85.

 

[OMITTED]

38

86.

 

INSURANCE

38

 

 

 

 

POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD

 

87.

 

POWERS OF THE BOARD

38

88.

 

POWERS OF DIRECTORS BEING LESS THAN MINIMUM REQUIRED NUMBER

38

89.

 

[OMITTED]

38

90.

 

OFFICERS

38

91.

 

CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND PRESIDENTS

39

92.

 

VICE PRESIDENTS

39

93.

 

DELEGATION TO COMMITTEES

39

94.

 

[OMITTED]

40

95.

 

AGENTS

40

96.

 

EXERCISE OF VOTING POWERS

40

97.

 

PROVISION FOR EMPLOYEES

41

98.

 

REGISTERS

41

99.

 

REGISTER OF CHARGES

41

100.

 

DIRECTORS’ CONFLICTS OF INTEREST OTHER THAN IN RELATION TO TRANSACTIONS OR ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE COMPANY

41

101.

 

DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST BY DIRECTORS

43

102.

 

DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN RELATION TO TRANSACTIONS OR ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE COMPANY

44

 

 

 

 

PROCEEDINGS OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEES

 

103.

 

BOARD MEETINGS

46

104.

 

NOTICE OF BOARD MEETINGS

46

105.

 

QUORUM

46

106.

 

CHAIRMAN OF BOARD

46

107.

 

VOTING

46

108.

 

PARTICIPATION BY TELEPHONE

46

109.

 

RESOLUTION IN WRITING

47

110.

 

PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEES

47

111.

 

MINUTES OF PROCEEDINGS

47

112.

 

VALIDITY OF PROCEEDINGS OF BOARD OR COMMITTEE

48

 

 

 

 

SECRETARY AND AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS

 

113.

 

SECRETARY

48

114.

 

AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS

48

 

 

 

 

SEALS

 

115.

 

SAFE CUSTODY

49

116.

 

APPLICATION OF SEALS

49

 

 

 

 

DIVIDENDS AND OTHER PAYMENTS

 

117.

 

RESERVES

49

118.

 

PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS

49

119.

 

ENTITLEMENT TO DIVIDENDS

49

120.

 

METHOD OF PAYMENT

50

121.

 

DIVIDENDS NOT TO BEAR INTEREST

52

122.

 

UNCLAIMED DIVIDENDS, ETC.

52

123.

 

UNCASHED DIVIDENDS

52

124.

 

PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS IN SPECIE

52

125.

 

PAYMENT OF SCRIP DIVIDENDS

52

126.

 

CAPITALISATION OF RESERVES

54

127.

 

CAPITALISATION OF RESERVES — EMPLOYEES’ SHARE SCHEMES

55

 

iii



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

 

128.

 

[OMITTED]

55

129.

 

RECORD DATES

55

 

 

 

 

ACCOUNTS

 

130.

 

TREASURER

56

131.

 

KEEPING AND INSPECTION OF ACCOUNTING RECORDS

56

132.

 

ACCOUNTS TO BE SENT TO SHAREHOLDERS, ETC.

56

133.

 

EXTERNAL AUDITOR

57

 

 

 

 

NOTICES

 

134.

 

NOTICES TO BE IN WRITING

57

135.

 

SERVICE OF NOTICES, DOCUMENTS AND INFORMATION ON SHAREHOLDERS

57

136.

 

EVIDENCE OF SERVICE

58

137.

 

NOTICE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES, ETC.

59

138.

 

NOTICE IN CASE OF ENTITLEMENT BY TRANSMISSION

59

139.

 

VALIDATION OF DOCUMENTS IN ELECTRONIC FORM

59

 

 

 

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

140.

 

DISPUTE RESOLUTION

60

141.

 

DESTRUCTION OF DOCUMENTS

60

142.

 

WINDING UP

61

143.

 

INDEMNITY

61

 

 

 

 

NOTIFICATION OF INTERESTS IN SHARES

 

144.

 

INTERESTS IN SHARES

62

 

 

 

 

TRANSACTIONS WITH INTERESTED SHAREHOLDERS

 

145.

 

TRANSACTIONS WITH INTERESTED SHAREHOLDERS

65

 

 

 

 

 

iv


 

COMPANY NO. 10747130

 

THE COMPANIES ACT 2006

 


 

PUBLIC COMPANY LIMITED BY SHARES

 


 

FORM OF AMENDED AND RESTATED
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

 

OF

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC
(Adopted by special resolution on                           , 2017)

 

PRELIMINARY

 

1.                                       ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

 

This document comprises the articles of association of the Company. No regulations contained in any statute or subordinate legislation, including the regulations contained in Schedule 3 to The Companies (Model Articles) Regulations 2008, apply to the Company.

 

2.                                       INTERPRETATION

 

2.1                                In these Articles, unless the context otherwise requires, the following words and expressions not otherwise defined herein have the following meanings:

 

acting in concert ” has the meaning given to it in the Takeover Code, provided that no person shall be deemed to be acting in concert with any other person solely as a result of that other person having an interest in shares held by the same Depositary (acting solely in the Depositary’s capacity as such);

 

Act ” means the Companies Act of 2006 and every other enactment from time to time in force concerning companies (including any orders, regulations or other subordinate legislation made under the Companies Act of 2006 or any such other enactment), so far as they apply to or affect the Company;

 

Articles ” means the articles of association of the Company as altered from time to time;

 

auditors ” or “ external auditors ” means the auditors from time to time of the Company or, in the case of joint auditors, any one of them;

 

beneficial ownership ” or “ beneficially owned ” or any correlative terms have the same meaning as in Regulation 13D under the Exchange Act;

 

board ” means the directors or any of them acting as the board of directors from time to time;

 

business day ” means a day (excluding Saturday or Sunday) on which banks generally are open in London, England and New York, New York, United States for the transaction of normal banking business;

 

certificated ” in relation to a share means a share that is represented by a paper certificate, i.e. , not in electronic form;

 



 

clear days ” means in relation to a period of notice that period excluding the day when the notice is given or deemed to be given and the day for which it is given or on which it is to take effect;

 

committee ” means a committee of the board unless the context suggests otherwise;

 

Company ” means Venator Materials plc (register no. 10747130);

 

company ” includes any body corporate (not being a corporation sole) or association of persons, whether or not a company within the meaning of the Act;

 

Depositary ” means any depositary, clearing agency, custodian, nominee or similar entity authorised under arrangements entered into by the Company or otherwise approved by the board that holds legal title to shares for the purposes of facilitating beneficial ownership of such shares (or the transfer thereof) by other persons, and may include a person that holds, or is interested directly or indirectly, including through a nominee, in, shares, or rights or interests in respect thereof, and that issues certificates, instruments, securities or other documents of title, or maintains accounts, evidencing or recording the entitlement of the holders thereof, or account holders, to or to receive such shares, rights or interests and shall include, where so approved by the board, the trustees (acting in their capacity as such) of any employees’ share scheme established by the Company;

 

director ” means a director of the Company;

 

electronic address ” means any number or address used for the purposes of sending or receiving notices, documents or information by electronic means;

 

electronic form ” has the same meaning as in section 1168 of the Act and, for the avoidance of doubt, shall include a data file or a telephonically communicated datagram or other paperless record that may be retained, retrieved and reviewed and that may be reproduced in paper form through an electronic process;

 

electronic means ” has the same meaning as in section 1168 of the Act and, for the avoidance of doubt, shall include via the Internet or by means of a telephonically communicated datagram;

 

entitled by transmission ” means, in relation to a share, entitled as a consequence of the death or bankruptcy of a shareholder, or as a result of another event giving rise to a transmission of entitlement by operation of law;

 

Exchange Act ” means the United States Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, including the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder;

 

financial year ” in relation to the Company is determined as provided in section 390 of the Act;

 

hard copy form ” and “ hard copy ” have the same meanings as in section 1168 of the Act;

 

holder ” or “ shareholder ” in relation to shares means the member whose name is entered in the register as the holder of the shares;

 

independent ” or “ independence ” in relation to a director or proposed director means that such director or proposed director is independent within the meaning of applicable rules promulgated by the SEC under the Exchange Act (including, to the extent applicable to the individual’s position or proposed position on the board, Rule Section 10A—3 promulgated by the SEC) and/or the NYSE or, if applicable, as defined from time to time by resolution of the board;

 

interest in shares ” includes, where the context permits, “ interests in securities ” as defined in the Takeover Code and, for the avoidance of doubt, includes, without duplication, beneficial ownership, and “ interested in shares ” and “ share interest ” will be construed accordingly;

 

2



 

NYSE ” means the New York Stock Exchange;

 

office ” means the registered office of the Company;

 

Ordinary Shareholders ” means the holders for the time being of the allotted and issued Ordinary Shares;

 

Ordinary Shares ” means the ordinary shares with a nominal value of $0.001 each in the share capital of the Company;

 

organisation ” means any firm, body corporate, company, corporation, limited liability company, partnership, unincorporated association, government, state or agency of state, association, joint venture, trust or employee benefit plan, in each case whether or not having a separate legal personality;

 

paid ” “ paid up ” and “ paid—up ” mean paid or credited as paid;

 

paid—up amount ” means, in respect of any share, the amount paid or credited as paid up on that share, including sums paid, or credited as paid, by way of premium;

 

Parent ” means Huntsman Corp., a Delaware corporation, any member of the Huntsman Group (as defined in the Separation Agreement) and any person to whom Huntsman Corp.’s rights under the Separation Agreement are transferred;

 

person ” shall include any individual or organisation, in each case whether or not having a separate legal personality;

 

public announcement ” means disclosure in a press release reported by a United Kingdom or United States news service or in a document filed or furnished by the Company with or to the SEC pursuant to Section 13, 14 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act;

 

qualifying person ” means (a) a shareholder of the Company (other than a shareholder who, under these Articles or any restrictions imposed on any shares, is not entitled to attend, speak or vote, whether in person or by proxy, at any general meeting of the Company) or his validly appointed attorney or proxy or a corporate representative of such attorney or proxy in relation to any general meeting of the Company or (b) a person authorised under section 323 of the Act to act as the representative of a corporation in relation to any general meeting of the Company. The board is entitled, acting in good faith and without further enquiry, to assume the validity of any votes cast in person or by proxy;

 

recognised financial institution ” means a recognised clearing house acting in relation to a recognised investment exchange or a nominee of a recognised clearing house acting in that way or of a recognised investment exchange that is designated for the purposes of section 778(2) of the Act;

 

recognised investment exchange ” has the meaning given to it in the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000;

 

register ” means the register of members of the Company kept pursuant to section 113 of the Act or the issuer register of members and Operator register of members maintained pursuant to Regulation 20 of the Uncertificated Securities Regulations and, where the context requires, any register maintained by the Company or the Operator of persons holding any renounceable right of allotment of a share and cognate expressions shall be construed accordingly;

 

seal ” means the common seal of the Company and includes any official seal maintained by the Company by virtue of sections 49 or 50 of the Act;

 

SEC ” means the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission;

 

3



 

secretary ” means the secretary of the Company or any other person appointed by the board to perform the duties of the secretary of the Company, including a joint, assistant or deputy secretary;

 

Separation Agreement ” means that certain agreement between the Company and Huntsman Corp. dated, 2017;

 

share ” means any share (of whatever class or denomination) in the share capital of the Company, and “ shares ” shall be construed accordingly;

 

Shareholder Associated Person ” of any shareholder means (a) any beneficial owner of shares on whose behalf any proposal or nomination is made by such shareholder; (b) any affiliates or associates of such shareholder or any beneficial owner described in paragraph (a); or (c) any other person with whom any of the persons described in paragraphs (a) and (b) is acting in concert, or, has any agreement, arrangement or understanding (whether written or oral or formal or informal) to cooperate for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting (except pursuant to a revocable proxy given to such person in response to a public proxy solicitation made generally by such person in accordance with the Exchange Act to all shareholders entitled to vote at any meeting) or disposing of any shares or to cooperate in obtaining, changing or influencing the control or to frustrate the successful outcome of an offer (except independent financial, legal and other advisors acting in the ordinary course of their respective businesses);

 

Takeover Code ” means the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers as promulgated by the Takeover Panel, as amended and/or supplemented from time to time;

 

Takeover Panel ” means the Panel on Takeovers and Mergers or such other authority designated as the supervisory authority in the United Kingdom to carry out certain regulatory functions in relation to takeovers under the EC Directive on Takeover Bids (2004/25/EC);

 

Trigger Date ” means the first date on which Parent ceases to beneficially own at least 15% of the outstanding Voting Shares;

 

uncertificated proxy instruction ” means a properly authenticated dematerialised instruction and/or other instruction or notification sent by means of a relevant system and received by such participant in that system acting on behalf of the Company, in such form and subject to such terms and conditions as may from time to time be prescribed by the board (subject always to the facilities and requirements of the relevant system concerned);

 

Uncertificated Securities Regulations ” means the Uncertificated Securities Regulations 2001;

 

“uncertificated share”  means, in relation to a share, a share title recorded in the register as being held in uncertificated form and title to which, by virtue of the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, may be transferred by means of a relevant system and references in these Articles to a share being “ uncertificated” or held in “ uncertificated form ” shall be construed accordingly;

 

United Kingdom ” means Great Britain and Northern Ireland;

 

United States ” means the United States of America; and

 

Voting Shares ” means with respect to any company or corporation, shares of any class entitled to vote generally in the election of directors and, with respect to any entity that is not a company or corporation, any equity interest entitled to vote generally in the election of the governing body of such entity.

 

2.2                                The expressions “issuer register,” “Operator,” “Operator—instruction,” “Operator register of members,” “participating issuer,” “participating security” and “relevant system” have the same meanings as in the Uncertificated Securities Regulations.

 

4



 

2.3                                All references in these Articles to the giving of instructions by means of a relevant system shall be deemed to relate to a properly authenticated dematerialised instruction given in accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations. The giving of such instructions shall be subject to:

 

(a)                                  the facilities and requirements of the relevant system;

 

(b)                                  the Uncertificated Securities Regulations; and

 

(c)                                   the extent to which such instructions are permitted by, or practicable under, the rules and practices from time to time of the Operator of the relevant system.

 

2.4                                Where an ordinary resolution of the Company is expressed to be required for any purpose, a special resolution is also effective for that purpose.

 

2.5                                References to a “ meeting ” shall not be taken as requiring more than one person to be present if any quorum requirement can be satisfied by one person.

 

2.6                                References to a “ debenture ” include debenture stock, bonds and any other debt securities of an organisation, whether or not constituting a charge on the assets of the organisation.

 

2.7                                The word “ directors ” in the context of the exercise of any power contained in these Articles includes any committee consisting of one or more directors, any director holding executive office and any officer, manager or agent of the Company to which or, as the case may be, to whom the power in question has been delegated.

 

2.8                                Powers of delegation shall not be restrictively construed, but the widest interpretation shall be given to them.

 

2.9                                No power of delegation shall be limited by the existence or, except where expressly provided by the terms of delegation, the exercise of that or any other power of delegation.

 

2.10                         Except where expressly provided by the terms of delegation, the delegation of a power shall not exclude the concurrent exercise of that power by any other body or person who is for the time being authorised to exercise it under these Articles or under another delegation of the power.

 

2.11                         Except for words and expressions defined in these Articles, unless the context otherwise requires, words or expressions contained in these Articles have the same meanings as in the Act, but excluding any statutory modification thereof not in force when these Articles become binding on the Company.

 

2.12                         Subject to the Act, references to a document or writing being executed include references to its being signed or executed under hand or under seal or by any other method, including electronically, via the Internet or by means of a telephonically communicated datagram, provided that such method includes means to confirm the identity of the person or persons purporting to execute such document or writing, such as by use of a confidential identification or control number or other equivalent means determined by the board.

 

2.13                         Unless the context otherwise requires, any reference to “ writing ” or “ written ” shall include any method of reproducing words or text in a legible and non—transitory form, and documents or information sent, stored or supplied in electronic form or made available on a website are in “writing” for the purposes of these Articles.

 

2.14                         Save where specifically required or indicated otherwise, words referencing one gender shall be treated as including any gender, words referencing individuals shall be treated as including organisations and vice versa, words referencing the singular shall be treated as including the plural and vice versa.

 

5



 

2.15                         Any reference to “ include ” or “ including ” (or any similar term) is not to be construed as implying any limitation and general words introduced by the word “ other ” (or any similar term) shall not be given a restrictive meaning by reason of the fact that they are preceded by words indicating a particular class of acts, matters or things.

 

2.16                         Article headings are inserted for ease of reference only and shall not affect the construction of these Articles.

 

2.17                         References to any statutory provision or statute include any modification or re—enactment thereof for the time being in force and all orders, regulations or other subordinate legislation made thereunder. This Article does not affect the interpretation of Article 2.11.

 

3.                                       LIABILITY OF SHAREHOLDERS

 

The liability of the shareholders is limited to the amount, if any, unpaid on the shares in the Company held by them.

 

4.                                       CHANGE OF NAME

 

The Company may change its name by resolution of the board.

 

SHARES

 

5.                                       SHARE CAPITAL

 

5.1                                The authorized share capital of the Company shall be Ordinary Shares.

 

5.2                                The Ordinary Shares shall have such rights as are provided for by these Articles. On a return of capital of the Company on a winding up, any Shareholder who is an organisation that is a subsidiary or subsidiary undertaking of the Company shall only be entitled to receive out of the assets of the Company available for distribution to its shareholders the nominal value paid up on any shares for the Ordinary Shares held by such shareholders, but shall not be entitled to any further participation in the distribution of any assets of the Company.

 

6.                                       ALLOTMENT

 

6.1                                Subject to the provisions of the Act and any relevant authority given by the Company in a general meeting, the board may exercise any power of the Company to allot shares in one or more series, or to grant rights to subscribe for or to convert or exchange any security into or for shares or its successors in one or more series, to such persons or excluding such persons, at such times and on such terms as the board may determine.

 

6.2                                The board may at any time after the allotment of a share, but before a person has been entered in the register as the holder of the share, recognise a renunciation of the share by the allottee in favour of another person and may grant to an allottee a right to effect a renunciation on such terms and conditions as the board thinks fit.

 

7.                                       POWER TO ATTACH RIGHTS

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act and to any rights attached to any existing shares, any share may be allotted or issued with nominal value in any currency and with, or have attached to it, such powers, designations, preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights and qualifications, limitations and restrictions attaching thereto as the board may determine, including rights to (a) receive dividends (which may include rights to receive preferential or cumulative dividends), (b) distributions made on a winding up of the Company and (c) be convertible into, or exchangeable for, shares of any other

 

6



 

class or classes or of any other series of the same or any other class or classes of shares, at such prices or prices (subject to the Act) or at such rates of exchange and with such adjustments as may be determined by the board.

 

8.                                       VARIATION OF CLASS RIGHTS

 

8.1                                Where there are two or more classes of shares in issue, and subject to the provisions of the Act, the rights attached to a class of shares may be varied or abrogated (whether or not the Company is being wound up) either with the consent in writing of the holders of at least three—fourths of the nominal amount of the issued shares of that class (excluding any shares held as treasury shares) or with the sanction of a special resolution passed at a separate meeting of the holders of the issued shares of that class validly held in accordance with Article 8.3 and other relevant provisions of these Articles.

 

8.2                                The rights attached to a class of shares are not, unless otherwise expressly provided for in the rights attaching to those shares, varied or deemed to be varied by the allotment or issue of, or the grant of rights to subscribe for or to convert or exchange any security into or for, further shares ranking in priority to or pari passu with or subsequent to them or by the purchase or redemption by the Company of its own shares in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

 

8.3                                All Articles relating to general meetings will apply to any class meeting, with any necessary changes. The following changes will also apply:

 

(a)                                  a quorum for the purposes of any class meeting or adjournment thereof will comprise qualifying persons, who together hold at least 50% of the voting rights of the issued shares of the relevant class. For the purposes of this Article 8.3, a proxy, attorney or other representative of a shareholder will be considered to be entitled to cast only the voting rights to which his appointment relates and not any other voting rights held by the shareholder he represents; and

 

(b)                                  every qualifying person who is present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote is entitled to one vote for every share he has of the class (but this is subject to any special rights or restrictions which are attached to any class of shares).

 

8.4                                The provisions of Articles 8.1, 8.2 and 8.3 will apply to any variation or abrogation of rights of shares forming part of a class. Each part of the class which is being treated differently is treated as a separate class in applying this Article.

 

9.                                       REDEEMABLE SHARES

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act and to any rights attached to any existing shares, shares may be issued that are to be redeemed or are liable to be redeemed at the option of the Company or the holder, and the board may determine the terms, conditions and manner of redemption of any shares so issued.

 

10.                                COMMISSION AND BROKERAGE

 

The Company may exercise all the powers conferred or permitted by the provisions of the Act of paying commission or brokerage. Subject to the provisions of the Act, any such commission or brokerage may be satisfied by the payment of cash or by the allotment of fully or partly paid shares or by the grant of an option to call for such an allotment or by any combination of such methods as the board thinks fit.

 

11.                                TRUSTS NOT RECOGNISED

 

Except as ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction or as required by law, no person shall be recognised by the Company as holding any share on trust and (except as otherwise provided by these Articles or by law) the Company shall not be bound by or recognise any interest in any share except an absolute right in the holder to the whole of the share, whether or not the Company shall have notice thereof.

 

7



 

12.                                ALTERATION OF SHARE CAPITAL

 

12.1                         Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may:

 

(a)                                  increase its share capital by allotting new shares in accordance with the Act and these Articles;

 

(b)                                  by ordinary resolution consolidate and divide all or any of its share capital into shares of a larger nominal amount than its existing shares;

 

(c)                                   by ordinary resolution sub—divide its shares, or any of them, into shares of a smaller nominal amount than its existing shares; and

 

(d)                                  by special resolution approve (subject to the confirmation of a court) a reduction of its share capital, any capital redemption reserve and any share premium account in any way.

 

13.                                PURCHASE OF OWN SHARES

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may purchase its own shares (including any redeemable shares). On any purchase by the Company of its own shares, neither the Company nor the board shall be required to select the shares to be purchased ratably or in any manner as between the holders of shares of the same class or as between them and the holders of shares of any other class or in accordance with the rights as to dividends or capital conferred by any class of shares.

 

14.                                EVIDENCE OF OWNERSHIP OF SHARES

 

Subject to the Act, evidence of ownership of legal title in shares of the Company may be in any form authorised by the board, including in certificated form, uncertificated form, electronically, by book—entry or as may otherwise be permitted by law.

 

15.                                UNCERTIFICATED SHARES

 

15.1                         Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Uncertificated Securities Regulations and the facilities and requirements of any relevant system concerned, the board may permit the holding of shares in any class of shares in uncertificated form, including, resolving that a class of shares shall become a participating security and/or that a class of shares shall cease to be a participating security.

 

15.2                         Uncertificated shares of a class are not to be regarded as forming a separate class from certificated shares of that class as a consequence of such shares being held in uncertificated form or of any provision in these Articles or the Uncertificated Securities Regulations applying only to such shares.

 

15.3                         Any share of a class that is a participating security may be changed from a certificated share to an uncertificated share and from an uncertificated share to a certificated share in accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations.

 

15.4                         The Company may give notice to a shareholder requiring the shareholder to change uncertificated shares to certificated shares by the time stated in the notice. The notice may also state that the shareholder may not

 

8



 

change certificated shares to uncertificated shares. If the shareholder does not comply with the notice, the board may authorise a person to change the uncertificated shares to certificated shares in the name and on behalf of the shareholder.

 

15.5                         While a class of shares is a participating security, these Articles only apply to an uncertificated share of that class to the extent that these Articles are consistent with:

 

(a)                                  the holding of such shares of that class in uncertificated form;

 

(b)                                  the transfer of title to such shares of that class by means of a relevant system; and

 

(c)                                   the Uncertificated Securities Regulations.

 

15.6                         Notwithstanding any provisions of these Articles to the contrary, the directors shall have power to implement any arrangements they may, in their absolute discretion, think fit in relation to the evidencing of issue or title to and transfer of an uncertificated share and any related procedures (subject to the Uncertificated Securities Regulations and the facilities and requirements of any relevant system concerned).

 

15.7                         The Company shall enter or cause to be entered on the register how many shares are held by each shareholder in uncertificated form and in certificated form and shall maintain or cause to be maintained the register in each case as required by the Uncertificated Securities Regulations and any relevant system concerned. Unless the directors otherwise determine, holdings of the same holder or joint holders in certificated form and uncertificated form shall be treated as separate holdings.

 

15.8                         The Company shall be entitled to assume that the entries on any record of securities maintained by it in accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations and regularly reconciled with the relevant Operator register of securities are a complete and accurate reproduction of the particulars entered in the Operator register of securities and shall accordingly not be liable in respect of any act or thing done or omitted to be done by or on behalf of the Company in reliance upon such assumption; in particular, any provision of these Articles that requires or envisages that action will be taken in reliance on information contained in the register shall be construed to permit that action to be taken in reliance on information contained in any relevant record of securities (as so maintained and reconciled).

 

15.9                         Any instruction given by means of a relevant system as referred to in these Articles shall be a dematerialised instruction given in accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, the facilities and requirements of the relevant system and the Operator’s rules and practices.

 

15.10                  Where the Company is entitled under the Act, the Operator’s rules and practices, these Articles or otherwise to dispose of, forfeit, enforce a lien over or impose a restriction on or sell or otherwise procure the sale of any shares of a class that is a participating security that are held in uncertificated form, the board may take such steps (subject to the Uncertificated Securities Regulations and to such rules and practices) as may be required or appropriate, by instruction by means of the relevant system or otherwise, to effect such disposal, forfeiture, enforcement, imposition or sale including by:

 

(a)                                  requesting or requiring the deletion of any computer—based entries in the relevant system relating to the holding of such shares in uncertificated form;

 

(b)                                  altering such computer—based entries so as to divest the holder of such shares of the power to transfer such shares other than to a person selected or approved by the Company for the purpose of such transfer;

 

(c)                                   requiring any holder of such shares, by notice in writing to him, to change his holding of such uncertificated shares into certificated form within any specified period;

 

9



 

(d)                                  requiring any holder of such shares to take such steps as may be necessary to sell or transfer such shares as directed by the Company;

 

(e)                                   otherwise rectify or change the register in respect of any such shares in such manner as the board considers appropriate (including by entering the name of a transferee into the register as the next holder of such shares); and/or

 

(f)                                    appointing any person to take any steps in the name of any holder of such shares as may be required to change such shares from uncertificated form to certificated form and/or to effect the transfer of such shares (and such steps shall be effective as if they had been taken by such holder).

 

15.11                  The provisions of Articles 16 and 17 shall not apply to uncertificated shares.

 

SHARE CERTIFICATES

 

16.                                RIGHT TO CERTIFICATE

 

16.1                         A person (except a person to whom the Company is not required by law to issue a certificate) whose name is entered in the register as a holder of a certificated share is entitled, without charge, to receive within two months of allotment or lodgement with the Company of a transfer to him of those shares or within two months after the relevant instruction is received by the Company (or within any other period as the terms of issue of the shares provide) one certificate for all the certificated shares of a class registered in his name or, in the case of certificated shares of more than one class being registered in his name, to a separate certificate for each class of shares.

 

16.2                         Where a shareholder transfers part of his shares comprised in a certificate, he is entitled, without charge, to one certificate for the balance of certificated shares retained by him.

 

16.3                         The Company is not bound to issue more than one certificate for certificated shares held jointly by two or more persons, and delivery of a certificate to one joint holder is sufficient delivery to all joint holders.

 

16.4                         A share certificate shall specify the number and class and the distinguishing numbers (if any) of the shares in respect of which it is issued and the amount paid up on the shares. In addition, it shall specify the powers, designations, preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights of such shares and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such rights, set forth in full or summarised on the face or back of the certificate. Alternatively, the Company may set forth on the face or back of the certificate a statement that the Company will furnish, without charge, to the shareholder holding such certificate and who so requests it, the powers, designations, preferences and relative participating, optional or other special rights of such shares and the qualifications, limitations or restrictions of such rights.

 

16.5                         A certificate shall be issued under the seal, which may be affixed to or printed on it, or in such other manner as the board may approve, having regard to the terms of allotment or issue of the shares.

 

16.6                         The issued shares of a particular class that are fully paid up and rank pari passu for all purposes shall not bear a distinguishing number. All other shares shall bear a distinguishing number.

 

16.7                         Notwithstanding anything in this Article 16, but subject to the Act, the board may from time to time determine, either generally or in any particular case, the method by which any share certificate issued by the Company in respect of the Company’s shares, debentures or other securities shall be authenticated or executed by or on behalf of the Company and, in particular:

 

(a)                                  whether to dispense with the need to affix the common seal, or any official seal, of the Company to such certificate;

 

10


 

(b)                                  the manner, and by whom, any such certificate is to be signed, and may dispense with the need for such certificate to be signed or executed in any way; and

 

(c)                                   whether to permit the signature or a facsimile of the signature of any person to be applied to such share certificate by any mechanical or electronic means in place of that person’s actual signature;

 

and any certificate issued in accordance with the requirements of the board shall, as against the Company, be prima facie evidence of the title of the person named in that certificate to the shares comprised in it.

 

17.                                REPLACEMENT CERTIFICATES

 

17.1                         Where a shareholder holds two or more certificates for shares of one class, the Company may at his request, on surrender of the original certificates and without charge, cancel the certificates and issue a single replacement certificate for certificated shares of that class.

 

17.2                         At the request of a shareholder, the Company may cancel a certificate and issue two or more in its place (representing certificated shares in such proportions as the shareholder may specify), on surrender of the original certificate and on payment of such reasonable sum as the Company may determine.

 

17.3                         Where a certificate is worn out or defaced, the Company may require the certificate to be delivered to it before issuing a replacement and cancelling the original. If a certificate is lost or destroyed, the Company may cancel it and issue a replacement certificate on such terms as to provision of evidence and indemnity (and/or bond) and to payment of any exceptional out—of—pocket expenses incurred by the Company in the investigation of that evidence and the preparation of that indemnity (and/or bond) as the Company may determine.

 

17.4                         Any or all of the signatures on a certificate may be facsimile. In case any officer, transfer agent or registrar who has signed or whose facsimile signature has been placed upon a certificate shall have ceased to be such officer, transfer agent or registrar before such certificate is issued, it may be issued by the Company with the same effect as if he were such officer, transfer agent or registrar at the date of issue.

 

LIEN

 

18.                                COMPANY’S LIEN ON SHARES NOT FULLY PAID

 

18.1                         The Company has a first and paramount lien on all partly paid shares for an amount payable in respect of the share, whether the due date for payment has arrived or not. The lien applies to all dividends from time to time declared or other amounts payable in respect of the share.

 

18.2                         The board may either generally or in a particular case declare a share to be wholly or partly exempt from the provisions of this Article. Unless otherwise agreed with the transferee, the registration of a transfer of a share operates as a waiver of the Company’s lien (if any) on that share.

 

19.                                ENFORCEMENT OF LIEN BY SALE

 

19.1                         For the purpose of enforcing the lien referred to in Article 18, the Company may sell all or any of the shares subject to the lien at such time or times and in such manner as the board may determine, provided that:

 

(a)                                  the due date for payment of the relevant amounts has arrived; and

 

(b)                                  the Company has served a written notice on the shareholder concerned (or on any person who is entitled to the shares by transmission or by operation of law) stating the amounts due, demanding payment thereof and giving notice that if payment has not been made within 14 clear days after the service of the notice that the Company intends to sell the shares.

 

11



 

19.2                         To give effect to such sale, the Company may authorise a person to transfer the shares in the name and on behalf of the shareholder (or any person who is entitled to the shares by transmission or by operation of law), or to cause the transfer of such shares, to the purchaser or his nominee. The purchaser is not bound to see to the application of the purchase money and the title of the transferee is not affected by an irregularity in or invalidity of the proceedings connected with the sale or transfer. Any instrument or exercise referred to in this Article 19.2 shall be effective as if it had been executed or exercised by the holder of, or the person entitled by transmission to, the shares to which it relates.

 

20.                                APPLICATION OF PROCEEDS OF SALE

 

The net proceeds of a sale effected under Article 19, after payment of the Company’s costs of the sale, shall be applied in or towards satisfaction of the amount in respect of which the lien exists. The balance (if any) shall (on surrender to the Company for cancellation of any certificate for the shares sold, or the provision of an indemnity (and/or bond) as to any lost or destroyed certificate required by the board and subject to a like lien for any amounts not presently payable as existed on the shares before the sale) be paid to the shareholder (or any person entitled to the shares by transmission or by operation of law) immediately before the sale.

 

CALLS ON SHARES

 

21.                                CALLS

 

The board may make calls on shareholders in respect of amounts unpaid on the shares held by them respectively (whether in respect of the nominal value or a premium) and not, by the terms of issue thereof, made payable on a fixed date. Each shareholder shall (on receiving at least 14 clear days’ notice specifying when and where payment is to be made) pay to the Company, at the time and place specified, the amount called as required by the notice. A call may be made payable by installments and may, at any time before receipt by the Company of an amount due, be revoked or postponed in whole or in part as the board may determine. A call is deemed made at the time when the resolution of the board authorising the call is passed. A person on whom a call is made remains liable to pay the amount called despite the subsequent transfer of the share in respect of which the call is made. The joint holders of a share are jointly and severally liable to pay all calls in respect of that share.

 

22.                                POWER TO DIFFERENTIATE

 

The board may make arrangements on the allotment or, subject to the terms of the allotment, on the issue of shares for a difference between the allottees or holders in the amounts or times of payment of a call on their shares or both.

 

23.                                INTEREST ON CALLS

 

If a sum called is not paid on or before the date fixed for payment, the person from whom it is payable shall pay interest on the unpaid amount from the day the unpaid amount is due until the day it has been paid and all costs, charges and expenses that the Company may have incurred by reason of such non—payment. The interest rate may be fixed by the terms of allotment or issue of the share or, if no rate is fixed, at such rate (not exceeding 8% per annum) as the board may determine. The board may waive payment of the interest in whole or in part.

 

24.                                PAYMENT IN ADVANCE

 

24.1                         The board may, if it thinks fit, receive from a shareholder all or part of the amounts uncalled and unpaid on shares held by him. A payment in advance of calls extinguishes to the extent of the payment the liability of the shareholder on the shares in respect of which it is made. The Company may pay interest on the amount paid in advance, or on so much of it as from time to time exceeds the amount called on the shares in respect

 

12



 

of which the payment in advance has been made, at such rate (not exceeding 8% per annum) as the board may determine.

 

24.2                         No sum paid up on a share in advance of a call shall entitle the shareholder to any portion of a dividend subsequently declared or paid in respect of any period prior to the date on which such sum would, but for such payment, become due and payable.

 

25.                                AMOUNTS DUE ON ALLOTMENT OR ISSUE TREATED AS CALLS

 

An amount (whether in respect of the nominal value or a premium) which by the terms of issue of a share becomes payable on allotment or issue or on a fixed date shall be deemed to be a call. In case of non—payment, the provisions of these Articles as to payment of interest, forfeiture or otherwise apply as if that amount has become payable by virtue of a call.

 

FORFEITURE

 

26.                                NOTICE IF CALL NOT PAID

 

If a shareholder fails to pay the whole of a call or an installment of a call by the date fixed for payment, the board may serve notice on the shareholder or on a person entitled automatically by law to the share in respect of which the call was made demanding payment of the unpaid amount, on a date not less than 14 clear days from the date of the notice, together with any interest that may have accrued on it and all costs, charges and expenses incurred by the Company by reason of the non—payment. The notice shall state:

 

(a)                                  the place where payment is to be made; and

 

(b)                                  that if the notice is not complied with the share in respect of which the call was made will be liable to be forfeited.

 

27.                                FORFEITURE FOR NON—COMPLIANCE

 

If the notice referred to in Article 26 is not complied with, any share in respect of which it is given may, at any time before the payment required by the notice (including interest, costs, charges and expenses) has been made, be forfeited by a resolution of the board. All dividends declared or other amounts due in respect of the forfeited share and not paid before the forfeiture shall also be forfeited.

 

28.                                NOTICE AFTER FORFEITURE

 

When a share has been forfeited, the Company shall serve notice of the forfeiture on the person who was before such forfeiture the holder of the share or the person entitled by transmission to the share. An entry of the fact and date of forfeiture shall be made in the register. No forfeiture shall be invalidated by any omission to provide such notice or to make such entry in the register.

 

29.                                DISPOSAL OF FORFEITED SHARES

 

29.1                         A forfeited share and all rights attaching to it shall become the property of the Company and may be sold, re—allotted or otherwise disposed of, either to the person who was before such forfeiture the holder thereof or to another person, on such terms and in such manner as the board may determine. The board may, if necessary, authorise a person to transfer a forfeited share to a new holder. The Company may receive the consideration (if any) for the share on its disposal and may register or cause the registration of the transferee as the holder of the share.

 

29.2                         The forfeiture or surrender of a share shall involve the extinction at the time of forfeiture or surrender of all interest in and all claims and demands against the Company in respect of the share as between the shareholder whose share is forfeited or surrendered and the Company, except only such of those rights and

 

13



 

liabilities as are by these Articles expressly saved, or as are by the Act given or imposed in the case of past shareholders.

 

29.3                         The board may, before a forfeited share has been sold, re—allotted or otherwise disposed of, annul the forfeiture on such conditions as it thinks fit.

 

29.4                         A statutory declaration that the declarant is a director or the secretary and that a share has been forfeited or sold to satisfy a lien of the Company on the date stated in the declaration is conclusive evidence of the facts stated in the declaration against all persons claiming to be entitled to the share. The declaration (subject if necessary to the transfer of the share) constitutes good title to the share and the person to whom the share is sold, re—allotted or disposed of is not bound to see to the application of the consideration (if any). His title to the share is not affected by an irregularity in or invalidity of the proceedings connected with the forfeiture or disposal.

 

30.                                ARREARS TO BE PAID NOTWITHSTANDING FORFEITURE

 

A person whose share has been forfeited ceases on forfeiture to be a shareholder in respect thereof and if that share is in certificated form shall surrender to the Company for cancellation any certificate for the forfeited share. A person remains liable to pay all calls, interest, costs, charges and expenses owing in respect of such share at the time of forfeiture, with interest, from the time of forfeiture until payment, at such rate as may be fixed by the terms of allotment or issue of such share or, if no rate is fixed, at such rate (not exceeding 8% per annum) as the board may determine. The board may if it thinks fit enforce payment without allowance for the value of such share at the time of forfeiture or for any consideration received on its disposal.

 

31.                                SURRENDER

 

The board may accept the surrender of a share liable to be forfeited and, in that case, references in these Articles to forfeiture include surrender.

 

TRANSFER OF SHARES

 

32.                                METHOD OF TRANSFER

 

32.1                         A shareholder may transfer all or any of his certificated shares by instrument of transfer in writing in any usual form or in any other form approved by the board, and the instrument shall be executed by or on behalf of the transferor and (in the case of a transfer of a share which is not fully paid) by or on behalf of the transferee.

 

32.2                         A shareholder may transfer all or any of his uncertificated shares in accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations.

 

32.3                         Subject to the provisions of the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, the transferor of an uncertificated share is deemed to remain the holder of the share until the name of the transferee is entered in the register in respect of it.

 

33.                                RIGHT TO REFUSE REGISTRATION

 

33.1                         In exceptional circumstances approved by the relevant regulatory authority (if any), the board may refuse to register a transfer of certificated shares provided that such refusal would not disturb the market in those shares. Subject to the requirements of the relevant listing rules (if applicable), the board may, in its absolute discretion, refuse to register the transfer of a certificated share that is not fully paid or the transfer of a certificated share on which the Company has a lien.

 

14



 

33.2                         The board may also, in its absolute discretion, refuse to register the transfer of a certificated share or a renunciation of a renounceable letter of allotment unless all of the following conditions are satisfied:

 

(a)                                  it is in respect of only one class of shares;

 

(b)                                  it is in favour of (as the case may be) a single transferee or renouncee or not more than four joint transferees or renouncees;

 

(c)                                   it is duly stamped (if required); and

 

(d)                                  it is delivered for registration to the office or such other place as the board may determine, accompanied by the certificate for the shares to which it relates (except in the case of a transfer by a recognised financial institution where a certificate has not been issued, or in the case of a renunciation) and such other evidence as the board may reasonably require to prove the title of the transferor or person renouncing and the due execution by him of the transfer or renunciation or, if the transfer or renunciation is executed by some other person on his behalf, the authority of that person to do so.

 

33.3                         If the board refuses to register the transfer of a certificated share it shall, within two months after the date on which the transfer was lodged with the Company, send notice of the refusal, together with its reasons for the refusal, to the transferee. An instrument of transfer which the board refuses to register shall (except in the case of suspected fraud) be returned to the person depositing it. Subject to Article 141, the Company may retain all instruments of transfer which are registered.

 

33.4                         In accordance with and subject to the provisions of the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, the Operator of the relevant system shall register a transfer of title to any uncertificated share or any renounceable right of allotment of a share that is a participating security held in uncertificated form unless the Uncertificated Securities Regulations permit the Operator of the relevant system to refuse to register such a transfer in certain circumstances, in which case, such Operator may refuse such registration.

 

33.5                         If the Operator of the relevant system refuses to register the transfer of an uncertificated share or of any such uncertificated renounceable right of allotment of a share, it shall, within the time period stipulated by the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, send notice of the refusal to the transferee.

 

33.6                         In accordance with and subject to the provisions of the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, where title to an uncertificated share is transferred by means of a relevant system to a person who is to hold such share in certificated form thereafter, the Company as participating issuer shall register the transfer in accordance with the relevant Operator—instruction, but so that the Company may refuse to register such a transfer in any circumstance permitted by the Uncertificated Securities Regulations.

 

33.7                         In accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, if the Company as participating issuer refuses to register the transfer of title to an uncertificated share transferred by means of a relevant system to a person who is to hold such share in certificated form thereafter, it shall, within two months after the date on which the Operator—instruction was received by the Company, send notice of the refusal, together with its reasons for the refusal, to the transferee.

 

34.                                NO FEES ON REGISTRATION

 

No fee shall be charged for registering the transfer of a share or the renunciation of a renounceable letter of allotment or other document or instructions relating to or affecting the title to a share or the right to transfer it or for making any other entry in the register.

 

15



 

TRANSMISSION OF SHARES

 

35.                                ON DEATH

 

35.1                         Except where a shareholder had (by giving notice to the Company in accordance with any manner approved by the board for such purpose) elected otherwise, the Company shall recognise only the personal representative or representatives of a deceased shareholder as having title to a share held by that shareholder alone or to which he alone was entitled. In the case of a share held jointly by more than one person, the Company may recognise only the survivor or survivors as being entitled to it.

 

35.2                         Nothing in these Articles releases the estate of a deceased shareholder from liability in respect of a share which has been solely or jointly held by him.

 

36.                                ELECTION OF PERSON ENTITLED BY TRANSMISSION

 

36.1                         A person becoming entitled by transmission to a share may, on production of such evidence as the board may require as to his entitlement, elect either to be registered as a shareholder or to have a person nominated by him registered as a shareholder.

 

36.2                         If he elects to be registered himself, he shall give notice to the Company to that effect. If he elects to have another person registered, he shall:

 

(a)                                  if it is a certificated share, execute an instrument of transfer of the share to that person; or

 

(b)                                  if it is an uncertificated share:

 

(i)                                      procure that instructions are provided by means of a relevant system to effect transfer of the share to that person; or

 

(ii)                                   change the share to a certificated share and execute an instrument of transfer of the share to that person.

 

36.3                         All the provisions of these Articles relating to the transfer of certificated shares apply to the notice or instrument of transfer (as the case may be) as if it were an instrument of transfer executed by the shareholder and his death, bankruptcy or other event giving rise to a transmission of entitlement had not occurred.

 

36.4                         The board may give notice requiring a person to make the election referred to in Article 36.1. If that notice is not complied with within 60 days, the board may withhold payment of all dividends and other amounts payable in respect of the share until notice of election has been made.

 

37.                                RIGHTS ON TRANSMISSION

 

Where a person becomes entitled by transmission to a share, the rights of the holder in relation to that share cease. The person entitled by transmission may, however, provide a good discharge for dividends and other amounts payable in respect of the share and, subject to Articles 36 and 120, has the rights to which he would be entitled if he were the holder of the share. The person entitled by transmission is not, however, before he is registered as the holder of the share, entitled in respect of it to receive notice of or exercise rights conferred on shareholders in relation to meetings of the Company or a separate meeting of the holders of a class of shares.

 

16



 

UNTRACED SHAREHOLDERS

 

38.                                POWER OF SALE

 

38.1                         Subject to the Uncertificated Securities Regulations, the Company may sell the share of a shareholder or of a person entitled by transmission at the best price reasonably obtainable at the time of sale, if:

 

(a)                                  during a period of not less than 12 years before the date of publication of the advertisements referred to in Article 38.1(c) (or, if published on two different dates, the first date) (the “ relevant period ”) at least three cash dividends have become payable in respect of the share;

 

(b)                                  throughout the relevant period no cheque, warrant or money order payable on the share has been presented by the holder of, or the person entitled by transmission to, the share to the paying bank of the relevant cheque, warrant or money order, no payment made by the Company by any other means permitted by Article 120.1 has been claimed or accepted and, so far as any director at the end of the relevant period is then aware, the Company has not at any time during the relevant period received any communication from the holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the share;

 

(c)                                   on expiry of the relevant period the Company has given notice of its intention to sell the share by advertisement in a newspaper in general circulation in the area of the address of the holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the share shown in the register; and

 

(d)                                  the Company has not, so far as the board is aware, during a further period of three months after the date of the advertisements referred to in Article 38.1(c) (or the later advertisement if the advertisements are published on different dates) and before the exercise of the power of sale received a communication from the holder of, or person entitled by transmission to, the share.

 

38.2                         Where a power of sale is exercisable over a share pursuant to Article 38.1, the Company may at the same time also sell any additional share issued in right of such share or in right of such an additional share previously so issued provided that the requirements of Articles 38.1(a) to 38.1(d) (as if the words “throughout the relevant period” were omitted from Article 38.1(b) and the words “on expiry of the relevant period” were omitted from Article 38.1(c)) shall have been satisfied in relation to the additional share.

 

38.3                         To give effect to a sale pursuant to Articles 38.1 or 38.2, the board may authorise a person to transfer the share in the name and on behalf of the holder of, or the person entitled by transmission to, the share, or to cause the transfer of such share, to the purchaser or his nominee and such transfer shall be effective as if it had been carried out by the registered shareholder, and in relation to an uncertificated share may require the Operator to convert the share into certificated form in accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations. The purchaser is not bound to see to the application of the purchase money and the title of the transferee is not affected by an irregularity or invalidity in the proceedings connected with the sale of the share.

 

39.                                APPLICATION OF PROCEEDS OF SALE

 

The Company shall be indebted to the shareholder or other person entitled by transmission to the share for the net proceeds of sale and shall carry any amount received on sale to a separate account. The Company is deemed to be a debtor and not a trustee in respect of that amount for the shareholder or other person. Any amount carried to the separate account may either be employed in the business of the Company or invested as the board may think fit. No interest is payable on that amount and the Company is not required to account for money earned on it.

 

17



 

FRACTIONS

 

40.                                FRACTIONS

 

40.1                         If, as the result of consolidation and division or sub—division of shares, shareholders would become entitled to fractions of a share, the board may on behalf of the shareholders deal with the fractions as it thinks fit. Subject to the provisions of the Act, the board may, in effecting divisions and/or consolidations, treat a shareholder’s shares held in certificated form and uncertificated form as separate holdings. In particular, the board may:

 

(a)                                  sell any shares representing fractions to a person (including, subject to the provisions of the Act, to the Company) and distribute the net proceeds of sale in due proportion amongst the persons entitled or, if the board so determines, some or all of the sum raised on a sale may be retained for the benefit of the Company; or

 

(b)                                  subject to the provisions of the Act, allot or issue to a shareholder credited as fully paid by way of capitalisation the minimum number of shares required to round up his holding of shares to a number which, following consolidation and division or sub—division, leaves a whole number of shares (such allotment or issue being deemed to have been effected immediately before consolidation or sub—division, as the case may be).

 

40.2                         To give effect to a sale pursuant to Article 40.1(a), the board may arrange for the shares representing the fractions to be entered in the register as certificated shares. The board may also authorise a person to execute a transfer of the shares sold on behalf of the shareholders so entitled, or, in respect of uncertificated shares, nominate any person to transfer such shares in accordance with the facilities and requirements of the relevant system concerned or, in either case, in accordance with the directions of the purchaser thereof or any other person nominated by the purchaser and may cause the name of the purchaser or his nominee to be entered in the register as the holder of the shares comprised in any such transfer. The purchaser is not bound to see to the application of the purchase money and the title of the transferee to the shares is not affected by an irregularity or invalidity in the proceedings connected with the sale.

 

40.3                         If shares are allotted or issued pursuant to Article 40.1(b), the amount required to pay up those shares may be capitalised as the board thinks fit out of amounts standing to the credit of reserves (including a share premium account, capital redemption reserve and profit and loss account), whether or not available for distribution, and applied in paying up in full the appropriate number of shares. A resolution of the board capitalising part of the reserves has the same effect as if the capitalisation had been effected pursuant to Article 126. In relation to the capitalisation the board may exercise all the powers conferred on it by Article 126.

 

GENERAL MEETINGS

 

41.                                ANNUAL GENERAL MEETINGS

 

The Company shall hold annual general meetings in accordance with the requirements of the Act. Without prejudice to these Articles, such meetings shall be convened by the board at such times and places as it thinks fit. General meetings shall include annual general meetings unless expressly specified to the contrary.

 

42.                                CONVENING OF GENERAL MEETINGS

 

The board, the chairman, the chief executive officer, the president or the secretary may call a general meeting whenever, and at any place it or he thinks fit. A general meeting may also be convened in accordance with Article 88.

 

18



 

43.                                LENGTH AND FORM OF NOTICE

 

43.1                         Subject to the provisions of the Act, an annual general meeting shall be called by not less than 21 clear days’ notice and not more than 60 clear days’ notice and all other general meetings shall be called by not less than 14 clear days’ notice and not more than 60 clear days’ notice.

 

43.2                         Subject to the provisions of the Act, and although called by shorter notice than that specified in Article 43.1, a general meeting is deemed to have been duly called if it is so agreed

 

(a)                                  in the case of an annual general meeting, by all the shareholders entitled to attend and vote at the meeting; and

 

(b)                                  in the case of a general meeting (other than an annual general meeting), by a majority in number of the shareholders having a right to attend and vote at the meeting, being a majority who together hold not less than 95% in nominal value for the shares giving that right.

 

43.3                         The notice of meeting shall:

 

(a)                                  if it is a notice calling an annual general meeting, state that the meeting is an annual general meeting;

 

(b)                                  specify the time, the date and the place of the meeting (including any satellite meeting place arranged for the purpose of Article 55, which shall be identified as such in the notice of meeting);

 

(c)                                   if the meeting is convened to consider a special resolution, include the text of the resolution and specify the intention to propose the resolution as a special resolution; and

 

(d)                                  state, with reasonable prominence, that a shareholder is entitled to appoint another person as his proxy to exercise all or any of his rights to attend and to speak and vote at the meeting and to appoint more than one proxy in relation to the meeting (provided that each proxy is appointed to exercise the rights attached to a different share or shares held by him), and that a proxy need not also be a shareholder.

 

43.4                         The notice of meeting shall be given to the shareholders (other than any who, under the provisions of these Articles or the terms of allotment or issue of shares, are not entitled to receive notice), to the directors and to the auditors.

 

43.5                         The board may determine that persons entitled to receive notices of such meeting are those persons entered on the register at the close of business on a day determined by the board (which shall not be more than 60 days nor less than 10 days before the date for the holding of such meeting), provided that, if the Company is a participating issuer, the day determined by the board shall not be more than 21 days before the day that the relevant notice of the meeting is being given.

 

43.6                         The notice of meeting must also specify a time (which shall not be more than 60 days (or, if less, the maximum period permitted by the Act) nor less than 10 days (or, if the maximum period permitted by the Act is less than 10 days, such date that is the maximum period permitted by the Act) before the date for the holding of the meeting) by which a person must be entered on the register in order to have the right to attend or vote at the meeting. Changes to entries on the register after the time so specified in the notice shall be disregarded in determining the rights of any person to so attend or vote. In calculating the period referred to in this Article 43.6, if the maximum period permitted by the Act is less than 10 days, no account shall be taken of any part of a day that is not a working day.

 

43.7                         The notice of meeting shall include details of any arrangements made for the purpose of Article 55 making it clear that participation in those arrangements will amount to attendance at the meeting to which the notice relates.

 

19



 

43.8                         Where the Company has given an electronic address in any notice of meeting, any document or information relating to proceedings at the meeting may be sent by electronic means to that address, subject to any conditions or limitations specified in the relevant notice of meeting.

 

44.                                OMISSION TO SEND NOTICE

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act, the accidental omission to give notice of a meeting or any resolution intended to be moved at a meeting or any document relating to a meeting, or the non—receipt of any such notice, resolution or document by a person entitled to receive any such notice, resolution or document, shall not invalidate the proceedings at that meeting.

 

45.                                POSTPONEMENT OF GENERAL MEETINGS

 

If the board, in its absolute discretion, considers that it is impractical, inadvisable or unreasonable for any reason to hold a general meeting at the time or place specified in the notice calling the general meeting, it may move and/or postpone the general meeting to another time and/or place. When a meeting is so moved and/or postponed, public notice of the time and place of the moved and/or postponed meeting shall (if practical) be made. Notice of the business to be transacted at such moved and/or postponed meeting is not required. The board must take reasonable steps to ensure that qualifying persons trying to attend the general meeting at the original time and/or place are informed of the new arrangements for the general meeting. Proxy forms can be delivered as specified in Article 63 until the time for holding the rearranged meeting. Any moved and/or postponed meeting may also be further moved and/or postponed under this Article.

 

46.                                SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS AND NOMINATIONS

 

46.1                         No person (a “ nominee ”) shall be appointed or reappointed as a director at any general meeting unless:

 

(a)                                  he is recommended by the board; or

 

(b)                                  nominated by a shareholder who was a shareholder of record at the time of giving notice required by these Articles and at the time of the general meeting, i s entitled to vote at the general meeting and complies with the notice procedures and other requirements set forth in these Articles and the following information has been delivered in writing (a “ notice ”) to the secretary at the office:

 

(i)                                      in relation to each nominee:

 

(A)                                all information relating to such nominee and its nominating shareholder group that is required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filing required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for election of directors in a contested election (even if a contested election is not involved), or is otherwise required, in each case pursuant to Section 14 under the Exchange Act (including such person’s written consent to being named in the proxy statement as a nominee and to serving as a director if elected);

 

(B)                                a description of all direct and indirect compensation and other material monetary agreements, arrangements and understandings (whether written or oral) during the past three years, and any other material relationships, between or among such nominee and its affiliates and associates and anyone acting in concert with any of them, on the one hand, and any member of its nominating shareholder group, on the other hand, including  all information that would be required to be disclosed pursuant to Item 404 of Regulation S—K promulgated by the SEC under the Exchange Act if the nominating shareholder group were the “registrant” for purposes of such rule and the nominee were a director or executive officer of such registrant; and

 

20


 

(C)                                a completed questionnaire (the form of which questionnaire shall be provided by the secretary upon written request) signed by the nominee with respect to the background and qualifications of such nominee and the background of each member of its nominating shareholder group, warranting and representing that:

 

(1)                                  neither such nominee nor any member of its nominating shareholder group is, nor will become, a party to any agreement, arrangement, understanding (whether written or oral) or relationship with, and has not given any commitment or assurance to, any person as to how the nominee, if appointed as a director, will act or vote on any issue or question (a “ Voting Commitment ”) that has not been disclosed to the Company, including any Voting Commitment that could limit or interfere with such nominee’s ability to comply, if appointed as a director, with such nominee’s fiduciary duties under applicable law;

 

(2)                                  neither such nominee nor any member of its nominating shareholder group is, nor will become, a party to any agreement, arrangement, understanding (whether written or oral) or relationship with any person other than the Company with respect to any direct or indirect compensation, reimbursement or indemnification in connection with service or action as a director that has not been disclosed to the Company;

 

(3)                                  such nominee, in their individual capacity and on behalf of any member of its nominating shareholder group would be in compliance, if appointed as a director, and (save as authorised by the board) will comply with all applicable corporate governance, conflict of interest, confidentiality, securities ownership and trading policies and guidelines of the Company and any other policies and guidelines of the Company applicable to directors;

 

(4)                                  such nominee irrevocably submits his resignation as a director effective upon a finding by a court of competent jurisdiction that such nominee has breached such written representation and agreement; and

 

(5)                                  such other information as may reasonably be required by the Company to determine the eligibility of such nominee to serve as an independent director or that could be material to a reasonable shareholder’s understanding of the independence, or lack thereof, of such nominee; and

 

(ii)                                   in relation to any nominating shareholder:

 

(A)                                the name and address of such nominating shareholder (which must be as they appear in the register);

 

(B)                                the class or series and number of shares which are, directly or indirectly, owned beneficially or of record by any member of its nominating shareholder group or in which any member of such nominating shareholder group has an interest together with details of any member of its nominating shareholder group owning or interested in such shares;

 

(C)                                any option, warrant, convertible security, or other interest in shares or share appreciation right or similar right with an exercise or conversion privilege or a settlement payment or mechanism at a price related to any class or series of

 

21



 

shares or with a value derived in whole or in part from the value of the Company or any class or series of shares or other securities of the Company, whether or not such instrument or right shall be subject to settlement in the underlying class or series of shares or otherwise, in each case directly or indirectly owned beneficially by any member of its nominating shareholder group and any other direct or indirect opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any increase or decrease in the value of any security or instrument of the Company, in each case, regardless of whether (1) such interest in shares conveys any voting rights in such security to such member of the nominating shareholder group, (2) such interest is required to be, or is capable of being, settled through delivery of such security or instrument or (3) such member of the nominating shareholder group may have entered into other transactions to hedge the economic effect of such interest (any such interest in this Article 46.1(b)(ii)(C), a “ Derivative Instrument ”) or confirmation that there is no such Derivative Instrument;

 

(D)                                the name of each person with whom any member of its nominating shareholder group has any agreement, arrangement, understanding (whether written or oral) or relationship (1) for the purposes of acquiring, holding, voting (except pursuant to a revocable proxy given to such person in response to a public proxy or consent solicitation made generally by such person to all holders of shares) or disposing of any shares, (2) to cooperate in obtaining, changing or influencing the control (as defined in these Articles) of the Company (except independent financial, legal and other advisors acting in the ordinary course of their respective businesses), (3) with the effect or intent of increasing or decreasing the voting power of, or that contemplates any person voting together with, any member of any such nominating shareholder group with respect to any shares or any business proposed by such nominating shareholder or (4) otherwise in connection with the proposal of such nominating shareholder or any other business or resolution proposed by any member of any such nominating shareholder group and a description of each such agreement, arrangement, understanding or relationship (any agreement, arrangement, understanding or relationship described in this Article 46.1(b)(ii)(D), a “ Voting Agreement ”) or confirmation that there is no such Voting Agreement;

 

(E)                                 details of all other material interests of any member of its nominating shareholder group in any security of the Company (including any rights to dividends or performance—related fees based on any increase or decrease in the value of such security or Derivative Instruments or if such person directly or indirectly, through any contract, arrangement, understanding (whether written or oral), relationship or otherwise, has the opportunity to profit or share in any profit derived from any decrease in the value of the subject security) (collectively, “ Other Interests ”) or confirmation that there are no such Other Interests;

 

(F)                                  a list of all transactions by the members of its nominating shareholder group involving any securities of the Company or any Derivative Instruments, Voting Agreements or Other Interests within the six—month period prior to the date of the notice or confirmation there have been no such transactions;

 

(G)                                details of any interest in shares or Derivative Instruments held, directly or indirectly, by a general or limited partnership in which any member of its nominating shareholder group is a general partner or, directly or indirectly, beneficially owns an interest in a general partner or confirmation there are no interests in shares or Derivative Instruments;

 

22



 

(H)                               details of any performance—related fees (other than an asset—based fee) that any member of its nominating shareholder group is or may become entitled to, based on any increase or decrease in the value of shares or Derivative Instruments, including any such interests held by shareholders of any member of such nominating shareholder group’s immediate family who share the same household or confirmation that there are no such performance—related fees;

 

(I)                                    a representation that the nominating shareholder is a holder of shares entitled to vote at a general meeting and intends to appear in person or by proxy at the relevant general meeting;

 

(J)                                    a representation as to whether any member of its nominating shareholder group intends, or is part of a group that intends, to (1) deliver a proxy statement and/or form of proxy to holders of at least the percentage of the Company’s shares required to approve or adopt the proposal or (2) otherwise solicit proxies or votes from shareholders in support of such proposal;

 

(K)                                details of any significant equity interests or any Derivative Instruments or Other Interests in any principal competitor of the Company held by any member of its nominating shareholder group or confirmation there are no such significant equity interests, Derivative Interests or Other Interests; and

 

(L)                                 any other information relating to any member of its nominating shareholder group that would be required to be disclosed in a proxy statement or other filings required to be made in connection with solicitations of proxies for, as applicable, the proposal and/or the election of directors in a contested election pursuant to Section 14 of the Exchange Act,

 

the information required by this Article 46.1(b)(ii) shall be updated by such nominating shareholder as at the record date for the relevant general meeting and delivered in writing to the secretary at the office not later than three days after the record date for the relevant general meeting.

 

46.2                         Any request by a proposing shareholder to deal with any business or to propose a resolution at any meeting of the Company which relates to any business other than the appointment or re—appointment of a director (a “ request ”) must, to the fullest extent permitted by the Act, in order for the business to be dealt with or the resolution to be properly moved at a meeting of the Company, (i) be pursuant to the Act and be in compliance with the requirements of the Act and these Articles, and (ii) contain:

 

(a)                                  a comprehensive description of the business desired to be brought before the meeting, the reasons for conducting such business and/or proposing such resolution at the meeting, the text of any proposal (including the complete text of any resolution(s) proposed for consideration) and any material interest in such business of each proposing shareholder and any member of its proposing shareholder group, individually or in the aggregate, including any anticipated benefit to each proposing shareholder and to any member of its proposing shareholder group therefrom;

 

(b)                                  a description of all agreements, arrangements and understandings (whether written or oral) between each proposing shareholder and any member of its proposing shareholder group and any other person or persons (including their names) in connection with the request; and

 

(c)                                   all of the information referred to in Article 46.1(b)(ii), as if each of the references in Article 46.1(b)(ii) to nominating shareholder and nominating shareholder group were to proposing shareholder and proposing shareholder group, respectively, and all of the references to notice were to request.

 

23



 

46.3                         Without prejudice to the rights of any nominating shareholder or proposing shareholder under the Act, a nominating shareholder or proposing shareholder who serves a notice or request, respectively, in relation to an annual general meeting, must deliver such notice or request (as the case may be) to the secretary at the office such that it is received by the secretary at the office not earlier than the close of business on the 120th day and not later than the close of business on the 90th day prior to the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual general meeting; provided, however, that in the event that the date of the annual general meeting is more than 30 days before or more than 70 days after such anniversary date, notice by the shareholder to be timely must be so delivered not earlier than the close of business on the 120th day prior to the date of such annual general meeting and not later than the close of business on the later of the 90th day prior to the date of such annual general meeting or, if the first public announcement of the date of such annual general meeting is less than 100 days prior to the date of such annual general meeting, the 10th day following the day on which public announcement of the date of such meeting is first made by the Company. Notwithstanding anything in the foregoing provisions of this Article 46 to the contrary, in the event that the number of directors to be elected to the board is increased and there is no public announcement by the Company naming all of the nominees for director or specifying the size of the increased board of directors made by the Company at least ninety (90) days prior to the date of the first anniversary of the preceding year’s annual general meeting, a notice required by this Article 46 shall also be considered as validly delivered in accordance with Article 46, but only with respect to nominees for any new positions created by such increase, if it shall be delivered to the secretary at the Company’s registered office not later than 5:00 pm, local time, on the tenth (10th) day after the day on which such public announcement is first made by the Company. In no event shall any adjournment or postponement of an annual general meeting or the announcement thereof commence a new time period for the delivery of a notice or request.

 

46.4                         Notwithstanding any other provisions of this Article 46, any nominating shareholder or proposing shareholder shall also comply with all applicable requirements of the Act and the Exchange Act with respect to the matters set forth in this Article 46; provided, however, that any references in the Articles to the Exchange Act or the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder are not intended to and shall not limit the requirements of these Articles applicable to shareholder notices and requests. Nothing in this Article 46 shall be deemed to affect any rights of (a) shareholders to request inclusion of proposals in, nor the right of the Company to omit proposals from, the Company’s proxy statement pursuant to Rule 14a—8 under the Exchange Act or (b) the holders of any series of preferred shares if and to the extent provided for under law or these Articles.

 

46.5                         Except as otherwise provided by law or these Articles, the chairman of the board shall have the power and duty determine whether a shareholder notice or request complies with the requirements of this Article 46.

 

46.6                         For the purposes of this Article 46:

 

(a)                                  nominating shareholder ” shall mean any shareholder or Shareholder Associated Person who proposes the appointment or re—appointment of any director at any general meeting of the Company;

 

(b)                                  nominating shareholder group ” shall mean all the Shareholder Associated Persons of the nominating shareholder and (unless the nominating shareholder is a Depositary acting solely in such capacity) the nominating shareholder itself;

 

(c)                                   proposing shareholder ” shall mean any shareholder or Shareholder Associated Person who serves a request to deal with any business or to propose a resolution at any meeting of the Company which relates to any business other than the appointment or re—appointment of a director; and

 

(d)                                  proposing shareholder group ” shall mean all the Shareholder Associated Persons of the proposing shareholder and (unless the proposing shareholder is a Depositary acting solely in such capacity) the proposing shareholder itself.

 

24



 

46.7                         For the purposes of the annual general meeting of the Company to be held in 2018, references in this Article 46 to the Company’s “ preceding year’s annual general meeting ” shall be construed as references to the 2017 annual meeting of Parent.

 

46.8                         For the purpose of this Article 46, where a request or notice is delivered by or on behalf of more than one nominating shareholder or proposing shareholder, references to a nominating shareholder or proposing shareholder in relation to such request or notice and other information requirements shall apply to each proposing shareholder or nominating shareholder, respectively, as the context requires.

 

47.                                LIST OF SHAREHOLDERS

 

47.1                         At least 10 days (or, if the maximum period permitted by the Act for determining the shareholders entitled to attend or vote at the meeting is less than 10 days, such date that is the maximum period permitted by the Act) before every general meeting, the secretary shall prepare a complete list of the shareholders entitled to attend and vote at the meeting.

 

47.2                         The list of shareholders shall:

 

(a)                                  be arranged in alphabetical order;

 

(b)                                  show the address of each shareholder; and

 

(c)                                   show the number of shares registered in the name of each shareholder.

 

47.3                         The list of shareholders shall be available during ordinary business hours for a period beginning at least 10 days (or, if the maximum period permitted by the Act for determining the shareholders entitled to attend or vote at the meeting is less than 10 days, such date that is the maximum period permitted by the Act) before the meeting for inspection by any shareholder for any purpose relevant to the meeting. The notice of the meeting may specify the place where the list of shareholders may be inspected. If the notice of the meeting does not specify the place where shareholders may inspect the list of shareholders, the list of shareholders shall be available for inspection at the place where the meeting is to be held.

 

47.4                         The list of shareholders shall be available for inspection by any shareholder who is present at the meeting, at the place, and for the duration, of the meeting.

 

PROCEEDINGS AT GENERAL MEETINGS

 

48.                                QUORUM

 

48.1                         No business may be transacted at a general meeting unless a quorum is present. The absence of a quorum does not prevent the appointment of a chairman in accordance with these Articles, which shall not be treated as part of the business of the meeting.

 

48.2                         Save as otherwise provided by these Articles, a quorum will comprise qualifying persons, who together are entitled to cast at least the majority of the voting rights of the Company. For the purposes of this Article 48, a proxy, attorney or other representative of a shareholder will be considered to be entitled to cast only the voting rights to which his appointment relates and not any other voting rights held by the shareholder he represents.

 

48.3                         The absence of a quorum will not prevent the appointment of a chairman of the meeting. Such appointment shall not be treated as being part of the business of the meeting.

 

25



 

49.                                PROCEDURE IF QUORUM NOT PRESENT

 

49.1                         If a quorum is not present within 30 minutes (or such longer time not exceeding 90 minutes as the chairman determines to wait) after the time fixed for the start of the meeting or if there is no longer a quorum present at any time during the meeting, the meeting stands adjourned to such other day (being not less than 14 nor more than 28 days later) and at such other time and/or place as the chairman (or, if he is not willing or able, the board) determines. If at the adjourned meeting a quorum is not present within 30 minutes (or such longer time not exceeding 90 minutes as the chairman determines to wait) after the time fixed for the start of the meeting, the meeting is dissolved.

 

49.2                         The Company shall provide not less than seven clear days’ notice of any meeting adjourned for the lack of a quorum and the notice shall state the quorum requirement. No business may be dealt with at any meeting adjourned for the lack of a quorum the general nature of which was not stated in the notice convening the original meeting.

 

50.                                CHAIRMAN

 

50.1                         The chairman (if any) of the board or, in his absence, the deputy chairman (if any) or, in his absence, the chief executive officer (if a director) shall preside as chairman at a general meeting. If there is no chairman, deputy chairman or chief executive officer (if a director) present, or if at a meeting none is present and willing and able to act within five minutes after the time fixed for the start of the meeting, the directors present shall select one of their number to be chairman. If only one director is present and willing and able to act, he shall be chairman. In default, the shareholders present in person or by proxy and entitled to vote shall choose by poll one of their number to be chairman.

 

50.2                         Without prejudice to any other power which he may have under the provisions of these Articles or at common law, the chairman may take such action as the chairman thinks fit to promote the orderly conduct of the business of the meeting as specified in the notice of meeting. The chairman’s decision on matters of procedure or arising incidentally from the business of the meeting shall be final, as shall be his determination as to whether any matter is of such a nature.

 

51.                                RIGHT TO ATTEND AND SPEAK

 

51.1                         Each director shall be entitled to attend and speak at a general meeting and at a separate meeting of the holders of a class of shares or debentures whether or not he is a shareholder.

 

51.2                         The chairman may invite any person to attend and speak at any general meeting of the Company where he considers that this will assist in the deliberations of the meeting.

 

52.                                POWER TO ADJOURN

 

52.1                         The chairman or qualifying persons, who together are entitled to cast at least the majority of the voting rights of the Company, shall have the power to adjourn any such meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at such meeting. For the purposes of this Article 52.1, a proxy, attorney or other representative of a shareholder will be considered to be entitled to cast only the voting rights to which his appointment relates and not any other voting rights held by the shareholder he represents.

 

52.2                         Without prejudice to any other power which he may have under the provisions of these Articles or at common law, the chairman may, without a poll, interrupt or adjourn a meeting from time to time and from place to place or for an indefinite period if he determines that it has become necessary to do so in order to:

 

(a)                                  secure the proper and orderly conduct of the meeting;

 

(b)                                  provide all persons entitled to do so a reasonable opportunity of speaking and voting at the meeting; or

 

26



 

(c)                                   ensure that the business of the meeting is properly disposed of.

 

53.                                NOTICE OF ADJOURNED MEETING

 

53.1                         Whenever a meeting is adjourned pursuant to Article 52, regardless of the adjournment period, the board may (but need not) make a fresh determination of persons entitled to receive notice of such adjourned meeting (provided any record date shall not be more than 60 days nor less than 10 days before the date for the holding of the adjourned meeting), in which case at least seven clear days’ notice specifying the place, date and time of the adjourned meeting and the general nature of the business to be transacted shall be given to the shareholders (other than any who, under the provisions of these Articles or the terms of allotment or issue of the shares, are not entitled to receive notice), the directors and the auditors. Except in these circumstances, and those expressed in Article 53.2, it is not necessary to give notice of a meeting adjourned pursuant to Article 52 or of the business to be transacted at the adjourned meeting.

 

53.2                         Whenever a meeting is adjourned for more than 30 days or for an indefinite period pursuant to Article 52, at least seven clear days’ notice specifying the place, date and time of the adjourned  meeting and the general nature of the business to be transacted shall be given to the shareholders (other than any who, under the provisions of these Articles or the terms of allotment or issue of the shares, are not entitled to receive notice), the directors and the auditors. Except in these circumstances, and those expressed in Article 53.1, it is not necessary to give notice of a meeting adjourned pursuant to Article 52 or of the business to be transacted at the adjourned meeting.

 

53.3                         The notice of an adjourned meeting given in accordance with this Article must, if the adjournment is for more than 30 days, and may, in all other cases, also specify a date and time (which shall not be more than 60 days (or, if less, the maximum period permitted by the Act) nor less than 10 days (or, if the maximum period permitted by the Act is less than 10 days, such date that is the maximum period permitted by the Act) before the date for the holding of the meeting) by which a person must be entered on the register in order to have the right to attend or vote at the meeting. Changes to entries on the register after the time so specified in the notice shall be disregarded in determining the rights of any person to so attend or vote. In calculating the period referred to in this Article 53.3, if the maximum period permitted by the Act is less than 10 days, no account shall be taken of any part of a day that is not a working day.

 

54.                                BUSINESS AT ADJOURNED MEETING

 

Subject to Article 53.2 at an adjourned meeting at which a quorum shall be present or represented any business may be transacted which might have been transacted at the meeting as originally notified.

 

55.                                SATELLITE MEETINGS

 

55.1                         The board may resolve to enable persons entitled to attend a general meeting to do so by simultaneous attendance and participation at a satellite meeting place anywhere in the world. The shareholders present in person or by proxy at satellite meeting places shall be counted in the quorum for, and entitled to vote at, the general meeting in question, and that meeting shall be duly constituted and its proceedings valid provided that the chairman of the general meeting is satisfied that adequate facilities are available throughout the general meeting to ensure that shareholders attending at all the meeting places are able to:

 

(a)                                  participate in the business for which the meeting has been convened;

 

(b)                                  hear and see all persons present who speak (whether by the use of microphones, loud—speakers, audio—visual communications equipment or otherwise) in the principal meeting place and any satellite meeting place; and

 

(c)                                   be heard and seen by all other persons present in the same way.

 

27



 

55.2                         The chairman of the general meeting shall be present at, and the meeting shall be deemed to take place at, the principal meeting place.

 

56.                                ACCOMMODATION OF SHAREHOLDERS AT MEETING

 

If it appears to the chairman that the principal meeting place or any satellite meeting place is inadequate to accommodate all qualifying persons entitled and desiring to attend, the meeting shall be duly constituted and its proceedings valid if the chairman is satisfied that adequate facilities are available to ensure that a qualifying person who is unable to be accommodated is able to:

 

(a)                                  participate in the business for which the meeting has been convened;

 

(b)                                  hear and see all persons present who speak (whether by the use of microphones, loud—speakers, audio—visual communications equipment or otherwise) whether in the principal meeting place, any satellite meeting place or elsewhere; and

 

(c)                                   be heard and seen by all other persons present in the same way.

 

57.                                SECURITY

 

The chairman or the board may make any arrangement and impose any restriction he or it considers appropriate to ensure the security of a meeting including adopting rules for the meeting, the searching of a person attending the meeting and the restriction of the items of personal property that may be taken into the meeting place. The chairman or the board may authorise one or more persons, who may include a director, an officer or the secretary or the chairman of the meeting, to:

 

(a)                                  refuse entry to a meeting to a person who refuses to comply with these arrangements or restrictions; and

 

(b)                                  eject from a meeting any person who causes the proceedings to become disorderly.

 

VOTING

 

58.                                METHOD OF VOTING

 

58.1                         Any resolution put to the vote at a meeting shall be decided on a poll and, for the avoidance of doubt, no resolution shall be decided on a show of hands. For so long as any shares are held by a Depositary, this Article 58.1 may only be amended or repealed with the unanimous approval of all of the shareholders.

 

58.2                         Cumulative voting of shares, regardless of the class of shares, is prohibited.

 

59.                                PROCEDURE

 

59.1                         Each poll shall be conducted in such a manner as the chairman directs. In advance of any meeting, the chairman shall appoint scrutineers or inspectors, who need not be shareholders, to act at the meeting. The chairman may appoint one or more persons as alternate scrutineers or inspectors to replace any scrutineer or inspector who fails to act. If no scrutineer or inspector or alternate scrutineer or alternate inspector is willing or able to act at a meeting, the chairman shall appoint one or more other persons to act as scrutineers or inspectors at the meeting. The result of the poll shall be deemed to be the resolution of the meeting at which the poll was conducted.

 

59.2                         Each scrutineer or inspector appointed in accordance with this Article shall, prior to acting, be required to provide an undertaking to the Company, in a form determined by the board, that he will execute the duties of a scrutineer or inspector with strict impartiality and according to the best of his ability.

 

28



 

59.3                         Any poll conducted on the election of a chairman or on any question of adjournment shall be taken at the meeting and without adjournment. A poll conducted on another question shall be taken at such time and place as the chairman determines, either at once or after an interval or adjournment.

 

59.4                         The date and time of the opening and the closing of a poll for each matter upon which the qualifying persons will vote at a meeting shall be announced at the meeting. No ballot, proxies or votes, nor any revocations thereof or changes thereto, shall be accepted by the scrutineers or inspectors after the closing of the poll unless a court with relevant jurisdiction upon application by a shareholder shall determine otherwise.

 

59.5                         The conduct of a poll (other than on the election of a chairman or on a question of adjournment) does not prevent the meeting continuing for the transaction of business other than the question on which a poll is to be conducted.

 

59.6                         On a poll a shareholder entitled to more than one vote need not, if he votes, use all his votes or cast all the votes he uses in the same way.

 

60.                                VOTES OF SHAREHOLDERS

 

60.1                         Subject to any rights or restrictions as to voting attached to any class of shares by or in accordance with these Articles and subject to Article 65 and the Act, at a meeting on a vote on a resolution every shareholder (whether present in person or by proxy) has one vote for every share of which he is the holder.

 

60.2                         In the case of joint holders of a share, the vote of the most senior joint holder who tenders a vote, whether in person or by proxy, shall be accepted to the exclusion of the vote or votes of the other joint holder or holders, and seniority shall be determined by the order in which the names of the holders stand in the register.

 

60.3                         A shareholder in respect of whom an order has been made by any court or official having jurisdiction (whether in the United Kingdom, the United States or elsewhere) that he is or may be suffering from a mental disorder or is otherwise incapable of running his affairs may vote by his guardian, receiver, curator bonis or other person authorised for that purpose and appointed by the court. A guardian, receiver, curator bonis or other authorised and appointed person may vote by proxy if evidence (to the satisfaction of the board) of the authority of the person claiming to exercise the right to vote is received at the office (or at another place specified in accordance with these Articles for the delivery or receipt of forms of appointment of a proxy) or in any other manner specified in these Articles for the appointment of a proxy within the time limits prescribed by these Articles for the appointment of a proxy for use at the meeting, adjourned meeting or poll at which the right to vote is to be exercised.

 

61.                                RESTRICTION ON VOTING RIGHTS FOR UNPAID CALLS, ETC.

 

Unless the board otherwise determines, no shareholder is entitled in respect of a share held by him to be present or to vote, either in person or by proxy, at a general meeting or at a separate meeting of the holders of a class of shares or on a poll, or to exercise other rights conferred on shareholders in relation to the meeting or poll, if a call or other amount due and payable in respect of the share is unpaid. This restriction ceases on payment of the amount outstanding and all costs, charges and expenses incurred by the Company by reason of the non—payment.

 

62.                                VOTING BY PROXY

 

62.1                         A shareholder is entitled to appoint another person as his proxy to exercise all or any of his rights to attend and to speak and vote at a meeting. Such a proxy can himself appoint another person to be his proxy in relation to the number of shares held by such person, and such proxy can himself appoint another person to be his proxy in relation to the number of shares held by him and so on ad infinitum, and the provisions of Articles 62 to 64 shall apply to all such appointments as if the appointor was the shareholder and the

 

29



 

appointment was made by him. The appointment of a proxy to vote on a matter at a meeting authorises the proxy to demand or join in demanding a poll on that matter.

 

62.2                         A proxy need not be a shareholder.

 

62.3                         An instrument appointing a proxy shall be in any usual form or in any form or manner of communication which the board may approve (and in the case of a proxy relating to shares held by a Depositary, this may include a voter instruction form to be provided to the Company by third parties on behalf of the Depositary). Subject thereto, the appointment of a proxy may be in hard copy form or in electronic form and shall be executed in such manner as may be approved by or on behalf of the Company from time to time. Subject to the foregoing, the appointment of a proxy shall be executed under the hand of the appointor or his duly constituted attorney or, if the appointor is a corporation, under its seal or under the hand of its duly authorised officer or attorney or other person authorised to sign.

 

62.4                         Subject to the Act, the Company may provide an electronic address for the receipt of any document or information relating to proxies for a meeting (including any instrument of proxy or invitation to appoint a proxy, any document necessary to show the validity of, or otherwise relating to, an appointment of proxy and notice of the termination of the authority of a proxy). The Company shall be deemed to have agreed that any such document or information may be sent by electronic means to that address (subject to any conditions or limitations specified by the Company when providing such address).

 

62.5                         A shareholder may appoint more than one proxy in relation to a meeting provided that each proxy is appointed to exercise the rights attached to a different share or shares held by him. References in these Articles to an appointment of proxy include references to an appointment of multiple proxies.

 

62.6                         Where two or more valid but conflicting appointments of proxy are delivered or received for the same share or shares for use at the same meeting, the one which is last validly delivered or received (regardless of its date or the date of its execution) shall be treated as replacing and revoking the other or others as regards that share or those shares. If the Company is unable to determine which appointment was last validly delivered or received, none of them shall be treated as valid in respect of that share or those shares.

 

62.7                         Delivery or receipt of an appointment of proxy does not prevent a shareholder from attending and voting in person at the meeting or an adjournment of the meeting in lieu of such proxy.

 

62.8                         The appointment of a proxy shall (unless the contrary is stated in it) be valid for an adjournment of the meeting as well as for the meeting or meetings to which it relates. A proxy given in the form of a power of attorney or similar authorisation granting power to a person to vote on behalf of a shareholder at forthcoming meetings in general shall not be treated as valid for a period of more than three years, unless the contrary is stated in it.

 

62.9                         Subject to the provisions of the Act and the requirements of any relevant listing rules (if applicable), the board may at the expense of the Company send or make available appointments of proxy or invitations to appoint a proxy to the shareholders by post or by electronic means or otherwise (with or without provision for their return prepaid) for use at any meeting or at any separate meeting of the holders of any class of shares, either in blank or nominating in the alternative any one or more of the directors or any other person. If for the purpose of any meeting appointments of proxy or invitations to appoint as proxy a person or one of a number of persons specified in the invitation are issued at the Company’s expense, they shall be issued to all (and not to some only) of the shareholders entitled to be sent a notice of the meeting and to vote at it. The accidental omission or the failure, due to circumstances beyond the Company’s control, to send or make available such an appointment of proxy or provide such an invitation to, or the non—receipt thereof by, any shareholder entitled to attend and vote at a meeting shall not invalidate the proceedings at that meeting.

 

30


 

63.                                APPOINTMENT OF PROXY

 

63.1                         An appointment of proxy (and, where such proxy is himself appointed by a proxy, such appointor(s) proxies), and (if required by the board) a power of attorney or other authority under which it is, or they are, as applicable, executed or a copy of it notarially certified or certified in some other way approved by the board, shall:

 

(a)                                  in the case of an appointment of proxy in hard copy form, be received at the office, or another place specified in the notice convening the meeting or in any appointment of proxy or any invitation to appoint a proxy sent out or made available by the Company in relation to the meeting, by the time specified by the board (as the board may determine, in compliance with the provisions of the Act) in any such notice, appointment of proxy or invitation to appoint a proxy;

 

(b)                                  in the case of an appointment of proxy by electronic means be received at the electronic address specified in the notice convening the meeting or in any appointment of proxy or any invitation to appoint a proxy sent out or made available by the Company in relation to the meeting, by the time specified by the board (as the board may determine, in compliance with the provisions of the Act) in any such notice, appointment of proxy or invitation by a proxy;

 

(c)                                   in the case of a poll taken more than 48 hours after the meeting at which the relevant vote was to be taken, be received as aforesaid after such meeting and not less than 24 hours (or such shorter time as the board may determine) before the time appointed for the taking of the poll; or

 

(d)                                  in the case of a poll not taken immediately but taken not more than 48 hours after the meeting at which the relevant vote was to be taken, be delivered at such meeting to the chairman or to the secretary or to any director.

 

An appointment of proxy not received or delivered in accordance with this Article is invalid. The board may at its discretion determine that, in calculating the periods mentioned in this Article 63.1, no account shall be taken of any part of any day that is not a business day.

 

63.2                         Without limiting the foregoing, in relation to any shares which are held in uncertificated form, the board may from time to time permit appointments of proxy to be made by electronic means in the form of an uncertificated proxy instruction and may in a similar manner permit supplements to, or amendments or revocations of, any such uncertificated proxy instruction to be made by like means. The board may in addition prescribe the method of determining the time at which any such uncertificated proxy instruction (and/or other instruction or notification) is to be treated as received by the Company or a participant acting on its behalf. The board may treat any such uncertificated proxy instruction which purports to be or is expressed to be sent on behalf of a holder of a share as sufficient evidence of the authority of the person sending that instruction to send it on behalf of that holder.

 

64.                                WHEN VOTES BY PROXY ARE VALID ALTHOUGH AUTHORITY TERMINATED

 

A vote cast by a proxy is valid despite the previous termination of the authority of a person to act as a proxy unless notice of such termination shall have been received by the Company at the office, or at such other place or address at which an appointment of proxy may be duly received or delivered, not later than the time at which an appointment of proxy should have been received or delivered in order for it to be valid for use at the meeting or postponed or adjourned meeting at which the vote is cast or (in the case of a poll taken otherwise than at or on the same day as the meeting or adjourned meeting) for use in relation to the poll at which the vote is cast.

 

31



 

ADDITIONAL VOTING PROVISIONS

 

65.                                CORPORATE REPRESENTATIVES

 

65.1                         A corporation that is a shareholder may, by resolution of its directors or other governing body, authorise a person or persons to act as its representative or representatives at any meeting of the Company, or at any separate meeting of the holders of any class of shares (a “ representative ”).

 

65.2                         Subject to Article 65.3, a representative is entitled to exercise (on behalf of the corporation) the same powers as the corporation could exercise if it were an individual shareholder.

 

65.3                         Where a corporation authorises more than one representative and more than one representative purports to exercise a power under Article 65.2 in respect of the same shares:

 

(a)                                  if they purport to exercise the power in the same way as each other, the power is treated as exercised in that way; or

 

(b)                                  if they do not purport to exercise the power in the same way as each other, the power is treated as not exercised.

 

65.4                         A director, the secretary or other person authorised for the purpose by the secretary may require a representative to produce a certified copy of the resolution of authorisation before permitting him to exercise his powers.

 

66.                                OBJECTIONS TO AND ERROR IN VOTING

 

No objection may be made to the qualification of any person voting at a general meeting or to the counting of, or failure to count, any vote, except at the meeting, postponed or adjourned meeting or poll at which the vote objected to is tendered or at which the error occurs. An objection properly made shall be referred to the chairman whose decision on such matter shall be final and conclusive.

 

67.                                AMENDMENTS TO RESOLUTIONS

 

No amendment to a resolution duly proposed as a special resolution (other than an amendment to correct a patent error) may be considered or voted on. No amendment to a resolution duly proposed as an ordinary resolution (other than an amendment to correct a patent error) may be considered or voted on unless either:

 

(a)                                  at least 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting or postponed or adjourned meeting at which the ordinary resolution is to be considered, notice of the terms of the amendment and intention to move it has been lodged at the office; or

 

(b)                                  the chairman in his absolute discretion determines that the amendment may be considered or voted on.

 

If an amendment proposed to a resolution under consideration is ruled out of order by the chairman the proceedings on the substantive resolution are not invalidated by an error in his ruling.

 

68.                                FAILURE TO DISCLOSE INTERESTS IN SHARES

 

68.1                         Where notice is served by the Company under section 793 of the Act (a “ section 793 notice ”) on a shareholder, or another person appearing to be interested in shares held by that shareholder, and the shareholder or other person has failed in relation to any shares (the “ default shares ,” which expression includes any shares allotted or issued after the date of the section 793 notice in respect of those shares and to any other shares registered in the name of such shareholder or in which such other person is interested, as the case may be, at any time whilst the default subsists) to provide the Company with the information

 

32



 

required (and for the avoidance of doubt, in the case of a Depositary acting solely in the Depositary’s capacity as such, only the information required under Article 68.4) within the prescribed period from the date of service of the section 793 notice, the following sanctions apply, unless the board otherwise determines:

 

(a)                                  the shareholder shall not be entitled in respect of the default shares to be present or to vote (either in person or by proxy) at a general meeting or at a separate meeting of the holders of a class of shares or on a poll, or to exercise other rights conferred by membership in relation to the meeting or poll;

 

(b)                                  where the default shares represent at least 0.25% in nominal value of the issued shares of their class:

 

(i)                                      a dividend (or any part of a dividend) or any monies which would otherwise be payable in respect of the default shares (except on the winding up of a company) shall be withheld by the Company, which has no obligation to pay interest on it, and the shareholder shall not be entitled to elect, pursuant to Article 125, to receive shares instead of a dividend; and

 

(ii)                                   no transfer of any default shares (in the case of any uncertificated shares, subject to the Uncertificated Securities Regulations) shall be registered unless the transfer is an excepted transfer or:

 

(A)                                the shareholder is not himself in default in supplying the information required; and

 

(B)                                the shareholder proves to the satisfaction of the board that no person in default in supplying the information required is interested in any of the shares the subject of the transfer; and

 

(c)                                   the shareholder (except for a Depositary acting solely in the Depositary’s capacity as such) that is the subject of a section 793 notice is in breach of these Articles.

 

68.2                         The board may, to enable the Company to deal with default shares in accordance with the provisions of this Article, give notice in writing to any shareholder requiring the shareholder holding default shares held in uncertificated form:

 

(a)                                  to change his holding of such shares from default shares held in uncertificated form into certificated form in the name of the shareholder by the time stated in the notice; or

 

(b)                                  to appoint any person to take any steps, by instruction by means of the relevant system or otherwise, in the name of any holder of default shares as may be required to change such default shares from uncertificated form into certificated form. If the shareholder does not comply with the notice, the board may require the Operator to convert default shares held in uncertificated form into certificated form in the name and on behalf of the shareholder in accordance with the Uncertificated Securities Regulations.

 

68.3                         Where any person appearing to be interested in any shares has been served with a section 793 notice and such shares are held by a Depositary, the provisions of this Article 68 shall be deemed to apply only to those shares held by the Depositary in which such person appears to be interested and not (so far as that person’s apparent interest is concerned) to any other shares held by the Depositary in which such person does not have an interest and references to default shares shall be construed accordingly.

 

68.4                         Where the shareholder on whom a section 793 notice has been served is a Depositary, the obligations of the Depositary (acting solely in the Depositary’s capacity as such) shall be limited to disclosing to the

 

33



 

Company such information relating to any person appearing to be interested in the shares held by it as has been recorded by the Depositary.

 

68.5                         The sanctions under Article 68.1 cease to apply seven days after the earlier of:

 

(a)                                  receipt by the Company of notice of an excepted transfer, but only in relation to the shares thereby transferred; and

 

(b)                                  receipt by the Company, in a form satisfactory to the board, of all the information required by the section 793 notice.

 

68.6                         Where, on the basis of information obtained from a shareholder in respect of a share held by him, the Company issues a section 793 notice to another person, it shall at the same time send a copy of the section 793 notice to the shareholder, but the accidental omission to do so, or the non—receipt by the shareholder of the copy, does not invalidate or otherwise affect the application of Articles 68.1 and 68.2.

 

68.7                         For the purposes of this Article 68:

 

(a)                                  a person, other than the holder of a share, shall be treated as appearing to be interested in shares if the shareholder has informed the Company that the person is or may be interested, or if the Company (after taking account of information obtained from the shareholder or, pursuant to a section 793 notice, from anyone else or otherwise) knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the person is or may be interested in the shares;

 

(b)                                  interested ” shall be construed as it is for the purpose of section 793 of the Act and references in this Article to persons interested in shares and to “ interests in shares ” shall be construed in accordance with section 820 of the Act;

 

(c)                                   reference to a person having failed to provide the Company the information required by a section 793 notice, or being in default in supplying such information, includes (i) reference to his having failed or refused to provide all or any part of it, and (ii) reference to his having given information which he knows to be false in a material particular or having recklessly given information which is false in a material particular;

 

(d)                                  the “ prescribed period ” means 14 days;

 

(e)                                   transfer ” means a transfer of a share or (where applicable) a renunciation of a renounceable letter of allotment or other renounceable document of title relating to a share;

 

(f)                                    an “ excepted transfer ” means, in relation to shares held by a shareholder:

 

(i)                                      a transfer pursuant to acceptance of a takeover offer for the Company (within the meaning of Section 974 of the Act); or

 

(ii)                                   a transfer that results from a sale made through the NYSE or any other recognised investment exchange (as defined in the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000) or any other stock exchange outside the United Kingdom on which shares in the capital of the Company are normally traded; or

 

(iii)                                a transfer which is shown to the satisfaction of the board to be made as a result of a sale of the whole of any interest in the shares to a person who is unconnected with the shareholder and with any other person appearing to be interested in the shares.

 

68.8                         None of the provisions contained in this Article shall in any way limit or restrict the rights of the Company under sections 793 and 794 of the Act or any order made by the court under section 794 or elsewhere under

 

34



 

Part 22 of the Act nor shall any sanction imposed by the board pursuant to this Article cease to have effect, otherwise than as provided in this Article, unless it is so ordered by the court.

 

APPOINTMENT AND RETIREMENT OF DIRECTORS

 

69.                                NUMBER OF DIRECTORS

 

69.1                         The number of directors must not be less than two and must not be more than nine. The number of directors may be fixed within the foregoing limits from time to time by resolution of the board.

 

69.2                         If the number of directors is reduced below the minimum number fixed in accordance with these Articles, the directors for the time being may act for the purpose of filling vacancies in their number or of calling a general meeting of the Company, but for no other purpose. If there are no directors willing to act, then any two shareholders may summon a general meeting for the purpose of appointing directors.

 

70.                                POWER OF THE COMPANY TO APPOINT DIRECTORS

 

Without prejudice to the power of the board to appoint a person to be a director pursuant to these Articles, the Company may, by ordinary resolution appoint a person who has been nominated in accordance with Article 46 and who is willing to act to be a director, either to fill a vacancy or as an addition to the board, but the total number of directors may not exceed any number fixed in accordance with these Articles.

 

71.                                POWER OF THE BOARD TO APPOINT DIRECTORS

 

Notwithstanding the specific rights of shareholders to appoint and nominate directors pursuant to these Articles, the board may appoint a person who is willing to act as a director, either to fill a vacancy or as an addition to the board, but the total number of directors may not exceed any number fixed in accordance with these Articles.

 

72.                                [OMITTED]

 

73.                                NO SHARE QUALIFICATION

 

A director is not required to hold any shares in the capital of the Company.

 

74.                                VOTING ON RESOLUTION FOR APPOINTMENT

 

At a general meeting, a motion for the appointment of two or more persons as directors by a single resolution shall not be made unless an ordinary resolution that it should be so made has first been agreed to by the meeting without any vote being given against it, and for the purposes of this Article a motion for approving a person’s appointment or for nominating a person for appointment shall be treated as a motion for his appointment. A resolution moved in contravention of this Article is void (whether or not its being so moved was objected to at the time).

 

75.                                ANNUAL APPOINTMENT OF DIRECTORS

 

75.1                         The directors shall be appointed at each annual general meeting of the Company by ordinary resolution.

 

75.2                         Other than pursuant to Article 76, each director elected shall hold office until his successor is elected or until his earlier resignation or removal pursuant to any of Article 76.

 

75.3                         No person shall be appointed a director at any general meeting unless:

 

(a)                                  he is recommended by the board; or

 

35



 

(b)                                  notice in respect of that person is given by a shareholder qualified to vote at the meeting and received by the Company in accordance with Article 46 (and, if applicable, section 338 of the Act) of the intention to propose that person for appointment stating the particulars which would, if he were so appointed, be required to be included in the Company’s register of directors, together with notice by that person of his willingness to be appointed.

 

75.4                         If at a meeting of the Company it is proposed to vote upon a number of resolutions for the appointment of a person as a director (each a “ Director Resolution ”) that exceeds the total number of directors that may be appointed to the board at that meeting (the “ Board Number ”), the persons that shall be appointed shall first be the person who receives the greatest number of “for” votes (whether or not a majority of those votes cast in respect of that Director Resolution), and then shall second be the person who receives the second greatest number of “for” votes (whether or not a majority of those votes cast in respect of that Director Resolution), and so on, until the number of directors so appointed equals the Board Number.

 

76.                                RESIGNATION, DISQUALIFICATION AND REMOVAL OF DIRECTOR

 

76.1                         A person ceases to be a director as soon as:

 

(a)                                  he resigns by notice delivered to the secretary at the office or tendered at a board meeting or if he shall offer in writing to resign, when the other directors resolve to accept such offer;

 

(b)                                  his term expires without re-appointment;

 

(c)                                   he ceases to be a director by virtue of a provision of the Act, is removed from office pursuant to these Articles or is prohibited by law or, if applicable, any rules of the NYSE, from being a director;

 

(d)                                  he becomes bankrupt or compounds with his creditors generally or he applies to the court for an interim order under section 253 of the Insolvency Act 1986 in connection with a voluntary arrangement under that statute; or

 

(e)                                   a registered medical practitioner who is treating him gives a written opinion to the Company stating that he has become physically or mentally incapable of acting as a director and may remain so for more than three months, and the board resolves that his office be vacated.

 

76.2                         The Company may, without prejudice to the provisions of the Act, by ordinary resolution remove any director from office (notwithstanding any provision of these Articles or of any agreement between the Company and such director, but without prejudice to any claim he may have for damages for breach of any such agreement).

 

76.3                         A resolution of the board declaring a director to have vacated office under the terms of this Article is conclusive as to the fact and grounds of vacation stated in the resolution.

 

76.4                         If the office of a director is vacated for any reason, he shall cease to be a member of any committee.

 

36



 

77.                                [OMITTED]

 

78.                                [OMITTED]

 

79.                                [OMITTED]

 

80.                                [OMITTED]

 

REMUNERATION, EXPENSES AND PENSIONS

 

81.                                REMUNERATION AND EXPENSES OF DIRECTORS

 

81.1                         Subject to the provisions of these Articles, the board shall have the authority to determine the compensation of directors who are not officers or employees of the Company or a subsidiary of the Company and for any family of his. Such directors may be paid their expenses, if any, of attendance at each meeting of the board or committee and may be paid a fixed sum or a variable sum for attendance at or participation in each meeting of the board or committee, which may be in addition to stated director compensation in cash or equity (such as shares, options or units) or other benefits, or any combination thereof.

 

81.2                         No such compensation under Article 81.1 shall preclude any director from serving the Company in any other capacity and receiving compensation therefor. Members of any special or standing committees may be allowed like compensation for attending or participating in committee meetings. A non-executive chairman of the board and the chairman of a special or standing committee may be paid a supplemental sum for serving as chairman of each meeting of the board or the special or standing committee.

 

81.3                         Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may also fund a director’s expenditure on defending proceedings (including investigations by or action proposed to be taken by any regulatory authority) or in connection with any application under the Act and may do anything to enable a director to avoid incurring such expenditure.

 

82.                                ADDITIONAL REMUNERATION

 

82.1                         A director who, at the request of the board, travels or resides abroad, undertakes a special journey or performs a special service on behalf of the Company may be paid such reasonable additional remuneration (whether by way of salary, percentage of profits or otherwise) and expenses as the board may determine provided that payment of such remuneration or expenses would not result in non-compliance with any rules of the NYSE.

 

82.2                         Subject to the provisions of the Act, the board may enter into an agreement or arrangement with any director for the provision of any services outside the scope of the ordinary duties of a director. Any such agreement or arrangement may be made on such terms and conditions as the board thinks fit and, without prejudice to any other provision of these Articles, it may remunerate any such director for such services as it thinks fit and provide for the payment of expenses properly incurred by the director in each case provided that the payment of such remuneration or expenses would not result in non-compliance with any rules of the NYSE.

 

83.                                [OMITTED]

 

84.                                DIRECTORS’ PENSIONS AND OTHER BENEFITS

 

84.1                         The board may exercise all the powers of the Company to provide pensions or other retirement or superannuation benefits and to provide death or disability benefits or other allowances or gratuities (by insurance or otherwise) for a person who is or has at any time been a director of:

 

(a)                                  the Company;

 

37



 

(b)                                  a company that is or was a subsidiary undertaking of the Company;

 

(c)                                   a company that is or was allied to or associated with the Company or a subsidiary undertaking of the Company; or

 

(d)                                  a predecessor in business of the Company or of a subsidiary undertaking of the Company;

 

or, in each case, for any member of his family, including a spouse or former spouse, a civil partner or a former civil partner, or a person who is or was dependent on him. For this purpose the board may establish, maintain, subscribe and contribute to any scheme, trust or fund and pay premiums. The board may arrange for this to be done by the Company alone or in conjunction with another person.

 

84.2                         A director or former director is entitled to receive and retain for his own benefit a pension or other benefit provided under Articles 81-84 and is not obliged to account for it to the Company.

 

85.                                [OMITTED]

 

86.                                INSURANCE

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act, the board may exercise all the powers of the Company to purchase and maintain insurance for the benefit of a person who is or was a director, or officer of the Company, or a director or officer of any associated company, or is or was serving or has agreed to serve at the request of the Company as a director or officer of another organisation or trustee of any employee benefit plan, against any liability attaching to him in connection with any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust or any other liability which may lawfully be insured against by the Company, any associated company or such other organisation.

 

POWERS AND DUTIES OF THE BOARD

 

87.                                POWERS OF THE BOARD

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act and these Articles and to directions given by special resolution of the Company, the business and affairs of the Company shall be managed by the board at properly convening meetings pursuant to these Articles, and the board may exercise all the powers of the Company whether relating to the management of the business or not. No alteration of these Articles and no direction given by the Company shall invalidate a prior act of the board that would have been valid if the alteration had not been made or the direction had not been given. The provisions of these Articles giving specific powers to the board do not limit the general powers given by this Article.

 

88.                                POWERS OF DIRECTORS BEING LESS THAN MINIMUM REQUIRED NUMBER

 

If the number of directors is less than the minimum prescribed by these Articles, the remaining director or directors may act only for the purposes of appointing an additional director or directors to make up that minimum or convening a general meeting of the Company for the purpose of making such appointment. If no director or directors is or are able or willing to act, notwithstanding any other provisions of these Articles, the chief executive officer, the secretary or a shareholder may convene a general meeting for the purpose of appointing directors. An additional director appointed in this way holds office (subject to these Articles) only until the dissolution of the next annual general meeting after his appointment unless he is reappointed during the meeting.

 

38



 

89.                                [OMITTED]

 

90.                                OFFICERS

 

90.1                         The officers of the Company shall be chosen in such a manner, shall hold their offices for such terms and shall carry out such duties as are prescribed herein or determined solely by the board, subject to the right of the board to remove any officer or officers at any time. The board may determine that all of the officers of the Company shall be appointed or reappointed by the board on an annual basis.

 

90.2                         The officers of the Company shall include a chief executive officer, one or more presidents, one or more vice presidents (any one or more of whom may be designated by the board as executive vice president or senior vice president), a treasurer, a secretary and if the board so elects, a chairman of the board and such other officers as the board may from time to time elect or appoint. Any number of offices may be held by the same person unless the Act or these Articles otherwise provide.

 

90.3                         Such other officers and assistant officers and agents as may be deemed necessary may be elected or appointed by the board.

 

90.4                         Any officer of the Company may be removed at any time, with or without cause, by the board.

 

90.5                         The compensation and benefits which may include equity awards of all officers and agents of the Company shall be fixed by the board or a duly constituted committee thereof.

 

90.6                         Each officer of the Company shall hold office until his successor is appointed or until his earlier death, resignation, retirement or removal. Any vacancy occurring in any office of the Company may be filled by the board.

 

91.                                CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND PRESIDENTS

 

91.1                         Unless the board shall otherwise delegate such duties and subject in all respects to the powers and duties of the board, the chief executive officer shall have general and active management of the business of the Company, and shall see that all orders and resolutions of the board are carried into effect. The chief executive officer shall execute bonds, mortgages and other contracts requiring a seal, under the seal of the Company, except where required or permitted by law to be otherwise signed and executed, including designation of authority by power of attorney, or where the signing and execution thereof shall be expressly delegated by the board to some other officer or agent of the Company. The chief executive officer or such other officer as shall be authorised by him shall have such powers and duties as usually pertain to the office of chief executive officer, except as the same may be modified by the board. Further, unless the board otherwise determines, he shall, in the absence of the chairman of the board or if there be no chairman of the board, preside at all general meetings and meetings of the board.

 

91.2                         If so appointed, the chairman of the board shall preside at all general meetings and meetings of the board; and he shall have such other powers and duties as may be delegated by the board.

 

91.3                         In the absence of the chief executive officer, or in the event of his inability or refusal to act, a president designated by the board shall perform the duties of the chief executive officer, and when so acting shall have all the powers of and be subject to all the restrictions upon the chief executive officer. In the absence of a designation by the board of a president to perform the duties of the chief executive officer, or in the event of his absence or inability or refusal to act, the president who is present and who is senior in terms of time as a president of the Company shall so act. The presidents shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as may be delegated by the board from time to time.

 

39



 

92.                                VICE PRESIDENTS

 

The vice presidents shall perform such duties as expressly assigned to them by the chief executive officer, any president, or by a more senior vice president, as well as such other duties as may be delegated by the board from time to time. The ranking of vice presidents shall be in the following sequence (higher to lower): executive vice president, senior vice president and vice president.

 

93.                                DELEGATION TO COMMITTEES

 

93.1                         The board may by a majority of the whole board delegate any of its powers, authorities and discretions (with power to sub—delegate) to a committee consisting of one or more persons (whether a member or members of the board or not) as it thinks fit. A committee may exercise its power to sub—delegate by sub—delegating to any person or persons (whether or not a member or members of the board or of the committee). The board may retain or exclude its right to exercise the delegated powers, authorities or discretions collaterally with the committee. The board may at any time revoke the delegation or alter any terms and conditions or discharge the committee in whole or in part. Where a provision of these Articles refers to the exercise of a power, authority or discretion by the board (including the power to pay fees, remuneration, additional remuneration, expenses and pensions and other benefits) and that power, authority or discretion has been delegated by the board to a committee, the provision shall be construed as permitting the exercise of the power, authority or discretion by the committee.

 

93.2                         Committee membership designations shall be subject to provisions regarding independence or other qualifications for committee service which may be imposed by applicable laws, rules, regulations or listing rules.

 

93.3                         The board may designate one or more directors as alternate members of any committee, who may replace any absent or disqualified member at any meeting of the committee.

 

93.4                         Standing committee functions, one or more of which may be performed by a single committee, may include audit, compensation, finance and nominating and governance and/or such other committees as may be designated by the board from time to time. Any committee, to the extent provided in the resolution of the board or the board approved committee charter, shall have and may exercise all the powers and authority of the board in the management of the business and affairs of the Company, including:

 

(a)                                  authorising the seal of the Company to be affixed to all papers that may require it;

 

(b)                                  in relation to the allotment or issue of shares approved by the board, fix any of the preferences or rights of such shares relating to voting, dividends, redemption, dissolution, any distribution of assets of the Company or the conversion into, or the exchange of such shares for, shares of any other class or classes or any other series of the same or any other class or classes of shares; but no such committee shall have the power or authority in reference to:

 

(i)                                      adopting an agreement of merger, consolidation, scheme of arrangement or similar arrangement;

 

(ii)                                   recommending to the shareholders the sale, lease or exchange of all or substantially all of the Company’s property and assets; and

 

(iii)                                recommending to the shareholders a dissolution of the Company or a revocation of a dissolution,

 

provided further that, unless the resolution or these Articles expressly so provide, no such committee shall have the power or authority to declare a dividend or to authorise the allotment or issue of shares.

 

40


 

Such committee or committees shall have such name or names as may be determined from time to time by resolution of the board.

 

94.                                [OMITTED]

 

95.                                AGENTS

 

The board may by power of attorney or otherwise appoint a person to be the agent of the Company and may delegate to that person any of its powers, authorities and discretions for such purposes, for such time and on such terms and conditions (including as to remuneration) as it thinks fit. In particular the board may grant the power to sub—delegate and may retain or exclude the right of the board to exercise the delegated powers, authorities or discretions collaterally with the agent. The board may at any time revoke or alter the terms and conditions of the appointment or delegation with or without cause.

 

96.                                EXERCISE OF VOTING POWERS

 

The board may exercise or cause to be exercised the voting powers conferred by shares in the capital of another company held or owned by the Company, or a power of appointment to be exercised by the Company, in any manner it thinks fit (including the exercise of the voting power or power of appointment in favour of the appointment of a director as an officer or employee of that company or in favour of the payment of remuneration to the officers or employees of that company).

 

97.                                PROVISION FOR EMPLOYEES

 

The board may exercise the powers conferred on the Company by the Act to make provision for the benefit of a person employed or formerly employed by the Company or any of its subsidiaries (other than a director or former director or alternate or shadow director) in connection with the cessation or the transfer to a person of the whole or part of the undertaking of the Company or the subsidiary.

 

98.                                REGISTERS

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act, the board may exercise the powers conferred on the Company with regard to the keeping of an overseas branch, local or other register and may make and vary regulations as it thinks fit concerning the keeping of a register.

 

99.                                REGISTER OF CHARGES

 

The Company shall keep a register of charges in accordance with the provisions of the Act and the fee to be paid by a person other than a creditor or shareholder for each inspection of the register of charges is the maximum sum prescribed by the provisions of the Act or, failing which, determined by the board.

 

100.                         DIRECTORS’ CONFLICTS OF INTEREST OTHER THAN IN RELATION TO TRANSACTIONS OR ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE COMPANY

 

100.1                  Subject to the provisions of the Act, if a situation (a “ relevant situation ”) arises in which a director has, or can have, a direct or indirect interest that conflicts, or possibly may conflict, with the interests of the Company (including in relation to the exploitation of any property, information or opportunity, whether or not the Company could take advantage of any such property, information or opportunity, but excluding any situation which cannot reasonably be regarded as likely to give rise to a conflict of interest) the following provisions shall apply if the conflict of interest does not arise in relation to a transaction or arrangement with the Company:

 

(a)                                  if the relevant situation arises from the appointment or proposed appointment of a person as a director, the board may resolve to authorise the appointment of the director and the relevant situation; or

 

41



 

(b)                                  if the relevant situation arises in circumstances other than those in Article 100.1(a), the board may resolve to authorise the relevant situation and the continuing performance by the director of his duties, in each case on such terms as the board may determine and such determination shall be notified in writing to the relevant directors.

 

100.2                  Any authorisation under Article 100.1 shall be effective only if:

 

(a)                                  the matter in question shall have been proposed in writing for consideration at a meeting of the board, in accordance with the board’s normal procedures or in such other manner as the board may approve;

 

(b)                                  any requirement as to the quorum at the meeting of the board for that part of the meeting at which the matter is considered is met without counting the director in question and any other interested director (together the “ interested directors ”); and

 

(c)                                   the matter was agreed to without the interested directors voting or would have been agreed to if the votes of the interested directors had not been counted and, subject to the last sentence of Article 100.4 and to Article 100.8, may be terminated by the board at any time after prior consultation with the interested directors, reasonable account being taken of their representations.

 

100.3                  Any reference in Article 100.1 to a conflict of interest includes a conflict of interest and duty and a conflict of duties.  Any authorisation of a matter pursuant to Article 101 shall extend to any actual or potential conflict of interest which may reasonably be expected to arise out of the matter so authorised.

 

100.4                  Any terms determined by the board under Article 100.1(a) or Article 100.1(b) may be imposed at the time of the authorisation or may be imposed or varied subsequently after prior consultation with the interested directors, reasonable account being taken of their representations, and may include:

 

(a)                                  whether the interested director(s) may vote (or be counted in the quorum at a meeting) in relation to any resolution relating to the relevant situation;

 

(b)                                  the exclusion of the interested director(s) from all information and discussion by the board or any committee of the relevant situation; and

 

(c)                                   (without prejudice to the general obligations of confidentiality) the application, subject to Article 100.8, to the interested director(s) of a strict duty of confidentiality to the Company for any confidential information of the Company in relation to the relevant situation.

 

Notwithstanding any other provision of these Articles, no authorisation given in respect of any director may be revoked or amended to the extent that such authorisation was given on or before the date on which the first sale of shares registered under the U.S. securities laws is consummated or relates to the employment, relationship or connection of such director to Parent or any of its subsidiary undertakings.

 

100.5                  A director must act in accordance with any terms determined by the board under Article 100.1(a) or Article 100.1(b) and shall be entitled to rely on any such determination in the absence of fraud.

 

100.6                  Except as specified in Article 100.2, any proposal made to the board and any authorisation by the board in relation to a relevant situation shall be dealt with in the same way as any other matter that may be proposed to and resolved upon by the board in accordance with the provisions of these Articles.

 

100.7                  A director shall be under no duty to the Company with respect to any information which he obtains or has obtained otherwise than as a director of the Company and in respect of which he owes a duty of confidentiality to another person. However, if the relationship with that other person gives rise to a conflict of interest or possible conflict of interest, only if the relevant situation has been authorised by the board

 

42



 

under Article 100.1 then (subject, in any case, to any terms determined by the board under Article 100.1(a) or Article 100.1(b)):

 

(a)                                  where the director obtains (other than through his position as a director) information relating to that relevant situation which is confidential to a third party, he will not be obliged to disclose it to the board or to any director or other officer or employee of the Company or to use it in relation to the Company’s affairs in circumstances where to do so would amount to a breach of that confidence;

 

(b)                                  the director may absent himself from meetings of the board or any committee at which anything relating to that relevant situation will or may be discussed; and

 

(c)                                   the director may make such arrangements as he thinks fit for board and committee papers to be received and read by a professional adviser on his behalf;

 

and the general duties which any director owes to the Company under the Act will not be infringed by anything done (or omitted to be done) in accordance with the provisions of this Article 100.7.

 

100.8                  Notwithstanding any other Article, each director shall be entitled to disclose to the Parent and its directors, officers and employees, any information regarding the Company regardless of how such director became aware of such information (including where he became so aware partly or wholly through the holding of office with, or performance of duties in respect of, the Company) and, to that extent, shall owe no duty of confidentiality to the Company regarding such information.

 

100.9                  A director shall not be liable to account to the Company for any profit, remuneration or other benefit which he (or any person connected with him within the meaning of section 252 of the Act) may derive from any relevant situation authorised under Article 100.1 (subject, in any case, to any terms determined by the board in connection with such authorisation that are notified as aforesaid) and no contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal is liable to be avoided on the grounds of any director (or any person connected with him as aforesaid) having any type of interest authorised under Article 100.1 (subject as aforesaid).

 

101.                         DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST BY DIRECTORS

 

101.1                  A director must declare the nature and extent of his interest in any relevant situation within Article 100.1 to the other directors.

 

101.2                  If a director is in any way, directly or indirectly, interested in a proposed transaction or arrangement with the Company, he must declare the nature and extent of his interest to the other directors.

 

101.3                  Where a director is in any way, directly or indirectly, interested in a transaction or arrangement that has been entered into by the Company, he must declare the nature and extent of his interest to the other directors, unless the interest has already been declared under Article 101.2.

 

101.4                  The declaration of interest must (in the case of Article 101.3) and may, but need not (in the case of Article 101.1 or 101.2) be made:

 

(a)                                  at a meeting of the board; or

 

(b)                                  by notice to the other directors in accordance with either (i) section 184 of the Act (notice in writing); or (ii) section 185 of the Act (general notice).

 

101.5                  If a declaration of interest proves to be, or becomes, inaccurate or incomplete, a further declaration must be made.

 

43



 

101.6                  Any declaration of interest required by Article 101.1 must be made as soon as is reasonably practicable. Failure to comply with this requirement does not affect the underlying duty to make the declaration of interest.

 

101.7                  Any declaration of interest required by Article 101.2 must be made before the Company enters into the transaction or arrangement.

 

101.8                  Any declaration of interest required by Article 101.3 must be made as soon as is reasonably practicable. Failure to comply with this requirement does not affect the underlying duty to make the declaration of interest.

 

101.9                  A declaration in relation to an interest of which the director is not aware, or where the director is not aware of the transaction or arrangement in question, is not required. For this purpose a director is treated as being aware of matters of which he ought reasonably to be aware.

 

101.10           A director need not declare an interest:

 

(a)                                  if it cannot be reasonably be regarded as likely to give rise to a conflict of interest;

 

(b)                                  if, or to the extent that, the other directors are already aware of it (and for this purpose the other directors are treated as being aware of anything of which they ought reasonably to be aware); or

 

(c)                                   if, or to the extent that, it concerns terms of his service contract that have been or are to be considered:

 

(i)                                      by a meeting of the board; or

 

(ii)                                   by a committee appointed for the purpose.

 

102.                         DIRECTORS’ INTERESTS IN RELATION TO TRANSACTIONS OR ARRANGEMENTS WITH THE COMPANY

 

102.1                  Subject to the provisions of the Act and provided he has declared his interest in accordance with and to the extent required by Article 101, a director, notwithstanding his office:

 

(a)                                  may enter into or otherwise be interested in a contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal with the Company or in which the Company is otherwise interested either in connection with his tenure of an office or place of profit or as seller, buyer or otherwise;

 

(b)                                  may hold another office or place of profit with the Company (except that of auditor or auditor of a subsidiary of the Company) in conjunction with the office of director and may act by himself or through his firm in a professional capacity to the Company, and in that case on such terms as to remuneration and otherwise as the board may determine either in addition to or instead of remuneration provided for by another Article; and/or

 

(c)                                   may be or become a director or other officer of, or employed by, or a party to a contract, transaction, arrangement or proposal with or otherwise interested in, a company in which the Company is interested as a shareholder or otherwise or as regards which the Company has a power of appointment.

 

102.2                  A director shall not be liable to account to the Company for any profit, remuneration or other benefit resulting from any interests permitted under Article 102.1 and no contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal is liable to be avoided on the grounds of any director having any type of interest permitted under Article 102.1.

 

44



 

102.3                  A director may not vote on or be counted in the quorum in relation to a resolution of the board or of a committee concerning any contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal with the Company or in which the Company is otherwise interested and in which he has an interest that may reasonably be regarded as likely to give rise to a conflict of interest, but this prohibition does not apply to a resolution concerning any of the following matters:

 

(a)                                  any contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal in which he is interested by virtue of an interest in shares, debentures or other securities of the Company, or otherwise in or through the Company;

 

(b)                                  the giving of a guarantee, security or indemnity in respect of money lent or obligations incurred by him or any other person at the request of or for the benefit of the Company or any of its subsidiary undertakings;

 

(c)                                   the giving of a guarantee, security or indemnity in respect of a debt or obligation of the Company or any of its subsidiary undertakings for which he himself has assumed responsibility in whole or in part, either alone or jointly with others, under a guarantee or indemnity or by the giving of security;

 

(d)                                  a contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal concerning an offer of shares, debentures or other securities of the Company or any of its subsidiary undertakings for subscription or purchase, in which offer he is or may be entitled to participate as a holder of securities or in the underwriting or sub—underwriting of which he is to participate;

 

(e)                                   a contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal to which the Company is or is to be a party concerning another company (including a subsidiary undertaking of the Company) in which he is interested (directly or indirectly) and whether as an officer, shareholder, creditor or otherwise (a “ relevant company ”), if he does not to his knowledge hold an interest in shares (as that term is used in sections 820 to 825 of the Act) representing 1% or more of either any class of the equity share capital of or the voting rights in the relevant company;

 

(f)                                    a contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal for the benefit of the employees of the Company or any of its subsidiary undertakings (including any pension fund or retirement, death or disability scheme) which does not award him a privilege or benefit not generally awarded to the employees to whom it relates; and

 

(g)                                   a contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal concerning:

 

(i)                                      indemnification (including advances or expenses made in connection with it) by the Company in relation to the performance of his duties on behalf of the Company as a director or officer of the Company, or a director or officer or trustee of any other organisation; or

 

(ii)                                   the purchase or maintenance of any insurance policy for the benefit of directors or for the benefit of persons including directors.

 

102.4                  A director may not vote on or be counted in the quorum in relation to a resolution of the board or committee concerning his own appointment (including fixing or varying the terms of his appointment or its termination) as the holder of an office or place of profit with the Company or any company in which the Company is interested. Where proposals are under consideration concerning the appointment (including fixing or varying the terms of appointment or its termination) of two or more directors to offices or places of profit with the Company or a company in which the Company is interested, such proposals shall be divided and a separate resolution considered in relation to each director. In that case each of the directors concerned (if not otherwise debarred from voting under this Article) is entitled to vote (and be counted in the quorum) in respect of each resolution except that concerning his own appointment.

 

45



 

102.5                  If a question arises at a meeting of the board or of a committee as to whether the interest of a director (other than the interest of the chairman of the meeting) may reasonably be regarded as likely to give rise to a conflict of interest or as to the entitlement of a director (other than the chairman) to vote or be counted in a quorum and the question is not resolved by his voluntarily agreeing to abstain from voting or being counted in the quorum, the question shall be referred to the chairman and his ruling in relation to the director concerned is conclusive and binding on all concerned.

 

102.6                  If a question arises at a meeting of the board or of a committee as to whether the interest of the chairman of the meeting may reasonably be regarded as likely to give rise to a conflict of interest or as to the entitlement of the chairman to vote or be counted in a quorum and the question is not resolved by his voluntarily agreeing to abstain from voting or being counted in the quorum, the question shall be determined by resolution of the directors or committee members present at the meeting (excluding the chairman) whose majority vote is conclusive and binding on all concerned.

 

102.7                  For the purposes of this Article, the interest of a person who is connected with (within the meaning of section 252 of the Act) a director is treated as the interest of the director.

 

102.8                  Subject to the provisions of the Act, the Company may by ordinary resolution suspend or relax to any extent the provisions of these Articles probability a director from voting or being counted in a quorum extent or ratify any contract, arrangement, transaction or proposal not properly authorised by reason of a contravention of these Articles.

 

PROCEEDINGS OF DIRECTORS AND COMMITTEES

 

103.                         BOARD MEETINGS

 

103.1                  Subject to these Articles, the board may meet for the dispatch of business, adjourn and otherwise regulate its proceedings as it thinks fit.

 

103.2                  The first board meeting following the election of directors at an annual general meeting shall ordinarily be held immediately following the annual general meeting, but may be held at such other time and place as shall be specified in a notice given to the directors in accordance with Article 104.

 

104.                         NOTICE OF BOARD MEETINGS

 

104.1                  Regular meetings of the board may be held without notice at such time and at such place as shall from time to time be determined by the board.

 

104.2                  Special meetings of the board may be called by the chairman of the board, the chief executive officer or the president on not less than 24 hours’ advance notice to each director, given personally by telephone, in hard copy form or by electronic means; special meetings shall be called by the chief executive officer or secretary, in like manner and on like notice, on the written request of a majority of the directors then in office.

 

104.3                  A director may waive the requirement that notice be given to him of a board meeting, either prospectively or retrospectively.

 

105.                         QUORUM

 

105.1                  The quorum necessary for the transaction of business is a majority of the directors then in office. A duly convened meeting of the board at which a quorum is present is competent to exercise all or any of the authorities, powers and discretions vested in or exercisable by the board.

 

105.2                  If a quorum shall not be present at any board meeting, the directors present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present.

 

46



 

106.                         CHAIRMAN OF BOARD

 

The board may appoint one of its body as chairman to preside at every board meeting at which he is present and one or more deputy chairman or chairmen and determine the period for which he is or they are to hold office (and may at any time remove him or them from office). If no chairman or deputy chairman is elected, or if at a meeting neither the chairman nor a deputy chairman is present within five minutes of the time fixed for the start of the meeting, the directors present shall choose one of their number to be chairman. If two or more deputy chairmen are present, the senior of them shall act as chairman, seniority being determined by length of office since their last appointment or reappointment or deemed reappointment. As between two or more who have held office for an equal length of time, the deputy chairman to act as chairman shall be determined by those directors present. A chairman or deputy chairman may hold executive office or employment with the Company.

 

107.                         VOTING

 

Questions arising at a meeting of the board are determined by a majority of votes.

 

108.                         PARTICIPATION BY TELEPHONE

 

A director may participate in a meeting of the board or a committee through the medium of conference telephone, video teleconference or similar form of communication equipment if all persons participating in the meeting are able to hear and speak to each other throughout the meeting. A person participating in this way is deemed to be present in person at the meeting and is counted in a quorum and entitled to vote. Subject to the provisions of the Act, all business transacted in this way by the board or a committee is for the purposes of these Articles deemed to be validly and effectively transacted at a meeting of the board or a committee although fewer than two directors are physically present at the same place. The meeting is deemed to take place where the largest group of those participating is assembled or, if there is no such group, where the chairman of the meeting then is.

 

109.                         RESOLUTION IN WRITING

 

109.1                  Any director may, and the secretary at the request of a director shall, propose a written resolution by giving written notice to the other directors entitled to receive notice of a meeting of the board or a meeting of a committee (as the case may be).

 

109.2                  A directors’ written resolution is adopted when all the directors entitled to vote on such a resolution have signed one or more copies of it, or otherwise indicated their agreement to it in writing or by electronic means.

 

109.3                  Any resolution in writing is to be kept with the minutes of the proceedings of the board (or committee, as the case may be).

 

109.4                  Once a directors’ written resolution has been adopted, it must be treated as if it had been a resolution passed at a directors’ meeting in accordance with these Articles.

 

110.                         PROCEEDINGS OF COMMITTEES

 

110.1                  At all meetings of committees, a majority of the directors who are members of the committee shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business and the act of a majority of the committee members present at any meeting at which there is a quorum shall be the act of the committee, except as may be otherwise specifically provided by the Act or these Articles. If a quorum shall not be present at any meeting of a committee, the committee members present thereat may adjourn the meeting from time to time, without notice other than announcement at the meeting, until a quorum shall be present.

 

47



 

110.2                  Regular committee meetings may be held without notice at such time and at such place as shall from time to time be determined by the committee.

 

110.3                  Special committee meetings may be called by the chairman of a committee on not less than 24 hours’ advance notice to each committee member, given personally by telephone, in hard copy form or by electronic means; special meetings shall be called by the chief executive officer or secretary, in like manner and on like notice on the written request of two committee members unless the committee consists of only one member, in which case special meetings shall be called by the chief executive officer or secretary in like manner and on like notice on the written request of the sole committee member.

 

110.4                  Subject to these Articles, proceedings of any committee shall be conducted in accordance with applicable provisions of these Articles regulating the proceedings of the board.

 

111.                         MINUTES OF PROCEEDINGS

 

111.1                  The board shall cause minutes to be made in books kept for the purpose of:

 

(a)                                  all appointments of officers and committees made by the board and of any remuneration fixed by the board;

 

(b)                                  all proceedings at meetings of the Company, the holders of any class of shares in the capital of the Company, the board and its Committees, including the names of directors present at every such meetings; and

 

(c)                                   all orders and regulations of the Company.

 

111.2                  Any minutes, purporting to be signed by the chairman of the meeting at which the proceedings were held or by the chairman of the next succeeding meeting, shall be sufficient evidence of the facts stated in them.

 

111.3                  Minutes of every meeting of a committee shall be distributed to all of the directors of the Company.

 

112.                         VALIDITY OF PROCEEDINGS OF BOARD OR COMMITTEE

 

All acts done by a meeting of the board, or of a committee, or by a person acting as a director or member of a committee are, notwithstanding that it is afterwards discovered that there was a defect in the appointment of a person or persons acting, or that they or any of them were or was disqualified from holding office or not entitled to vote, or had in any way vacated their or his office, as valid as if every such person had been duly appointed, and was duly qualified and had continued to be a director or member of a committee and entitled to vote.

 

SECRETARY AND AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS

 

113.                         SECRETARY

 

113.1                  Subject to the provisions of the Act, the board shall appoint a secretary or joint secretaries and may appoint one or more persons to be an assistant or deputy secretary on such terms and conditions (including remuneration) as it thinks fit. Each joint secretary (to the extent appointed) shall, unless otherwise determined by the board, be individually authorised to perform the duties and exercise the powers of the secretary. The board may remove a person appointed pursuant to this Article from office and appoint another or others in his place.

 

113.2                  The secretary or other officer appointed by the board shall attend meetings of the board and general meetings, and record all the proceedings of the general meetings and of the board in a book to be kept for that purpose. The secretary shall give, or cause to be given, notice of all general meetings and meetings of

 

48



 

the board, and shall perform such other duties as may be prescribed by the board or the chief executive officer, under whose supervision he shall act.

 

113.3                  The assistant secretaries, in the order of their seniority, unless otherwise determined by the board, shall, in the event of absence or disability of the secretary, or if directed by the secretary, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the secretary. They shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the board may from time to time prescribe or as the chief executive officer or the secretary may from time to time delegate.

 

113.4                  Any provision of the Act or of these Articles requiring or authorising a thing to be done by or to a director and the secretary is not satisfied by its being done by or to the same person acting both as director and as, or in the place of, the secretary.

 

114.                         AUTHENTICATION OF DOCUMENTS

 

A director or the secretary or another person appointed by the board for the purpose may authenticate documents affecting the constitution of the Company (including these Articles) and resolutions passed by the Company or holders of a class of shares or the board or a committee and books, records, documents and accounts relating to the business of the Company, and certify copies or extracts as true copies or extracts; and where any books, records, documents or accounts are elsewhere than the office, the local manager or other officer of the Company having their custody shall be deemed to be a person appointed by the board for this purpose. A document purporting to be a copy of a resolution, or an extract from the minutes of a meeting, of the Company, the board or any committee which is so certified shall be conclusive evidence in favour of all persons dealing with the Company that such resolution has been duly passed or, as the case may be, that any minute so extracted is a true and accurate record of the proceedings at a duly constituted meeting.

 

SEALS

 

115.                         SAFE CUSTODY

 

The secretary shall provide for the safe custody of every seal.

 

116.                         APPLICATION OF SEALS

 

116.1                  A seal shall have the Company’s name engraved in legible characters.

 

116.2                  Subject to the provisions of these Articles in relation to share certificates issued by the Company in respect of the Company’s shares, stock, debentures or other securities, a seal may be used only by the secretary, treasurer, an assistant secretary or an assistant treasurer with the authority of a resolution of the board. The secretary, treasurer, an assistant secretary, or an assistant treasurer shall sign an instrument (other than such share certificates) to which a seal is affixed. The board may determine, either generally or in a particular case, that a signature may be dispensed with or affixed by mechanical means.

 

DIVIDENDS AND OTHER PAYMENTS

 

117.                         RESERVES

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act, the board may, before paying any dividend (whether preferential or otherwise), carry to reserve out of the profits of the Company such sums as it thinks fit. All sums standing to reserve may be applied from time to time, at the discretion of the board, for any purpose to which the profits of the Company may properly be applied, and pending such application may, at the like discretion, either be employed in the business of the Company or be invested in such investments as the board thinks fit. The board may divide the reserve into such special reserves as it thinks fit, and may consolidate into one fund any special funds or any parts of any special funds into which the reserve may have been divided as it

 

49



 

thinks fit. Any sum which the board may carry to reserve out of the unrealised profits of the Company shall not be mixed with any reserve to which profits available for distribution have been carried. The board may also, without placing the same to reserve, carry forward any profits which it may think prudent not to distribute.

 

118.                         PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act, if the board considers that the financial position of the Company justifies such payments, it can pay interim, final or other dividends on any class of shares of any amounts and on any dates and for any periods which it determines.

 

119.                         ENTITLEMENT TO DIVIDENDS

 

119.1                  All dividends will be divided and paid in proportions based on the amounts paid up on the shares during any period for which the dividend is paid, provided that no dividend (nor, for the avoidance of doubt, any dividend in specie or any scrip dividend payable in accordance with Articles 124 or 125, respectively) shall be payable in respect of any share which is for the time being held by or for the benefit of any organisation which is a subsidiary or subsidiary undertaking of the Company. Sums which have been paid up in advance of calls will not count as paid up for this purpose. If the terms of any share provide that it will be entitled to a dividend as if it were a fully paid up, or partly paid up, share from a particular date (in the past or future), it will be entitled to a dividend on this basis. This Article applies unless these Articles, the rights attached to any shares, or the terms of any shares, provide otherwise.

 

119.2                  If the share capital is divided into different classes, the board may:

 

(a)                                  pay dividends on shares which confer deferred or non-preferred rights with regard to dividends as well as on shares which confer preferential rights with regard to dividends, but no dividend shall be paid on shares carrying deferred or non-preferred rights if, at the time of payment, any preferential dividend is in arrear; and

 

(b)                                  pay at intervals settled by it any dividend payable at a fixed rate if it appears to the board that the profits available for distribution justify the payment.

 

If the board acts in good faith it shall not incur any liability to the holders of shares conferring preferred rights for any loss they may suffer by the lawful payment of an interim dividend on any shares having deferred or non-preferred rights.

 

119.3                  Except as otherwise provided by these Articles or the rights attached to any shares:

 

(a)                                  a dividend or any other money payable in respect of a share can be declared and paid in any currency the board determines;

 

(b)                                  the Company may agree with a shareholder that any dividend declared or that may become due in one currency will be paid to the shareholder in another currency; and

 

(c)                                   with the prior written consent of the Depositary, the board may determine that a Depositary should receive dividends in a currency other than the currency in which they were declared and can make arrangements accordingly; in particular, if a Depositary has chosen or agreed to receive dividends in another currency, the board may make arrangements with the Depositary for payment to be made to the Depositary for value on the date on which the relevant dividend is paid, or a later date determined by the board,

 

in each case using an exchange rate selected by the board for any currency conversions required. The board can also determine how any costs relating to the choice of currency will be met.

 

50


 

119.4                  The board can offer shareholders the choice to receive dividends and other money payable in respect of their shares in a currency other than that in which the dividend or other money payable is declared on such terms and conditions as the board may prescribe from time to time.

 

119.5                  If a shareholder owes the Company any money for calls on shares or money in any other way relating to a share held by him, the board can deduct any of this money from any dividend or other money payable to the shareholder on or in respect of that share. Money deducted in this way can be used to pay amounts owed to the Company.

 

119.6                  Unless the rights attached to any shares, or the terms of any shares, provide otherwise, no dividend or other sum payable by the Company on or in respect of its shares carries a right to interest from the Company.

 

120.                         METHOD OF PAYMENT

 

120.1                  The Company may pay any dividend, interest or other amount payable in respect of a share:

 

(a)                                  in cash;

 

(b)                                  by cheque, warrant or money order made payable to or to the order of the person entitled to the payment (and which may, at the Company’s option, be crossed “account payee” where appropriate);

 

(c)                                   by a bank or other funds transfer system to an account designated in writing by the person entitled to the payment;

 

(d)                                  if the board so determines, by means of a relevant system in respect of an uncertificated share, subject to any procedures established by the board to enable a holder of uncertificated shares to elect not to receive dividends by means of a relevant system and to vary or revoke any such election; or

 

(e)                                   by such other method as the person entitled to the payment may in writing direct and the board may agree.

 

120.2                  The Company may send a cheque, warrant or money order by post:

 

(a)                                  in the case of a sole holder of shares, to his registered address;

 

(b)                                  in the case of joint holders of shares, to the registered address of the person whose name stands first in the register;

 

(c)                                   in the case of a person or persons entitled by transmission to a share, as if it were a notice given in accordance with Article 138;

 

(d)                                  in the case of a Depositary, and subject to the approval of the board, to such persons and postal addresses as the Depositary may direct; or

 

(e)                                   in any case, to a person and address that the person or persons entitled to the payment may in writing direct.

 

120.3                  Where a share is held jointly or two or more persons are jointly entitled by transmission to a share:

 

(a)                                  the Company may pay any dividend, interest or other amount payable in respect of that share to any one joint holder, or any one person entitled by transmission to the share, and in either case that holder or person may give an effective receipt for the payment; and

 

51



 

(b)                                  for any of the purposes of this Article 120, the Company may rely in relation to a share on the written direction or designation of any one joint holder of the share, or any one person entitled by transmission to the share.

 

120.4                  Without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, in respect of shares in uncertificated form, such payment may include the sending by the Company or by any person on its behalf of an instruction to the Operator of the relevant system to credit the cash memorandum account of the holder or joint holders or, if permitted by the Company, of such person as the holder or joint holders may in writing direct.

 

120.5                  Payment of such cheque, warrant or money order, the collection of funds from or transfer of funds by a bank in accordance with such direct debit or bank transfer or, in respect of shares in uncertificated form, the making of payment by means of a relevant system, shall be a good discharge to the Company.

 

120.6                  Every cheque, warrant or money order sent by post is sent at the risk of the person entitled to the payment. If payment is made by bank or other funds transfer, by means of a relevant system or by another method at the direction of the person entitled to payment, the Company is not responsible for amounts lost or delayed in the course of making that payment.

 

120.7                  Without prejudice to Article 68, the board may withhold payment of a dividend (or part of a dividend) payable to a person entitled by transmission to a share until he has provided such evidence of his right as the board may reasonably require.

 

121.                         DIVIDENDS NOT TO BEAR INTEREST

 

No dividend or other amount payable by the Company in respect of a share bears interest as against the Company unless otherwise provided by the rights attached to the share.

 

122.                         UNCLAIMED DIVIDENDS, ETC.

 

Any unclaimed dividend, interest or other amount payable by the Company in respect of a share may be invested or otherwise made use of by the board for the benefit of the Company until claimed. A dividend unclaimed for a period of 12 years from the date it was declared or became due for payment is forfeited and ceases to remain owing by the Company. The payment of an unclaimed dividend, interest or other amount payable by the Company in respect of a share into a separate account does not constitute the Company a trustee in respect of it.

 

123.                         UNCASHED DIVIDENDS

 

If, in respect of a dividend or other amount payable in respect of a share, on any one occasion:

 

(a)                                  a cheque, warrant or money order is returned undelivered or left uncashed; or

 

(b)                                  a transfer made by a bank or other funds transfer system is not accepted;

 

and reasonable enquiries have failed to establish another address or account of the person entitled to the payment, the Company is not obliged to send or transfer a dividend or other amount payable in respect of that share to that person until he notifies the Company of an address or account to be used for that purpose. If the cheque, warrant or money order is returned undelivered or left uncashed or transfer not accepted on two consecutive occasions, the Company may exercise this power without making any such enquiries.

 

124.                         PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS IN SPECIE

 

Without prejudice to Article 68 and Article 144, the board may direct that payment of a dividend may be satisfied wholly or in part by the distribution of specific assets and in particular of paid—up shares or

 

52



 

debentures of another company. Where a difficulty arises in connection with the distribution, the board may settle it as it thinks fit and in particular may:

 

(a)                                  issue fractional certificates (or ignore fractions);

 

(b)                                  fix the value for distribution of the specific assets (or any part of them);

 

(c)                                   determine that a cash payment be made to a shareholder on the basis of the value so fixed, in order to secure equality of distribution; and

 

(d)                                  vest assets in trustees on trust for the persons entitled to the dividend as seems expedient to the board.

 

125.                         PAYMENT OF SCRIP DIVIDENDS

 

125.1                  Subject to the provisions of the Act, but without prejudice to Article 68 and Article 144, the board may allot to those holders of a particular class of shares who have elected to receive them further shares of that class or shares of any other class in either case credited as fully paid (“ new shares ”) instead of cash in respect of all or part of any dividend or dividends, subject to any exclusions, restrictions or other arrangements the board may in its absolute discretion deem necessary or expedient to deal with legal or practical problems under the laws of, or the requirements of a recognised regulatory body or a stock exchange in, any territory.

 

125.2                  The board shall determine the basis of allotment of new shares so that, as nearly as may be considered convenient without involving rounding up of fractions, the value of the new shares (including a fractional entitlement) to be allotted (calculated by reference to the average quotation, or the nominal value of the new shares, if greater) equals (disregarding an associated tax credit) the amount of the dividend which would otherwise have been received by the holder (the “ relevant dividend ”). For this purpose the “ average quotation ” of each of the new shares is the average of the middle—market quotations for a fully—paid share of the Company of that class derived from such source as the board may deem appropriate for the business day on which the relevant class of shares is first quoted “ex” the relevant dividend (or such other date as the board may deem appropriate) and the four subsequent business day(s). A certificate or report by the auditors as to the value of the new shares to be allotted in respect of any dividend shall be conclusive evidence of that amount.

 

125.3                  The board may make any provision it considers appropriate in relation to an allotment made or to be made pursuant to this Article, including:

 

(a)                                  the giving of notice to holders of the right of election offered to them;

 

(b)                                  the provision of forms of election (whether in respect of a particular dividend or dividends generally);

 

(c)                                   determination of the procedure for making and revoking elections;

 

(d)                                  the place at which, and the latest time by which, forms of election and other relevant documents must be lodged in order to be effective;

 

(e)                                   the disregarding or rounding up or down or carrying forward of fractional entitlements, in whole or in part, or the accrual of the benefit of fractional entitlements to the Company (rather than to the holders concerned); and

 

(f)                                    the exclusion from any offer to elect to receive scrip dividends of any holders of shares where the board considers that the making of the offer to them would or might involve the contravention of the laws of any territory or that for any other reason the offer should not be made to them.

 

53



 

125.4                  The board can exclude or restrict the right to elect to receive new shares under this Article 125 in the case of any shareholder or other person who is a Depositary if the election by such shareholder or Depositary on behalf of any person holding any interest in the shares would involve the contravention of the laws of any territory or if for any other reason the board determines that the offer to elect to receive new shares should not be made to any such person.

 

125.5                  The dividend (or that part of the dividend in respect of which a right of election has been offered) is not declared or payable on shares in respect of which an election has been duly made (the “ elected shares ”); instead new shares are allotted to the holders of the elected shares on the basis of allotment calculated as in Article 125.2. For that purpose, the board may resolve to capitalise out of amounts standing to the credit of reserves (including a share premium account, capital redemption reserve and profit and loss account), whether or not available for distribution, a sum equal to the aggregate nominal amount of the new shares to be allotted and apply it in paying up in full the appropriate number of new shares for allotment and distribution to the holders of the elected shares. A resolution of the board capitalising part of the reserves has the same effect as if the board had resolved to effect the capitalisation pursuant to Article 126. In relation to the capitalisation the board may exercise all the powers conferred on it by Article 126.

 

125.6                  The new shares rank pari passu in all respects with each other and with the fully—paid shares of the same class in issue on the record date for the dividend in respect of which the right of election has been offered, but they will not rank for a dividend or other distribution or entitlement which has been declared or paid by reference to that record date.

 

125.7                  In relation to any particular proposed dividend, the board may in its absolute discretion determine:

 

(a)                                  that shareholders shall not be entitled to make any election in respect thereof and that any election previously made shall not extend to such dividend; or

 

(b)                                  at any time prior to the allotment of the new shares which would otherwise be allotted in lieu thereof, that all elections to take ordinary shares in lieu of such dividend shall be treated as not applying to that dividend, and if so the dividend shall be paid in cash as if no elections had been made in respect of it.

 

126.                         CAPITALISATION OF RESERVES

 

Subject to the provisions of the Act and Articles 127, the board may:

 

(a)                                  resolve to capitalise an amount standing to the credit of reserves (including a share premium account, capital redemption reserve and profit and loss account), whether or not available for distribution;

 

(b)                                  appropriate the sum resolved to be capitalised to the shareholders in proportion to the nominal amount of shares (whether or not fully paid) held by them respectively and apply that sum on their behalf in or towards:

 

(i)                                      paying up the amounts (if any) for the time being unpaid on shares held by them respectively; or

 

(ii)                                   paying up in full unissued shares or debentures of a nominal amount equal to that sum;

 

and allot the shares or debentures, credited as fully paid, to the shareholders (or as they may direct) in those proportions, or partly in one way and partly in the other, but the share premium account, the capital redemption reserve and profits which are not available for distribution may, for the purposes of this Article, only be applied in paying up unissued shares to be allotted to shareholders credited as fully paid;

 

54



 

(c)                                   make any arrangements it thinks fit to resolve a difficulty arising in the distribution of a capitalised reserve and in particular where shares or debentures become distributable in fractions the board may deal with the fractions as it thinks fit, including issuing fractional certificates, disregarding fractions or selling shares or debentures representing the fractions to a person for the best price reasonably obtainable and distributing the net proceeds of the sale in due proportion amongst the shareholders (except that if the amount due to a shareholder is less than £5.00, or such other sum as the board may determine, the sum may be retained for the benefit of the Company);

 

(d)                                  authorise a person to enter (on behalf of all the shareholders concerned) into an agreement with the Company providing for either:

 

(i)                                      the allotment to the shareholders respectively, credited as fully paid, of shares or debentures to which they may be entitled on the capitalisation, or

 

(ii)                                   the payment by the Company on behalf of the shareholders (by the application of their respective proportions of the reserves resolved to be capitalised) of the amounts or part of the amounts remaining unpaid on their existing shares, an agreement made under the authority being effective and binding on all those shareholders; and

 

(e)                                   generally do all acts and things required to give effect to the resolution.

 

127.                         CAPITALISATION OF RESERVES — EMPLOYEES’ SHARE SCHEMES

 

127.1                  This Article (which is without prejudice to the generality of the provisions of the immediately preceding Article 126) applies where:

 

(a)                                  a person is granted pursuant to an employees’ share scheme a right to subscribe for shares in the capital of the Company in cash at a subscription price less than their nominal value; and

 

(b)                                  pursuant to an employees’ share scheme, the terms on which any person is entitled to subscribe for shares in the capital of the Company are adjusted as a result of a capitalisation issue, rights issue or other variation of capital so that the subscription price is less than their nominal value.

 

127.2                  In any such case the board shall:

 

(a)                                  transfer to a reserve account a sum equal to the deficiency between the subscription price and the nominal value of the shares (the “ cash deficiency ”) from the profits or reserves of the Company which are available for distribution and not required for the payment of any preferential dividend; and

 

(b)                                  subject to Article 127.4, not apply that reserve account for any purpose other than paying up the cash deficiency on the allotment of those shares.

 

127.3                  Whenever the Company is required to allot shares pursuant to such a right to subscribe, the board shall, subject to the provisions of the Act:

 

(a)                                  appropriate to capital out of the reserve account an amount equal to the cash deficiency applicable to those shares;

 

(b)                                  apply that amount in paying up the deficiency on the nominal value of those shares; and

 

(c)                                   allot those shares credited as fully paid to the person entitled to them.

 

55



 

127.4                  If any person ceases to be entitled to subscribe for shares as described, the restrictions on the reserve account shall cease to apply in relation to such part of the account as is equal to the amount of the cash deficiency applicable to those shares.

 

127.5                  No right shall be granted under any employees’ share scheme under Article 127.1(a) and no adjustment shall be made as mentioned in Article 127.1(b) unless there are sufficient profits or reserves of the Company available for distribution and not required for the payment of any preferential dividend to permit the transfer to a reserve account in accordance with this Article of an amount sufficient to pay up the cash deficiency applicable to the shares concerned.

 

128.                         [OMITTED]

 

129.                         RECORD DATES

 

Notwithstanding any other provision of these Articles, but subject to the provisions of the Act and rights attached to shares, the board may fix any date (which shall not be more than 60 days before the date on which a dividend, distribution, allotment or issue is declared, made or paid) as the record date for a dividend, distribution, allotment or issue.

 

ACCOUNTS

 

130.                         TREASURER

 

130.1                  The treasurer shall have the custody of the corporate funds and securities, and shall keep full and accurate accounts of receipts and disbursements in books belonging to the Company, and shall deposit all moneys and other valuable effects in the name and to the credit of the Company in such depositories as may be designated by the board.

 

130.2                  The treasurer shall disburse the funds of the Company as may be ordered by the board, taking proper vouchers for such disbursements, and shall render to the chief executive officer and the board at its meetings, or when the board so requires, an account of all his transactions as treasurer, and of the financial condition of the Company, which account may be submitted directly or through the chief financial officer. The treasurer shall perform such other duties and have such other authority and powers as the board may from time to time prescribe or as the chief executive officer may from time to time delegate.

 

130.3                  If required by the board, the treasurer shall provide the Company a bond in such sum, and with such surety or sureties, as shall be satisfactory to the board for the faithful execution of the duties of his office, in case of his death, resignation, retirement or removal from office, of all books, papers, vouchers, money and other property of whatever kind in his possession or under his control belonging to the Company.

 

130.4                  The assistant treasurers, in the order of their seniority, unless otherwise determined by the board, shall, in the event of absence or disability of the treasurer, perform the duties and exercise the powers of the treasurer. They shall perform such other duties and have such other powers as the board may from time to time prescribe or the chief executive officer may from time to time delegate.

 

131.                         KEEPING AND INSPECTION OF ACCOUNTING RECORDS

 

131.1                  The board shall ensure that accounting records are kept in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

 

131.2                  The accounting records shall be kept at the office or, subject to the provisions of the Act, at another place determined by the board and shall be available at all times for the inspection of the directors and other officers. No shareholder (other than a director or other officer who is also a shareholder and in his capacity as an officer or director) has the right to inspect an accounting record or other document except if that right is conferred by the Act or ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction or he is authorised by the board or by an ordinary resolution of the Company.

 

56



 

132.                         ACCOUNTS TO BE SENT TO SHAREHOLDERS, ETC.

 

132.1                  In respect of each financial year, a copy of the Company’s annual accounts and reports on those accounts shall be sent to:

 

(a)                                  every shareholder (whether or not entitled to receive notices of general meetings);

 

(b)                                  every holder of debentures (whether or not entitled to receive notices of general meetings); and

 

(c)                                   every other person who is entitled to receive notices of general meetings;

 

not less than 21 clear days before the date of the meeting at which copies of those documents are to be laid in accordance with the Act (the “ accounts meeting ”).

 

This Article does not require copies of the documents to which it applies to be sent to:

 

(d)                                  a person for whom the Company does not have a current address; or

 

(e)                                   more than one of the joint holders of shares or debentures.

 

132.2                  The board may determine that persons entitled to receive a copy of the Company’s annual accounts, the directors’ report and the auditors’ report on those accounts and on the directors’ report are those persons entered on the register at the close of business on a day determined by the board, provided that, if the Company is a participating issuer, the day determined by the board may not be more than 21 days before the day that the relevant copies are being sent.

 

132.3                  Where permitted by the Act, a copy of the strategic report together with any supplementary material containing the information prescribed by the Act may be sent to a person so electing in place of the documents required to be sent by Article 132.1.

 

133.                         EXTERNAL AUDITOR

 

The audit committee shall have exclusive authority and responsibility to recommend, approve the compensation of, and oversee the Company’s external audit firm. The external auditor shall be recommended by the audit committee on an annual basis, and such auditor recommendation shall be submitted for shareholder approval at the accounts meeting.

 

NOTICES

 

134.                         NOTICES TO BE IN WRITING

 

134.1                  A notice to be given to or by any person pursuant to these Articles shall be in writing.

 

134.2                  Where any notice is required to be given under the Act or these Articles, to the extent permitted by the Act, a waiver thereof in writing and signed by the persons entitled to such notice, whether before or after the time stated therein, shall be deemed equivalent thereto.

 

135.                         SERVICE OF NOTICES, DOCUMENTS AND INFORMATION ON SHAREHOLDERS

 

135.1                  Any notice, document or information may be given, sent or supplied by the Company to any shareholder:

 

(a)                                  personally;

 

(b)                                  by sending it by post in a pre—paid envelope addressed to the shareholder at his registered address;

 

57



 

(c)                                   by hand at the shareholder’s registered address;

 

(d)                                  by sending it in electronic form to the electronic address specified for the purpose by the shareholder (generally or specifically), provided that the shareholder has agreed (generally or specifically) that the notice, document or information may be sent or supplied in that form (and has not revoked that agreement); or

 

(e)                                   subject to the provisions of the Act, by making it available on a website, provided that the requirements in Article 135.2 are satisfied.

 

135.2                  The requirements referred to in Article 135.1(e) are that:

 

(a)                                  the shareholder has agreed (generally or specifically) that the notice, document or information may be sent or supplied to him by being made available on a website (and has not revoked that agreement), or the shareholder has been asked by the Company to agree that the Company may send or supply notices, documents and information generally, or the notice, document or information in question, to him by making it available on a website and the Company has not received a response within the period of 28 days beginning with the date on which the Company’s request was sent and the shareholder is therefore taken to have so agreed (and has not revoked that agreement);

 

(b)                                  the shareholder is sent a notification of the presence of the notice, document or information on a website, the address of that website, the place on that website where it may be accessed, and how it may be accessed (“ notice of availability ”);

 

(c)                                   in the case of a notice of general meeting, the notice of availability states that it concerns a notice of a general meeting of the Company, specifies the place, date and time of the meeting, and states whether it will be an annual general meeting; and

 

(d)                                  the notice, document or information continues to be published on that website, in the case of a notice of meeting, throughout the period beginning with the date of the notice of availability and ending with the conclusion of the meeting and, in all other cases, throughout the period specified by any applicable provision of the Act or, if no such period is specified, throughout the period of 28 days beginning with the date on which the notice of availability is sent to the shareholder, save that if the notice, document or information is made available for part only of that period then failure to make it available throughout that period shall be disregarded where such failure is wholly attributable to circumstances which it would not be reasonable to have expected the Company to prevent or avoid.

 

135.3                  In the case of joint holders of shares:

 

(a)                                  it shall be sufficient for all notices, documents and other information to be given, sent or supplied to the joint holder whose name stands first in the register in respect of the joint holding (the “ first named holder ”) only; and

 

(b)                                  anything to be agreed or specified in relation to any notice, document or information to be sent or supplied to them may be agreed or specified by the first named holder and any such agreement or specification shall be binding on all the joint holders.

 

135.4                  For the avoidance of doubt, the provisions of this Article 135 are subject to Article 44.

 

135.5                  The Company may at any time and at its sole discretion choose to give, send or supply notices, documents and information only in hard copy form to some or all shareholders.

 

58



 

136.                         EVIDENCE OF SERVICE

 

136.1                  Any notice, document or information given, sent or supplied by the Company to the shareholders or any of them:

 

(a)                                  by being delivered or left (other than by post) at a registered address or address for service (other than an address for the purposes of communicating by electronic means) shall be deemed to have been served or delivered on the day it was so delivered or left;

 

(b)                                  by post, shall be deemed to have been received 24 hours after the time at which the envelope containing the notice, document or information was posted unless it was sent by second class post or there is only one class of post in which case it shall be deemed to have been received 48 hours after it was posted. Proof that the envelope was properly addressed, prepaid and posted shall be conclusive evidence that the notice, document or information was sent;

 

(c)                                   by electronic means, shall be deemed to have been received 6 hours after it was sent provided that the Company is able to show that it was properly addressed;

 

(d)                                  by making it available on a website, shall be deemed to have been received on the date on which notice of availability on the website is deemed to have been received in accordance with this Article or, if later, the date on which it is first made available on the website; or

 

(e)                                   by means of a relevant system shall be deemed to have been received 24 hours after the Company, or any sponsoring system—participant acting on the Company’s behalf, sends the issuer—instruction relating to the notice, document or information.

 

136.2                  Any notice, document or information given, sent or supplied by the Company by any other means authorised in writing by the shareholder concerned is deemed to be received when the Company has taken the action it has been authorised to take for that purpose.

 

136.3                  A shareholder present in person or by proxy at a meeting or at a meeting of the holders of a class of shares is deemed to have received due notice of the meeting and, where required, of the purposes for which it was called.

 

137.                         NOTICE BINDING ON TRANSFEREES, ETC.

 

A person who becomes entitled to a share by transmission, transfer or otherwise is bound by a notice in respect of that share (other than a notice served by the Company under section 793 of the Act) which, before his name is entered in the register, has been properly served on a person from whom he derives his title.

 

138.                         NOTICE IN CASE OF ENTITLEMENT BY TRANSMISSION

 

Where a person is entitled by transmission to a share, any notice, document or information may be given, sent or supplied by the Company to that person as if he were the holder of a share by sending or delivering it in any manner authorised by these Articles for the giving of notice to a shareholder addressed to that person by name, or by the title of representative of the deceased or trustee of the bankrupt shareholder (or by similar designation), at the address supplied for that purpose by the person claiming to be entitled by transmission. Until such an address has been supplied, any notice, document or information may be given, sent or supplied in any manner in which it might have been given if the death or bankruptcy or other event had not occurred. The giving of notice in accordance with this Article is sufficient notice to any other person interested in the share.

 

59



 

139.                         VALIDATION OF DOCUMENTS IN ELECTRONIC FORM

 

139.1                  Where a document is required under these Articles to be signed by a shareholder or any other person, if the document is in electronic form, then in order to be valid the document must either:

 

(a)                                  incorporate the electronic signature, or personal identification details (which may be details previously allocated by the Company), of that shareholder or other person, in such form as the board may approve; or

 

(b)                                  be accompanied by such other evidence, such as an identification or control number, as the board may require in order to be satisfied that the document is genuine.

 

139.2                  The Company may designate mechanisms for validating any document in electronic form and a document not validated by the use of any such mechanisms shall be deemed as having not been received by the Company. In the case of any document or information relating to a meeting, an instrument of proxy or invitation to appoint a proxy, any validation requirements shall be specified in the relevant notice of meeting in accordance with 43 and 62.

 

MISCELLANEOUS

 

140.                         DISPUTE RESOLUTION

 

140.1                  The courts of England and Wales shall have exclusive jurisdiction to determine any dispute brought by a shareholder in that shareholder’s capacity as such, or related to or connected with any derivative claim in respect of a cause of action vested in the Company or seeking relief on behalf of the Company, against the Company, the board or any of the directors, officers, employees or shareholders individually (or any combination of the foregoing persons), arising out of or in connection with these Articles or (to the maximum extent permitted by applicable law) otherwise.

 

140.2                  Damages alone may not be an adequate remedy for any breach of this Article 0, so that, in the event of a breach or anticipated breach, the remedies of injunction and an order for specific performance would in appropriate circumstances be available.

 

140.3                  The governing law of these Articles is the substantive law of England and Wales and these Articles shall be interpreted and construed in accordance with such law.

 

140.4                  For the purposes of this Article 140:

 

(a)                                  a “ dispute ” shall mean any dispute, controversy or claim;

 

(b)                                  references to “ Company ” shall be read so as to include the Company; and

 

(c)                                   director ” and “ officer ” shall be read so as to include each and any director and officer of the Company from time to time in his capacity as such or as an employee of the Company and shall include any former director or officer of the Company.

 

141.                         DESTRUCTION OF DOCUMENTS

 

141.1                  The Company may destroy:

 

(a)                                  a share certificate which has been cancelled at any time after one year from the date of cancellation;

 

60


 

(b)                                  a mandate for the payment of dividends or other amounts or a variation or cancellation of a mandate or a notification of change of name or address at any time after two years from the date the mandate, variation, cancellation or notification was recorded by the Company;

 

(c)                                   an instrument of transfer of shares (including a document constituting the renunciation of an allotment of shares) which has been registered and all other documents on the basis of which any entry in the register at any time after six years from the date of registration;

 

(d)                                  any instrument of proxy which has been used for the purpose of a poll at any time after one year from the date of use; and

 

(e)                                   any instrument of proxy which has not been used for the purpose of a poll at any time after one month from the end of the general meeting or annual general meeting to which the instrument of proxy relates;

 

provided that the Company may destroy any such type of document at a date earlier than that authorised by this Article 141 if a copy of such document is made and retained (whether electronically, by microfilm, by digital imaging or by other similar means) until the expiration of the period applicable to the destruction of the original document.

 

141.2                  It is conclusively presumed in favour of the Company that every share certificate destroyed in accordance with this Article was a valid certificate validly cancelled, that every instrument of transfer destroyed in accordance with this Article was a valid and effective instrument duly and properly registered, that every entry in the register purporting to have been made on the basis of an instrument of transfer or other document destroyed in accordance with this Article was duly and properly made and that every other document destroyed in accordance with this Article was a valid and effective document in accordance with the recorded particulars in the books or records of the Company, but:

 

(a)                                  the provisions of this Article apply only to the destruction of a document in good faith and without express notice to the Company that the document is relevant to a claim;

 

(b)                                  nothing contained in this Article imposes on the Company any liability in respect of the destruction of a document earlier than provided for in this Article or in any case where the conditions of this Article are not fulfilled; and

 

(c)                                   references in this Article to the destruction of a document include reference to its disposal in any manner.

 

142.                         WINDING UP

 

Subject to the provisions of these Articles, on a voluntary winding up of the Company the liquidator may as he shall determine, on obtaining any sanction required by law, (a) divide among the shareholders in kind the whole or any part of the assets of the Company, whether or not the assets consist of property of one kind or of different kinds, and (b) vest the whole or any part of the assets in trustees for the benefit of the shareholders. For this purpose the liquidator may set the value he deems fair on a class or classes of property, and may determine on the basis of that valuation and in accordance with the then existing rights of shareholders how the division is to be carried out between shareholders or classes of shareholders. The liquidator may not, however, distribute to a shareholder without his consent any asset to which there is attached a liability or potential liability for the owner.  The liquidator may not, however, distribute to a shareholder without his consent any asset on which there is a liability or potential liability for the owner. The power of sale of a liquidator shall include a power to sell wholly or partially shares or debentures or other obligations of another body corporate, either then already constituted, or about to be constituted, for the purpose of carrying out the sale.

 

61



 

143.                         INDEMNITY

 

143.1                  To the fullest extent permitted by the Act (and any other applicable laws) and without prejudice to any indemnity to which any person may otherwise be entitled, the Company shall:

 

(a)                                  indemnify, out of assets of the Company, any person who is or was a director of the Company, or a director of any associated company, or is or was serving or has agreed to serve at the request of the Company as a director, partner, trustee, officer or fiduciary of another organisation or trustee of any employee benefit plan, directly or indirectly against all loss or liability, whether in connection with any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust by him or otherwise, in relation to the Company, any associated company or such other organisation or employee benefit plan, where the basis of such proceeding is the execution or discharge of the duties of his office or otherwise related thereto;

 

(b)                                  indemnify, out of assets of the Company, any person who is or was a director of the Company, or a director of any associated company where the Company or such associated company acts as a trustee of a pension scheme, directly or indirectly against any liability incurred by him in connection with the company’s or the individual’s activities as trustee of such pension scheme;

 

(c)                                   create a trust fund, grant a security interest and/or use other means (including insurance, letters of credit, surety bonds and/or other similar arrangements), as well as enter into contracts providing indemnification to the full extent authorised or permitted by law and including as part thereof provisions with respect to any or all of the foregoing paragraphs of this Article 143.1 to ensure the payment of such amounts as may become necessary to effect indemnification as provided therein, or elsewhere;

 

provided that this Article 143 shall only have effect insofar as its provisions are not void under sections 232 or 234 of the Act ;

 

143.2                  Subject to sections 205(2) to (4) of the Act, the Company shall provide a director with funds to meet expenditures incurred or to be incurred by him in defending (or seeking relief in respect of) any civil or criminal proceedings brought or threatened against him in connection with any alleged negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust by him in relation to the Company or an associated company, and the Company shall be permitted to take or omit to take any action or enter into any arrangement which would otherwise be prohibited under sections 197 to 203 of the Act to enable a director to avoid incurring such expenditure.

 

143.3                  The Company shall also provide a director with funds to meet expenditures incurred or to be incurred by him in defending himself in an investigation by a regulatory authority or against action proposed to be taken by a regulatory authority in connection with any alleged negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust by him in relation to the Company or any associated company and the Company shall be permitted to take or omit to take any action or enter into any arrangement which would otherwise be prohibited under section 197 of the Act to enable a director to avoid incurring such expenditure.

 

143.4                  For the purpose of Article 143 the expression associated company shall mean a company which is either a subsidiary or a holding company of the Company or a subsidiary of such holding company, as such terms are defined in the Act.

 

143.5                  Where a person is indemnified against any liability in accordance with this Article , such indemnity shall extend to all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities incurred by him in relation thereto.

 

62



 

NOTIFICATION OF INTERESTS IN SHARES

 

144.                         INTERESTS IN SHARES

 

144.1                  For the purposes of Article 144.2 through Article 144.14:

 

(a)                                  Relevant Share Capital ” means any class of the Company’s issued share capital carrying rights to vote in all circumstances at general meetings of the Company; and for the avoidance of doubt (1) where the Company’s share capital is divided into different classes of shares, references to Relevant Share Capital are to each such class taken separately and (2) any adjustment to or restriction on the voting rights attached to shares shall not affect the application of this Article in relation to interests in those or any other shares; and

 

(b)                                  interested ” shall be construed as it is for the purposes of section 793 of the Act.

 

144.2                  The provisions of Article 141.1 through Article 144.14 are in addition to and separate from any other rights or obligations arising at law or otherwise.

 

144.3                  A shareholder (other than a Depositary holding Relevant Share Capital for the purpose of enabling any shares or other securities of the Company to be traded in uncertificated form) shall notify the Company of his interests (if any) in Relevant Share Capital if:

 

(a)                                  he has a notifiable interest immediately after the relevant time, but did not have such an interest immediately before that time;

 

(b)                                  he had a notifiable interest immediately before the relevant time, but does not have such an interest immediately after it; or

 

(c)                                   he had a notifiable interest immediately before the relevant time, and has such an interest immediately after it, but the percentage levels of his interest immediately before and immediately after that time are not the same.

 

144.4                  A shareholder (other than a Depositary holding Relevant Share Capital (i) for the purpose of enabling any shares or other securities of the Company to be traded in uncertificated form or (ii)  on behalf of the Parent) shall, to the extent he is lawfully able to do so, notify the Company of the interests of any other person in the Relevant Share Capital of which he is the registered holder (or, to the extent he is not lawfully able to make such notification, shall use his reasonable endeavours to procure that such person makes notification of his interests to the Company) if:

 

(a)                                  such person has a notifiable interest immediately after the relevant time, but did not have such an interest immediately before that time;

 

(b)                                  such person had a notifiable interest immediately before the relevant time, but does not have such an interest immediately after it; or

 

(c)                                   such person had a notifiable interest immediately before the relevant time, and has such an interest immediately after it, but the percentage levels of his interest immediately before and immediately after that time are not the same.

 

144.5                  The expression “percentage level” in Article 144.3(c) and 144.4(c), means the percentage figure found by expressing the aggregate nominal value of all the shares comprised in the Relevant Share Capital concerned in which the person has interests immediately before or (as the case may be) immediately after the relevant time as a percentage of the aggregate nominal value of that Relevant Share Capital and rounding that figure down, if it is not a whole number, to the next whole number. Where the aggregate nominal value of the Relevant Share Capital is greater immediately after the relevant time than it was immediately before, the

 

63



 

percentage level of the person’s interest immediately before (as well as immediately after) that time shall be determined by reference to the larger amount.

 

144.6                  For the purposes of Article 144.3, 144.4 and 144.11:

 

(a)                                  relevant time ” means:

 

(i)                                      the time at which (A) a person acquires an interest in shares comprised in Relevant Share Capital; or (B) a person ceases to be interested in shares comprised in Relevant Share Capital; or (C) another change of circumstances affecting facts relevant to the application of this Article occurs, in each case provided that the person is aware of such acquisition, cessation or change in circumstances at the time it occurs; and

 

(ii)                                   where a person is not so aware, the time at which (A) that person becomes aware that he has acquired an interest in shares comprised in Relevant Share Capital; or (B) that person becomes aware that he has ceased to be interested in shares comprised in Relevant Share Capital; or (C) that person otherwise becomes aware of any facts relevant to the application of this Article (whether or not arising from a change of circumstances).

 

(b)                                  a person who is interested in shares comprised in Relevant Share Capital has a “notifiable interest” at any time when the aggregate nominal value of the shares in the Relevant Share Capital in which he has such interests is equal to or more than 5 per cent of the aggregate nominal value of that Relevant Share Capital;

 

144.7                  Any notification required by to be made by a shareholder under Article 144.3 and Article 144.4 must be made in writing to the Company within the period of 2 days next following the day on which that obligation arises. To the extent a shareholder is not lawfully able to make a notification under Article 144.4, such shareholder shall use its reasonable endeavours to procure that the relevant person notifies his interests to the Company within such 2 day period or within such longer period as the Directors may allow.

 

144.8                  The notification shall specify the share capital of the Company to which it relates, and must also:

 

(a)                                  state the number of shares comprised in that share capital in which the person making the notification knows he (or any other relevant person) had interests immediately after the time when the obligation arose; or

 

(b)                                  in a case where the person making the notification (or any other relevant person) no longer has a notifiable interest in shares comprised in that share capital, state that he (or that other person) no longer has that interest.

 

144.9                  A notification (other than one stating that a person no longer has a notifiable interest) shall include the following particulars, so far as known to the person making the notification at the date when it is made:

 

(a)                                  the identity of each registered holder of shares to which the notification relates and the number of such shares held by each of them; and

 

(b)                                  the nature of the relevant interests in such shares.

 

144.10           A person (other than a depositary holding Relevant Share Capital for the purpose of enabling any shares or other securities of the Company to be traded in uncertificated form) who has an interest in shares comprised in Relevant Share Capital or knows or becomes aware that any other person has an interest in shares so comprised of which he is the registered holder, that interest being notifiable, shall notify (or, to the extent he is not lawfully able to make such notification, shall use his reasonable endeavours to procure that such other person shall notify) the Company in writing:

 

64



 

(a)                                  of any particulars in relation to those shares which are specified in Article 144.9; and

 

(b)                                  of any change in those particulars of which in either case he becomes aware at any time after any interest notification date and before the first occasion following that date on which he comes under any further obligation of disclosure with respect to his interest in shares comprised in that share capital. A notification required under this Article 144.10 shall be made within the period of 2 days next following the day on which it arises. The reference to an “interest notification date,” in relation to a person’s interest in shares comprised in the Company’s Relevant Share Capital, is to either the date of any notification made or procured by him with respect to his or any other person’s interest under this Article or   where he has failed to make, or procure the making of, a notification, the date on which the period allowed for making it came to an end.

 

144.11           A person who at any time has a notifiable interest in shares is to be regarded under Article 144.10 as continuing to have a notifiable interest in them unless and until the registered holder of the shares in question comes under an obligation to make or use his reasonable endeavours to procure a notification stating that he (or any other relevant person) no longer has such an interest in those shares.

 

144.12           Where a person authorises another (the “agent”) to acquire or dispose of, on his behalf, interests in shares comprised in the Relevant Share Capital, he shall secure that the agent notifies him immediately of acquisitions or disposals effected by the agent which will or may give rise to any obligation of disclosure imposed on him by this Article with respect to his interest in that share capital.

 

144.13           If it shall come to the notice of the Board that any shareholder has not, within the requisite period, made or, as the case may be, procured the making of any notification required by Article 144.3, Article 144.4 or Article 144.10, the Company may (in the absolute discretion of the Board) at any time thereafter give notice to such shareholder and such notice shall have the same contents and effect, and be subject to the same provisions of these Articles as if it were a direction notice given under Article 68, provided that the provisions of Article 68.1(b)(ii) shall not apply to any shares subject to such a direction notice.

 

144.14           For the purposes of this Article 144.14, Article 144.3, Article 144.4 or Article 144.10, a person shall be treated as appearing to be interested in any shares if the shareholder holding such shares has given to the Company a notification whether following service of a notice in accordance with the Act or otherwise which either:

 

(a)                                  names such person as being so interested; or

 

(b)                                  (after taking into account any such notification and any other relevant information in the possession of the Company) the Company knows or has reasonable cause to believe that the person in question is or may be interested in the shares.

 

TRANSACTIONS WITH INTERESTED SHAREHOLDERS

 

145.                         TRANSACTIONS WITH INTERESTED SHAREHOLDERS

 

145.1                  The Company shall not engage in any Business Combination with any Interested Shareholder for a period of 3 years following the date that such shareholder became an Interested Shareholder, unless:

 

(a)                                  prior to such date the Board approved either the Business Combination or the transaction which resulted in the shareholder becoming an Interested Shareholder, or

 

(b)                                  upon consummation of the transaction which resulted in the shareholder becoming an Interested Shareholder, the Interested Shareholder owned at least 85 per cent. of the Voting Shares of the Company issued at the time the transaction commenced, excluding for these purposes, shares owned by (i) persons who are Directors and also executive officers of the Company and (ii) employee share plans in which employee participants do not have the right to determine

 

65



 

confidentially whether shares held subject to the plan will be tendered in a tender or exchange offer, or

 

(c)                                   on or subsequent to such date the Business Combination is approved by the Board and authorised at a general meeting of shareholders, and not by written consent, by the affirmative vote of at least 66.66 per cent of the issued Voting Shares which are not owned by the Interested Shareholder.

 

145.2                  The restrictions contained in Article 144.1 shall not apply:

 

(a)                                  Prior to the Trigger Date; or

 

(b)                                  if a shareholder becomes an Interested Shareholder inadvertently and (i) as soon as practicable divests itself of ownership of sufficient shares so that the shareholder ceases to be an Interested Shareholder and (ii) would not, at any time within the 3 year period immediately prior to a Business Combination between the Company and such shareholder, have been an interested shareholder but for the inadvertent acquisition of ownership; or

 

(c)                                   if the Business Combination is proposed prior to the consummation or abandonment of and subsequent to the earlier of the public announcement or any notice required hereunder of a proposed transaction which:

 

(i)                                      constitutes one of the transactions described in Article 145.3;

 

(ii)                                   is with or by a person who either was not an Interested Shareholder during the previous 3 years or who became an Interested Shareholder with the approval of the Board of Directors; and

 

(iii)                                is approved or not opposed by a majority of the shareholders of the Board of Directors then in office (but not less than 1) who were Directors prior to any person becoming an Interested Shareholder during the previous 3 years or were recommended for election or elected to succeed such Directors by a majority of such Directors.

 

145.3                  The proposed transactions referred to in Article 145.2(c) are limited to:

 

(a)                                  a merger or consolidation of the Company (except for a merger in respect of which, pursuant to Section 251(f) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, U.S., no vote of the shareholders would be required if the Company were incorporated under the law of such State);

 

(b)                                  a sale, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, transfer or other disposition (in one transaction or a series of transactions) of assets of the Company or of any direct or indirect majority-owned subsidiary of the Company (other than to any direct or indirect wholly-owned subsidiary or to the Company) having an aggregate market value equal to 50 per cent. or more of either that aggregate market value of all of the assets of the Company determined on a consolidated basis or the aggregate market value of all the outstanding shares of the Company; or

 

(c)                                   a proposed tender or exchange offer for 50 per cent. or more of the outstanding Voting Shares of the Company.

 

145.4                  The Company shall give not less than 20 clear days’ notice to all Interested Shareholders prior to the consummation of any of the transactions described in Article 145.1 and Article 145.2.

 

145.5                  As used in Article 145, the term:

 

affiliate ” means a person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, controls, or is controlled by, or is under common control with, another person.

 

66



 

associate ” when used to indicate a relationship with any person means:

 

(a)                                  any corporation, partnership, unincorporated association or other entity of which such person is a director, officer or partner or which is, directly or indirectly, the owner of 20 per cent. or more of any class of Voting Shares;

 

(b)                                  any trust or other estate in which such person has at least a 20 per cent. beneficial interest or as to which such person serves as trustee or in a similar fiduciary capacity; and

 

(c)                                   any relative or spouse of such person, or any relative of such spouse, who has the same residence as such person.

 

Business Combination ”, when used in reference to the Company and any Interested Shareholder of the Company, means:

 

(a)                                  any merger or consolidation of the Company or any direct or indirect majority-owned subsidiary of the Company with (i) the Interested Shareholder, or (ii) with any other corporation, partnership, unincorporated association or other entity if the merger or consolidation is caused by the Interested Shareholder and as a result of such merger or consolidation Article 145 is not applicable to the surviving entity;

 

(b)                                  any sale, lease, exchange, mortgage, pledge, transfer or other disposition (in one transaction or series of transactions), except proportionately as a shareholder of the Company, to or with the Interested Shareholder, of assets of the Company or of any direct or indirect majority-owned subsidiary of the Company which assets have an aggregate market value equal to 10 per cent. or more of either the aggregate market value of all the assets of the Company determined on a consolidated basis or the aggregate market value of all the Voting Shares of the Company;

 

(c)                                   any transaction which results in the issuance or transfer by the Company or by any direct or indirect majority-owned subsidiary of the Company of any shares of the Company or of such subsidiary to the Interested Shareholder, except (i) pursuant to the exercise, exchange or conversion of securities exercisable for, exchangeable for or convertible into shares of the Company or any such subsidiary which securities were outstanding prior to the time that the Interested Shareholder became such, (ii) pursuant to a merger which could be accomplished under Section 251(g) of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, U.S. if the Company were incorporated under the laws of such State, (iii) pursuant to a dividend or distribution paid or made, or the exercise, exchange or conversion of securities exercisable for, exchangeable for or convertible into shares of such Company or any such subsidiary which security is distributed, pro rata to all holders of a class or series of shares of such Company subsequent to the time the Interested Shares became such, (iv) pursuant to an exchange offer by the Company to purchase shares made on the same terms to all holders of said shares, or (v) any issuance or transfer of shares by the Company, provided however, that in no case under (iii)-(v) above shall there be an increase in the Interested Shareholder’s proportionate share of the shares of any class or series of the Company or of the voting shares of the Company;

 

(d)                                  any transaction involving the Company or any direct or indirect majority owned subsidiary of the Company which has the effect, directly or indirectly, of increasing the proportionate share of the shares of any class or securities convertible into the shares of any class of the Company or of any such subsidiary which is owned by the Interested Shareholder, except as a result of immaterial changes due to fractional share adjustments or as a result of any purchase or redemption of any shares not caused, directly or indirectly, by the Interested Shareholder; or

 

(e)                                   any receipt by the Interested Shareholder of the benefit, directly or indirectly (except proportionately as a shareholder of the Company) of any loans, advance, guarantees, pledges or

 

67



 

other financial benefits (other than those expressly permitted in subparagraphs (a)-(d) above) provided by or through the Company or any direct or indirect majority owned subsidiary.

 

control ,” including the term “ controlling ”, “ controlled by ” and “ under common control with ” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and polices of a person whether through the ownership of Voting Shares, by contract or otherwise. A person who is the owner of 20 per cent. or more of the outstanding Voting Shares of any corporation, partnership, unincorporated association or other entity shall be presumed to have control of such entity in the absence of proof by a preponderance of the evidence to the contrary. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a presumption of control shall not apply where such person holds Voting Shares, in good faith and not for the purpose of circumventing this Article, as an agent, bank, broker, nominee, custodian or trustee for one or more owners who do not individually or as a group have control of such entity.

 

Interested Shareholder ” means any person (other than the Company and any direct or indirect majority-owned subsidiary of the Company) that:

 

(a)                                  is the owner of 15 per cent. or more of the issued Voting Shares of the Company, or

 

(b)                                  is an affiliate or associate of the Company and was the owner of 15 per cent. or more of the outstanding Voting Shares of the Company at any time within the 3 year period immediately prior to the date on which it is sought to be determined whether such person is an Interested Shareholder; and the affiliates and associates of such person; provided, however, that the term “Interested Shareholder” shall not include any person whose ownership of shares in excess of the 15 per cent. limitation set forth herein is the result of action taken solely by the Company provided that such person shall be an Interested Shareholder if thereafter such person acquires additional Voting Shares of the Company, except as a result of further corporate action not caused, directly or indirectly, by such person. For the purpose of determining whether a person is an Interested Shareholder, the Voting Shares of the Company deemed to be outstanding shall include shares deemed to be owned by the person through application of these Articles but shall not include any other unissued shares of the Company which may be issuable pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding, or upon exercise of conversion rights, warrants or options, or otherwise.

 

owner ” including the terms “own” and “owned” when used with respect to any shares means a person that individually or with or through any of its affiliates or associates:

 

(a)                                  beneficially owns such shares directly or indirectly; or

 

(b)                                  has (i) the right to acquire such shares (whether such right is exercisable immediately or only after the passage of time) pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding or upon the exercise of conversion rights, exchange rights, warrants or options, or otherwise; provided, however, that a person shall not be deemed the owner of shares tendered pursuant to a tender or exchange offer made by such person or any of such person’s affiliates or associates until such tendered stock is accepted for purchase or exchange; or (ii) the right to vote such shares pursuant to any agreement, arrangement or understanding; provided, however, that a person shall not be deemed the owner of any shares because of such person’s right to vote such shares if the agreement, arrangement or understanding to vote such shares arises solely from a revocable proxy or consent given in response to a proxy or consent solicitation made to 10 or more persons; or

 

(c)                                   has any agreement, arrangement or understanding for the purpose of acquiring, holding, voting (except voting pursuant to a revocable proxy or consent send by or on behalf of the Company or the board) disposing of such shares with any other person that beneficially owns, or whose affiliates or associates beneficially own, directly or indirectly, such shares.

 

68



 

145.6                  In addition to any approval of shareholders required pursuant to the terms of any class of shares other than the Ordinary Shares, the approval of the holders of a majority of the issued shares generally entitled to vote at a meeting called for such purpose, following approval by the Board of Directors, shall be required in order for the Company to “sell, lease, or exchange all or substantially all of its property and assets” (as that phrase is interpreted for the purposes of Section 271 of the General Corporation Law of the State of Delaware, U.S., as amended or re-enacted from time to time), provided that the foregoing approval by shareholders shall not be required in the case of any transaction between the Company and any entity the Company “directly or indirectly controls” (as that phrase is defined in Rule 405 under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended or re-enacted from time to time).

 

*               *               *

 

69




Exhibit 4.3

 


 

VENATOR FINANCE S.À R.L.

 

VENATOR MATERIALS LLC

 

AND EACH OF THE GUARANTORS PARTY HERETO

 

5.75% SENIOR NOTES DUE 2025

 


 

FORM OF INDENTURE

 

Dated as of           , 2017

 


 

Wilmington Trust, National Association,

 

as Trustee

 


 



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

ARTICLE 1

DEFINITIONS AND INCORPORATION

BY REFERENCE

 

Section 1.01

Definitions

1

Section 1.02

Other Definitions

14

Section 1.03

[Reserved]

14

Section 1.04

Rules of Construction

14

 

 

 

ARTICLE 2

THE NOTES

 

 

 

Section 2.01

Form and Dating

15

Section 2.02

Execution and Authentication

16

Section 2.03

Registrar and Paying Agent

16

Section 2.04

Paying Agent to Hold Money in Trust

16

Section 2.05

Holder Lists

17

Section 2.06

Transfer and Exchange

17

Section 2.07

Replacement Notes

28

Section 2.08

Outstanding Notes

28

Section 2.09

Treasury Notes

29

Section 2.10

Temporary Notes

29

Section 2.11

Cancellation

29

Section 2.12

Defaulted Interest

29

Section 2.13

CUSIP and ISIN Numbers

30

Section 2.14

Additional Amounts

30

 

 

 

ARTICLE 3

REDEMPTION AND PREPAYMENT

 

 

 

Section 3.01

Notices to Trustee

33

Section 3.02

Selection of Notes to Be Redeemed or Purchased

33

Section 3.03

Notice of Redemption

33

Section 3.04

Effect of Notice of Redemption

35

Section 3.05

Deposit of Redemption or Purchase Price

35

Section 3.06

Notes Redeemed or Purchased in Part

35

Section 3.07

Optional Redemption

35

Section 3.08

Optional Redemption for Changes in Withholding Taxes

36

Section 3.09

Special Mandatory Redemption

37

Section 3.10

Mandatory Redemption

37

 

 

 

ARTICLE 4

COVENANTS

 

 

 

Section 4.01

Payment of Notes

37

Section 4.02

Maintenance of Office or Agency

38

Section 4.03

Reports

38

Section 4.04

Compliance Certificate

39

Section 4.05

Stay, Extension and Usury Laws

40

Section 4.06

Limitation on Secured Debt

40

Section 4.07

Limitation on Subsidiary Debt

41

 



 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

Section 4.08

Limitation on Sale and Lease-back Transactions

43

Section 4.09

Corporate Existence

43

Section 4.10

Offer to Repurchase Upon Change of Control Repurchase Event

44

Section 4.11

Activities Prior to the Completion Date

46

 

 

 

ARTICLE 5

SUCCESSORS

 

 

 

Section 5.01

Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets

46

Section 5.02

Successor Corporation Substituted

47

 

 

 

ARTICLE 6

DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES

 

 

 

Section 6.01

Events of Default

47

Section 6.02

Acceleration

49

Section 6.03

Other Remedies

49

Section 6.04

Waiver of Past Defaults

50

Section 6.05

Control by Majority

50

Section 6.06

Limitation on Suits

50

Section 6.07

Rights of Holders of Notes to Receive Payment

51

Section 6.08

Collection Suit by Trustee

51

Section 6.09

Trustee May File Proofs of Claim

51

Section 6.10

Priorities

51

Section 6.11

Undertaking for Costs

52

 

 

 

ARTICLE 7

TRUSTEE

 

 

 

Section 7.01

Duties of Trustee

52

Section 7.02

Rights of Trustee

53

Section 7.03

Individual Rights of Trustee

54

Section 7.04

Trustee’s Disclaimer

54

Section 7.05

Notice of Defaults

55

Section 7.06

[Reserved]

55

Section 7.07

Compensation and Indemnity

55

Section 7.08

Replacement of Trustee

56

Section 7.09

Successor Trustee by Merger, etc.

56

Section 7.10

Eligibility; Disqualification

57

 

 

 

ARTICLE 8

LEGAL DEFEASANCE AND COVENANT DEFEASANCE

 

 

 

Section 8.01

Option to Effect Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance

57

Section 8.02

Legal Defeasance and Discharge

57

Section 8.03

Covenant Defeasance

57

Section 8.04

Conditions to Legal or Covenant Defeasance

58

Section 8.05

Cash or Non-Callable U.S. Government Obligations to be Held in Trust; Other Miscellaneous Provisions

59

Section 8.06

Repayment to Issuers

60

Section 8.07

Reinstatement

60

 

 

 

ARTICLE 9

AMENDMENT, SUPPLEMENT AND WAIVER

 

 

 

Section 9.01

Without Consent of Holders of Notes

60

 

ii



 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

Section 9.02

With Consent of Holders of Notes

61

Section 9.03

[Reserved]

62

Section 9.04

Revocation and Effect of Consents

62

Section 9.05

Notation on or Exchange of Notes

62

Section 9.06

Trustee to Sign Amendments, etc.

63

 

 

 

ARTICLE 10

NOTE GUARANTEES

 

 

 

Section 10.01

Guarantee

63

Section 10.02

Limitation on Guarantor Liability

64

Section 10.03

Execution and Delivery of Note Guarantee

68

Section 10.04

Guarantors May Consolidate, etc., on Certain Terms

69

Section 10.05

Releases

69

 

 

 

ARTICLE 11

SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE

 

 

 

Section 11.01

Satisfaction and Discharge

70

Section 11.02

Application of Trust Money

71

 

 

 

ARTICLE 12

MISCELLANEOUS

 

 

 

Section 12.01

[Reserved]

71

Section 12.02

Notices

71

Section 12.03

[Reserved]

72

Section 12.04

Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent

72

Section 12.05

Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion

73

Section 12.06

Rules by Trustee and Agents

73

Section 12.07

No Personal Liability of Directors, Managers, Officers, Employees, Incorporators, Stockholders or Members

73

Section 12.08

Governing Law; Waiver of Jury Trial

73

Section 12.09

No Adverse Interpretation of Other Agreements

73

Section 12.10

Successors

74

Section 12.11

Severability

74

Section 12.12

Counterpart Originals

74

Section 12.13

[Reserved]

74

Section 12.14

Table of Contents, Headings, etc.

74

Section 12.15

U.S.A. Patriot Act

74

Section 12.16

Force Majeure

74

Section 12.17

Jurisdiction; Consent to Service of Process

75

 

SCHEDULES

 

Schedule 1                                      GUARANTORS AS OF THE COMPLETION DATE

 

EXHIBITS

 

Exhibit A                                              FORM OF NOTE

Exhibit B                                              FORM OF CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER

Exhibit C                                              FORM OF CERTIFICATE OF EXCHANGE

Exhibit D                                              FORM OF SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE

 

iii


 

INDENTURE dated as of            , 2017 among Venator Finance S.à r.l., a private limited liability company ( société à responsabilité limitée ) incorporated under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (“ Luxembourg ”), having its registered office at 180, route de Longwy, L-1940 Luxembourg and registered with the Luxembourg Register of Commerce and Companies (R.C.S. Luxembourg ) under number B215641 (“ Venator Finance ”), and Venator Materials LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Venator Co-Issuer ”), and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee.

 

The Issuers and the Trustee agree as follows for the benefit of each other and for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders (as defined) of the 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “ Notes ”):

 

ARTICLE 1
DEFINITIONS AND INCORPORATION
BY REFERENCE

 

Section 1.01                                                                              Definitions.

 

144A Global Note ” means a Global Note substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto bearing the Global Note Legend and the Private Placement Legend and deposited with or on behalf of, and registered in the name of, the Depositary or its nominee that will be issued in a denomination equal to the outstanding principal amount of the Notes sold in reliance on Rule 144A.

 

ABL Credit Facility ” means the ABL facility under the credit agreement to be entered into in connection with the Proposed IPO, among Venator Materials LLC, as borrower, the other borrowers party thereto, Venator, as guarantor, and the other guarantors parties thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders parties thereto from time to time.

 

Additional Notes ” means additional Notes (other than the Initial Notes) issued under this Indenture in accordance with Section 2.02 hereof, as part of the same series as the Initial Notes.

 

Adjusted Treasury Rate ” means, with respect to any redemption date, the rate per annum equal to the semiannual equivalent yield to maturity of the Comparable Treasury Issue, plus 0.50%.

 

affiliate ” means, with respect to any specified Person, any other Person who directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries controls, or is controlled by, or is under common control with, such specified Person. The term “control” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise; and the terms “controlling” and “controlled” have meanings correlative of the foregoing.

 

Agent ” means any Registrar, co-registrar, Paying Agent or additional paying agent.

 

Applicable Premium ” means, with respect to any Note on any date fixed for a redemption, as determined by Venator, the greater of:

 

(1)                                  1.00% of the then outstanding principal amount of the Note; or

 

(2)                                  the excess of: (a) the present value at such redemption date of (i) the redemption price of the Note at July 15, 2020 (such redemption price being set forth in Section 3.07(d) hereof), plus (ii) all required interest payments due on the Note through July 15, 2020 (excluding accrued but unpaid interest to the redemption date, if any), computed using a

 

1



 

discount rate equal to the Adjusted Treasury Rate as of such redemption date; over (b) the outstanding principal amount of the Note;

 

in each case, as calculated by the Issuers or on behalf of the Issuers by such Person as the Issuers shall designate.

 

Applicable Procedures ” means, with respect to any transfer or exchange of or for beneficial interests in any Global Note, the rules and procedures of the Depositary, Euroclear and Clearstream that apply to such transfer or exchange.

 

Attributable Debt ” means, in the context of a Sale and Lease-Back Transaction, the amount that Venator determines in good faith to be the present value, discounted at the interest rate implicit in the lease involved in such Sale and Lease-Back Transaction, of the lessee’s obligation under the lease for rental payments during the remaining term of such lease, as it may be extended. For purposes of this definition, any amounts lessee must pay, whether or not designated as rent or additional rent, on account of maintenance and repairs, insurance, taxes, assessments, water rates or similar charges or any amounts lessee must pay under the lease contingent upon the amount of sales, maintenance and repairs, insurance, taxes, assessments, water rates or similar charges are not included in the determination of lessee’s obligations under the lease.

 

Bank Product Obligations ” means obligations under any agreement or other arrangement governing the provision of treasury or cash management services, including deposit accounts, overdraft, credit or debit card, funds transfer, automated clearinghouse, zero balance accounts, returned check concentration, controlled disbursement, lockbox, account reconciliation and reporting and trade finance services and other cash management services.

 

Bankruptcy Law ” means Title 11, U.S. Code or any similar federal or state law for the relief of debtors.

 

beneficial owner ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Rule 13d-3 and Rule 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, except that in calculating the beneficial ownership of any particular “person” (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), such “person” will be deemed to have beneficial ownership of all securities that such “person” has the right to acquire by conversion or exercise of other securities, whether such right is currently exercisable or is exercisable only after the passage of time. The terms “beneficially owns,” “beneficially owned” and “beneficial ownership” have corresponding meanings.

 

Board of Directors ” means, with respect to any Person, the board of directors or board of managers or managing members, as the case may be, or any committee thereof duly authorized to act on behalf of such board, or the board or committee of such Person serving a similar function.

 

Business Day ” means any day other than a Legal Holiday.

 

Capitalized Lease Obligation ” means, as to any Person, the obligations of such Person under a lease that are required to be classified and accounted for as capital lease obligations under GAAP and, for purposes of this definition, the amount of such obligations at any date shall be the capitalized amount of such obligations at such date, determined in accordance with GAAP.

 

Capital Stock ” means:

 

(1)          in the case of a corporation, corporate stock;

 

2



 

(2)          in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other equivalents (however designated) of corporate stock;

 

(3)          in the case of a partnership or limited liability company, partnership or membership interests (whether general or limited); and

 

(4)          any other interest or participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of, or distribution of assets of, the issuing Person,

 

but excluding any debt securities convertible or exchangeable into such equity.

 

Change of Control ” means the occurrence of any of the following:

 

(1)          the sale, lease or transfer, in one or a series of related transactions, of all or substantially all of the assets of Venator and its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, to any Person;

 

(2)          any person or “group” (within the meaning of Rule 13d-3 or Rule 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, but excluding any employee benefit plan and any person or entity acting in its capacity as trustee, agent or other fiduciary or administrator of any such plan), other than one or more Permitted Holders, acquires beneficial ownership of more than 50% of the voting power of the Voting Stock (measured by reference to voting power) of Venator (determined on a fully diluted basis); or

 

(3)          Venator ceases to own, directly or indirectly, 100% of the outstanding Capital Stock of the Issuers.

 

None of (i) the Proposed IPO or (ii) the consummation of the Huntsman-Clariant Merger shall constitute a “Change of Control” for purposes of this definition. In addition, for the avoidance of doubt, transactions among Venator and its Subsidiaries (other than transactions under clause (3) above) shall not constitute a “Change of Control” for purposes of this definition.

 

Change of Control Repurchase Event ” means the occurrence of both a Change of Control and a Ratings Event.

 

Clearstream ” means Clearstream Banking, S.A.

 

Commodity Agreement ” means any commodity futures contract, commodity option or other similar agreement or arrangement entered into by Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries designed to protect Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries against fluctuations in the price of commodities actually at that time used in the ordinary course of business of Venator or its Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

Comparable Treasury Issue ” means the United States Treasury Security with a constant maturity (as compiled and published in the most recent Federal Reserve Statistical Release H.15(519) that has become available at least two business days prior to the redemption date (or, if such Statistical Release is no longer published, any publicly available source of comparable market data)) most nearly equal to the period from the redemption date to July 15, 2020; provided that, if such period is less than one year, the United States Treasury Security with a constant maturity of one year will be used.

 

Completion Date ” means the date on which the conditions for the Release have been satisfied.

 

3



 

Consolidated EBITDA ” shall have the meaning given to such term under the credit agreement governing the Senior Credit Facility, as in effect on the Completion Date.

 

Consolidated Net Tangible Assets ” means, with respect to any Person, as of any date, the Total Assets of such Person and its Subsidiaries less goodwill and intangibles (other than intangibles arising from, or relating to, intellectual property, licenses or permits (including, but not limited to, emissions rights) of such Person), in each case calculated in accordance with GAAP based upon the most recent internal financial statements available as of such date; provided that in the event that such Person or any of its Subsidiaries assumes or acquires any assets in connection with the transaction for which Consolidated Net Tangible Assets is being calculated, then Consolidated Net Tangible Assets will be calculated giving pro forma effect to such assumption or acquisition of assets, as if the same had occurred at the beginning of the applicable period.

 

Consolidated Total Net Debt ” shall have the meaning given to such term under the credit agreement governing the Senior Credit Facility, as in effect on the Completion Date.

 

continuing ” means, with respect to any Default or Event of Default, that such Default or Event of Default has not been cured or waived.

 

Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee ” means the address of the Trustee specified in Section 12.02 hereof or such other address as to which the Trustee may give notice to the Issuers.

 

Currency Agreement ” means any foreign exchange contract, currency swap agreement or other similar agreement or arrangement designed to protect Venator or any Restricted Subsidiary of Venator against fluctuations in currency values.

 

Custodian ” means any receiver, trustee, assignee, liquidator, custodian or similar official under any Bankruptcy Law.

 

Default ” means an event or condition the occurrence of which is, or with the lapse of time or the giving of notice or both would be, an Event of Default.

 

Definitive Note ” means a certificated Note registered in the name of the Holder thereof and issued in accordance with Section 2.06 hereof, substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto except that such Note shall not bear the Global Note Legend and shall not have the “Schedule of Exchanges of Interests in the Global Note” attached thereto.

 

Depositary ” means, with respect to the Notes issuable or issued in whole or in part in global form, the Person specified in Section 2.03 hereof as the Depositary with respect to the Notes, and any and all successors thereto appointed as depositary hereunder and having become such pursuant to the applicable provision of this Indenture.

 

Equity Offering ” means any sale of Capital Stock of Venator or any capital contribution to the equity of Venator from any Person other than a Subsidiary of Venator.

 

Escrow Account ” means the segregated escrow account into which the gross proceeds of the offering of the Initial Notes have been deposited pending consummation of the Proposed IPO and satisfaction of certain other conditions set forth in the Escrow Agreement.

 

Escrow Agent ” means Wilmington Trust, National Association, as escrow agent under the Escrow Agreement.

 

4



 

Escrow Agreement ” means the escrow agreement, dated as of the Issue Date, among the Issuers, the Trustee and the Escrow Agent.

 

Escrow Outside Date ” means March 31, 2018.

 

Escrowed Property ” means the initial funds deposited into the Escrow Account, and all other funds, securities, interest, dividends, distributions and other property and payments credited to the Escrow Account (less any property and/or funds paid in accordance with the Escrow Agreement).

 

Euroclear ” means Euroclear Bank, S.A./N.V., as operator of the Euroclear system.

 

Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any successor statute or statutes thereto.

 

GAAP ” means generally accepted accounting principles set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such other entity as may be approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession of the United States, which were in effect as of the Issue Date.

 

Global Note Legend ” means the legend set forth in Section 2.06(g)(2) hereof, which is required to be placed on all Global Notes issued under this Indenture.

 

Global Notes ” means, individually and collectively, each of the Restricted Global Notes and the Unrestricted Global Notes deposited with or on behalf of and registered in the name of the Depositary or its nominee, substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto and that bears the Global Note Legend and that has the “Schedule of Exchanges of Interests in the Global Note” attached thereto, issued in accordance with Section 2.01, 2.06(b)(3), 2.06(b)(4), 2.06(d)(1) or 2.06(d)(2) hereof.

 

Government Securities ” means direct obligations of, or obligations guaranteed by, the United States of America, and the payment for which the United States pledges its full faith and credit.

 

Guarantee ” means a guarantee other than by endorsement of negotiable instruments for collection in the ordinary course of business, direct or indirect, in any manner including, without limitation, by way of a pledge of assets or through letters of credit or reimbursement agreements in respect thereof, of all or any part of any indebtedness (whether arising by virtue of partnership arrangements, or by agreements to keep-well, to purchase assets, goods, securities or services, to take or pay or to maintain financial statement conditions or otherwise).

 

Guarantors ” means (1) Venator, who will guarantee the Notes on the Completion Date, (2) each of Venator’s Subsidiaries that is a borrower or provides a guarantee under the ABL Credit Facility or the Senior Credit Facility, which as of the date hereof are identified as those Subsidiaries set forth on Schedule 1 to this Indenture, who will guarantee the Notes on the Completion Date and (3) any other Subsidiary of Venator that executes a Supplemental Indenture in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture, and their respective successors and assigns, in each case, until the Note Guarantee of such Person has been released in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture.

 

Holder ” means a Person in whose name a Note is registered.

 

Huntsman-Clariant Merger ” means the merger of Huntsman Corporation with a wholly-owned subsidiary of Clariant Ltd.

 

5



 

incur ” means to issue, assume, guarantee, incur or otherwise become liable for.

 

Indenture ” means this Indenture, as amended or supplemented from time to time.

 

Indirect Participant ” means a Person who holds a beneficial interest in a Global Note through a Participant.

 

Initial Notes ” means the first $375.0 million in aggregate principal amount of Notes issued under this Indenture on the date hereof.

 

Initial Purchasers ” means Citigroup Global Markets Inc., J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Barclays Capital Inc., HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., PNC Capital Markets LLC, RBC Capital Markets, LLC, Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC, SunTrust Robinson Humphrey, Inc. and Commerz Markets LLC .

 

Interest Swap Obligations ” means the obligations of any Person pursuant to any arrangement with any other Person, whereby, directly or indirectly, such Person is entitled to receive from time to time periodic payments calculated by applying either a floating or a fixed rate of interest on a stated notional amount in exchange for payments made by such other Person calculated by applying a fixed or a floating rate of interest on the same notional amount and shall include, without limitation, interest rate swaps, caps, floors, collars and similar agreements.

 

Investment Grade Rating ” means a rating equal to or higher than Baa3 (or the equivalent) by Moody’s and BBB- (or the equivalent) by S&P, or an equivalent rating by any other Rating Agency.

 

Issue Date ” means the date on which Notes are first issued under this Indenture.

 

Issuer ” means Venator Finance or Venator Co-Issuer or any successor obligor to the obligations of Venator Finance or Venator Co-Issuer under this Indenture and the Notes pursuant to Article 5 hereof, as the case may be, and “ Issuers ” means the collective reference to both such entities and any such successors.

 

Legal Holiday ” means a Saturday, a Sunday or a day on which banking institutions in the City of New York or the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg or at a place of payment are authorized by law, regulation or executive order to remain closed. If a payment date is a Legal Holiday at a place of payment, payment may be made at that place on the next succeeding day that is not a Legal Holiday, and no interest shall accrue on such payment for the intervening period.

 

Lien ” shall have the meaning given to such term under the credit agreement governing the Senior Credit Facility, as in effect on the Completion Date.

 

Moody’s ” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. and its successors.

 

Mortgage ” means a mortgage, security interest, pledge or lien.

 

Non-U.S. Person ” means a Person who is not a U.S. Person.

 

Notes Custodian ” means the Trustee, as custodian with respect to the Notes in global form, or any successor entity thereto.

 

6



 

Note Guarantee ” means the Guarantee by each Guarantor of the Issuers’ obligations under this Indenture and the Notes, executed pursuant to the provisions of this Indenture.

 

Notes ” has the meaning assigned to it in the preamble to this Indenture. The Initial Notes and the Additional Notes shall be treated as a single class for all purposes under this Indenture, and unless the context otherwise requires, all references to the Notes shall include the Initial Notes and any Additional Notes; provided, however, that Additional Notes that are not fungible with the Initial Notes for U.S. federal income tax purposes shall have a separate CUSIP, ISIN or other securities identification number from the Initial Notes.

 

Offering Memorandum ” means the offering memorandum dated as of June 29, 2017 related to the issuance of the Notes.

 

Officer ” means, with respect to any Person, the Chairman of the Board of Directors, the Chief Executive Officer, the President, the Chief Operating Officer, the Chief Financial Officer, the Treasurer, any Assistant Treasurer, the Controller, any Director, the Secretary or any Vice-President of such Person (or with respect to Venator Finance, an authorized signatory).

 

Officers’ Certificate ” means a certificate signed on behalf of each Issuer by two Officers (or with respect to Venator Finance, two authorized signatories) of each Issuer or Venator, one of whom must be the principal executive officer, the principal financial officer, the treasurer or the principal accounting officer of such Issuers or Venator, that meets the requirements of Section 12.05 hereof or with respect to Venator Finance, an authorized signatory).

 

Opinion of Counsel ” means an opinion from legal counsel that meets the requirements of Section 12.05 hereof. The counsel may be an employee of or counsel to Venator, an Issuer or any Subsidiary of Venator.

 

Participant ” means, with respect to the Depositary, Euroclear or Clearstream, a Person who has an account with the Depositary, Euroclear or Clearstream, respectively (and, with respect to DTC, shall include Euroclear and Clearstream).

 

Permitted Holders ” means each of (a) managers and members of management of Venator (or any parent entity or Public Company specified in clause (c) of this definition which is a direct or indirect parent of Venator) or its Subsidiaries that have ownership interests in Venator (or such parent entity or Public Company specified in clause (c) of this definition which is a direct or indirect parent of Venator), (b) any group (within the meaning of Rules 13d-3 and 13d-5 under the Exchange Act) of which the Persons described in clause (a) of this definition are members; provided that, without giving effect to the existence of such group or any other group, the Persons described in clause (a), collectively, beneficially own Voting Stock representing 50% or more of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of Venator (or such parent entity specified in clause (c)(i) of this definition) then held by such group, and (c)(i) any direct or indirect parent of Venator so long as a Permitted Holder pursuant to clauses (a) or (b) of this definition holds 50% or more of the Voting Stock of such direct or indirect parent of Venator and (ii) any Public Company (or wholly owned Subsidiary of such Public Company) to the extent and until such time as any Person or group (other than a Permitted Holder under clause (a) or (b) of this definition) is deemed to be or become a beneficial owner of Voting Stock of such Public Company representing more than 50% of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of such Public Company.

 

Any Person or group, together with its affiliates, whose acquisition of beneficial ownership constitutes a Change of Control in respect of which a Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer is made

 

7



 

in accordance with the requirements of this Indenture will thereafter, together with its affiliates, constitute an additional Permitted Holder.

 

Permitted Liens ” means each of the following:

 

(1)                      Mortgages in favor of Venator or any of the guarantors;

 

(2)                      Mortgages to secure the performance of statutory obligations, insurance, surety or appeal bonds, workers compensation obligations, performance bonds or other obligations of a like nature incurred in the ordinary course of business (including Mortgages to secure letters of credit issued to assure payment of such obligations);

 

(3)                      Mortgages representing any interest or title of a lessor under any Capitalized Lease Obligations; provided that such Mortgages do not extend to any property or assets which is not leased property subject to such Capitalized Lease Obligations;

 

(4)                      liens for taxes, assessments or governmental charges or claims that are not yet delinquent or that are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings promptly instituted and diligently concluded; provided that any reserve or other appropriate provision as is required in conformity with GAAP has been made therefor;

 

(5)                      Mortgages on insurance policies and proceeds thereof, or other deposits, to secure insurance premium financings;

 

(6)                      filing of Uniform Commercial Code financing statements as a precautionary measure in connection with operating leases;

 

(7)                      bankers’ liens, rights of setoff, liens arising out of judgments or awards not constituting an Event of Default and notices of lis pendens and associated rights related to litigation being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which adequate reserves have been made;

 

(8)                      Mortgages on cash, cash equivalents or other property arising in connection with the defeasance, discharge or redemption of indebtedness;

 

(9)                      Mortgages on specific items of inventory or other goods (and the proceeds thereof) of any Person securing such Person’s obligations in respect of bankers’ acceptances issued or created in the ordinary course of business for the account of such Person to facilitate the purchase, shipment or storage of such inventory or other goods;

 

(10)               Mortgages securing reimbursement obligations with respect to commercial letters of credit which encumber documents and other property relating to such letters of credit and products and proceeds thereof;

 

(11)               leases or subleases granted to others not interfering in any material respect with the business of Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries and any interest or title of a lessor under any lease permitted by this Indenture;

 

(12)               Mortgages securing Bank Product Obligations, Interest Swap Obligations, Commodity Agreements and Currency Agreements;

 

8



 

(13)               Mortgages existing on, or contractually obligated to be granted within a period of time following, the Completion Date (other than mortgages securing indebtedness under the ABL Credit Facility or the Senior Credit Facility); and

 

(14)               Mortgages on the Escrow Account for the benefit of the Holders of the notes, the Escrow Agent or the Trustee.

 

Person ” means an individual, partnership, corporation, unincorporated organization, trust or joint venture, or a governmental agency or political subdivision thereof.

 

Principal Property ” means, as of any date, any property, plant and equipment comprising a manufacturing facility owned by Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; provided that Venator may exclude (and subsequently include in whole or in part, at its option) from “Principal Property” any such facilities with an aggregate fair market value not in excess of 5.0% of the Consolidated Net Tangible Assets of Venator, determined as of the date of such exclusion.

 

Private Placement Legend ” means the legend set forth in Section 2.06(g)(1) hereof to be placed on all Notes issued under this Indenture except where otherwise permitted by the provisions of this Indenture.

 

Pro Forma Basis ” shall have the meaning given to such term under the credit agreement governing the Senior Credit Facility, as in effect on the Completion Date.

 

Proposed IPO ” means the offering of common stock of Venator substantially as set forth in its registration statement on Form S-1 as filed with the SEC on June 13, 2017.

 

Public Company ” means any Person with a class or series of Voting Stock that is traded on a stock exchange or in the over-the-counter market.

 

QIB ” means a “qualified institutional buyer” as defined in Rule 144A.

 

Qualified Securitization Transaction ” means any transaction or series of transactions that may be entered into by Venator or any of its Subsidiaries pursuant to which Venator or any of its Subsidiaries may sell, convey or otherwise transfer pursuant to terms necessary or customary in the relevant jurisdiction, directly or indirectly, to

 

(1)          a Securitization Entity or to Venator which subsequently transfers to a Securitization Entity (in the case of a transfer by Venator or any of its Subsidiaries) and

 

(2)          any other Person (in the case of transfer by a Securitization Entity),

 

or may grant a security interest, in any accounts receivable or any participations or other interests therein (whether now existing or arising or acquired in the future) of Venator or any of its Subsidiaries or other entities formed as necessary or customary under the laws of the relevant jurisdiction, and any assets related thereto including, without limitation, all collateral securing such accounts receivable, all contracts and contract rights and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such accounts receivable, proceeds of such accounts receivable and other assets (including contract rights) which are necessarily or customarily transferred in the relevant jurisdiction or in respect of which security interests are necessarily or customarily granted in the relevant jurisdiction in connection with asset securitization transactions involving accounts receivable.

 

9



 

Rating Agency ” means each of (i) S&P and Moody’s or (ii) if either S&P or Moody’s or both of them are not making ratings of the Notes publicly available, a nationally recognized U.S. rating agency or agencies, as the case may be, selected by Venator, which will be substituted for S&P or Moody’s or both, as the case may be.

 

Ratings Event ” means (1) to the extent the Notes were rated with an Investment Grade Rating by either of the Rating Agencies at the commencement of the Relevant Period (as defined below), and the ratings of such Notes are downgraded by one or both of the Rating Agencies on any date from the date of the public notice of an arrangement that could result in a Change of Control until the end of the 60-day period following public notice of the occurrence of the Change of Control (the “Relevant Period”) such that the rating of the Notes by both of the Rating Agencies at the end of the Relevant Period is below an Investment Grade Rating, which downgrading is a result of the transactions constituting or occurring simultaneously with the applicable Change of Control (as evidenced by a public statement by the Rating Agency or Rating Agencies that downgraded the Notes) or (2) to the extent the Notes were not rated with an Investment Grade Rating by either of the Rating Agencies at the commencement of the Relevant Period, the Notes continue to be rated at a level below an Investment Grade Rating by both of the Rating Agencies at the end of the Relevant Period.

 

Regulation S ” means Regulation S promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

Regulation S Global Note ” means a Global Note substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto bearing the Global Note Legend and the Private Placement Legend and deposited with or on behalf of and registered in the name of the Depositary or its nominee, issued in a denomination equal to the outstanding principal amount of the Notes sold in reliance on Rule 903 of Regulation S.

 

Release ” means the release by the Escrow Agent of the Escrowed Property to the Issuers.

 

Reorganization ” means the internal reorganization and separation transactions undertaken in connection with the Proposed IPO.

 

Required Financial Statements ” shall have the meaning given to such term under the credit agreement governing the Senior Credit Facility, as in effect on the Completion Date.

 

Responsible Officer ,” when used with respect to the Trustee, means any officer within the Corporate Trust Administration of the Trustee (or any successor group of the Trustee) or any other officer of the Trustee customarily performing functions similar to those performed by any of the above designated officers and also means, with respect to a particular corporate trust matter, any other officer to whom such matter is referred because of his or her knowledge of and familiarity with the particular subject, and in each case, who shall have direct responsibility for the administration of this Indenture.

 

Restricted Definitive Note ” means a Definitive Note bearing the Private Placement Legend.

 

Restricted Global Note ” means a Global Note bearing the Private Placement Legend.

 

Restricted Subsidiary ” of any Person means any Subsidiary of such Person that owns one or more Principal Properties and that, at the time of determination, is not an Unrestricted Subsidiary. Unless otherwise indicated in this Indenture, all references to Restricted Subsidiaries shall mean Restricted Subsidiaries of Venator (including the Issuers).

 

Rule 144 ” means Rule 144 promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

10


 

Rule 144A ” means Rule 144A promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

Rule 903 ” means Rule 903 promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

Rule 904 ” means Rule 904 promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

S&P ” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services, a division of the McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. and its successors.

 

Sale and Lease-Back Transaction ” means the leasing by Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of any asset, whether owned on the Issue Date or acquired after the Issue Date (except for temporary leases for a term, including any renewal term, of up to three years and except for leases between or among Venator and any of its Restricted Subsidiaries), which property has been or is to be sold or transferred by Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to any party with the intention of taking back a lease of such property.

 

SEC ” means the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended , or any successor statute or statutes thereto .

 

Securitization Entity ” means a wholly owned Subsidiary of Venator (or another Person in which Venator or any Subsidiary of Venator makes an investment and to which Venator or any Subsidiary of Venator transfers, directly or indirectly, accounts receivable or participations or interests therein or related assets) which engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing of accounts receivable and which is designated by the Board of Directors of Venator (as provided below) as a Securitization Entity

 

(1)                                  no portion of the indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise) of which

 

(a)          is guaranteed by Venator or any Subsidiary of Venator (other than the Securitization Entity) (excluding guarantees of obligations (other than the principal of, and interest on, indebtedness)) pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings,

 

(b)          is recourse to or obligates Venator or any Subsidiary of Venator (other than the Securitization Entity) in any way other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings or

 

(c)           subjects any property or asset of Venator or any Subsidiary of Venator (other than the Securitization Entity), directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings and other than any interest in the accounts receivable and related assets being financed (whether in the form of an equity interest in such assets or subordinated indebtedness payable primarily from such financed assets), which equity interest or subordinated indebtedness is retained or acquired by Venator or any Subsidiary of Venator,

 

(2)                                  with which neither Venator nor any Subsidiary of Venator has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding other than on terms no less favorable to Venator or such Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not

 

11



 

affiliates of the Issuers, other than fees payable in the ordinary course of business in connection with servicing receivables of such entity, and

 

(3)                                  to which neither Venator nor any Subsidiary of Venator has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entity’s financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results.

 

Any such designation by the Board of Directors of Venator shall be evidenced to the Trustee by filing with the Trustee a certified copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors of Venator giving effect to such designation and an officers’ certificate certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing conditions.

 

Senior Credit Facility ” means the term loan facility under the credit agreement to be entered into in connection with the Proposed IPO, among the Issuers, as borrowers, Venator, as guarantor, and the other guarantors parties thereto, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., as administrative agent, and the lenders parties thereto from time to time.

 

Significant Subsidiary ” means any Restricted Subsidiary of Venator which, at the date of determination, is a “Significant Subsidiary” as such term is defined in Regulation S-X promulgated by the SEC.

 

Standard Securitization Undertakings ” means obligations, representations, warranties, covenants and indemnities entered into by Venator or any Securitization Entity or any Subsidiary of Venator which are customary or necessary in the relevant jurisdiction in an accounts receivable securitization transaction.

 

Subsidiary ” means with respect to any Person,

 

(1)                                  any corporation of which the outstanding Capital Stock having at least a majority of the votes entitled to be cast in the election of managers or directors, as applicable, under ordinary circumstances shall at the time be owned, directly or indirectly, by such Person; or

 

(2)                                  any other Person of which at least a majority of the voting interests under ordinary circumstances is at the time, directly or indirectly, owned by such Person.

 

Supplemental Indenture ” means a supplemental indenture substantially in the form of Exhibit D hereto.

 

Total Assets ” means, with respect to any Person, as of any date, the total consolidated assets of such Person and its Subsidiaries, without giving effect to any amortization of the amount of intangible assets since the Completion Date, as shown on the most recent internal balance sheet of such Person available of such date, prepared in accordance with GAAP.

 

Total Net Secured Debt ” means, as of any date, all Consolidated Total Net Debt as of such date that is secured by a Lien.

 

Total Net Secured Leverage Ratio ” means, as of any date, the ratio of Total Net Secured Debt as of such date to Consolidated EBITDA for the most recent four fiscal quarter period for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered, calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

12



 

Trustee ” means Wilmington Trust, National Association, until a successor replaces it in accordance with the applicable provisions of this Indenture and thereafter means the successor serving hereunder.

 

Unrestricted Definitive Note ” means a Definitive Note that does not bear and is not required to bear the Private Placement Legend.

 

Unrestricted Global Note ” means a Global Note that does not bear and is not required to bear the Private Placement Legend.

 

Unrestricted Subsidiary ” of any Person means:

 

(1)                                  any Subsidiary of such Person that at the time of determination will be or continue to be designated an Unrestricted Subsidiary; and

 

(2)                                  any Subsidiary of an Unrestricted Subsidiary.

 

The Board of Directors of Venator may, after the Issue Date, designate any Subsidiary (including any newly acquired or newly formed subsidiary) to be an Unrestricted Subsidiary if

 

(1)                                  such Subsidiary does not own any Capital Stock of, or does not own or hold any mortgage on any property of, Venator or any other Subsidiary of Venator that is not a Subsidiary of the Subsidiary to be so designated; and

 

(2)                                  each Subsidiary to be designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary and each of its Subsidiaries has not at the time of designation, and does not thereafter, create, incur, issue, assume, guarantee or otherwise become directly or indirectly liable with respect to any indebtedness for borrowed money under which the creditor has direct recourse to any of the assets of Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than obligations in respect of representations and warranties, indemnities and performance and completion guaranties and similar contingent liabilities).

 

The Board of Directors of Venator may designate any Unrestricted Subsidiary to be a Restricted Subsidiary only if immediately before and immediately after giving effect to such designation, no Default or Event of Default will have occurred and be continuing.

 

Any such designation by the Board of Directors of Venator will be evidenced to the Trustee by promptly delivering to the Trustee a copy of the board resolution approving the designation and an officers’ certificate certifying that the designation complied with this Indenture.

 

U.S. Person ” means a U.S. Person as defined in Rule 902(k) promulgated under the Securities Act.

 

Venator ” means Venator Materials PLC or any successor obligor to its obligations under this Indenture and its Note Guarantee pursuant to Article 5 hereof.

 

Voting Stock ” of any Person as of any date means the Capital Stock of such Person that is entitled to vote in the election of the board of directors or managers of such Person.

 

13



 

Section 1.02                                                                              Other Definitions.

 

 

 

Defined
in

Term

 

Section

 

 

 

Acceleration Notice

 

6.02

Additional Amounts

 

2.14

Alternate Offer

 

4.10

Alternate Offer Payment

 

4.10

Authentication Order

 

2.02

Change of Control Offer

 

4.10

Change of Control Payment

 

4.10

Change of Control Payment Date

 

4.10

Code

 

2.14

Covenant Defeasance

 

8.03

DTC

 

2.03

Event of Default

 

6.01

French Guarantor

 

10.02

German GmbH Guarantor

 

10.02

German GmbH & Co KG Guarantor

 

10.02

German Guarantor

 

10.02

Guarantee Obligations

 

10.02

Legal Defeasance

 

8.02

Maximum Guaranteed Amount

 

10.02

Net Asset Determination

 

10.02

Net Assets

 

10.02

Parent Entity

 

4.03

Paying Agent

 

2.03

Payor

 

2.14

Process Agent

 

2.17

Registrar

 

2.03

Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction

 

2.14

Share Capital Impairment

 

10.02

Special Mandatory Redemption

 

3.09

Special Mandatory Redemption Date

 

3.09

Special Mandatory Redemption Price

 

3.09

Special Termination Date

 

3.09

Successor Guarantor

 

10.04

Upstream Affiliate

 

10.02

 

Section 1.03                                                                              [Reserved].

 

Section 1.04                                                                              Rules of Construction.

 

Unless the context otherwise requires:

 

(1)                                  a term has the meaning assigned to it;

 

(2)                                  an accounting term not otherwise defined has the meaning assigned to it in accordance with GAAP;

 

14



 

(3)                                  “or” is not exclusive;

 

(4)                                  “including” is not limiting;

 

(5)                                  words in the singular include the plural, and in the plural include the singular;

 

(6)                                  “will” shall be interpreted to express a command;

 

(7)                                  provisions apply to successive events and transactions; and

 

(8)                                  references to sections of or rules under the Securities Act will be deemed to include substitute, replacement of successor sections or rules adopted by the SEC from time to time.

 

ARTICLE 2
THE NOTES

 

Section 2.01                                                                              Form and Dating.

 

(a)          General . The Notes and the Trustee’s certificate of authentication will be substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto. The Notes may have notations, legends or endorsements required by law, stock exchange rule or usage. Each Note will be dated the date of its authentication. The Notes shall be in minimum denominations of $2,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof.

 

The terms and provisions contained in the Notes will constitute, and are hereby expressly made, a part of this Indenture and the Issuers, the Guarantors and the Trustee, by their execution and delivery of this Indenture, expressly agree to such terms and provisions and to be bound thereby. However, to the extent any provision of any Note conflicts with the express provisions of this Indenture, the provisions of this Indenture shall govern and be controlling. For the avoidance of doubt, the application of articles 84 to 94-8 (inclusive and to the fullest extent permitted by law) of the Luxembourg Act of 10 August 1915 on commercial companies, as amended, shall be expressly excluded.

 

(b)          Global Notes . Notes issued in global form will be substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto (including the Global Note Legend thereon and the “Schedule of Exchanges of Interests in the Global Note” attached thereto). Notes issued in definitive form will be substantially in the form of Exhibit A hereto (but without the Global Note Legend thereon and without the “Schedule of Exchanges of Interests in the Global Note” attached thereto). Each Global Note will represent such of the outstanding Notes as will be specified therein and each shall provide that it represents the aggregate principal amount of outstanding Notes from time to time endorsed thereon and that the aggregate principal amount of outstanding Notes represented thereby may from time to time be reduced or increased, as appropriate, to reflect exchanges and redemptions. Any endorsement of a Global Note to reflect the amount of any increase or decrease in the aggregate principal amount of outstanding Notes represented thereby will be made by the Trustee or the Notes Custodian, at the direction of the Trustee, in accordance with instructions given by the Holder thereof as required by Section 2.06 hereof.

 

(c)           Euroclear and Clearstream Procedures Applicable. The provisions of the “Operating Procedures of the Euroclear System” and “Terms and Conditions Governing Use of Euroclear” and the “General Terms and Conditions of Clearstream Banking” and “Customer Handbook” of Clearstream will be applicable to transfers of beneficial interests in the Regulation S Global Note that are held by Participants through Euroclear or Clearstream.

 

15



 

Section 2.02                                                                              Execution and Authentication.

 

At least one Officer must sign the Notes for each Issuer by manual or facsimile signature.

 

If an Officer whose signature is on a Note no longer holds that office at the time a Note is authenticated, the Note will nevertheless be valid.

 

A Note will not be valid until authenticated by the manual signature of the Trustee. The signature will be conclusive evidence that the Note has been authenticated under this Indenture.

 

The Trustee will, upon receipt of a written order of each of the Issuers signed by an Officer of each Issuer (an “ Authentication Order ”), authenticate Notes for original issue that may be validly issued under this Indenture. There is no limit on the aggregate principal amount of Notes (including Additional Notes) that may be issued under this Indenture.

 

The Trustee may appoint an authenticating agent acceptable to the Issuers to authenticate Notes. An authenticating agent may authenticate Notes whenever the Trustee may do so. Each reference in this Indenture to authentication by the Trustee includes authentication by such agent. An authenticating agent has the same rights as an Agent to deal with Holders or an affiliate of the Issuers.

 

Section 2.03                                                                              Registrar and Paying Agent.

 

The Issuers will maintain an office or agency where Notes may be presented for registration of transfer or for exchange (“ Registrar ”) and an office or agency where Notes may be presented for payment (“ Paying Agent ”). The Registrar will keep a register of the Notes (the “ Register ”) and of their transfer and exchange. The Issuers may appoint one or more co-registrars and one or more additional paying agents. The term “Registrar” includes any co-registrar and the term “Paying Agent” includes any additional paying agent. The Issuers may change any Paying Agent or Registrar without notice to any Holder. The Issuers will notify the Trustee in writing of the name and address of any Agent not a party to this Indenture. If the Issuers fail to appoint or maintain another entity as Registrar or Paying Agent, the Trustee shall act as such. Venator or any of its Subsidiaries (including either Issuer) may act as Paying Agent or Registrar.

 

As the application of articles 84 to 94-8 (inclusive and to the fullest extent permitted by law) of the Luxembourg Act of 10 August 1915 on commercial companies, as amended, is expressly excluded hereunder, Venator Finance (unless acting as Registrar) will not maintain its own register of the notes at its registered office, so that the Register would constitute the best evidence of ownership of the notes, in the absence of proof to the contrary. Upon written request from Venator Finance, the Registrar shall provide Venator Finance with a copy of the Register for corporate law purposes.

 

The Issuers initially appoint The Depository Trust Company (“ DTC ”) to act as Depositary with respect to the Global Notes.

 

The Issuers initially appoint the Trustee to act as the Registrar and Paying Agent with respect to the Global Notes.

 

Section 2.04                                                                              Paying Agent to Hold Money in Trust.

 

The Issuers will require each Paying Agent other than the Trustee to agree in writing that the Paying Agent will hold in trust for the benefit of Holders or the Trustee all money held by the Paying Agent for the payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on the Notes, and will notify the

 

16



 

Trustee in writing of any default by the Issuers in making any such payment. While any such default continues, the Trustee may require a Paying Agent to pay all money held by it to the Trustee. The Issuers at any time may require a Paying Agent to pay all money held by it to the Trustee. Upon payment over to the Trustee, the Paying Agent (if other than Venator, either Issuer or a Subsidiary) will have no further liability for the money. If Venator, either Issuer or a Subsidiary acts as Paying Agent, it will segregate and hold in a separate trust fund for the benefit of the Holders all money held by it as Paying Agent. Upon any bankruptcy or reorganization proceedings relating to either Issuer, the Trustee will serve as Paying Agent for the Notes.

 

Section 2.05                                                                              Holder Lists.

 

The Trustee will preserve in as current a form as is reasonably practicable the most recent list available to it of the names and addresses of all Holders. If the Trustee is not the Registrar, the Issuers will furnish to the Trustee at least seven Business Days before each interest payment date and at such other times as the Trustee may request in writing, a list in such form and as of such date as the Trustee may reasonably require of the names and addresses of the Holders of Notes.

 

Section 2.06                                                                              Transfer and Exchange.

 

(a)          Transfer and Exchange of Global Notes . A Global Note may not be transferred except as a whole by the Depositary to a nominee of the Depositary, by a nominee of the Depositary to the Depositary or to another nominee of the Depositary, or by the Depositary or any such nominee to a successor Depositary or a nominee of such successor Depositary. All Global Notes will be exchanged by the Issuers for Definitive Notes if:

 

(1)                                  the Issuers deliver to the Trustee notice from the Depositary that it is unwilling or unable to continue to act as Depositary and a successor Depositary is not appointed by the Issuers within 90 days after the date of such notice from the Depositary;

 

(2)                                  the Issuers in their sole discretion determine that the Global Notes (in whole but not in part) should be exchanged for Definitive Notes and deliver an Officers’ Certificate to such effect to the Trustee; or

 

(3)                                  there has occurred and is continuing a Default or Event of Default with respect to the Notes and the Registrar has received a written request from DTC or 25% of the Holders.

 

Upon the occurrence of any of the preceding events in (1), (2) or (3) above, Definitive Notes shall be issued in such names as the Depositary shall instruct the Trustee in writing and the Issuers shall promptly make available to the Trustee a reasonable supply of Definitive Notes. Global Notes also may be exchanged or replaced, in whole or in part, as provided in Sections 2.07 and 2.10 hereof. Every Note authenticated and delivered in exchange for, or in lieu of, a Global Note or any portion thereof, pursuant to this Section 2.06 or Section 2.07 or 2.10 hereof, shall be authenticated and delivered in the form of, and shall be, a Global Note. A Global Note may not be exchanged for another Note other than as provided in this Section 2.06(a); however, beneficial interests in a Global Note may be transferred and exchanged as provided in Section 2.06(b), (c) or (f) hereof.

 

(b)          Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in the Global Notes . The transfer and exchange of beneficial interests in the Global Notes will be effected through the Depositary, in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture and the Applicable Procedures. Beneficial interests in the Restricted Global Notes will be subject to restrictions on transfer comparable to those set forth herein to the extent required by the Securities Act. Transfers of beneficial interests in the Global Notes also will require compliance

 

17



 

with either subparagraph (1) or (2) below, as applicable, as well as one or more of the other following subparagraphs, as applicable:

 

(1)                                  Transfer of Beneficial Interests in the Same Global Note . Beneficial interests in any Restricted Global Note may be transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in the same Restricted Global Note in accordance with the transfer restrictions set forth in the Private Placement Legend. Beneficial interests in any Unrestricted Global Note may be transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note. No written orders or instructions shall be required to be delivered to the Registrar to effect the transfers described in this Section 2.06(b)(1).

 

(2)                                  All Other Transfers and Exchanges of Beneficial Interests in Global Notes. In connection with all transfers and exchanges of beneficial interests that are not subject to Section 2.06(b)(1) above, the transferor of such beneficial interest must deliver to the Registrar either:

 

(A)        both:

 

(i)                                      a written order from a Participant or an Indirect Participant given to the Depositary in accordance with the Applicable Procedures directing the Depositary to credit or cause to be credited a beneficial interest in another Global Note in an amount equal to the beneficial interest to be transferred or exchanged; and

 

(ii)                                   instructions given in accordance with the Applicable Procedures containing information regarding the Participant account to be credited with such increase; or

 

(B)        both:

 

(i)                                      a written order from a Participant or an Indirect Participant given to the Depositary in accordance with the Applicable Procedures directing the Depositary to cause to be issued a Definitive Note in an amount equal to the beneficial interest to be transferred or exchanged; and

 

(ii)                                   instructions given by the Depositary to the Registrar containing information regarding the Person in whose name such Definitive Note shall be registered to effect the transfer or exchange referred to in (1) above.

 

Upon satisfaction of all of the requirements for transfer or exchange of beneficial interests in Global Notes contained in this Indenture and the Notes or otherwise applicable under the Securities Act, the Trustee shall adjust the principal amount of the relevant Global Note(s) pursuant to Section 2.06(h) hereof.

 

(3)                                  Transfer of Beneficial Interests to Another Restricted Global Note. A beneficial interest in any Restricted Global Note may be transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Restricted Global Note if the transfer complies with the requirements of Section 2.06(b)(2) above and the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)        if the transferee will take delivery in the form of a beneficial interest in the 144A Global Note, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (1) thereof; and

 

18



 

(B)        if the transferee will take delivery in the form of a beneficial interest in the Regulation S Global Note, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (2) thereof.

 

(4)                                  Transfer and Exchange of Beneficial Interests in a Restricted Global Note for Beneficial Interests in an Unrestricted Global Note . A beneficial interest in any Restricted Global Note may be exchanged by any holder thereof for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note or transferred to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note if the exchange or transfer complies with the requirements of Section 2.06(b)(2) above and the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)        if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note proposes to exchange such beneficial interest for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such holder in the form of Exhibit C hereto, including the certifications in item (1)(a) thereof; or

 

(B)        if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note proposes to transfer such beneficial interest to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such holder in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (4) thereof;

 

and, in each such case set forth in this Section 2.06(b)(4), if the Issuers or the Registrar so request or if the Applicable Procedures so require, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Issuers or the Registrar, as the case may be, to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Private Placement Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.

 

If any such transfer is effected pursuant to this Section 2.06(b)(4) at a time when an Unrestricted Global Note has not yet been issued, the Issuers shall issue and, upon receipt of an Authentication Order in accordance with Section 2.02 hereof, the Trustee shall authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to the aggregate principal amount of beneficial interests transferred pursuant to this Section 2.06(b)(4).

 

Beneficial interests in an Unrestricted Global Note cannot be exchanged for, or transferred to Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of, a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note.

 

(c)           Transfer or Exchange of Beneficial Interests for Definitive Notes.

 

(1)                                  Beneficial Interests in Restricted Global Notes to Restricted Definitive Notes. If any holder of a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note proposes to exchange such beneficial interest for a Restricted Definitive Note or to transfer such beneficial interest to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a Restricted Definitive Note, then, upon receipt by the Registrar of the following documentation:

 

(A)        if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note proposes to exchange such beneficial interest for a Restricted Definitive Note, a certificate from such holder in the form of Exhibit C hereto, including the certifications in item (2)(a) thereof;

 

19



 

(B)        if such beneficial interest is being transferred to a QIB in accordance with Rule 144A, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (1) thereof;

 

(C)        if such beneficial interest is being transferred to a Non-U.S. Person in an offshore transaction in accordance with Rule 903 or Rule 904, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (2) thereof;

 

(D)        if such beneficial interest is being transferred pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act in accordance with Rule 144, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (3)(a) thereof;

 

(E)         if such beneficial interest is being transferred to an Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (3)(b) thereof; or

 

(F)          if such beneficial interest is being transferred pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (3)(c) thereof,

 

the Trustee shall cause the aggregate principal amount of the applicable Global Note to be reduced accordingly pursuant to Section 2.06(h) hereof, and the Issuers shall execute and the Trustee shall authenticate and deliver to the Person designated in the instructions a Definitive Note in the appropriate principal amount. Any Definitive Note issued in exchange for a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note pursuant to this Section 2.06(c) shall be registered in such name or names and in such authorized denomination or denominations as the holder of such beneficial interest shall instruct the Registrar through instructions from the Depositary and the Participant or Indirect Participant. The Trustee shall deliver such Definitive Notes to the Persons in whose names such Notes are so registered. Any Definitive Note issued in exchange for a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note pursuant to this Section 2.06(c)(1) shall bear the Private Placement Legend and shall be subject to all restrictions on transfer contained therein.

 

(2)                                  Beneficial Interests in Restricted Global Notes to Unrestricted Definitive Notes. A holder of a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note may exchange such beneficial interest for an Unrestricted Definitive Note or may transfer such beneficial interest to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note only if the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)        if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note proposes to exchange such beneficial interest for an Unrestricted Definitive Note, a certificate from such holder in the form of Exhibit C hereto, including the certifications in item (1)(b) thereof; or

 

(B)        if the holder of such beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note proposes to transfer such beneficial interest to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note, a certificate from such holder in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (4) thereof;

 

and, in each such case set forth in this Section 2.06(c)(2), if the Issuers or Registrar so request or if the Applicable Procedures so require, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to

 

20


 

the Issuers or the Registrar, as the case may be, to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Private Placement Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.

 

(3)           Beneficial Interests in Unrestricted Global Notes to Unrestricted Definitive Notes. If any holder of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note proposes to exchange such beneficial interest for a Definitive Note or to transfer such beneficial interest to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a Definitive Note, then, upon satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Section 2.06(b)(2) hereof, the Trustee will cause the aggregate principal amount of the applicable Unrestricted Global Note to be reduced accordingly pursuant to Section 2.06(h) hereof, and the Issuers will execute and the Trustee will authenticate and deliver to the Person designated in the instructions a Definitive Note in the appropriate principal amount. Any Definitive Note issued in exchange for a beneficial interest pursuant to this Section 2.06(c)(3) will be registered in such name or names and in such authorized denomination or denominations as the holder of such beneficial interest requests through instructions to the Registrar from or through the Depositary and the Participant or Indirect Participant. The Trustee will deliver such Definitive Notes to the Persons in whose names such Notes are so registered. Any Definitive Note issued in exchange for a beneficial interest pursuant to this Section 2.06(c)(3) will not bear the Private Placement Legend.

 

(d)   Transfer and Exchange of Definitive Notes for Beneficial Interests.

 

(1)           Restricted Definitive Notes to Beneficial Interests in Restricted Global Notes. If any Holder of a Restricted Definitive Note proposes to exchange such Note for a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note or to transfer such Restricted Definitive Notes to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note, then, upon receipt by the Registrar of the following documentation:

 

(A)  if the Holder of such Restricted Definitive Note proposes to exchange such Note for a beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note, a certificate from such Holder in the form of Exhibit C hereto, including the certifications in item (2)(b) thereof;

 

(B)  if such Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred to a QIB in accordance with Rule 144A, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (1) thereof;

 

(C)  if such Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred to a Non-U.S. Person in an offshore transaction in accordance with Rule 903 or Rule 904, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (2) thereof;

 

(D)  if such Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred pursuant to an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act in accordance with Rule 144, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (3)(a) thereof;

 

(E)   if such Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred to an Issuer or any of its Subsidiaries, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (3)(b) thereof; or

 

21



 

(F)   if such Restricted Definitive Note is being transferred pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act, a certificate to the effect set forth in Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (3)(c) thereof,

 

the Trustee will cancel the Restricted Definitive Note, increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of, in the case of clause (A) above, the appropriate Restricted Global Note, in the case of clause (B) above, the 144A Global Note, and in the case of clause (C) above, the Regulation S Global Note.

 

(2)           Restricted Definitive Notes to Beneficial Interests in Unrestricted Global Notes. A Holder of a Restricted Definitive Note may exchange such Note for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note or transfer such Restricted Definitive Note to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note only if the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)  if the Holder of such Definitive Notes proposes to exchange such Notes for a beneficial interest in the Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such Holder in the form of Exhibit C hereto, including the certifications in item (1)(c) thereof; or

 

(B)  if the Holder of such Definitive Notes proposes to transfer such Notes to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in the Unrestricted Global Note, a certificate from such Holder in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (4) thereof;

 

and, in each such case set forth in this Section 2.06(d)(2), if the Issuers or the Registrar so request or if the Applicable Procedures so require, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Issuers or the Registrar, as the case may be, to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Private Placement Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.

 

Upon satisfaction of the conditions of any of the subparagraphs in this Section 2.06(d)(2), the Trustee will cancel the Definitive Notes and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of the Unrestricted Global Note.

 

(3)           Unrestricted Definitive Notes to Beneficial Interests in Unrestricted Global Notes. A Holder of an Unrestricted Definitive Note may exchange such Note for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note or transfer such Definitive Notes to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note at any time. Upon receipt of a request for such an exchange or transfer, the Trustee will cancel the applicable Unrestricted Definitive Note and increase or cause to be increased the aggregate principal amount of one of the Unrestricted Global Notes.

 

If any such exchange or transfer from a Definitive Note to a beneficial interest is effected pursuant to subparagraphs (2)(B), (2)(D) or (3) above at a time when an Unrestricted Global Note has not yet been issued, the Issuers will issue and, upon receipt of an Authentication Order in accordance with Section 2.02 hereof, the Trustee will authenticate one or more Unrestricted Global Notes in an aggregate principal amount equal to the principal amount of Definitive Notes so transferred.

 

22



 

(e)   Transfer and Exchange of Definitive Notes for Definitive Notes. Upon request by a Holder of Definitive Notes and such Holder’s compliance with the provisions of this Section 2.06(e), the Registrar will register the transfer or exchange of Definitive Notes. Prior to such registration of transfer or exchange, the requesting Holder must present or surrender to the Registrar the Definitive Notes duly endorsed or accompanied by a written instruction of transfer in form satisfactory to the Registrar duly executed by such Holder or by its attorney, duly authorized in writing. In addition, the requesting Holder must provide any additional certifications, documents and information, as applicable, required pursuant to the following provisions of this Section 2.06(e).

 

(1)           Restricted Definitive Notes to Restricted Definitive Notes. Any Restricted Definitive Note may be transferred to and registered in the name of Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of a Restricted Definitive Note if the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)  if the transfer will be made pursuant to Rule 144A, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (1) thereof;

 

(B)  if the transfer will be made pursuant to Rule 903 or Rule 904, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (2) thereof; and

 

(C)  if the transfer will be made pursuant to any other exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act, then the transferor must deliver a certificate in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications, certificates and Opinion of Counsel required by item (3) thereof, if applicable.

 

(2)           Restricted Definitive Notes to Unrestricted Definitive Notes. Any Restricted Definitive Note may be exchanged by the Holder thereof for an Unrestricted Definitive Note or transferred to a Person or Persons who take delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note if the Registrar receives the following:

 

(A)  if the Holder of such Restricted Definitive Notes proposes to exchange such Notes for an Unrestricted Definitive Note, a certificate from such Holder in the form of Exhibit C hereto, including the certifications in item (1)(d) thereof; or

 

(B)  if the Holder of such Restricted Definitive Notes proposes to transfer such Notes to a Person who shall take delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note, a certificate from such Holder in the form of Exhibit B hereto, including the certifications in item (4) thereof;

 

and, in each such case set forth in this Section 2.06(e)(2), if the Issuers or the Registrar so request, an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably acceptable to the Issuers or the Registrar, as the case may be, to the effect that such exchange or transfer is in compliance with the Securities Act and that the restrictions on transfer contained herein and in the Private Placement Legend are no longer required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act.

 

(3)           Unrestricted Definitive Notes to Unrestricted Definitive Notes. A Holder of Unrestricted Definitive Notes may transfer such Notes to a Person who takes delivery thereof in the form of an Unrestricted Definitive Note. Upon receipt of a request to register such a transfer, the Registrar shall register the Unrestricted Definitive Notes pursuant to the instructions from the Holder thereof.

 

23



 

(f)    [Reserved].

 

(g)   Legends. The following legends will appear on the face of all Global Notes and Definitive Notes issued under this Indenture unless specifically stated otherwise in the applicable provisions of this Indenture.

 

(1)           Private Placement Legend.

 

(A)

 

(i)            Except as permitted by subparagraph (B) below, each Rule 144A Global Note and each Definitive Note issued in exchange for a beneficial interest in a Rule 144A Global Note (and all Notes issued in exchange therefor or substitution thereof) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form:

 

“THIS SECURITY HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), OR THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION. NEITHER THIS SECURITY NOR ANY INTEREST OR PARTICIPATION HEREIN MAY BE REOFFERED, SOLD, ASSIGNED, TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED, ENCUMBERED OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR UNLESS SUCH TRANSACTION IS EXEMPT FROM, OR NOT SUBJECT TO, SUCH REGISTRATION. THE HOLDER OF THIS SECURITY, BY ITS ACCEPTANCE HEREOF, AGREES ON ITS OWN BEHALF AND ON BEHALF OF ANY INVESTOR ACCOUNT FOR WHICH IT HAS PURCHASED SECURITIES, TO OFFER, SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER SUCH SECURITY, PRIOR TO THE DATE (THE “RESALE RESTRICTION TERMINATION DATE”) THAT IS ONE YEAR AFTER THE LATER OF THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE HEREOF, THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE OF THE ISSUANCE OF ANY ADDITIONAL NOTES AND THE LAST DATE ON WHICH THE ISSUERS OR ANY AFFILIATE OF THE ISSUERS WAS THE OWNER OF THIS SECURITY (OR ANY PREDECESSOR OF SUCH SECURITY), ONLY (A) TO AN ISSUER OR ANY SUBSIDIARY THEREOF, (B) PURSUANT TO A REGISTRATION STATEMENT THAT HAS BEEN DECLARED EFFECTIVE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (C) FOR SO LONG AS THE SECURITIES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR RESALE PURSUANT TO RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT (“RULE 144A”), TO A PERSON IT REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A “QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER” AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A THAT PURCHASES FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OF A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER TO WHOM NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT THE TRANSFER IS BEING MADE IN RELIANCE ON RULE 144A, (D) PURSUANT TO OFFERS AND SALES TO NON-U.S. PERSONS THAT OCCUR OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES WITHIN THE MEANING OF REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OR (E) PURSUANT TO ANOTHER AVAILABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT, SUBJECT TO THE ISSUERS’ AND THE TRUSTEE’S RIGHT PRIOR TO ANY SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER PURSUANT TO CLAUSES (D) OR (E) TO REQUIRE THE DELIVERY OF AN OPINION OF COUNSEL, CERTIFICATION AND/ OR OTHER INFORMATION SATISFACTORY TO

 

24



 

EACH OF THEM. THIS LEGEND WILL BE REMOVED UPON THE REQUEST OF THE HOLDER AFTER THE RESALE RESTRICTION TERMINATION DATE.”

 

(ii)           Except as permitted by subparagraph (B) below, in the case of any Notes offered in reliance on Regulation S, each Regulation S Global Note and each Definitive Note issued in exchange for a beneficial interest in a Regulation S Global Note (and all Notes issued in exchange therefor or substitution thereof) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form::

 

“THIS SECURITY HAS NOT BEEN REGISTERED UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933, AS AMENDED (THE “SECURITIES ACT”), OR THE SECURITIES LAWS OF ANY STATE OR OTHER JURISDICTION. NEITHER THIS SECURITY NOR ANY INTEREST OR PARTICIPATION HEREIN MAY BE REOFFERED, SOLD, ASSIGNED, TRANSFERRED, PLEDGED, ENCUMBERED OR OTHERWISE DISPOSED OF IN THE ABSENCE OF SUCH REGISTRATION OR UNLESS SUCH TRANSACTION IS EXEMPT FROM, OR NOT SUBJECT TO, SUCH REGISTRATION. THE HOLDER OF THIS SECURITY, BY ITS ACCEPTANCE HEREOF, AGREES ON ITS OWN BEHALF AND ON BEHALF OF ANY INVESTOR ACCOUNT FOR WHICH IT HAS PURCHASED SECURITIES, TO OFFER, SELL OR OTHERWISE TRANSFER SUCH SECURITY, PRIOR TO THE DATE (THE “RESALE RESTRICTION TERMINATION DATE”) THAT IS 40 DAYS AFTER THE LATER OF THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE HEREOF, THE ORIGINAL ISSUE DATE OF THE ISSUANCE OF ANY ADDITIONAL NOTES AND THE DATE ON WHICH THIS SECURITY (OR ANY PREDECESSOR OF SUCH SECURITY) WAS FIRST OFFERED TO PERSONS OTHER THAN DISTRIBUTORS (AS DEFINED IN RULE 902 OF REGULATION S) IN RELIANCE ON REGULATION S, ONLY (A) TO AN ISSUER OR ANY SUBSIDIARY THEREOF, (B) PURSUANT TO A REGISTRATION STATEMENT THAT HAS BEEN DECLARED EFFECTIVE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT, (C) FOR SO LONG AS THE SECURITIES ARE ELIGIBLE FOR RESALE PURSUANT TO RULE 144A UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT (“RULE 144A”), TO A PERSON IT REASONABLY BELIEVES IS A “QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER” AS DEFINED IN RULE 144A THAT PURCHASES FOR ITS OWN ACCOUNT OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OF A QUALIFIED INSTITUTIONAL BUYER TO WHOM NOTICE IS GIVEN THAT THE TRANSFER IS BEING MADE IN RELIANCE ON RULE 144A, (D) PURSUANT TO OFFERS AND SALES TO NON-U.S. PERSONS THAT OCCUR OUTSIDE THE UNITED STATES WITHIN THE MEANING OF REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OR (E) PURSUANT TO ANOTHER AVAILABLE EXEMPTION FROM THE REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS OF THE SECURITIES ACT, SUBJECT TO THE ISSUERS’ AND THE TRUSTEE’S RIGHT PRIOR TO ANY SUCH OFFER, SALE OR TRANSFER PURSUANT TO CLAUSES (D) OR (E) TO REQUIRE THE DELIVERY OF AN OPINION OF COUNSEL, CERTIFICATION AND/ OR OTHER INFORMATION SATISFACTORY TO EACH OF THEM. THIS LEGEND WILL BE REMOVED UPON THE REQUEST OF THE HOLDER AFTER THE RESALE RESTRICTION TERMINATION DATE.  BY ITS ACQUISITION HEREOF, THE HOLDER HEREOF REPRESENTS THAT IT IS NOT A U.S. PERSON NOR IS IT

 

25



 

PURCHASING FOR THE ACCOUNT OF A U.S. PERSON AND IS ACQUIRING THIS SECURITY IN AN OFFSHORE TRANSACTION IN ACCORDANCE WITH REGULATION S UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT.”

 

(B)  Notwithstanding the foregoing, any Global Note or Definitive Note issued pursuant to subparagraphs (b)(4), (c)(2), (c)(3), (d)(2), (d)(3), (e)(2) or (e)(3) of this Section 2.06 (and all Notes issued in exchange therefor or substitution thereof) will not bear the Private Placement Legend.

 

(2)           Global Note Legend . Each Global Note will bear a legend in substantially the following form:

 

“THIS GLOBAL NOTE IS HELD BY THE DEPOSITARY (AS DEFINED IN THE INDENTURE GOVERNING THIS NOTE) OR ITS NOMINEE IN CUSTODY FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE BENEFICIAL OWNERS HEREOF, AND IS NOT TRANSFERABLE TO ANY PERSON UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES EXCEPT THAT (1) THE TRUSTEE MAY MAKE SUCH NOTATIONS HEREON AS MAY BE REQUIRED PURSUANT TO SECTION 2.06 OF THE INDENTURE, (2) THIS GLOBAL NOTE MAY BE EXCHANGED IN WHOLE BUT NOT IN PART PURSUANT TO SECTION 2.06(a) OF THE INDENTURE, (3) THIS GLOBAL NOTE MAY BE DELIVERED TO THE TRUSTEE FOR CANCELLATION PURSUANT TO SECTION 2.11 OF THE INDENTURE AND (4) THIS GLOBAL NOTE MAY BE TRANSFERRED TO A SUCCESSOR DEPOSITARY WITH THE PRIOR WRITTEN CONSENT OF THE ISSUERS.

 

UNLESS AND UNTIL IT IS EXCHANGED IN WHOLE OR IN PART FOR NOTES IN DEFINITIVE FORM, THIS NOTE MAY NOT BE TRANSFERRED EXCEPT AS A WHOLE BY THE DEPOSITARY TO A NOMINEE OF THE DEPOSITARY OR BY A NOMINEE OF THE DEPOSITARY TO THE DEPOSITARY OR ANOTHER NOMINEE OF THE DEPOSITARY OR BY THE DEPOSITARY OR ANY SUCH NOMINEE TO A SUCCESSOR DEPOSITARY OR A NOMINEE OF SUCH SUCCESSOR DEPOSITARY. UNLESS THIS CERTIFICATE IS PRESENTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF THE DEPOSITORY TRUST COMPANY (55 WATER STREET, NEW YORK, NEW YORK) (“DTC”), TO THE ISSUERS OR THEIR AGENT FOR REGISTRATION OF TRANSFER, EXCHANGE OR PAYMENT, AND ANY CERTIFICATE ISSUED IS REGISTERED IN THE NAME OF CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER NAME AS MAY BE REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC (AND ANY PAYMENT IS MADE TO CEDE & CO. OR SUCH OTHER ENTITY AS MAY BE REQUESTED BY AN AUTHORIZED REPRESENTATIVE OF DTC), ANY TRANSFER, PLEDGE OR OTHER USE HEREOF FOR VALUE OR OTHERWISE BY OR TO ANY PERSON IS WRONGFUL INASMUCH AS THE REGISTERED OWNER HEREOF, CEDE & CO., HAS AN INTEREST HEREIN.”

 

(3)           ERISA Legend . Each Global Note and each Definitive Note issued in exchange for a beneficial interest in a Global Note (and all Notes issued in exchange therefor or substitution thereof) shall bear a legend in substantially the following form:

 

“BY ITS ACQUISITION OF THIS SECURITY, THE HOLDER THEREOF WILL BE DEEMED TO HAVE REPRESENTED AND WARRANTED THAT EITHER (1) NO PORTION OF THE ASSETS USED BY SUCH HOLDER TO ACQUIRE OR HOLD THIS SECURITY CONSTITUTES THE ASSETS OF AN EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLAN THAT IS SUBJECT TO TITLE I OF THE U.S. EMPLOYEE RETIREMENT INCOME SECURITY ACT OF 1974, AS AMENDED (“ERISA”), OF A PLAN, INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNT

 

26



 

OR OTHER ARRANGEMENT THAT IS SUBJECT TO SECTION 4975 OF THE U.S. INTERNAL REVENUE CODE OF 1986, AS AMENDED (THE “CODE”) OR PROVISIONS UNDER ANY OTHER FEDERAL, STATE, LOCAL, NON-U.S. OR OTHER LAWS OR REGULATIONS THAT ARE SIMILAR TO SUCH PROVISIONS OF ERISA OR THE CODE (“SIMILAR LAWS”), OR OF AN ENTITY WHOSE UNDERLYING ASSETS ARE CONSIDERED TO INCLUDE “PLAN ASSETS” OF ANY SUCH PLAN, ACCOUNT OR ARRANGEMENT, OR (2) THE ACQUISITION AND HOLDING OF THIS SECURITY WILL NOT CONSTITUTE A NON-EXEMPT PROHIBITED TRANSACTION UNDER SECTION 406 OF ERISA OR SECTION 4975 OF THE CODE OR A SIMILAR VIOLATION UNDER ANY APPLICABLE SIMILAR LAWS.”

 

(h)   Cancellation and/or Adjustment of Global Notes. At such time as all beneficial interests in a particular Global Note have been exchanged for Definitive Notes or a particular Global Note has been redeemed, repurchased or canceled in whole and not in part, each such Global Note will be returned to or retained and canceled by the Trustee in accordance with Section 2.11 hereof. At any time prior to such cancellation, if any beneficial interest in a Global Note is exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Note or for Definitive Notes, the principal amount of Notes represented by such Global Note will be reduced accordingly and an endorsement will be made on such Global Note by the Trustee or by the Depositary at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such reduction; and if the beneficial interest is being exchanged for or transferred to a Person who will take delivery thereof in the form of a beneficial interest in another Global Note, such other Global Note will be increased accordingly and an endorsement will be made on such Global Note by the Trustee or by the Depositary at the direction of the Trustee to reflect such increase.

 

(i)    General Provisions Relating to Transfers and Exchanges.

 

(1)           To permit registrations of transfers and exchanges, the Issuers will execute and the Trustee will authenticate Global Notes and Definitive Notes upon receipt of an Authentication Order in accordance with Section 2.02 hereof or at the Registrar’s request.

 

(2)           No service charge will be made to a Holder of a beneficial interest in a Global Note or to a Holder of a Definitive Note for any registration of transfer or exchange, but the Issuers may require payment of a sum sufficient to cover any transfer tax or similar governmental charge payable in connection therewith (other than any such transfer taxes or similar governmental charges payable upon exchange or transfer pursuant to Sections 2.10, 3.06, 4.10 and 9.05 hereof).

 

(3)           The Registrar will not be required to register the transfer of or exchange of any Note selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any Note being redeemed in part.

 

(4)           All Global Notes and Definitive Notes issued upon any registration of transfer or exchange of Global Notes or Definitive Notes will be the valid obligations of the Issuers, evidencing the same debt, and entitled to the same benefits under this Indenture, as the Global Notes or Definitive Notes surrendered upon such registration of transfer or exchange.

 

(5)           Neither the Registrar nor the Issuers will be required:

 

(A)  to issue, to register the transfer of or to exchange any Notes during a period beginning at the opening of business 15 days before the day of any selection of Notes for

 

27



 

redemption under Section 3.02 hereof and ending at the close of business on the day of selection;

 

(B)  to register the transfer of or to exchange any Note selected for redemption in whole or in part, except the unredeemed portion of any Note being redeemed in part; or

 

(C)  to register the transfer of or to exchange a Note between a record date and the next succeeding interest payment date.

 

(6)           Prior to due presentment for the registration of a transfer of any Note, the Trustee, any Agent and the Issuers may deem and treat the Person in whose name any Note is registered as the absolute owner of such Note for the purpose of receiving payment of principal of and interest on such Notes and for all other purposes, and none of the Trustee, any Agent or the Issuers shall be affected by notice to the contrary.

 

(7)           The Trustee will authenticate Global Notes and Definitive Notes in accordance with the provisions of Section 2.02 hereof.

 

(8)           All certifications, certificates and Opinions of Counsel required to be submitted to the Registrar pursuant to this Section 2.06 to effect a registration of transfer or exchange may be submitted by facsimile.

 

(j)    The Trustee shall have no obligation or duty to monitor, determine or inquire as to compliance with any restrictions on transfer imposed under this Indenture or under applicable law with respect to any transfer of any interest in any Note other than to require delivery of such certificates and other documentation or evidence as are expressly required by, and to do so if and when expressly required by the terms of, this Indenture, and to examine the same to determine substantial compliance as to form with the express requirements hereof.

 

(k)   Neither the Trustee nor any Agent shall have any responsibility or liability for any actions taken or not taken by the Depositary.

 

Section 2.07                          Replacement Notes.

 

If any mutilated Note is surrendered to the Trustee or the Issuers and the Trustee receives evidence to its satisfaction of the destruction, loss or theft of any Note, the Issuers will issue and the Trustee, upon receipt of an Authentication Order, will authenticate a replacement Note if the Trustee’s requirements are met. If required by the Trustee or the Issuers, an indemnity bond must be supplied by the Holder that is sufficient in the judgment of (i) the Trustee for itself and (ii) the Issuers to protect the Issuers, the Trustee, any Agent and any authenticating agent, from any loss that any of them may suffer if a Note is replaced. The Issuers may charge the Holder for their expenses in replacing a Note.

 

Every replacement Note is an additional obligation of the Issuers and will be entitled to all of the benefits of this Indenture equally and proportionately with all other Notes duly issued hereunder.

 

Section 2.08                          Outstanding Notes.

 

The Notes outstanding at any time are all the Notes authenticated by the Trustee except for those canceled by it, those delivered to it for cancellation, those reductions in the interest in a Global Note effected by the Trustee in accordance with the provisions hereof, and those described in this Section 2.08

 

28



 

as not outstanding. Except as set forth in Section 2.09 hereof, a Note does not cease to be outstanding because either Issuer or an affiliate of either Issuer holds the Note.

 

If a Note is replaced pursuant to Section 2.07 hereof, it ceases to be outstanding unless the Trustee receives proof satisfactory to it that the replaced Note is held by a protected purchaser.

 

If the principal amount of any Note is considered paid under Section 4.01 hereof, it ceases to be outstanding and interest on it ceases to accrue.

 

If the Paying Agent (other than Venator, either Issuer, a Subsidiary or an affiliate of any thereof) holds, on a redemption date or maturity date, money sufficient to pay Notes payable on that date, then on and after that date such Notes will be deemed to be no longer outstanding and will cease to accrue interest.

 

Section 2.09                          Treasury Notes.

 

In determining whether the Holders of the required principal amount of Notes have concurred in any direction, waiver or consent, Notes owned by either Issuer or any Guarantor, or by any Person directly or indirectly controlling or controlled by or under direct or indirect common control with either Issuer or any Guarantor, will be considered as though not outstanding, except that for the purposes of determining whether the Trustee will be protected in relying on any such direction, waiver or consent, only Notes that a Responsible Officer of the Trustee actually knows are so owned will be so disregarded.

 

Section 2.10                          Temporary Notes.

 

Until certificates representing Notes are ready for delivery, the Issuers may prepare and the Trustee, upon receipt of an Authentication Order, will authenticate temporary Notes. Temporary Notes will be substantially in the form of certificated Notes but may have variations that the Issuers consider appropriate for temporary Notes. Without unreasonable delay, the Issuers will prepare and the Trustee will authenticate definitive Notes in exchange for temporary Notes.

 

Holders of temporary Notes will be entitled to all of the benefits of this Indenture.

 

Section 2.11                          Cancellation.

 

The Issuers at any time may deliver Notes to the Trustee for cancellation. The Registrar and Paying Agent will forward to the Trustee any Notes surrendered to them for registration of transfer, exchange or payment. The Trustee and no one else will cancel all Notes surrendered for registration of transfer, exchange, payment, replacement or cancellation and will dispose of such canceled Notes (subject to the record retention requirements of the Exchange Act and the Trustee). Certification of the cancellation of such Notes will be delivered to the Issuers upon their written request. The Issuers may not issue new Notes to replace Notes that it has paid or that have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation.

 

Section 2.12                          Defaulted Interest.

 

If the Issuers default in a payment of interest on the Notes, it will pay the defaulted interest in any lawful manner plus, to the extent lawful, interest payable on the defaulted interest, to the Persons who are Holders on a subsequent special record date, in each case at the rate provided in the Notes and in Section 4.01 hereof. The Issuers will notify the Trustee in writing of the amount of defaulted interest proposed to be paid on each Note and the date of the proposed payment. The Issuers will fix or cause to be fixed each

 

29



 

such special record date and payment date; provided that no such special record date may be less than 10 days prior to the related payment date for such defaulted interest. At least 15 days before the special record date, the Issuers (or, upon the written request of the Issuers, the Trustee in the name and at the expense of the Issuers) will send or cause to be sent to Holders a notice that states the special record date, the related payment date and the amount of such interest to be paid.

 

Section 2.13                          CUSIP and ISIN Numbers.

 

The Issuers in issuing the Notes may use “CUSIP” and/or “ISIN” numbers (if then generally in use), and, if so, the Trustee shall use “CUSIP” and/or “ISIN” numbers in notices of redemption or offers to purchase as a convenience to Holders; provided that the Trustee shall have no liability for any defect in the “CUSIP” and/or “ISIN” numbers as they appear on the any Note, notice or elsewhere, and, provided further that any such notice may state that no representation is made as to the correctness of such numbers either as printed on the Notes or as contained in any notice of a redemption and that reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers printed on the Notes, and any such redemption shall not be affected by any defect in or omission of such numbers. The Issuers will promptly notify the Trustee in writing of any change in the “CUSIP” and/or “ISIN” numbers.

 

Section 2.14                          Additional Amounts.

 

(a)           All payments required to be made by the Issuers under or with respect to the Notes or by any Guarantor under or with respect to a Note Guarantee (each of the Issuers or such Guarantor and, in each case, any successor thereof, making such payment, the “ Payor ”), will be made free and clear of, and without withholding or deduction for or on account of, any taxes imposed or levied by or on behalf of any authority or agency having power to tax within any jurisdiction in which any Payor is incorporated, organized or otherwise resident for tax purposes, or engaged in business for tax purposes, or any jurisdiction from or through which payment is made by or on behalf of such Payor (each a “ Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction ”), unless such Payor is required to withhold or deduct such Taxes by law or regulation.

 

(b)           If a Payor is so required to withhold or deduct any amount for or on account of taxes imposed or levied by or on behalf of a Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction from any payment made under or with respect to the Notes or a Note Guarantee, as applicable, such Payor will be required to pay such additional amounts (“ Additional Amounts ”) as may be necessary so that the net amount received by any Holder (including Additional Amounts) after such withholding or deduction will not be less than the amount the Holder or beneficial owner would have received if such taxes had not been withheld or deducted; provided , however , that the foregoing obligation to pay Additional Amounts does not apply to:

 

(1)           any taxes that would not have been (or would not be required to be) so imposed, withheld, deducted or levied but for the existence of any present or former connection between the relevant Holder or beneficial owner (or between a fiduciary, settlor, beneficiary, partner, member or shareholder of, or possessor of power over, the relevant Holder or beneficial owner, if the relevant Holder or beneficial owner is an estate, nominee, trust, partnership, company or corporation) and the Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction, including, without limitation, such Holder or beneficial owner being or having been a citizen, domiciliary, national or resident thereof, or being or having been present or engaged in a trade or business therein or having or having had a permanent establishment therein (other than any connection arising solely from the acquisition or holding of any Note, the receipt of any payments in respect of such Note or Note Guarantee or the exercise or enforcement of rights under a Note Guarantee);

 

30


 

(2)           any estate, inheritance, gift, sales transfer, personal property or similar tax or assessment;

 

(3)           any taxes which are payable other than by withholding or deduction from payments made under or with respect to the Notes or any Note Guarantee;

 

(4)           any taxes that would not have been (or would not be required to be) imposed, withheld, deducted or levied if such Holder or the beneficial owner of any Note or interest therein (i) complied with all reasonable written requests by the Payor (made at a time that would enable the Holder or beneficial owner acting reasonably to comply with such request) to provide timely and accurate information or documentation concerning the nationality, residence or identity of such Holder or beneficial owner or (ii) made any declaration or similar claim or satisfy any certification, information or reporting requirement, which in the case of (i) or (ii), is required or imposed by a statute, treaty, regulation or administrative practice of a Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction as a precondition to exemption from, or reduction in the rate of withholding or deduction of, all or part of such taxes;

 

(5)           any taxes withheld, deducted or imposed on a payment required to be made pursuant to the European Council Directive 2003/48/ EC on taxation of savings income in the form of interest payments or any other directive implementing the conclusions of the ECOFIN (European Union Economic and Finance Ministers) Council Meeting of November 26 and 27, 2000 on the taxation of savings income in the form of interest payments which was adopted by the ECOFIN Council on 3 June 2003, or pursuant to any law implementing or complying with, or introduced in order to conform to, such Directive or any agreement entered into by a new European Union Member State with (i) any other state or (ii) any relevant dependent or associated territory of any European Union Member State providing for measures equivalent to or the same as those provided for by such Directive;

 

(6)           any taxes imposed or withheld on or with respect to a payment which could have been made without deduction or withholding if the beneficiary of the payment had presented the Note for payment (where presentation is required) within 30 days after the date on which such payment or such Note became due and payable or the date on which payment thereof is duly provided for, whichever is later (except to the extent that the Holder or beneficial owner would have been entitled to Additional Amounts had the Note been presented on any day during the 30-day period);

 

(7)           any taxes imposed on or with respect to any payment made under or with respect to such Note or Note Guarantee to any Holder who is a fiduciary or partnership or any Person other than the sole beneficial owner of such payment, to the extent that a beneficiary or settlor with respect to such fiduciary, a member of such a partnership or the beneficial owner of such payment would not have been entitled to the Additional Amounts had such beneficiary, settlor, member or beneficial owner been the sole beneficial owner of such Note;

 

(8)           any taxes payable under Sections 1471-1474 of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “ Code ”), as of the issue date of the Notes (or any amended or successor version), any regulations or official interpretations thereof, any intergovernmental agreement entered into in connection therewith, or any law or regulation adopted pursuant to an intergovernmental agreement between a non-U.S. jurisdiction and the United States with respect to the foregoing or any agreements entered into pursuant to Section 1471(b)(1) of the Code;

 

(9)           any taxes imposed by the United States or any political subdivision thereof;

 

31



 

(10)         any taxes imposed or levied by reason of any combination of clauses (1) through (9) of this Section 2.14(b).

 

(c)           The Issuers and the Guarantors (as the case may be) will pay any present or future stamp, issue, registration, excise, property, court or documentary taxes, or similar taxes, charges or levies (referred to in this Section 2.14(c) as “ stamp taxes ”) and interest, penalties and other reasonable expenses related thereto that arise in or are levied by any Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction on the execution, issuance, delivery, enforcement or registration of the Notes, this Indenture, the Note Guarantees or any other document or instrument in relation thereto (other than on a transfer or assignment of the Notes after this offering) except for stamp taxes due as a result of registration or other action by the Holder where such registration or action is not necessary to maintain, preserve, establish, enforce, perfect or protect the rights of the Holder.

 

(d)           The Payor will make or cause to be made any withholding or deduction required in respect of taxes, and remit the full amount deducted or withheld to the Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction, in accordance with applicable law. Upon request, the Payor will use reasonable efforts to provide, within a reasonable time after the date the payment of any such taxes so deducted or withheld is made, the Trustee with official receipts or other documentation evidencing the payment of the taxes so deducted or withheld.

 

(e)           If any Payor will be obligated to pay Additional Amounts under or with respect to any payment made on the Notes, the Payor will deliver to the paying agent with a copy to the Trustee on a date that is at least 30 days prior to the date of that payment (unless the obligation to pay Additional Amounts arises after the 45th day prior to that payment date, in which case the Payor shall notify the paying agent and the Trustee promptly thereafter) a certificate stating the fact that Additional Amounts will be payable and the amount estimated to be so payable and such other information reasonably necessary to enable the paying agent to pay Additional Amounts to Holders on the relevant payment date. The Payor shall also deliver a form of Additional Amounts notice that can be delivered to the registered Holders.

 

(f)            Whenever in this Indenture there is mentioned, in any context:

 

(1)           the payment of principal;

 

(2)           the payment of interest; or

 

(3)           any other amount payable on or with respect to any of the Notes,

 

such reference will be deemed to include payment of Additional Amounts as described in this Section 2.14 to the extent that, in such context, Additional Amounts are, were or would be payable in respect thereof.

 

(g)           The obligations described in this Section 2.14 will survive any termination, defeasance or discharge of this Indenture or any Note Guarantee and will apply mutatis mutandis to any jurisdiction in which any successor Person to the Payor is incorporated, organized or otherwise resident for tax purposes or any political subdivision or taxing authority or agency thereof or therein.

 

32



 

ARTICLE 3
REDEMPTION AND PREPAYMENT

 

Section 3.01                          Notices to Trustee.

 

If the Issuers elect to redeem Notes pursuant to the optional redemption provisions of Section 3.07 hereof, it must furnish to the Trustee, at least 30 days but not more than 60 days before a redemption date (except that redemption notices may be sent more than 60 days prior to a redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of the Notes or a satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture pursuant to Articles 8 or 11 hereof), an Officers’ Certificate setting forth:

 

(1)           the clause of this Indenture pursuant to which the redemption shall occur;

 

(2)           the redemption date;

 

(3)           the principal amount of Notes to be redeemed; and

 

(4)           the redemption price.

 

Section 3.02                          Selection of Notes to Be Redeemed or Purchased.

 

If less than all of the Notes are to be redeemed or purchased in an offer to purchase at any time, selection of the Notes for redemption or purchase will be made by the Trustee in compliance with the requirements of the principal national securities exchange, if any, on which the Notes are listed or, if the Notes are not listed, then in accordance with the applicable procedures of DTC or, if the Notes are not represented by notes in global form, on a pro rata basis.

 

In the event of partial redemption or purchase, the particular Notes to be redeemed or purchased will be selected, unless otherwise provided herein, not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior to the redemption or purchase date by the Trustee from the outstanding Notes not previously called for redemption or purchase.

 

The Trustee will promptly notify the Issuers in writing of the Notes selected for redemption or purchase and, in the case of any Note selected for partial redemption or purchase, the principal amount thereof to be redeemed or purchased. Notes with a minimum principal amount of $2,000 or less may not be redeemed in part. Except as provided in the preceding sentence, provisions of this Indenture that apply to Notes called for redemption or purchase also apply to portions of Notes called for redemption or purchase.

 

Section 3.03                          Notice of Redemption.

 

At least 30 days but not more than 60 days before a redemption date, the Issuers will mail or cause to be mailed, by first class mail, or send electronically if the Notes are held by DTC, a notice of redemption to each Holder whose Notes are to be redeemed at its registered address, except that redemption notices may be sent more than 60 days prior to a redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of the Notes or a satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture pursuant to Articles 8 or 11 hereof.

 

The notice will identify the Notes (including CUSIP and/or ISIN numbers) to be redeemed and will state:

 

33



 

(1)           the date fixed for redemption of such Notes;

 

(2)           the redemption price and the amount of accrued interest, if any, to be paid;

 

(3)           the name and address of the Paying Agent;

 

(4)           that Notes called for redemption must be surrendered to the Paying Agent to collect the redemption price;

 

(5)           that unless the Issuers default in making the redemption payment, interest, if any, on Notes or portions of them called for redemption will cease to accrue on and after the redemption date;

 

(6)           that, if any Note is being redeemed in part, the portion of the principal amount of such Note to be redeemed, and the only remaining right of the Holders of such Notes is to receive payment of the redemption price upon surrender to the Paying Agent of such Notes;

 

(7)           that, if less than all the Notes are to be redeemed, the identification of the particular Notes and the principal amount (or portion thereof) of such Notes to be redeemed and the aggregate principal amount of Notes to be outstanding after such partial redemption;

 

(8)           whether the redemption is conditioned on any events and what such conditions are;

 

(9)           the paragraph of the Notes and/or Section of this Indenture pursuant to which the Notes called for redemption are being redeemed; and

 

(10)         that no representation is made as to the correctness or accuracy of the CUSIP and/or ISIN numbers, if any, listed in such notice or printed on the Notes.

 

Any notice of redemption may be given prior to the completion of any event or transaction related to such redemption, and any such redemption or notice may be subject to one or more conditions precedent. In addition, if such redemption or notice is subject to satisfaction of one or more conditions precedent, such notice will state that, in the discretion of the Issuers, the redemption date may be delayed until such time as any or all of such conditions have been satisfied, or such redemption may not occur and such notice may be rescinded in the event that any or all such conditions have not been satisfied by the redemption date, or by the redemption date so delayed. If one or more conditions specified with respect to a redemption are not satisfied or waived, the redemption date shall be deemed not to have occurred for all purposes of this Indenture and the Issuers shall give notice of such non-occurrence to the Holders of the applicable Notes and to the Trustee.

 

At the Issuers’ request, the Trustee will give the notice of redemption in the Issuers’ name and at their expense; provided , however , that the Issuers have delivered to the Trustee, at least 15 days prior to the date the notice of redemption is to be sent to Holders, an Officers’ Certificate requesting that the Trustee give such notice and setting forth the information to be stated in the Officer’s Certificate described in Section 3.01.

 

34



 

Section 3.04                          Effect of Notice of Redemption.

 

Once notice of redemption is sent in accordance with Section 3.03 hereof, Notes called for redemption become irrevocably due and payable on the redemption date at the redemption price, subject to the satisfaction of any condition set forth in the notice of redemption.

 

Section 3.05                          Deposit of Redemption or Purchase Price.

 

By 12:00 p.m. New York time on the redemption or purchase date, the Issuers will deposit with the Trustee or with the Paying Agent money sufficient to pay the redemption or purchase price of, accrued interest, if any, on all Notes to be redeemed or purchased on that date. The Trustee or the Paying Agent will promptly return to the Issuers any money deposited with the Trustee or the Paying Agent by the Issuers in excess of the amounts necessary to pay the redemption or purchase price of, accrued interest, if any, on all Notes to be redeemed or purchased.

 

If the Issuers comply with the provisions of the preceding paragraph, on and after the redemption or purchase date, interest will cease to accrue on the Notes or the portions of Notes called for redemption or purchase. If a Note is redeemed or purchased on or after an interest record date but on or prior to the related interest payment date, then any accrued and unpaid interest shall be paid to the Person in whose name such Note was registered at the close of business on such record date. If any Note called for redemption or purchase is not so paid upon surrender for redemption or purchase because of the failure of the Issuers to comply with the preceding paragraph, interest shall be paid on the unpaid principal, from the redemption or purchase date until such principal is paid, and to the extent lawful on any interest not paid on such unpaid principal, in each case at the rate provided in the Notes.

 

Section 3.06                          Notes Redeemed or Purchased in Part.

 

Upon surrender and cancellation of a Definitive Note that is redeemed or purchased in part, the Issuers will issue and, upon receipt of an Authentication Order, the Trustee will authenticate for the Holder at the expense of the Issuers a new Definitive Note in the name of the Holder equal in principal amount to the unredeemed or unpurchased portion of the Definitive Note surrendered upon cancellation of the original Definitive Note.

 

Section 3.07                          Optional Redemption.

 

(a)           At any time prior to July 15, 2020, the Issuers may on any one or more occasions redeem all or a part of the Notes, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed, plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the applicable date of redemption, subject to the rights of Holders on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date occurring prior to or on the date of redemption.

 

(b)           Prior to July 15, 2020, the Issuers may on any one or more occasions redeem up to 40% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) with an amount not greater than the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings, upon notice as described under Section 3.03, at a redemption price equal to 105.75% of the principal amount of the Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the applicable date of redemption; provided that (i) at least 60% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) remains outstanding after each such redemption (excluding Notes held by Venator and its Subsidiaries); and (ii) such redemption occurs within 120 days

 

35



 

after the closing of such Equity Offering. Notice of any such redemption must be given within 90 days after the date of such Equity Offering.

 

(c)           Except pursuant to Sections 3.07(a), 3.07(b), 3.08 and 4.10(e) hereof, the Notes will not be redeemable at the Issuers’ option prior to July 15, 2020.

 

(d)           On or after July 15, 2020, the Issuers may on any one or more occasions redeem all or a part of the Notes, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed) set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest on the Notes, if any, to the applicable date of redemption, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on July 15 of each of the years indicated below:

 

Year

 

Percentage

 

2020

 

104.313

%

2021

 

102.875

%

2022

 

101.438

%

2023 and thereafter

 

100.000

%

 

(e)           Unless the Issuers default in the payment of the redemption price, interest will cease to accrue on the Notes or portions thereof called for redemption on the applicable redemption date.

 

(f)            Any redemption pursuant to this Section 3.07 shall be made pursuant to the provisions of Sections 3.01 through 3.06 hereof.

 

Section 3.08                          Optional Redemption for Changes in Withholding Taxes.

 

(a)           The Issuers are entitled to redeem Notes, at their option, at any time in whole but not in part, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice to the Holders, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), in the event any Payor has become or would become obligated to pay, on the next date on which any amount would be payable with respect to the Notes, any Additional Amounts (but, in the case of a Guarantor, only if such amount could not be paid by the Issuers or another Note Guarantor who can pay such amount without the obligation to pay Additional Amounts), in each case, as a result of:

 

(1)           a change in, or an amendment to, the laws (including any regulations or rulings promulgated thereunder) or treaties of any Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction; or

 

(2)           any change in, amendment to, or introduction of any official published position regarding the application, administration or interpretation of such laws or treaties (including any regulations or rulings promulgated thereunder and including the decision of any court, governmental agency or tribunal),

 

which change, amendment or introduction is publicly announced or becomes effective on or after the Issue Date and the Payor cannot avoid such obligation by taking reasonable measures available to it (including making payment through a paying agent located in another jurisdiction), provided that such Payor will not be required to take any measures that would result in the imposition on it of any material legal or regulatory burden or the incurrence by it of any material additional costs, or would otherwise result in any material adverse consequences. The foregoing provisions will apply mutatis mutandis to the laws and official positions of any jurisdiction in which any successor permitted under Article 5 hereof is

 

36



 

incorporated, organized or otherwise resident for tax purposes or any political subdivision or taxing authority or agency thereof or therein.

 

(b)           Prior to the giving of any notice of redemption described in Section 3.08(a) hereof, the Issuers will deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate to the effect that the Payor cannot avoid its obligation to pay Additional Amounts by taking reasonable measures available to it. The Issuers will also deliver to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel of recognized standing to the effect that the Payor would be obligated to pay Additional Amounts as a result of a change, amendment, or introduction described above. Absent manifest error, the Trustee will accept such Opinion of Counsel as sufficient evidence of the Payor’s obligations, to pay such Additional Amounts, and it will be conclusive and binding on the Holders.

 

Section 3.09                          Special Mandatory Redemption.

 

(a)           In the event that (i) the Completion Date does not take place on or prior to the Escrow Outside Date or (ii) in the reasonable judgment of the Issuers, the Proposed IPO will not be consummated on or prior to the Escrow Outside Date (the date of any such event being the “ Special Termination Date ”), the Issuers shall redeem all of the Notes (the “ Special Mandatory Redemption ”) at a price (the “ Special Mandatory Redemption Price ”) equal to 100% of the aggregate issue price of the Notes, plus accrued but unpaid interest, if any, from the Issue Date to, but not including, the Special Mandatory Redemption Date (as defined in Section 3.09(b) hereof) (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

 

(b)           Notice of the Special Mandatory Redemption will be delivered by the Issuers, no later than five business days following the Special Termination Date, to the Holders of the notes, the Trustee, the paying agent and the Escrow Agent, and will provide that the Notes shall be redeemed on the third business day after such notice is given by the Issuers in accordance with the terms of the Escrow Agreement (the “ Special Mandatory Redemption Date ”). On the Special Mandatory Redemption Date, the Escrow Agent shall pay to the paying agent for payment to each Holder of Notes the Special Mandatory Redemption Price of such Holder’s Notes and, concurrently with the payment to such Holders of Notes, deliver any excess Escrowed Property (if any) to the Issuers in accordance with the instructions provided in writing to the Escrow Agent.

 

Section 3.10                          Mandatory Redemption.

 

The Issuers are not required to make mandatory redemption or sinking fund payments with respect to the Notes other than pursuant to Section 3.09 hereof.

 

ARTICLE 4
COVENANTS

 

Section 4.01                          Payment of Notes.

 

The Issuers will pay or cause to be paid the principal of, premium on, if any, and interest, if any, on, the Notes on the dates and in the manner provided in the Notes. Principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, will be considered paid on the date due if the Paying Agent, if other than Venator, either Issuer or a Subsidiary thereof, holds as of 12:00 p.m., Eastern Time, on the due date money deposited by the Issuers in immediately available funds and designated for and sufficient to pay all principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, then due.

 

37



 

Section 4.02                          Maintenance of Office or Agency.

 

The Issuers will maintain an office or agency (which may be an office of the Trustee or an affiliate of the Trustee, Registrar or co-registrar) where Notes may be surrendered for registration of transfer or for exchange and where notices and demands to or upon the Issuers in respect of the Notes and this Indenture may be served. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of the location, and any change in the location, of such office or agency. If at any time the Issuers fail to maintain any such required office or agency or fails to furnish the Trustee with the address thereof, such presentations, surrenders, notices and demands may be made or served at the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee; provided, however, no service of legal process may be made at any office of the Trustee.

 

The Issuers may also from time to time designate one or more other offices or agencies where the Notes may be presented or surrendered for any or all such purposes and may from time to time rescind such designations; provided , however , that no such designation or rescission will in any manner relieve the Issuers of its obligation to maintain an office or agency for such purposes. The Issuers will give prompt written notice to the Trustee of any such designation or rescission and of any change in the location of any such other office or agency.

 

The Issuers hereby designate the Corporate Trust Office of the Trustee as one such office or agency of the Issuers in accordance with Section 2.03 hereof.

 

Section 4.03                          Reports.

 

(a)           Whether or not required by the SEC, so long as any Notes are outstanding, Venator will furnish to the Trustee and to the Holders of Notes, within the time periods specified in the SEC’s rules and regulations including any extension periods available under such rules and regulations and excluding any requirement and time periods applicable to “accelerated filers” (as defined in Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act) under such rules and regulations, and make available to securities analysts and potential investors upon request:

 

(1)           all quarterly and annual financial information that would be required to be contained in a filing with the SEC on Forms 10-Q and 10-K if Venator were required to file such Forms, including a “Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations” or “Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations,” as applicable, and, with respect to the annual information only, a report on the annual financial statements by Venator’ certified independent accountants; and

 

(2)           all current reports that would be required to be filed with the SEC on Form 8-K if Venator were required to file such reports;

 

provided , however , that (i) in no event shall such reports be required to comply with Rule 3-09, Rule 3-10 or Rule 3-16 of Regulation S-X promulgated by the SEC (except that summary financial information with respect to non-guarantor Subsidiaries of the type and scope included in the Offering Memorandum will be required), (ii) in no event shall such reports be required to comply with Regulation G promulgated by the SEC or Item 10(e) of Regulation S-K promulgated by the SEC with respect to any non-GAAP financial measures contained therein, (iii) no such reports referenced under clause (2) above (other than reports referenced in clause (v) below) shall be required to be furnished if Venator determines in its good faith judgment that such event is not material to the Holders of the notes or the business, assets, operations or financial position of Venator and its Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, (iv) in no event shall such reports be required to include any information that is not otherwise similar to information currently included in the Offering Memorandum, other than with respect to reports provided under clause (2) above

 

38



 

and (v) in no event shall reports referenced in clause (2) above be required to include as an exhibits copies of any agreements, financial statements or other items that would be required to be filed as exhibits to a current report on Form 8-K except for (x) agreements evidencing material Indebtedness and (y) historical and pro forma financial statements to the extent reasonably available and, in any case with respect to pro forma financial statements, to include only pro forma total assets, total debt, senior secured debt, revenues, operating income and capital expenditures in lieu thereof.

 

(b)           If Venator has designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary any of its Subsidiaries that would constitute a Significant Subsidiary, then the quarterly and annual financial information required by Section 4.03(a) will include a reasonably detailed presentation, either on the face of the financial statements or in the footnotes or schedules thereto, or in Narrative Analysis of Results of Operations or Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations, as applicable, of the financial condition and results of operations of Venator and its Restricted Subsidiaries separate from the financial condition and results of operations of any such Unrestricted Subsidiaries of Venator.

 

(c)           In the event that any direct or indirect parent company of Venator is or becomes a Guarantor of the Notes, Venator may satisfy the requirements of this Section 4.03 with respect to financial information relating to direct or indirect parent of Venator (such entity the “ Parent Entity ”) instead of Venator; provided that to the extent either (x) such Parent Entity holds assets (other than its direct or indirect interest in Venator) that exceed 1% of the assets of Venator and its Subsidiaries as of such fiscal period end or (y) such Parent Entity has revenues (other than revenue of Venator and its Subsidiaries) that exceed 1% of the total revenue of Venator and its Subsidiaries for the immediately preceding fiscal period, then such information related to such Parent Entity shall be accompanied by consolidating information that explains in reasonable detail the differences between the information of such Parent Entity, on the one hand, and the information relating to Venator and its Subsidiaries on a stand-alone basis, on the other hand.

 

(d)           For so long as any Notes remain outstanding, if at any time they are not required to file with the SEC the reports required by Sections 4.03(a) and (b), the Issuers and the Guarantors will furnish to the Holders and to securities analysts and prospective investors, upon their request, the information required to be delivered pursuant to Rule 144A(d)(4) under the Securities Act.

 

(e)           Delivery of the reports and documents described above to the Trustee is for informational purposes only, and the Trustee’s receipt of such reports and documents shall not constitute constructive or actual notice of any information contained therein or determinable from information contained therein, including the Issuer’s compliance with any of its covenants hereunder (as to which the Trustee is entitled to rely on an Officers’ Certificate).

 

(f)            For purposes of this Section 4.03, Venator will be deemed to have furnished such reports referred to above to the Trustee and the Holders if Venator or any Parent Entity has filed such reports with the SEC via the EDGAR filing system and such reports are publicly available; provided , however , that the Trustee shall have no obligation to determine whether or not Venator shall have made such filings.

 

Section 4.04                          Compliance Certificate.

 

(a)           Venator or the Issuers shall deliver to the Trustee, within 90 days after the end of each fiscal year, an Officers’ Certificate stating that as to each such Officer signing such certificate, that to the best of his or her knowledge Venator and its Restricted Subsidiaries have kept, observed, performed and fulfilled each and every covenant contained in this Indenture and is not in default in the performance or observance of any of the terms, provisions and conditions of this Indenture (or, if a Default or Event of

 

39



 

Default has occurred, describing all such Defaults or Events of Default of which he or she may have knowledge and what action Venator or the Issuers are taking or propose to take with respect thereto).

 

(b)           So long as any of the Notes are outstanding, Venator or the Issuers will deliver to the Trustee, promptly upon any Officer obtaining knowledge of any Default or Event of Default, an Officers’ Certificate specifying such Default or Event of Default, the status thereof and what action it has taken or proposes to take to remedy such Default or Event of Default.

 

Section 4.05                          Stay, Extension and Usury Laws.

 

Each of the Issuers and each of the Guarantors covenants (to the extent that it may lawfully do so) that it will not at any time insist upon, plead or in any manner whatsoever claim or take the benefit or advantage of any stay, extension or usury law wherever enacted, now or at any time hereafter in force, that may affect the covenants or the performance of this Indenture; and each of the Issuers and each of the Guarantors (to the extent that it may lawfully do so) hereby expressly waives all benefit or advantage of any such law, and covenants that it will not, by resort to any such law, hinder, delay or impede the execution of any power herein granted to the Trustee, but will suffer and permit the execution of every such power as though no such law has been enacted.

 

Section 4.06                          Limitation on Secured Debt.

 

(a)           Venator will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to create, incur, issue, assume or guarantee any indebtedness for borrowed money secured by a Mortgage on or upon any Principal Property, whether owned at the date of this Indenture or acquired after the date of this Indenture, without ensuring that the Notes (together, at Venator’s option, with any other indebtedness created, issued, assumed or guaranteed by Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries then existing or thereafter created) will be secured by such Mortgage equally and ratably with (or, at Venator’s option, prior to) such indebtedness for so long as such indebtedness is so secured.

 

(b)           The provisions of Section 4.06(a) hereof will not apply to indebtedness secured by any of the following:

 

(1)           Mortgages on any property acquired, leased, constructed or improved by Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries after the date of this Indenture to secure indebtedness incurred for the purpose of financing or refinancing all or any part of the purchase price of such property or of the cost of any construction or improvements on such property, in each case, to the extent that the original indebtedness is incurred prior to or within one year after the applicable acquisition, lease, completion of construction or beginning of commercial operation of such property, as the case may be;

 

(2)           Mortgages on any property existing at the time Venator or any Restricted Subsidiary acquires any of the same;

 

(3)           Mortgages on property of a Person existing at the time Venator or any Restricted Subsidiary merges or consolidates with such Person or at the time Venator or any Restricted Subsidiary acquires all or substantially all of the properties of such Person;

 

(4)           Mortgages to secure indebtedness of any Restricted Subsidiary of Venator to Venator or another Restricted Subsidiary;

 

40


 

(5)           Mortgages in favor of governmental bodies to secure partial, progress, advance or other payments pursuant to any contract or statute or to secure indebtedness incurred or guaranteed to finance or refinance all or any part of the purchase price of the property, shares of capital stock or indebtedness subject to such Mortgages or the cost of constructing or improving the property subject to such Mortgage;

 

(6)           Mortgages to secure indebtedness, together with all other indebtedness incurred under this clause (6) not to exceed, at the time of incurrence and after application of the proceeds therefrom, an aggregate amount not to exceed the greater of (i) $1,100.0 million (including any refinancing indebtedness incurred pursuant to clause (7) below) and (ii) an amount that, after giving pro forma effect to the incurrence of such indebtedness, would cause the Total Net Secured Leverage Ratio to exceed 2.50 to 1.00;

 

(7)           extensions, renewals or replacements of any Mortgage existing on, or contractually obligated to be granted within a period of time following, the Completion Date (other than mortgages securing indebtedness under the ABL Credit Facility or the Senior Credit Facility) or any Mortgage referred to above; provided that the principal amount of indebtedness secured thereby may not exceed the principal amount of indebtedness so secured at the time of such extension, renewal or replacement (plus the amount of all fees, premiums, expenses and accrued interest payable in connection therewith), and such extension, renewal or replacement will be limited to all or a part of the property (plus improvements and construction on such property), shares of Capital Stock or indebtedness that was subject to the Mortgage so extended, renewed or replaced;

 

(8)           Mortgages on accounts receivables and related assets of Venator and its Restricted Subsidiaries pursuant to a Qualified Securitization Transaction; and

 

(9)           Permitted Liens.

 

(c)           Notwithstanding the restrictions in Section 4.06(a), Venator and any of its Restricted Subsidiaries may create, incur, issue, assume or guarantee indebtedness secured by a Mortgage without adhering to the requirements of Section 4.06(a) or (b), if at the time of such issuance, assumption or guarantee, after giving effect thereto and to the retirement of any indebtedness that is concurrently being retired, the aggregate amount of all such indebtedness secured by Mortgages that would otherwise be subject to the restrictions in Section 4.06(a) (other than any indebtedness secured by Mortgages described in clauses (1) through (9) of Section 4.06(b)) plus the aggregate amount (without duplication) of (x) all Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt (as defined below) (other than Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt described in clauses (1) through (7) of Section 4.07(b)) and (y) all Attributable Debt of Venator and any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of Sale and Lease-Back Transactions (with the exception of any such transactions that are permitted under clauses (1) and (2) of Section 4.08(a)) does not exceed 15% of the Consolidated Net Tangible Assets of Venator as of the date on which any such indebtedness is incurred.

 

Section 4.07                          Limitation on Subsidiary Debt.

 

(a)           Venator will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries (other than Venator Finance and Venator Co-Issuer) that is not a Guarantor to, create, assume, incur, issue or guarantee (collectively, “incur”) any indebtedness for borrowed money (any such indebtedness of a non-guarantor Subsidiary, “Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt”), unless such Restricted Subsidiary guarantees the payment of the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Notes on an unsecured unsubordinated basis.

 

41



 

(b)           The provisions of Section 4.07(a) hereof will not apply to Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt constituting:

 

(1)           indebtedness of a Person existing at the time such Person is merged into or consolidated with Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries or at the time of a sale, lease or other disposition of the properties and assets of such Person (or a division thereof) as an entirety or substantially as an entirety to any Restricted Subsidiary of Venator that is assumed by any Restricted Subsidiary of Venator; provided that such indebtedness was not incurred in contemplation thereof;

 

(2)           indebtedness of a Person existing at the time such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary of Venator; provided that such indebtedness was not incurred in contemplation thereof;

 

(3)           indebtedness owed to or among Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(4)           indebtedness of any Restricted Subsidiary of Venator secured by Mortgages on assets of such Restricted Subsidiary permitted under any of clauses (1) through (9) of Section 4.06(b);

 

(5)           indebtedness outstanding on the Completion Date or any extension, renewal, replacement or refunding of any indebtedness existing on the Completion Date or referred to in clauses (1), (2), (3) or (4) ; provided that the principal amount of the indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (5) shall not exceed the principal amount of the original indebtedness plus all premiums, fees and expenses (including accrued interest) payable in connection with any such extension, renewal, replacement or refunding;

 

(6)           indebtedness in respect of a Qualified Securitization Transaction; and

 

(7)           additional indebtedness; provided that the aggregate principal amount of indebtedness incurred under this clause (7), when aggregated with the principal amount of all other indebtedness then outstanding and incurred pursuant to this clause (7), does not, as of any date of incurrence, exceed the greater of (a) $150.0 million or (b) 5.0% of the Consolidated Net Tangible Assets of Venator; as of the date on which any such indebtedness is incurred.

 

(c)           Notwithstanding the restrictions described in this Section 4.07, Venator and any of its Restricted Subsidiaries may create, incur, issue, assume or guarantee Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt, without adhering to the requirements of Section 4.07(a), if at the time of such creation, incurrence, issuance, assumption or guarantee, after giving effect thereto and to the retirement of any indebtedness that is concurrently being retired, the aggregate amount of all such Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt that would otherwise be subject to the restrictions in Section 4.07(a) (other than Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt described in clauses (1) through (7) of Section 4.07(b)); plus the aggregate amount (without duplication) of (x) all indebtedness secured by Mortgages (not including any such indebtedness secured by Mortgages described in clauses (1) through (9) of Section 4.06(b)), and (y) all Attributable Debt of Venator and any of its Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of Sale and Lease-Back Transactions (with the exception of any such transactions that are permitted under clauses (1) and (2) of 4.08) does not exceed 15% of the Consolidated Net Tangible Assets of Venator as of the date on which any such indebtedness is incurred.

 

42



 

Section 4.08                          Limitation on Sale and Lease-back Transactions.

 

Venator will not, and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to, enter into any Sale and Lease-back Transaction with respect to any of their Principal Properties unless:

 

(1)           Venator or such Subsidiary would be entitled under the provisions described in clauses (1) through (9) of Section 4.06(b) to create, issue, assume or guarantee indebtedness secured by a Mortgage on the property to be leased without having to equally and ratably secure the Notes;

 

(2)           Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries applies an amount equal to the amount of the net cash proceeds from the sale of the Principal Property sold in such Sale and Lease-Back Transaction within 365 days after the consummation thereof to make non-mandatory prepayments on long-term indebtedness, retire long-term indebtedness or acquire, construct or improve a manufacturing plant or facility or other assets that are used or useful in their business; or

 

(3)           the sum of

 

(a)           the Attributable Debt of Venator and its Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of such Sale and Lease-Back Transaction and all other Sale and Lease-Back Transactions entered into after the Issue Date (other than any such Sale and Lease-Back Transaction as would be permitted pursuant to clauses (1) or (2) of this sentence), plus

 

(b)           the aggregate principal amount (without duplication) of

 

(i)            indebtedness secured by Mortgages then outstanding (not including any such indebtedness secured by Mortgages described in clauses (1) through (9) of Section 4.06(b)) that do not equally and ratably secure the Notes (or secure Notes on a basis that is prior to other indebtedness secured thereby) and

 

(ii)           Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt (not including any such Non-Guarantor Subsidiary Debt described in clauses (1) through (7) of Section 4.07(b))

 

would not exceed 15% of the Consolidated Net Tangible Assets of Venator as of the date of consummation of any such Sale and Lease-Back Transaction pursuant to this clause (3).

 

Section 4.09                          Corporate Existence.

 

Subject to Article 5 hereof and Section 10.04 hereof, Venator and each Issuer shall do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve and keep in full force and effect:

 

(1)           its corporate existence, and the corporate, partnership or other existence of each of its Subsidiaries, in accordance with the respective organizational documents (as the same may be amended from time to time) of Venator, such Issuer or any such Subsidiary; and

 

(2)           the rights (charter and statutory), licenses and franchises of Venator, such Issuer and its Subsidiaries; provided , however , that Venator shall not be required to preserve any such right, license or franchise, or the corporate, partnership or other existence of any of its

 

43



 

Subsidiaries, if the Board of Directors shall determine that the preservation thereof is no longer desirable in the conduct of the business of Venator and its Subsidiaries, taken as a whole, and that the loss thereof is not adverse in any material respect to the Holders of the Notes.

 

Section 4.10                          Offer to Repurchase Upon Change of Control Repurchase Event.

 

(a)           Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control Repurchase Event, each Holder will have the right to require the Issuers to make an offer (a “ Change of Control Offer ”) to each Holder to repurchase all or any part (equal to a minimum of $2,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof) of such Holder’s Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on the Notes repurchased to, but not including, the date of purchase, subject to the rights of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date occurring on or prior to the repurchase date (the “ Change of Control Payment ”). Within 30 days following any Change of Control Repurchase Event, the Issuers will send a notice to the Trustee and each Holder describing the transaction or transactions that constitute the Change of Control and stating:

 

(1)           that a Change of Control Repurchase Event has occurred and that such Holder has the right to require the Issuers to repurchase such Holder’s notes at a repurchase price in cash equal to 101% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the date of repurchase (subject to the right of Holders of record on a record date to receive interest on the relevant interest payment date occurring on or prior to the repurchase date);

 

(2)           the circumstances and relevant facts and financial information regarding such Change of Control Repurchase Event;

 

(3)           the repurchase date (the “ Change of Control Payment Date ”) (which will be no earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date such notice is sent); and

 

(4)           if such notice is delivered in advance of the occurrence of a Change of Control, that the Change of Control Offer is conditioned upon the occurrence of such Change of Control and setting forth a brief description of the definitive agreement for the Change of Control; and

 

(5)           that Holders electing to have any Notes purchased pursuant to a Change of Control Offer will be required to surrender the Notes, with the form entitled “Option of Holder to Elect Purchase” attached to the Notes completed, or transfer by book-entry transfer, to the applicable Paying Agent at the address specified in the notice prior to the close of business on the third Business Day preceding the Change of Control Payment Date;

 

The Issuers will comply with the requirements of Rule 14e-1 under the Exchange Act and any other securities laws, rules and regulations thereunder to the extent those laws, rules and regulations are applicable in connection with the repurchase of the Notes as a result of a Change of Control Repurchase Event. To the extent that the provisions of any securities laws, rules or regulations conflict with the provisions of this Section 4.10, the Issuers will comply with the applicable securities laws, rules and regulations and will not be deemed to have breached its obligations under this Section 4.10 by virtue of such compliance.

 

(b)           On the Change of Control Payment Date, the Issuers will, to the extent lawful:

 

44



 

(1)           accept for payment all Notes or portions of Notes properly tendered pursuant to the Change of Control Offer;

 

(2)           deposit with the applicable Paying Agent an amount equal to the Change of Control Payment in respect of all Notes or portions of Notes properly tendered; and

 

(3)           deliver or cause to be delivered to the Trustee the Notes properly accepted together with an Officers’ Certificate stating the aggregate principal amount of Notes or portions of Notes being purchased by the Issuers.

 

The applicable Paying Agent will promptly send (but in any case not later than five days after the Change of Control Payment Date) to each Holder of Notes properly tendered the Change of Control Payment for such Notes, and the Trustee will promptly authenticate and mail (or cause to be transferred by book entry) to each Holder a new Note equal in principal amount to any unpurchased portion of the Notes surrendered, if any. The Issuers will publicly announce the results of the Change of Control Offer on or as soon as practicable after the Change of Control Payment Date.

 

Notes repurchased by the Issuers pursuant to a Change of Control Offer will have the status of Notes issued but not outstanding or will be canceled at the option of the Issuers. Notes purchased by a third party pursuant to the preceding paragraph will have the status of Notes issued and outstanding.

 

(c)           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Section 4.10, the Issuers will not be required to make a Change of Control Offer with respect to the Notes upon the consummation of a Change of Control Repurchase Event if (i) a third party makes the Change of Control Offer in the manner, at the time and otherwise in compliance with the requirements set forth in this Section 4.10 and purchases all Notes properly tendered and not withdrawn under the Change of Control Offer, (ii) notice of redemption of all outstanding notes has been given pursuant to Section 3.03 of this Indenture, unless and until there is a default in payment of the applicable redemption price or (iii) in connection with or in contemplation of any Change of Control, the Issuers have made an offer to purchase (an “ Alternate Offer ”) any and all notes validly tendered at a cash price equal to or higher than the Change of Control Payment, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of repurchase (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date occurring on or prior to the repurchase date) (the “ Alternate Offer Payment ”), and has purchased all notes properly tendered and not properly withdrawn in accordance with the terms of such Alternate Offer. Any Alternate Offer shall specify a repurchase date which shall be no earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date such Alternate Offer is made.

 

(d)           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, a Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer may be made in advance of the occurrence of a Change of Control, and conditioned upon the occurrence of such Change of Control, if a definitive agreement is in place for the Change of Control at the time of making of the Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer. The closing date of any such Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer made in advance of a Change of Control may be changed to conform to the actual closing date of the Change of Control; provided that such closing date is not earlier than 30 days nor later than 60 days from the date the Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer notice is sent.

 

(e)           In the event that Holders of not less than 90% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes accept a Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer and the Issuers (or any third party making such Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer in lieu of the Issuers as described in Section 4.10(c)) purchase all of the notes held by such Holders, the Issuers will have the right, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior notice, given not more than 30 days following the purchase pursuant to

 

45



 

the Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer described above, to redeem all of the Notes that remain outstanding following such purchase at a redemption price equal to the Change of Control Payment or the Alternate Offer Payment, as the case may be, plus, to the extent not included in the Change of Control Payment or the Alternate Offer Payment, accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on the Notes that remain outstanding, to, but not including, the date of redemption (subject to the rights of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on an interest payment date that is on or prior to the redemption date).

 

Section 4.11                          Activities Prior to the Completion Date.

 

(a)           Prior to the Release on the Completion Date, the primary activities of Venator, the Issuers and their Subsidiaries (as applicable) shall consist of conducting their business in the ordinary course, issuing the Notes, issuing Capital Stock and receiving capital contributions in connection with the Proposed IPO and the Reorganization and otherwise consummating the Proposed IPO and the Reorganization, performing their respective obligations in respect of the Notes under this Indenture and the Escrow Agreement, and redeeming the notes pursuant to Section 3.09 hereof, if applicable, and conducting such other activities as are necessary or appropriate to carry out the activities described in this Section 4.11.

 

(b)           Prior to the Release on the Completion Date, none of Venator, the Issuers or their Subsidiaries will be subject to the requirements of Sections 4.03, 4.06, 4.07, 4.08, Article 5 or Section 10.04 hereof.

 

ARTICLE 5
SUCCESSORS

 

Section 5.01                          Merger, Consolidation and Sale of Assets.

 

(a)           Each Issuer and Venator may consolidate or merge with or into any other Person, or lease, sell or transfer all or substantially all of its respective properties and assets if:

 

(1)           the Person formed by such consolidation or into which such Issuer or Venator, as the case may be, is merged, or the Person which acquires by lease, sale or transfer all or substantially all of the property and assets of such Issuer or Venator, as the case may be, is a corporation organized and existing under the laws of Luxembourg, the United States, any state in the United States or the District of Columbia or the United Kingdom or any member state of the European Union;

 

(2)           the Person formed by such consolidation or into which such Issuer or Venator, as the case may be, is merged, or the Person which acquires by lease, sale or transfer all or substantially all of the property and assets of such Issuer or Venator, as the case may be, agrees to pay the principal of, and any premium and interest on, the Notes, assume, perform and observe all obligations, covenants and conditions of the Issuers and Venator, as the case may be, under this Indenture by executing and delivering to the Trustee a Supplemental Indenture; and

 

(3)           immediately after giving effect to such transaction and treating indebtedness for borrowed money that becomes an obligation of such Issuer, Venator or any of their Restricted Subsidiaries as a result of such transaction as having been incurred by such Issuer, Venator or such Restricted Subsidiaries at the time of such transaction, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.

 

46



 

If, upon any such consolidation or merger, or upon any such lease, sale or transfer of property and assets, any Principal Property owned immediately prior to the transaction, would thereupon become subject to a Mortgage securing any indebtedness for borrowed money of, or guaranteed by, such other Person or any of its Subsidiaries (other than any Mortgage, security interest, pledge or Mortgage permitted pursuant to clauses (1) through (9) of Section 4.06(b)), such Issuer, Venator or such Restricted Subsidiary will, prior to such consolidation, merger, lease, sale or transfer, by executing and delivering to the Trustee a Supplemental Indenture, secure the due and punctual payment of the principal of, and any premium and interest on, the Notes (together, at such Issuer’s or Venator’s option, with any other indebtedness of, or guaranteed by, such Issuer, Venator or any of their Restricted Subsidiaries then existing or thereafter created) equally and ratably with (or, at such Issuer’s option, prior to) the indebtedness secured by such Mortgage for so long as such indebtedness is so secured.

 

(b)           In addition, notwithstanding the foregoing, Venator or either Issuer may (a) consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, lease or transfer all or substantially all of its properties or assets to, Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries or (b) merge or consolidate with an affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating or reorganizing Venator or such Issuer in another jurisdiction, including the conversion of Venator Co-Issuer into a Delaware limited liability company.

 

Section 5.02                          Successor Corporation Substituted.

 

Upon any consolidation or merger, or any sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition of all or substantially all of the properties or assets of an Issuer or Venator in a transaction that is subject to, and that complies with the provisions of, Section 5.01 hereof, the successor Person formed by such consolidation or into or with which such Issuer or Venator is merged or to which such sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition is made shall succeed to, and be substituted for (so that from and after the date of such consolidation, merger, sale, assignment, transfer, lease, conveyance or other disposition, the provisions of this Indenture referring to “Venator” or “Issuer” as the case may be, shall refer instead to the successor Person and not to such Issuer or Venator), and may exercise every right and power of such Issuer or Venator under this Indenture with the same effect as if such successor Person had been named as Issuer or Venator herein; provided , however , that the predecessor Issuer or Venator shall not be relieved from the obligation to pay the principal of, premium on, if any, and interest, if any, on, the Notes except in the case of a sale of all of such Issuer’s or Venator’s assets in a transaction that is subject to, and that complies with the provisions of, Section 5.01 hereof.

 

ARTICLE 6
DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES

 

Section 6.01                          Events of Default.

 

Each of the following events is an “ Event of Default ”:

 

(1)           the failure to pay interest on any Notes when the same becomes due and payable and the default continues for a period of 30 days;

 

(2)           the failure to pay the principal on any Notes, when such principal becomes due and payable, at maturity, upon redemption or otherwise;

 

(3)           the failure of any Issuer, Venator or any other Guarantor to comply with any covenant or agreement contained in this Indenture, which default continues for a period of 90 days after Venator or the Issuers receive a written notice specifying the default (or 120 days after

 

47



 

such a notice in the event of a Default under Section 4.03 hereof) (and demanding that such default be remedied) from the Trustee or the Holders of at least 25% of the outstanding principal amount of the Notes (including any Additional Notes subsequently issued under this Indenture) (except in the case of a default with respect to Section 5.01 or 10.04 hereof, which will constitute an Event of Default with such notice requirement but without such passage of time requirement);

 

(4)           the occurrence of any default under any agreement governing indebtedness of Venator, any Issuer or any of their Significant Subsidiaries if that default:

 

(A)          is caused by the failure to pay at final maturity the principal amount of any indebtedness after giving effect to any applicable grace periods and any extensions of time for payment of such indebtedness or; or

 

(B)          results in the acceleration of the final stated maturity of any such indebtedness,

 

and in each case, the aggregate principal amount of such indebtedness unpaid or accelerated aggregates $50.0 million or more and has not been discharged in full or such acceleration has not been rescinded or annulled within 30 days of such final maturity or acceleration;

 

(5)           Venator or either Issuer:

 

(A)          commences a voluntary case,

 

(B)          consents to the entry of an order for relief against it in an involuntary case,

 

(C)          consents to the appointment of a Custodian of it or for all or substantially all of its property,

 

(D)          makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors, or

 

(E)           generally is not paying its debts as they become due and with respect to Venator Finance, has lost its creditworthiness ( crédit ébranlé ); or

 

(F)           commences any bankruptcy, insolvency, liquidation, moratorium, reorganization process or other process under similar laws affecting the rights of creditors in Luxembourg; or

 

(6)           a court of competent jurisdiction enters an order or decree under any Bankruptcy Law that:

 

(A)          is for relief against Venator or any Issuer in an involuntary case;

 

(B)          appoints a Custodian of Venator or any Issuer; or

 

(C)          orders the liquidation of Venator or any Issuer;

 

and the order or decree remains unstayed and in effect for 60 consecutive days; or

 

(7)           the failure of any Note Guarantee by Venator or any Significant Subsidiary to be in full force and effect (other than in accordance with the terms of such Note Guarantee and this

 

48



 

Indenture) or any of the Guarantors denies its liability under its Note Guarantee and such default continues for 10 days.

 

Section 6.02                          Acceleration.

 

In the case of an Event of Default specified in clause (5) or (6) of Section 6.01 hereof occurs and is continuing, then all unpaid principal of, and premium, if any, and accrued and unpaid interest on all of the outstanding Notes will become immediately due and payable without further action or notice. If any other Event of Default occurs and is continuing, then the Trustee by notice in writing to Venator or the Issuers or the Holders of at least 25% in principal amount of outstanding Notes may declare the principal of and accrued interest on all the Notes to be due and payable by notice in writing (the “ Acceleration Notice ”) to Venator or the Issuers and the Trustee, which notice must also specify that it is a “notice of acceleration.” Upon any such declaration of acceleration, the Notes will become immediately due and payable.

 

At any time after a declaration of acceleration with respect to the Notes as described in the preceding paragraph, the Holders of a majority in principal amount of the outstanding Notes may rescind and cancel such declaration and its consequences:

 

(a)           if the rescission would not conflict with any judgment or decree;

 

(b)           if all existing Events of Default have been cured or waived except nonpayment of principal or interest that has become due solely because of the acceleration;

 

(c)           to the extent the payment of such interest is lawful, interest on overdue installments of interest and overdue principal, which has become due otherwise than by such declaration of acceleration, has been paid;

 

(d)           if the Issuers have paid the Trustee all amounts it is owed under this Indenture; and

 

(e)           in the event of the cure or waiver of an Event of Default specified in clause (4) of Section 6.01 hereof; provided that the Trustee shall have received an Officers’ Certificate that such Event of Default has been cured or waived.

 

No such rescission shall affect any subsequent Default or impair any right consequent thereto.

 

Section 6.03                          Other Remedies.

 

If an Event of Default occurs and is continuing, the Trustee may pursue any available remedy to collect the payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on the Notes or to enforce the performance of any provision of the Notes or this Indenture.

 

The Trustee may maintain a proceeding even if it does not possess any of the Notes or does not produce any of them in the proceeding. A delay or omission by the Trustee or any Holder of a Note in exercising any right or remedy accruing upon an Event of Default shall not impair the right or remedy or constitute a waiver of or acquiescence in the Event of Default. All remedies are cumulative to the extent permitted by law.

 

49



 

Section 6.04                          Waiver of Past Defaults.

 

The Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes by written notice to the Trustee may, on behalf of the Holders of all of the Notes waive any existing Default or Event of Default and its consequences hereunder, except a continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on the Notes (including in connection with an offer to purchase); provided , however , that the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes may rescind an acceleration and its consequences, including any related payment default that resulted from such acceleration. Upon any such waiver, such Default shall cease to exist, and any Event of Default arising therefrom shall be deemed to have been cured for every purpose of this Indenture; but no such waiver shall extend to any subsequent or other Default or impair any right consequent thereon.

 

Section 6.05                          Control by Majority.

 

Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes may direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on it. The Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under this Indenture at the request, order or direction of any of the Holders, unless such Holders have offered to the Trustee indemnity and security satisfactory to it. The Trustee may withhold from Holders of the Notes notice of any continuing Default or Event of Default (except a Default or Event of Default relating to the payment of principal, premium or interest) if it determines in good faith that withholding notice is in their interest.

 

Section 6.06                          Limitation on Suits.

 

No Holder of a Note may pursue any remedy with respect to this Indenture or the Notes unless:

 

(1)           such Holder has previously given the Trustee written notice that an Event of Default is continuing;

 

(2)           Holders of at least 25% in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes make a written request to the Trustee to pursue the remedy;

 

(3)           such Holder or Holders offer and, if requested, provide to the Trustee security or indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense;

 

(4)           the Trustee does not pursue such remedy within 60 days after receipt of the request and the offer of security or indemnity; and

 

(5)           during such 60-day period, Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes do not give the Trustee a written direction inconsistent with such request.

 

A Holder of a Note may not use this Indenture to prejudice the rights of another Holder of a Note or to obtain a preference or priority over another Holder of a Note (it being understood that the Trustee does not have an affirmative duty to ascertain whether or not such actions or forbearance are unduly prejudicial to such Holders).

 

50


 

Section 6.07                                                                              Rights of Holders of Notes to Receive Payment.

 

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture, the right of any Holder of a Note to receive payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on the Note, on or after the respective due dates expressed in the Note (including in connection with an offer to purchase), or to bring suit for the enforcement of any such payment on or after such respective dates, shall not be impaired or affected without the consent of such Holder.

 

Section 6.08                                                                              Collection Suit by Trustee.

 

If an Event of Default specified in Section 6.01(1) or (2) hereof occurs and is continuing, the Trustee is authorized to recover judgment in its own name and as trustee of an express trust against the Issuers for the whole amount of principal of, premium on, if any, and interest, if any, remaining unpaid on the Notes and interest on overdue principal and, to the extent lawful, interest and such further amount as shall be sufficient to cover the costs and expenses of collection, including the compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel.

 

Section 6.09                                                                              Trustee May File Proofs of Claim.

 

The Trustee is authorized to file such proofs of claim and other papers or documents as may be necessary or advisable in order to have the claims of the Trustee (including any claim for the compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel) and the Holders of the Notes allowed in any judicial proceedings relative to the Issuers (or any other obligor upon the Notes), its creditors or its property and shall be entitled and empowered to collect, receive and distribute any money or other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and any Custodian in any such judicial proceeding is hereby authorized by each Holder to make such payments to the Trustee, and in the event that the Trustee shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Holders, to pay to the Trustee any amount due to it for the compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 7.07 hereof. To the extent that the payment of any such compensation, expenses, disbursements and advances of the Trustee, its agents and counsel, and any other amounts due the Trustee under Section 7.07 hereof out of the estate in any such proceeding, shall be denied for any reason, payment of the same shall be secured by a lien on, and shall be paid out of, any and all distributions, dividends, money, securities and other properties that the Holders may be entitled to receive in such proceeding whether in liquidation or under any plan of reorganization or arrangement or otherwise. Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to authorize the Trustee to authorize or consent to or accept or adopt on behalf of any Holder any plan of reorganization, arrangement, adjustment or composition affecting the Notes or the rights of any Holder, or to authorize the Trustee to vote in respect of the claim of any Holder in any such proceeding.

 

Section 6.10                                                                              Priorities.

 

If the Trustee collects any money or property pursuant to this Article 6, it shall pay out the money or property in the following order:

 

First :                                     to the Trustee, its agents and attorneys for amounts due under this Indenture, including payment of all compensation, expenses and liabilities incurred, and all advances made, by the Trustee and the costs and expenses of collection;

 

Second :                       to Holders of Notes for amounts due and unpaid on the Notes for principal, premium, if any, and interest ratably, without preference or priority of any kind, according to the

 

51



 

amounts due and payable on the Notes for principal, premium, if any, and interest, respectively; and

 

Third :                                 to the Issuers or to such party as a court of competent jurisdiction shall direct.

 

The Trustee may fix a record date and payment date for any payment to Holders of Notes pursuant to this Section 6.10.

 

Section 6.11                                                                              Undertaking for Costs.

 

In any suit for the enforcement of any right or remedy under this Indenture or in any suit against the Trustee for any action taken or omitted by it as a Trustee, a court in its discretion may require the filing by any party litigant in the suit of an undertaking to pay the costs of the suit, and the court in its discretion may assess reasonable costs, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, against any party litigant in the suit, having due regard to the merits and good faith of the claims or defenses made by the party litigant. This Section 6.11 does not apply to a suit by the Trustee, a suit by a Holder of a Note pursuant to Section 6.07 hereof, or a suit by Holders of more than 10% in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes.

 

ARTICLE 7
TRUSTEE

 

Section 7.01                                                                              Duties of Trustee.

 

(a)                                  If an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Trustee will exercise such of the rights and powers vested in it by this Indenture, and use the same degree of care and skill in its exercise as a prudent person would exercise or use under the circumstances in the conduct of his or her own affairs.

 

(b)                                  Except during the continuance of an Event of Default:

 

(1)                                  the duties of the Trustee will be determined solely by the express provisions of this Indenture and the Trustee need perform only those duties that are specifically set forth in this Indenture and no others, and no implied covenants or obligations shall be read into this Indenture against the Trustee; and

 

(2)                                  in the absence of bad faith on its part, the Trustee may conclusively rely, as to the truth of the statements and the correctness of the opinions expressed therein, upon certificates or opinions furnished to the Trustee and conforming to the requirements of this Indenture. However, the Trustee will examine the certificates and opinions to determine whether or not they conform to the requirements of this Indenture (but need not confirm or investigate the accuracy of mathematical calculations or other facts stated therein).

 

(c)                                   The Trustee may not be relieved from liabilities for its own negligent action, its own negligent failure to act, or its own willful misconduct, except that:

 

(1)                                  this paragraph does not limit the effect of paragraph (b) of this Section 7.01;

 

(2)                                  the Trustee will not be liable for any error of judgment made in good faith by a Responsible Officer, unless it is proved that the Trustee was negligent in ascertaining the pertinent facts; and

 

52



 

(3)                                  the Trustee will not be liable with respect to any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in accordance with a direction received by it pursuant to Section 6.05 hereof.

 

(d)                                  Whether or not therein expressly so provided, every provision of this Indenture that in any way relates to the Trustee is subject to paragraphs (a), (b), and (c) of this Section 7.01.

 

(e)                                   No provision of this Indenture will require the Trustee to expend or risk its own funds or incur any liability. The Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of its rights or powers under this Indenture at the request of any Holders, unless such Holder has offered to the Trustee security and indemnity satisfactory to the Trustee against any loss, liability or expense.

 

(f)                                    The Trustee will not be liable for interest on any money received by it except as the Trustee may agree in writing with the Issuers. Money held in trust by the Trustee need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law.

 

(g)                                   Every provision of this Indenture relating to the conduct or affecting the liability of or affording protection to the Trustee shall be subject to the provisions of this Section 7.01.

 

Section 7.02                                                                              Rights of Trustee.

 

(a)                                  The Trustee may conclusively rely upon any document believed by it to be genuine and to have been signed or presented by the proper Person. The Trustee need not investigate any fact or matter stated in the document.

 

(b)                                  Before the Trustee acts or refrains from acting, it may require an Officers’ Certificate or an Opinion of Counsel or both. The Trustee will not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith in reliance on such Officers’ Certificate or Opinion of Counsel. The Trustee may consult with counsel of its selection and the advice of such counsel or any Opinion of Counsel will be full and complete authorization and protection from liability in respect of any action taken, suffered or omitted by it hereunder in good faith and in reliance thereon.

 

(c)                                   The Trustee may act through its attorneys and agents and will not be responsible for the misconduct or negligence of any agent appointed with due care.

 

(d)                                  The Trustee will not be liable for any action it takes or omits to take in good faith that it believes to be authorized or within the rights or powers conferred upon it by this Indenture.

 

(e)                                   Unless otherwise specifically provided in this Indenture, any demand, request, direction or notice from the Issuers will be sufficient if signed by an Officer of each of the Issuers.

 

(f)                                    The Trustee will be under no obligation to exercise any of the rights or powers vested in it by this Indenture at the request or direction of any of the Holders unless such Holders have offered to the Trustee indemnity or security satisfactory to the Trustee against the losses, liabilities and expenses that might be incurred by it in compliance with such request or direction.

 

(g)                                   The rights, privileges, protections, immunities and benefits given to the Trustee under this Indenture, including, without limitation, its right to be indemnified, are also given to and shall be enforceable by (i) the Trustee in each of its capacities hereunder, (ii) to each agent of the Trustee, (iii) to each Agent, (iv) Notes Custodian, and (v) each other Person, employed to act hereunder.  Therefore, for the avoidance of doubt in any interpretation of a relevant section of this Indenture that relates to the

 

53



 

rights, privileges, protections, immunities and benefits given to the Trustee, such section shall be construed as including each agent, custodian and each other Person employed to act hereunder.

 

(h)                                  The Trustee shall not be deemed to have knowledge of any fact or matter unless such fact or matter is known to a Responsible Officer of the Trustee.

 

(i)                                      Whenever in the administration of this Indenture or the Notes the Trustee shall deem it desirable that a matter be proved or established prior to taking, suffering or omitting any action hereunder or thereunder, the Trustee (unless other evidence be herein specifically prescribed) may, in the absence of bad faith or willful misconduct on its part, conclusively rely upon an Officers’ Certificate.

 

(j)                                     The Trustee shall not be bound to make any investigation into the facts or matters stated in any resolution, certificate, statement, instrument, report, notice, request, direction, consent, order, bond, debenture, coupon or other paper or document, but the Trustee, in its discretion, may make such further inquiry or investigation into such facts or matters as it may see fit, and, if the Trustee shall determine to make such further inquiry or investigation, it shall be entitled to examine, during business hours and upon reasonable notice, the books, records and premises of Venator and the Restricted Subsidiaries, personally or by agent or attorney at the sole cost of the Issuers and shall incur no liability or additional liability of any kind by reason of such inquiry or investigation.

 

(k)                                  The Trustee shall not be required to give any bond or surety in respect of the performance of its powers and duties hereunder.

 

(l)                                      The Trustee may request that the Issuers deliver an Officers’ Certificate setting forth the names of individuals and/or titles of officers authorized at such time to take specified actions pursuant to this Indenture or the Notes.

 

(m)                              In no event shall the Trustee be liable to any Person for special, punitive, indirect, consequential or incidental loss or damage of any kind whatsoever (including, but not limited to, lost profits), even if the Trustee has been advised of the likelihood of such loss or damage.

 

(n)                                  The permissive rights of the Trustee to do things enumerated in this Indenture shall not be construed as a duty unless so specified herein.

 

Section 7.03                                                                              Individual Rights of Trustee.

 

The Trustee in its individual or any other capacity may become the owner or pledgee of Notes and may otherwise deal with the Issuers or any affiliate of the Issuers with the same rights it would have if it were not Trustee. However, in the event that the Trustee acquires any conflicting interest it must eliminate such conflict within 90 days, or resign. Any Agent may do the same with like rights and duties. The Trustee is also subject to Sections 7.10 and 7.11 hereof.

 

Section 7.04                                                                              Trustee’s Disclaimer.

 

The Trustee will not be responsible for and makes no representation as to the validity or adequacy of this Indenture or the Notes, it shall not be accountable for the Issuers’ use of the proceeds from the Notes or any money paid to the Issuers or upon the Issuers’ direction under any provision of this Indenture, it will not be responsible for the use or application of any money received by any Paying Agent other than the Trustee, and it will not be responsible for any statement or recital herein or any statement in the Notes or any other document in connection with the sale of the Notes or pursuant to this Indenture other than its certificate of authentication.

 

54



 

Section 7.05                                                                              Notice of Defaults.

 

If a Default or Event of Default occurs and is continuing and if it is actually known to a Responsible Officer of the Trustee, the Trustee will send to Holders of Notes a notice of the Default or Event of Default within the later of 90 days after it occurs or promptly after a Responsible Officer of the Trustee receives written notice of such event.  Except in the case of a Default or Event of Default in payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on, any Note, the Trustee may withhold the notice if and so long as it in good faith determines that withholding the notice is in the interests of the Holders of the Notes.

 

Section 7.06                                                                              [Reserved].

 

Section 7.07                                                                              Compensation and Indemnity.

 

(a)                                  The Issuers will pay to the Trustee from time to time such compensation for its acceptance of this Indenture and services hereunder as mutually agreed to in writing.  The Trustee’s compensation will not be limited by any law on compensation of a trustee of an express trust.  The Issuers will reimburse the Trustee promptly upon request for all reasonable disbursements, advances and expenses incurred or made by it in addition to the compensation for its services.  Such expenses will include the reasonable compensation, disbursements and expenses of the Trustee’s agents and counsel.

 

(b)                                  The Issuers and the Guarantors will, jointly and severally, indemnify the Trustee against any and all losses, liabilities or expenses incurred by it arising out of or in connection with the acceptance or administration of its duties under this Indenture, including the costs and expenses of enforcing this Indenture against the Issuers and the Guarantors (including this Section 7.07) and defending itself against any claim (whether asserted by the Issuers, the Guarantors, any Holder or any other Person) or liability in connection with the exercise or performance of any of its powers or duties hereunder, except to the extent any such loss, liability or expense may be directly attributable to its negligence or willful misconduct, as determined by a final, non-appealable order of a court of competent jurisdiction.  The Trustee will notify the Issuers promptly of any claim for which it may seek indemnity.  Failure by the Trustee to so notify the Issuers will not relieve the Issuers or any of the Guarantors of their obligations hereunder.  The Issuers or such Guarantor will defend the claim and the Trustee will cooperate in the defense.  The Trustee may have separate counsel and the Issuers will pay the reasonable fees and expenses of such counsel.  Neither the Issuers nor any Guarantor need pay for any settlement made without its consent, which consent will not be unreasonably withheld.

 

(c)                                   The obligations of the Issuers and the Guarantors under this Section 7.07 will survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture and the resignation and removal of the Trustee.

 

(d)                                  To secure the Issuers’ and the Guarantors’ payment obligations in this Section 7.07, the Trustee will have a lien prior to the Notes on all money or property held or collected by the Trustee, except that held in trust to pay principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on, particular Notes. Such lien will survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture.

 

(e)                                   When the Trustee incurs expenses or renders services after an Event of Default specified in clause (5) or (6) of Section 6.01 hereof occurs, the expenses and the compensation for the services (including the fees and expenses of its agents and counsel) are intended to constitute expenses of administration under any Bankruptcy Law.

 

55



 

Section 7.08                                                                              Replacement of Trustee.

 

(a)                                  A resignation or removal of the Trustee and appointment of a successor Trustee will become effective only upon the successor Trustee’s acceptance of appointment as provided in this Section 7.08.

 

(b)                                  The Trustee may resign in writing at any time and be discharged from the trust hereby created by so notifying the Issuers. The Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes may remove the Trustee by so notifying the Trustee and the Issuers in writing. The Issuers may remove the Trustee if:

 

(1)                                  the Trustee fails to comply with Section 7.10 hereof;

 

(2)                                  the Trustee is adjudged a bankrupt or an insolvent or an order for relief is entered with respect to the Trustee under any Bankruptcy Law;

 

(3)                                  a custodian or public officer takes charge of the Trustee or its property; or

 

(4)                                  the Trustee becomes incapable of acting.

 

(c)                                   If the Trustee resigns or is removed or if a vacancy exists in the office of Trustee for any reason, the Issuers will promptly appoint a successor Trustee. Within one year after the successor Trustee takes office, the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes may appoint a successor Trustee to replace the successor Trustee appointed by the Issuers.

 

(d)                                  If a successor Trustee does not take office within 60 days after the retiring Trustee resigns or is removed, the retiring Trustee, the Issuers, or the Holders of at least 10% in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes may at the expense of the Issuers, petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the appointment of a successor Trustee.

 

(e)                                   If the Trustee, after written request by any Holder who has been a Holder for at least six months, fails to comply with Section 7.10 hereof, such Holder may petition any court of competent jurisdiction for the removal of the Trustee and the appointment of a successor Trustee.

 

(f)                                    A successor Trustee will deliver a written acceptance of its appointment to the retiring Trustee and to the Issuers. Thereupon, the resignation or removal of the retiring Trustee will become effective, and the successor Trustee will have all the rights, powers and duties of the Trustee under this Indenture. The successor Trustee will send a notice of its succession to Holders. The retiring Trustee will promptly transfer all property held by it as Trustee to the successor Trustee; provided that all sums owing to the Trustee hereunder have been paid and subject to the lien provided for in Section 7.07 hereof. Notwithstanding replacement of the Trustee pursuant to this Section 7.08, the Issuers’ obligations under Section 7.07 hereof will continue for the benefit of the retiring Trustee.

 

Section 7.09                                                                              Successor Trustee by Merger, etc.

 

If the Trustee consolidates, merges or converts into, or transfers all or substantially all of its corporate trust business to, another corporation, the successor corporation without any further act will be the successor Trustee.

 

56



 

Section 7.10                                                                              Eligibility; Disqualification.

 

There will at all times be a Trustee hereunder that is a corporation organized and doing business under the laws of the United States of America or of any state thereof that is authorized under such laws to exercise corporate trustee power, that is subject to supervision or examination by federal or state authorities and that has a combined capital and surplus of at least $100.0 million as set forth in its most recent published annual report of condition.

 

ARTICLE 8
LEGAL DEFEASANCE AND COVENANT DEFEASANCE

 

Section 8.01                                                                              Option to Effect Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance.

 

The Issuers may, at their option and at any time, evidenced by a resolution of each of their Boards of Directors set forth in an Officers’ Certificate, elect to have either Section 8.02 or 8.03 hereof be applied to all outstanding Notes upon compliance with the conditions set forth below in this Article 8.

 

Section 8.02                                                                              Legal Defeasance and Discharge.

 

Upon the Issuers’ exercise under Section 8.01 hereof of the option applicable to this Section 8.02, each Issuer and each of the Guarantors will, subject to the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Section 8.04 hereof, be deemed to have been discharged from their obligations with respect to all outstanding Notes (including the Note Guarantees) on the date the conditions set forth below are satisfied (hereinafter, “ Legal Defeasance ”). For this purpose, Legal Defeasance means that the Issuers and the Guarantors will be deemed to have paid and discharged the entire indebtedness represented by the outstanding Notes (including the Note Guarantees), which will thereafter be deemed to be “outstanding” only for the purposes of Section 8.05 hereof and the other Sections of this Indenture referred to in clauses (1) and (2) below, and to have satisfied all their other obligations under such Notes, the Note Guarantees and this Indenture (and the Trustee, on written request of and at the expense of the Issuers, shall execute proper instruments acknowledging the same), except for the following provisions which will survive until otherwise terminated or discharged hereunder:

 

(1)                                  the rights of Holders of outstanding Notes to receive payments in respect of the principal of, premium on, if any, and interest, if any, on such Notes when such payments are due from the trust referred to in Section 8.04 hereof;

 

(2)                                  the Issuers’ obligations with respect to such Notes under Article 2 and 4.02 hereof;

 

(3)                                  the rights, powers, trusts, duties and immunities of the Trustee hereunder and the Issuers’ obligations in connection therewith; and

 

(4)                                  this Article 8, as it relates to Legal Defeasance.

 

Subject to compliance with this Article 8, the Issuers may exercise their option under this Section 8.02 notwithstanding the prior exercise of its option under Section 8.03 hereof.

 

Section 8.03                                                                              Covenant Defeasance.

 

Upon the Issuers’ exercise under Section 8.01 hereof of the option applicable to this Section 8.03, each Issuer and each of the Guarantors will, subject to the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in

 

57



 

Section 8.04 hereof, be released from each of their obligations under the covenants contained in Sections 4.06, 4.07 and 4.08 hereof and Section 5.01 hereof with respect to the outstanding Notes on and after the date the conditions set forth in Section 8.04 hereof are satisfied (hereinafter, “ Covenant Defeasance ”), and the Notes will thereafter be deemed not “outstanding” for the purposes of any direction, waiver, consent or declaration or act of Holders (and the consequences of any thereof) in connection with such covenants, but will continue to be deemed “outstanding” for all other purposes hereunder (it being understood that such Notes will not be deemed outstanding for accounting purposes). For this purpose, Covenant Defeasance means that, with respect to the outstanding Notes and Note Guarantees, the Issuers and the Guarantors may omit to comply with and will have no liability in respect of any term, condition or limitation set forth in any such covenant, whether directly or indirectly, by reason of any reference elsewhere herein to any such covenant or by reason of any reference in any such covenant to any other provision herein or in any other document and such omission to comply will not constitute a Default or an Event of Default under Section 6.01 hereof, but, except as specified above, the remainder of this Indenture and such Notes and Note Guarantees will be unaffected thereby. In addition, upon the Issuers’ exercise under Section 8.01 hereof of the option applicable to this Section 8.03, subject to the satisfaction of the conditions set forth in Section 8.04 hereof, Sections 6.01(3), (4), and (7) hereof will not constitute Events of Default.

 

Section 8.04                                                                              Conditions to Legal or Covenant Defeasance.

 

In order to exercise either Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance under either Section 8.02 or 8.03 hereof:

 

(1)                                  The Issuers must irrevocably deposit with the Trustee, in trust, for the benefit of the Holders, cash in U.S. dollars or non-callable U.S. government obligations, in such amounts as will be sufficient, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants, to pay the principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the Notes on the stated date for payment thereof or on an applicable redemption date;

 

(2)                                  in the case of an election under Section 8.02 hereof, the Issuers shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel stating that:

 

(A)                                the Issuers have received from, or there has been published by, the Internal Revenue Service a ruling; or

 

(B)                                since the Issue Date, there has been a change in the applicable U.S. federal income tax law,

 

in either case to the effect that, and based thereon such Opinion of Counsel shall state that, the Holders of the outstanding Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of such Legal Defeasance and will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the same amounts, in the same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such Legal Defeasance had not occurred; provided , however , such Opinion of Counsel shall not be required if all the Notes will become due and payable on the maturity date within one year or are to be called for redemption within one year under arrangements satisfactory to the Trustee;

 

(3)                                  in the case of an election under Section 8.03 hereof, the Issuers shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel stating that the Holders of the outstanding Notes will not recognize income, gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of such Covenant Defeasance and will be subject to U.S. federal income tax on the same amounts, in the

 

58



 

same manner and at the same times as would have been the case if such Covenant Defeasance had not occurred;

 

(4)                                  no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and is continuing on the date of such deposit (other than any default arising from the substantially contemporaneous incurrence of indebtedness to fund the deposit described above in clause (1));

 

(5)                                  such Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance shall not result in a breach or violation of, or constitute a default under this Indenture (other than any default arising from the substantially contemporaneous incurrence of indebtedness to fund the deposit described above in clause (1)) or any other material agreement or instrument to which Venator, the Issuers or any of their Subsidiaries is a party or by which Venator, the Issuers or any of their Subsidiaries is bound;

 

(6)                                  the Issuers must deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate stating that the deposit was not made by the Issuers with the intent of defeating, hindering, delaying or defrauding any creditors of the Issuers or others;

 

(7)                                  the Issuers must deliver to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel, each stating that all conditions precedent provided for or relating to the Legal Defeasance or the Covenant Defeasance have been complied with; and

 

(8)                                  the Issuers shall have delivered to the Trustee an Opinion of Counsel stating that either (i) the Issuers have assigned all their ownership interest in the trust funds to the Trustee (or such other entity directed, designated and appointed by the Trustee as co-Trustee for this purpose) or (ii) the Trustee has a valid perfected security interest in the trust funds.

 

Section 8.05                                                                              Cash or Non-Callable U.S. Government Obligations to be Held in Trust; Other Miscellaneous Provisions.

 

Subject to Section 8.06 hereof, all cash or non-callable U.S. government obligations (including the proceeds thereof) deposited with the Trustee pursuant to Section 8.04 hereof in respect of the outstanding Notes will be held in trust and applied by the Trustee, in accordance with the provisions of such Notes and this Indenture, to the payment, either directly or through any Paying Agent (including Venator, either Issuer or any of their Subsidiaries acting as Paying Agent) as the Trustee may determine, to the Holders of such Notes of all sums due and to become due thereon in respect of principal, premium, if any, and interest, if any, but such money need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law.

 

The Issuers will pay and indemnify the Trustee against any tax, fee or other charge imposed on or assessed against the cash or non-callable U.S. government obligations deposited pursuant to Section 8.04 hereof or the principal and interest received in respect thereof other than any such tax, fee or other charge which by law is for the account of the Holders of the outstanding Notes.

 

Notwithstanding anything in this Article 8 to the contrary, the Trustee will deliver or pay to the Issuers from time to time upon the written request of the Issuers any cash or non-callable U.S. government obligations held by it as provided in Section 8.04 hereof which, in the opinion of a nationally recognized firm of independent public accountants expressed in a written certification thereof delivered to the Trustee (which may be the opinion delivered under Section 8.04(1) hereof), are in excess of the amount thereof that would then be required to be deposited to effect an equivalent Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance.

 

59



 

Section 8.06                                                                              Repayment to Issuers.

 

Subject to unclaimed property laws, any cash deposited with the Trustee or any Paying Agent, or then held by the Issuers, in trust for the payment of the principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on any Note and remaining unclaimed for one year after such principal, premium, if any, or interest has become due and payable shall be paid to the Issuers on their request or (if then held by the Issuers) will be discharged from such trust; and the Holder of such Note will thereafter be permitted to look only to the Issuers for payment thereof, and all liability of the Trustee or such Paying Agent with respect to such trust money, and all liability of the Issuers as trustee thereof, will thereupon cease.

 

Section 8.07                                                                              Reinstatement.

 

If the Trustee or Paying Agent is unable to apply any U.S. dollars or non-callable U.S. government obligations in accordance with Section 8.02 or 8.03 hereof, as the case may be, by reason of any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting such application, then the Issuers’ and the Guarantors’ obligations under this Indenture and the Notes and the Note Guarantees will be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had occurred pursuant to Section 8.02 or 8.03 hereof until such time as the Trustee or Paying Agent is permitted to apply all such money in accordance with Section 8.02 or 8.03 hereof, as the case may be; provided , however , that, if the Issuers makes any payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest, if any, on, any Note following the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuers will be subrogated to the rights of the Holders of such Notes to receive such payment from the money held by the Trustee or Paying Agent.

 

ARTICLE 9
AMENDMENT, SUPPLEMENT AND WAIVER

 

Section 9.01                                                                              Without Consent of Holders of Notes.

 

Notwithstanding Section 9.02 of this Indenture, without the consent of any Holder of Notes, the Issuers, the Guarantors and the Trustee may amend or supplement this Indenture, the Notes or the Note Guarantees to:

 

(1)                                  cure any ambiguities, defect or inconsistency;

 

(2)                                  provide for the assumption of any Issuer’s or Guarantor’s obligations to Holders of Notes in the case of a merger or consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of such Issuer’s or Guarantor’s assets in accordance with the requirements of Article 5 hereof or Section 10.04 hereof, as applicable;

 

(3)                                  provide for uncertificated Notes in addition to or in place of certificated Notes (provided, that the uncertificated notes are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code);

 

(4)                                  add any Person as a Guarantor of the Notes or secure the Notes or the Note Guarantees;

 

(5)                                  to comply with the rules of any applicable Depositary;

 

(6)                                  evidence and provide for the acceptance of an appointment under this Indenture of a successor Trustee; provided that the successor Trustee is otherwise qualified and eligible to act as such under the terms of this Indenture;

 

60


 

(7)                                  make any change that would provide any additional rights or benefits to the Holders of Notes or that does not adversely affect in any material respect the legal rights under this Indenture of any such Holder; or

 

(8)                                  conform this Indenture or the Notes to the descriptions thereof set forth in the “Description of Notes” section of the Offering Memorandum to the extent that the Trustee has received an Officers’ Certificate stating that such text constitutes an unintended conflict with the corresponding provision in such “Description of Notes.”

 

Upon the request of the Issuers accompanied by resolutions of each of their Boards of Directors authorizing the execution of any such amended or supplemental indenture, and upon receipt by the Trustee of the documents described in Section 7.02 hereof, the Trustee will join with the Issuers and the Guarantors in the execution of any amended or supplemental indenture authorized or permitted by the terms of this Indenture and to make any further appropriate agreements and stipulations that may be therein contained, but the Trustee will not be obligated to enter into such amended or supplemental indenture that affects its own rights, duties, liabilities or immunities under this Indenture or otherwise.

 

Section 9.02                                                                              With Consent of Holders of Notes.

 

Except as provided below in this Section 9.02, the Issuers and the Trustee may amend or supplement this Indenture and the Notes and the Note Guarantees with the consent of the Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes (including, without limitation, Additional Notes, if any) voting as a single class (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for, or purchase of, the Notes), and, subject to Sections 6.04 and 6.07 hereof, any existing Default or Event of Default (other than a Default or Event of Default in the payment of the principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on the Notes, except a payment default resulting from an acceleration that has been rescinded) or compliance with any provision of this Indenture or the Notes or the Note Guarantees may be waived with the consent of the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes (including, without limitation, Additional Notes, if any) voting as a single class (including, without limitation, consents obtained in connection with a tender offer or exchange offer for, or purchase of, the Notes). Section 2.08 hereof shall determine which Notes are considered to be “outstanding” for purposes of this Section 9.02.

 

Upon the request of the Issuers accompanied by resolutions of their Boards of Directors authorizing the execution of any such amended or supplemental indenture, and upon the filing with the Trustee of evidence satisfactory to the Trustee of the consent of the Holders of Notes as aforesaid, and upon receipt by the Trustee of the documents described in Section 7.02 hereof, the Trustee will join with the Issuers and the Guarantors in the execution of such amended or supplemental indenture unless such amended or supplemental indenture directly affects the Trustee’s own rights, duties or immunities under this Indenture or otherwise, in which case the Trustee may in its discretion, but will not be obligated to, enter into such amended or supplemental indenture.

 

It is not necessary for the consent of the Holders of Notes under this Section 9.02 to approve the particular form of any proposed amendment, supplement or waiver, but it is sufficient if such consent approves the substance thereof.

 

After an amendment, supplement or waiver under this Section 9.02 becomes effective, the Issuers will send to the Holders of Notes affected thereby a notice briefly describing the amendment, supplement or waiver. Any failure of the Issuers to send such notice, or any defect therein, will not, however, in any way impair or affect the validity of any such amended or supplemental indenture or waiver. Subject to Sections 6.04 and 6.07 hereof, the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the Notes then

 

61



 

outstanding voting as a single class may waive compliance in a particular instance by the Issuers with any provision of this Indenture, the Notes or the Note Guarantees. However, without the consent of each Holder affected, an amendment, supplement or waiver under this Section 9.02 may not (with respect to any Notes held by a non-consenting Holder):

 

(1)                                  reduce the amount of Notes whose Holders must consent to an amendment;

 

(2)                                  reduce the rate of or change the time for payment of interest, including defaulted interest, on any Note;

 

(3)                                  reduce the principal of or change the fixed maturity of any Note or change the date on which the Notes may be subject to redemption or repurchase (other than by amending the provisions of Section 4.10 hereof), or reduce the redemption or repurchase price for such Notes;

 

(4)                                  make any Note payable in money other than that stated in the Notes;

 

(5)                                  make any change in the provisions of this Indenture the rights of Holders of Notes to receive payments of principal and interest on the Notes, or permitting Holders of a majority in principal amount of such Notes to waive Defaults or Events of Default;

 

(6)                                  after a Change of Control Repurchase Event has occurred, amend, change or modify in any material respect the obligation of the Issuers to make and complete a Change of Control Offer with respect to such Change of Control Repurchase Event;

 

(7)                                  release any Guarantor from any of its obligations under its Note Guarantee or this Indenture, except in accordance with the terms of this Indenture;

 

(8)                                  make the Notes or any Note Guarantee subordinated in right of payment to other obligations; or

 

(9)                                  make any change in the Escrow Agreement that would adversely affect the Holders in any material respect.

 

Section 9.03                                                                              [Reserved].

 

Section 9.04                                                                              Revocation and Effect of Consents.

 

Until an amendment, supplement or waiver becomes effective, a consent to it by a Holder of a Note is a continuing consent by the Holder of a Note and every subsequent Holder of a Note or portion of a Note that evidences the same debt as the consenting Holder’s Note, even if notation of the consent is not made on any Note. However, any such Holder of a Note or subsequent Holder of a Note may revoke the consent as to its Note if the Trustee receives written notice of revocation before the date the amendment, supplement or waiver becomes effective. An amendment, supplement or waiver becomes effective in accordance with its terms and thereafter binds every Holder.

 

Section 9.05                                                                              Notation on or Exchange of Notes.

 

The Trustee at the request of the Issuers may cause the Notes Custodian to place an appropriate notation about an amendment, supplement or waiver on any Note thereafter authenticated. The Issuers in exchange for all Notes may issue and the Trustee (or Authenticating Agent, if applicable) shall, upon

 

62



 

receipt of an Authentication Order, authenticate new Notes that reflect the amendment, supplement or waiver.

 

Failure to make the appropriate notation or issue a new Note will not affect the validity and effect of such amendment, supplement or waiver.

 

Section 9.06                                                                              Trustee to Sign Amendments, etc.

 

The Trustee will sign any amended or supplemental indenture authorized pursuant to this Article 9 if the amendment or supplement does not adversely affect the rights, duties, liabilities or immunities of the Trustee. An Issuer may not sign an amended or supplemental indenture until its Board of Directors approves it. In executing any amended or supplemental indenture, the Trustee shall receive and (subject to Section 7.01 hereof) will be fully protected in conclusively relying upon, in addition to the documents required by Section 12.04 hereof, an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that the execution of such amended or supplemental indenture is authorized or permitted by this Indenture and that such amended or supplemental indenture is the legal, valid and binding obligation of the Issuers, enforceable against the Issuers in accordance with its terms.

 

ARTICLE 10
NOTE GUARANTEES

 

Section 10.01                                                                       Guarantee.

 

(a)                                  Subject to this Article 10, each of the Guarantors hereby, jointly and severally, unconditionally guarantees to each Holder of a Note authenticated and delivered by the Trustee and to the Trustee and its successors and assigns, irrespective of the validity and enforceability of this Indenture, the Notes or the obligations of the Issuers hereunder or thereunder, that:

 

(1)                                  the principal of, premium, if any, on, and interest on the Notes will be promptly paid in full when due, whether at maturity, by acceleration, redemption or otherwise, and interest on the overdue principal of, premium on, if any, and interest on the Notes, if lawful, and all other obligations of the Issuers to the Holders or the Trustee hereunder or thereunder will be promptly paid in full or performed, all in accordance with the terms hereof and thereof; and

 

(2)                                  in case of any extension of time of payment or renewal of any Notes or any of such other obligations, that same will be promptly paid in full when due or performed in accordance with the terms of the extension or renewal, whether at stated maturity, by acceleration or otherwise.

 

Failing payment when due of any amount so guaranteed or any performance so guaranteed for whatever reason, the Guarantors will be jointly and severally obligated to pay the same immediately. Each Guarantor agrees that this is a guarantee of payment and not a guarantee of collection.

 

(b)                                  The Guarantors hereby agree that their obligations hereunder are unconditional, irrespective of the validity, regularity or enforceability of the Notes or this Indenture, the absence of any action to enforce the same, any waiver or consent by any Holder of the Notes with respect to any provisions hereof or thereof, the recovery of any judgment against the Issuers, any action to enforce the same or any other circumstance which might otherwise constitute a legal or equitable discharge or defense of a guarantor. Each Guarantor hereby waives diligence, presentment, demand of payment, filing of claims with a court in the event of insolvency or bankruptcy of either Issuer, any right to require a proceeding first against an

 

63



 

Issuer, protest, notice and all demands whatsoever and covenant that this Note Guarantee will not be discharged except by complete performance of the obligations contained in the Notes and this Indenture.

 

(c)                                   If any Holder or the Trustee is required by any court or otherwise to return to the Issuers, the Guarantors or any custodian, trustee, liquidator or other similar official acting in relation to either an Issuer or a Guarantor, any amount paid by either to the Trustee or such Holder, this Note Guarantee, to the extent theretofore discharged, will be reinstated in full force and effect.

 

(d)                                  Each Guarantor agrees that it will not be entitled to any right of subrogation in relation to the Holders in respect of any obligations guaranteed hereby until payment in full of all obligations guaranteed hereby. Each Guarantor further agrees that, as between the Guarantors, on the one hand, and the Holders and the Trustee, on the other hand, (1) the maturity of the obligations guaranteed hereby may be accelerated as provided in Article 6 hereof for the purposes of this Note Guarantee, notwithstanding any stay, injunction or other prohibition preventing such acceleration in respect of the obligations guaranteed hereby, and (2) in the event of any declaration of acceleration of such obligations as provided in Article 6 hereof, such obligations (whether or not due and payable) will forthwith become due and payable by the Guarantors for the purpose of this Note Guarantee. The Guarantors will have the right to seek contribution from any non-paying Guarantor so long as the exercise of such right does not impair the rights of the Holders under the Note Guarantee.

 

(e)                                   Each Guarantor (other than a Finnish Guarantor) acknowledges that it will receive direct and indirect benefits from the financing arrangements contemplated by this Indenture and that the guarantee and waivers made by it pursuant to its Note Guarantee are knowingly made in contemplation of such benefits. Each Finnish Guarantor acknowledges that entering into this Indenture is in its best interests and is based on commercial grounds.

 

Section 10.02                                                                       Limitation on Guarantor Liability.

 

(a)                                  Each Guarantor, and by its acceptance of Notes, each Holder, hereby confirms that it is the intention of all such parties that the Note Guarantee of such Guarantor not constitute a fraudulent transfer or conveyance for purposes of Bankruptcy Law, the Uniform Fraudulent Conveyance Act, the Uniform Fraudulent Transfer Act or any similar federal or state law to the extent applicable to any Note Guarantee. To effectuate the foregoing intention, the Trustee, the Holders and the Guarantors hereby irrevocably agree that the obligations of such Guarantor will be limited to the maximum amount that will, after giving effect to such maximum amount and all other contingent and fixed liabilities of such Guarantor that are relevant under such laws, and after giving effect to any collections from, rights to receive contribution from or payments made by or on behalf of any other Guarantor in respect of the obligations of such other Guarantor under this Article 10, result in the obligations of such Guarantor under its Note Guarantee not constituting a fraudulent transfer or conveyance.

 

(b)                                  Limitation on Note Guarantees by Spanish Guarantors . Any guarantee, indemnity, obligation and/or liability granted, incurred, undertaken, assumed or otherwise agreed by any Guarantor incorporated in Spain shall be limited to the following:

 

(1)                                  shall not extend to any obligation to the extent that the same would constitute unlawful financial assistance within the meaning of articles 143 and 150 of the Spanish Companies Act (Real Decreto Legislativo 1/2010 de 2 de Julio, por el que se aprueba el texto refundido de la Ley de Sociedades de Capital); and

 

64



 

(2)                                  if the Spanish Guarantor is incorporated as a limited liability company (“sociedad de responsabilidad limitada”), restrictions contained in the Spanish Companies Act shall be applicable.

 

(c)                                   Limitation on Note Guarantees by French Guarantors . Each Guarantor incorporated under the laws of France (hereafter, a “ French Guarantor ”) and, by its acceptance of Notes, each Holder, hereby confirms the following:

 

(1)                                  the obligations and liabilities of any French Guarantor under this Indenture, and in particular under the Notes and the Note Guarantee, shall not extend to include any obligations or liabilities which if incurred would constitute a breach of the financial assistance prohibitions within the meaning of article L. 225-216 of the French Code de commerce and/or would constitute a misuse of corporate assets within the meaning of article L. 241-3, L. 242-6 or L. 244-1 of the French Code de commerce or any other law or regulations having the same effect, as interpreted by French courts.

 

(2)                                  the obligations and liabilities of each French Guarantor under this Indenture for the payment obligations under the Notes and the Note Guarantee of the Issuer or any other Guarantor which is not a direct or indirect Subsidiary of such French Guarantor, shall be limited at any time to an amount equal to the aggregate of the proceeds of the Notes to the extent directly or indirectly on-lent by the Issuer or such other Guarantor to that French Guarantor or any of its Subsidiaries under intercompany loans (including pursuant to cash pooling arrangements) or similar arrangements and outstanding on the date a payment is requested to be made by such French Guarantor under this Note Guarantee (the “ Maximum Guaranteed Amount ”), it being specified that notwithstanding any other provisions of this Indenture, any payment made by such French Guarantor under this Note Guarantee in respect of the payment obligations of the Issuer or any other Guarantor shall immediately reduce pro tanto the outstanding amount of the intra-group loans, or any sums, due by such French Guarantor under such intra-group loan (including pursuant to cash pooling arrangements) or similar arrangements referred to above.

 

(3)                                  the obligations and liabilities of each French Guarantor under this Indenture for the payment obligations under the Notes and the Note Guarantee of its direct or indirect Subsidiaries which are or become Guarantor from time to time under this Indenture or any Supplemental Indenture shall be limited to all amounts incurred by such Subsidiaries which are French Guarantors; and

 

(4)                                  for the avoidance of doubt, any payment made by a French Guarantor under paragraph (ii) above shall reduce the Maximum Guaranteed Amount.

 

(5)                                  it is acknowledged that no French Guarantor is acting jointly and severally with the other Guarantors and no French Guarantor shall therefore be considered as “ co-débiteur solidaire ” as to its obligations pursuant to the Guarantee given pursuant therewith.

 

For the purpose of this paragraph (c), “Subsidiary” means, in relation to any company, another company which is controlled by it within the meaning of articles L.233-3 of the French Code de commerce .

 

(d)                                  Limitation on Note Guarantees by German Guarantors. For the purpose of this Section 10.2 (d):

 

65



 

Any reference to “ the date of this Indenture ” shall, with regard to any Guarantor acceding after the date of this Indenture which is a German Guarantor be construed as a reference to the date of accession of such Guarantor.

 

German Guarantor ” means a German GmbH Guarantor or a German GmbH & Co. KG Guarantor;

 

German GmbH Guarantor ” means any Guarantor incorporated in the Federal Republic of Germany as a private limited company “ Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung ”;

 

German GmbH & Co. KG Guarantor ” means any Guarantor established in the Federal Republic of Germany as a limited partnership “ Kommanditgesellschaft ” with a private limited company “ Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung ” as its sole general partner “ persönlich haftender Gesellschafter ”;

 

Guarantee Obligations ” means the obligations of any German Guarantor granted or incurred under this Indenture; and

 

Net Assets ” means, in relation to a German GmbH Guarantor or a German GmbH & Co. KG Guarantor’s general partner “ persönlich haftender Gesellschafter ”, the amount of its assets (section 266 sub-section 2 A, B, C, D and E HGB and including, for the avoidance of doubt, any claim for consideration or return “ Gegenleistungs- oder Rückgewähranspruch ” of the relevant German Guarantor against the Upstream Affiliate whose obligations are secured by the relevant Guarantee Obligations) less (i) the aggregate of its liabilities (section 266 sub-section 3 B, C (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any Guarantee Obligations), D and E HGB) and (ii) its stated share capital “ Stammkapital ”.

 

(1)                                  Subject to Sections 10.2 (d)(2) to 10.2 (d)(4), the enforcement of the Guarantee Obligations shall be limited in relation to German Guarantors as follows:

 

(a)                                  Each Secured Party agrees not to enforce the Guarantee Obligations if and to the extent:

 

(A)                                the Guarantee Obligations relate to any obligations of, or amounts owed by, an Affiliate of the relevant German Guarantor (other than the relevant German Guarantor’s Subsidiaries provided that the relevant obligations or amounts owed by the relevant Subsidiary are or are based upon own liabilities of such Subsidiary but not upon Guarantee Obligations (each an “ Upstream Affiliate ”); and

 

(B)                                the relevant German Guarantor’s Net Assets, or in the case of a German GmbH & Co. KG Guarantor, the Net Assets of its general partner “ persönlich haftender Gesellschafter ”, would have been, at the date of this Indenture, reduced to zero or would have been reduced below zero as a result of any payment in relation to the Guarantee Obligations (such circumstances constituting a “ Share Capital Impairment ”).

 

(b)                                  For the purposes of the calculation of the Net Assets, the following balance sheet items shall be treated as follows:

 

(A)                                any claim for consideration or return “ Gegenleistungs- oder Rückgewähranspruch ” of the relevant German Guarantor against the Upstream Affiliate whose obligations are secured by the relevant Guarantee Obligations shall be treated as due and payable as at the date of this Indenture, and shall be activated based on a

 

66



 

commercial projection “ kaufmännische Prognoseentscheidung ” of a managing director and the information available at the time of this Indenture; and

 

(B)                                the amount of any anticipated payment under this Indenture shall be treated as due and payable as at the date of this Indenture.

 

(2)                                  In relation to the limitations applicable in case of a Share Capital Impairment pursuant to Section 10.2 (d)(1)(a), the Company hereby undertakes to deliver to the Trustee, within 10 Business Days after receipt from the Trustee of a notice stating that the Trustee intends to demand payment of the Guarantee Obligations from a German Guarantor, (i) a balance sheet of the relevant German Guarantor, and, in the case of a German GmbH & Co. KG Guarantor, also of such German Guarantor’s general partner “ persönlich haftender Gesellschafter ”, as of the date of this Indenture together with (ii) a detailed calculation of the amount of the Net Assets of the German Guarantor or its general partner “ persönlich haftender Gesellschafter ”, respectively, at the date of this Indenture, taking into account the adjustments and treatments set forth in Section 10.2(d)(1) (a “ Net Asset Determination ”). Any such balance sheet and Net Asset Determination shall be prepared in accordance with the Accounting Principles as consistently applied and shall be, upon the Trustee’s request (acting reasonably), confirmed by the relevant German Guarantor’s Auditors within a period of 30 Business Days following such request. Based upon the Net Asset Determination (as and to the extent confirmed by the relevant German Guarantor’s Auditors, if such confirmation has been requested by the Trustee), the relevant German Guarantor shall fulfil its Guarantee Obligations, and the Trustee shall be entitled to enforce the Guarantee Obligations, in an amount which would, in accordance with the Net Asset Determination (as and to the extent confirmed by the relevant German Guarantor’s Auditors, if such confirmation has been requested by the Trustee), not have caused a Share Capital Impairment on the relevant German Guarantor’s part or, in the case of a German GmbH & Co. KG Guarantor, on the part of its general partner “ persönlich haftender Gesellschafter ” on the date of this Indenture.

 

(3)                                  The limitations set out in Section 10.2 (d)(1) in relation to Share Capital Impairments shall not apply:

 

(a)                                  to any Guarantee Obligations which relate to any monies borrowed under this Indenture which (i) have been on-lent or otherwise made available to the relevant German Guarantor or any of its Subsidiaries and (ii) are still outstanding; or

 

(b)                                  if, at the date of this Indenture, the German Guarantor was party to a domination agreement “ Beherrschungsvertrag ” and/or a profit transfer agreement “ Gewinnabführungsvertrag ” as dominated entity “ beherrschtes Unternehmen ”, unless the German Guarantor can prove at the time of enforcement of the Guarantee, that the existence of such a domination agreement “ Beherrschungsvertrag ” and/or a profit transfer agreement “ Gewinnabführungsvertrag ” does not lead to the full inapplicability of section 30 paragraph 1 sentence 1 GmbHG.

 

67



 

(4)                                  Any limitations set out in Section 10.2 (d)(1) in relation to Share Capital Impairments shall further not apply:

 

(a)                                  for so long as the Company has not complied with its obligations pursuant to Sections 10.2 (d)(1); or

 

(b)                                  if and to the extent, at the time of enforcement of the Guarantee Obligations, such limitations are not required to protect the managing directors of the relevant German Guarantor or, in case of a German GmbH & Co. KG Guarantor, its general partner “ persönlich haftender Gesellschafter ”, from the risk of personal liability arising from such enforcement of the Guarantee Obligations.

 

(5)                                  No reduction of the amount enforceable under the Guarantee Obligations in accordance with the above limitations will prejudice the rights of the Trustee to continue enforcing the Guarantee Obligations (subject always to the operation of the limitation set out above at the time of such enforcement) until full satisfaction of the guaranteed claims.

 

(e)                                   Limitation on Note Guarantees by Finnish Guarantors . Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Indenture, the Notes Guarantee, indemnity and other obligations of, and any liens granted by, any Guarantor incorporated in Finland (the “ Finnish Guarantor ”) under this Indenture shall be limited to the extent assumption  or granting of the same would constitute unlawful distribution of company’s assets within the meaning of Chapter 13 Section 1 of the Finnish Companies Act ( osakeyhtiölaki 624/2006, as amended, supplemented, re-enacted or renewed, the “ Finnish Companies Act ”) or financial assistance within the meaning of Chapter 13 Section 10 of the Finnish Companies Act.

 

In the assessment of the compliance with Chapter 13 Section 1 of the Finnish Companies Act, among other things:

 

(1)                                  any amount paid or payable by the Finnish Guarantor under the Indenture or in respect of the Notes, the Senior Credit Facility and any other group financing instrument to which the Finnish Guarantor is party or becomes party or in respect of which the Finnish Guarantor grants a guarantee after the signing of this Indenture; and

 

(2)                                  any amount paid from proceeds of any collateral granted by Finnish Guarantor in respect of the Senior Credit Facility or any other group financing instrument,

 

shall be taken into account.

 

Section 10.03                                                                       Execution and Delivery of Note Guarantee.

 

To evidence its Note Guarantee set forth in Section 10.01 hereof, each Guarantor hereby agrees that this Indenture (or a supplemental indenture in the form of Exhibit D hereto) shall be executed on behalf of such Guarantor by one of its Officers.

 

Each Guarantor hereby agrees that its Note Guarantee set forth in Section 10.01 hereof will remain in full force and effect notwithstanding any failure to endorse on each Note a notation of such Note Guarantee.

 

If an Officer whose signature is on this Indenture or on the Note Guarantee no longer holds that office at the time the Trustee authenticates the Note on which a Note Guarantee is endorsed, the Note Guarantee will be valid nevertheless.

 

68



 

The delivery of any Note by the Trustee, after the authentication thereof hereunder, will constitute due delivery of the Note Guarantee set forth in this Indenture on behalf of the Guarantors.

 

Section 10.04                                                                       Guarantors May Consolidate, etc., on Certain Terms.

 

(a)                                  Any Guarantor (other than Venator) may consolidate or merge with or into any other Person, or sell, lease or transfer all or substantially all of the properties or assets of such Guarantor if:

 

(1)                                  the Person formed by such consolidation or into which such Guarantor is merged, or the Person which acquires by lease, sale or transfer all or substantially all of the property and assets of such Guarantor is a corporation organized and existing under the laws of the United States, any state in the United States or the District of Columbia, the United Kingdom or any member state of the European Union or, if such guarantor was organized and existing under the laws of another jurisdiction immediately prior to such transaction, the laws of such other jurisdiction (such Person, the “ Successor Guarantor ”);

 

(2)                                  the Successor Guarantor (if other than such Guarantor) formed by such consolidation or into which such Guarantor is merged, or the Successor Guarantor which acquires by lease, sale or transfer all or substantially all of the property and assets of such Guarantor, agrees to pay the principal of, and any premium and interest on, the notes, perform and observe all covenants and conditions of this Indenture by executing and delivering to the Trustee a Supplemental Indenture; and

 

(3)                                  immediately after giving effect to such transaction and treating indebtedness for borrowed money that becomes an obligation of such Successor Guarantor or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries as a result of such transaction as having been incurred by such Successor Guarantor or such Restricted Subsidiaries at the time of such transaction, no Default or Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing.

 

In case of any such consolidation, merger, sale or conveyance and upon the assumption by the Successor Guarantor, by Supplemental Indenture, executed and delivered to the Trustee, of the Note Guarantee endorsed upon the Notes and the due and punctual performance of all of the covenants and conditions of this Indenture to be performed by the Guarantor, such Successor Guarantor will succeed to and be substituted for the Guarantor with the same effect as if it had been named herein as a Guarantor. Such Successor Guarantor thereupon may cause to be signed any or all of the Note Guarantees to be endorsed upon all of the Notes issuable hereunder which theretofore shall not have been signed by the Issuers and delivered to the Trustee. All the Note Guarantees so issued will in all respects have the same legal rank and benefit under this Indenture as the Note Guarantees theretofore and thereafter issued in accordance with the terms of this Indenture as though all of such Note Guarantees had been issued at the date of the execution hereof.

 

(b)                                  In addition, notwithstanding the foregoing, any Guarantor may (a) consolidate or merge with or into, or sell, lease or transfer all or substantially all of its properties or assets to, Venator or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries or (b) merge or consolidate with an affiliate incorporated solely for the purpose of reincorporating or reorganizing such Guarantor in another jurisdiction.

 

Section 10.05                                                                       Releases.

 

The obligations of any Guarantor under its Note Guarantee will be automatically and unconditionally released and discharged when any of the following occurs:

 

69



 

(a)                                  a disposition (including, without limitation, by way of merger, consolidation or otherwise), directly or indirectly, of all of the Capital Stock of such Guarantor (other than Venator) to any Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary of Venator;

 

(b)                                  a disposition (including, without limitation, by way of merger, consolidation or otherwise), directly or indirectly, of capital stock of such Guarantor (other than Venator) to any Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary of Venator, or an issuance by such Guarantor of its Capital Stock, in each case as a result of which such Guarantor ceases to be a majority-owned Subsidiary of Venator;

 

(c)                                   such Guarantor (other than Venator) ceases to be a borrower or other obligor with respect to any other indebtedness of any Issuer, Venator or any other Guarantor;

 

(d)                                  the designation of such Guarantor (other than Venator) as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in accordance with the provisions of this Indenture; or

 

(e)                                   upon Legal Defeasance or Covenant Defeasance in accordance with Article 8 hereof or satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture in accordance with Article 11 hereof.

 

Any Guarantor not released from its obligations under its Note Guarantee as provided in this Section 10.05 will remain liable for the full amount of principal of, premium on, if any, and interest on, the Notes and for the other obligations of any Guarantor under this Indenture as provided in this Article 10.

 

ARTICLE 11
SATISFACTION AND DISCHARGE

 

Section 11.01                                                                       Satisfaction and Discharge.

 

This Indenture will be discharged and will cease to be of further effect as to all Notes issued hereunder, when:

 

(1)                                  either:

 

(a)                                  all the existing authenticated and delivered Notes (except lost, stolen or destroyed Notes which have been replaced or paid and notes for whose payment money has been deposited in trust or segregated and held in trust by the Issuers and repaid to the Issuers or discharged from such trust) have been delivered to the Trustee for cancellation; or

 

(b)                                  all Notes not theretofore delivered to the Trustee for cancellation have become due and payable or will become due and payable within one year (including by way of irrevocable written instructions delivered by the Issuers to the Trustee to effect the redemption of the Notes), and the Issuers have irrevocably deposited or caused to be deposited with the Trustee as trust funds in trust solely for the benefit of the Holders of such Notes, funds in amounts as will be sufficient without consideration of any reinvestment of interest to pay and discharge the entire indebtedness on such notes not already delivered to the Trustee for cancellation, for principal of, premium, if any, and interest on the notes to the date of deposit together with irrevocable written instructions from the Issuers directing the Trustee to apply such funds to the payment thereof at maturity or redemption, as the case may be;

 

(2)                                                                                  the Issuers or any Guarantor has paid or caused to be paid all sums payable by it under this Indenture; and

 

70


 

(3)           the Issuers have, upon their request for written acknowledgment of such satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture, delivered to the Trustee an Officers’ Certificate and an Opinion of Counsel stating that all conditions precedent under this Indenture relating to the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture have been complied with.

 

Notwithstanding the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture, if money has been deposited with the Trustee pursuant to subclause (b) of clause (1) of this Section 11.01, the provisions of Sections 11.02 and 8.06 hereof will survive. In addition, nothing in this Section 11.01 will be deemed to discharge those provisions of Section 7.07 hereof, that, by their terms, survive the satisfaction and discharge of this Indenture.

 

Section 11.02                       Application of Trust Money.

 

Subject to the provisions of Section 8.06 hereof, all money deposited with the Trustee pursuant to Section 11.01 hereof shall be held in trust and applied by it, in accordance with the provisions of the Notes and this Indenture, to the payment, either directly or through any Paying Agent (including an Issuer acting as Paying Agent) as the Trustee may determine, to the Persons entitled thereto, of the principal, premium, if any, and interest for whose payment such money has been deposited with the Trustee; but such money need not be segregated from other funds except to the extent required by law.

 

If the Trustee or Paying Agent is unable to apply any money or Government Securities in accordance with Section 11.01 hereof by reason of any legal proceeding or by reason of any order or judgment of any court or governmental authority enjoining, restraining or otherwise prohibiting such application, the Issuers’ and any Guarantor’s obligations under this Indenture and the Notes shall be revived and reinstated as though no deposit had occurred pursuant to Section 11.01 hereof; provided that if the Issuers have made any payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on any Notes because of the reinstatement of its obligations, the Issuers shall be subrogated to the rights of the Holders of such Notes to receive such payment from the money or Government Securities held by the Trustee or Paying Agent.

 

ARTICLE 12
MISCELLANEOUS

 

Section 12.01                       [Reserved].

 

Section 12.02                       Notices.

 

Any notice or communication by any Issuer, any Guarantor or the Trustee to the others is duly given if in writing and delivered in Person or by first class mail (registered or certified, return receipt requested), facsimile transmission or overnight air courier guaranteeing next day delivery, to the others’ address:

 

If to the Issuers and/or any Guarantor:

 

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive
The Woodlands, Texas 77380
Attention: Office of General Counsel

 

71



 

If to the Trustee:

 

Wilmington Trust, National Association
50 South Sixth Street, Suite 1290

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402

Facsimile: (612) 217-5651

Attention: Venator Administrator

 

The Issuers, any Guarantor or the Trustee, by notice to the others, may designate additional or different addresses for subsequent notices or communications.

 

All notices and communications (other than those sent to Holders) will be deemed to have been duly given: at the time delivered by hand, if personally delivered; five Business Days after being deposited in the mail, postage prepaid, if mailed; when receipt acknowledged, if transmitted by facsimile; and the next Business Day after timely delivery to the courier, if sent by overnight air courier guaranteeing next day delivery.

 

Any notice or communication to a Holder will be mailed by first class mail, certified or registered, return receipt requested, by overnight air courier guaranteeing next day delivery to its address shown on the register kept by the Registrar or by electronic transmission to the registered Holder of any Global Note. Failure to mail a notice or communication to a Holder or any defect in it will not affect its sufficiency with respect to other Holders.

 

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Indenture or any Note, where this Indenture or any Note provides for notice of any event (including any notice of purchase) to a Holder of a Global Note (whether by mail or otherwise), such notice shall be sufficiently given if given to the Depositary for such Note (or its designee) pursuant to the standing instructions from such Depositary.

 

If a notice or communication is mailed in the manner provided above within the time prescribed, it is duly given, whether or not the addressee receives it.

 

If the Issuers send a notice or communication to Holders, it will send a copy to the Trustee and each Agent at the same time.

 

Section 12.03                       [Reserved].

 

Section 12.04                       Certificate and Opinion as to Conditions Precedent.

 

Upon any request or application by the Issuers to the Trustee to take any action under this Indenture, the Issuers shall furnish to the Trustee:

 

(1)           an Officers’ Certificate in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee (which must include the statements set forth in Section 12.05 hereof) stating that, in the opinion of the signers, all conditions precedent and covenants, if any, provided for in this Indenture relating to the proposed action have been satisfied; and

 

(2)           an Opinion of Counsel in form reasonably satisfactory to the Trustee (which must include the statements set forth in Section 12.05 hereof) stating that, in the opinion of such counsel, all such conditions precedent and covenants have been satisfied.

 

72



 

Section 12.05                       Statements Required in Certificate or Opinion.

 

Each certificate or opinion with respect to compliance with a condition or covenant provided for in this Indenture (other than a certificate provided pursuant to Section 4.04 hereof) must include:

 

(1)           a statement that the Person making such certificate or opinion has read such covenant or condition;

 

(2)           a brief statement as to the nature and scope of the examination or investigation upon which the statements or opinions contained in such certificate or opinion are based;

 

(3)           a statement that, in the opinion of such Person, he or she has made such examination or investigation as is necessary to enable him or her to express an informed opinion as to whether or not such covenant or condition has been satisfied; and

 

(4)           a statement as to whether or not, in the opinion of such Person, such condition or covenant has been satisfied.

 

Section 12.06                       Rules by Trustee and Agents.

 

The Trustee may make reasonable rules for action by or at a meeting of Holders. The Registrar or Paying Agent may make reasonable rules and set reasonable requirements for its functions.

 

Section 12.07                       No Personal Liability of Directors, Managers, Officers, Employees, Incorporators, Stockholders or Members.

 

No director, manager, officer, employee, incorporator, stockholder or member of Venator, the Issuers or any Subsidiary thereof will have any liability for any obligations of Venator, the Issuers or the Guarantors under the Notes, this Indenture, the Note Guarantees or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each Holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Notes. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the federal securities laws.

 

Section 12.08                       Governing Law; Waiver of Jury Trial.

 

THIS INDENTURE, THE NOTES AND THE NOTE GUARANTEES SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. FOR THE AVOIDANCE OF DOUBT, THE APPLICATION OF ARTICLES 84 TO 94-8 (INCLUSIVE AND TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW) OF THE LUXEMBOURG ACT OF 10 AUGUST 1915 ON COMMERCIAL COMPANIES, AS AMENDED, SHALL BE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED. EACH OF THE ISSUERS, THE GUARANTORS, THE HOLDERS AND THE TRUSTEE HEREBY IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY AND ALL RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY IN ANY LEGAL PROCEEDING ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS INDENTURE, THE NOTES, THE NOTE GUARANTEES OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY.

 

Section 12.09                       No Adverse Interpretation of Other Agreements.

 

This Indenture may not be used to interpret any other indenture, loan or debt agreement of Venator, the Issuers or their Subsidiaries or of any other Person. Any such indenture, loan or debt agreement may not be used to interpret this Indenture.

 

73



 

Section 12.10                       Successors.

 

All agreements of the Issuers in this Indenture and the Notes will bind its successors. All agreements of the Trustee in this Indenture will bind its successors. All agreements of each Guarantor in this Indenture will bind its successors, except as otherwise provided in Section 10.05 hereof.

 

Section 12.11                       Severability.

 

In case any provision in this Indenture or in the Notes is invalid, illegal or unenforceable, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions will not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.

 

Section 12.12                       Counterpart Originals.

 

The parties may sign any number of copies of this Indenture. Each signed copy will be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement. The exchange of copies of this Indenture and of signature pages by facsimile or PDF transmission shall constitute effective execution and delivery of this Indenture as to the parties hereto and may be used in lieu of the original Indenture for all purposes. Signatures of the parties hereto transmitted by facsimile or PDF shall be deemed to be their original signatures for all purposes.

 

Section 12.13                       [Reserved].

 

Section 12.14                       Table of Contents, Headings, etc.

 

The Table of Contents and Headings of the Articles and Sections of this Indenture have been inserted for convenience of reference only, are not to be considered a part of this Indenture and will in no way modify or restrict any of the terms or provisions hereof.

 

Section 12.15                       U.S.A. Patriot Act

 

The parties hereto acknowledge that in accordance with Section 326 of the U.S.A. Patriot Act, the Trustee, like all financial institutions and in order to help fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering, is required to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or legal entity that establishes a relationship or opens an account with the Trustee.  The parties to this Indenture agree that they will provide the Trustee with such information as it may request in order for the Trustee to satisfy the requirements of the U.S.A. Patriot Act, including but not limited to the name, address, tax identification number and other information that will allow the Trustee to identify the individual or entity who is establishing the relationship or opening the account and may also ask for formation documents such as articles of incorporation or other identifying documents to be provided.

 

Section 12.16                       Force Majeure

 

In no event shall the Trustee be responsible or liable for any failure or delay in the performance of its obligations hereunder arising out of or caused by, directly or indirectly, forces beyond its control, including, without limitation, strikes, work stoppages, accidents, acts of war or terrorism, civil or military disturbances, nuclear or natural catastrophes or acts of God, and interruptions, loss or malfunctions of utilities, communications or computer (software and hardware) services; it being understood that the Trustee shall use reasonable efforts which are consistent with accepted practices in the banking industry to resume performance as soon as practicable under the circumstances.

 

74



 

Section 12.17                       Jurisdiction; Consent to Service of Process.

 

(a)           Each party hereto irrevocably and unconditionally submits, for itself and its property, to the nonexclusive jurisdiction of any U.S. Federal or New York State court sitting in the Borough of Manhattan, New York, New York in any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Indenture, or for recognition or enforcement of any judgment, and each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that all claims in respect of any such action or proceeding may be heard and determined in such New York State or, to the extent permitted by law, in such Federal court.  Each of the parties hereto agrees that a final judgment in any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law.  Nothing in this Indenture shall affect any right that the parties hereto may otherwise have to bring any action or proceeding relating to this Indenture against any party hereto or its properties in the courts of any jurisdiction.

 

(b)           Each party hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives, to the fullest extent it may legally and effectively do so, any objection which it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Indenture in any court referred to in paragraph (a) of this Section 12.17.  Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding in any such court.

 

(c)           Each of the Issuers and each of the Guarantors hereby irrevocably designates, appoints and empowers CSC (the “ Process Agent ”), in the case of any suit, action or proceeding brought in the United States of America as its designee, appointee and agent to receive, accept and acknowledge for and on its behalf, and in respect of its property, service of any and all legal process, summons, notices and documents that may be served in any action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Indenture.  Such service may be made by mailing (by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid) or delivering a copy of such process to any Issuer or Guarantor in care of the Process Agent at 1180 Avenue of the Americas, Suite 210, New York, NY 10036-8410, and each of the Issuers and each of the Guarantors hereby irrevocably authorizes and directs the Process Agent to accept such service on its behalf.  As an alternative method of service, each of the Issuers and each of the Guarantors irrevocably consents to the service of any and all process in any such action or proceeding by the mailing (by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid) of copies of such process to the Process Agent, the Issuers or any Guarantor at its address specified in Section 12.02.

 

(d)           To the extent permitted by law, each party to this Indenture hereby irrevocably waives personal service of any and all process upon it and agrees that all such service of process may be made by registered mail (return receipt requested) directed to it at its address for notices as provided for in Section 12.02.  Nothing in this Indenture will affect the right of any party to this Indenture to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

75



 

SIGNATURES

 

Dated as of        , 2017

 

 

 

Venator Finance S.à r.l.

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

 

 

Venator Materials LLC

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

[Signature Page to Indenture]

 



 

 

Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

[Signature Page to Indenture]

 



 

SCHEDULE 1

 

Subsidiary Guarantors as of the Completion Date

 

Huntsman Spin (Holdings) UK Limited

Huntsman Spin UK Limited

Huntsman (UK) Limited

Creambay Limited

Huntsman Pigments (UK) Limited

Huntsman P&A UK Ltd

Tioxide Group

Huntsman Spin Investments UK Limited

Chemical Specialties LLC

Huntsman P&A Americas LLC

Tioxide Americas (Holdings) LLC

Huntsman (Holdings) Germany GmbH

Huntsman P&A Germany GmbH

Huntsman P&A Uerdingen GmbH

Silo Pigmente GmbH

Huntsman Pigments Holdings GmbH

Brockhues GmbH & Co. KG

Sachtleben Wasserchemie (Holding) GmbH

Huntsman P&A Wasserchemie GmbH

Huntsman P&A Spain S.L.U.

Huntsman P&A Canada Inc.

Huntsman P&A France SAS

Holiday France S.A.S.

Holiday Pigments International S.A.S.

Holiday Pigments S.A.S.

Huntsman P&A Finland Oy

Huntsman P&A Investments LLC

 



 

EXHIBIT A

 

[Insert the applicable Private Placement Legend, if applicable pursuant to the provisions of the Indenture]

 

[Insert the Global Note Legend, if applicable pursuant to the provisions of the Indenture]

 

[Insert ERISA Legend]

 

[Face of Note]

 

CUSIP/ISIN             (1)

 

5.75% Senior Notes due 2025

 

No.    

 

[$            ]

 

VENATOR FINANCE S.À R.L.

 

VENATOR MATERIALS LLC

 

promise to pay to [Cede & Co.] [              ] or registered assigns, the principal sum [set forth on the Schedule of Exchanges of Interests in the Global Note attached hereto] [of                      UNITED STATES DOLLARS] on July 15, 2025.

 

Interest Payment Dates: January 15 and July 15

 

Record Dates: January 1 and July 1

 


(1)   144A CUSIP / ISIN: 9226AP AA3 / US9226APAA30

Reg S CUSIP / ISIN: L9633D AA2 / USL9633DAA20

 

A- 1



 

 

VENATOR FINANCE S.À R.L.

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

VENATOR MATERIALS LLC

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

This is one of the Notes referred to
in the within-mentioned Indenture:

 

 

WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, as Trustee

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Authorized Signatory

 

 

 

 

Dated:

 

 

 

[Note should be dated the date of Trustee’s authentication]

 

A- 2


 

[Back of Note]
5.75% Senior Notes due 2025

 

Capitalized terms used herein have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture referred to below unless otherwise indicated.

 

(1)           INTEREST . Venator Finance S.à r.l., a private limited liability company ( société à responsabilité limitée ) incorporated under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (“ Luxembourg ”), having its registered office at 180, route de Longwy, L-1940 Luxembourg and registered with the Luxembourg Register of Commerce and Companies (R.C.S. Luxembourg ) under number B215641 (“ Venator Finance ”), and Venator Materials LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Venator Co-Issuer ” and, together with Venator Finance, the “ Issuers ”), promise to pay or cause to be paid interest on the principal amount of this Note at 5.75% per annum from                 ,     until maturity. The Issuers will pay interest semi-annually in arrears on January 15 and July 15 of each year, or if any such day is not a Business Day, on the next succeeding Business Day (each, an “ Interest Payment Date ”). Interest on the Notes will accrue from the most recent date to which interest has been paid or, if no interest has been paid, from the date of issuance; provided that, if this Note is authenticated between a record date referred to on the face hereof and the next succeeding Interest Payment Date, interest shall accrue from such next succeeding Interest Payment Date; provided further that the first Interest Payment Date shall be              ,      .

 

Interest will be computed on the basis of a 360-day year comprised of twelve 30-day months.

 

(2)           METHOD OF PAYMENT . The Issuers will pay interest on the Notes (except defaulted interest) to the Persons who are registered Holders of Notes at the close of business on the January 1 or July 1 next preceding the Interest Payment Date, even if such Notes are canceled after such record date and on or before such Interest Payment Date, except as provided in Section 2.12 of the Indenture with respect to defaulted interest. The Notes will be payable as to principal, premium, if any, and interest at the office or agency of the Paying Agent and Registrar, or, at the option of the Issuers, payment of interest may be made by check mailed to the Holders at their addresses set forth in the register of Holders; provided that payment by wire transfer of immediately available funds will be required with respect to principal of, premium on, if any, and interest on, all Global Notes and all other Notes the Holders of which will have provided wire transfer instructions to the Issuers or the Paying Agent. Such payment will be in such coin or currency of the United States of America as at the time of payment is legal tender for payment of public and private debts.

 

(3)           PAYING AGENT AND REGISTRAR . Initially, Wilmington Trust, National Association, the Trustee under the Indenture, will act as Paying Agent and Registrar. The Issuers may change the Paying Agent or Registrar without prior notice to the Holders of the Notes. Venator, an Issuer or any of their Subsidiaries may act as Paying Agent or Registrar.

 

(4)           INDENTURE . The Issuers issued the Notes under an Indenture dated as of        , 2017 (the “ Indenture ”) among the Issuers and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as Trustee. To the extent any provision of this Note conflicts with the express provisions of the Indenture, the provisions of the Indenture shall govern and be controlling. The Notes are unsecured obligations of the Issuers.

 

A- 3



 

(5)           OPTIONAL REDEMPTION.

 

(a)   At any time prior to July 15, 2020, the Issuers may on any one or more occasions redeem all or a part of the Notes, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the Notes redeemed, plus the Applicable Premium as of, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to, but not including, the applicable date of redemption, subject to the rights of Holders on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date occurring prior to or on the date of redemption.

 

(b)   Prior to July 15, 2020, the Issuers may on any one or more occasions redeem up to 40% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) with an amount not greater than the net cash proceeds of one or more Equity Offerings, upon notice as described under Section 3.03, at a redemption price equal to 105.75% of the principal amount of the Notes, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the applicable date of redemption; provided that (i) at least 60% of the original aggregate principal amount of the Notes (calculated after giving effect to any issuance of Additional Notes) remains outstanding after each such redemption (excluding Notes held by Venator and its Subsidiaries); and (ii) such redemption occurs within 120 days after the closing of such Equity Offering. Notice of any such redemption must be given within 90 days after the date of such Equity Offering.

 

(c)   Except pursuant to Sections 5(a), 5(b), 5(e) and 5(f) hereof, the Notes will not be redeemable at the Issuers’ option prior to July 15, 2020.

 

(d)   On or after July 15, 2020, the Issuers may on any one or more occasions redeem all or a part of the Notes, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice, at the redemption prices (expressed as a percentage of principal amount of the Notes to be redeemed) set forth below, plus accrued and unpaid interest on the Notes, if any, to the applicable date of redemption, if redeemed during the twelve-month period beginning on July 15 of each of the years indicated below:

 

Year

 

Percentage

 

2020

 

104.313

%

2021

 

102.875

%

2022

 

101.438

%

2023 and thereafter

 

100.000

%

 

(e)   The Issuers are entitled to redeem Notes, at their option, at any time in whole but not in part, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days’ notice to the Holders, at a redemption price equal to 100% of the outstanding principal amount thereof, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, to the date of redemption (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date), in the event any Payor has become or would become obligated to pay, on the next date on which any amount would be payable with respect to the Notes, any Additional Amounts (but, in the case of a Guarantor, only if such amount could not be paid by the Issuers or another Guarantor who can pay such amount without the obligation to pay Additional Amounts), in each case, as a result of:

 

(A)  a change in, or an amendment to, the laws (including any regulations or rulings promulgated thereunder) or treaties of any Relevant Taxing Jurisdiction; or

 

A- 4



 

(B)  any change in, amendment to, or introduction of any official published position regarding the application, administration or interpretation of such laws or treaties (including any regulations or rulings promulgated thereunder and including the decision of any court, governmental agency or tribunal),

 

which change, amendment or introduction is publicly announced or becomes effective on or after the Issue Date and the Payor cannot avoid such obligation by taking reasonable measures available to it (including making payment through a paying agent located in another jurisdiction), provided that such Payor will not be required to take any measures that would result in the imposition on it of any material legal or regulatory burden or the incurrence by it of any material additional costs, or would otherwise result in any material adverse consequences. The foregoing provisions will apply mutatis mutandis to the laws and official positions of any jurisdiction in which any successor permitted under Article 5 of the Indenture is incorporated, organized or otherwise resident for tax purposes or any political subdivision or taxing authority or agency thereof or therein.

 

(f)    In the event that Holders of not less than 90% in aggregate principal amount of the outstanding Notes accept a Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer and the Issuers (or any third party making such Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer in lieu of the Issuers as described in Section 4.10(c) of the Indenture) purchase all of the notes held by such Holders, the Issuers will have the right, upon not less than 30 nor more than 60 days prior notice, given not more than 30 days following the purchase pursuant to the Change of Control Offer or Alternate Offer described above, to redeem all of the Notes that remain outstanding following such purchase at a redemption price equal to the Change of Control Payment or the Alternate Offer Payment, as the case may be, plus, to the extent not included in the Change of Control Payment or the Alternate Offer Payment, accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on the Notes that remain outstanding, to, but not including, the date of redemption (subject to the rights of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on an interest payment date that is on or prior to the redemption date).

 

(6)           MANDATORY REDEMPTION. The Issuers are not required to make mandatory redemption or sinking fund payments with respect to the Notes other than as described in the immediately following sentence of this Section 6. In the event that (i) the Completion Date does not take place on or prior to the Escrow Outside Date or (ii) in the reasonable judgment of the Issuers, the Proposed IPO will not be consummated on or prior to the Escrow Outside Date (the date of any such event being the “Special Termination Date”), the Issuers shall redeem all of the Notes at a price equal to 100% of the aggregate issue price of the Notes, plus accrued but unpaid interest, if any, from the Issue Date to, but not including, the Special Mandatory Redemption Date (subject to the right of Holders of record on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date).

 

(7)           REPURCHASE AT THE OPTION OF HOLDER. Upon the occurrence of a Change of Control Repurchase Event, the Issuers will be required to make an offer (a “ Change of Control Offer ”) to each Holder to repurchase all or any part (equal to a minimum of $2,000 or an integral multiple of $1,000 in excess thereof) of that Holder’s Notes at a purchase price in cash equal to 101% of the aggregate principal amount of Notes repurchased, plus accrued and unpaid interest, if any, on the Notes repurchased to the date of purchase, subject to the rights of Holders of Notes on the relevant record date to receive interest due on the relevant interest payment date occurring prior to or on the repurchase date (the “ Change of Control Payment ”). Within 30 days following any Change of Control, the Issuers will mail a notice to each Holder setting forth the procedures governing the Change of Control Offer as required by the Indenture.

 

A- 5



 

(8)           NOTICE OF REDEMPTION . At least 30 days but not more than 60 days before a redemption date, the Issuers will mail or cause to be mailed, by first class mail or in the case of a Global Note send electronically, a notice of redemption to each Holder whose Notes are to be redeemed at its registered address, except that redemption notices may be sent more than 60 days prior to a redemption date if the notice is issued in connection with a defeasance of the Notes or a satisfaction and discharge of the Indenture pursuant to Articles 8 or 11 thereof. Notes and portions of Notes selected will be in minimum amounts of $2,000 or whole multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof; except that if all of the Notes of a Holder are to be redeemed or purchased, the entire outstanding amount of Notes held by such Holder shall be redeemed or purchased.

 

(9)           DENOMINATIONS, TRANSFER, EXCHANGE . The Notes are in registered form in minimum denominations of $2,000 and integral multiples of $1,000 in excess thereof. The transfer of Notes may be registered and Notes may be exchanged as provided in the Indenture. The Registrar and the Trustee may require a Holder, among other things, to furnish appropriate endorsements and transfer documents and the Issuers may require a Holder to pay any taxes and fees required by law or permitted by the Indenture. The Issuers need not exchange or register the transfer of any Note or portion of a Note selected for redemption, except for the unredeemed portion of any Note being redeemed in part. Also, the Issuers need not exchange or register the transfer of any Notes for a period of 15 days before a selection of Notes to be redeemed or during the period between a record date and the next succeeding Interest Payment Date.

 

(10)         PERSONS DEEMED OWNERS . The registered Holder of a Note may be treated as the owner of it for all purposes. Only registered Holders have rights under the Indenture.

 

(11)         AMENDMENT, SUPPLEMENT AND WAIVER . Subject to certain exceptions, the Indenture, the Notes or the Note Guarantees may be amended or supplemented with the consent of the Holders of at least a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes including Additional Notes, if any, voting as a single class, and any existing Default or Event of Default or compliance with any provision of the Indenture or the Notes or the Note Guarantees may be waived with the consent of the Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes including Additional Notes, if any, voting as a single class. Without the consent of any Holder of Notes, the Indenture, the Notes or the Note Guarantees may be amended or supplemented to (i) cure any ambiguities, defect or inconsistency, (ii) provide for the assumption of the Issuers’ or Guarantors’ obligations to Holders of Notes in the case of a merger or consolidation or sale of all or substantially all of the Issuers’ or Guarantors’ assets, (iii) provide for uncertificated Notes in addition to or in place of certificated Notes (provided, that the uncertificated notes are issued in registered form for purposes of Section 163(f) of the Code), (iv) add any Person as a Guarantor of the Notes or secure the Notes or the Note Guarantees, (v) comply with the rules of any applicable Depositary, (vi) evidence and provide for the acceptance of an appointment under this Indenture of a successor Trustee; provided that the successor Trustee is otherwise qualified and eligible to act as such under the terms of this Indenture, (vii) make any change that would provide any additional rights or benefits to the Holders of Notes or that does not adversely affect in any material respect the legal rights under the Indenture of any such Holder, or (viii) conform the text of the Indenture or the Notes to the descriptions thereof set forth in the “Description of Notes” section of the Issuers’ Offering Memorandum dated June 29, 2017, relating to the initial offering of the Notes to the extent that the Trustee has received an Officers’ Certificate stating that such text constitutes an unintended conflict with the corresponding provision in such “Description of Notes.”

 

(12)         DEFAULTS AND REMEDIES . Events of Default include: (i) failure to pay interest on any Notes when the same becomes due and payable and the default continues for a

 

A- 6



 

period of 30 days; (ii) the failure to pay the principal on any Notes, when such principal becomes due and payable, at maturity, upon redemption or otherwise, (iii) the failure of any Issuer, Venator or any other Guarantor to comply with any covenant or agreement contained in the Indenture, which default continues for a period of 90 days after Venator or the Issuers receive a written notice specifying the default (or 120 days after such a notice in the event of a Default under Section 4.03 of the Indenture) (and demanding that such default be remedied) from the Trustee or the Holders of at least 25% of the outstanding principal amount of the Notes (including any Additional Notes subsequently issued under the Indenture) (except in the case of a default with respect to Section 5.01 or 10.04 of the Indenture, which will constitute an Event of Default with such notice requirement but without such passage of time requirement); (iv) default under any agreement governing indebtedness of Venator, any Issuer or any of their Significant Subsidiaries, if that Default (A) is caused by a failure at to pay at final maturity the principal amount of any indebtedness after giving effect to any applicable grace periods and any extensions of time for payment of such indebtedness; or (B) results in the acceleration of the final stated maturity of any such indebtedness prior to its express maturity, and in each case, the aggregate principal amount of such indebtedness unpaid or accelerated aggregates $50.0 million or more and has not been discharged in full or such acceleration has not been rescinded or annulled within 30 days of such final maturity or acceleration; (v) certain events of bankruptcy affecting Venator or either Issuer or (vi) the failure of any Note Guarantee by Venator or any Significant Subsidiary to be in full force and effect (other than in accordance with the terms of such Note Guarantee and the Indenture) or any of the Guarantors denies its liability under its Note Guarantee and such Default continues for 10 days. Holders may not enforce the Indenture or the Notes except as provided in the Indenture. Subject to certain limitations, Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes may direct the time, method and place of conducting any proceeding for exercising any remedy available to the Trustee or exercising any trust or power conferred on it. The Trustee may withhold from Holders of the Notes notice of any continuing Default or Event of Default (except a Default or Event of Default relating to the payment of principal, premium, if any, or interest) if it determines that withholding notice is in their interest. The Holders of a majority in aggregate principal amount of the then outstanding Notes by written notice to the Trustee may, on behalf of all the Holders of Notes, rescind an acceleration or waive an existing Default or Event of Default and its respective consequences under the Indenture except a continuing Default or Event of Default in the payment of principal of, premium on, if any, or interest on, the Notes (including in connection with an offer to purchase). The Issuers are required to deliver to the Trustee annually a statement regarding compliance with the Indenture, and the Issuers are required, upon obtaining knowledge of any Default or Event of Default, to deliver to the Trustee a statement specifying such Default or Event of Default.

 

(13)         TRUSTEE DEALINGS WITH ISSUERS . The Trustee, in its individual or any other capacity, may make loans to, accept deposits from, and perform services for the Issuers or their affiliates, and may otherwise deal with the Issuers or their affiliates, as if it were not the Trustee.

 

(14)         NO RECOURSE AGAINST OTHERS . No director, manager, officer, employee, incorporator, stockholder or member of Venator, the Issuers or any Subsidiary thereof will have any liability for any obligations of Venator, the Issuers or the Guarantors under the Notes, this Indenture, the Note Guarantees or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each Holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Notes. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the federal securities laws.

 

A- 7



 

(15)         AUTHENTICATION . This Note will not be valid until authenticated by the manual signature of the Trustee or an authenticating agent.

 

(16)         ABBREVIATIONS . Customary abbreviations may be used in the name of a Holder or an assignee, such as: TEN COM (= tenants in common), TEN ENT (= tenants by the entireties), JT TEN (= joint tenants with right of survivorship and not as tenants in common), CUST (= custodian), and U/G/M/A (= Uniform Gifts to Minors Act).

 

(17)         CUSIP AND ISIN NUMBERS . Pursuant to a recommendation promulgated by the Committee on Uniform Security Identification Procedures, the Issuers have caused CUSIP and ISIN numbers to be printed on the Notes, and the Trustee may use CUSIP and/or ISIN numbers in notices of redemption as a convenience to Holders. No representation is made as to the accuracy of such numbers either as printed on the Notes or as contained in any notice of redemption, and reliance may be placed only on the other identification numbers placed thereon.

 

(18)         GOVERNING LAW . THIS NOTE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. FOR THE AVOIDANCE OF DOUBT, THE APPLICATION OF ARTICLES 84 TO 94-8 (INCLUSIVE AND TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW) OF THE LUXEMBOURG ACT OF 10 AUGUST 1915 ON COMMERCIAL COMPANIES, AS AMENDED, SHALL BE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.

 

The Issuers will furnish to any Holder upon written request and without charge a copy of the Indenture. Requests may be made to:

 

Venator Finance S.à r.l and Venator Materials LLC

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

Attention: Office of General Counsel

 

A- 8



 

ASSIGNMENT FORM

 

To assign this Note, fill in the form below:

 

(I) or (we) assign and transfer this Note to:

 

 

(Insert assignee’s legal name)

 

 

(Insert assignee’s soc. sec. or tax I.D. no.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Print or type assignee’s name, address and zip code)

 

and irrevocably appoint                                                                                                                                                                             to transfer this Note on the books of the Issuers. The agent may substitute another to act for him.

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your Signature:

 

 

(Sign exactly as your name appears on the face of this Note)

 

 

 

 

Signature Guarantee*:

 

 

 


*              Participant in a recognized Signature Guarantee Medallion Program (or other signature guarantor acceptable to the Trustee).

 

A- 9



 

Option of Holder to Elect Purchase

If you want to elect to have this Note purchased by the Issuers pursuant to Section 4.10 of the Indenture, check the box below:

 

o  Section 4.10

 

If you want to elect to have only part of the Note purchased by the Issuers pursuant to Section 4.10 of the Indenture, state the amount you elect to have purchased:

 

$              

 

Date:

 

 

 

 

 

Your Signature:

 

(Sign exactly as your name appears on the face of this Note)

 

 

Tax Identification No.:

 

 

Signature Guarantee*:

 

 

 


*              Participant in a recognized Signature Guarantee Medallion Program (or other signature guarantor acceptable to the Trustee).

 

A- 10



 

SCHEDULE OF EXCHANGES OF INTERESTS IN THE GLOBAL NOTE *

 

The following exchanges of a part of this Global Note for an interest in another Global Note or for a Definitive Note, or exchanges of a part of another Global Note or Definitive Note for an interest in this Global Note, have been made:

 

Date of Exchange

 

Amount of
decrease in
Principal Amount
of
this Global Note

 

Amount of
increase in
Principal Amount
of
this Global Note

 

Principal Amount
of this Global Note
following such
decrease
(or increase)

 

Signature of
authorized
signatory of
Trustee or
Notes Custodian

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


*                  This schedule should be included only if the Note is issued in global form .

 

A- 11



 

EXHIBIT B

 

FORM OF CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER

 

Venator Finance S.à r.l and Venator Materials LLC

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

Attention: Office of General Counsel

 

Wilmington Trust, National Association
50 South Sixth Street, Suite 1290

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402

Facsimile: (612) 217-5651

Attention: Venator Administrator

 

Re: 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025

 

Reference is hereby made to the Indenture dated as of         , 2017 (the “ Indenture ”) among Venator Finance S.à r.l., a private limited liability company ( société à responsabilité limitée ) incorporated under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (“ Luxembourg ”), having its registered office at 180, route de Longwy, L-1940 Luxembourg and registered with the Luxembourg Register of Commerce and Companies (R.C.S. Luxembourg ) under number B215641 (“ Venator Finance ”), and Venator Materials LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Venator Co-Issuer ” and, together with Venator Finance, the “ Issuers ”), and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in the Indenture.

 

, (the “ Transferor ”) owns and proposes to transfer the Note[s] or interest in such Note[s] specified in Annex A hereto, in the principal amount of $            in such Note[s] or interests (the “ Transfer ”), to                             (the “ Transferee ”), as further specified in Annex A hereto. In connection with the Transfer, the Transferor hereby certifies that:

 

[CHECK ALL THAT APPLY]

 

1. o    Check if Transferee will take delivery of a beneficial interest in the 144A Global Note or a Restricted Definitive Note pursuant to Rule 144A . The Transfer is being effected pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), and, accordingly, the Transferor hereby further certifies that the beneficial interest or Definitive Note is being transferred to a Person that the Transferor reasonably believes is purchasing the beneficial interest or Definitive Note for its own account, or for one or more accounts with respect to which such Person exercises sole investment discretion, and such Person and each such account is a “qualified institutional buyer” within the meaning of Rule 144A in a transaction meeting the requirements of Rule 144A, and such Transfer is in compliance with any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States. Upon consummation of the proposed Transfer in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the transferred beneficial interest or Definitive Note will be subject to the restrictions on transfer enumerated in the Private Placement Legend printed on the 144A Global Note and/or the Restricted Definitive Note and in the Indenture and the Securities Act.

 

2. o    Check if Transferee will take delivery of a beneficial interest in the Regulation S Global Note or a Restricted Definitive Note pursuant to Regulation S . The Transfer is being effected pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 903 or Rule 904 under the Securities Act and, accordingly, the Transferor hereby further certifies that (i) the Transfer is not being made to a Person in the United States and (x) at the time the buy order was originated, the Transferee was outside the United States or such

 

B- 1


 

Transferor and any Person acting on its behalf reasonably believed and believes that the Transferee was outside the United States or (y) the transaction was executed in, on or through the facilities of a designated offshore securities market and neither such Transferor nor any Person acting on its behalf knows that the transaction was prearranged with a buyer in the United States, (ii) no directed selling efforts have been made in contravention of the requirements of Rule 903(b) or Rule 904(b) of Regulation S under the Securities Act and (iii) the transaction is not part of a plan or scheme to evade the registration requirements of the Securities Act. Upon consummation of the proposed transfer in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the transferred beneficial interest or Definitive Note will be subject to the restrictions on Transfer enumerated in the Private Placement Legend printed on the Regulation S Global Note and/or the Restricted Definitive Note and in the Indenture and the Securities Act.

 

3. o Check and complete if Transferee will take delivery of a beneficial interest in a Restricted Definitive Note pursuant to any provision of the Securities Act other than Rule 144A or Regulation S . The Transfer is being effected in compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to beneficial interests in Restricted Global Notes and Restricted Definitive Notes and pursuant to and in accordance with the Securities Act and any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States, and accordingly the Transferor hereby further certifies that (check one):

 

(a) o such Transfer is being effected pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act;

 

or

 

(b) o such Transfer is being effected to the Issuers or a subsidiary thereof;

 

or

 

(c) o such Transfer is being effected pursuant to an effective registration statement under the Securities Act and in compliance with the prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities Act.

 

4. o Check if Transferee will take delivery of a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note or of an Unrestricted Definitive Note .

 

(a) o Check if Transfer is pursuant to Rule 144 . (i) The Transfer is being effected pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act and in compliance with the transfer restrictions contained in the Indenture and any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States and (ii) the restrictions on transfer contained in the Indenture and the Private Placement Legend are not required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act. Upon consummation of the proposed Transfer in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the transferred beneficial interest or Definitive Note will no longer be subject to the restrictions on transfer enumerated in the Private Placement Legend printed on the Restricted Global Notes, on Restricted Definitive Notes and in the Indenture.

 

(b) o Check if Transfer is Pursuant to Regulation S . (i) The Transfer is being effected pursuant to and in accordance with Rule 903 or Rule 904 under the Securities Act and in compliance with the transfer restrictions contained in the Indenture and any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States and (ii) the restrictions on transfer contained in the Indenture and the Private Placement Legend are not required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act. Upon consummation of the proposed Transfer in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the transferred beneficial interest or Definitive Note will no longer be subject to the restrictions on transfer enumerated in the Private

 

B- 2



 

Placement Legend printed on the Restricted Global Notes, on Restricted Definitive Notes and in the Indenture.

 

(c) o Check if Transfer is Pursuant to Other Exemption . (i) The Transfer is being effected pursuant to and in compliance with an exemption from the registration requirements of the Securities Act other than Rule 144, Rule 903 or Rule 904 and in compliance with the transfer restrictions contained in the Indenture and any applicable blue sky securities laws of any State of the United States and (ii) the restrictions on transfer contained in the Indenture and the Private Placement Legend are not required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act. Upon consummation of the proposed Transfer in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the transferred beneficial interest or Definitive Note will not be subject to the restrictions on transfer enumerated in the Private Placement Legend printed on the Restricted Global Notes or Restricted Definitive Notes and in the Indenture.

 

This certificate and the statements contained herein are made for your benefit and the benefit of the Issuers.

 

 

 

 

 

[Insert Name of Transferor]

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

Dated:

 

 

 

 

B- 3



 

ANNEX A TO CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER

 

1.             The Transferor owns and proposes to transfer the following:

 

[CHECK ONE OF (a) OR (b)]

 

(a) o a beneficial interest in the:

 

(i) o 144A Global Note (CUSIP          ), or

 

(ii) o Regulation S Global Note (CUSIP          ), or

 

(b) o a Restricted Definitive Note.

 

2.             After the Transfer the Transferee will hold:

 

[CHECK ONE]

 

(a) o a beneficial interest in the:

 

(i) o 144A Global Note (CUSIP          ), or

 

(ii) o Regulation S Global Note (CUSIP          ), or

 

(iii) o Unrestricted Global Note (CUSIP          ); or

 

(b) o a Restricted Definitive Note; or

 

(c) o an Unrestricted Definitive Note,

 

in accordance with the terms of the Indenture.

 

B- 4



 

EXHIBIT C

 

FORM OF CERTIFICATE OF EXCHANGE

 

Venator Finance S.à r.l and Venator Materials LLC

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

Attention: Office of General Counsel

 

Wilmington Trust, National Association
50 South Sixth Street, Suite 1290

Minneapolis, Minnesota 55402

Facsimile: (612) 217-5651

Attention: Venator Administrator

 

Re: 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025

 

(CUSIP [         ])

 

Reference is hereby made to the Indenture dated as of              , 2017 (the “ Indenture ”) among Venator Finance S.à r.l., a private limited liability company ( société à responsabilité limitée ) incorporated under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (“ Luxembourg ”), having its registered office at 180, route de Longwy, L-1940 Luxembourg and registered with the Luxembourg Register of Commerce and Companies (R.C.S. Luxembourg ) under number B215641 (“ Venator Finance ”), and Venator Materials LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Venator Co-Issuer ” and, together with Venator Finance, the “ Issuers ”), and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings given to them in the Indenture.

 

, (the “ Owner ”) owns and proposes to exchange the Note[s] or interest in such Note[s] specified herein, in the principal amount of $             in such Note[s] or interests (the “ Exchange ”). In connection with the Exchange, the Owner hereby certifies that:

 

1.             Exchange of Restricted Definitive Notes or Beneficial Interests in a Restricted Global Note for Unrestricted Definitive Notes or Beneficial Interests in an Unrestricted Global Note

 

(a) o Check if Exchange is from beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note to beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note . In connection with the Exchange of the Owner’s beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note in an equal principal amount, the Owner hereby certifies (i) the beneficial interest is being acquired for the Owner’s own account without transfer, (ii) such Exchange has been effected in compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to the Global Notes and pursuant to and in accordance with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), (iii) the restrictions on transfer contained in the Indenture and the Private Placement Legend are not required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act and (iv) the beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note is being acquired in compliance with any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States.

 

(b) o Check if Exchange is from beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note to Unrestricted Definitive Note . In connection with the Exchange of the Owner’s beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note for an Unrestricted Definitive Note, the Owner hereby certifies (i) the Definitive Note is being acquired for the Owner’s own account without transfer, (ii) such Exchange has been effected in compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to the Restricted Global Notes and

 

C- 1



 

pursuant to and in accordance with the Securities Act, (iii) the restrictions on transfer contained in the Indenture and the Private Placement Legend are not required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act and (iv) the Definitive Note is being acquired in compliance with any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States.

 

(c) o Check if Exchange is from Restricted Definitive Note to beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note . In connection with the Owner’s Exchange of a Restricted Definitive Note for a beneficial interest in an Unrestricted Global Note, the Owner hereby certifies (i) the beneficial interest is being acquired for the Owner’s own account without transfer, (ii) such Exchange has been effected in compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to Restricted Definitive Notes and pursuant to and in accordance with the Securities Act, (iii) the restrictions on transfer contained in the Indenture and the Private Placement Legend are not required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act and (iv) the beneficial interest is being acquired in compliance with any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States.

 

(d) o Check if Exchange is from Restricted Definitive Note to Unrestricted Definitive Note . In connection with the Owner’s Exchange of a Restricted Definitive Note for an Unrestricted Definitive Note, the Owner hereby certifies (i) the Unrestricted Definitive Note is being acquired for the Owner’s own account without transfer, (ii) such Exchange has been effected in compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to Restricted Definitive Notes and pursuant to and in accordance with the Securities Act, (iii) the restrictions on transfer contained in the Indenture and the Private Placement Legend are not required in order to maintain compliance with the Securities Act and (iv) the Unrestricted Definitive Note is being acquired in compliance with any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States.

 

2.             Exchange of Restricted Definitive Notes or Beneficial Interests in Restricted Global Notes for Restricted Definitive Notes or Beneficial Interests in Restricted Global Notes

 

(a) o Check if Exchange is from beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note to Restricted Definitive Note. In connection with the Exchange of the Owner’s beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note for a Restricted Definitive Note with an equal principal amount, the Owner hereby certifies that the Restricted Definitive Note is being acquired for the Owner’s own account without transfer. Upon consummation of the proposed Exchange in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the Restricted Definitive Note issued will continue to be subject to the restrictions on transfer enumerated in the Private Placement Legend printed on the Restricted Definitive Note and in the Indenture and the Securities Act.

 

(b) o Check if Exchange is from Restricted Definitive Note to beneficial interest in a Restricted Global Note . In connection with the Exchange of the Owner’s Restricted Definitive Note for a beneficial interest in the [CHECK ONE] o 144A Global Note or o Regulation S Global Note with an equal principal amount, the Owner hereby certifies (i) the beneficial interest is being acquired for the Owner’s own account without transfer and (ii) such Exchange has been effected in compliance with the transfer restrictions applicable to the Restricted Global Notes and pursuant to and in accordance with the Securities Act, and in compliance with any applicable blue sky securities laws of any state of the United States. Upon consummation of the proposed Exchange in accordance with the terms of the Indenture, the beneficial interest issued will be subject to the restrictions on transfer enumerated in the Private Placement Legend printed on the relevant Restricted Global Note and in the Indenture and the Securities Act.

 

This certificate and the statements contained herein are made for your benefit and the benefit of the Issuers.

 

C- 2



 

 

 

 

 

[Insert Name of Transferor]

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

Dated:

 

 

 

C- 3



 

EXHIBIT D

 

FORM OF SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE
TO BE DELIVERED BY SUBSEQUENT GUARANTORS

 

SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE (this “ Supplemental Indenture ”), dated as of                 , among                    (the “ Guaranteeing Subsidiary ”), a subsidiary of Venator Materials PLC (or its permitted successor) (“ Venator ”), Venator Finance S.à r.l., a private limited liability company ( société à responsabilité limitée ) incorporated under the laws of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg (“ Luxembourg ”), having its registered office at 180, route de Longwy, L-1940 Luxembourg and registered with the Luxembourg Register of Commerce and Companies (R.C.S. Luxembourg ) under number B215641 (“ Venator Finance ”), and Venator Materials LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Venator Co-Issuer ” and, together with Venator Finance, the “ Issuers ”), the other Guarantors (as defined in the Indenture referred to herein) and Wilmington Trust, National Association, a national banking association, as trustee under the Indenture referred to below (the “ Trustee ”).

 

W I T N E S S E T H

 

WHEREAS, the Issuers have heretofore executed and delivered to the Trustee an indenture (the “ Indenture ”), dated as of              , 2017 providing for the issuance of 5.75% Senior Notes due 2025 (the “ Notes ”);

 

WHEREAS, the Indenture provides that under certain circumstances the Guaranteeing Subsidiary shall execute and deliver to the Trustee a supplemental indenture pursuant to which the Guaranteeing Subsidiary shall unconditionally guarantee all of the Issuers’ obligations under the Notes and the Indenture on the terms and conditions set forth herein (the “ Note Guarantee ”); and

 

WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 9.01 of the Indenture, the Trustee is authorized to execute and deliver this Supplemental Indenture.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the foregoing and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Guaranteeing Subsidiary and the Trustee mutually covenant and agree for the equal and ratable benefit of the Holders of the Notes as follows:

 

1.             CAPITALIZED TERMS. Capitalized terms used herein without definition shall have the meanings assigned to them in the Indenture.

 

2.             AGREEMENT TO GUARANTEE. The Guaranteeing Subsidiary hereby agrees to provide an unconditional Guarantee on the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in the Note Guarantee and in the Indenture including but not limited to Article 10 thereof.

 

3.             NO RECOURSE AGAINST OTHERS. No director, manager, officer, employee, incorporator, stockholder or member of Venator, the Issuers or any Subsidiary thereof will have any liability for any obligations of Venator, the Issuers or the Guarantors under the Notes, this Indenture, the Note Guarantees or for any claim based on, in respect of, or by reason of, such obligations or their creation. Each Holder of Notes by accepting a Note waives and releases all such liability. The waiver and release are part of the consideration for issuance of the Notes. The waiver may not be effective to waive liabilities under the federal securities laws.

 

4.             GOVERNING LAW. THIS SUPPLEMENTAL INDENTURE SHALL BE GOVERNED BY, AND CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH, THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK. FOR THE AVOIDANCE OF DOUBT, THE APPLICATION OF ARTICLES 84 TO 94-8 (INCLUSIVE AND TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY LAW) OF THE LUXEMBOURG ACT OF 10

 

E- 1



 

AUGUST 1915 ON COMMERCIAL COMPANIES, AS AMENDED, SHALL BE EXPRESSLY EXCLUDED.

 

5.             COUNTERPARTS. The parties may sign any number of copies of this Supplemental Indenture. Each signed copy will be an original, but all of them together represent the same agreement. The exchange of copies of this Supplemental Indenture and of signature pages by facsimile or PDF transmission shall constitute effective execution and delivery of this Supplemental Indenture as to the parties hereto and may be used in lieu of the original Indenture for all purposes. Signatures of the parties hereto transmitted by facsimile or PDF shall be deemed to be their original signatures for all purposes.

 

6.             EFFECT OF HEADINGS. The Section headings herein are for convenience of reference only, are not to be considered a part of this Supplemental Indenture and will in no way modify or restrict any of the terms or provisions hereof.

 

7.             THE TRUSTEE. The Trustee shall not be responsible in any manner whatsoever for or in respect of the validity or sufficiency of this Supplemental Indenture or for or in respect of the recitals contained herein, all of which recitals are made solely by the Guaranteeing Subsidiary, Venator and the Issuers.

 

E- 2



 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Supplemental Indenture to be duly executed and attested, all as of the date first above written.

 

Dated:                                   ,

 

 

[GUARANTEEING SUBSIDIARY]

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

VENATOR FINANCE S.À R.L.

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

VENATOR MATERIALS LLC

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

[EXISTING GUARANTORS]

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

WILMINGTON TRUST, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

 

 as Trustee

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

E- 3




Exhibit 5.1

 

 

              , 2017

 

Venator Materials PLC
Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park,
Stockton-On-Tees
United Kingdom
TS22 5FD

 

Re:                              Registration Statement on Form S-1

 

Ladies and Gentlemen:

 

1.                                       Introduction

 

We have acted as English law legal advisers to Venator Materials PLC, a public limited company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (the “ Company ”), in connection with the proposed offering and sale by the selling shareholders (the “ Selling Shareholders ”) pursuant to a prospectus forming a part of a Registration Statement on Form S-1 (Registration No. 333-217753 (as amended through the date hereof, the “ Registration Statement ”) filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ Commission ”) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “ Securities Act ”), for the registration of up to                 ordinary shares, $0.001 par value per share, of the Company (the “ Shares ”). Prior to the consummation of the offering, the Company expects to issue an aggregate of                       ordinary shares to the Selling Shareholders (the “ Recapitalization ”).

 

2.                                       Documents Examined and Searches conducted

 

2.1.                             For the purpose of giving this opinion, we have examined the following documents:

 

(a)                                  a copy of the Registration Statement, initially filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on 5 May 2017, as amended through the date hereof;

 

(b)                                  copies (certified by an officer’s certificate of the Company (the “ Officer’s Certificate ”) as being true, complete and accurate and up-to-date in each case) of the following documents:

 

(1)                                  a copy the Company’s articles of association, existing as at the date of this opinion, and the articles of association anticipated to be in effect upon completion of the offering;

 

(2)                                  copies of resolutions of the shareholders of the Company passed on                2017 (the “ Shareholder Resolutions ”);

 

Vinson & Elkins RLLP International Lawyers
Austin Beijing Dallas Dubai Hong Kong Houston London Moscow New York
Palo Alto Richmond Riyadh San Francisco Taipei Tokyo Washington

 

20 Fenchurch Street, 24th Floor
London EC3M 3BY, United Kingdom
Tel +44.20.7065.6000 Fax +44.20.7065.6001 velaw.com

 

Solicitors and Registered Foreign Lawyers. A list of partner names is available for inspection at 20 Fenchurch Street, 24th Floor, London EC3M 3BY. Vinson & Elkins RLLP is a limited liability partnership formed under the laws of New York authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (No. 0079019).

 



 

(3)                                  copies of the written resolutions of the Board of Directors of the Company dated May 5,                     and                     2017 (the “ Board Resolutions ” and together with the Shareholder Resolutions, the “ Corporate Approvals ”); and

 

(4)                                  the Company’s register of members held by the Company at                      2017;

 

2.2.                             For the purpose of giving this opinion, we have made the following enquiries:

 

(a)                                  on                    2017 at              p.m. (UK time) we carried out an online search of the Company’s public records held by the UK Registrar of Companies (the “ Company Search ”); and

 

(b)                                  on                    2017 at              p.m. (UK time) we made a telephone enquiry at the Companies Court in London of the Central Index of Winding Up Petitions with respect to the Company (the “ Winding up Search ”).

 

2.3.                             Except as stated above, we have not for the purpose of this opinion examined any agreements, documents or corporate records entered into by or affecting the Company or made any other enquiries concerning the Company.

 

3.                                       Scope

 

3.1.                             This opinion is limited to the laws of England and Wales as applied by the English courts as at the date of this letter. We have not investigated, and do not express or imply any opinion in relation to, the laws of any other jurisdiction and we do not express any opinion on European Community law as it affects any jurisdiction other than England and Wales.

 

3.2.                             We expressly disclaim any responsibility to advise you of any development or circumstance of any kind, including any change of law or fact that may occur after the date of this letter that may affect the opinion expressed herein.

 

3.3.                             The opinion given in this letter is strictly limited to the matters stated in paragraph 5 and does not extend to, and is not to be read as extended by implication to, any other matters. We express no opinion as to whether a foreign court (applying its own conflict law) will act in accordance with any agreement by the Company in connection with the issuance of the Shares as to jurisdiction and/or law. We express no opinion as to matters of fact.

 

3.4.                             By giving this opinion we do not assume any obligation to notify you of changes in law following the date of this opinion which may affect the opinions expressed herein or to otherwise update this opinion in any respect.

 

2



 

3.5.                             This opinion and any obligations arising out of it or in connection with it (including non-contractual obligations) shall be governed by and construed in accordance with English law.

 

4.                                       Assumptions

 

In giving this opinion we have assumed:

 

4.1.                             the genuineness of all signatures, stamps and seals on all documents submitted to or examined by us (whether as originals or copies and whether in electronic form or otherwise);

 

4.2.                             that all copy documents submitted to us are complete and conform to the originals;

 

4.3.                             that the information revealed by the Company Search was and remains complete, accurate and up to date in all respects as at the date of this letter and have not been amended or any provisions thereof varied or waived;

 

4.4.                             that each of the signed documents examined by us have been duly executed and, where applicable, delivered on behalf of the Company;

 

4.5.                             that no additional matters would have been disclosed by company searches at the UK Registrar of Companies or the Companies Court being carried out since the carrying out of the searches and enquiries referred to in paragraph 2.2 above which would affect the opinion stated below and that the particulars disclosed by our searches and enquiries are true, accurate, complete and up to date;

 

4.6.                             that no step has been taken to wind up, strike off or dissolve the Company or appoint an administrator or receiver or nominee or supervisor in respect of a company voluntary arrangement or similar official in respect of the Company or any of its assets or revenues or to obtain a moratorium nor has any analogous procedure or step been taken in any jurisdiction, which (in each case) has or have not been revealed by our searches referred to in paragraph 2.2 above;

 

4.7.                             that each of the statements contained in the Officer’s Certificate is true and correct as at the date of this opinion; and

 

4.8.                             that the term “non-assessable”, which has no recognised meaning in English law, for the purposes of this letter means that under the Companies Act 2006 (as amended), the articles of association of the Company and any resolution taken under the articles of association of the Company approving the issuance of the Shares, no holder of such Shares is liable, solely because of such holder’s status as a holder of such Shares, for additional assessments or calls for further funds by the Company.

 

3



 

5.                                       Opinion

 

Based upon the foregoing and subject to any matters not disclosed to us and to the assumptions and qualifications set out in this letter, we are of the opinion that the Shares, when issued and delivered to the Selling Shareholders against payment therefore in the Recapitalization, and when valid entries in the books and registers of the Company have been made, will be validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.

 

6.                                       Qualifications

 

The opinion given in this letter is subject to the qualifications and reservations set out below.

 

6.1.                             In giving this opinion, we have relied upon (i) the Officer’s Certificate and (ii) the information revealed by our Company Search and our Winding up Search being accurate in all respects and not since the time of such enquiry having been altered;

 

6.2.                             The Company Search is not capable of revealing conclusively whether or not:

 

(a)                                  a winding-up order has been made or a resolution passed for the winding up of the Company;

 

(b)                                  an administration order has been made;

 

(c)                                   a receiver, administrative receiver, administrator or liquidator has been appointed; or

 

(d)                                  a court order has been made under the Cross Border Insolvency Regulations 2006,

 

since notice of these matters may not be filed with the Registrar of Companies immediately and, when filed, there may be a delay in the relevant notice appearing on the file of the company concerned.

 

In addition, the Company Search is not capable of revealing, prior to the making of the relevant order or the appointment of an administrator otherwise taking effect, whether or not a winding-up petition or an application for an administration order has been presented, or whether or not any documents for the appointment of, or notice of intention to appoint, an administrator under paragraphs 14 or 22 of Schedule B1 to the Insolvency Act 1986 has been filed with the court.

 

6.3.                             The Winding up Search relates only to the presentation of (i) a petition for the making of a winding-up order or the making of a winding up order by a court, (ii) an application to the High Court of Justice in London for the making of an administration order and the making by such court of an administration order, and (iii) a notice of intention to appoint an administrator or a notice of appointment of an administrator filed at the High Court of Justice in London. It is not capable of

 

4



 

revealing conclusively whether or not such a winding-up petition, application for an administration order, notice of intention or notice of appointment has been presented or winding-up or administration order granted, because:

 

(a)                                  details of a winding-up petition or application for an administration order may not have been entered on the records of the Central Index of Winding Up Petitions immediately;

 

(b)                                  in the case of an application for the making of an administration order and such order and the presentation of a notice of intention to appoint or notice of appointment, if such application is made to, order made by or notice filed with, a court other than the High Court of Justice in London, no record of such application, order or notice will be kept by the Central Index of Winding Up Petitions;

 

(c)                                   a winding-up order or administration order may be made before the relevant petition or application has been entered on the records of the Central Index of Winding Up Petitions, and the making of such order may not have been entered on the records immediately;

 

(d)                                  details of a notice of intention to appoint an administrator or a notice of appointment of an administrator under paragraphs 14 and 22 of Schedule B1 of the Insolvency Act 1986 may not be entered on the records immediately (or, in the case of a notice of intention to appoint, at all); and

 

(e)                                   with regard to winding-up petitions, the Central Index of Winding Up Petitions may not have records of winding-up petitions issued prior to 1994.

 

7.                                       Consent to Filing

 

We hereby consent to your filing this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and to the use of our name therein and in the related prospectus under the caption “Legal Matters.” We further consent to the incorporation by reference of this letter and consent into any registration statement filed pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act with respect to the Shares.  In giving such consent, we do not thereby admit that we are in the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act or the rules and regulations of the Commission thereunder.

 

Very truly yours,

 

5




Exhibit 10.2

 

TAX MATTERS AGREEMENT

 

by and among

 

HUNTSMAN CORPORATION

 

and

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

Dated as of [ · ]

 



 

FORM OF TAX MATTERS AGREEMENT

 

This TAX MATTERS AGREEMENT (this “ Agreement ”) is entered into as of [ · ], by and among Huntsman Corporation, a Delaware corporation (“ Huntsman ”), and Venator Materials PLC, a public limited company organized in the United Kingdom (“ Venator ”), and is effective as of the Effective Time.  Each of Huntsman and Venator is sometimes referred to herein as a “ party ” and, collectively, the “ parties.

 

RECITALS

 

WHEREAS, the board of directors of Huntsman has determined that it is in the best interests of Huntsman and its shareholders that Venator operate the Pigments Business as a separate publicly-traded entity;

 

WHEREAS, prior to the IPO, Venator was an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman;

 

WHEREAS, prior to and in preparation for the IPO, Huntsman and its subsidiaries completed an internal reorganization through a series of transactions, including taxable and nontaxable asset transfers, dividends, contributions and similar transactions in order to transfer the Pigments Business to Venator (the “ Internal Reorganization ”);

 

WHEREAS, on the Offering Date, ordinary shares of Venator were sold to the public (the “ IPO ”);

 

WHEREAS, immediately after, and as a result of, the IPO, Venator ceased to be an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of Huntsman; and

 

WHEREAS, the parties wish to (a) provide for the payment of Tax Liabilities and entitlement to refunds thereof, (b) allocate responsibility for, and cooperation in, the filing of Tax Returns, and (c) provide for and agree on certain other matters relating to Taxes.

 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and undertakings contained herein and in any other document executed in connection with this Agreement, the parties agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I
DEFINITIONS; CERTAIN OPERATING CONVENTIONS

 

1.1                                For purposes of this Agreement, the following terms have the meanings set forth below:

 

Additional Basis Tax Benefit means, with respect to each Post-Offering Taxable Period, the excess, if any, of the Cumulative Adjusted Tax Liability over the Cumulative Actual Tax Liability.

 

Affiliated Group means an affiliated group of corporations, within the meaning of Section 1504(a) of the Code, or any similar group of entities as defined under corresponding

 



 

provisions of the laws of other jurisdictions, including the common parent corporation and any member of such group.  For the avoidance of doubt, Affiliated Group includes the group relief provisions, and all similar provisions, under the tax law, rules and regulations of the United Kingdom.  Huntsman shall be deemed and treated as if it were, (even where a “parent” is not required) the parent company of the United Kingdom Affiliated Group.

 

Agreement has the meaning set forth in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Audit means any audit, assessment of Taxes, other examination by any Tax Authority, or proceeding or appeal of a proceeding relating to Taxes, whether administrative or judicial, including proceedings relating to competent authority determinations.

 

Basis Increases means any increases in the basis of the assets of the U.S. Pigments Business for U.S. federal income tax purposes resulting from (i) the Internal Reorganization and from payments made pursuant to Section 2.7 and (ii) any immediate deduction resulting from payments made pursuant to Section 2.7.  For the avoidance of doubt, the Parties acknowledge that this will create an iterative gross-up calculation where a payment by Venator will create additional Basis Increases, which will create an additional payment, which will create additional Basis Increases and so on until the amount reaches a whole one dollar.

 

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

 

Cumulative Actual Tax Liability with respect to each taxable year, means the cumulative cash payments for U.S. federal income Taxes of the Venator Group for all taxable years beginning after the Internal Reorganization through the end of such taxable year.  Cumulative Actual Tax Liability shall be calculated within 30 days following the filing of the relevant U.S. income tax returns for the applicable taxable year.  To the extent there are amendments to a relevant income tax return of a Venator Group member or a Final Determination affecting the U.S. federal income Taxes of the Venator Group, such amendment or Final Determination shall be treated as changing the Cumulative Actual Tax Liability for the taxable year during which the amendment or Final Determination occurs.

 

Cumulative Adjusted Tax Liability with respect to each taxable year, means the cumulative hypothetical cash payments for U.S. federal income Taxes of the Venator Group for all taxable years beginning after the Internal Reorganization through the end of such taxable year (calculated using the same methods, elections, conventions, U.S. federal income tax rate and similar practices used on the relevant actual federal income tax returns) but without taking into account any Basis Increases.  To the extent there are amendments to a relevant income tax return of a Venator Group member or a Final Determination affecting the U.S. federal income Taxes of the Venator Group, such amendment or Final Determination shall be treated as changing the Cumulative Adjusted Tax Liability for the taxable year during which the amendment or Final Determination occurs.

 

Directly Owned Huntsman Assets means any assets associated with the Other Huntsman Businesses that were (i) sold, contributed, or otherwise transferred to Huntsman or any member of the Huntsman Group as part of the Internal Reorganization and (ii) treated for a taxable

 

2



 

period, or portion thereof, prior to the Internal Reorganization as directly owned by any member of the Venator Group for U.S. federal income and any other applicable Tax purposes.

 

Directly Owned Venator Assets means any assets associated with the Pigments Business that were (i) sold, contributed, or otherwise transferred to Venator or any member of the Venator Group as part of the Internal Reorganization and (ii) treated for a taxable period, or portion thereof, prior to the Internal Reorganization, as directly owned by any member of the Huntsman Group for U.S. federal income and any other applicable Tax purposes.

 

Effective Time means [11:59 P.M., Eastern Standard Time], on [ · ].

 

Estimated Tax Installment Date means the date on which an installment of any Taxes is required to be made.

 

Filing Party has the meaning set forth in Section 6.1.

 

Final Determination means the final resolution of cash Tax liability for any Tax Item or for the Tax Liability for any taxable period, by or as a result of (i) a final decision, judgment, decree or other order by any court of competent jurisdiction that can no longer be appealed; (ii) a final settlement with the IRS, a closing agreement or accepted offer in compromise under Sections 7121 or 7122 of the Code, or a comparable agreement under the laws of other jurisdictions, which resolves the entire Tax Liability for any taxable period; (iii) any allowance of a Tax Refund in respect of an overpayment of Tax, but only after the expiration of all periods during which such refund or credit may be recovered by the jurisdiction imposing the Tax; or (iv) any other final resolution, including by reason of the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations or the execution of a pre-filing agreement with the IRS or other Tax Authority.

 

Group Return means (i) any Huntsman Group Return and (ii) any Venator Group Return.

 

Huntsman has the meaning set forth in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement.

 

Huntsman Group means the Affiliated Group of which Huntsman is the common parent corporation, and any corporation or other entity which may be, may have been or may become a member of such group from time to time, but excluding, from and after the Offering Date, any member of the Venator Group.

 

Huntsman Group Return means (i) any Tax Return with respect to any Taxes that is filed on a consolidated, combined, unitary or similar basis wherein Venator or any member of the Venator Group joins in the filing of such Tax Return (for any taxable period or portion thereof) with Huntsman or any member of the Huntsman Group and (ii) any Tax Return of Huntsman or any member of the Huntsman Group that includes any Tax Items attributable to any Directly Owned Venator Assets.

 

Huntsman Separate Return means any Tax Return of Huntsman or any member of the Huntsman Group that is not a Huntsman Group Return.

 

Huntsman Taxes has the meaning set forth in Section 2.2.

 

3



 

Huntsman Tax Refunds has the meaning set forth in Section 2.6(a).

 

I ndemnifying Party means any Person from which an Indemnified Party is seeking indemnification pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement.

 

Indemnified Party means any Person which is seeking indemnification from an Indemnifying Party pursuant to the provisions of this Agreement.

 

Independent Firm means an internationally or national recognized, as appropriate, law firm, in the event of a dispute regarding the interpretation of this Agreement, or an internationally or national recognized, as appropriate, accounting firm, in the event of a dispute regarding calculations made pursuant to this Agreement, in each case, mutually acceptable to Huntsman and Venator.

 

Internal Reorganization has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

IPO has the meaning set forth in the Recitals of this Agreement.

 

IRS means the United States Internal Revenue Service.

 

Offering Date means the closing date of the IPO.

 

Other Huntsman Businesses means any businesses of Huntsman and its subsidiaries other than the Pigments Business.

 

Payment Period has the meaning set forth in Section 5.3.

 

Person means any individual, corporation, company, association, partnership, joint venture, limited liability company, joint stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, or other entity.

 

Pigments Business means the manufacturing of pigments and additives that improve performance and add color to everyday items, such as paints, inks, plastics, concrete, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and food.

 

Post-Offering Taxable Period means a taxable period or portion thereof that begins after the Offering Date.

 

Pre-Offering Taxable Period means a taxable period or portion thereof that ends on or before the Offering Date.

 

Separation Agreement means the Separation Agreement, as amended from time to time, by and between Huntsman and Venator dated as of [ · ].

 

Straddle Period means any taxable period that begins on or before and ends after the Offering Date.

 

Tax or Taxes means all taxes, charges, fees, imposts, levies or other assessments, including all net income, gross receipts, capital, sales, use, gains, ad valorem, value added,

 

4



 

transfer, franchise, profits, inventory, capital stock, license, withholding, payroll, employment, social security, unemployment, excise, severance, stamp, occupation, property and estimated taxes, custom duties, fees, assessments and charges of any kind whatsoever, together with any interest and any penalties, fines, additions to tax or additional amounts imposed by any Tax Authority and includes any liability in respect of any of the foregoing that arises by operation of law.  For the avoidance of doubt, Tax or Taxes means all liabilities giving rise to a cash tax obligation in the year of Final Determination.

 

Tax Authority means the IRS and any other governmental authority responsible for the administration and collection of Taxes.

 

Tax Item means any item of income, gain, loss, deduction, expense, credit, or other attribute that may have the effect of increasing or decreasing any Tax Liability.

 

Tax Liabilities means all liabilities for Taxes.

 

Tax Refund means any refund or credit of any cash Taxes.

 

Tax Returns means any and all reports, returns, declaration forms and statements (including amendments thereto) filed or required to be filed with respect to Taxes, and any attachments thereto.

 

Transfer Taxes has the meaning set forth in Section 2.4.

 

Treasury Regulations means the regulations under the Code promulgated by the United States Department of the Treasury.

 

Venator Group means the Affiliated Group of which Venator will be the common parent corporation immediately after the Internal Reorganization and IPO, any predecessor to any such entity, and any corporation or other entity which may become a member of such group from time to time.  For the avoidance of doubt, the Venator Group will include any legal entity which is wholly-owned, directly or indirectly, by members of the Venator Group.

 

Venator Group Return means any Tax Return of Venator or any member of the Venator Group that includes any Tax Items attributable to any Directly Owned Huntsman Assets, but excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, any Huntsman Group Return.

 

Venator Separate Return means any Tax Return of Venator or any member of the Venator Group that is not a Venator Group Return.

 

Venator Taxes has the meaning set forth in Section 2.1.

 

Venator Tax Refund has the meaning set forth in Section 2.6(b).

 

1.2                                References; Construction .

 

(a)                                  Capitalized terms not otherwise defined in this Agreement have the meaning ascribed to them in the Separation Agreement.

 

5



 

(b)                                  The words “hereof,” “herein,” and “hereunder” and words of similar import, when used in this Agreement, refer to this Agreement as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Agreement.

 

(c)                                   The terms defined in the singular have a comparable meaning when used in the plural, and vice versa.

 

(d)                                  References to any “Article” or “Section,” without more, are to Articles and Sections to or of this Agreement.  Unless otherwise expressly stated, clauses beginning with the term “including” or similar words set forth examples only and in no way limit the generality of the matters thus exemplified.

 

ARTICLE II
RESPONSIBILITY FOR TAXES; ALLOCATION

 

2.1                                Venator’s Responsibility For Taxes .  Venator will be responsible for, and will indemnify Huntsman and the members of the Huntsman Group against, any Venator Taxes.  “ Venator Taxes ” shall be determined in good faith by Huntsman and shall equal (a) any cash Taxes reflected on a Venator Separate Return, plus (b) the excess, if any, of (i) the cash Taxes reflected on any Group Return over (ii) the hypothetical cash Tax Liability that would have been shown on such Group Return if such Group Return had not included any Tax Items attributable to Venator, any member of the Venator Group, or any Directly Owned Venator Assets; provided, however, that “Tax Items” for purposes of this clause (ii) will not include Tax Items arising solely as a result of the Internal Reorganization.

 

2.2                                Huntsman’s Responsibility For Taxes .  Huntsman will be responsible for, and will indemnify Venator and the members of the Venator Group against, any Huntsman Taxes.  “ Huntsman Taxes ” shall be determined in good faith by Huntsman and shall equal (a) any cash Taxes reflected on a Huntsman Separate Return, plus (b) the excess, if any, of (i) the cash Taxes reflected on any Group Return, over (ii) the amount of such cash Taxes that are Venator Taxes.

 

2.3                                Computation of Venator Taxes and Huntsman Taxes .

 

(a)                                  Venator Taxes and Huntsman Taxes shall be calculated in connection with the filing of any relevant Tax Return, the amendment of any relevant Tax Return and the occurrence of any Final Determination.

 

(b)                                  At least fifteen (15) days prior to the filing of any Group Return (or at least fifteen (15) days prior to the filing of an amendment thereof), Huntsman shall provide Venator with a written calculation setting forth in reasonable detail the amount of any Venator Taxes with respect to such Group Return.  Venator will have the right to review and comment on such calculation, and shall be provided with reasonable access to any supporting documentation on request.  Any dispute with respect to such calculation will be resolved pursuant to Section 7.1.  If such dispute has not been resolved prior to the due date (including extensions) for filing such Tax Return (or amendment thereof), Venator will pay an amount equal to the Venator Taxes (as determined by Huntsman) to Huntsman and will be entitled to be reimbursed by Huntsman to the extent the dispute is resolved in Venator’s favor.

 

6



 

(c)                                   Within 30 days following the amendment of any Group Return including Venator Taxes or the occurrence of a Final Determination affecting Venator Taxes, Huntsman shall provide Venator with a written revised calculation of Venator Taxes and within ten (10) days following the receipt thereof, Venator shall pay any additional Venator Taxes to Huntsman (or Huntsman shall pay to Venator any reduction in Venator Taxes previously paid pursuant to this Section 2.3). Any dispute with respect to such calculation will be resolved pursuant to Section 7.1.

 

(d)                                  For purposes of calculating Venator Taxes and Huntsman Taxes, (i) any compensation deductions relating to the issuance or vesting of Huntsman stock or the exercise of any Huntsman stock options shall be treated as relating to Huntsman Taxes, and (ii) any compensation deductions relating to the issuance or vesting of Venator stock or the exercise of any Venator stock options shall be treated as relating to Venator Taxes.

 

(e)                                   For the avoidance of doubt, to the extent that any amendment of any Tax Return or any Final Determination results in a change in the amount of any earnings and profits, previously taxed income, subpart F income inclusion or similar item, but does not result in a change in the Taxes reflected on any Group Return, such amendment or Final Determination shall not result in any payment obligation under Sections 2.1 and 2.2.  Further, subpart F income, if any, associated with the Internal Reorganization in a Pre-Offering Taxable Period shall be a Huntsman Tax irrespective of the Final Determination or amendments.

 

2.4                                Payment of Sales, Use or Similar Taxes .  Notwithstanding Sections 2.1 and 2.2, all sales, use, transfer, real property transfer, intangible, recordation, registration, documentary, stamp or similar Taxes applicable to, or resulting from the Internal Reorganization or from the sale of Venator shares in connection with the IPO (“ Transfer Taxes ”) will be borne one hundred percent (100%) by Huntsman.  Notwithstanding anything in this Article II to the contrary, the party required by applicable law shall remit payment for any Transfer Taxes and duly and timely file any Tax Returns required to be filed with respect to such Transfer Taxes, subject to any indemnification rights of Venator pursuant to this Section 2.4, which shall be paid by Huntsman in accordance with Section 5.1.  Venator, Huntsman, and their respective affiliates will cooperate in (i) determining the amount of such Transfer Taxes, (ii) providing all requisite exemption certificates, and (iii) preparing and timely filing any and all required Tax Returns for or with respect to such Transfer Taxes with any and all appropriate Tax Authorities.

 

2.5                                Carrybacks .

 

(a)                                  The carryback of any loss, credit, or other Tax Item from any Post-Offering Taxable Period shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Code and Treasury Regulations (and any applicable state, local or foreign laws).

 

(b)                                  Subject to Section 2.5(d), in the event that any member of the Venator Group realizes any loss, credit or other Tax Item in a Post-Offering Taxable Period of such member, such member may elect to carry back such Tax Item to a Pre-Offering Taxable Period or a Straddle Period of Huntsman or the Huntsman Group.  Huntsman shall cooperate with Venator and such member in amending the relevant Tax Return or seeking any Tax Refund from the appropriate Tax Authority that reasonably would result from such carryback (including by

 

7



 

filing an amended Tax Return), at Venator’s cost and expense.  To the extent not reflected in an adjustment to Venator Taxes pursuant to Sections 2.1 and 2.3, Venator shall be entitled to any Tax Refund that is directly and exclusively attributable to such carryback, and Huntsman shall be entitled to any Tax Refund to which Venator is not entitled pursuant to this Section 2.5(b).

 

(c)                                   Subject to Section 2.5(d), in the event that any member of the Huntsman Group realizes any loss, credit or other Tax Item in a Post-Offering Taxable Period of such member, such member may elect to carry back such loss, credit or other Tax Item to a Pre-Offering Taxable Period or a Straddle Period of such member.  Venator shall cooperate with Huntsman and such member in seeking from the appropriate Tax Authority any Tax Refund that reasonably would result from such carryback (including by filing an amended Tax Return), at Huntsman’s cost and expense.  To the extent not reflected in an adjustment to Huntsman Taxes pursuant to Sections 2.2 and 2.3, Huntsman shall be entitled to any Tax Refund resulting from such carryback.

 

(d)                                  Except as otherwise provided by applicable law, if any Tax Item of Huntsman or Venator would be eligible to be carried back or carried forward to the same Pre-Offering Taxable Period (had such carryback been the only carryback to such taxable period), any Tax Refund resulting therefrom shall be allocated between Huntsman and Venator proportionately based on the relative amounts of the Tax Refunds to which Huntsman and Venator, respectively, would have been entitled.

 

2.6                                Refunds .

 

(a)                                  Tax Refunds for Huntsman’s Account .  Huntsman shall be entitled to receive and retain all Tax Refunds with respect to any Huntsman Taxes (“ Huntsman Tax Refunds ”).  If Venator or any member of the Venator Group receives a Tax Refund (or any reduction in Tax Liability by means of offset or otherwise) constituting a Huntsman Tax Refund, within 15 days of receipt of such Huntsman Tax Refund, Venator shall pay to Huntsman an amount that is equal to the Huntsman Tax Refund, plus any interest paid by the applicable Tax Authority with respect to such Huntsman Tax Refund, less any Taxes payable by Venator or any Venator Group member in connection with the receipt of such Huntsman Tax Refund.

 

(b)                                  Tax Refunds for Venator’s Account .  Venator shall be entitled to receive and retain all Tax Refunds with respect to any Venator Taxes (“ Venator Tax Refunds ”).  If Huntsman or any member of the Huntsman Group receives a Tax Refund (or any reduction in Tax Liability by means of offset or otherwise) constituting a Venator Tax Refund, within 15 days of receipt of such Venator Tax Refund, Huntsman shall pay to Venator an amount that is equal to the Venator Tax Refund, plus any interest paid by the applicable Tax Authority with respect to such Venator Tax Refund, less any Taxes payable by Huntsman or any Huntsman Group member in connection with the receipt of such Venator Tax Refund.  For the avoidance of doubt, to the extent that any adjustments or carrybacks result in an increase in the amount of foreign tax credits available for use for U.S. federal income tax purposes by any member of the Huntsman Group, such increased utilization will not be treated as a refund or offset for purposes of this Section 2.6.

 

8



 

(c)                                   To the extent the amount of any Tax Refund is reduced by a Tax Authority or a Tax proceeding, such reduction shall be allocated to the party to which such Tax Refund was allocated pursuant to this Section 2.6.

 

2.7                                Payment of Additional Basis Tax Benefits .

 

(a)                                  Within [10] days following the determination of the Cumulative Actual Tax Liability of the Venator Group for each Post-Offering Taxable Period ending on or before December 31, 2028, Venator shall deliver to Huntsman a schedule calculating the Additional Basis Tax Benefit, if any, along with reasonable supporting documentation with respect to such calculation (such schedule to be delivered even if the Additional Basis Tax Benefit is zero).  Any dispute with respect to such calculation will be resolved pursuant to Section 7.1.

 

(b)                                  With respect to each Post-Offering Taxable Period ending on or before December 31, 2028 in which there is an Additional Basis Tax Benefit, within 30 days following the delivery of the schedule described in Section 2.7(a) for such Post-Offering Taxable Period, (i) if the Additional Basis Tax Benefit on such schedule is greater than the Additional Basis Tax Benefit on the schedule delivered under Section 2.7(a) with respect to the immediately preceding Post-Offering Taxable Period (which, for the first Post-Offering Taxable Period shall be deemed to be zero), then Venator shall pay to Huntsman an amount equal to such increase, or (ii) if the Additional Basis Tax Benefit on such schedule is less than the Additional Basis Tax Benefit delivered with respect to the immediately preceding Post-Offering Taxable Period, then Huntsman shall pay to Venator an amount equal to such decrease.

 

ARTICLE III
PREPARATION AND FILING OF TAX RETURNS

 

3.1                                Preparation of Tax Returns — Huntsman’s Responsibility .

 

(a)                                  Huntsman will prepare or cause to be prepared, and will file or cause to be filed, (i) all Group Returns and (ii) all Huntsman Separate Returns.

 

(b)                                  Subject to Section 2.4, Huntsman will have the right, with respect to any Tax Return described in Section 3.1(a), to determine: (i) the manner in which such Tax Return will be prepared and filed, including the method of accounting, positions, conventions, and principles of taxation to be used and the manner in which any Tax Item will be reported; (ii) whether any extensions may be requested; (iii) the elections that will be made by Huntsman, any member of the Huntsman Group, Venator, or any member of the Venator Group on such Tax Return; (iv) whether any amended Tax Returns will be filed; (v) whether any claims for refund will be made; (vi) whether any refunds will be paid by way of refund or credited against any liability for the related Tax; and (vii) whether to retain outside firms to prepare or review such Tax Returns.

 

(c)                                   Huntsman shall provide Venator with a copy of any Tax Return that includes Venator, any member of the Venator Group, or any Directly Owned Venator Assets promptly upon the filing of such Tax Returns.

 

9


 

3.2                                Preparation of Tax Returns — Venator’s Responsibility .

 

(a)                                  Venator will prepare or cause to be prepared, and will file or cause to be filed, all Venator Separate Returns.

 

(b)                                  Venator will have the right, with respect to any Tax Return described in Section 3.2(a), to determine: (i) the manner in which such Tax Return will be prepared and filed, including the method of accounting, positions, conventions, and principles of taxation to be used and the manner in which any Tax Item will be reported; (ii) whether any extensions may be requested; (iii) the elections that will be made by Venator or any member of the Venator Group on such Tax Return; (iv) whether any amended Tax Returns will be filed; (v) whether any claims for refund will be made; (vi) whether any refunds will be paid by way of refund or credited against any liability for the related Tax; and (vii) whether to retain outside firms to prepare or review such Tax Returns.

 

3.3                                Agent .  Subject to the other applicable provisions of this Agreement, Venator hereby irrevocably designates, and agrees to cause each member of the Venator Group to so designate, Huntsman as its sole and exclusive agent and attorney-in-fact to take such action (including execution of documents) as Huntsman, in its sole discretion, may deem appropriate in any and all matters (including Audits) relating to any Tax Return described in Section 3.1(a).

 

3.4                                Manner of Tax Return Preparation .  Unless otherwise required by applicable law, the parties hereby agree to prepare and file all Tax Returns for any Pre-Offering Taxable Period and any Straddle Period in a manner consistent with past practice regarding such preparation and filings.  All Tax Returns shall be filed on a timely basis (taking into account applicable extensions) by the party responsible for filing such Tax Returns under this Agreement.

 

3.5                                Amended Returns and Claims .  Except as expressly provided herein, without the prior written consent of Huntsman, no formal or informal claim or request shall be filed with any Tax Authority, or with any administrative agency or court, for the adjustment, refund, or credit of Taxes with respect to any Group Return, including (i) any amended Tax Return claiming an adjustment to the Taxes as reported on such Group Tax Return or, if applicable, as previously adjusted, (ii) any claim for equitable recoupment or other offset, and (iii) any claim for refund or credit of Taxes previously paid.

 

3.6                                Payment of Tax Liability .  The party responsible for filing a Tax Return under Article III will be responsible for paying to the relevant Tax Authority the entire amount of the Tax Liability reflected on such Tax Return; provided , however , that the party liable for such Tax Liability pursuant to Article II shall pay the Taxes for which it is liable to the filing party as set forth in Article V.

 

ARTICLE IV

COVENANTS

 

4.1                                Tax Assistance and Cooperation .

 

(a)                                  Cooperation .  Huntsman and Venator will each cooperate fully (and each will cause its respective affiliates to cooperate fully) with all reasonable requests from the other party in connection with the preparation and filing of Tax Returns, claims for refund and Audits concerning issues or other matters covered by this Agreement.  The party requesting assistance

 

10



 

hereunder shall reimburse the other for reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred in providing such assistance.  Such cooperation will include, without limitation:

 

(i)                                      the retention until the expiration of the applicable statute of limitations, and extensions, if any, thereof, and the provision upon request, of Tax Returns, books, records (including information regarding ownership and income Tax basis of property), documentation and other information relating to any Tax Returns, including accompanying schedules, related work papers, and documents relating to rulings or other determinations by Tax Authorities;

 

(ii)                                   the execution of any document that may be necessary or reasonably helpful in connection with any Audit, or the filing of a Tax Return or refund claim by a member of the Huntsman Group or the Venator Group, including certification, to the best of a party’s knowledge, of the accuracy and completeness of the information it has supplied; and

 

(iii)                                the use of the party’s reasonable best efforts to obtain any documentation that may be necessary or reasonably helpful in connection with any of the foregoing.  Each party will make its employees and facilities available on a reasonable and mutually convenient basis in connection with the foregoing matters.

 

(b)                                  Failure to Perform .  If a party fails to comply with any of its obligations set forth in Section 4.1(a) upon reasonable request and notice by the other party, and such failure results in the imposition of additional Taxes, the nonperforming party will be liable in full for such additional Taxes.

 

(c)                                   Retention of Records .  A party intending to dispose of documentation of Huntsman (or any Huntsman affiliate) or Venator (or any Venator affiliate), including without limitation, books, records, Tax Returns and all supporting schedules and information relating thereto prior to the expiration of the statute of limitations (including any waivers or extensions thereof) of the taxable year or years to which such documentation relates, shall provide written notice to the other party describing the documentation to be destroyed or disposed of sixty (60) business days prior to taking such action.  The other party may arrange to take delivery of the documentation described in the notice at its expense during the succeeding sixty (60) day period.

 

ARTICLE V

PAYMENTS

 

5.1                                Payments .  Not later than thirty (30) days following the provision of the Venator Tax or Huntsman Tax computation to Venator as provided in Section 2.3, or a Tax Return relating to Transfer Taxes filed by the Venator Group in accordance with Section 2.4, Venator will pay Huntsman or Huntsman will pay Venator, as appropriate, any payment required to be made pursuant to Article II.

 

5.2                                Treatment of Payments .  Unless otherwise required by any Final Determination, Huntsman agrees (and shall cause the Huntsman Group) and Venator agrees (and shall cause the Venator Group) to treat any payments made between parties pursuant to this Agreement as adjustments to the liabilities assumed (or deemed assumed) or consideration transferred in

 

11



 

connection with the acquisition by Venator as part of the Internal Reorganization of the portion of the Pigments Business to which the payment relates.

 

5.3                                Interest .  Payments pursuant to this Agreement that are not made within the period prescribed in this Agreement (the “ Payment Period ”) and that are not otherwise setoff against amounts owed by one party to the other party will bear interest for the period from and including the date immediately following the last date of the Payment Period through and including the date of payment at a per annum rate equal to the applicable rate for large corporate underpayments set forth in Section 6621(c) of the Code.  Such interest will be payable at the same time as the payment to which it relates and will be calculated on the basis of a year of 365 days and the actual number of days for which due.

 

ARTICLE VI

AUDITS AND TAX PROCEEDINGS

 

6.1                                In General .  Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, the party filing a Tax Return (the “ Filing Party ”) will have the exclusive right, in its sole discretion, to control, contest, and represent the interests of Huntsman, any member of the Huntsman Group, Venator, and any member of the Venator Group in any Audit relating to such Tax Return and to resolve, settle or agree to any deficiency, claim or adjustment proposed, asserted or assessed in connection with or as a result of any such Audit.  The Filing Party’s rights will extend to any matter pertaining to the management and control of an Audit, including execution of waivers, choice of forum, scheduling of conferences and the resolution of any Tax Item.  Any costs incurred in handling, settling, or contesting an Audit will be borne by the Filing Party.

 

6.2                                Notice .  As soon as practicable after a party receives a written notice from a Tax Authority of a proposed adjustment to a Tax Item for a Pre-Offering Taxable Period or a Straddle Period (irrespective of whether such proposed adjustment would reasonably be expected to give rise to an indemnification obligation or other liability (including a liability for Tax) under this Agreement), such party shall notify the other party of such proposed adjustment, and thereafter shall promptly forward to the other party copies of notices and material communications with any Tax Authority relating to such proposed adjustment; provided , however , that the failure to provide such notice will not release the Indemnifying Party from any of its obligations under this Agreement except to the extent that such Indemnifying Party is materially prejudiced by such failure.

 

ARTICLE VII

MISCELLANEOUS

 

7.1                                Dispute Resolution .  In the event that Huntsman and Venator disagree as to the amount or calculation of any payment to be made under this Agreement, or the interpretation or application of any provision under this Agreement, the parties will attempt in good faith to resolve such dispute.  If such dispute is not resolved within ninety (90) business days following the commencement of the dispute, Huntsman and Venator will jointly retain an Independent Firm, reasonably acceptable to both parties, to resolve the dispute; provided , however , that in order to pursue any such dispute resolution under this Section 7.1, the owing party shall either (a) first pay to the owed party, or place in an escrow reasonably satisfactory to the owed party

 

12



 

pending resolution of such dispute, an amount equal to the payment which is the subject of such dispute, or (b) deliver to the owed party a written opinion of an independent law or accounting firm reasonably acceptable to both parties, substantially to the effect that with respect to such dispute the owing party is more likely than not to prevail in its entirety in the dispute resolution proceeding.  The Independent Firm will act as an arbitrator to resolve all points of disagreement and its decision will be final and binding upon all parties involved.  Following the decision of the Independent Firm, Huntsman and Venator will each take or cause to be taken any action necessary to implement the decision of the Independent Firm.  The fees and expenses relating to the Independent Firm will be borne by the party that does not prevail in the dispute resolution proceeding.

 

7.2                                Governing Law .  This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware, without reference to its conflicts of laws principles.

 

7.3                                Changes in Law .  Any reference to a provision of the Code or a law of another jurisdiction will include a reference to any applicable successor provision or law.  If, due to any change in applicable law or regulations or their interpretation by any court of law or other governing body having jurisdiction subsequent to the date of this Agreement, performance of any provision of this Agreement or any transaction contemplated thereby becomes impracticable or impossible, the parties hereto will use their commercially reasonable efforts to find and employ an alternative means to achieve the same or substantially the same result as that contemplated by such provision.

 

7.4                                Confidentiality .  Each party will hold and cause its directors, officers, employees, advisors and consultants to hold in strict confidence, unless compelled to disclose by judicial or administrative process or, in the opinion of its counsel, by other requirements of law, all information (other than any such information relating solely to the business or affairs of such party) concerning the other parties hereto furnished to it by such other party or its representatives pursuant to this Agreement (except to the extent that such information can be shown to have been (a) in the public domain through no fault of such party, (b) later lawfully acquired from other sources not known to be under a duty of confidentiality by the party to which it was furnished, or (c) independently developed), and each party will not release or disclose such information to any other Person, except its directors, officers, employees, auditors, attorneys, financial advisors, bankers and other consultants who will be advised of and agree to be bound by the provisions of this Section 7.4.  Each party will be deemed to have satisfied its obligation to hold confidential information concerning or supplied by the other party if it exercises the same care as it takes to preserve confidentiality for its own similar information.

 

7.5                                Amendment, Modification, or Termination .  This Agreement may be amended, modified, supplemented or terminated only by a written agreement signed by all of the parties hereto.

 

7.6                                Term/Time Limit for Claims .  This Agreement shall commence on the date hereof and shall continue in effect until otherwise agreed to in writing by Huntsman and Venator, or their successors; provided , however, this Agreement otherwise shall terminate 90 days after the expiration of the statute of limitations with respect to all the Group Returns, Huntsman Separate

 

13



 

Returns and Venator Separate Returns addressed in this Agreement.  Notwithstanding the forgoing, this Agreement shall not terminate until all obligations and liabilities of the parties arising under this Agreement have been paid in full, including payments under Section 2.7.

 

7.7                                Notices .  All notices and other communications required or permitted to be given hereunder shall be in writing and will be deemed given upon (a) a transmitter’s confirmation of a receipt of a facsimile transmission (but only if followed by confirmed delivery of a standard overnight courier the following business day or if delivered by hand the following business day), (b) confirmed delivery of a standard overnight courier or when delivered by hand or (c) the expiration of five business days after the date mailed by certified or registered mail (return receipt requested), postage prepaid, to the parties at the following addresses (or at such other addresses for a party as may be specified by like notice):

 

If to Huntsman or any member of the Huntsman Group, to:

 

Huntsman Corporation

10003 Woodloch Forest Drive

The Woodlands, Texas 77380

Attention:  [ · ]

[Email]

 

If to Venator or any member of the Venator Group, to:

 

Venator Materials PLC

[Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park,

Stockton-On-Tees, TS22 5FD, United Kingdom]

Attention:  [ · ]

[Email]

 

or to such other address as any party hereto may have furnished to the other parties by a notice in writing in accordance with this Section 7.7.

 

7.8                                Complete Agreement .  This Agreement, with the other transaction agreements and other documents referred to herein, constitutes the entire agreement between the parties hereto with respect to the subject matter hereof and supersedes all previous negotiations, commitments and writings with respect to such subject matter as well as any prior tax sharing agreements or arrangements between a member of the Huntsman Group, on the one hand, and a member of the Venator Group, on the other hand.  In the case of any conflict between the terms of this Agreement and the terms of the Separation Agreement or any other transaction agreement, the terms of this Agreement will be applicable.

 

7.9                                Interpretation .  The Article and Section headings contained in this Agreement are solely for the purpose of reference, are not part of the agreement of the parties hereto and should not in any way affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement.

 

7.10                         Counterparts .  This Agreement may be executed in counterparts, each of which will be deemed an original, but all of which together will constitute one and the same instrument.

 

14



 

7.11                         Successors and Assigns; No Third-Party Beneficiaries .  This Agreement and all of the provisions hereof will be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their successors and permitted assigns, but neither this Agreement nor any of the rights, interests and obligations hereunder may be assigned by any party hereto without the prior written consent of the other parties.  This Agreement is solely for the benefit of Huntsman and Venator and their respective subsidiaries, affiliates, successors and assigns, and is not intended to confer upon any third parties any rights or remedies hereunder.

 

7.12                         Authorization .  Each of Huntsman and Venator hereby represents and warrants that it has the power and authority to execute, deliver and perform this Agreement, that this Agreement has been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the part of such party, that this Agreement constitutes a legal, valid and binding obligation of each such party and that the execution, delivery and performance of this Agreement by such party does not contravene or conflict with any provision of law or of its charter or bylaws or any agreement, instrument or order binding on such party.

 

7.13                         Arbitration .  To the extent any dispute under this Agreement cannot be resolved pursuant to Section 7.1, Huntsman and Venator shall resolve such dispute pursuant to the arbitration provisions set forth in Article VI of the Separation Agreement.

 

7.14                         Waiver of Jury Trial .  Each of the parties hereto irrevocably and unconditionally waives all right to trial by jury in any litigation, claim, action, suit, arbitration, inquiry, proceeding, investigation or counterclaim (whether based in contract, tort or otherwise) arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the actions of the parties hereto in the negotiation, administration, performance and enforcement thereof.

 

7.15                         Waivers .  Except as provided in this Agreement, no action taken pursuant to this Agreement, including any investigation by or on behalf of any party, will be deemed to constitute a waiver by the party taking such action of compliance with any representations, warranties, covenants or agreements contained in this Agreement.  The waiver by any party hereto of a breach of any provision hereunder will not operate or be construed as a waiver of any prior or subsequent breach of the same or any other provision hereunder.

 

7.16                         Specific Performance .  The parties hereto agree that irreparable damage would occur in the event any provision of this Agreement was not performed in accordance with the terms hereof and that the parties will be entitled to specific performance of the terms hereof, in addition to any other remedy at law or in equity.

 

7.17                         Setoff .  All payments to be made by any party under this Agreement may be netted against payments due to such party under this Agreement, but otherwise shall be made without setoff, counterclaim or withholding, all of which are hereby expressly waived.

 

7.18                         Severability .  If any provision of this Agreement or the application thereof to any Person or circumstance is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void or unenforceable, the remaining provisions hereof, or the application of such provision to Persons or circumstances other than those as to which it has been held invalid or unenforceable, will remain in full force and effect and will in no way be affected, impaired or invalidated thereby, so

 

15



 

long as the economic or legal substance of the transactions contemplated hereby is not affected in any manner adverse to any party.

 

7.19                         Effective Date .  This Agreement is effective as of the Effective Time.

 

16



 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has caused this Tax Matters Agreement to be executed on its behalf by its officers thereunto duly authorized, all as of the day and year first written above.

 

 

HUNTSMAN CORPORATION

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

Name:

[ · ]

 

Title:

[ ·

 

 

 

 

 

V ENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

 

 

 

 

By:

 

 

Name:

[ · ]

 

Title:

[ · ]

 

[Signature Page to Tax Matters Agreement]

 




Exhibit 10.4

 

FORM OF

VENATOR MATERIALS

2017 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

 

SECTION  1.    Purpose of the Plan .

 

The Venator Materials 2017 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended from time to time (the “ Plan ”), is intended to promote the interests of Venator Materials PLC, a public company limited by shares and incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (the “ Company ”), by encouraging Employees , Consultants and Directors to acquire or increase their equity interest in the Company and to provide a means whereby they may develop a sense of proprietorship and personal involvement in the development and financial success of the Company, and to encourage them to remain with and devote their best efforts to the business of the Company, thereby advancing the interests of the Company and its stockholders.  The Plan is also contemplated to enhance the ability of the Company and its Subsidiaries to attract and retain the services of individuals who are essential for the growth and profitability of the Company.

 

The Plan (disregarding the Annex) is intended to satisfy the definition of “employees share scheme” for the purpose of section 1166 of the Companies Act; provided , however , that Annex A under which Consultants and Directors are eligible to benefit is not intended to satisfy the definition of an “employees share scheme” for the purpose of section 1166 of the Companies Act.

 

SECTION  2.    Definitions .

 

As used in the Plan, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:

 

Affiliate ” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries controls, is controlled by or is under common control with, the Person in question.  As used herein, the term “control” means the possession, direct or indirect, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.

 

“Award ” shall mean an Option, Restricted Stock Award, Performance Award, Phantom Share, SAR, Bonus Stock Award, Dividend Equivalent, Substitute Award, or Other Stock-Based Award.

 

Award Agreement ” shall mean any written or electronic agreement, contract, instrument, or document evidencing any Award, which may, but need not, be executed or acknowledged by a Participant and shall also include any other written instrument (including any employment, severance, change of control or similar agreement or arrangement) that establishes any terms, conditions, restrictions and/or limitations applicable to Awards in addition to those established by this Plan and by the Committee’s exercise of its administrative powers, including any such instrument entered into prior to or following the Effective Date.

 



 

Board ” shall mean the Board of Directors of the Company.

 

Bonus Stock ” shall mean Ordinary Shares granted as a bonus pursuant to Section 6(f).

 

Change of Control ” shall mean: (a) with respect to an Award that is subject to section 409A of the Code, the occurrence of any event which constitutes a change of control under section 409A of the Code, including any regulations promulgated pursuant thereto; and (b) with respect to any other Award, the occurrence of any of the following events:  (i) the acquisition by any “person,” as such term is used in sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, other than the Company, an Affiliate of the Company or a Company employee benefit plan, of “beneficial ownership” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 20% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors; or (ii) the consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other form of corporate transaction or series of transactions, in each case, with respect to which Persons who were the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to such reorganization, merger or consolidation or other transaction do not, immediately thereafter, own more than 20% of the combined voting power entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the reorganized, merged or consolidated company’s then outstanding voting securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership immediately prior to such event; or (iii) the sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all the Company’s assets (other than any such sale or disposition involving solely the Company and one or more Persons that are “affiliates” of the Company (within the meaning of Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act)); or (iv) a change in the composition of the Board, as a result of which fewer than a majority of the directors are Incumbent Directors; or (v) the approval by the Board or the stockholders of the Company of a complete or substantially complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company; or (c) with respect to all Awards: (i) a court-sanctioned compromise or arrangement between the Company and its shareholders under section 899 of the Companies Act, resulting in a change of Control of the Company; (ii) the obtaining by any Person (or group of Persons acting in concert) of Control of the Company as the result of making a general offer to (A) acquire all of the issued Ordinary Share capital of the Company, which is made on a condition that, if it is satisfied, such acquiring Person or Persons, as applicable, will have Control of the Company or (B) acquire all of the shares in the Company which are of the same class as the Ordinary Shares; (iii) any Person (or group of Persons acting in concert) becoming bound or entitled under Sections 979 to 982 or Sections 983 to 985 of the Companies Act (or similar law of another jurisdiction) to acquire shares of the same class as the Ordinary Shares.

 

Code ” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

 

Committee ” shall mean the Board or any committee of the Board designated, from time to time, by the Board to act as the Committee under the Plan; provided , however , that, unless otherwise determined by the Board, the Committee shall consist solely of two or more directors, each of whom shall be a Qualified Member (except to the extent administration of this Plan by “outside directors” is not then required in order to qualify for tax deductibility under section 162(m) of the Code).

 



 

Companies Act ” shall mean the U.K. Companies Act of 2006, as amended.

 

Consultant ” shall mean any individual who is not an Employee or a Director and who provides consulting, advisory or other similar services to the Company or a Subsidiary.

 

Control ” shall have the same meaning as in section 995 of the U.K. Income Tax Act 2007.

 

Covered Employee ” shall mean an Employee who is designated by the Committee, at the time of grant of a Performance Award, as likely to be a “covered employee” within the meaning of section 162(m) of the Code.

 

Director ” shall mean any member of the Board who is not an Employee.

 

Dividend Equivalent ” shall mean a right, granted to an Employee  under Section 6(g), to receive cash, Ordinary Shares, other Awards or other property equal in value to dividends paid with respect to a specified number of shares of Ordinary Shares, or other periodic payments.

 

Effective Date ” shall mean [ · ], 2017.

 

Employee ” shall mean any employee (whether or not also an officer) of the Company or a Subsidiary (having, for this purpose, the meaning given to it in Section 1159 of the Companies Act.

 

Exchange Act ” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

 

Fair Market Value ” shall mean, as of any applicable date, the closing sales price for a Share on the New York Stock Exchange (or such other national securities exchange which constitutes the principal trading market for the Shares) for the applicable date as reported by such reporting service approved by the Committee; provided , however , that if Shares shall not have been quoted or traded on such applicable date, Fair Market Value shall be determined based on the last preceding date on which they were quoted or traded, or, if deemed appropriate by the Committee, in such other manner as it may determine to be appropriate, including in accordance with the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules.  In the event the Ordinary Shares are not publicly traded at the time a determination of its Fair Market Value is required to be made hereunder, the determination of Fair Market Value shall be made in good faith by the Committee, taking into account all factors the Committee deems appropriate, including without limitation the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules.

 

Incentive Stock Option ” or “ ISO ” shall mean an Option granted under Section 6(a) of the Plan that is intended to qualify as an “incentive stock option” under section 422 of the Code or any successor provision thereto.

 

Incumbent Directors ” shall mean directors who either (A) are directors of the Company as of the Effective Date, or (B) are elected, or nominated for election, thereafter to the Board with the affirmative votes of at least a majority of the Incumbent Directors at the time of such election or nomination, but “Incumbent Director” shall not include an individual whose election

 



 

or nomination is in connection with (i) an actual or threatened election contest (as such terms are used in Rule 14a-11 of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act) or an actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board or (ii) a plan or agreement to replace a majority of the then Incumbent  Directors.

 

Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan ” shall mean Annex A to the Plan, as amended from time to time.

 

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules ” shall mean the limitations or requirements of section 409A of the Code and the guidance and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

Non-Qualified Stock Option ” or “ NQO ” shall mean an Option granted under Section 6(a) of the Plan that is not intended to be an Incentive Stock Option.

 

Option ” shall mean an option entitling the holder to acquire Shares upon payment of the exercise price. Incentive Stock Options and Non-Qualified Stock Options may be granted under the Plan.

 

Other Stock-Based Award ” shall mean an Award granted under Section 6(i) of the Plan.

 

Participant ” shall mean any Employee who was granted an Award under the Plan that remains outstanding.

 

Performance Award ” shall mean any right granted under Section 6(c) of the Plan.

 

Person ” shall mean any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, government or political subdivision thereof or other entity.

 

Personal Data ” shall mean any personal information that could identify a Participant, including but not limited to, the Participant’s name, date of birth, home address, contact details (including any telephone number and e-mail address), National Insurance number (or equivalent), Awards under the Plan or awards under any other employee share scheme operated by the Company and any data collected as part of any documents the Participant completes when participating in the Plan.

 

Phantom Shares ” shall mean the right to receive Shares or cash equal to the Fair Market Value of such Shares, or any combination thereof, as determined by the Committee, at the end of a specified deferral period (which may or may not be coterminous with the Restricted Period of the Award), which is granted pursuant to Section 6(d) of the Plan.

 

Qualified Member ” shall mean a member of the Committee who is a “nonemployee director” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3(b)(3) and an “outside director” within the meaning of Treasury regulation 1.162-27 under section 162(m) of the Code.

 



 

Restricted Period ” shall mean the period established by the Committee with respect to an Award during which the Award either remains subject to forfeiture or is not exercisable by the Participant.

 

Restricted Stock ” shall mean any Share, prior to the lapse of restrictions thereon, granted under Section 6(b) of the Plan.

 

Rule 16b-3 ” shall mean Rule 16b-3 promulgated by the SEC under the Exchange Act, or any successor rule or regulation thereto as in effect from time to time.

 

SAR ” shall mean a stock appreciation right granted under Section 6(e) of the Plan that entitles the holder to receive the excess of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the relevant date over the exercise price of such SAR, with the excess paid in cash and/or in Shares in the discretion of the Committee, subject to the limitation on cash payments in Section 4(d).

 

SEC ” shall mean the Securities and Exchange Commission, or any successor thereto.

 

Shares ” or “ Ordinary Shares ” shall mean the ordinary shares in the capital of the Company, $0.001 par value per share.

 

Subsidiary ” shall mean, except as where noted otherwise herein, any entity (whether a corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability company or other entity) in which the Company owns a majority of the voting power of the entity directly or indirectly, and any other entity in which the Company has an economic interest that is designated by the Committee as a Subsidiary for purposes of the Plan, except (i) with respect to the grant of an ISO, in which case the term Subsidiary shall mean any “subsidiary corporation” of the Company as defined in section 424 of the Code, or (ii) in the case of Options or SARs that are intended to comply with Treasury regulation 1.409A-1(b)(5)(i), in which case the term Subsidiary shall mean an entity in a chain of entities in which each entity has a “controlling interest” in another entity in the chain, starting with the Company.

 

Substitute Award ” shall mean an Award granted pursuant to Section 6(h) of the Plan.

 

U.S. Participant ” shall mean a Participant the grant of an Award to whom or the exercise of an Award by whom is subject to taxation in the United States.

 

SECTION  3.    Administration .

 

(a)                                  General . The Plan shall be administered by the Committee.  A majority of the Committee shall constitute a quorum, and the acts of the members of the Committee who are present at any meeting thereof at which a quorum is present, or acts unanimously approved by the members of the Committee in writing, shall be the acts of the Committee.  Subject to the terms of the Plan and applicable law, and in addition to other express powers and authorizations conferred on the Committee by the Plan, the Committee shall have full power and authority to:  (i) designate Participants; (ii) determine the type or types of Awards to be granted to a Participant; (iii) determine the number of Shares to be covered by, or with respect to which payments, rights, or other matters are to be calculated in connection with, Awards; (iv) determine the terms and conditions of any Award; (v) determine whether, to what extent, and under what

 



 

circumstances Awards may be settled or exercised in cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property, or canceled, forfeited, or suspended and the method or methods by which Awards may be settled, exercised, canceled, forfeited, or suspended; (vi) interpret and administer the Plan and any instrument or agreement relating to an Award made under the Plan; (vii) establish, amend, suspend, or waive such rules and regulations and appoint such agents as it shall deem appropriate for the proper administration of the Plan; (viii) amend any Award under the Plan as provided in Section 7(b); and (ix) make any other determination and take any other action that the Committee deems necessary or desirable for the administration of the Plan.  Unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan, all designations, determinations, interpretations, and other decisions under or with respect to the Plan or any Award shall be within the sole discretion of the Committee, may be made at any time and shall be final, conclusive, and binding upon all Persons, including the Company and any of its Affiliates and Subsidiaries, any Participant, any holder or beneficiary of any Award, any stockholder and any other Person.  The Committee may, subject to any applicable law, regulatory, securities exchange or other similar restrictions, delegate to one or more officers of the Company the authority to grant Awards to Employees and Consultants who are not, and whose family members are not, subject to section 16(b) of the Exchange Act (for this purpose “family members” include the brothers or sisters (whether by whole or half blood), spouse, ancestors, or lineal descendants of the Employee or Consultant, and any spouse of any of the foregoing).  The Committee may impose such limitations and restrictions, in addition to any required limitations or restrictions, as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion.  Any Award granted pursuant to such a delegation shall be subject to all of the provisions of the Plan concerning such Award.

 

(b)                                  Participants in Non-U.S. Jurisdictions . Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan to the contrary, to comply with applicable laws in countries other than the United States in which the Company or any of its Affiliates or Subsidiaries operates or has employees, directors or other service providers from time to time, or to ensure that the Company complies with any applicable requirements of foreign securities exchanges, the Committee, in its sole discretion, shall have the power and authority to: (i) determine which of the Company’s Affiliates or Subsidiaries shall be covered by the Plan; (ii) determine which Eligible Persons outside the United States are eligible to participate in the Plan; (iii) modify the terms and conditions of any Award granted to Eligible Persons outside the United States to comply with applicable foreign laws or listing requirements of any foreign exchange; (iv) establish sub-plans and modify exercise procedures and other terms and procedures, to the extent such actions may be necessary or advisable (any such sub-plans and/or modifications shall be attached to the Plan as appendices), provided , however , that no such sub-plans and/or modifications shall increase the share limitations contained in Section 4(a) below without the approval of the Company’s shareholders (to the extent required by applicable law and listing requirements); and (v) take any action, before or after an Award is granted, that it deems advisable to comply with any applicable governmental regulatory exemptions or approval or listing requirements of any such foreign securities exchange.  For purposes of the Plan, all references to foreign laws, rules, regulations or taxes shall be references to the laws, rules, regulations and taxes of any applicable jurisdiction other than the United States or a political subdivision thereof.

 



 

SECTION  4.    Shares Available for Awards .

 

(a)                                  Shares Available .  Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c), the number of Shares that may be issued with respect to Awards (including pursuant to the exercise of Incentive Stock Options) under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall be [ · ] Ordinary Shares.  To the extent an Award has been or is settled with the delivery of Shares, such Shares shall not be available for issuance under future Awards under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.  If an Award is surrendered, exchanged, forfeited, settled in cash or otherwise lapses, expires, terminates or is canceled without the actual delivery of Shares, including (i) Shares forfeited with respect to Restricted Stock that are not acquired into the Company’s treasury shares or are cancelled, (ii) Shares repurchased by the Company in accordance with Section 6(b) at the same price paid by the Participant; or (iii) the number of Shares withheld or surrendered in payment of any exercise or purchase price of an Award or taxes relating to Awards, then the Shares covered by such Award, to the extent of such surrender, exchange, forfeiture, expiration, lapse, termination, cancellation or payment in cash, shall again be Shares that may be issued with respect to Awards granted under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing provisions, if any such Shares could not again be available for Awards to a particular Covered Employee under applicable law or regulation, such Shares shall be available exclusively for Awards to Participants who are not subject to such limitation.

 

(b)                                  Sources of Shares Deliverable Under Awards .  Any Shares delivered pursuant to an Award may, to the extent permitted by the laws of England and Wales, consist in whole or in part of authorized and unissued Shares, treasury shares or shares acquired by or gifted to the trustees of an employee benefit trust established in connection with the Plan.

 

(c)                                   Anti-dilution Adjustments .  With respect to any “equity restructuring” event (such as a stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock split or similar event with respect to Shares) that could result in an additional compensation expense to the Company pursuant to the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, Accounting Standards Codification, Topic 718—Stock Compensation, as the same may be amended or superseded from time to time (“ ASC Topic 718 ”), if adjustments to Awards with respect to such event were discretionary, the Committee shall equitably adjust the number and type of Shares (or other securities or property) covered by each outstanding Award and the terms and conditions, including the exercise price and performance criteria (if any), of such Award to equitably reflect such restructuring event. With respect to any other similar event that would not result in an ASC Topic 718 accounting charge if the adjustment to Awards with respect to such event were subject to discretionary action, the Committee shall have complete discretion to adjust Awards in such manner as it deems appropriate with respect to such other event.  In the event the Committee makes any adjustment pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this Section 4(c), the Committee shall make a corresponding and proportionate adjustment to the maximum number and the type of Shares (or other securities or property) with respect to which Awards may be granted under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan after such event as provided in Section 4(a) and the individual participant annual grant limits with respect to Awards (other than dollar-denominated Awards) as provided in Section 4(d).  Any such adjustments pursuant to this Section 4(c) shall be evidenced by written addendums to the Plan and Award Agreements prepared by the Company and, with respect to Options, shall be in accordance with the Treasury regulations concerning Incentive Stock Options.

 



 

(d)                                  Individual Participant Limits .  Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c), the maximum number of Share-denominated Awards that may be granted under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan to any individual during any calendar year during any part of which this Plan is in effect shall not relate to more than 3,000,000 Ordinary Shares.  The maximum amount of dollar-denominated Awards that may be granted to any individual during any calendar year may not exceed $15,000,000.

 

SECTION  5.    Eligibility .

 

Any Employee shall be eligible to be designated a Participant by the Committee. Awards may also be granted under an Annex or sub-plan to the Plan. Directors and Consultants are not eligible to be granted Awards under the main rules of the Plan, and shall only be eligible to participate in Awards granted under Annex A to the Plan.

 

SECTION  6.    Awards .

 

(a)                                  Options .  Subject to the provisions of the Plan, the Committee shall have the authority to determine Employees to whom Options shall be granted, the number of Shares to be covered by each Option, the exercise price therefor and the conditions and limitations applicable to the exercise of the Option, including the applicable Restricted Period and/or performance objectives, if any, and the following terms and conditions and such additional terms and conditions, as the Committee shall determine, that are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan.

 

(i)                                      Exercise Price .  The exercise price per Share purchasable under an Option shall be determined by the Committee at the time the Option is granted; provided , however , that except with respect to a Substitute Award, the exercise price shall not be less than the Fair Market Value per Share on the effective date of such grant, and provided , further , however , that the exercise price of any Option, including a Substitute Award, shall not be lower than the par value per Share on the effective date of such grant.

 

(ii)                                   Time and Method of Exercise .  The Committee shall determine and provide in the Award Agreement the time or times at which an Option may be exercised in whole or in part, and the method or methods by which, and the form or forms (which may include, without limitation, cash, check acceptable to the Company, Shares already-owned by the Participant, a “cashless-broker” exercise (through procedures approved by the Company), other securities or other property, a note (to the extent permitted by applicable law), a withholding or “netting” of Shares from the Option if it is not an Incentive Stock Option, or any combination thereof, having a Fair Market Value on the exercise date equal to the relevant exercise price) in which payment of the exercise price with respect thereto may be made or deemed to have been made.  An Option may not be exercised on or after the earliest of the following to take place:

 

(A)                                the date falling 10 years following grant;

 

(B)                                the expiry of the period of six months following a Change of Control falling within paragraphs c(i) or (ii) of its definition; and

 



 

(C)                                the expiry of the period during which any Person (or groups of Persons acting in concert) is bound or entitled under Sections 979 to 982 or Sections 983 to 985 of the Companies Act 2006 (or similar law of another jurisdiction) to acquire shares of the same class as the Ordinary Shares.

 

(iii)                                Incentive Stock Options .  No Incentive Stock Option may be granted unless or until the requirements of Section 422(b)(i) of the Code has been met.  An Incentive Stock Option may be granted only to an Employee who is an employee of the Company or any parent or subsidiary corporation (as defined in section 424 of the Code) at the time the Option is granted and must be granted within 10 years from the date the Plan was approved by the Board or the stockholders of the Company, whichever is earlier.  To the extent that the aggregate Fair Market Value (determined at the time the respective Incentive Stock Option is granted) of Ordinary Shares with respect to which Incentive Stock Options are exercisable for the first time by an individual during any calendar year under all incentive stock option plans of the Company and its parent and subsidiary corporations exceeds $100,000, or such Options fail to constitute Incentive Stock Options for any reason, such purported Incentive Stock Options shall be treated as Non-Qualified Stock Options.  The Committee shall determine, in accordance with applicable provisions of the Code, Treasury regulations and other administrative pronouncements, which of a Participant’s purported Incentive Stock Options do not constitute Incentive Stock Options and shall notify the Participant of such determination as soon as reasonably practicable after such determination.  No Incentive Stock Option shall be granted to an individual if, at the time the Option is granted, such individual owns stock possessing more than 10% of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of the Company or of its parent or subsidiary corporation, within the meaning of section 422(b)(6) of the Code, unless (i) at the time such Option is granted the option price is at least 110% of the Fair Market Value of the Ordinary Shares subject to the Option and (ii) such Option by its terms is not exercisable after the expiration of five years from the date of grant.  An Incentive Stock Option shall not be transferable otherwise than by will or the laws of descent and distribution, and shall be exercisable during the Participant’s lifetime only by such Participant or the Participant’s guardian or legal representative.  The terms of any Incentive Stock Option granted under the Plan shall comply and be interpreted consistently in all respects with the provisions of section 422 of the Code, or any successor provision, and any regulations promulgated thereunder.

 

(iv)                               Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries, whether voluntary or involuntary (and including without limitation termination on account of death, disability, or retirement), all such Participant’s Options as to which the Restricted Period has not elapsed as of the date of termination shall be forfeited, and all such Participant’s Options as to which the Restricted Period has elapsed as of the date of termination shall remain exercisable for the period of time set forth in the Award Agreement, after which time any such Options which remain unexercised shall be forfeited. However, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining restrictions with respect to a Participant’s Options.

 



 

(b)                                  Restricted Stock .  The Committee shall have the authority to grant Awards of Restricted Stock to Employees upon such terms and conditions as the Committee may determine, including any provision that is required by Section 6(j)(vi) of this Plan.

 

(i)                                      Terms and Conditions .  Each Restricted Stock Award shall be subject to the fulfillment during the Restricted Period of such conditions, including performance objectives, if any, as the Committee may specify at the date of grant, which conditions may lapse separately or in combination at such times, under such circumstances, in such installments or otherwise, as the Committee may determine. During the Restricted Period, the Participant shall have such rights of ownership in or with respect to the Restricted Stock as set forth in the Award Agreement, subject to Section 6(b)(ii) below concerning dividends.

 

(ii)                                   Dividends .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement, dividends and distributions made with respect to a share of Restricted Stock shall be held by the Company in a bookkeeping account for the Participant (credited either as cash (without interest) or as Phantom Shares), which account shall be subject to the same vesting and forfeiture restrictions as the share of Restricted Stock with respect to which such dividends and distributions are made.

 

(iii)                                Registration .  Any Restricted Stock may be evidenced in such manner as the Committee shall deem appropriate, including, without limitation, book-entry registration or issuance of a stock certificate or certificates.  In the event any stock certificate is issued in respect of Restricted Stock granted under the Plan, such certificate shall be registered in the name of the Participant and shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Restricted Stock.

 

(iv)                               Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries during an applicable Restricted Period, all Restricted Stock subject to such Restricted Period shall (at the direction of the Committee) be transferred by the Participant to the company or to a person nominated by the Company, in either case, at a cash price per share equal to the price paid by the Participant for such Restricted Stock or such other amount as may be specified in the applicable Award Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining forfeiture and other restrictions with respect to such Participant’s Restricted Stock if such termination of service is (x) due to the Participant’s death, disability, or retirement, or (y) an involuntary termination by the Company or Subsidiary other than for “cause,” or a termination by the Participant for a “good reason,” as such terms are defined in the Award Agreement or an employment or severance agreement with (or a plan of) the Company or a Subsidiary, (the foregoing collectively being a “ Permitted Waiver Event ”); provided , however , if the Award is to a Covered Employee and intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code, such waiver may be only upon a termination due to death or disability or a Change of Control of the Company or other event permitted under section 162(m) of the Code.

 


 

 

(v)           Transfer Restrictions .  During the Restricted Period, Restricted Stock will be subject to such limitations on transfer as necessary to comply with section 83 of the Code if section 83 is applicable to such award and the Participant is a U.S. Participant.

 

(c)           Performance Awards .  The Committee shall have the authority to determine the Employees who shall receive a Performance Award, pursuant to which the right of such individual to receive a grant, or to exercise or receive settlement, of any Award available under this Plan, and the timing thereof, may be subject to performance objectives as specified by the Committee.  In addition, a Performance Award may be denominated as a cash amount at the time of grant and confer on the Participant the right to receive payment upon the achievement of such performance objectives during such Restricted Periods as the Committee shall establish with respect to the Award.

 

(i)            Terms and Conditions .  Subject to the terms of the Plan (including, without limitation, Section 6(j)(vi) of the Plan) and any applicable Award Agreement, the Committee shall determine the performance objectives to be achieved during the applicable Restricted Period, the length of the Restricted Period, the number of Shares or the amount of cash subject to any Performance Award and the amount of any payment to be made upon achievement of the performance objectives applicable to any Performance Award.

 

(ii)           Performance Awards to Covered Employees .  If the Committee determines that a Performance Award to be granted to an Employee who is designated by the Committee as likely to be a Covered Employee should qualify as “performance-based compensation” for purposes of section 162(m) of the Code, the performance objectives for such Performance Award shall consist of one or more performance criteria set forth in Section 6(j)(viii) of this Plan. Performance objectives applicable to such a Performance Award shall be objective and shall otherwise meet the requirements of section 162(m) of the Code, including the requirement that the level or levels of performance targeted by the Committee resulting in the achievement of performance objectives be “substantially uncertain” at the time the Committee actually establishes the performance objectives.  Performance objectives shall be established not later than 90 days after the beginning of any Restricted Period applicable to such Performance Awards, or at such other date as may be required or permitted for “performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code.  The Committee may establish a Performance Award pool, which shall be an unfunded pool based upon the achievement of performance objectives related to one or more of the performance criteria set forth in Section 6(j)(viii) hereof, for purposes of measuring the performance of the Company in connection with such Performance Awards.  All determinations by the Committee with respect to Awards that are intended to constitute “performance-based compensation” within the meaning of section 162(m) of the Code shall be made in writing.  The Committee may not delegate any responsibility relating to such Performance Awards.

 

(iii)          Payment of Performance Awards .  Performance Awards are earned as of the date the Committee determines the applicable performance objectives have been satisfied.  Performance Awards may be paid (in cash and/or in Shares, in the sole discretion of the Committee) in a lump sum or in installments promptly as of or following

 



 

the date the Committee determines the applicable performance objectives have been satisfied, in accordance with procedures established by the Committee with respect to such Award.  The Committee may exercise its discretion to reduce or increase the amounts payable under any Performance Awards, except with respect to Performance Awards to Covered Employees that are intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code, in which case, the Committee may, in its discretion, reduce the amount of settlement otherwise to be made in connection with such Performance Awards but may not exercise discretion to increase any such amount.

 

(iv)          Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries during the applicable Restricted Period, whether voluntary or involuntary (and including without limitation termination on account of death, disability, or retirement), all Performance Awards shall be forfeited by the Participant.  However, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver upon a Permitted Waiver Event would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining restrictions with respect to such Participant’s Performance Award; provided , however , if the Award to a Covered Employee is intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code, such waiver may be only upon a termination due to death or disability or a Change of Control of the Company or other event permitted under section 162(m) of the Code.

 

(d)           Phantom Shares .  The Committee shall have the authority to grant Awards of Phantom Shares to Employees upon such terms and conditions as the Committee may determine, including any provision that is required by Section 6(j)(vi) of this Plan.

 

(i)            Terms and Conditions .  Each Phantom Share Award shall constitute an agreement by the Company to issue or transfer a specified number of Shares or pay an amount of cash equal to the Fair Market Value of a specified number of Shares, or a combination thereof, to the Participant in the future, subject to the fulfillment during the Restricted Period of such conditions, including performance objectives, if any, as the Committee may specify at the date of grant.  The Participant shall not have any rights of ownership in or with respect to the Phantom Shares. Phantom Shares shall be earned upon the lapse of the Restricted Period and shall be settled upon expiration of a specified deferral period (which may or may not be coterminous with the Restricted Period).  The Committee shall cause the corresponding number of Shares to be issued or transferred, or shall cause the corresponding amount to be paid promptly thereafter. The Company may also grant Phantom Share Awards in the form of “restricted stock unit” awards.

 

(ii)           Dividend Equivalents .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement, with respect to a Phantom Share, the economic equivalent of all dividends and other distributions paid on a Share during the Restricted Period shall be credited by the Company in a cash bookkeeping account (without interest) or in additional Phantom Shares, which account shall be subject to the same vesting and forfeiture restrictions as the related Phantom Share.

 



 

(iii)          Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise provided in an applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries during the applicable Restricted Period, all Phantom Shares subject to such Restricted Period shall be forfeited by the Participant.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver upon a Permitted Waiver Event would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining forfeiture and other restrictions with respect to such Participant’s Phantom Shares; provided , however , if the Award to a Covered Employee is intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code, such waiver may be only upon a termination due to death or disability or a Change of Control of the Company or such other event permitted by section 162(m) of the Code.

 

(e)           SARs .  The Committee shall have the authority to determine the Employees to whom SARs shall be granted, the number of SARs to be granted, the exercise price and the conditions and limitations applicable to the exercise of the SAR, including the applicable Restricted Period and/or performance objectives, if any, and the following terms and conditions and such additional terms and conditions, as the Committee shall determine, that are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Plan (including Section 6(j)(vi) of the Plan).  SARs may be granted in tandem with or separately from an Option.

 

(i)            Exercise Price .  The exercise price per SAR shall be determined by the Committee at the time the SAR is granted, but, except with respect to a Substitute Award, shall not be less than the Fair Market Value per Share on the effective date of such grant.

 

(ii)           Time of Exercise .  The Committee shall determine and provide in the Award Agreement the time or times at which an SAR may be exercised in whole or in part.  The maximum term for an SAR shall be 10 years.

 

(iii)          Method of Payment .  Unless provided in the Award Agreement, the Committee shall determine, in its discretion, whether the SAR shall be paid in cash, shares of Ordinary Shares or a combination thereof.

 

(iv)          Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise provided in an applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries, whether voluntary or involuntary (and including without limitation termination on account of death, disability, or retirement), all such Participant’s SARs as to which the Restricted Period has not elapsed as of the date of termination shall be forfeited, and all such Participant’s SARs as to which the Restricted Period has elapsed as of the date of termination shall remain exercisable for the period of time set forth in the Award Agreement, after which time any such SARs which remain unexercised shall be forfeited.  However, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining restrictions with respect to a Participant’s SARs.

 

(f)            Bonus Stock .  The Committee is authorized to grant Ordinary Shares as a bonus, or to grant Ordinary Shares or other Awards in lieu of obligations to pay cash or deliver other property under this Plan or under other plans or compensatory arrangements, provided that, in

 



 

the case of Participants subject to section 16 of the Exchange Act, the amount of such grants remains within the discretion of the Committee to the extent necessary to ensure that acquisitions of Bonus Stock or other Awards are exempt from liability under section 16(b) of the Exchange Act.  Bonus Stock or other Awards granted hereunder shall be subject to such other terms as shall be determined by the Committee, including Section 6(j)(vi) of the Plan.  In the case of any grant of Ordinary Shares to an officer of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries in lieu of salary or other cash compensation, the number of shares granted in place of such compensation shall be reasonable, as determined by the Committee.

 

(g)           Dividend Equivalents .  The Committee is authorized to grant Dividend Equivalents to an Employees entitling the Participant to receive cash, Ordinary Shares, other Awards, or other property equal in value to dividends paid with respect to a specified number of shares of Ordinary Shares, or other periodic payments.  Dividend Equivalents may be awarded on a free-standing basis or in connection with another Award.  The Committee may provide that Dividend Equivalents shall be paid or distributed when accrued or shall be deemed to have been reinvested in additional Ordinary Shares, Awards, or other investment vehicles, and subject to such restrictions on transferability and risks of forfeiture, as the Committee may specify.

 

(h)           Substitute Awards .  Awards may be granted under the Plan in substitution of similar awards held by individuals who become Employees as a result of a merger, consolidation or acquisition by the Company or a Subsidiary of another entity or the assets of another entity.  Such Substitute Awards, if an Option or SAR, may have an exercise price less than the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of such substitution, to the extent necessary to preserve the value of the award, and will become exercisable upon the lapse of the Restricted Period.  Such Substitute Awards, if Restricted Stock or Phantom Shares, shall be earned by the Participant, and promptly issued, transferred, or paid, upon the lapse of the Restricted Period or other specified deferral period.

 

(i)            Other Stock-Based Award .  The Committee may also grant to Employees an Other Stock-Based Award, which shall consist of a right which is an Award denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on or related to, Shares as is deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purposes of the Plan, which may include convertible or exchangeable debt securities, other rights convertible or exchangeable into Ordinary Shares, purchase rights for Ordinary Shares, Awards with value and payment contingent upon performance of the Company or any other factors designated by the Committee, and Awards valued by reference to the book value of Ordinary Shares or the value of securities of or the performance of specified Subsidiaries of the Company.  Subject to the terms of the Plan, the Committee shall determine the terms and conditions, including any vesting terms and/or performance objectives, of any such Other Stock-Based Award.  Cash awards, as an element of or supplemental to any other Award under this Plan, may also be granted pursuant to this Section 6(i).

 

(j)            General .

 

(i)            Award Agreements.   An Award Agreement may be delivered to each Participant to whom an Award is granted.  The terms of the Award Agreement shall be as determined by the Committee, so long as they are consistent with the Plan.

 



 

(ii)           Awards May Be Granted Separately or Together .  Subject to Section 7(a), Awards may, in the discretion of the Committee, be granted either alone or in addition to, or in tandem with, or in substitution or exchange for, any other Award granted under the Plan or any award granted under any other plan of the Company or any Subsidiary.  Such additional, tandem and substitute or exchanged Awards may be granted at any time.  If an Award is granted in substitution or exchange for another Award, the Committee shall require the surrender of such other Award in consideration for the grant of the new Award.

 

(iii)          Limits on Transfer of Awards .

 

(A)          Except as provided in paragraph (C) below, each Award, and each right under any Award, shall be exercisable only by the Participant during the Participant’s lifetime, or if permissible under applicable law, by the Participant’s guardian or legal representative as determined by the Committee.

 

(B)          Except as provided in paragraph (C) below or in a qualified domestic relations order, no Award and no right under any such Award may be assigned, alienated, pledged, attached, sold or otherwise transferred or encumbered by a Participant in any manner (whether for value or other consideration) other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and any such purported prohibited assignment, alienation, pledge, attachment, sale, transfer or encumbrance shall be void and unenforceable against the Company or any Subsidiary.

 

(C)          To the extent specifically approved in writing by the Committee, an Award (other than an Incentive Stock Option) may be transferred to immediate family members or related family trusts, limited partnerships or similar family entities on such terms and conditions as the Committee may establish or approve.

 

(iv)          Terms of Awards, Minimum Vesting .  The term of each Award shall be for such period as may be determined by the Committee, provided the term of an Option and SAR shall be limited as provided in Sections 6(a)(ii) and (iii) and Section 6(e)(ii), respectively.  The minimum vesting or forfeiture restriction period with respect to Awards that are Options, SARs or other Awards for which a Participant pays (or the value or amount payable under the Award is reduced by) an amount equal to or exceeding the Fair Market Value of the Stock determined as of the date of grant shall be one year, subject to the Committee’s authority pursuant to Sections 6(a)(iv), 6(b)(iv), 6(c)(iv), 6(d)(iii), 6(e)(iv), 6(j)(x), and 7 of the Plan in the event of a Participant’s termination of employment or service or upon the occurrence of certain events; provided , that the foregoing one-year minimum vesting or forfeiture restriction period shall not apply to the grant of any such Awards with respect to an aggregate number of Shares that does not exceed 5% of the total share pool specified in Section 4(a)(1) hereof.

 

(v)           Share Certificates .  All certificates for Shares or other securities of the Company or any Subsidiary delivered under the Plan pursuant to any Award or the exercise thereof shall be subject to such stop transfer orders and other restrictions as the

 



 

Committee may deem advisable under the Plan or the rules, regulations, and other requirements of the SEC, any stock exchange upon which such Shares or other securities are then listed, and any applicable federal or state laws, and the Committee may cause a legend or legends to be put on any such certificates to make appropriate reference to such restrictions.

 

(vi)          Consideration for Awards .  Awards may be granted for no cash consideration or for such consideration as the Committee determines, including, without limitation, such minimal cash consideration as may be required by applicable law or regulation. In the event that the Committee determines that an applicable law or regulation requires a Participant to provide consideration to the Company in connection with the grant, vesting or settlement of an Award, the Award Agreement shall set forth the terms and conditions of such consideration required of the Participant, which shall not be greater than the par value per Share underlying the Award. Such consideration shall be paid by the Participant in cash, or the Company may deduct the applicable amount from other cash compensation owed to the Participant.

 

(vii)         Delivery of Shares or other Securities and Payment by Participant of Consideration .  No Shares or other securities shall be delivered pursuant to any Award until payment in full of any amount required to be paid pursuant to the Plan or the applicable Award Agreement (including, without limitation, any exercise price or tax withholding) is received by the Company.  Such payment may be made by such method or methods and in such form or forms as the Committee shall determine, including, without limitation, cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property, withholding of Shares, cashless exercise with simultaneous sale, or any combination thereof, provided that the combined value, as determined by the Committee, of all cash and cash equivalents and the Fair Market Value of any such Shares or other property so tendered to the Company, as of the date of such tender, is at least equal to the full amount required to be paid pursuant to the Plan or the applicable Award Agreement to the Company.

 

(viii)        Performance Criteria . The Committee shall establish performance goals applicable to those Awards that are intended by the Committee to qualify as “performance-based compensation” as described in section 162(m)(4)(C) of the Code, where such goals are required in order to so comply.  Such performance goals shall be established based upon one or more of the following performance criteria: (A) earnings per share; (B) revenues; (C) cash flow; (D) cash flow returns; (E) free cash flow; (F) operating cash flow; (G) net cash flow; (H) working capital; (I) return on net assets; (J) return on assets; (K) return on investment; (L) return on capital; (M) return on equity; (N) economic value added; (O) gross margin; (P) contribution margin; (Q) operating margin; (R) net income; (S) pretax earnings; (T) pretax earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization (“ EBITDA ”); (U) pretax earnings after interest expense and before incentives, service fees, and extraordinary or special items; (V) operating income; (W) total stockholder return; (X) Share price; (Y) book value; (Z) enterprise value; (AA) debt reduction; (BB) costs or expenses; (CC) objective safety measures (including recordable incident rates and lost time incident rates); (DD) objective environmental measures (including gas releases); (EE) sales; (FF) market share; (GG)

 



 

objective productivity measures; (HH) revenue or earnings per employee; (II) objective measures related to implementation or completion of significant projects or processes; (JJ) significant and objective strategic business criteria, consisting of one or more objectives based on meeting specified market penetration, geographic business expansion, customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, human resources management, supervision of litigation, information technology, and goals relating to acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and similar transactions, and budget comparisons; and (KK) significant and objective individual criteria, including any of the foregoing performance goals, the implementation of policies and plans, the negotiation of transactions, the development of long-term business goals, formation of joint ventures, research or development collaborations, and the completion of other corporation transactions.  Such goals (other than stock price and earnings per share) may be expressed in terms of the Company, a Subsidiary, a parent, department, division, business unit, or product, as determined by the Committee, and may be absolute, relative to one or more other companies, or relative to one or more indexes.  A performance goal need not be based upon an increase or positive result under a business criterion and may, for example, be based upon limiting economic losses or maintaining the status quo.  Which factor or factors to be used with respect to any grant, and the weight to be accorded thereto if more than one factor is used, shall be determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, at the time of grant.  To the extent consistent with section 162(m) of the Code with respect to Awards intended to constitute “performance-based compensation,” the Committee (A) shall appropriately adjust any evaluation of performance under a performance goal to eliminate the effects of charges for restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items and all items of gain, loss or expense determined to be extraordinary or unusual in nature or related to the disposal of a segment of a business or related to a change in accounting principle, all as determined in accordance with applicable accounting provisions, as well as the cumulative effect of accounting changes, in each case as determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles or identified in the Company’s financial statements or notes to the financial statements; and (B) may appropriately adjust any evaluation of performance under a performance goal to exclude any of the following that occurs during the applicable performance period: (1) asset write-downs, (2) litigation, claims, judgments or settlements, (3) the effect of changes in tax law or other such laws or provisions affecting reported results, (4) accruals for reorganization and restructuring programs, or (5) accruals of any amounts for payment under this Plan or any other compensation arrangement maintained by the Company.

 

(ix)          Change of Control .  Unless otherwise provided for in an Award Agreement and subject to Section 6(j)(x) below, upon a Change of Control, all then-outstanding Awards shall vest in accordance with Section 6(j)(ix)(A) below, except to the extent that another Award meeting the requirements of Section 6(j)(ix)(B) (a “ Replacement Award ”) is provided to the Participant to replace such Award (the “ Replaced Award ”).

 

(A)          Change of Control Vesting .  Upon a Change of Control, a Participant’s then-outstanding Awards that are not vested and (1) as to which vesting depends solely on the satisfaction of a service obligation by the Participant to the Company or any Subsidiary shall become fully vested; or (2) as

 



 

to which vesting depends upon the satisfaction of one or more performance objectives shall immediately vest and all performance objectives shall be calculated based on either, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, (a) actual performance against the stated performance objectives as of the date of the Change of Control or (b) deemed target performance pro-rated based on the number of days elapsed in the applicable performance period until the date of the Change of Control.

 

(B)          Replacement Awards .  An Award shall meet the conditions of this Section 6(j)(ix)(B) (and hence qualify as a Replacement Award) if: (1) it is of the same type as the Replaced Award (or, it is of a different type than the Replaced Award, provided that the Committee, as constituted immediately prior to the Change of Control, finds such type acceptable); (2) it has an intrinsic value at least equal to the value of the Replaced Award; (3) it relates to publicly traded equity securities of the Company or its successor in the Change of Control or another entity that is affiliated with the Company or its successor following the Change of Control; (4) its terms and conditions comply with the terms of this Section 6(j)(ix)(B) set forth below; and (5) its other terms and conditions are not less favorable to the Participant than the terms and conditions of the Replaced Award (including the provisions that would apply in the event of a subsequent Change of Control). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Replacement Award may take the form of a continuation of the Replaced Award if the requirements of the preceding sentence are satisfied. The determination of whether the conditions of this Section 6(j)(ix)(B) are satisfied shall be made by the Committee, as constituted immediately before the Change of Control, in its sole discretion. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Committee may determine the value of Awards and Replacement Awards that are stock options or stock appreciation rights by reference to either their intrinsic value or their fair value. Upon an involuntary termination of service of a Participant occurring at any time following the Change of Control, other than for cause, all Replacement Awards held by the Participant (a) as to which vesting depends solely on the satisfaction of a service obligation by the Participant to the Company or any Subsidiary shall become fully vested; or (b) as to which vesting depends upon the satisfaction of one or more performance objectives shall immediately vest and all performance objectives shall be calculated based on either, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, (i) actual performance against the stated performance objectives as of the date of the Change of Control or (ii) deemed target performance pro-rated based on the number of days elapsed in the applicable performance period until the date of the Change of Control.

 

(x)           Unusual Transactions or Events .  In the event of any distribution (whether in the form of cash, Shares, other securities, or other property), recapitalization, reorganization, merger, spin-off, combination, repurchase, or exchange of Shares or other securities of the Company, or other corporate transaction or event or any unusual or nonrecurring transactions or events (including without limitation a Change of Control) affecting the Company, any affiliate of the Company, or the financial statements of the

 



 

Company or any affiliate, or of changes in applicable laws, regulations or accounting principles, and whenever the Committee determines that action is appropriate in order to prevent the dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be made available under the Plan or with respect to any Award under the Plan, to facilitate such transactions or events or to give effect to such changes in laws, regulations or principles, the Committee, in its sole discretion and on such terms and conditions as it deems appropriate, may take any one or more of the following actions (unless the discretion to take such action would cause an Award to a Covered Employee to not qualify as “performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code if intended to so qualify):

 

(A)          To provide for either (i) the termination of any such Award in exchange for an amount of cash, if any, equal to the amount that would have been attained upon the exercise of such Award or realization of the Participant’s rights (and, for the avoidance of doubt, if as of the date of the occurrence of such transaction or event the Committee determines in good faith that no amount would have been attained upon the exercise of such Award or realization of the Participant’s rights, then such Award may be terminated by the Company without payment) or (ii) the replacement of such Award with other rights or property of substantially equivalent value selected by the Committee in its sole discretion;

 

(B)          To provide that such Award be assumed by the successor or survivor corporation, or a parent or subsidiary thereof, or shall be substituted for by similar options, rights or awards covering the stock of the successor or survivor corporation, or a parent or subsidiary thereof, with appropriate adjustments as to the number and kind of shares and prices;

 

(C)          To make adjustments in the number and type of shares of Ordinary Shares (or other securities or property) subject to outstanding Awards, and in the number and kind of outstanding Awards and/or in the terms and conditions of (including the grant or exercise price), and the criteria included in, outstanding Awards and Awards which may be granted in the future, provided that, with respect to outstanding Awards such adjustments shall result in substantially equivalent value to the affected Participants; and

 

(D)          To provide that such Award shall be exercisable (within such period of time as the Committee may specify, for example, but not by way of limitation, in connection with a Change of Control, the Committee may specify that unexercised, vested Options or SARs terminate upon consummation of the Change of Control), or payable or fully vested with respect to all Shares covered thereby, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Plan or the applicable Award Agreement.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to an above event that is an “equity restructuring” event that would be subject to a compensation expense pursuant ASC Topic 718, the provisions in Section 4(c) shall control to the extent they are in conflict with the discretionary provisions of this Section 6(j)(x).

 


 

SECTION  7.    Amendment and Termination .

 

Except to the extent prohibited by applicable law:

 

(a)                                  Amendments to the Plan .  The Board or the Committee may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue, or terminate the Plan without the consent of any stockholder, Participant, other holder or beneficiary of an Award, or other Person (but stockholder approval will be required to the extent required by applicable law or listing requirements); provided , however , notwithstanding any other provision of the Plan or any Award Agreement, without the approval of the stockholders of the Company no such amendment, alteration, suspension, discontinuation, or termination shall be made that would (i) increase the total number of Shares that may be issued under Awards (including ISOs) granted under the Plan, except as provided in Sections 4(c) and  6(j)(x) of the Plan, (ii) increase the class of individuals eligible to receive Awards under the Plan or (iii) materially increase the benefits available under the Plan.  In addition, except in connection with a corporate transaction involving the Company (including, without limitation, any stock dividend, stock split, extraordinary cash dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, or exchange of shares) and except as provided in Section 6(j)(x) of this Plan, the terms of outstanding Awards may not be amended to reduce the exercise price of outstanding Options or SARs or cancel outstanding Options or SARs in exchange for cash, other Awards or Options or SARs with an exercise price that is less than the exercise price of the original Options or SARs without stockholder approval.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, without the consent of an affected Participant, no Board or Committee action pursuant to this Section 7(a) may materially or adversely affect the rights of such Participant under any previously granted and outstanding Award.

 

(b)                                  Amendments to Awards .  Subject to Section 7(a) above and any express restrictions in the Plan concerning the acceleration of the vesting of Awards, the Committee may accelerate or waive any conditions or rights under, amend any terms of, or alter any Award theretofore granted, provided that, subject to Section 7(c) below, no change in any Award shall materially adversely affect the rights of a Participant under the Award without the consent of such Participant.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, and subject to Section 7(c) below, (i) with respect to any Award to a Covered Employee that is intended to qualify as “performance-based compensation” under section 162(m) of the Code, no adjustment shall be authorized to the extent such adjustment would cause the Award to fail to so qualify, and (ii) no acceleration of the terms of payment of any Award that provides for a deferral of compensation under the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules shall be authorized if such acceleration would subject a Participant to additional taxes under the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules.

 

(c)                                   Amendments to Preserve or Achieve Tax Treatment and Comply with Law .  Notwithstanding Section 7(b) above, the Board or the Committee may amend or alter any terms of any outstanding Award as it deems advisable in order to preserve or achieve its intended tax treatment or to comply with applicable law, provided that such amendments or alterations shall result in substantially equivalent value to the affected Participants.

 



 

(d)                                  Substantially Equivalent Value .  With respect to amendments, alterations, or adjustments of any Award, “substantially equivalent value” may be determined without consideration of any tax consequences of the amendment, alteration, or adjustment.

 

SECTION  8.    General Provisions .

 

(a)                                  No rights to Awards .  No Participant or other Person shall have any claim to be granted any Award, there is no obligation for uniformity of treatment of Participants, or holders or beneficiaries of Awards and the terms and conditions of Awards need not be the same with respect to each recipient.

 

(b)                                  Tax Matters .

 

(i)                                      The Company or any Subsidiary is authorized to withhold from any Award, from any payment due or transfer made under any Award (including from a distribution of Shares) or from any compensation or other amount owing to a Participant the amount (in cash, Shares, or other property) of any applicable taxes required to be withheld by the Company or Subsidiary in respect of the Award, its exercise, the lapse of restrictions thereon, or any payment or transfer under the Award and to take such other action as may be necessary in the opinion of the Company or Subsidiary to satisfy all of its obligations for the payment of such taxes.  In addition, the Committee may provide, in an Award Agreement, that the Participant may direct the Company to satisfy such Participant’s tax withholding obligations through the withholding of Shares otherwise to be acquired upon the exercise or payment of such Award; provided , that, in such case, the number of Shares that shall be so withheld shall be limited to the number of Shares having an aggregate Fair Market Value on the date of withholding equal to the aggregate amount of such tax withholding obligations determined based on an amount that is up to the applicable maximum statutory tax withholding requirements; provided , that the exercise of such discretion by the Committee would not cause an Award otherwise classified as an equity award under ASC Topic 718 to be classified as a liability award under ASC Topic 718.

 

(ii)                                   If permitted by law, the Committee may upon grant of an Award direct that a Participant other than a U.S. Participant will be required as a condition of exercise or vesting at or before the time of exercise or vesting of the Award to enter into an agreement with the Company or any of its Affiliates, as applicable, to allow the Company or any of its Affiliates, as applicable, to recover the applicable National Insurance contribution liability relating to the exercise or vesting of the Award or to enter into a joint election with the Company or any of its Affiliates, as applicable, that the applicable National Insurance contribution liability shall be transferred to the Participant.

 

(iii)                                Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan, each Participant is solely responsible and liable for the satisfaction of all taxes and penalties of any kind and with respect to any tax jurisdiction that may be imposed on or for the account of such Participant in connection with the Plan.

 



 

(c)                                   No Right to Employment or Retention .  The grant of an Award shall not be construed as giving a Participant the right to be retained in the employ of the Company or any Subsidiary or under any other service contract with the Company or any Subsidiary, or to remain on the Board.  Further, the Company or a Subsidiary may at any time dismiss a Participant from employment or terminate any contractual agreement or relationship with any Consultant, free from any liability or any claim under the Plan, unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan, in any Award Agreement or any other agreement or contract between the Company or a Subsidiary and the affected Participant.  If a Participant’s employer ceases to be a Subsidiary, such Participant’s Award or Awards shall continue in full force and effect as if the Participant’s employer were still a Subsidiary, unless and until the Committee, within its discretion, adjusts the Participant’s Award or Awards in any of the manners described in Section 6(j)(x)(A) through (D).

 

(d)                                  Governing Law .  The validity, construction, and effect of the Plan and any rules and regulations relating to the Plan shall be determined in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware and applicable federal law, without application of the conflicts of law principles thereof.

 

(e)                                   Severability .  If any provision of the Plan or any Award is or becomes or is deemed to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any jurisdiction or as to any Person or Award, or would disqualify the Plan or any Award under any law deemed applicable by the Committee, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to conform to the applicable laws, or if it cannot be construed or deemed amended without, in the determination of the Committee, materially altering the intent of the Plan or the Award, such provision shall be stricken as to such jurisdiction, Person or Award and the remainder of the Plan and any such Award shall remain in full force and effect.  If such amendment or striking of such provision adversely affects the value of the Award, the Committee shall cause appropriate action to be taken to provide the affected Participant with substantially equivalent value to the Award in question.

 

(f)                                    Other Laws .  The Committee may refuse to issue or transfer any Shares or other consideration under an Award, permit the exercise of an Award and/or the satisfaction of its tax withholding obligation in the manner elected by the Participant, holder or beneficiary if, acting in its sole discretion, it determines that the issuance or transfer of such Shares or such other consideration, the manner of exercise or satisfaction of the tax withholding obligation might violate any applicable law or regulation, including without limitation, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or entitle the Company to recover the same under section 16(b) of the Exchange Act, and any payment tendered to the Company by a Participant, other holder or beneficiary in connection with the exercise of such Award shall be promptly refunded or refused, as the case may be, to the relevant Participant, holder or beneficiary.  It is the intent of the Company that the grant of any Awards to or other transaction by a Participant who is subject to section 16 of the Exchange Act shall be exempt from such section pursuant to an applicable exemption (except for transactions acknowledged in writing to be non-exempt by such Participant) and, if any provision of this Plan or any Award Agreement does not comply with the requirements of Rule 16b-3 as then applicable to any such transaction, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to the applicable requirements of Rule 16b-3 so that such Participant shall avoid liability under section 16(b) of the Exchange Act.

 



 

(g)                                   No Trust or Fund Created .  Neither the Plan nor any Award shall create or be construed to create a trust or separate fund of any kind or a fiduciary relationship between the Company or any Subsidiary and a Participant or any other Person.  To the extent that any Person acquires a right to receive payments from the Company or any Subsidiary pursuant to an Award, such right shall be no greater than the right of any general unsecured creditor of the Company or any Subsidiary. This Plan shall not constitute an “employee benefit plan” for purposes of section 3(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.

 

(h)                                  Section 409A .  With respect to any Award that is subject to section 409A of the Code, notwithstanding anything in the Plan or the Award Agreement to the contrary such Award shall be construed as necessary to comply with the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules, including, but not limited to, (i) compensation under such Award may not be distributed earlier than as permitted in section 409A(2) of the Code, (2) the time or schedule of payment of such Award may not be accelerated except as provided in the Treasury regulations under section 409A, and (3) no compensation under such Award may be deferred at the Participant’s election or by the Company except as permitted by Code section 409A. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence or any provision in the Plan or an Award Agreement to the contrary, in the event that a “specified employee” (as defined under the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules) becomes entitled to a payment under an Award that would be subject to additional taxes and interest under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Rules if the Participant’s receipt of such payment or benefits is not delayed until the earlier of (A) the date of the Participant’s death, or (B) the date that is six months after the Participant’s “separation from service,” as defined under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Rules (such date, the “ Section 409A Payment Date ”), then such payment or benefit shall not be provided to the Participant until the Section 409A Payment Date.  Any amounts subject to the preceding sentence that would otherwise be payable prior to the Section 409A Payment Date will be aggregated and paid in a lump sum without interest on the Section 409A Payment Date.

 

(i)                                      No Fractional Shares .  No fractional Shares shall be issued or delivered pursuant to the Plan or any Award, and the Committee shall determine whether cash, other securities, or other property shall be paid or transferred in lieu of any fractional Shares or whether such fractional Shares or any rights thereto shall be cancelled, terminated, or otherwise eliminated.

 

(j)                                     Headings .  Headings are given to the Section and subsections of the Plan solely as a convenience to facilitate reference.  Such headings shall not be deemed in any way material or relevant to the construction or interpretation of the Plan or any provision thereof.

 

(k)                                  Undertakings of Certain Subsidiaries .  The Subsidiaries who otherwise agree to the terms of the Plan shall, upon request of the Company, fund the cash portion of any Award for a Participant who is an Employee or Consultant of such Subsidiary.

 

(l)                                      Clawback .  This Plan is subject to any written clawback policies the Company, with the approval of the Board, may adopt.  Any such policy may subject a Participant’s rights and benefits under this Plan to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture or recoupment if certain specified events or wrongful conduct occur, including but not limited to an accounting restatement due to the Company’s material noncompliance with financial reporting regulations or other events or wrongful conduct specified in any such clawback policy, adopted to conform

 



 

to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and rules promulgated thereunder by the SEC, and that the Company determines should apply to this Plan.

 

(m)                              Establishment of Sub-Plans .  The Committee may from time to time establish one or more sub-plans under the Plan for purposes of satisfying applicable blue sky, securities or tax laws of various jurisdictions. The Committee will establish such sub-plans by adopting supplements or appendices to the Plan setting forth (i) such limitations on the Committee’s discretion under the Plan as it deems necessary or desirable and (ii) such additional terms and conditions not otherwise inconsistent with the Plan as it deems necessary or desirable. All such supplements or appendices so established will be deemed to be part of the Plan, but each supplement or appendix will apply only to Participants within the affected jurisdiction (as determined by the Committee).

 

SECTION  9.    Data Protection .

 

(a)                                  The Company and the Committee may process certain Personal Data (whether provided in any documents that the Participant completes in order to participate in the Plan or sourced from the Participant’s employment with any Participating Company) about Participants in connection with the Plan.  For the purpose of this Section 9, references to the “Company” shall include any Subsidiary and/or Company Affiliate that employs the Participant from time to time).  This Section 9 sets out:

 

(i)                                      the Personal Data that the Company and the Committee will hold; and

 

(ii)                                   the purposes for which the Company and the Committee will hold and use that Personal Data.

 

(b)                                  A Participant shall be required to disclose Personal Data in order to receive an Award.  Disclosure may occur pursuant to an Award Agreement or in connection with the administrative processes used by the Company in order to populate the Award Agreement and administer the Award.  If a Participant does not disclose the Personal Data which is required by the Company or the Committee in order to comply with the Plan, the Company and the Committee may not be able to grant an Award to the Participant.

 

(c)                                   The Company and the Committee may collect, use and process Personal Data about a Participant in order to administer or otherwise give effect to the Plan including for the following purposes:

 

(i)                                      to correspond with the Participant and discuss the Plan with the Participant;

 

(ii)                                   to carry out the Participant’s obligations arising from any contracts entered into between the Participant, the Committee and/or the Company;

 

(iii)                                holding, administering and maintaining Participant records, including, but not limited to, details of the Participant’s Awards;

 



 

(iv)                               to support and assist any third parties with whom the Committee or the Company may share the Personal Data of Participants to manage and administer the Plan;

 

(v)                                  to manage and administer the relationship between the Participant and the Committee and the Company;

 

(vi)                               to comply with legal obligations of the Company and the Committee and to comply with instructions the Company and the Committee may receive from any regulatory bodies;

 

(vii)                            to provide information to the Company, the Committee, trustees of any employee benefit trust, registrars, brokers or any administrators of the Plan; and

 

(viii)                         to provide information to bona fide prospective purchasers or merger partners of the Company (including advisers to such prospective purchasers or merger partners), or the business in which the Participant works.

 

(d)                                  The Company and the Committee may, in order to administer or otherwise give effect to the Plan, from time to time share the Personal Data of Participants with:

 

(i)                                      any Company Affiliate or any Subsidiary of the Company that does not employ the Participant;

 

(ii)                                   advisers, brokers or registrars engaged by the Company, the Committee, and any Company Affiliate and/or any Subsidiary of the Company that does not employ the Participant; and/or

 

(iii)                                any third parties that provide services to the Company, the Committee, and any Company Affiliate and/or any Subsidiary of the Company that does not employ the Participant.

 

(e)                                   The Company and the Committee will process the Personal Data of Participants in order to:

 

(i)                                      pursue their legitimate interests of administering, or otherwise giving effect to, the Plan; and/or

 

(ii)                                   fulfill their respective obligations as necessary for the performance of a contract with the Participant (or another Person), or in preparation of entering into a contract with the Participant (or another Person).

 

(f)                                    The Committee will not retain any Personal Data of Participants relating to the Plan.  Any Personal Data of Participants relating to the Plan will be stored by the Company until termination of the Plan.

 

(g)                                   Where the Company and/or the Committee share with, or transfer to, any person the Personal Data of Participants and that person is located outside the European Economic Area, the Company and/or the Committee will ensure that there are in place adequate safeguards for

 



 

such information, including, entering into model contract clauses which have been approved by the European Commission.  Copies of such agreements can be obtained by request from           at the Company.

 

(h)                                  The privacy compliance manager for the Company (and contact details) are:           (email:          ; telephone:             ).

 

(i)                                      Participants have a number of rights in respect of the use by the Company and the Committee of their Personal Data.  These include:

 

(i)                                      the right to object to direct marketing;

 

(ii)                                   the right (subject to certain exclusions) to receive a copy of Personal Data held by the Committee and the Company; and

 

(iii)                                from 25 May 2018, the following rights:

 

(A)                                the right to be forgotten;

 

(B)                                the right to restrict the use of his/her Personal Data by the Company and the Committee;

 

(C)                                the right to object to the way his/her Personal Data is used; and

 

(D)                                the right to object to profiling and automated decision making.

 

Participants who would like any further information about their rights or how to exercise them, should contact          .

 

(j)                                     Participants who are unhappy about the use of Personal Data by the Company or the Committee may make a complaint to the Information Commissioner.  Further information can be found at https://ico.org.uk.

 

SECTION  10.    Effective Date of Plan .

 

This Plan shall become effective as of the Effective Date, subject to approval by the stockholders of the Company as necessary pursuant to applicable laws.

 

SECTION  11.    Term of the Plan .

 

No Award shall be granted under this Plan prior to the date this Plan is approved by the stockholders of the Company.  If so approved, the Plan shall continue until the earliest of (i) [ · ], 2027, (ii) the date the Board terminates the Plan, and (iii) the date Shares are no longer available for Awards under the Plan.  However, unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan or in an applicable Award Agreement, any Award granted prior to such termination, and the authority of the Committee to amend, alter, adjust, suspend, discontinue, or terminate any such Award or to waive any conditions or rights under such Award, shall extend beyond such termination date.

 


 

 

ANNEX A

 

VENATOR MATERIALS

2017 STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

NON-EMPLOYEE STOCK INCENTIVE PLAN

 

SECTION  1.    Purpose of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

This Annex to the Venator Materials 2017 Stock Incentive Plan (as adopted by Venator Materials PLC, a public company limited by shares and incorporated under the laws of England and Wales (the “ Company ”), effective [ · ], 2017, and amended from time to time) (“ Annex A ” or the “ Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan ”) governs the grant of Awards to (1) Directors and (2) Consultants.

 

SECTION  2.    Definitions .

 

As used in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:

 

Affiliate ” means, with respect to any Person, any other Person that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries controls, is controlled by or is under common control with, the Person in question.  As used herein, the term “control” means the possession, direct or indirect, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management and policies of a Person, whether through ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise.

 

“Award ” shall mean an Option, Restricted Stock Award, Performance Award, Phantom Share, SAR, Bonus Stock Award, Dividend Equivalent, Substitute Award, or Other Stock-Based Award.

 

Award Agreement ” shall mean any written or electronic agreement, contract, instrument, or document evidencing any Award, which may, but need not, be executed or acknowledged by a Participant and shall also include any other written instrument (including any employment, severance, change of control or similar agreement or arrangement) that establishes any terms, conditions, restrictions and/or limitations applicable to Awards in addition to those established by this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan and by the Committee’s exercise of its administrative powers, including any such instrument entered into prior to or following the Effective Date.

 

Board ” shall mean the Board of Directors of the Company.

 

Bonus Stock ” shall mean Ordinary Shares granted as a bonus pursuant to Section 6(f) hereof.

 

Change of Control ” shall mean: (a) with respect to an Award that is subject to section 409A of the Code, the occurrence of any event which constitutes a change of control under section 409A of the Code, including any regulations promulgated pursuant thereto; and (b) with respect to any other Award, the occurrence of any of the following events:  (i) the acquisition by any “person,” as such term is used in sections 13(d) and 14(d) of the Exchange Act, other than

 



 

the Company, an Affiliate of the Company or a Company employee benefit plan, of “beneficial ownership” (as defined in Rule 13d-3 under the Exchange Act), directly or indirectly, of securities of the Company representing 20% or more of the combined voting power of the Company’s then outstanding securities entitled to vote generally in the election of directors; or (ii) the consummation of a reorganization, merger, consolidation or other form of corporate transaction or series of transactions, in each case, with respect to which Persons who were the stockholders of the Company immediately prior to such reorganization, merger or consolidation or other transaction do not, immediately thereafter, own more than 20% of the combined voting power entitled to vote generally in the election of directors of the reorganized, merged or consolidated company’s then outstanding voting securities in substantially the same proportions as their ownership immediately prior to such event; or (iii) the sale or disposition by the Company of all or substantially all the Company’s assets (other than any such sale or disposition involving solely the Company and one or more Persons that are “affiliates” of the Company (within the meaning of Rule 12b-2 under the Exchange Act)); or (iv) a change in the composition of the Board, as a result of which fewer than a majority of the directors are Incumbent Directors; or (v) the approval by the Board or the stockholders of the Company of a complete or substantially complete liquidation or dissolution of the Company; or (c) with respect to all Awards: (i) a court-sanctioned compromise or arrangement between the Company and its shareholders under section 899 of the U.K. Companies Act 2006, resulting in a change of Control of the Company; (ii) the obtaining by any Person (or group of Persons acting in concert) of Control of the Company as the result of making a general offer to (A) acquire all of the issued Ordinary Share capital of the Company, which is made on a condition that, if it is satisfied, such acquiring Person or Persons, as applicable, will have Control of the Company or (B) acquire all of the shares in the Company which are of the same class as the Ordinary Shares; (iii) any Person (or group of Persons acting in concert) becoming bound or entitled under Sections 979 to 982 or Sections 983 to 985 of the Companies Act 2006 (or similar law of another jurisdiction) to acquire shares of the same class as the Ordinary Shares.

 

Code ” shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended from time to time, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

 

Committee ” shall mean the Board or any committee of the Board designated, from time to time, by the Board to act as the Committee under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan; provided , however , that, unless otherwise determined by the Board, the Committee shall consist solely of two or more directors, each of whom shall be a Qualified Member (except to the extent administration of this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan by “outside directors” is not then required in order to qualify for tax deductibility under section 162(m) of the Code).

 

Companies Act ” shall mean the U.K. Companies Act of 2006, as amended.

 

Consultant ” shall mean any individual who is not an Employee or a Director and who provides consulting, advisory or other similar services to the Company or a Subsidiary.

 

Control ” shall have the same meaning as in section 995 of the U.K. Income Tax Act 2007.

 



 

Director ” shall mean any member of the Board who is not an Employee.

 

Dividend Equivalent ” shall mean a right, granted under Section 6(g) hereof, to receive cash, Ordinary Shares, other Awards or other property equal in value to dividends paid with respect to a specified number of shares of Ordinary Shares, or other periodic payments.

 

Effective Date ” shall mean [ · ], 2017.

 

Employee ” shall mean any employee (whether or not also an officer) of the Company or a Subsidiary (having, for this purpose, the meaning given to it in Section 1159 of the Companies Act.

 

Exchange Act ” shall mean the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended from time to time, and the rules and regulations thereunder.

 

Fair Market Value ” shall mean, as of any applicable date, the closing sales price for a Share on the New York Stock Exchange (or such other national securities exchange which constitutes the principal trading market for the Shares) for the applicable date as reported by such reporting service approved by the Committee; provided , however , that if Shares shall not have been quoted or traded on such applicable date, Fair Market Value shall be determined based on the last preceding date on which they were quoted or traded, or, if deemed appropriate by the Committee, in such other manner as it may determine to be appropriate, including in accordance with the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules.  In the event the Ordinary Shares are not publicly traded at the time a determination of its Fair Market Value is required to be made hereunder, the determination of Fair Market Value shall be made in good faith by the Committee, taking into account all factors the Committee deems appropriate, including without limitation the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules.

 

Incentive Stock Option ” or “ ISO ” shall mean an Option intended to qualify as an “incentive stock option” under section 422 of the Code or any successor provision thereto.

 

Incumbent Directors ” shall mean directors who either (A) are directors of the Company as of the Effective Date, or (B) are elected, or nominated for election, thereafter to the Board with the affirmative votes of at least a majority of the Incumbent Directors at the time of such election or nomination, but “Incumbent Director” shall not include an individual whose election or nomination is in connection with (i) an actual or threatened election contest (as such terms are used in Rule 14a-11 of Regulation 14A promulgated under the Exchange Act) or an actual or threatened solicitation of proxies or consents by or on behalf of a Person other than the Board or (ii) a plan or agreement to replace a majority of the then Incumbent  Directors.

 

Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan ” shall mean this Annex A, as amended from time to time.

 

Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules ” shall mean the limitations or requirements of section 409A of the Code and the guidance and regulations promulgated thereunder.

 



 

Non-Qualified Stock Option ” or “ NQO ” shall mean an Option granted under Section 6(a) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan that is not intended to be an Incentive Stock Option.

 

Option ” shall mean an option entitling the holder to acquire Shares upon payment of the exercise price. Only Non-Qualified Stock Options may be granted under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

Other Stock-Based Award ” shall mean an Award granted under Section 6(i) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

Participant ” shall mean any Consultant or Director who was granted an Award under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan that remains outstanding.

 

Performance Award ” shall mean any right granted under Section 6(c) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

Person ” shall mean any individual, corporation, partnership, limited liability company, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization, government or political subdivision thereof or other entity.

 

Personal Data ” shall mean any personal information that could identify a Participant, including but not limited to, the Participant’s date of birth, home address, telephone number, e-mail address, National Insurance number (or equivalent), Awards under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or awards under any other employee share scheme operated by the Company.

 

Phantom Shares ” shall mean the right to receive Shares or cash equal to the Fair Market Value of such Shares, or any combination thereof, as determined by the Committee, at the end of a specified deferral period (which may or may not be coterminous with the Restricted Period of the Award), which is granted pursuant to Section 6(d) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

Plan ” shall mean the Venator Materials 2017 Stock Incentive Plan as assumed and adopted by the Company and amended from time to time.

 

Qualified Member ” shall mean a member of the Committee who is a “nonemployee director” within the meaning of Rule 16b-3(b)(3) and an “outside director” within the meaning of Treasury regulation 1.162-27 under section 162(m) of the Code.

 

Restricted Period ” shall mean the period established by the Committee with respect to an Award during which the Award either remains subject to forfeiture or is not exercisable by the Participant.

 

Restricted Stock ” shall mean any Share, prior to the lapse of restrictions thereon, granted under Section 6(b) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 



 

Rule 16b-3 ” shall mean Rule 16b-3 promulgated by the SEC under the Exchange Act, or any successor rule or regulation thereto as in effect from time to time.

 

SAR ” shall mean a stock appreciation right granted under Section 6(e) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan that entitles the holder to receive the excess of the Fair Market Value of a Share on the relevant date over the exercise price of such SAR, with the excess paid in cash and/or in Shares in the discretion of the Committee, subject to the limitation on cash payments in Section 4(d) hereof.

 

SEC ” shall mean the Securities and Exchange Commission, or any successor thereto.

 

Shares ” or “ Ordinary Shares ” shall mean the ordinary shares in the capital of the Company, $0.001 par value per share.

 

Subsidiary ” shall mean, except as where noted otherwise herein, any entity (whether a corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability company or other entity) in which the Company owns a majority of the voting power of the entity directly or indirectly, and any other entity in which the Company has an economic interest that is designated by the Committee as a Subsidiary for purposes of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, except in the case of Options or SARs that are intended to comply with Treasury regulation 1.409A-1(b)(5)(i), in which case the term Subsidiary shall mean an entity in a chain of entities in which each entity has a “controlling interest” in another entity in the chain, starting with the Company.

 

Substitute Award ” shall mean an Award granted pursuant to Section 6(h) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

U.S. Participant ” shall mean a Participant the grant of an Award to whom or the exercise of an Award by whom is subject to taxation in the United States.

 

SECTION  3.    Administration .

 

(a)                                  General . The Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall be administered by the Committee.  A majority of the Committee shall constitute a quorum, and the acts of the members of the Committee who are present at any meeting thereof at which a quorum is present, or acts unanimously approved by the members of the Committee in writing, shall be the acts of the Committee.  Subject to the terms of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan and applicable law, and in addition to other express powers and authorizations conferred on the Committee by the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, the Committee shall have full power and authority to:  (i) designate Participants; (ii) determine the type or types of Awards to be granted to a Participant; (iii) determine the number of Shares to be covered by, or with respect to which payments, rights, or other matters are to be calculated in connection with, Awards; (iv) determine the terms and conditions of any Award; (v) determine whether, to what extent, and under what circumstances Awards may be settled or exercised in cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property, or canceled, forfeited, or suspended and the method or methods by which Awards may be settled, exercised, canceled, forfeited, or suspended; (vi) interpret and administer the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan and any instrument or agreement relating to an Award made under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan; (vii) establish, amend, suspend, or waive such rules and regulations and appoint such agents as it shall deem appropriate for the proper

 



 

administration of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan; (viii) amend any Award under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan as provided in Section 7(b) hereof; and (ix) make any other determination and take any other action that the Committee deems necessary or desirable for the administration of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.  Unless otherwise expressly provided in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, all designations, determinations, interpretations, and other decisions under or with respect to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any Award shall be within the sole discretion of the Committee, may be made at any time and shall be final, conclusive, and binding upon all Persons, including the Company and any of its Affiliates and Subsidiaries, any Participant, any holder or beneficiary of any Award, any stockholder and any other Person.  The Committee may, subject to any applicable law, regulatory, securities exchange or other similar restrictions, delegate to one or more officers of the Company the authority to grant Awards to Consultants who are not, and whose family members are not, subject to section 16(b) of the Exchange Act (for this purpose “family members” include the brothers or sisters (whether by whole or half blood), spouse, ancestors, or lineal descendants of the Consultant, and any spouse of any of the foregoing).  The Committee may impose such limitations and restrictions, in addition to any required limitations or restrictions, as the Committee may determine in its sole discretion.  Any Award granted pursuant to such a delegation shall be subject to all of the provisions of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan concerning such Award.

 

(b)                                  Participants in Non-U.S. Jurisdictions . Notwithstanding any provision of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan to the contrary, to comply with applicable laws in countries other than the United States in which the Company or any of its Affiliates or Subsidiaries operates or has employees, directors or other service providers from time to time, or to ensure that the Company complies with any applicable requirements of foreign securities exchanges, the Committee, in its sole discretion, shall have the power and authority to: (i) determine which of the Company’s Affiliates or Subsidiaries shall be covered by the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan; (ii) determine which Eligible Persons outside the United States are eligible to participate in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan; (iii) modify the terms and conditions of any Award granted to Eligible Persons outside the United States to comply with applicable foreign laws or listing requirements of any foreign exchange; (iv) establish sub-plans and modify exercise procedures and other terms and procedures, to the extent such actions may be necessary or advisable (any such sub-plans and/or modifications shall be attached to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan as appendices), provided , however , that no such sub-plans and/or modifications shall increase the share limitations contained in Section 4(a) below without the approval of the Company’s shareholders (to the extent required by applicable law and listing requirements); and (v) take any action, before or after an Award is granted, that it deems advisable to comply with any applicable governmental regulatory exemptions or approval or listing requirements of any such foreign securities exchange.  For purposes of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, all references to foreign laws, rules, regulations or taxes shall be references to the laws, rules, regulations and taxes of any applicable jurisdiction other than the United States or a political subdivision thereof.

 

SECTION  4.    Shares Available for Awards .

 

(a)                                  Shares Available .  Subject to adjustment as provided in Section 4(c) hereof, the number of Shares that may be issued with respect to Awards (including pursuant to the exercise

 



 

of Incentive Stock Options under the Plan) under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall be [ · ] Ordinary Shares.  To the extent an Award has been or is settled with the delivery of Shares, such Shares shall not be available for issuance under future Awards under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.  If an Award is surrendered, exchanged, forfeited, settled in cash or otherwise lapses, expires, terminates or is canceled without the actual delivery of Shares, including (i) Shares forfeited with respect to Restricted Stock that are not acquired into the Company’s treasury shares or are cancelled, (ii) Shares repurchased by the Company in accordance with Section 6(b) of the Plan at the same price paid by the Participant; or (iii) the number of Shares withheld or surrendered in payment of any exercise or purchase price of an Award or taxes relating to Awards, then the Shares covered by such Award, to the extent of such surrender, exchange, forfeiture, expiration, lapse, termination, cancellation or payment in cash, shall again be Shares that may be issued with respect to Awards granted under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

(b)                                  Sources of Shares Deliverable Under Awards .  Any Shares delivered pursuant to an Award may, to the extent permitted by the laws of England and Wales, consist in whole or in part of authorized and unissued Shares, or shares held by a trust or affiliated entity specifically set up to warehouse available Shares.

 

(c)                                   Anti-dilution Adjustments .  With respect to any “equity restructuring” event (such as a stock dividend, stock split, reverse stock split or similar event with respect to Shares) that could result in an additional compensation expense to the Company pursuant to the provisions of the Financial Accounting Standards Board, Accounting Standards Codification, Topic 718—Stock Compensation, as the same may be amended or superseded from time to time (“ ASC Topic 718 ”), if adjustments to Awards with respect to such event were discretionary, the Committee shall equitably adjust the number and type of Shares (or other securities or property) covered by each outstanding Award and the terms and conditions, including the exercise price and performance criteria (if any), of such Award to equitably reflect such restructuring event. With respect to any other similar event that would not result in an ASC Topic 718 accounting charge if the adjustment to Awards with respect to such event were subject to discretionary action, the Committee shall have complete discretion to adjust Awards in such manner as it deems appropriate with respect to such other event.  In the event the Committee makes any adjustment pursuant to the foregoing provisions of this Section 4(c), the Committee shall make a corresponding and proportionate adjustment to the maximum number and the type of Shares (or other securities or property) with respect to which Awards may be granted under the Plan and the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan after such event as provided in Section 4(a) hereof and the individual participant annual grant limits with respect to Awards (other than dollar-denominated Awards) as provided in Section 4(d) hereof.  Any such adjustments pursuant to this Section 4(c) shall be evidenced by written addendums to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan and Award Agreements prepared by the Company.

 

SECTION  5.    Eligibility .

 

Any Consultant or Director shall be eligible to be designated a Participant by the Committee. Awards may also be granted under an Annex or sub-plan to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 



 

SECTION  6.    Awards .

 

(a)                                  Options .  Subject to the provisions of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, the Committee shall have the authority to determine Consultants and Directors to whom Options shall be granted, the number of Shares to be covered by each Option, the exercise price therefor and the conditions and limitations applicable to the exercise of the Option, including the applicable Restricted Period and/or performance objectives, if any, and the following terms and conditions and such additional terms and conditions, as the Committee shall determine, that are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

(i)                                      Exercise Price .  The exercise price per Share purchasable under an Option shall be determined by the Committee at the time the Option is granted; provided , however , that except with respect to a Substitute Award, the exercise price shall not be less than the Fair Market Value per Share on the effective date of such grant, and provided , further , however , that the exercise price of any Option, including a Substitute Award, shall not be lower than the par value per Share on the effective date of such grant.

 

(ii)                                   Time and Method of Exercise .  The Committee shall determine and provide in the Award Agreement the time or times at which an Option may be exercised in whole or in part, and the method or methods by which, and the form or forms (which may include, without limitation, cash, check acceptable to the Company, Shares already-owned by the Participant, a “cashless-broker” exercise (through procedures approved by the Company), other securities or other property, a note (to the extent permitted by applicable law), a withholding or “netting” of Shares from the Option if it is not an Incentive Stock Option, or any combination thereof, having a Fair Market Value on the exercise date equal to the relevant exercise price) in which payment of the exercise price with respect thereto may be made or deemed to have been made.  An Option may not be exercised on or after the earliest of the following to take place:

 

(A)                                the date falling 10 years following grant;

 

(B)                                the expiry of the period of six months following a Change of Control falling within paragraphs c(i) or (ii) of its definition; and

 

(C)                                the expiry of the period during which any Person (or groups of Persons acting in concert) is bound or entitled under Sections 979 to 982 or Sections 983 to 985 of the Companies Act 2006 (or similar law of another jurisdiction) to acquire shares of the same class as the Ordinary Shares.

 

(iii)                                Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries, whether voluntary or involuntary (and including without limitation termination on account of death, disability, or retirement), all such Participant’s Options as to which the Restricted Period has not elapsed as of the date of termination shall be forfeited, and all such Participant’s Options as to which the Restricted Period has elapsed as of the date of termination shall remain exercisable for the period of time set forth in the Award Agreement, after which time any such Options which remain unexercised

 



 

shall be forfeited. However, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining restrictions with respect to a Participant’s Options.

 

(b)                                  Restricted Stock .  The Committee shall have the authority to grant Awards of Restricted Stock to Consultants and Directors upon such terms and conditions as the Committee may determine, including any provision that is required by Section 6(j)(vi) of this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

(i)                                      Terms and Conditions .  Each Restricted Stock Award shall be subject to the fulfillment during the Restricted Period of such conditions, including performance objectives, if any, as the Committee may specify at the date of grant, which conditions may lapse separately or in combination at such times, under such circumstances, in such installments or otherwise, as the Committee may determine. During the Restricted Period, the Participant shall have such rights of ownership in or with respect to the Restricted Stock as set forth in the Award Agreement, subject to Section 6(b)(ii) below concerning dividends.

 

(ii)                                   Dividends .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement, dividends and distributions made with respect to a share of Restricted Stock shall be held by the Company in a bookkeeping account for the Participant (credited either as cash (without interest) or as Phantom Shares), which account shall be subject to the same vesting and forfeiture restrictions as the share of Restricted Stock with respect to which such dividends and distributions are made.

 

(iii)                                Registration .  Any Restricted Stock may be evidenced in such manner as the Committee shall deem appropriate, including, without limitation, book-entry registration or issuance of a stock certificate or certificates.  In the event any stock certificate is issued in respect of Restricted Stock granted under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, such certificate shall be registered in the name of the Participant and shall bear an appropriate legend referring to the terms, conditions, and restrictions applicable to such Restricted Stock.

 

(iv)                               Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries during an applicable Restricted Period, all Restricted Stock subject to such Restricted Period shall (at the direction of the Company) be transferred by the Participant to the Company (in the case only where no price was paid by the Participant for such Restricted Stock) or to a person nominated by the Company at a cash price per share equal to the price paid by the Participant for such Restricted Stock or such other amount as may be specified in the applicable Award Agreement. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining forfeiture and other restrictions with respect to such Participant’s Restricted Stock if such termination of service is (x) due to the Participant’s death, disability, or retirement, or (y) an involuntary termination by the Company or Subsidiary other than for “cause,” or a termination by the Participant for a “good reason,” as such terms are

 



 

defined in the Award Agreement or an employment or severance agreement with (or a plan of) the Company or a Subsidiary, (the foregoing collectively being a “ Permitted Waiver Event” ).

 

(v)                                  Transfer Restrictions .  During the Restricted Period, Restricted Stock will be subject to such limitations on transfer as necessary to comply with section 83 of the Code if section 83 is applicable to such award and the Participant is a U.S. Participant.

 

(c)                                   Performance Awards .  The Committee shall have the authority to determine the Consultants and Directors who shall receive a Performance Award, pursuant to which the right of such individual to receive a grant, or to exercise or receive settlement, of any Award available under this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, and the timing thereof, may be subject to performance objectives as specified by the Committee.  In addition, a Performance Award may be denominated as a cash amount at the time of grant and confer on the Participant the right to receive payment upon the achievement of such performance objectives during such Restricted Periods as the Committee shall establish with respect to the Award.

 

(i)                                      Terms and Conditions .  Subject to the terms of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan (including, without limitation, Section 6(j)(vi) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan) and any applicable Award Agreement, the Committee shall determine the performance objectives to be achieved during the applicable Restricted Period, the length of the Restricted Period, the number of Shares or the amount of cash subject to any Performance Award and the amount of any payment to be made upon achievement of the performance objectives applicable to any Performance Award.

 

(ii)                                   Payment of Performance Awards .  Performance Awards are earned as of the date the Committee determines the applicable performance objectives have been satisfied.  Performance Awards may be paid (in cash and/or in Shares, in the sole discretion of the Committee) in a lump sum or in installments promptly as of or following the date the Committee determines the applicable performance objectives have been satisfied, in accordance with procedures established by the Committee with respect to such Award.  The Committee may exercise its discretion to reduce or increase the amounts payable under any Performance Awards.

 

(iii)                                Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries during the applicable Restricted Period, whether voluntary or involuntary (and including without limitation termination on account of death, disability, or retirement), all Performance Awards shall be forfeited by the Participant.  However, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver upon a Permitted Waiver Event would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining restrictions with respect to such Participant’s Performance Award.

 

(d)                                  Phantom Shares .  The Committee shall have the authority to grant Awards of Phantom Shares to Consultants and Directors upon such terms and conditions as the Committee may determine, including any provision that is required by Section 6(j)(vi) of this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 


 

(i)                                      Terms and Conditions .  Each Phantom Share Award shall constitute an agreement by the Company to issue a specified number of Shares or pay an amount of cash equal to the Fair Market Value of a specified number of Shares, or a combination thereof, to the Participant in the future, subject to the fulfillment during the Restricted Period of such conditions, including performance objectives, if any, as the Committee may specify at the date of grant.  The Participant shall not have any rights of ownership in or with respect to the Phantom Shares. Phantom Shares shall be earned upon the lapse of the Restricted Period and shall be settled upon expiration of a specified deferral period (which may or may not be coterminous with the Restricted Period).  The Committee shall cause the corresponding number of Shares to be issued or transferred, or shall cause the corresponding amount to be paid promptly thereafter. The Company may also grant Phantom Share Awards in the form of “restricted stock unit” awards.

 

(ii)                                   Dividend Equivalents .  Unless otherwise specified in the applicable Award Agreement, with respect to a Phantom Share, the economic equivalent of all dividends and other distributions paid on a Share during the Restricted Period shall be credited by the Company in a cash bookkeeping account (without interest) or in additional Phantom Shares, which account shall be subject to the same vesting and forfeiture restrictions as the related Phantom Share.

 

(iii)                                Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise provided in an applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries during the applicable Restricted Period, all Phantom Shares subject to such Restricted Period shall be forfeited by the Participant.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver upon a Permitted Waiver Event would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining forfeiture and other restrictions with respect to such Participant’s Phantom Shares.

 

(e)                                   SARs .  The Committee shall have the authority to determine the Consultants and Directors to whom SARs shall be granted, the number of SARs to be granted, the exercise price and the conditions and limitations applicable to the exercise of the SAR, including the applicable Restricted Period and/or performance objectives, if any, and the following terms and conditions and such additional terms and conditions, as the Committee shall determine, that are not inconsistent with the provisions of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan (including Section 6(j)(vi) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan).  SARs may be granted in tandem with or separately from an Option.

 

(i)                                      Exercise Price .  The exercise price per SAR shall be determined by the Committee at the time the SAR is granted, but, except with respect to a Substitute Award, shall not be less than the Fair Market Value per Share on the effective date of such grant.

 

(ii)                                   Time of Exercise .  The Committee shall determine and provide in the Award Agreement the time or times at which an SAR may be exercised in whole or in part.  The maximum term for an SAR shall be 10 years.

 



 

(iii)                                Method of Payment .  Unless provided in the Award Agreement, the Committee shall determine, in its discretion, whether the SAR shall be paid in cash, shares of Ordinary Shares or a combination thereof.

 

(iv)                               Forfeiture .  Unless otherwise provided in an applicable Award Agreement with respect to a Permitted Waiver Event, upon a Participant’s termination of service with the Company and its Subsidiaries, whether voluntary or involuntary (and including without limitation termination on account of death, disability, or retirement), all such Participant’s SARs as to which the Restricted Period has not elapsed as of the date of termination shall be forfeited, and all such Participant’s SARs as to which the Restricted Period has elapsed as of the date of termination shall remain exercisable for the period of time set forth in the Award Agreement, after which time any such SARs which remain unexercised shall be forfeited.  However, the Committee may, when it finds that a waiver would be in the best interests of the Company, waive in whole or in part any or all remaining restrictions with respect to a Participant’s SARs.

 

(f)                                    Bonus Stock .  The Committee is authorized to grant Ordinary Shares as a bonus, or to grant Ordinary Shares or other Awards in lieu of obligations to pay cash or deliver other property under this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or under other plans or compensatory arrangements, provided that, in the case of Participants subject to section 16 of the Exchange Act, the amount of such grants remains within the discretion of the Committee to the extent necessary to ensure that acquisitions of Bonus Stock or other Awards are exempt from liability under section 16(b) of the Exchange Act.  Bonus Stock or other Awards granted hereunder shall be subject to such other terms as shall be determined by the Committee, including Section 6(j)(vi) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.  In the case of any grant of Ordinary Shares to an officer of the Company or any of its Subsidiaries in lieu of salary or other cash compensation, the number of shares granted in place of such compensation shall be reasonable, as determined by the Committee.

 

(g)                                   Dividend Equivalents .  The Committee is authorized to grant Dividend Equivalents to Consultants and Directors entitling the Participant to receive cash, Ordinary Shares, other Awards, or other property equal in value to dividends paid with respect to a specified number of shares of Ordinary Shares, or other periodic payments.  Dividend Equivalents may be awarded on a free-standing basis or in connection with another Award.  The Committee may provide that Dividend Equivalents shall be paid or distributed when accrued or shall be deemed to have been reinvested in additional Ordinary Shares, Awards, or other investment vehicles, and subject to such restrictions on transferability and risks of forfeiture, as the Committee may specify.

 

(h)                                  Substitute Awards .  Awards may be granted under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan in substitution of similar awards held by individuals who become Consultants and Directors as a result of a merger, consolidation or acquisition by the Company or a Subsidiary of another entity or the assets of another entity.  Such Substitute Awards, if an Option or SAR, may have an exercise price less than the Fair Market Value of a Share on the date of such substitution, to the extent necessary to preserve the value of the award, and will become exercisable upon the lapse of the Restricted Period.  Such Substitute Awards, if Restricted Stock or Phantom Shares,

 



 

shall be earned by the Participant, and promptly issued, transferred, or paid, upon the lapse of the Restricted Period or other specified deferral period.

 

(i)                                      Other Stock-Based Award .  The Committee may also grant to Consultants and Directors an Other Stock-Based Award, which shall consist of a right which is an Award denominated or payable in, valued in whole or in part by reference to, or otherwise based on or related to, Shares as is deemed by the Committee to be consistent with the purposes of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, which may include convertible or exchangeable debt securities, other rights convertible or exchangeable into Ordinary Shares, purchase rights for Ordinary Shares, Awards with value and payment contingent upon performance of the Company or any other factors designated by the Committee, and Awards valued by reference to the book value of Ordinary Shares or the value of securities of or the performance of specified Subsidiaries of the Company.  Subject to the terms of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, the Committee shall determine the terms and conditions, including any vesting terms and/or performance objectives, of any such Other Stock-Based Award.  Cash awards, as an element of or supplemental to any other Award under this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, may also be granted pursuant to this Section 6(i).

 

(j)                                     General .

 

(i)                                      Award Agreements.   An Award Agreement may be delivered to each Participant to whom an Award is granted.  The terms of the Award Agreement shall be as determined by the Committee, so long as they are consistent with the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

(ii)                                   Awards May Be Granted Separately or Together .  Subject to Section 7(a) hereof, Awards may, in the discretion of the Committee, be granted either alone or in addition to, or in tandem with, or in substitution or exchange for, any other Award granted under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any award granted under any other plan of the Company or any Subsidiary.  Such additional, tandem and substitute or exchanged Awards may be granted at any time.  If an Award is granted in substitution or exchange for another Award, the Committee shall require the surrender of such other Award in consideration for the grant of the new Award.

 

(iii)                                Limits on Transfer of Awards .

 

(A)                                Except as provided in paragraph (C) below, each Award, and each right under any Award, shall be exercisable only by the Participant during the Participant’s lifetime, or if permissible under applicable law, by the Participant’s guardian or legal representative as determined by the Committee.

 

(B)                                Except as provided in paragraph (C) below or in a qualified domestic relations order, no Award and no right under any such Award may be assigned, alienated, pledged, attached, sold or otherwise transferred or encumbered by a Participant in any manner (whether for value or other consideration) other than by will or by the laws of descent and distribution, and any such purported prohibited assignment, alienation, pledge, attachment, sale,

 



 

transfer or encumbrance shall be void and unenforceable against the Company or any Subsidiary.

 

(C)                                To the extent specifically approved in writing by the Committee, an Award may be transferred to immediate family members or related family trusts, limited partnerships or similar family entities on such terms and conditions as the Committee may establish or approve.

 

(iv)                               Terms of Awards, Minimum Vesting .  The term of each Award shall be for such period as may be determined by the Committee, provided the term of an Option and SAR shall be limited as provided in Sections 6(a)(ii) hereof and (iii) and Section 6(e)(ii) hereof, respectively.  The minimum vesting or forfeiture restriction period with respect to Awards that are Options, SARs or other Awards for which a Participant pays (or the value or amount payable under the Award is reduced by) an amount equal to or exceeding the Fair Market Value of the Stock determined as of the date of grant shall be one year, subject to the Committee’s authority pursuant to Sections 6(a)(iv), 6(b)(iv), 6(c)(iv), 6(d)(iii), 6(e)(iv), 6(j)(x), and 7 of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan in the event of a Participant’s termination of employment or service or upon the occurrence of certain events; provided , that the foregoing one-year minimum vesting or forfeiture restriction period shall not apply to the grant of any such Awards with respect to an aggregate number of Shares that does not exceed 5% of the total share pool specified in Section 4(a)(1) hereof.

 

(v)                                  Share Certificates .  All certificates for Shares or other securities of the Company or any Subsidiary delivered under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan pursuant to any Award or the exercise thereof shall be subject to such stop transfer orders and other restrictions as the Committee may deem advisable under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or the rules, regulations, and other requirements of the SEC, any stock exchange upon which such Shares or other securities are then listed, and any applicable federal or state laws, and the Committee may cause a legend or legends to be put on any such certificates to make appropriate reference to such restrictions.

 

(vi)                               Consideration for Awards .  Awards may be granted for no cash consideration or for such consideration as the Committee determines, including, without limitation, such minimal cash consideration as may be required by applicable law or regulation. In the event that the Committee determines that an applicable law or regulation requires a Participant to provide consideration to the Company in connection with the grant, vesting or settlement of an Award, the Award Agreement shall set forth the terms and conditions of such consideration required of the Participant, which shall not be greater than the par value per Share underlying the Award. Such consideration shall be paid by the Participant in cash, or the Company may deduct the applicable amount from other cash compensation owed to the Participant.

 

(vii)                            Delivery of Shares or other Securities and Payment by Participant of Consideration .  No Shares or other securities shall be delivered pursuant to any Award until payment in full of any amount required to be paid pursuant to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or the applicable Award Agreement (including, without limitation,

 



 

any exercise price or tax withholding) is received by the Company.  Such payment may be made by such method or methods and in such form or forms as the Committee shall determine, including, without limitation, cash, Shares, other securities, other Awards or other property, withholding of Shares, cashless exercise with simultaneous sale, or any combination thereof, provided that the combined value, as determined by the Committee, of all cash and cash equivalents and the Fair Market Value of any such Shares or other property so tendered to the Company, as of the date of such tender, is at least equal to the full amount required to be paid pursuant to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or the applicable Award Agreement to the Company.

 

(viii)                         Performance Criteria . The Committee shall establish performance goals applicable to Awards based upon one or more of the following performance criteria: (A) earnings per share; (B) revenues; (C) cash flow; (D) cash flow returns; (E) free cash flow; (F) operating cash flow; (G) net cash flow; (H) working capital; (I) return on net assets; (J) return on assets; (K) return on investment; (L) return on capital; (M) return on equity; (N) economic value added; (O) gross margin; (P) contribution margin; (Q) operating margin; (R) net income; (S) pretax earnings; (T) pretax earnings before interest, depreciation and amortization (“ EBITDA ”); (U) pretax earnings after interest expense and before incentives, service fees, and extraordinary or special items; (V) operating income; (W) total stockholder return; (X) Share price; (Y) book value; (Z) enterprise value; (AA) debt reduction; (BB) costs or expenses; (CC) objective safety measures (including recordable incident rates and lost time incident rates); (DD) objective environmental measures (including gas releases); (EE) sales; (FF) market share; (GG) objective productivity measures; (HH) revenue or earnings per employee; (II) objective measures related to implementation or completion of significant projects or processes; (JJ) significant and objective strategic business criteria, consisting of one or more objectives based on meeting specified market penetration, geographic business expansion, customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction, human resources management, supervision of litigation, information technology, and goals relating to acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and similar transactions, and budget comparisons; and (KK) significant and objective individual criteria, including any of the foregoing performance goals, the implementation of policies and plans, the negotiation of transactions, the development of long-term business goals, formation of joint ventures, research or development collaborations, and the completion of other corporation transactions.  Such goals (other than stock price and earnings per share) may be expressed in terms of the Company, a Subsidiary, a parent, department, division, business unit, or product, as determined by the Committee, and may be absolute, relative to one or more other companies, or relative to one or more indexes.  A performance goal need not be based upon an increase or positive result under a business criterion and may, for example, be based upon limiting economic losses or maintaining the status quo.  Which factor or factors to be used with respect to any grant, and the weight to be accorded thereto if more than one factor is used, shall be determined by the Committee, in its sole discretion, at the time of grant.  The Committee (A) shall appropriately adjust any evaluation of performance under a performance goal to eliminate the effects of charges for restructurings, discontinued operations, extraordinary items and all items of gain, loss or expense determined to be extraordinary or unusual in nature or related to the disposal of a segment of a business or related to a change in accounting principle, all as determined in

 



 

accordance with applicable accounting provisions, as well as the cumulative effect of accounting changes, in each case as determined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles or identified in the Company’s financial statements or notes to the financial statements; and (B) may appropriately adjust any evaluation of performance under a performance goal to exclude any of the following that occurs during the applicable performance period: (1) asset write-downs, (2) litigation, claims, judgments or settlements, (3) the effect of changes in tax law or other such laws or provisions affecting reported results, (4) accruals for reorganization and restructuring programs, or (5) accruals of any amounts for payment under this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any other compensation arrangement maintained by the Company.

 

(ix)                               Change of Control .  Unless otherwise provided for in an Award Agreement and subject to Section 6(j)(x) below, upon a Change of Control, all then-outstanding Awards shall vest in accordance with Section 6(j)(ix)(A) below, except to the extent that another Award meeting the requirements of Section 6(j)(ix)(B) hereof (a “ Replacement Award ”) is provided to the Participant to replace such Award (the “ Replaced Award ”).

 

(A)                                Change of Control Vesting .  Upon a Change of Control, a Participant’s then-outstanding Awards that are not vested and (1) as to which vesting depends solely on the satisfaction of a service obligation by the Participant to the Company or any Subsidiary shall become fully vested; or (2) as to which vesting depends upon the satisfaction of one or more performance objectives shall immediately vest and all performance objectives shall be calculated based on either, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, (a) actual performance against the stated performance objectives as of the date of the Change of Control or (b) deemed target performance pro-rated based on the number of days elapsed in the applicable performance period until the date of the Change of Control.

 

(B)                                Replacement Awards .  An Award shall meet the conditions of this Section 6(j)(ix)(B) (and hence qualify as a Replacement Award) if: (1) it is of the same type as the Replaced Award (or, it is of a different type than the Replaced Award, provided that the Committee, as constituted immediately prior to the Change of Control, finds such type acceptable); (2) it has an intrinsic value at least equal to the value of the Replaced Award; (3) it relates to publicly traded equity securities of the Company or its successor in the Change of Control or another entity that is affiliated with the Company or its successor following the Change of Control; (4) its terms and conditions comply with the terms of this Section 6(j)(ix)(B) set forth below; and (5) its other terms and conditions are not less favorable to the Participant than the terms and conditions of the Replaced Award (including the provisions that would apply in the event of a subsequent Change of Control). Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Replacement Award may take the form of a continuation of the Replaced Award if the requirements of the preceding sentence are satisfied. The determination of whether the conditions of this Section 6(j)(ix)(B) are satisfied shall be made by the Committee, as constituted immediately before the Change of Control, in its

 



 

sole discretion. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Committee may determine the value of Awards and Replacement Awards that are stock options or stock appreciation rights by reference to either their intrinsic value or their fair value. Upon an involuntary termination of service of a Participant occurring at any time following the Change of Control, other than for cause, all Replacement Awards held by the Participant (a) as to which vesting depends solely on the satisfaction of a service obligation by the Participant to the Company or any Subsidiary shall become fully vested; or (b) as to which vesting depends upon the satisfaction of one or more performance objectives shall immediately vest and all performance objectives shall be calculated based on either, as determined by the Committee in its sole discretion, (i) actual performance against the stated performance objectives as of the date of the Change of Control or (ii) deemed target performance pro-rated based on the number of days elapsed in the applicable performance period until the date of the Change of Control.

 

(x)                                  Unusual Transactions or Events .  In the event of any distribution (whether in the form of cash, Shares, other securities, or other property), recapitalization, reorganization, merger, spin-off, combination, repurchase, or exchange of Shares or other securities of the Company, or other corporate transaction or event or any unusual or nonrecurring transactions or events (including without limitation a Change of Control) affecting the Company, any affiliate of the Company, or the financial statements of the Company or any affiliate, or of changes in applicable laws, regulations or accounting principles, and whenever the Committee determines that action is appropriate in order to prevent the dilution or enlargement of the benefits or potential benefits intended to be made available under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or with respect to any Award under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, to facilitate such transactions or events or to give effect to such changes in laws, regulations or principles, the Committee, in its sole discretion and on such terms and conditions as it deems appropriate, may take any one or more of the following actions:

 

(A)                                To provide for either (i) the termination of any such Award in exchange for an amount of cash, if any, equal to the amount that would have been attained upon the exercise of such Award or realization of the Participant’s rights (and, for the avoidance of doubt, if as of the date of the occurrence of such transaction or event the Committee determines in good faith that no amount would have been attained upon the exercise of such Award or realization of the Participant’s rights, then such Award may be terminated by the Company without payment) or (ii) the replacement of such Award with other rights or property of substantially equivalent value selected by the Committee in its sole discretion;

 

(B)                                To provide that such Award be assumed by the successor or survivor corporation, or a parent or subsidiary thereof, or shall be substituted for by similar options, rights or awards covering the stock of the successor or survivor corporation, or a parent or subsidiary thereof, with appropriate adjustments as to the number and kind of shares and prices;

 


 

(C)                                To make adjustments in the number and type of shares of Ordinary Shares (or other securities or property) subject to outstanding Awards, and in the number and kind of outstanding Awards and/or in the terms and conditions of (including the grant or exercise price), and the criteria included in, outstanding Awards and Awards which may be granted in the future, provided that, with respect to outstanding Awards such adjustments shall result in substantially equivalent value to the affected Participants; and

 

(D)                                To provide that such Award shall be exercisable (within such period of time as the Committee may specify, for example, but not by way of limitation, in connection with a Change of Control, the Committee may specify that unexercised, vested Options or SARs terminate upon consummation of the Change of Control), or payable or fully vested with respect to all Shares covered thereby, notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or the applicable Award Agreement.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, with respect to an above event that is an “equity restructuring” event that would be subject to a compensation expense pursuant ASC Topic 718, the provisions in Section 4(c) hereof shall control to the extent they are in conflict with the discretionary provisions of this Section 6(j)(x).

 

SECTION  7.    Amendment and Termination .

 

Except to the extent prohibited by applicable law:

 

(a)                                  Amendments to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan .  The Board or the Committee may amend, alter, suspend, discontinue, or terminate the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan without the consent of any stockholder, Participant, other holder or beneficiary of an Award, or other Person (but stockholder approval will be required to the extent required by applicable law or listing requirements); provided , however , notwithstanding any other provision of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any Award Agreement, without the approval of the stockholders of the Company no such amendment, alteration, suspension, discontinuation, or termination shall be made that would (i) increase the total number of Shares that may be issued under Awards granted under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, except as provided in Sections 4(c) and  6(j)(x) of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, (ii) increase the class of individuals eligible to receive Awards under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or (iii) materially increase the benefits available under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.  In addition, except in connection with a corporate transaction involving the Company (including, without limitation, any stock dividend, stock split, extraordinary cash dividend, recapitalization, reorganization, merger, consolidation, split-up, spin-off, combination, or exchange of shares) and except as provided in Section 6(j)(x) of this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, the terms of outstanding Awards may not be amended to reduce the exercise price of outstanding Options or SARs or cancel outstanding Options or SARs in exchange for cash, other Awards or Options or SARs with an exercise price that is less than the exercise price of the original Options or SARs without stockholder approval.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, without the consent of an affected Participant, no Board or Committee action pursuant to this Section 7(a) may materially or

 



 

adversely affect the rights of such Participant under any previously granted and outstanding Award.

 

(b)                                  Amendments to Awards .  Subject to Section 7(a) hereof and any express restrictions in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan concerning the acceleration of the vesting of Awards, the Committee may accelerate or waive any conditions or rights under, amend any terms of, or alter any Award theretofore granted, provided that, subject to Section 7(c) below, no change in any Award shall materially adversely affect the rights of a Participant under the Award without the consent of such Participant.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, and subject to Section 7(c) below, no acceleration of the terms of payment of any Award that provides for a deferral of compensation under the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules shall be authorized if such acceleration would subject a Participant to additional taxes under the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules.

 

(c)                                   Amendments to Preserve or Achieve Tax Treatment and Comply with Law .  Notwithstanding Section 7(b) hereof, the Board or the Committee may amend or alter any terms of any outstanding Award as it deems advisable in order to preserve or achieve its intended tax treatment or to comply with applicable law, provided that such amendments or alterations shall result in substantially equivalent value to the affected Participants.

 

(d)                                  Substantially Equivalent Value .  With respect to amendments, alterations, or adjustments of any Award, “substantially equivalent value” may be determined without consideration of any tax consequences of the amendment, alteration, or adjustment.

 

SECTION  8.    General Provisions .

 

(a)                                  No rights to Awards .  No Participant or other Person shall have any claim to be granted any Award, there is no obligation for uniformity of treatment of Participants, or holders or beneficiaries of Awards and the terms and conditions of Awards need not be the same with respect to each recipient.

 

(b)                                  Tax Matters .

 

(i)                                      If permitted by law, the Committee may upon grant of an Award direct that a Participant other than a U.S. Participant will be required as a condition of exercise or vesting at or before the time of exercise or vesting of the Award to enter into an agreement with the Company or any of its Affiliates, as applicable, to allow the Company or any of its Affiliates, as applicable, to recover the applicable National Insurance contribution liability relating to the exercise or vesting of the Award or to enter into a joint election with the Company or any of its Affiliates, as applicable, that the applicable National Insurance contribution liability shall be transferred to the Participant.

 

(ii)                                   Notwithstanding any provision of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, each Participant is solely responsible and liable for the satisfaction of all taxes and penalties of any kind and with respect to any tax jurisdiction that may be imposed on or for the account of such Participant in connection with the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 



 

(c)                                   No Right to Continued Services or Retention .  The grant of an Award shall not be construed as giving a Participant the right to be retained in the service of the Company or any Subsidiary or under any other service contract with the Company or any Subsidiary, or to remain on the Board.  Further, the Company or a Subsidiary may at any time dismiss a Participant from service or terminate any contractual agreement or relationship with any Consultant, free from any liability or any claim under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, unless otherwise expressly provided in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, in any Award Agreement or any other agreement or contract between the Company or a Subsidiary and the affected Participant.  If a Participant’s service recipient ceases to be a Subsidiary, such Participant’s Award or Awards shall continue in full force and effect as if the Participant’s service recipient were still a Subsidiary, unless and until the Committee, within its discretion, adjusts the Participant’s Award or Awards in any of the manners described in Section 6(j)(x)(A) through (D) hereof.

 

(d)                                  Governing Law .  The validity, construction, and effect of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan and any rules and regulations relating to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall be determined in accordance with the laws of the State of Delaware and applicable federal law, without application of the conflicts of law principles thereof.

 

(e)                                   Severability .  If any provision of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any Award is or becomes or is deemed to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable in any jurisdiction or as to any Person or Award, or would disqualify the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any Award under any law deemed applicable by the Committee, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to conform to the applicable laws, or if it cannot be construed or deemed amended without, in the determination of the Committee, materially altering the intent of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or the Award, such provision shall be stricken as to such jurisdiction, Person or Award and the remainder of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan and any such Award shall remain in full force and effect.  If such amendment or striking of such provision adversely affects the value of the Award, the Committee shall cause appropriate action to be taken to provide the affected Participant with substantially equivalent value to the Award in question.

 

(f)                                    Other Laws .  The Committee may refuse to issue or transfer any Shares or other consideration under an Award, permit the exercise of an Award and/or the satisfaction of its tax withholding obligation in the manner elected by the Participant, holder or beneficiary if, acting in its sole discretion, it determines that the issuance or transfer of such Shares or such other consideration, the manner of exercise or satisfaction of the tax withholding obligation might violate any applicable law or regulation, including without limitation, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, or entitle the Company to recover the same under section 16(b) of the Exchange Act, and any payment tendered to the Company by a Participant, other holder or beneficiary in connection with the exercise of such Award shall be promptly refunded or refused, as the case may be, to the relevant Participant, holder or beneficiary.  It is the intent of the Company that the grant of any Awards to or other transaction by a Participant who is subject to section 16 of the Exchange Act shall be exempt from such section pursuant to an applicable exemption (except for transactions acknowledged in writing to be non-exempt by such Participant) and, if any provision of this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any Award Agreement does not comply with the requirements of Rule 16b-3 as then applicable to any such transaction, such provision shall be construed or deemed amended to the extent necessary to conform to the applicable requirements

 



 

of Rule 16b-3 so that such Participant shall avoid liability under section 16(b) of the Exchange Act.

 

(g)                                   No Trust or Fund Created .  Neither the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan nor any Award shall create or be construed to create a trust or separate fund of any kind or a fiduciary relationship between the Company or any Subsidiary and a Participant or any other Person.  To the extent that any Person acquires a right to receive payments from the Company or any Subsidiary pursuant to an Award, such right shall be no greater than the right of any general unsecured creditor of the Company or any Subsidiary. This Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall not constitute an “employee benefit plan” for purposes of section 3(3) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.

 

(h)                                  Section 409A .  With respect to any Award that is subject to section 409A of the Code, notwithstanding anything in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or the Award Agreement to the contrary such Award shall be construed as necessary to comply with the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules, including, but not limited to, (i) compensation under such Award may not be distributed earlier than as permitted in section 409A(2) of the Code, (2) the time or schedule of payment of such Award may not be accelerated except as provided in the Treasury regulations under section 409A, and (3) no compensation under such Award may be deferred at the Participant’s election or by the Company except as permitted by Code section 409A. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence or any provision in the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or an Award Agreement to the contrary, in the event that a “specified employee” (as defined under the Non-Qualified Deferred Compensation Rules) becomes entitled to a payment under an Award that would be subject to additional taxes and interest under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Rules if the Participant’s receipt of such payment or benefits is not delayed until the earlier of (A) the date of the Participant’s death, or (B) the date that is six months after the Participant’s “separation from service,” as defined under the Nonqualified Deferred Compensation Rules (such date, the “ Section 409A Payment Date ”), then such payment or benefit shall not be provided to the Participant until the Section 409A Payment Date.  Any amounts subject to the preceding sentence that would otherwise be payable prior to the Section 409A Payment Date will be aggregated and paid in a lump sum without interest on the Section 409A Payment Date.

 

(i)                                      No Fractional Shares .  No fractional Shares shall be issued or delivered pursuant to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any Award, and the Committee shall determine whether cash, other securities, or other property shall be paid or transferred in lieu of any fractional Shares or whether such fractional Shares or any rights thereto shall be cancelled, terminated, or otherwise eliminated.

 

(j)                                     Headings .  Headings are given to the Section and subsections of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan solely as a convenience to facilitate reference.  Such headings shall not be deemed in any way material or relevant to the construction or interpretation of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or any provision thereof.

 

(k)                                  Undertakings of Certain Subsidiaries .  The Subsidiaries who otherwise agree to the terms of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall, upon request of the Company, fund

 



 

the cash portion of any Award for a Participant who is an Employee or Consultant of such Subsidiary.

 

(l)                                      Clawback .  This Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan is subject to any written clawback policies the Company, with the approval of the Board, may adopt.  Any such policy may subject a Participant’s rights and benefits under this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan to reduction, cancellation, forfeiture or recoupment if certain specified events or wrongful conduct occur, including but not limited to an accounting restatement due to the Company’s material noncompliance with financial reporting regulations or other events or wrongful conduct specified in any such clawback policy, adopted to conform to the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and rules promulgated thereunder by the SEC, and that the Company determines should apply to this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan.

 

(m)                              Establishment of Sub-Plans .  The Committee may from time to time establish one or more sub-plans under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan for purposes of satisfying applicable blue sky, securities or tax laws of various jurisdictions. The Committee will establish such sub-plans by adopting supplements or appendices to the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan setting forth (i) such limitations on the Committee’s discretion under the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan as it deems necessary or desirable and (ii) such additional terms and conditions not otherwise inconsistent with the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan as it deems necessary or desirable. All such supplements or appendices so established will be deemed to be part of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, but each supplement or appendix will apply only to Participants within the affected jurisdiction (as determined by the Committee).

 

SECTION  9.    Data Protection .

 

(a)                                  The Company and the Committee may process certain Personal Data (whether provided in any documents that the Participant completes in order to participate in the Plan or sourced from the Participant’s employment with any Participating Company) about Participants in connection with the Plan.  For the purpose of this Section 9, references to the “Company” shall include any Subsidiary and/or Company Affiliate that employs the Participant from time to time).  This Section 9 sets out:

 

(i)                                      the Personal Data that the Company and the Committee will hold; and

 

(ii)                                   the purposes for which the Company and the Committee will hold and use that Personal Data.

 

(b)                                  A Participant shall be required to disclose Personal Data in order to receive an Award.  Disclosure may occur pursuant to an Award Agreement or in connection with the administrative processes used by the Company in order to populate the Award Agreement and administer the Award.  If a Participant does not disclose the Personal Data which is required by the Company or the Committee in order to comply with the Plan, the Company and the Committee may not be able to grant an Award to the Participant.

 

(c)                                   The Company and the Committee may collect, use and process Personal Data about a Participant in order to administer or otherwise give effect to the Plan including for the following purposes:

 



 

(i)                                      to correspond with the Participant and discuss the Plan with the Participant;

 

(ii)                                   to carry out the Participant’s obligations arising from any contracts entered into between the Participant, the Committee and/or the Company;

 

(iii)                                holding, administering and maintaining Participant records, including, but not limited to, details of the Participant’s Awards;

 

(iv)                               to support and assist any third parties with whom the Committee or the Company may share the Personal Data of Participants to manage and administer the Plan;

 

(v)                                  to manage and administer the relationship between the Participant and the Committee and the Company;

 

(vi)                               to comply with legal obligations of the Company and the Committee and to comply with instructions the Company and the Committee may receive from any regulatory bodies;

 

(vii)                            to provide information to the Company, the Committee, trustees of any employee benefit trust, registrars, brokers or any administrators of the Plan; and

 

(viii)                         to provide information to bona fide prospective purchasers or merger partners of the Company (including advisers to such prospective purchasers or merger partners), or the business in which the Participant works.

 

(d)                                  The Company and the Committee may, in order to administer or otherwise give effect to the Plan, from time to time share the Personal Data of Participants with:

 

(i)                                      any Company Affiliate or any Subsidiary of the Company that does not employ the Participant;

 

(ii)                                   advisers, brokers or registrars engaged by the Company, the Committee, and any Company Affiliate and/or any Subsidiary of the Company that does not employ the Participant; and/or

 

(iii)                                any third parties that provide services to the Company, the Committee, and any Company Affiliate and/or any Subsidiary of the Company that does not employ the Participant.

 

(e)                                   The Company and the Committee will process the Personal Data of Participants in order to:

 

(i)                                      pursue their legitimate interests of administering, or otherwise giving effect to, the Plan; and/or

 



 

(ii)                                   fulfill their respective obligations as necessary for the performance of a contract with the Participant (or another Person), or in preparation of entering into a contract with the Participant (or another Person).

 

(f)                                    The Committee will not retain any Personal Data of Participants relating to the Plan.  Any Personal Data of Participants relating to the Plan will be stored by the Company until termination of the Plan.

 

(g)                                   Where the Company and/or the Committee share with, or transfer to, any person the Personal Data of Participants and that person is located outside the European Economic Area, the Company and/or the Committee will ensure that there are in place adequate safeguards for such information, including, entering into model contract clauses which have been approved by the European Commission.  Copies of such agreements can be obtained by request from           at the Company.

 

(h)                                  The privacy compliance manager for the Company (and contact details) are:            (email:           ; telephone:             ).

 

(i)                                      Participants have a number of rights in respect of the use by the Company and the Committee of their Personal Data.  These include:

 

(i)                                      the right to object to direct marketing;

 

(ii)                                   the right (subject to certain exclusions) to receive a copy of Personal Data held by the Committee and the Company; and

 

(iii)                                from 25 May 2018, the following rights:

 

(A)                                the right to be forgotten;

 

(B)                                the right to restrict the use of his/her Personal Data by the Company and the Committee;

 

(C)                                the right to object to the way his/her Personal Data is used; and

 

(D)                                the right to object to profiling and automated decision making.

 

Participants who would like any further information about their rights or how to exercise them, should contact           .

 

(j)                                     Participants who are unhappy about the use of Personal Data by the Company or the Committee may make a complaint to the Information Commissioner.  Further information can be found at https://ico.org.uk.

 

SECTION  10.    Effective Date of Plan .

 

This Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall become effective as of the Effective Date, subject to approval by the stockholders of the Company as necessary pursuant to applicable laws.

 



 

SECTION  11.    Term of the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan .

 

No Award shall be granted under this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan prior to the date this Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan is approved by the stockholders of the Company.  If so approved, the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan shall continue until the earliest of (i) [ · ], 2027, (ii) the date the Board terminates the Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan, and (iii) the date Shares are no longer available for Awards under the Plan.  However, unless otherwise expressly provided in the Plan, Non-Employee Stock Incentive Plan or in an applicable Award Agreement, any Award granted prior to such termination, and the authority of the Committee to amend, alter, adjust, suspend, discontinue, or terminate any such Award or to waive any conditions or rights under such Award, shall extend beyond such termination date.

 




Exhibit 10.5

 

FORM OF INDEMNIFICATION DEED

FOR OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS

 

THIS DEED is effective [ · ], 2017, between Venator Materials PLC, a public limited company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 10747130 and the undersigned person who is currently serving or will serve the Company as a director or officer (“ Indemnitee ”).

 

WHEREAS, the Company intends to adopt, or has adopted, Amended and Restated Articles of Association (as the same may be amended from time to time, the “ Articles ”) which sets forth certain provisions related to the indemnification of, and advancement of expenses to directors (among others) of the Company or any Associated Company; and

 

WHEREAS, the Company and Indemnitee recognize that the interpretation of ambiguous statutes, regulations and court opinions, and of the Articles, and the vagaries of public policy, are too uncertain to provide the directors and officers of the Company with adequate or reliable advance knowledge or guidance with respect to the legal risks and potential liabilities to which they may become personally exposed as a result of performing their duties in good faith for the Company; and

 

WHEREAS, the Company and Indemnitee are aware that highly experienced and capable persons are often reluctant to serve as directors or officers of a company unless they are protected to the fullest extent permitted by law by comprehensive insurance or indemnification, especially since the legal risks and potential liabilities, and the very threat thereof, associated with lawsuits filed against directors or officers of a company, and the resultant substantial time spent, expense, harassment, ridicule, abuse and anxiety in defending against such lawsuits, whether or not meritorious, bear no reasonable or logical relationship to the amount of compensation received by the directors or officers from the company; and

 

WHEREAS, after due consideration and investigation of the terms and provisions of this Deed, the Board of Directors of the Company has determined in good faith that this Deed is not only reasonable and prudent, but necessary to promote the success of the Company; and

 

WHEREAS, the Company desires to have Indemnitee serve as a director and/or officer of the Company, free from undue concern for unpredictable, inappropriate or unreasonable legal risks and personal liabilities by reason of his acting in good faith in the performance of his duty to the Company; and Indemnitee desires to serve (provided that he is furnished the indemnity and other benefits provided for hereinafter), in either or both of such capacities;

 



 

NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the covenants contained herein, the Company and Indemnitee do hereby covenant and agree as follows:

 

1.                                       Definitions .  As used in this Deed:

 

(a)                                  Application for Relief ” means an application made by Indemnitee to the court under sections 661(3) or 661 (4) or section 1157 of the Companies Act.

 

(b)                                  Associated Company ” has the meaning given in section 256 of the Companies Act.

 

(c)                                   Company ” means Venator Materials PLC (company number 10747130) and any Associated Company.

 

(d)                                  Companies Act ” means the Companies Act 2006 as amended from time to time.

 

(e)                                   Expenses ” include, all attorneys’ fees and disbursements, accountants’ fees, private investigation fees and disbursements, retainers, court costs, transcript costs, fees of experts, fees and expenses of witnesses, travel expenses, duplicating costs, printing and binding costs, telephone charges, postage, delivery service fees, and all other disbursements, or expenses, reasonably incurred by or for Indemnitee in connection with prosecuting, defending, preparing to prosecute or defend, investigating, being or preparing to be a witness in a Proceeding or establishing Indemnitee’s right of entitlement to indemnification for any of the foregoing.

 

(f)                                    final ” in relation to any conviction, judgment or refusal of relief, has the meaning given in section 204(3) of the Companies Act.

 

(g)                                   Party ” or “ Parties ” means the Company or the Indemnitee or both as appropriate;

 

(h)                                  Proceeding ” includes any threatened, pending or completed action, suit, inquiry or proceeding, whether brought by or in the right of the Company or otherwise and whether of a civil, criminal, administrative, arbitrative or investigative nature, in which Indemnitee is or will be involved as a party, as a witness or otherwise, by reason of the fact that Indemnitee is or was a director or officer of the Company, by reason of any action taken by him or of any inaction on his part while acting as a director or officer or by reason of the fact that he is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, officer, trustee, employee or agent of another company, partnership, joint venture, trust, limited liability company or other enterprise including any predecessor, subsidiary of affiliated entity of the Company; in each case whether or not he is acting or serving in any such capacity at the time any liability or expense is incurred for which indemnification or reimbursement can be provided under this Deed; provided, however, that any such action, suit or proceeding which is brought by Indemnitee or any person or entity on behalf of or in the right of Indemnitee against the Company or directors or officers of the Company, shall not be deemed a

 

2



 

Proceeding without prior approval by a majority of the Board of Directors of the Company.

 

(i)                                      Liabilities ” include, without limitation any judgments, fines and penalties against Indemnitee in connection with a Proceeding and amounts paid by Indemnitee in settlement of a Proceeding.

 

(j)                                     Restricted Proceeding ” means any (i) criminal Proceedings, (ii) Proceedings brought by the Company and (iii) Application for Relief.

 

(k)                                  Stock Exchange ” means any stock exchange upon which securities issued by the Company (or depositary receipts representing such securities) are listed;

 

(l)                                      substantiating documentation ” shall mean copies of bills or invoices for costs incurred by or for Indemnitee, or copies of court or agency orders or decrees or settlement agreements, as the case may be, accompanied by a sworn statement from Indemnitee that such bills, invoices, court or agency orders or decrees or settlement agreements, represent costs or liabilities meeting the definition of Liabilities or Expenses.

 

(m)                              References to Indemnitee’s being or acting as “a director or officer of the Company” or “serving at the request of the Company as a director, officer, trustee, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, limited liability company or other enterprise” shall include in each case service to or actions taken while a director, officer, trustee, employee or agent of any subsidiary or predecessor of the Company.

 

(n)                                  “he” and “his” have been used for convenience and mean “she” and “her” if Indemnitee is a female.

 

2.                                       Agreement to Serve . Indemnitee agrees to serve as a director and/or officer of the Company, at the will of the Company or under separate contract, if such exists, for so long as Indemnitee is duly elected or appointed and qualified in accordance with the provisions of the Articles and, in the case of officers, the Board of Directors’ appointment, or until such time as Indemnitee tenders his resignation in writing or is removed.

 

3.                                       Indemnity of Director or Officer; D&O Insurance .

 

(a)                                  To Fullest Extent Permitted .  The Company shall indemnify and hold harmless Indemnitee against Liabilities and Expenses to the fullest extent authorized or permitted by law (including the applicable provisions of the Companies Act) and without prejudice to any other indemnity to which the Indemnitee may otherwise be entitled. The phrase “to the fullest extent permitted by law” shall include (a) to the fullest extent permitted by any provision of the Companies Act that authorizes or permits additional indemnification by agreement, or the corresponding provision of any amendment to or replacement of the Companies Act and (b) to the fullest extent authorized or permitted by any amendments to or replacements of the Companies Act adopted after the date of this Deed that increase the extent

 

3



 

to which a company may indemnify its directors and officers. Any amendment, alteration or repeal of the Companies Act that adversely affects any right of Indemnitee shall be prospective only and shall not limit or eliminate any such right with respect to any Proceeding involving any occurrence or alleged occurrence that took place prior to such amendment or repeal.

 

(b)                                  In Third Party Proceedings .  The Company further agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Indemnitee in accordance with this Section 3(b) against Liabilities and Expenses incurred in connection with any Proceeding, other than a Proceeding by or in the right of the Company, but only if Indemnitee acted in good faith and, in the case of conduct in his official capacity, in a manner he reasonably believed to be in the best interests of the Company and, in all other cases, not opposed to the best interests of the Company and with respect to any criminal proceeding, Indemnitee had no reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful. The termination of any Proceeding by judgment, order of the court, settlement, conviction or upon a plea of nolo contendere, or its equivalent, shall not, of itself, create a presumption that Indemnitee did not act in good faith and in a manner which he reasonably believed to be in or not opposed to the best interest of the Company, and with respect to any criminal Proceeding, that Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe that his conduct was unlawful.

 

(c)                                   In Proceedings By The Company . The Company hereby further agrees to indemnify and hold harmless Indemnitee in accordance with the provisions of this Section 3(c) against Expenses incurred in connection with any Proceeding by or in the right of the Company except that no indemnification shall be made under this Section 3(c) in respect of any such Proceeding if final judgement is given against the Indemnitee unless, and then only to the extent that, the court shall determine upon an Application for Relief that, despite the adjudication of liability but in view of all the circumstances of the case, the Indemnitee acted honestly and reasonably and ought fairly to be relieved from liability.

 

(d)                                  D&O Insurance .  The Company shall at its cost purchase and maintain Directors’ and Officers’ Liability Insurance (“ D&O Insurance ”) to insure Indemnitee (commonly referred to as “Side A” coverage) for any Liabilities and Expenses arising out of facts or events that occurred while Indemnitee was a director and/or officer of the Company to the extent that such insurance can be obtained at such cost and on such terms as are reasonable and do not exceed 200% of the annual cost of the D&O Insurance in place for the year in which this Deed is entered into. The Company shall for a period of six years after Indemnitee ceases to be a director or officer of the Company purchase and maintain D&O Insurance to insure Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s personal representatives/estate in respect of Indemnitee’s appointment as a director or officer of the Company to the extent that such insurance can be obtained at such cost and on such terms as are reasonable and do not exceed 200% of the annual cost of the D&O Insurance in place for the year in which this Deed is entered into.  In the event that the aggregate premium for the insurance required by this Section 3(d) exceeds the maximum amount provided, the Company shall purchase as much coverage as is 

 

4



 

reasonably obtainable for such maximum amount.  The Company shall not be in breach of its obligations under this Section 3(b) where its inability to purchase and maintain D&O Insurance to insure Indemnitee is attributable to a failure by Indemnitee to comply with Indemnitee’s obligations to the insurers. The Company shall ensure that Indemnitee is provided at all times with a copy of the Company’ current D&O Insurance policy, to the extent it relates to Indemnitee, or with a summary of the terms of the Company’s current D&O Insurance policy, to the said extent.

 

4.                                       Contribution . If the indemnification provided under Section 3 is unavailable by reason of a court decision, based on grounds other than any of those set forth in Section 15, then, in respect of any Proceeding in which the Company is jointly liable with Indemnitee, the Company shall contribute to the amount of Liabilities and Expenses actually and reasonably incurred and paid or payable by Indemnitee in such proportion as the Company reasonably and in good faith determines is appropriate to reflect (a) the relative benefits received by the Company on one hand and Indemnitee on the other from the transaction from which such Proceeding arose and (b) the relative fault of the Company on the one hand and of Indemnitee on the other in connection with the events that resulted in such Liabilities and Expenses as well as any other relevant equitable considerations. The relative fault of the Company on the one hand and of Indemnitee on the other shall be determined by reference to, among other things, the parties’ relative intent, knowledge, access to information and opportunity to correct or prevent the circumstances resulting in such Liabilities and Expenses. The Company agrees that it would not be just and equitable if contribution pursuant to this Section 4 were determined by pro rata allocation or any other method of allocation that does not take into account of the foregoing equitable considerations.

 

5.                                       Choice of Counsel .  If Indemnitee is not an officer of the Company, he, together with the other directors who are not officers of the Company (the “ Outside Directors ”), shall be entitled to employ, and be reimbursed for the fees and disbursements of, counsel separate from that chosen by Indemnitees who are officers of the Company. The principal counsel for Outside Directors (“ Principal Counsel ”) shall be determined by majority vote of the Outside Directors, and the Principal Counsel for the Indemnitees who are not Outside Directors (“ Separate Counsel ”) shall be determined by majority vote of such Indemnitees, in each case subject to the consent of the Company (not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed). The obligation of the Company to reimburse Indemnitee for the fees and disbursements of counsel hereunder shall not extend to the fees and disbursements of any counsel employed by Indemnitee other than Principal Counsel or Separate Counsel, as the case may be, except that (i) Indemnitee shall have the right to employ Indemnitee’s own counsel in any such Proceeding at Indemnitee’s expense; and (ii)  the reasonable fees and expenses of Indemnitee’s counsel shall be at the expense of the Company if (A) the employment of counsel by Indemnitee has been previously authorized by the Company, (B) Indemnitee has concluded in good faith that there may be a conflict of interest between the Company and Indemnitee or between Indemnitee and any other persons represented by the same counsel, in the conduct of any such defense, or (C) the Company, in fact, shall not have employed counsel to assume the defense of such Proceeding unless Indemnitee has interests that are different from those of the other Indemnitees or defenses available to him that are in addition to or different from those of the other Indemnitees such that Principal Counsel or Separate

 

5



 

Counsel, as the case may be, would have an actual or potential conflict of interest in representing Indemnitee.

 

6.                                       Advances of Expenses .  Expenses incurred by Indemnitee shall be paid by the Company in advance of the final disposition of the Proceeding, and within 20 calendar days after receipt of Indemnitee’s written request accompanied by substantiating documentation and Indemnitee’s (x) written affirmation that he has met the standard of conduct for indemnification and (y) written undertaking to repay such amount to the extent it is ultimately determined that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification. No interest shall accrue on the advances.  No objections based on or involving the question whether such charges meet the definition of “Expenses,” including any question regarding the reasonableness of such Expenses, shall be grounds for failure to advance to such Indemnitee, or to reimburse such Indemnitee for, the amount claimed within the 20-day period referenced in the first sentence of this Section 6, and the undertaking of Indemnitee set forth in Section 8 hereof to repay any such amount to the extent it is ultimately determined that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification shall be deemed to include an undertaking to repay any such amounts determined not to have met such definition.

 

7.                                       Right to Indemnification or Advancement of Expenses Upon Application; Procedure Upon Application .

 

(a)                                  Any indemnification under this Deed shall be made no later than 60 days after receipt by the Company of the written request of Indemnitee, accompanied by substantiating documentation, unless a determination is made within said 60-day period by (a) the Board of Directors by a majority vote of a quorum consisting of directors who are not or were not parties to the relevant Proceeding, (b) a committee of the Board of Directors designated by majority vote of the Board of Directors, even though less than a quorum or (c) if there are no such directors, or if such directors so direct, independent legal counsel in a written opinion that Indemnitee has not met the applicable standards for indemnification set forth in this Deed.

 

(b)                                  The right to indemnification or advances as provided by this Deed shall be enforceable by Indemnitee in any court of competent jurisdiction. The burden of proving that indemnification or advancement of Expenses is not appropriate shall be on the Company. Neither the failure of the Company (including its Board of Directors, any committee thereof, or independent legal counsel) to have made a determination prior to the commencement of such action that indemnification is proper in the circumstances because Indemnitee has met the applicable standards of conduct, nor an actual determination by the Company (including its Board of Directors, any committee thereof or independent legal counsel) that Indemnitee has not met such applicable standard of conduct, shall be a defense to the action or create a presumption that Indemnitee has not met the applicable standard of conduct.

 

(c)                                   The Company shall to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law be precluded from asserting in any Proceeding that the provisions of this Deed are not valid, binding and enforceable or that there is insufficient consideration for this Deed.

 

6



 

(d)                                  Promptly after receipt of a notice of a Proceeding pursuant to Section 8(b) of this Deed, the Company shall give notice of the commencement of any such Proceeding to the insurers under any D&O Insurance in accordance with the procedures set forth in the policies. Thereafter, the Company shall take all reasonable action to cause such insurers to pay, on behalf of the Indemnitee, all amounts payable as a result of such Proceeding in accordance with the terms of such policies.

 

8.                                       Undertaking by Indemnitee .

 

(a)           Indemnitee undertakes and promises to repay to the Company for all advances of Expenses pursuant to Section 6 hereof, (i) in respect of particular Restricted Proceedings if, in respect of those Proceedings (as applicable): (x) Indemnitee is convicted, (y) judgement is given against Indemnitee’ or (z) the court refuses to grant Indemnitee relief on an Application for Relief, and (ii) in respect of all other Proceedings, to the extent that it is finally determined that Indemnitee is not entitled to indemnification under this Deed.  Any repayment required by clause (i) of this subsection shall be made no later than the date when the conviction, judgement or the refusal of relief (as applicable) becomes final and any repayment otherwise required shall be made no later than 30 days after notice to Indemnitee of the final determination described in clause (ii).

 

(b)                                  Indemnitee shall give the Company notice in writing as soon as practicable (and in no event later than 5 business days following Indemnitee’s becoming aware) of any Proceeding in respect of which Indemnitee intends to seek indemnification or advancement of Expenses hereunder. Notice to the Company shall be directed to the General Counsel of the Company (or if there is no such position, the chief executive officer) and given in accordance with Section 18(e) of this Deed. Subject to Section 12 of this Deed, the delay or omission by Indemnitee to so notify the Company shall not relieve the Company from any liability that it may have to Indemnitee hereunder or otherwise

 

9.                                       Rights Hereunder Not Exclusive .  The rights to indemnification and to advancement of Expenses provided by this Deed shall not be deemed exclusive of limit or be limited by any other rights to which Indemnitee may be entitled under the Articles, applicable law, any D&O Insurance, any agreement, any shareholder vote or otherwise, both as to action in his official capacity and as to action in another capacity while holding such office; provided, that this Deed supersedes all prior written indemnification agreements between the Company and Indemnitee with respect to the subject matter hereof; provided, that Indemnitee shall reimburse the Company for amounts paid to him pursuant to such other rights to the extent such payments duplicate any payments received pursuant to this Deed.

 

10.                                Continuation of Indemnity .  All agreements and obligations of the Company contained herein shall continue during the period Indemnitee is a director or officer of the Company (or is or was serving at the request of the Company as a director, officer, employee or agent of another corporation, partnership, joint venture, trust, limited liability company or other enterprise) and

 

7



 

shall continue thereafter so long as Indemnitee shall be subject to any possible Proceeding (notwithstanding the fact that Indemnitee has ceased to serve the Company).

 

11.                                Partial Indemnification .  If Indemnitee is entitled under any provision of this Deed to indemnification by the Company or to receive advancement by the Company in each case for, some portion of, Expenses, but not, however, for the total amount thereof, the Company shall nevertheless indemnify Indemnitee, and to the extent applicable advancement of Expenses, for the portion of such Expenses to which Indemnitee is entitled.

 

12.                                Settlements .  The Company shall not be liable to indemnify Indemnitee under this Deed for any amounts paid in settlement of any Proceedings effected without the Company’s written consent. The Company shall not settle any Proceedings in any manner which would impose any penalty or limitation on Indemnitee without Indemnitee’s written consent.  Neither the Company nor Indemnitee shall unreasonably withhold or delay their consent to any proposed settlement. The Company shall not be liable to indemnify Indemnitee under this Deed with regard to any judicial award if the Company was not given a reasonable and timely opportunity, at its expense, to participate in the defense of such action.

 

13.                                Acknowledgements .

 

(a)                                  Company Acknowledgment . The Company expressly confirms and agrees that it has entered into this Deed and assumed the obligations imposed on the Company hereby in order to induce Indemnitee to serve or to continue to serve as a director or officer of the Company, and acknowledges that Indemnitee is relying upon this Deed in agreeing to serve or in continuing to serve as a director or officer of the Company.

 

(b)                                  Mutual Acknowledgment. Both the Company and Indemnitee acknowledge that in certain instances, applicable law or public policy may prohibit the Company from indemnifying its directors and officers under this Deed or otherwise. For example, the Company and Indemnitee acknowledge that the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (the “ SEC ”) has taken the position that indemnification is not permissible for liabilities arising under certain United States federal securities laws, and federal legislation prohibits indemnification for certain ERISA violations. Indemnitee understands and acknowledges that the Company has undertaken or may be required in the future to undertake with the SEC to submit the question of indemnification to a court in certain circumstances for a determination of the Company’s right under public policy to indemnify Indemnitee.

 

14.                                Enforcement .  In the event Indemnitee is required to bring any action or other proceeding to enforce rights or to collect moneys due under this Deed and is successful in such action, the Company shall reimburse Indemnitee for all of Indemnitee’s Expenses in bringing and pursuing such action.

 

15.                                Exceptions .  Any other provision herein to the contrary notwithstanding, the Company shall not be obligated pursuant to the terms of this Deed:

 

8


 

(a)                                  No Entitlement to Indemnification .  To indemnify Indemnitee for any Expenses incurred by Indemnitee with respect to any action instituted by Indemnitee to enforce or interpret this Deed, if a court of competent jurisdiction determines that Indemnitee was not entitled to indemnification hereunder;

 

(b)                                  Insured Claims .  To indemnify Indemnitee for Expenses or Liabilities of any type whatsoever (including, but not limited to, judgments, fines, ERISA excise taxes or penalties, and amounts paid in settlement) to the extent such Expenses or Liabilities have been paid directly to Indemnitee by an insurance carrier under any insurance policy maintained by the Company;

 

(c)                                   Remuneration in Violation of Law .  To indemnify Indemnitee in respect of remuneration paid to Indemnitee if it shall be determined by a final judgment or other final adjudication that such remuneration was in violation of law;

 

(d)                                  Indemnification Unlawful .  To indemnify Indemnitee if prohibited by the Companies Act or otherwise by law or a final decision by a court having jurisdiction in the matter shall determine that such indemnification is not lawful;

 

(e)                                   Fines .  To indemnify Indemnitee for any fines imposed on Indemnitee in any criminal proceeding or amounts payable by Indemnitee to a regulatory authority or Stock Exchange as a penalty in respect of non-compliance with any requirement of a regulatory nature, provided, however, that this clause (e) shall not limit the Company’s obligation to pay to Indemnitee such amounts as are required to meet Expenses of Indemnitee in defending himself in an investigation or against any action proposed to be taken by a regulatory authority or Stock Exchange;

 

(f)                                    Misconduct, Etc .  To indemnify Indemnitee on account of Indemnitee’s conduct which is finally adjudged to have been knowingly fraudulent or deliberately dishonest or to constitute intentional misconduct, a knowing violation of law, or a transaction from which Indemnitee derived an improper personal benefit;

 

(g)                                   Claims under Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 . To indemnify Indemnitee for any reimbursement of the Company by Indemnitee of any bonus or other incentive-based or equity-based compensation or of any profits realized by Indemnitee from the sale of securities of the Company, as required in each case under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (including any such reimbursements that arise from an accounting restatement of the Company pursuant to Section 304 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or the payment to the Company of profits arising from the purchase and sale by Indemnitee of securities in violation of Section 306 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.

 

(h)                                  Breach of Duty .  To indemnify Indemnitee on account of Indemnitee’s conduct which is the subject of any Proceeding brought by the Company and approved by a majority of the Board of Directors which alleges willful misappropriation of corporate assets by Indemnitee, disclosure of confidential information in violation

 

9



 

of Indemnitee’s fiduciary or contractual obligations to the Company, or any other willful and deliberate breach in bad faith of Indemnitee’s duty to the Company or its shareholders;

 

(i)                                      Claims Under Section 16(b) .  To indemnify Indemnitee for Expenses or the payment of profits arising from the purchase and sale by Indemnitee of securities in violation of Section 16(b) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, or any similar successor statute;

 

(j)                                     Taxation .  To indemnify Indemnitee for any Liabilities or Expenses relating to any taxation or national insurance payable by Indemnitee in connection with his remuneration or other benefits from the Company; or

 

(k)                                  Restricted Proceedings . To indemnify Indemnitee for any Liabilities or Expenses related to any Restricted Proceedings in which (a) Indemnitee is convicted; (b) judgement is given against Indemnitee; or (c) the court refuses to grant Indemnitee relief on the application.

 

16.           Severability .  If any provision of this Deed shall be held to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable: (a) the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions of this Deed shall not be in any way affected or impaired thereby, and (b) to the fullest extent possible, the provisions of this Deed shall be construed so as to give effect to the intent manifested by the provision held invalid, illegal or unenforceable. Each section of this Deed is a separate and independent portion of this Deed. If the indemnification to which Indemnitee is entitled with respect to any aspect of any claim varies between two or more sections of this Deed, that section providing the most comprehensive indemnification shall apply.

 

17.           Duties; No Construction as Service Agreement. This indemnity shall not modify or waive any of the duties which Indemnitee owes as a director or officer as a matter of law or under the rules of any relevant Stock Exchange or other regulatory body.  Nothing contained in this Deed shall be construed as giving Indemnitee any right to remain in the employ of the Company or any of its subsidiaries, if Indemnitee currently serves as an officer of the Company to serve in such capacity, or if Indemnitee currently serves as a director of the Company to be renominated or continue to serve as a director of the Company.  This Deed shall not be deemed an employment or service agreement between the Company (or any of its subsidiaries) and Indemnitee. Indemnitee specifically acknowledges that his service to the Company or any of its subsidiaries is at will and the Indemnitee may be discharged at any time for any reason, with or without cause, subject to payment of any required amounts pursuant to a written employment or service agreement between Indemnitee and the Company (or any of its subsidiaries), or other written agreement, plan or arrangement adopted by the Board of Directors or, with respect to an Indemnitee’s service as a director or officer of the Company, by the Articles or Companies Act.

 

18.                                Miscellaneous .

 

(a)                                  Governing Law .  This Deed and all acts and transactions pursuant hereto and the rights and obligations of the Parties shall be construed and interpreted in accordance with and governed by the laws of the England and Wales and the

 

10



 

Parties hereto submit irrevocably to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Courts of England for resolution of any dispute arising hereunder.

 

(b)                                  Entire Agreement; Modifications; Enforcement of Rights .  This Deed represents the entire understanding, and constitutes the whole agreement, in relation to its subject matter and supersedes any previous agreement between the Parties with respect thereto and, without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, excludes any warranty, condition or other undertaking implied at law or by custom, usage or course of dealing. No modification of or amendment to this Deed, nor any waiver of any rights under this Deed, shall be effective unless in writing signed by the Parties to this Deed except that the Company may amend the terms of this Deed without consent of the Indemnitee after giving Indemnitee 60 days’ notice of such proposed amendment.  No amendment effected without the Indemnitees’ consent shall affect the rights of the Indemnitee hereunder in respect of any Proceeding arising out of act, omission or event occurring before any such amendment is made or alter the obligation of the Company set forth in the second sentence of Section 3(d).  The failure by either Party to enforce any right, power or remedy under this Deed shall not be construed as a waiver of any right, power or remedy of such Party. A single or partial exercise of any right, power or remedy does not preclude any other or further exercise of that or any other right, power or remedy.

 

Construction .  This Deed is the result of negotiations between and has been reviewed by each of the Parties hereto and their respective counsel, if any; accordingly, this Deed shall be deemed to be the product of all of the Parties hereto, and no ambiguity shall be construed in favor of or against any one of the Parties hereto.  Section headings are not to be considered part of this Deed, are solely for convenience of reference, and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Deed.  For the purposes of this Deed, (i) words in the singular shall be held to include the plural and vice versa; (ii)  the terms “hereof,” “herein,” “hereunder”, and “herewith” and words of similar import shall, unless otherwise stated, be construed to refer to this Deed as a whole and not to any particular provision of this Deed, and Section references are to the Sections to this Deed unless otherwise specified; (iii) the word “including” and words of similar import when used in this Deed shall mean “including, without limitation,” unless otherwise specified; and (iv) the word “or” shall not be exclusive.

 

(c)                                   Assignment; Third Party Rights .  This Deed shall not be assignable by either Party without the consent of the other.  This Deed is made for the benefit of Indemnitee and shall inure for the benefit of the successors, personal representatives, heirs and estate of Indemnitee. Subject to the preceding sentence, no term of this Deed is enforceable under the Contracts (Rights of Third Parties) Act 1999 by a person who is not Party.

 

(d)                                  Inspection . The Indemnitee acknowledges and accepts that a copy of this Deed as varied from time to time will be available for inspection at the registered office of the Company by any shareholder of the Company in accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, and may further be disclosed in whole in part to

 

11



 

such persons as the Company determines in its absolute discretion including, without limitation, in the accounts of the Company.

 

(e)                                   Notices .  All notices, demands or other communications to be given or delivered under or by reason of the provisions of this Deed shall be in writing and shall be deemed to have been given (i) when delivered personally to the recipient, (ii) when sent to the recipient by telecopy (receipt electronically confirmed by sender’s telecopy machine) if during normal business hours of the recipient, otherwise on the next business day, (iii) one business day after the date when sent to the recipient by reputable overnight courier service (charges prepaid), or (iv) five business days after the date when mailed to the recipient by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested and postage prepaid. Such notices, demands and other communications shall be sent to the Parties at the addresses indicated on the signature page hereto, or to such other address as any Party may, from time to time, designate in writing delivered pursuant to the terms of this Section 18(e).

 

(f)                                    Counterparts .  This Deed may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original and all of which together shall constitute one instrument.

 

(g)                                   Successors and Assigns .  This Deed shall be binding upon the Company and its successors and permitted assigns and shall inure to the benefit of Indemnitee and Indemnitee’s heirs, legal representatives and assigns.  The Company shall require and cause any successor (whether direct or indirect, and whether by purchase, merger, consolidation or otherwise) to all, substantially all, or a substantial part, of the business or assets of the Company, by written agreement in form and substance satisfactory to Indemnitee, expressly to assume and agree to perform this Deed in the same manner and to the same extent that the Company would be required to perform if no such succession had taken place.

 

(h)                                  Subrogation .  In the event of payment under this Deed, the Company shall be subrogated to the extent of such payment to all of the rights of recovery of Indemnitee, who shall execute all documents required and shall do all acts that may be necessary to secure such rights and to enable the Company to effectively bring suit to enforce such rights.

 

[Balance of page intentionally left blank; signature page follows]

 

12



 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this document as a deed on and as of the day and year first above written.

 

 

VENTATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

 

 

By:

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

 

 

Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facsimile:

 

 

 

 

Witness:

 

 

Name:

 

 

Address:

 

 

 

 

 

INDEMNITEE :

 

 

 

 

 

[Name]

 

 

 

 

 

Address:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Facsimile:

 

 

 

 

Witness:

 

 

Name:

 

 

Address:

 

 

[Signature Page to Indemnification Deed]

 




Exhibit 10.7

 

 

FORM OF

 

TERM LOAN CREDIT AGREEMENT

 

dated as of [       ], 2017,

 

among

 

VENATOR FINANCE S.À R.L. and

VENATOR MATERIALS LLC,

as Borrowers,

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC,

as Holdings

 

THE LENDERS PARTY HERETO,

 

and

 

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.,
as Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent,

 


 

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.,

CITIGROUP GLOBAL MARKETS INC. ,
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED,

BARCLAYS BANK PLC,

HSBC SECURITIES (USA) INC.,

GOLDMAN SACHS BANK USA,

PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

RBC CAPITAL MARKETS(1) and

SUNTRUST BANK
as Bookrunners and Arrangers,

 

CITIGROUP GLOBAL MARKETS INC. ,
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED,

BARCLAYS BANK PLC,

HSBC SECURITIES (USA) INC.,

GOLDMAN SACHS BANK USA,

PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

RBC CAPITAL MARKETS, and

SUNTRUST BANK,
as Syndication Agents,

and

 


(1)  RBC Capital Markets is a marketing name for the investment banking activities of Royal Bank of Canada

 



 

CITIGROUP GLOBAL MARKETS INC. ,
MERRILL LYNCH, PIERCE, FENNER & SMITH INCORPORATED,

BARCLAYS BANK PLC,

HSBC SECURITIES (USA) INC.,

GOLDMAN SACHS BANK USA,

PNC BANK, NATIONAL ASSOCIATION,

RBC CAPITAL MARKETS,

SUNTRUST BANK and

COMMERZBANK AG,
as Documentation Agents

 



 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

 

Page

 

 

 

ARTICLE I

 

Definitions

 

 

 

SECTION 1.01.

Defined Terms

2

SECTION 1.02.

Terms Generally

65

SECTION 1.03.

Accounting Terms; GAAP

66

SECTION 1.04.

Effectuation of Transfers

67

SECTION 1.05.

Currencies

67

SECTION 1.06.

Required Financial Statements

67

SECTION 1.07.

Certain Calculations and Tests

67

SECTION 1.08.

Disqualified Institutions

69

SECTION 1.09.

Joint and Several

69

SECTION 1.10.

Luxembourg terms

69

SECTION 1.11.

French terms

70

SECTION 1.12.

Spanish terms

71

 

 

 

ARTICLE II

 

 

 

The Credits

 

 

 

SECTION 2.01.

Term Loans and Borrowings

73

SECTION 2.02.

Request for Borrowing

73

SECTION 2.03.

Funding of Borrowings

74

SECTION 2.04.

Interest Elections

74

SECTION 2.05.

Promise to Pay; Evidence of Debt

76

SECTION 2.06.

Repayment of Term Loans

77

SECTION 2.07.

Optional Prepayment of Term Loans

77

SECTION 2.08.

Mandatory Prepayment of Term Loans

78

SECTION 2.09.

Fees

82

SECTION 2.10.

Interest

82

SECTION 2.11.

Alternate Rate of Interest

83

SECTION 2.12.

Increased Costs

84

SECTION 2.13.

Break Funding Payments

85

SECTION 2.14.

Taxes

85

SECTION 2.15.

Payments Generally; Pro Rata Treatment; Sharing of Set-offs

89

SECTION 2.16.

Mitigation Obligations; Replacement of Lenders

92

SECTION 2.17.

Illegality

94

SECTION 2.18.

Incremental Facilities

94

SECTION 2.19.

Other Term Loans

98

SECTION 2.20.

Extensions of Term Loans

99

SECTION 2.21.

Repricing Event

100

 

 

 

ARTICLE III

 

Representations and Warranties

 

 

 

SECTION 3.01.

Organization; Powers

101

SECTION 3.02.

Authorization

101

SECTION 3.03.

Enforceability

102

SECTION 3.04.

Governmental Approvals

102

SECTION 3.05.

Title to Properties; Possession Under Leases

103

 

i



 

SECTION 3.06.

Subsidiaries

103

SECTION 3.07.

Litigation; Compliance with Laws

103

SECTION 3.08.

Federal Reserve Regulations

104

SECTION 3.09.

Investment Company Act

104

SECTION 3.10.

Use of Proceeds

104

SECTION 3.11.

Tax Returns

104

SECTION 3.12.

No Material Misstatements

105

SECTION 3.13.

Environmental Matters

105

SECTION 3.14.

Security Documents

106

SECTION 3.15.

Location of Real Property

107

SECTION 3.16.

Solvency

107

SECTION 3.17.

No Material Adverse Effect

108

SECTION 3.18.

Insurance

108

SECTION 3.19.

USA PATRIOT Act; FCPA; OFAC; Anti-Terrorism

108

SECTION 3.20.

Intellectual Property; Licenses, Etc.

109

SECTION 3.21.

Employee Benefit Plans

109

SECTION 3.22.

EEA Financial Institution

110

SECTION 3.23.

Pensions

110

SECTION 3.24.

Centre of Main Interests and Establishments

110

SECTION 3.25.

Borrowing Notice

111

 

 

 

ARTICLE IV

 

Conditions of Lending

 

 

 

SECTION 4.01.

Conditions Precedent to Closing Date

111

 

 

 

ARTICLE V

 

Affirmative Covenants

 

 

 

SECTION 5.01.

Existence; Businesses and Properties

117

SECTION 5.02.

Insurance

118

SECTION 5.03.

Taxes

118

SECTION 5.04.

Financial Statements, Reports, etc.

119

SECTION 5.05.

Litigation and Other Notices

122

SECTION 5.06.

Compliance with Laws

122

SECTION 5.07.

Maintaining Records; Access to Properties and Inspections

123

SECTION 5.08.

Use of Proceeds

123

SECTION 5.09.

Compliance with Environmental Laws

123

SECTION 5.10.

Further Assurances; Additional Security

124

SECTION 5.11.

Credit Ratings

128

SECTION 5.12.

Lender Calls

128

SECTION 5.13.

Pensions

129

SECTION 5.14.

Centre of Main Interests and Establishments

129

SECTION 5.15.

People with Significant Control regime

129

SECTION 5.16.

Post-Closing Matters

130

 

ii



 

ARTICLE VI

 

Negative Covenants

 

 

 

SECTION 6.01.

Indebtedness

130

SECTION 6.02.

Liens

136

SECTION 6.03.

[Reserved]

140

SECTION 6.04.

Investments, Loans and Advances

140

SECTION 6.05.

Mergers, Consolidations, Amalgamations, Sales of Assets and Acquisitions

143

SECTION 6.06.

Restricted Payments

147

SECTION 6.07.

Transactions with Affiliates

150

SECTION 6.08.

Business of Holdings and its Subsidiaries

153

SECTION 6.09.

Limitation on Payments and Modifications of Indebtedness; Modifications of Certificate of Incorporation, By Laws and Certain Other Agreements; etc.

153

 

 

 

ARTICLE VII

 

[Reserved]

 

ARTICLE VIII

 

Events of Default

 

 

 

SECTION 8.01.

Events of Default After Acquisition

156

SECTION 8.02.

[Reserved]

160

 

 

 

ARTICLE IX

 

The Agents

 

 

 

SECTION 9.01.

Authorization and Action

160

SECTION 9.02.

Administrative Agent’s Reliance, Indemnification, Etc.

163

SECTION 9.03.

Posting of Communications

165

SECTION 9.04.

The Administrative Agent Individually

167

SECTION 9.05.

Successor Administrative Agent

167

SECTION 9.06.

Acknowledgements of Lenders

169

SECTION 9.07.

Collateral Matters

169

SECTION 9.08.

Credit Bidding

170

SECTION 9.09.

Intercreditor Agreement

171

SECTION 9.10.

Collateral Agent as UK Security Trustee

172

SECTION 9.11.

Special provisions relating to the Agents for Spain

174

 

iii



 

ARTICLE X

 

Miscellaneous

 

SECTION 10.01.

Notices; Communications

177

SECTION 10.02.

Survival of Agreement

179

SECTION 10.03.

[Reserved]

179

SECTION 10.04.

Successors and Assigns

179

SECTION 10.05.

Expenses; Indemnity

190

SECTION 10.06.

Right of Set-off

193

SECTION 10.07.

Applicable Law

193

SECTION 10.08.

Waivers; Amendment

193

SECTION 10.09.

Interest Rate Limitation

197

SECTION 10.10.

Entire Agreement

197

SECTION 10.11.

WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL

197

SECTION 10.12.

Severability

198

SECTION 10.13.

Counterparts

198

SECTION 10.14.

Headings

198

SECTION 10.15.

Jurisdiction; Consent to Service of Process

198

SECTION 10.16.

Confidentiality

199

SECTION 10.17.

[Reserved]

200

SECTION 10.18.

Release of Liens and Guarantees

201

SECTION 10.19.

USA PATRIOT Act Notice

201

SECTION 10.20.

Canadian Anti-Money Laundering Legislation

201

SECTION 10.21.

Security Documents and Intercreditor Agreements

202

SECTION 10.22.

No Advisory or Fiduciary Responsibility

202

SECTION 10.23.

Cashless Settlement

203

SECTION 10.24.

Judgment Currency

203

SECTION 10.25.

Acknowledgement and Consent to Bail-In of EEA Financial Institutions

204

SECTION 10.26.

Holdings as Agent for Borrowers

204

 

iv



 

Exhibits and Schedules

 

Exhibit A                                                                                              Form of Assignment and Acceptance
Exhibit B                                                                                              Form of Solvency Certificates
Exhibit C                                                                                              Form of Borrowing Request
Exhibit D                                                                                              Form of Interest Election Request
Exhibit E                                                                                               Form of Affiliate Assignment and Acceptance
Exhibit F                                                                                                U.S. Tax Compliance Certificate

 

Schedule 1.01(1)                                                      Unrestricted Subsidiaries

Schedule 1.01(2)                                                      Guaranty and Security Principles

Schedule 1.01(3)                                                      Foreign Security Documents

Schedule 2.01                                                                     Initial Term Loan Commitments

Schedule 3.04                                                                     Governmental Approvals
Schedule 3.06(1)                                                      Subsidiaries

Schedule 3.06(2)                                                      Equity Interests
Schedule 3.11                                                                     Taxes
Schedule 3.13                                                                     Environmental Matters
Schedule 3.15                                                                     Owned Material Real Property
Schedule 3.18                                                                     Insurance
Schedule 3.20                                                                     Intellectual Property
Schedule 4.01(3)                                                      Local Counsel Opinions

Schedule 5.15                                                                     Post-Closing Matters
Schedule 6.01(4)                                                      Indebtedness

Schedule 6.02(2)                                                      Liens

Schedule 6.04                                                                     Investments
Schedule 6.07                                                                     Transactions with Affiliates
Schedule 10.01                                                              Notice Information

 

v


 

TERM LOAN CREDIT AGREEMENT, dated as of [        ], 2017 (as amended, amended and restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time, this “ Agreement ” or the “ Term Loan Credit Agreement ”), among VENATOR MATERIALS PLC, a public limited company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 10747130 (“ Holdings ”), VENATOR FINANCE S.À R.L., a private limited liability company ( société à responsabilité limitée) organized under the laws of Luxembourg, with its registered office at 180, route de Longwy, L-1940 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and registered with the Luxembourg register of commerce and companies ( R.C.S. Luxembourg ) under number B 215.641 (the “ Lux Borrower ”), VENATOR MATERIALS LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “ US Borrower ” and together with the Lux Borrower, the “ Borrowers ”), the Lenders party hereto from time to time and JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A., as administrative agent (in such capacity, and as further defined in Section 1.01, the “ Administrative Agent ”), and as collateral agent (in such capacity, and as further defined in Section 1.01, the “ Collateral Agent ”).

 

RECITALS

 

(1)                                  Huntsman International LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (“ Huntsman ”), which, prior to the Closing Date, shall be the direct or indirect parent of Holdings, intends to separate its Pigments and Additives Business from the remaining business and assets of Huntsman through a series of transactions that will result in the Pigments and Additives Business being owned by Holdings, in each case consummated in one or more transactions on or prior to the Closing Date (the “ Venator Consolidation Transactions ”);

 

(2)                                  On the Closing Date, Huntsman or its Subsidiaries will offer all or a portion of its capital stock in Holdings an underwritten public offering (other than a public offering pursuant to a registration statement on Form S-4 or Form S-8) pursuant to an effective registration statement filed with the SEC in accordance with the Securities Act (the “ Initial Venator Distribution Transaction ”);

 

(3)                                  In connection with the consummation of the Initial Venator Distribution Transaction, (a) the Initial Term Loan Lenders have agreed to extend credit to the Borrowers in the form of Initial Term Loans in an aggregate principal amount of $375 million, (b) certain financial institutions have agreed to extend credit to certain of the Restricted Subsidiaries of Holdings in the form of revolving loans, swingline loans and letters of credit under the ABL Credit Agreement in an aggregate principal amount of up to $300 million, and (c) the Borrowers will issue senior unsecured notes pursuant to the Senior Notes Indenture in an aggregate principal amount of up to $375 million;

 

(4)                                  On the Closing Date, the Borrowers intend to apply credit extended under this Agreement, the Senior Notes and the ABL Credit Agreement to (i) pay fees, costs and expenses incurred by Huntsman, Holdings, and their respective Subsidiaries in connection with the Venator Consolidation Transactions, the Initial Term Loan Facility, the Senior Notes and the Initial Venator Distribution Transaction, (ii) make the Special Closing Date Payments (directly or indirectly) and (iii) for general corporate purposes.

 



 

AGREEMENT

 

In consideration of the mutual covenants and agreements herein contained, the parties hereto covenant and agree as follows:

 

ARTICLE I

 

Definitions

 

SECTION 1.01.    Defined Terms .

 

As used in this Agreement, the following terms have the meanings specified below:

 

ABL Agent ” means JPMCB, in its capacity as administrative agent and collateral agent in respect of the ABL Credit Agreement, together with its successors and assigns in such capacity.

 

ABL Claims ” means the “ ABL Claims ” as defined in the Intercreditor Agreement.

 

ABL Credit Agreement ” means (i) asset-based revolving credit agreement, to be entered into as of the Closing Date, among Holdings, the Borrowers, the borrowers party thereto, the lenders party thereto and the ABL Agent, as such document may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time (ii) any other credit agreement, loan agreement, note agreement, promissory note, indenture or other agreement or instrument evidencing or governing the terms of any Indebtedness or other financial accommodation that has been incurred to refinance (subject to the limitations set forth herein (including by reference to the Intercreditor Agreement)) in whole or in part the Indebtedness and other obligations out-standing under (x) the credit agreement referred to in clause (i) or (y) any subsequent ABL Credit Agreement, unless such agreement or instrument expressly provides that it is not intended to be and is not an ABL Credit Agreement hereunder. Any reference to the ABL Credit Agreement hereunder shall be deemed a reference to any ABL Credit Agreement then in existence.

 

ABL Extended Revolving Commitments ” means “ Extended Loans ” as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement.

 

ABL Facility ” means the “ Revolving Facility ” and any “ Incremental Facility ,” each as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement.

 

ABL Loan Documents ” means the ABL Credit Agreement and the other “ Loan Documen ts” as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement, as each such document may be amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified.

 

ABL Obligations ” means the “ Obligations ” as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement.

 

2



 

ABL Priority Collateral ” means the “ ABL Priority Collateral ” as defined in the Intercreditor Agreement.

 

ABL Priority Collateral Asset Sale ” means any Asset Sale that consists of or includes the disposition of ABL Priority Collateral outside the ordinary course of business.

 

ABL Security Documents ” means the “ Security Documents ” as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement.

 

ABR ” means, for any day, a rate per annum equal to the greatest of:

 

(1)                                  the NYFRB Rate in effect on such day plus ½ of 1%;

 

(2)                                  the Prime Rate in effect on such day;

 

(3)                                  the Adjusted LIBO Rate plus  1.00%; and

 

(4)                                  solely in respect of Initial Term Loans, 1.00%;

 

provided that for the purpose of this definition, any change in the ABR due to a change in the Prime Rate, the NYFRB Rate or the Adjusted LIBO Rate shall be effective from and including the effective date of such change in the Prime Rate, the NYFRB Rate or the Adjusted LIBO Rate, respectively.

 

ABR Borrowing ” means a Borrowing comprised of ABR Loans.

 

ABR Loan ” means any Term Loan bearing interest at a rate determined by reference to the ABR.

 

Additional Lender ” means the banks, financial institutions and other institutional lenders and investors (other than natural persons) that become Lenders in connection with an Incremental Term Loan or Other Term Loan; provided that no Disqualified Institution may be an Additional Lender.

 

Adjusted LIBO Rate ” means, with respect to any Eurocurrency Borrowing for any Interest Period, an interest rate per annum equal to the greater of (1) the LIBO Rate in effect for such Interest Period multiplied by the Statutory Reserve Rate applicable to such Eurocurrency Borrowing, if any, and (2) solely in respect of the Initial Term Loans, 0.00%.

 

Administrative Agent ” means JPMCB, in its capacity as administrative agent for itself and the Lenders hereunder, and any duly appointed successor in such capacity.

 

Administrative Agent Fees ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.09(1).

 

Administrative Questionnaire ” means an Administrative Questionnaire in a form supplied by the Administrative Agent.

 

3



 

Affiliate ” means, when used with respect to a specified Person, another Person that directly, or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, Controls or is Controlled by or is under common Control with the Person specified.

 

Affiliate Assignment and Acceptance ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(10)(b).

 

Affiliated Lender ” shall mean a Non-Debt Fund Affiliate or a Debt Fund Affiliate.

 

Agent Indemnitee ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 9.02(2).

 

Agents ” means the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent, in their respective capacities as such.

 

Agreement ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the preamble of this Agreement.

 

Annual Financial Statements ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.04(1).

 

Anti-Corruption Laws ” means all laws, rules, and regulations of any jurisdiction applicable Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries from time to time concerning or relating to bribery or corruption.

 

Anti-Terrorism Laws ” means any applicable law relating to terrorism, trade sanctions programs and embargoes, money laundering or bribery, including Canadian Anti-Money Laundering and Anti-Terrorism Legislation, and any regulation, or order promulgated, issued or enforced pursuant to such laws by an applicable Governmental Authority, all as amended, supplemented or replaced from time to time.

 

Applicable Margin ” means:

 

(1)                                  with respect to any Initial Term Loans, (a) for ABR Loans, 2.00% and (b) for Eurocurrency Loans, 3.00%%;

 

(2)                                  with respect to any Incremental Term Loans, the “Applicable Margin” set forth in the Incremental Facility Amendment establishing the terms thereof;

 

(3)                                  with respect to any Other Term Loans, the “Applicable Margin” set forth in the Refinancing Amendment establishing the terms thereof; and

 

(4)                                  with respect to any Extended Term Loans, the “Applicable Margin” set forth in the Extension Amendment establishing the terms thereof.

 

Applicable Parties ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 9.03(3).

 

4



 

Approved Electronic Platform ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 9.04(1).

 

Approved Fund ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(2).

 

Arranger ” means each of JPMCB, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Barclays Bank PLC, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, PNC Bank, National Association, RBC Capital Markets and SunTrust Bank.

 

Asset Sale ” means any loss, damage, destruction or condemnation of, or any sale, conveyance, transfer or other disposition (whether in a single transaction or a series of related transactions) to any Person of any asset or assets (including by way of a Sale-Leaseback Transaction) of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary.

 

Asset Sale Proceeds Account ” means one or more deposit accounts or securities accounts (as such terms are defined in the Uniform Commercial Code) containing only the Net Cash Proceeds of Asset Sales or any Below Threshold Asset Sale Proceeds, any investments thereof in Cash Equivalents and the proceeds thereof, pending the application of such Net Cash Proceeds in accordance with Section 2.08(1), which accounts have been pledged to the Collateral Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, on a first-priority basis pursuant to documentation in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Collateral Agent.

 

Assignee ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(2).

 

Assignment and Acceptance ” means an assignment and acceptance entered into by a Lender and an Assignee, and accepted by the Administrative Agent and the Borrowers (if required by Section 10.04), substantially in the form of Exhibit A or such other form that is approved by the Administrative Agent and reasonably satisfactory to the Borrowers.

 

Available Amount ” means, as of any date, an amount, not less than zero, determined on a cumulative basis, equal to the sum, without duplication, of:

 

(1)                                  $25 million; plus

 

(2)                                  50% of Consolidated Net Income for the period (treated as one accounting period) from the Closing Date to the end of the most recent period of four consecutive fiscal quarters for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered, plus

 

(3)                                  the cumulative amount of cash proceeds and the fair market value of property (other than cash) received by the Borrowers or any Parent Entity in connection with the sale or issuance of Equity Interests of the Borrowers or any Parent Entity after the Closing Date and on or prior to such date (including upon exercise of warrants or options or in connection with a Permitted Acquisition or other Permitted Investment) which, with respect to proceeds or property received in connection with the sale or issuance of Equity Interests of a Parent Entity (other than Holdings), have been contributed to the capital of Holdings or exchanged for Equity Interest of Holdings, other than the proceeds of

 

5



 

Disqualified Stock, Excluded Contributions, Cure Amounts and equity used to incur Contribution Indebtedness; plus

 

(4)                                  100% of the aggregate amount of cash contributions to the capital of Holdings and the fair market value of property other than cash contributed to the capital of Holdings after the Closing Date, other than the proceeds of Disqualified Stock, Excluded Contributions, Cure Amounts and equity used to incur Contribution Indebtedness; plus

 

(5)                                  100% of the aggregate principal amount of any Indebtedness (including the liquidation preference or maximum fixed repurchase price, as the case may be, of any Disqualified Stock) of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary issued after the Closing Date (other than Indebtedness (including Disqualified Stock) issued to Holdings, the Borrowers or a Restricted Subsidiary), which has been converted into or exchanged for Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stocks) of the Borrowers or any Parent Entity; plus

 

(6)                                  100% of the aggregate amount of cash (and the fair market value of property other than cash) received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary after the Closing Date from (a) the sale (other than to the Borrowers or any Subsidiary) of the Equity Interests of any Unrestricted Subsidiary or (b) any dividend or other distribution (including any payment on intercompany Indebtedness) by any such Unrestricted Subsidiary; plus

 

(7)                                  in the event any Unrestricted Subsidiary becomes a Restricted Subsidiary or has been merged, consolidated or amalgamated with or into, or transfers or conveys its assets to, or is liquidated into, Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary, the lesser of (a) the fair market value of the Investments of the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries in such Unrestricted Subsidiary at the time such Unrestricted Subsidiary becomes a Restricted Subsidiary or at the time of such merger, consolidation, amalgamation, transfer or liquidation (or of the assets transferred or conveyed, as applicable) and (b) the fair market value of the original Investments by the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries in such Unrestricted Subsidiary, in each case, as determined by a Responsible Officer of Holdings in good faith; plus

 

(8)                                  any mandatory prepayment declined by a Lender; minus

 

(9)                                  the use of such Available Amount since the Closing Date.

 

Available Incremental Term Loan Facility Amount ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.18(3).

 

Bail-In Action ” means the exercise of any Write-Down and Conversion Powers by the applicable EEA Resolution Authority in respect of any liability of an EEA Financial Institution.

 

Bail-In Legislation ” means, with respect to any EEA Member Country implementing Article 55 of Directive 2014/59/EU of the European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union, the implementing law for such EEA Member Country from time to time which is described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule.

 

6



 

Below Threshold Asset Sale Proceeds ” means the cash proceeds of Asset Sales involving aggregate consideration of $5 million or less.

 

Beneficial Owner ” has the meaning given to that term in Rule 13d-3 and Rule 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, except that in calculating the beneficial ownership of any particular “person” (as that term is used in Section 13(d)(3) of the Exchange Act), such “person” will not be deemed to have beneficial ownership of any securities that such “person” has the right to acquire or vote only upon the happening of any future event or contingency (including the passage of time) that has not yet occurred.  The terms “ Beneficially Owns ,” “ Beneficially Owned ” and “ Beneficial Ownership ” have a corresponding meaning.

 

Board ” means the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System of the United States of America.

 

Board of Directors ” means, as to any Person, the board of directors, board of managers or other governing body of such Person, or if such Person is owned or managed by a single entity, the board of directors, board of managers or other governing body of such entity, and the term “ directors ” means members of the Board of Directors.

 

Borrowers ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.  Unless the context requires otherwise, each reference herein or in any other Loan Document to a determination may be a Borrower or the Borrowers, means and is a reference to a determination by Holdings.

 

Borrower Materials ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 9.03(1).

 

Borrowing ” means a group of Term Loans of a single Type made on a single date under a single Term Facility and, in the case of Eurocurrency Loans, as to which a single Interest Period is in effect.

 

Borrowing Request ” means a request by the Borrowers in accordance with the terms of Section 2.02 and substantially in the form of Exhibit C or such other form as may be approved by the Administrative Agent (including any form on an electronic platform or electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the Administrative Agent).

 

Budget ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.04(5).

 

Business Day ” means any day other than a Saturday, Sunday or other day on which commercial banks in New York City and Luxembourg are authorized or required by law to close; provided that when used in connection with a Eurocurrency Loan, the term “Business Day” also excludes any day on which banks are not open for dealings in deposits in the London interbank market.

 

Canadian Anti-Money Laundering & Anti-Terrorism Legislation ” means the Criminal Code , R.S.C. 1985, c. C-46, The Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act , S.C. 2000, c. 17 (the “ Proceeds of Crime Act ”) and the United Nations Act , R.S.C. 1985, c. U-2 or any similar Canadian legislation, together with all rules, regulations and

 

7



 

interpretations thereunder or related thereto including, without limitation, the Regulations Implementing the United Nations Resolutions on the Suppression of Terrorism and the United Nations Al-Qaida and Taliban Regulations promulgated under the United Nations Act.

 

Canadian Blocked Person ” means any Person that is a “designated person”, “politically exposed foreign person” or “terrorist group” as described in any Canadian Economic Sanctions and Export Control Laws.

 

Canadian Defined Benefit Plan ” shall mean a pension plan for the purposes of any applicable pension benefits standards statute or regulation in Canada, which contains a “defined benefit provision,” as defined in subsection 147.1(1) of the Income Tax Act (Canada).

 

Canadian Economic Sanctions and Export Control Laws ” means any Canadian laws, regulations or orders governing transactions in controlled goods or technologies or dealings with countries, entities, organizations, or individuals subject to economic sanctions and similar measures, including the Special Economic Measures Act (Canada), the United Nations Act (Canada), the Freezing Assets of Corrupt Foreign Officials Act (Canada), Part II.1 of the Criminal Code (Canada) and the Export and Import Permits Act (Canada), and any related regulations.

 

Canadian Pension Plan ” shall mean a pension plan that is covered by the applicable pension standards laws of any jurisdiction in Canada including the PBA and the Income Tax Act (Canada) and that is either (a) maintained or sponsored by a Canadian Subsidiary for employees or (b) maintained pursuant to a collective bargaining agreement, or other arrangement under which more than one employer makes contributions and to which any Canadian Subsidiary is making or accruing an obligation to make contributions or has within the preceding five years made or accrued such contributions.

 

Capital Expenditures ” means, for any period, the aggregate of all expenditures incurred by Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries during such period that, in accordance with GAAP, are or should be included in “additions to property, plant or equipment” or similar items reflected in the consolidated statement of cash flows of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries for such period.

 

Capital Lease Obligations ” means, with respect to any Person, the obligations of such Person to pay rent or other amounts under any lease of (or other similar arrangement conveying the right to use) real or personal property, or a combination thereof, which obligations are required to be classified and accounted for as capital leases on a balance sheet of such Person under GAAP and, for purposes hereof, the amount of such obligations at any time will be the capitalized amount thereof at such time determined in accordance with GAAP.

 

Capital Stock ” means:

 

(1)                                  in the case of a corporation or a company, corporate stock or share capital;

 

(2)                                  in the case of an association or business entity, any and all shares, interests, participations, rights or other equivalents (however designated) of corporate stock;

 

8



 

(3)                                  in the case of a partnership or limited liability company, partnership or membership interests (whether general or limited); and

 

(4)                                  any other interest or participation that confers on a Person the right to receive a share of the profits and losses of, or distributions of assets of, the issuing Person.

 

Captive Insurance Company ” means a Subsidiary of the Borrowers created solely for providing self-insurance for Holdings and its Subsidiaries and engaging in no other activities other than activities ancillary thereto and necessary for the maintenance of corporate existence.

 

Cash Equivalents ” means:

 

(1)                                  Dollars, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, pounds sterling, euros or any other national currency of any participating member of the European Union or, in the case of any Foreign Subsidiary, any local currencies held by it from time to time in the ordinary course of business and not for speculation;

 

(2)                                  direct obligations of the United States of America, the United Kingdom or any member of the European Union or any agency thereof or obligations guaranteed by the United States of America, the United Kingdom or any member of the European Union or any agency thereof, in each case, with maturities not exceeding two years;

 

(3)                                  time deposits, eurodollar time deposits, certificates of deposit and money market deposits, in each case, with maturities not exceeding one year from the date of acquisition thereof, and overnight bank deposits, in each case, with any commercial bank having capital, surplus and undivided profits of not less than $250.0 million;

 

(4)                                  repurchase obligations for underlying securities of the types described in clauses (2) and (3) above and clause (6) below entered into with a bank meeting the qualifications described in clause (3) above;

 

(5)                                  commercial paper or variable or fixed rate notes maturing not more than one year after the date of acquisition issued by a corporation rated at least “P-1” by Moody’s or “A-1” by S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized rating agency);

 

(6)                                  securities with maturities of two years or less from the date of acquisition issued or fully guaranteed by any state, commonwealth or territory of the United States of America, or by any political subdivision or taxing authority thereof, having one of the two highest rating categories obtainable from either Moody’s or S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized rating agency);

 

(7)                                  Indebtedness issued by Persons  with a rating of at least “A 2” by Moody’s or “A” by S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized rating agency), in each case, with maturities not exceeding one year from the date of acquisition, and marketable short-term money market and similar securities having a

 

9



 

rating of at least “P-2” or “A-2” from either Moody’s or S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized rating agency);

 

(8)                                  Investments in money market funds with average maturities of 12 months or less from the date of acquisition that are rated “Aaa3” by Moody’s and “AAA” by S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized rating agency);

 

(9)                                  instruments equivalent to those referred to in clauses (1) through (8) above denominated in any foreign currency comparable in credit quality and tenor to those referred to above customarily utilized in the countries where any such Restricted Subsidiary is located or in which such Investment is made; and

 

(10)                           shares of mutual funds whose investment guidelines restrict 95% of such funds’ investments to those satisfying the provisions of clauses (1) through (9) above.

 

CFC ” means any “controlled foreign corporation” within the meaning of Section 957 of the Code owned by a Domestic Subsidiary.

 

A “ Change in Control ” will be deemed to occur if, at any time,

 

(1)                                  any person or “group” (within the meaning of Rules 13d-3 and 13d-5 under the Exchange Act, but excluding any employee benefit plan of such Person and its subsidiaries and any Person or entity acting in its capacity as trustee, agent or other fiduciary or administrator of any such plan), other than the Permitted Holders, acquires Beneficial Ownership of Voting Stock of Holdings representing more than 40% of the aggregate ordinary voting power for the election of directors represented by the issued and outstanding Equity Interests of Holdings (determined on a fully diluted basis but without giving effect to contingent voting rights that have not yet vested), unless the Permitted Holders otherwise have the right (pursuant to contract, proxy or otherwise), directly or indirectly, to designate, nominate or appoint (and do so designate, nominate or appoint) a majority of the Board of Directors of the Borrower;

 

(2)                                  Holdings ceases to Beneficially Own, directly or indirectly, 100% of the issued and outstanding Equity Interests of any Borrower, other than as a result of a transaction permitted hereunder.

 

Change in Law ” means:

 

(1)                                  the adoption of any law, rule or regulation after the Closing Date;

 

(3)                                  any change in law, rule or regulation or in the interpretation or application thereof by any Governmental Authority after the Closing Date; or

 

(4)                                  compliance by any Lender (or, for purposes of Section 2.12(2), by any Lending Office of such Lender or by such Lender’s holding company, if any) with any written request, guideline or directive (whether or not having the force of law) of any Governmental Authority, made or issued after the Closing Date; provided that, notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, (a) the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection

 

10


 

Act and all requests, rules, guidelines or directives promulgated thereunder or issued in connection therewith and (b) all requests, rules, guidelines or directives promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any successor or similar authority) or the United States of America or foreign regulatory authorities, in each case pursuant to Basel III, in each case will be deemed to be a “Change in Law,” regardless of the date enacted, adopted, promulgated or issued.

 

Charges ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.09.

 

Clariant ” means Clariant Ltd, a Swiss corporation, and any successors thereto.

 

Class ” means, with respect to a Term Facility, (a) when used with respect to Lenders, the Lenders under such Term Facility, and (b) when used with respect to Term Loans, Borrowings or Commitments, Term Loans, Borrowings or Commitments under such Term Facility.

 

Closing Date ” means the date on which the conditions precedent set forth in Section 4.01 are satisfied (or waived in accordance with Section 10.08 ).

 

Code ” means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (unless as specifically provided otherwise).

 

Collateral ” means all property that is subject to any Lien in favor of the Collateral Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties pursuant to any Security Document; provided, however, that the Collateral (other than any assets subject to an English law floating charge) shall not include (i) any US Excluded Assets or (ii) any assets that would be excluded pursuant to the Guaranty and Security Principles.

 

Collateral Agent ” means JPMCB, in its capacity as Collateral Agent for itself and the other Secured Parties (including in accordance with Section 6 ( Parallel Debt Obligations ) of the Intercreditor Agreement), and any duly appointed successor in that capacity.

 

COMI ” means the centre of main interests (as that term is used in Article 3(1) of the EU Insolvency Regulation).

 

Commitments ” means, the Initial Term Loan Commitment, and any commitments in respect of any Incremental Term Loan, Extended Term Loan or Other Term Loan.

 

Commodity Exchange Act ” means the Commodity Exchange Act (7 U.S.C. § 1 et seq.), as amended from time to time, and any successor statute.

 

Connection Income Taxes ” means Other Connection Taxes that are imposed on or measured by net income (however denominated) or that are franchise Taxes or branch profits Taxes.

 

Consolidated Debt ” means, as of any date, the sum (without duplication) of all Indebtedness (other than letters of credit or bank guarantees, to the extent undrawn) consisting of

 

11



 

Capital Lease Obligations, Indebtedness for borrowed money, Disqualified Stock and Indebtedness in respect of the deferred purchase price of property or services of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries and all Guarantees of the foregoing, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP, based upon the most recent quarter-end financial statements available internally as of the date of determination, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

Consolidated EBITDA ” means, for any period, the Consolidated Net Income of Holdings for such period:

 

(1)                                  increased , in each case to the extent deducted in calculating such Consolidated Net Income (and without duplication), by:

 

(a)                                  provision for taxes based on income, profits or capital, including state, franchise, excise and similar taxes and foreign withholding taxes paid or accrued, including any penalties and interest relating to any tax examinations, and state taxes in lieu of business fees (including business license fees) and payroll tax credits, income tax credits and similar tax credits, and including an amount equal to the amount of tax distributions actually made to the holders of Equity Interests of any Parent Entity in respect of such period (in each case, to the extent attributable to the operations of Holdings and its Subsidiaries), which will be included as though such amounts had been paid as income taxes directly by Holdings; plus

 

(b)                                  cash dividend payments (excluding items eliminated in consolidation) on any Disqualified Stock of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(c)                                   Consolidated Interest Expense; plus

 

(d)                                  all depreciation and amortization charges and expenses; plus

 

(e)                                   all

 

(i)                                      losses, charges and expenses relating to the Transactions;

 

(ii)                                   transaction fees, costs and expenses incurred in connection with the consummation of any transaction that is out of the ordinary course of business (or any transaction proposed but not consummated) permitted under this Agreement, including equity issuances, investments, acquisitions, dispositions, recapitalizations, mergers, option buyouts and the incurrence, modification or repayment of Indebtedness permitted to be incurred under this Agreement (including any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof) or any amendments, waivers or other modifications under the agreements relating to such Indebtedness or similar transactions; and

 

(iii)                                without duplication of any of the foregoing, non-operating or non-recurring professional fees, costs and expenses for such period; plus

 

12



 

(f)                                    any expense or deduction attributable to minority Equity Interests of third parties in any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings; plus

 

(g)                                   the amount of management, monitoring, consulting, transaction and advisory fees (including termination fees) and related indemnities, charges and expenses paid or accrued to or on behalf of any Parent Entity (other than Holdings) or any of the Permitted Holders, in each case, to the extent permitted by Section 6.07; plus

 

(h)                                  earn-out obligations incurred in connection with any Permitted Acquisition or other Investment and paid or accrued during such period; plus

 

(i)                                      all charges, costs, expenses, accruals or reserves in connection with the rollover, acceleration or payout of Equity Interests held by officers or employees of Holdings and its Subsidiaries and all losses, charges and expenses related to payments made to holders of options or other derivative Equity Interests in the common equity of any Parent Entity in connection with, or as a result of, any distribution being made to equityholders of such Person or any of its direct or indirect parents, which payments are being made to compensate such option holders as though they were equityholders at the time of, and entitled to share in, such distribution; plus

 

(j)                                     all non-cash losses, charges and expenses, including any write-offs or write-downs; provided that if any such non-cash charge represents an accrual or reserve for potential cash items in any future four-fiscal quarter period (i) Holdings may determine not to add back such non-cash charge in the period for which Consolidated EBITDA is being calculated and (ii) to the extent Holdings does decide to add back such non-cash charge, the cash payment in respect thereof in such future four-fiscal quarter period will be subtracted from Consolidated EBITDA for such future four-fiscal quarter period; plus

 

(k)                                  without duplication, cost savings, operating expense reductions and cost synergies in connection with all events and transactions described in the definition of “Pro Forma Basis” ( provided that, in all such cases, any such addbacks that are pro forma cost savings, operating expense reductions and cost synergies shall be subject to the limitations described in the definition of “Pro Forma Basis”); plus

 

(l)                                      non-recurring incremental costs arising out of the temporary interruption of the supply of goods to Holdings and its Subsidiaries; plus

 

(m)                              charges resulting from the write-off of capital expenditures arising from the cancellation of project or design plans; and

 

(2)                                  decreased , without duplication and to the extent increasing such Consolidated Net Income for such period, by non-cash gains (excluding any non-cash gains that represent the reversal of any accrual of, or cash reserve for, anticipated cash charges that were

 

13



 

deducted (and not added back) in the calculation of Consolidated EBITDA for any prior period ending after the Closing Date).

 

For the purposes of determining the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio, the Interest Coverage Ratio or the Total Net Leverage Ratio for any relevant period, Consolidated EBITDA shall be deemed to equal (a) $[      ] for the fiscal quarter ended June 30, 2016, (b) $[      ] for the fiscal quarter ended September 30, 2016, (c) $[       ] for the fiscal quarter ended December 31, 2016 and (d) $[      ] for the fiscal quarter ended March 31, 2017 (it being understood that such amounts are subject to adjustments, as and to the extent otherwise contemplated in this Agreement, any calculation on a Pro Forma Basis).

 

Consolidated First Lien Net Debt ” means, as of any date, all Consolidated Debt as of such date that is (x) secured by a Lien on the Term Priority Collateral that is pari passu with the Lien securing the Obligations or (y) secured by a Lien on the ABL Priority Collateral that is senior to or pari passu with the Lien securing the Obligations, plus Capital Lease Obligations, minus all Unrestricted Cash as of such date, in each case, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP based upon the most recent quarter-end financial statements available internally as of the date of determination, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis; provided that for purposes of calculating the amount of Consolidated First Lien Net Debt with respect to any Indebtedness being incurred in reliance on compliance with any financial ratio-based incurrence test, Unrestricted Cash will not include any proceeds received from such Indebtedness.  For the avoidance of doubt, the Obligations and the Indebtedness in respect of the ABL Credit Agreement (excluding undrawn commitments thereunder) will constitute Consolidated First Lien Net Debt.

 

Consolidated Interest Expense ” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the sum, without duplication, of:

 

(1)                                  the aggregate interest expense of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, calculated on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP, to the extent such expense was deducted in computing Consolidated Net Income (including pay-in-kind interest payments, amortization of original issue discount, the interest component of Capital Lease Obligations and net payments and receipts (if any) pursuant to Hedge Agreements relating to interest rates (other than in connection with the early termination thereof) but excluding any non-cash interest expense attributable to the movement in the mark-to-market valuation of hedging obligations, all amortization and write-offs of deferred financing fees, debt issuance costs, commissions, fees and expenses and expensing of any bridge, commitment or other financing fees, and all discounts, commissions, fees and other charges associated with any Receivables Facility); plus

 

(2)                                  consolidated capitalized interest of the referent Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, whether paid or accrued; plus

 

(3)                                  any amounts paid or payable in respect of interest on Indebtedness the proceeds of which have been contributed to the referent Person and that has been Guaranteed by the referent Person; less

 

14



 

(4)                                  interest income of the referent Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period;

 

provided that when determining Consolidated Interest Expense in respect of any four-quarter period ending prior to the first anniversary of the Closing Date, Consolidated Interest Expense will be calculated by multiplying the aggregate Consolidated Interest Expense accrued since the Closing Date by 365 and then dividing such product by the number of days from and including the Closing Date to and including the last day of such period.  For purposes of this definition, interest on Capital Lease Obligations will be deemed to accrue at the interest rate reasonably determined by Holdings to be the rate of interest implicit in such Capital Lease Obligations in accordance with GAAP.

 

Consolidated Net Income ” means, with respect to any Person for any period, the aggregate of the net income (or loss) of such Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries for such period, calculated on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP (with such net income (or loss) being calculated after deducting the amounts for such period described in clause (1)(a) of the definition of “Consolidated EBITDA”, if any) and before any deduction for preferred stock dividends; provided that:

 

(1)                                  all net after-tax extraordinary, nonrecurring or unusual gains, losses, income, expenses and charges, and in any event including, without limitation, all restructuring, severance, relocation, retention, consolidation, integration or other similar charges and expenses, contract termination costs, litigation costs, excess pension charges, system establishment charges, start-up or closure or transition costs, expenses related to any reconstruction, decommissioning, recommissioning or reconfiguration of fixed assets for alternative uses, fees, expenses or charges relating to curtailments or modifications to pension and post-retirement employee benefit plans in connection with the Transactions or otherwise, expenses associated with strategic initiatives, facilities shutdown and opening and pre-opening costs and expenses (including pre-opening and opening of facilities and all income, loss, charges and expenses associated with facilities closed in any period, or scheduled for closure within 12 months of the date on which Consolidated Net Income is being calculated), and any fees, expenses, charges or change in control payments related to the Transactions or otherwise (including any transition-related expenses incurred before, on or after the Closing Date), will be excluded;

 

(2)                                  all net after-tax income, loss, expense or charge from abandoned, closed or discontinued operations and any net after-tax gain or loss on the disposal of abandoned, closed or discontinued operations will be excluded;

 

(3)                                  all net after-tax gain, loss, expense or charge attributable to business dispositions and asset dispositions other than in the ordinary course of business (as determined in good faith by Holdings) will be excluded;

 

(4)                                  all net after-tax income, loss, expense or charge attributable to the early extinguishment or cancellation of Indebtedness, Hedge Agreements or other derivative instruments will be excluded;

 

15



 

(5)                                  all non-cash gain, loss, expense or charge attributable to the movement in the mark-to-market valuation of Hedge Agreements or other derivative instruments will be excluded;

 

(6)                                  (a) the net income for such period of any Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary of the referent Person, or that is accounted for by the equity method of accounting, will be included only to the extent of the amount of dividends or distributions or other payments are or are permitted to be paid in cash (or converted into cash) to the referent Person or a Restricted Subsidiary thereof in respect of such period; and (b) the net income for such period will include any ordinary course dividends, distributions or other payments in cash received from any such Person during such period in excess of the amounts included in clause (a) hereof;

 

(7)                                  the cumulative effect of a change in accounting principles during such period will be excluded;

 

(8)                                  the effects of purchase accounting, fair value accounting or recapitalization accounting adjustments (including the effects of such adjustments pushed down to the referent Person and its Restricted Subsidiaries) resulting from the application of purchase accounting, fair value accounting or recapitalization accounting in relation to any acquisition consummated before or after the Closing Date, and the amortization, write-down or write-off of any amounts thereof, net of taxes, will be excluded;

 

(9)                                  all non-cash impairment charges and asset write-ups, write-downs and write-offs will be excluded;

 

(10)                           all non-cash expenses realized in connection with or resulting from stock option plans, employee benefit plans or agreements or post-employment benefit plans or agreements, or grants or sales of stock, stock appreciation or similar rights, stock options, restricted stock, preferred stock or other similar rights will be excluded;

 

(11)                           any costs or expenses incurred in connection with the payment of dividend equivalent rights to option holders pursuant to any management equity plan, stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or agreement or post-employment benefit plan or agreement will be excluded;

 

(12)                           accruals and reserves for liabilities or expenses that are established or adjusted as a result of the Transactions within 18 months after the Closing Date will be excluded;

 

(13)                           all amortization and write-offs of deferred financing fees, debt issuance costs, commissions, fees and expenses and expensing of any bridge, commitment or other financing fees, will be excluded;

 

(14)                           any currency translation gains and losses related to changes in currency exchange rates (including remeasurements of Indebtedness and any net loss or gain resulting from Hedge Agreements for currency exchange risk), will be excluded;

 

(15)                           [reserved];

 

16



 

(16)                           expenses and lost profits with respect to liability or casualty events or business interruption will be disregarded to the extent covered by insurance and actually reimbursed, or, so long as such Person has made a determination that there exists reasonable evidence that such amount will in fact be reimbursed by the insurer, but only to the extent that such amount (a) has not been denied by the applicable carrier in writing and (b) is in fact reimbursed within 365 days of the date on which such liability was discovered or such casualty event or business interruption occurred (with a deduction for any amounts so added back that are not reimbursed within such 365-day period); provided that any proceeds of such reimbursement when received will be excluded from the calculation of Consolidated Net Income to the extent the expense or lost profit reimbursed was previously disregarded pursuant to this clause (16);

 

(17)                           losses, charges and expenses that are covered by indemnification or other reimbursement provisions in connection with any asset disposition will be excluded to the extent actually reimbursed, or, so long as such Person has made a determination that a reasonable basis exists for indemnification or reimbursement, but only to the extent that such amount is in fact indemnified or reimbursed within 365 days of such determination (with a deduction in the applicable future period for any amount so added back to the extent not so indemnified or reimbursed within such 365 days);

 

(18)                           [reserved]; and

 

(19)                           non-cash charges for deferred tax asset valuation allowances will be excluded.

 

Consolidated Total Assets ” means, as of any date, the total assets of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP, determined based upon the most recent quarter-end financial statements available internally as of the date of determination, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

Consolidated Total Net Debt ” means, as of any date, the Consolidated Debt as of such date minus all Unrestricted Cash as of such date, in each case, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP based upon the most recent quarter-end financial statements available internally as of the date of determination, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis; provided that for purposes of calculating the Consolidated Total Net Debt with respect to any Indebtedness being incurred in reliance on compliance with any financial ratio-based incurrence test, Unrestricted Cash will not include any proceeds received from such Indebtedness.  For the avoidance of doubt, the Obligations and the Indebtedness in respect of the ABL Credit Agreement (excluding undrawn commitments thereunder) will constitute Consolidated Total Net Debt.

 

continuing ” means, with respect to any Default or Event of Default, that such Default or Event of Default has not been cured or waived.

 

Contribution Indebtedness ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.01(16).

 

17



 

Contribution Notice ” means a contribution notice issued by the Pensions Regulator under section 38 or section 47 of the Pensions Act 2004 (UK).

 

Control ” means the possession, directly or indirectly, of the power to direct or cause the direction of the management or policies of a Person, whether through the ownership of voting securities, by contract or otherwise, and the terms “ Controlling ” and “ Controlled ” will have correlative meanings, it being specified that the “ Control ” of the French Loan Parties and their Affiliates will be determined in accordance with article L.233-3 of the French Code de commerce .

 

Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness ” means secured or unsecured Indebtedness of a Borrower in the form of one or more series of term loans or notes; provided that:

 

(1)                                  such Indebtedness is incurred or otherwise obtained (including by means of the extension or renewal of existing Indebtedness) in exchange for, or to extend, renew, replace or refinance, in whole or part (and such exchange, extension, renewal, replacement or refinancing occurs substantially concurrently with such incurrence or obtainment), Indebtedness (“ Refinanced Debt ”) that is either Term Loans or other Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness;

 

(2)                                  such Indebtedness is in an original aggregate principal amount not greater than the principal amount of the Refinanced Debt ( plus the amount of unpaid accrued or capitalized interest and premiums thereon (including tender premiums), underwriting discounts, original issue discount, defeasance costs, fees, commissions and expenses);

 

(3)                                  the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of such Indebtedness is equal to or longer than the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Refinanced Debt, and the final maturity date of such Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness may not be earlier than the Latest Maturity Date;

 

(4)                                  such Indebtedness may participate on a pro rata basis or on a less than pro rata basis (but not on a greater than pro rata basis) in any voluntary or mandatory prepayments hereunder provided that in no event shall such Indebtedness be permitted to be voluntarily or mandatorily prepaid prior to the repayment in full of all Term Facilities, unless accompanied by a ratable prepayment of each Term Facility hereunder;

 

(5)                                  such Indebtedness is not secured by any assets or property of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary that does not constitute Collateral (subject to customary exceptions for cash collateral in favor of an agent, letter of credit issuer or similar “fronting” lender);

 

(6)                                  such Indebtedness is not guaranteed by any Subsidiary of Holdings other than a Subsidiary Loan Party;

 

(7)                                  if such Indebtedness is secured:

 

18



 

(a)                                  the Liens securing such Refinancing Indebtedness have a Lien priority equal to or junior to the Refinanced Debt;

 

(b)                                  the security agreements relating to such Indebtedness are substantially similar to or the same as the Security Documents (as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings);

 

(c)                                   if such Indebtedness is secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans, a Debt Representative acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness has become party to or is otherwise subject to the provisions of a First Lien Intercreditor Agreement and, if applicable, the Intercreditor Agreement;

 

(d)                                  if such Indebtedness is secured on a junior basis to the Term Loans, a Debt Representative, acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness, has become party to or is otherwise subject to the provisions of a Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement and, if applicable, the Intercreditor Agreement;

 

(8)                                  the terms and conditions of such Indebtedness are (x) on customary market terms at the incurrence thereof or (y) substantially identical to, or, taken as a whole, no more favorable to the lenders or holders providing such Indebtedness than, those applicable to such Refinanced Debt as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings; provided that Holdings will promptly deliver to the Administrative Agent final copies of the definitive credit documentation relating to such Indebtedness (unless Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary is bound by a confidentiality obligation with respect thereto, in which case Holdings will deliver a reasonably detailed description of the material terms and conditions of such Indebtedness in lieu thereof); provided that this clause (8) will not apply to:

 

(a)                                  terms addressed in the preceding clauses (1) through (7);

 

(b)                                  (i) interest rate, fees, funding discounts and other pricing terms; (ii) redemption, prepayment or other premiums; (iii) optional prepayment terms; and (iv) redemption terms;

 

(c)                                   subordination terms; and

 

(d)                                  covenants or other provisions applicable only to periods after the Latest Maturity Date at the time of incurrence of such Indebtedness;

 

provided that a certificate of a Responsible Officer delivered to the Administrative Agent at least five Business Days prior to the incurrence of such Indebtedness (or such short period as may be agreed by the Administrative Agent), together with a reasonably detailed description of the material terms and conditions of such resulting Indebtedness or drafts of the documentation relating thereto, stating that Holdings has determined in good faith that such terms and conditions satisfy the foregoing requirement, shall be conclusive evidence that such terms and conditions satisfy the foregoing requirement unless the Administrative Agent notifies Holdings within such five Business Day (or shorter) period

 

19



 

that it disagrees with such determination (including a reasonable description of the basis upon which it disagrees).

 

Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness will include any Registered Equivalent Notes issued in exchange therefor.

 

Cure Amount ” means the amount of cash contributions to the capital of the Borrowers made pursuant to Section 8.02 of the ABL Credit Agreement.

 

Current Assets ” means, as of any date, all assets (other than Cash Equivalents or other cash equivalents) that would, in accordance with GAAP, be classified on a consolidated balance sheet of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries as “current assets” (other than amounts related to current or deferred Taxes based on income or profits), determined based upon the most recent quarter-end financial statements available internally as of the date of determination, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

Current Liabilities ” means, as of any date, all liabilities that would, in accordance with GAAP, be classified on a consolidated balance sheet of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries as “current liabilities,” other than:

 

(1)                                  the current portion of any Indebtedness;

 

(2)                                  accruals of Consolidated Interest Expense (excluding Consolidated Interest Expense that is due and unpaid);

 

(3)                                  accruals for current or deferred Taxes based on income or profits;

 

(4)                                  accruals, if any, of transaction costs resulting from the Transactions; and

 

(5)                                  accruals of any costs or expenses related to (a) severance or termination of employees prior to the Closing Date or (b) bonuses, pension and other post-retirement benefit obligations;

 

in each case, determined based upon the most recent quarter-end financial statements available internally as of the date of determination, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

Debt Fund Affiliate ” shall mean any Affiliate of Holdings (other than Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Borrowers) that is primarily engaged in, or advises funds or other investment vehicles that are engaged in, making, purchasing, holding or otherwise investing in commercial loans, bonds and similar extensions of credit or securities in the ordinary course and that exercises investment discretion independent from Holdings.

 

Debt Representative ” means, with respect to any Indebtedness that is secured on a pari passu basis with, or on a junior basis to, the Term Loans, the trustee, administrative agent, collateral agent, security agent or similar agent under the indenture or agreement pursuant to which such Indebtedness is issued, incurred or otherwise obtained, as the case may be, and each of their successors in such capacities.

 

20


 

Debtor Relief Laws ” means the Title 11 of the United States Code, the Insolvency Act 1986 (UK), the EU Insolvency Regulation, the provisions of the Livre VI and other relevant provisions related thereto of the French Code de commerce, the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (Canada) and the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (Canada) and all other liquidation, conservatorship, bankruptcy, assignment for the benefit of creditors, moratorium, rearrangement, administration, receivership, insolvency, reorganization, or similar debtor relief laws of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Luxembourg, France, Germany, Spain, Finland or other applicable jurisdictions from time to time in effect.

 

Default ” means any event or condition which, but for the giving of notice, lapse of time or both, would constitute an Event of Default.

 

Defaulting Lender ” means (1) any Lender whose acts or failure to act, whether directly or indirectly, constitutes a Lender Default and (2) any Lender that has become the subject of a Bail-in Action.

 

Designated Non-Cash Consideration ” means the fair market value of non-cash consideration received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with an Asset Sale that is designated as Designated Non-Cash Consideration pursuant to a certificate of a Responsible Officer of Holdings setting forth the basis of such valuation, less the amount of cash or Cash Equivalents received in connection with a subsequent sale of such Designated Non-Cash Consideration.

 

Disinterested Director ” means, with respect to any Person and transaction, a member of the Board of Directors of such Person who does not have any material direct or indirect financial interest in or with respect to such transaction.

 

Disqualified Institution ” means (a) competitors of Holdings, Huntsman and their respective subsidiaries, in each case identified in writing by the Borrowers to the Administrative Agent from time to time (at any time when JPMCB is serving as Administrative Agent, by e-mail to JPMDQ_Contact@jpmorgan.com), (b) financial institutions previously designated in writing by Holdings to the Administrative Agent on or prior to June 20, 2017 and (c) any affiliates of any such competitors or institutions reasonably identifiable as affiliates solely on the basis of the similarity of their names (other than bona fide fixed income investors or debt funds) or identified by the Borrowers in writing to the Administrative Agent from time to time (at any time when JPMCB is serving as Administrative Agent, by e-mail to JPMDQ_Contact@jpmorgan.com) (it being understood that any update pursuant to clause (a) or clause (c) above shall not become effective until the business day following the Administrative Agent’s receipt of such notice, and, in any event, shall not apply retroactively or to any entity that (i) has previously acquired commitments, loans or participation otherwise permitted under the Term Facility, (ii) is party to a pending trade with respect to commitments, loans or participation under the Term Facility as of the date of such notice or (iii) that becomes a competitor of Huntsman or Holdings or their respective subsidiaries before becoming a Disqualified Institution).

 

Disqualified Stock ” means, with respect to any Person, any Equity Interests of such Person that, by their terms (or by the terms of any security or other Equity Interests into

 

21



 

which they are convertible or for which they are redeemable or exchangeable at the option of the holder thereof), or upon the happening of any event or condition:

 

(1)                                  mature or are mandatorily redeemable (other than solely for Qualified Equity Interests), pursuant to a sinking fund obligation or otherwise (except as a result of a change of control or asset sale so long as any rights of the holders thereof upon the occurrence of a change of control or asset sale are subject to the prior repayment in full of the Term Loans and all other Obligations that are accrued and payable and the termination of the Commitments);

 

(2)                                  are redeemable at the option of the holder thereof (other than solely for Qualified Equity Interests), in whole or in part;

 

(3)                                  provide for the scheduled payments of dividends in cash; or

 

(4)                                  either mandatorily or at the option of the holders thereof, are or become convertible into or exchangeable for Indebtedness or any other Equity Interests that would constitute Disqualified Stock, in each case, prior to the date that is 91 days after the earlier of:

 

(a)                                  the Latest Maturity Date; and

 

(b)                                  the date on which the Term Loans and all other Obligations (other than Obligations in respect of (i) Specified Hedge Agreements that are not then due and payable and (ii) contingent indemnification and reimbursement obligations that are not yet due and payable and for which no claim has been asserted) are repaid in full and the Commitments are terminated;

 

provided that only the portion of the Equity Interests that so mature or are mandatorily redeemable, are so convertible or exchangeable or are so redeemable at the option of the holder thereof prior to such date will be deemed to be Disqualified Stock; provided , further , that if such Equity Interests are issued to any employee or to any plan for the benefit of employees of Holdings or its Subsidiaries or by any such plan to such employees, such Equity Interests will not constitute Disqualified Stock solely because they may be required to be repurchased by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries in order to satisfy applicable statutory or regulatory obligations or as a result of such employee’s termination, death or disability; and provided , further , that any class of Equity Interests of such Person that by its terms authorizes such Person to satisfy its obligations thereunder by delivery of Equity Interests that is not Disqualified Stock will not be deemed to be Disqualified Stock.

 

Distressed Person ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the definition of “Lender-Related Distress Event.”

 

Documentation Agents ” means Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Barclays Bank PLC, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, PNC Bank, National Association, RBC Capital Markets, SunTrust Bank and Commerzbank AG, each in its capacity as the Documentation Agent.

 

22



 

Dollars ” or “ $ ” means lawful money of the United States of America.

 

Domestic Subsidiary ” means any Subsidiary of Holdings that is organized under the laws of the United States or any political subdivision thereof, and “ Domestic Subsidiaries ” means any two or more of them.  Unless otherwise indicated in this Agreement, all references to Domestic Subsidiaries will mean Domestic Subsidiaries of Holdings.

 

Dutch Auction ” means an auction of Term Loans conducted:

 

(1)                                  pursuant to Section 10.04(10) to allow an Affiliated Lender to acquire Term Loans at a discount to par value and on a pro rata basis; or

 

(2)                                  pursuant to Section 10.04(14) to allow a Purchasing Borrower Party to prepay Term Loans at a discount to par value and on a pro rata basis,

 

in each case, in accordance with the applicable Dutch Auction Procedures.

 

Dutch Auction Procedures ” means, with respect to a purchase of Term Loans in a Dutch Auction, Dutch auction procedures as reasonably agreed upon by the applicable Affiliated Lender or Purchasing Borrower Party, as the case may be, and the Administrative Agent.

 

EEA Financial Institution ” means (a) any institution established in any EEA Member Country which is subject to the supervision of an EEA Resolution Authority, (b) any entity established in an EEA Member Country which is a parent of an institution described in clause (a) of this definition, or (c) any institution established in an EEA Member Country which is a subsidiary of an institution described in clauses (a) or (b) of this definition and is subject to consolidated supervision with its parent.

 

EEA Member Country ” means any of the member states of the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway.

 

EEA Resolution Authority ” means any public administrative authority or any person entrusted with public administrative authority of any EEA Member Country (including any delegee) having responsibility for the resolution of any EEA Financial Institution.

 

Engagement Letter ” means that certain Engagement Letter, dated as of June 20, 2017, by and among the Borrowers, JPMCB, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Barclays Bank PLC, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. and Goldman Sachs Bank USA.

 

Enterprise Transformative Event ” means any merger, acquisition or Investment, in any such case by the Borrowers, any Restricted Subsidiary, Holdings or any of the direct or indirect parent companies of Holdings that is either (a) not permitted by the terms of any Loan Document immediately prior to the consummation of such transaction or (b) if permitted by the terms of the Loan Documents (prior to giving effect to any amendments) immediately prior to the consummation of such transaction, would not provide Holdings, the Borrowers and their Restricted Subsidiaries with adequate flexibility under the Loan Documents for the continuation

 

23



 

and/or expansion of their combined operations following such consummation, as reasonably determined by Holdings acting in good faith.

 

Environment ” means the indoor and outdoor environment, including ambient and indoor air, surface water and groundwater (including potable water, navigable water and wetlands), the land surface or subsurface strata, and natural resources such as flora and fauna.

 

Environmental Laws ” means all applicable laws (including common law), statutes, rules, regulations, codes, ordinances, orders, binding agreements and final, binding decrees or judgments, in each case, promulgated or entered into by or with any Governmental Authority, relating in any way to the Environment, preservation or reclamation of natural resources, the generation, management, Release or threatened Release of, or exposure to, any harmful or deleterious substance or to occupational health and safety matters (to the extent relating to the Environment or exposure to harmful or deleterious substances).

 

Equity Interests ” means Capital Stock and all warrants, options or other rights to acquire Capital Stock (but excluding any debt security that is convertible into, or exchangeable for, Capital Stock).

 

ERISA ” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as the same may be amended from time to time, and any final regulations promulgated and the rulings issued thereunder.

 

ERISA Affiliate ” means any trade or business (whether or not incorporated) that, together with Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries, is treated as a single employer under Section 414(b) or (c) of the Code or, solely for purposes of Section 302 of ERISA and Section 412 of the Code, is treated as a single employer under Section 414 of the Code.

 

ERISA Event ” means:

 

(1)                                  a Reportable Event, or the requirements of Section 4043(b) of ERISA apply, with respect to a Plan;

 

(2)                                  a withdrawal by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of Holdings or the Borrowers, any ERISA Affiliate from a Plan subject to Section 4063 of ERISA during a plan year in which it was a substantial employer (as defined in Section 4001(a)(2) of ERISA) or a cessation of operations by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of Holdings or the Borrowers, any ERISA Affiliate that is treated as a termination under Section 4062(e) of ERISA;

 

(3)                                  a complete or partial withdrawal by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of Holdings or the Borrowers, any ERISA Affiliate from a Multiemployer Plan, receipt of written notification by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of Holdings the Borrowers, any ERISA Affiliate concerning the imposition of Withdrawal Liability or written notification that a Multiemployer Plan is, or is expected to be, insolvent within the meaning of Title IV of ERISA or endangered or in critical status within the meaning of Section 305 of ERISA;

 

24



 

(4)                                  the provision by a Plan administrator or the PBGC of notice of intent to terminate a Plan, to appoint a trustee to administer a Plan, the treatment of a Plan or Multiemployer Plan amendment as a termination under Sections 4041 or 4041A of ERISA or the commencement of proceedings by the PBGC to terminate a Plan or Multiemployer Plan;

 

(5)                                  the incurrence by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or, to the knowledge of Holdings or the Borrowers, any ERISA Affiliate of any liability under Title IV of ERISA with respect to the termination of any Plan or Multiemployer Plan, other than for the payment of plan contributions or PBGC premiums due but not delinquent under Section 4007 of ERISA;

 

(6)                                  the application for a minimum funding waiver under Section 302(c) of ERISA with respect to a Plan;

 

(7)                                  the imposition of a lien under Section 303(k) of ERISA with respect to any Plan; and

 

(8)                                  a determination that any Plan is in “at risk” status (within the meaning of Section 303 of ERISA).

 

EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule ” means the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule published by the Loan Market Association (or any successor person), as in effect from time to time.

 

EU Insolvency Regulation ” means The Council of the European Union Regulation No. 2015/848 on Insolvency Proceedings.

 

Eurocurrency Borrowing ” means a Borrowing comprised of Eurocurrency Loans.

 

Eurocurrency Loan ” means any Term Loan bearing interest at a rate determined by reference to the Adjusted LIBO Rate.

 

Event of Default ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 8.01.

 

Excess Cash Flow ” means, for any Excess Cash Flow Period, the Consolidated Net Income of Holdings for such period, minus , without duplication:

 

(1)                                  repayments, prepayments and other cash payments made with respect to the principal of any Indebtedness or the principal component of any Capital Lease Obligations of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary during such period (excluding voluntary and mandatory prepayments of Term Loans, voluntary prepayments of Indebtedness described in Section 2.08(2)(b) and prepayments of other revolving Indebtedness (except to the extent accompanied by a corresponding reduction in commitments), but including all premium, make-whole or penalty payments paid in cash (to the extent such payments were not already deducted in calculating Consolidated Net Income and are not otherwise prohibited under this Agreement)); provided that a mandatory prepayment of Indebtedness will only be deducted pursuant to this clause (1) to the extent not already deducted in the computation of Net Cash Proceeds of Asset Sales; minus

 

25



 

(2)                                  (a) cash payments made by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary during such period in respect of Capital Expenditures, Permitted Acquisitions, Investments and Restricted Payments (excluding Restricted Payments made pursuant to Section 6.06(15), and Investments made pursuant to Sections 6.04(3), (5), (7) and (14)(to the extent made in one or more Restricted Subsidiaries)) and (b) cash payments that Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary is required to make in respect of Capital Expenditures, Permitted Acquisitions and Investments within 365 days after the end of such period pursuant to binding obligations entered into prior to or during such period; provided that amounts described in this clause (b) will not reduce Excess Cash Flow in subsequent periods and, to the extent not so paid, will increase Excess Cash Flow in the subsequent period; minus

 

(3)                                  cash payments made by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary during such period in respect of (a) long-term liabilities other than Indebtedness or (b) items for which an accrual or reserve was established in a prior period; minus

 

(4)                                  (a) cash payments made by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary during such period in respect of Taxes (including distributions to any Parent Entity in respect of Taxes), to the extent such payments exceed the amount of tax expense deducted in calculating such Consolidated Net Income, and (b) cash payments that Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary will be required to make in respect of Taxes (including distributions to any Parent Entity in respect of Taxes) within 180 days after the end of such period; provided that amounts described in this clause (b) will not reduce Excess Cash Flow in subsequent periods; minus

 

(5)                                  all cash payments and other cash expenditures made by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary during such period (a) with respect to items that were excluded in the calculation of such Consolidated Net Income pursuant to clauses (1) through (19) of the definition of Consolidated Net Income or (b) that were not expensed during such period in accordance with GAAP; minus

 

(6)                                  all non-cash credits included in calculating such Consolidated Net Income (including insured or indemnified losses referred to in clauses (16) and (17) of Consolidated Net Income to the extent not reimbursed in cash during such period); minus

 

(7)                                  an amount equal to the sum of (a) the increase in the Working Capital of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries during such period, if any, plus (b) the increase in long-term accounts receivable of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries, if any (other than any such increases contemplated by clauses (a) and (b) of this clause (7) that are directly attributable to acquisitions of a Person or business unit by Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries during such period);  minus

 

(8)                                  any extraordinary or nonrecurring cash charges, expenses or losses during such period, plus

 

(9)                                  all non-cash charges, losses and expenses of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary that were deducted in calculating such Consolidated Net Income; plus

 

26



 

(10)                           all cash payments received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary during such period pursuant to Hedge Agreements that were not treated as revenue or net income under GAAP; plus

 

(11)                           an amount equal to the sum of (a) the decrease in Working Capital of Holdings during such period, if any, plus (b) the decrease in long-term accounts receivable of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries, if any; plus

 

(12)                           any extraordinary or nonrecurring gain realized in cash during such period; plus

 

(13)                           all amounts referred to in clauses (1), (2) and (3) above to the extent funded with the proceeds of the issuance or the incurrence of Indebtedness (other than proceeds of revolving loans), the sale or issuance of Equity Interests or any loss, damage, destruction or condemnation of, or any sale, transfer or other disposition to any Person of, any assets.

 

Excess Cash Flow Period ” means each fiscal year of Holdings.

 

Exchange Act ” means the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

Excluded Contributions ” means, as of any date, the aggregate amount of the net cash proceeds and Cash Equivalents, together with the aggregate fair market value (determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings) of other assets that are used or useful in a business permitted under Section 6.08, received by Holdings after the Closing Date from:

 

(1)                                  contributions to its common equity capital; or

 

(2)                                  the sale of Capital Stock of Holdings;

 

in each case, designated as Excluded Contributions pursuant to a certificate of a Responsible Officer of Holdings on the date such contribution is made or such Capital Stock is sold, less the aggregate amount of Investments made pursuant to Section 6.04(28) in each case prior to such date; provided that the proceeds of Disqualified Stock, Cure Amounts and any net cash proceeds that are used prior to such date (A) to make Restricted Payments under Section 6.06(1) or Section 6.06(2)(b), (B) to make an Investment under Section 6.04(3), a Restricted Payment under Section 6.06(15) or a payment in respect of Junior Financing under Section 6.09(2)(a), in each case utilizing the Available Amount or (C) for Contribution Indebtedness, will not be treated as Excluded Contributions.

 

Excluded Indebtedness ” means all Indebtedness (other than Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness) permitted under Section 6.01.

 

Excluded Subsidiary ” means any:

 

(1)                                  Immaterial Subsidiary;

 

(2)                                  Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings;

 

(3)                                  Unrestricted Subsidiary;

 

27



 

(4)                                  CFC;

 

(5)                                  FSHCO;

 

(6)                                  Subsidiary of a CFC or FSHCO;

 

(7)                                  Subsidiary that is not either (i) a Domestic Subsidiary or (ii) organized under the laws of a Specified Foreign Jurisdiction;

 

(8)                                  Subsidiary if acting as a Guarantor, or its Guarantee, would, and only so long as it would, (a) be prohibited by law or regulation or by any contractual obligation existing on the (but not incurred in anticipation of) Closing Date or on the date such subsidiary is acquired or organized (as long as, in the case of an acquisition of a subsidiary, such prohibition did not arise as part of such acquisition) or (b) require a governmental or regulatory consent, approval, license or authorization (unless such consent, approval, license or authorization has been received);

 

(9)                                  Subsidiary that is a Captive Insurance Company, not-for-profit Subsidiary or Subsidiary which is a special purpose entity for securitization transaction (including any Receivables Subsidiary) or like special purposes; and

 

(10)                           any Subsidiary that would be excluded by the Guaranty and Security Principles;

 

in each case, unless Holdings determines in its sole discretion, upon notice to the Administrative Agent, that any of the foregoing Persons (other than a Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings (other than Brockhues GmbH & Co. KG)) should not be an Excluded Subsidiary; provided that in the case of any Restricted Subsidiary that is a Foreign Subsidiary not organized in a Specified Foreign Jurisdiction, the jurisdiction of such Foreign Subsidiary is acceptable to the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion unless the Guarantee to be provided by such Foreign Subsidiary is consistent with the credit support provided by the other Guarantors (or as otherwise may be acceptable to the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion). Notwithstanding the foregoing, a Restricted Subsidiary may be an Excluded Subsidiary in circumstances where Holdings and the Administrative Agent reasonably agree that any of the cost, difficulty, burden or consequences of such Restricted Subsidiary providing a Guarantee of the Obligations is excessive in relation to the value afforded thereby.

 

Excluded Swap Obligation ” means, with respect to any Guarantor, any Swap Obligation if, and to the extent that, all or a portion of the guarantee of such Guarantor of, or the grant by such Guarantor of a security interest to secure, such Swap Obligation (or any Guarantee thereof) is or becomes illegal under the Commodity Exchange Act or any rule, regulation or order of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (or the application or official interpretation of any thereof) by virtue of such Guarantor’s failure for any reason to constitute an “eligible contract participant” as defined in the Commodity Exchange Act and the regulations thereunder at the time the guarantee of such Guarantor or the grant of such security interest becomes effective with respect to such Swap Obligation.  If a Swap Obligation arises under a master agreement governing more than one swap, such exclusion shall apply only to the portion

 

28



 

of such Swap Obligation that is attributable to swaps for which such Guarantee or security interest is or becomes illegal.

 

Excluded Taxes ” means, with respect to any Recipient of any payment to be made by or on account of any obligation of any Loan Party hereunder, or, with respect to clause (4) below, on account of any obligation of a French Guarantor:

 

(1)                                  Taxes imposed on or measured by its net income (however denominated) or franchise Taxes imposed in lieu of net income Taxes, and branch profits Taxes, in each case, (a) imposed as a result of such Recipient being organized under the laws of, or having its principal office or, in the case of any Lender, its applicable Lending Office located in, the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (or any political subdivision thereof) or (b) that are Other Connection Taxes;

 

(2)                                  any U.S. federal withholding Tax imposed on amounts payable hereunder to or for the account of a Recipient under any law applicable at the time such Recipient becomes a party to this Agreement (other than pursuant to an assignment request by the Borrower under Section 2.16), (or in the case of a Lender, under any law applicable at the time such Lender changes its Lending Office), except to the extent that the Recipient’s assignor (if any), at the time of assignment (or such Lender immediately before it changed its Lending Office), was entitled to receive additional amounts from the applicable Loan Party with respect to such withholding Tax pursuant to Section 2.14(1) or Section 2.14(3);

 

(3)                                  Taxes that are attributable to such Recipient’s failure to comply with Section 2.14(5) or Section 2.14(6);

 

(4)                                  any Taxes imposed by France on amounts payable to a Lender if such Taxes are imposed solely because this payment is made to (i) an account opened in the name of or for the benefit of that Lender in a financial institution situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction or (ii) a Lender acting through a Lending Office (or the office of the Administrative Agent) situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction;

 

(5)                                  any Taxes imposed under FATCA; and

 

(6)                                  any Taxes under the laws of Germany arising solely due to the fact that the Obligations are secured (directly or indirectly) by real estate located in Germany ( inländische Grundstücke ) or any domestic rights treated as real property under German Civil Law ( inländische Rechte die den Vorschriften des Bürgerlichen Rechts über Grundstücke unterliegen ) within the meaning of section 49 para. 1 no. 5 lit. c) aa) Income Tax Act ( Einkommensteuergesetz — EStG ).

 

Existing Huntsman Indebtedness ” means (i) that certain Credit Agreement, dated as of August 16, 2005 (as amended, restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time prior to the Closing Date) by and among Huntsman, the guarantors party thereto, the lenders party thereto, and JPMCB, as administrative agent and collateral agent, (ii) the notes due 2020 issued pursuant to that certain Indenture, dated as of November 19, 2012 (as amended,

 

29



 

restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time prior to the Closing Date), among Huntsman, the guarantors party thereto and Wells Fargo Bank, National Association, as trustee, and any supplemental or additional indenture entered into with respect thereto, (iii) the notes due 2021 issued pursuant that that certain Indenture, dated as of December 23, 2013 (as amended, restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time prior to the Closing Date), among Huntsman, the guarantors party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, and any supplemental or additional indenture entered into with respect thereto, (iv) the notes due 2022 issued pursuant to that certain Indenture, dated as of November 13, 2014 (as amended, restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time prior to the Closing Date), among Huntsman, the guarantors party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, and any supplemental or additional indenture entered into with respect thereto and (v) those certain senior notes due 2025 issued pursuant to the terms of that certain Indenture, dated as of March 31, 2015 (as amended, restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time prior to the Closing Date), among Huntsman, the guarantors party thereto and Wilmington Trust, National Association, as trustee, and any supplemental or additional indenture entered into with respect thereto.

 

Extended Term Loan Installment Date ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.06(2).

 

Extended Term Loans ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.20(1).

 

Extending Term Lender ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.20(1).

 

Extension ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.20(1).

 

Extension Amendment ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.20(2).

 

Extension Offer ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.20(1).

 

FATCA ” means Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code, as of the date of this Agreement (or any amended or successor version that is substantively comparable and not materially more onerous to comply with), any current or future regulations or official interpretations thereof, any agreements entered into pursuant to Section 1471(b)(1) of the Code, any intergovernmental agreement with respect to the foregoing, and any fiscal or regulatory legislation, rules or practices adopted pursuant to any intergovernmental agreement entered into in connection with the implementation of such Sections of the Code.

 

FCPA ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 3.19(3).

 

Federal Funds Rate ” means, for any day, the rate calculated by the NYFRB based on such day’s federal funds transactions by depositary institutions, as determined in such manner as the NYFRB shall set forth on its public website from time to time, and published on the next succeeding Business Day by the NYFRB as the federal funds rate, provided that if the

 

30


 

Federal Funds Rate shall be less than zero, such rate shall be deemed to zero for the purposes of this Agreement.

 

Fee Letter ” means the Fee Letter, dated June 20, 2017 ( as amended, restated, modified or otherwise supplemented from time to time) by and among the Borrowers, JPMCB, Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Barclays Bank PLC, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. and Goldman Sachs Bank USA.

 

Fees ” means the Administrative Agent Fees and all other fees set forth in the Fee Letter or as otherwise agreed payable to a Lender, the Administrative Agent, or any Arranger, in each case, with respect to Term Loans.

 

Finance Parties ” means the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Arrangers, the Documentation Agent and the Lenders.

 

Financial Covenant Default ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 8.01(6).

 

Financial Officer ” means, with respect to any Person, the chief financial officer, president, principal accounting officer, director of financial services, treasurer, assistant treasurer or controller of such Person or any other senior officer or director with equivalent responsibilities.

 

Financial Support Direction ” shall mean a financial support direction issued by the Pensions Regulator under section 43 of the Pensions Act 2004 (UK).

 

First Lien Intercreditor Agreement ” means a “pari passu” intercreditor agreement reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.  Upon the request of the Borrower, the Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent will execute and deliver a First Lien Intercreditor Agreement with the Loan Parties and one or more Debt Representatives for Indebtedness permitted hereunder that is permitted to be secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans.

 

First Lien Net Leverage Ratio ” means, as of any date, the ratio of Consolidated First Lien Net Debt as of such date to Consolidated EBITDA for the most recent four fiscal quarter period for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered, calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

Fixed Amounts ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 1.07(b).

 

Flood Certificate ” means a completed “Life-of-Loan”, “Standard Flood Hazard Determination Form” of the Federal Emergency Management Agency or any successor Governmental Authority performing a similar function (together with a notice about special flood hazard area status and flood disaster assistance duly executed by the applicable property owner relating thereto).

 

Flood Program ” means the National Flood Insurance Program created by the U.S. Congress pursuant to the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, the Flood Disaster

 

31



 

Protection Act of 1973, the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994, the Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2004 and the Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012, in each case as amended from time to time, and any successor statutes, together with all statutory and regulatory provisions consolidating, amending, replacing, supplementing, implementing or interpreting any of the foregoing, as amended and modified from time to time.

 

Flood Zone ” means areas having special flood hazards as described in the Flood Program.

 

Foreign Lender ” means any Lender that is organized under the laws of a jurisdiction other than the United States of America.  For purposes of this definition, the United States of America, each state thereof and the District of Columbia will be deemed to constitute a single jurisdiction.

 

Foreign Subsidiary ” means any Subsidiary that is not a Domestic Subsidiary.

 

French Guarantor ” means a Guarantor incorporated in France.

 

French Loan Party ” means any Loan Party incorporated in France.

 

French Security Document ” means the documents referred to as such in Schedule 1.01(3) and any other Security Document governed by French law to be entered into by a Loan Party pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement.

 

FSHCO ” means any Subsidiary of Holdings, substantially all of the assets of which consist of Equity Interests or Indebtedness of one or more CFCs.

 

GAAP ” means generally accepted accounting principles in the United States of America as in effect from time to time, including those set forth in the opinions and pronouncements of the Accounting Principles Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants and statements and pronouncements of the Financial Accounting Standards Board or in such other statements by such other entity as approved by a significant segment of the accounting profession (but excluding the policies, rules and regulations of the SEC applicable only to public companies).

 

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary above or in the definition of Capital Lease Obligations or Capital Expenditures, in the event of a change under GAAP (or the application thereof) requiring any leases to be capitalized that are not required to be capitalized as of the Closing Date, only those leases that would result or would have resulted in Capital Lease Obligations or Capital Expenditures on the Closing Date (assuming for purposes hereof that they were in existence on the Closing Date) will be considered capital leases and all calculations under this Agreement will be made in accordance therewith.

 

German Loan Party” means any Loan Party that qualifies as a resident party domiciled in Germany ( Inländer ) within the meaning of Section 2 paragraph 15 of the German Foreign Trade Act ( Außenwirtschaftsgesetz ) (including its directors, managers, officers, agents and employees).

 

32



 

Governmental Authority ” means any federal, state, provincial, municipal, local, national, transnational, foreign or other governmental department, commission, board, tribunal, bureau, ministry, court, agency, authority, instrumentality or regulatory, legislative, judicial or arbitral body, or other law, rule or regulation-making entity, or any entity or officer exercising executive, legislative, judicial, regulatory or administrative functions of or pertaining to any government or any court.

 

Guarantee ” of or by any Person (the “guarantor”) means:

 

(1)                                  any obligation, contingent or otherwise, of the guarantor guaranteeing or having the economic effect of guaranteeing any Indebtedness or other obligation payable or performable by another Person (the “primary obligor”) in any manner, whether directly or indirectly, and including any obligation of the guarantor, direct or indirect:

 

(a)                                  to purchase or pay (or advance or supply funds for the purchase or payment of) such Indebtedness or other obligation (whether arising by virtue of partnership arrangements, by agreement to keep well, to purchase assets, goods, securities or services, to take or pay or otherwise) or to purchase (or to advance or supply funds for the purchase of) any security for the payment of such Indebtedness or other obligations;

 

(b)                                  to purchase or lease property, securities or services for the purpose of assuring the owner of such Indebtedness or other obligation of the payment thereof;

 

(c)                                   to maintain working capital, equity capital or any other financial statement condition or liquidity of the primary obligor so as to enable the primary obligor to pay such Indebtedness or other obligation;

 

(d)                                  entered into for the purpose of assuring in any other manner the holders of such Indebtedness or other obligation of the payment thereof or to protect such holders against loss in respect thereof (in whole or in part); or

 

(e)                                   as an account party in respect of any letter of credit, bank guarantee or other letter of credit guaranty issued to support such Indebtedness or other obligation; or

 

(2)                                  any Lien on any assets of the guarantor securing any Indebtedness (or any existing right, contingent or otherwise, of the holder of Indebtedness to be secured by such a Lien) of any other Person, whether or not such Indebtedness or other obligation is assumed by the guarantor;

 

provided , that the term “Guarantee” will not include endorsements of instruments for deposit or collection in the ordinary course of business or customary and reasonable indemnity obligations in effect on the Closing Date or entered into in connection with any acquisition or disposition of assets permitted by this Agreement (other than such obligations with respect to Indebtedness).

 

The amount of any Guarantee will be deemed to be an amount equal to the stated or determinable amount of the Indebtedness in respect of which such Guarantee is made or, if not

 

33



 

stated or determinable, the maximum reasonably anticipated liability in respect thereof (assuming such Person is required to perform thereunder) as determined by such Person in good faith, subject to any local limitations as set forth in this Agreement or in the Guaranty and Security Principles.

 

Guarantor ” means (1) Holdings; (2) the Lux Borrower (solely with respect to Obligations of the US Borrower); (3) the US Borrower (solely with respect to Obligations of the Lux Borrower); (4) each Subsidiary Loan Party and (5) each Parent Entity or Restricted Subsidiary (other than any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Wholly Owned Subsidiary) that Holdings may elect in its sole discretion, from time to time, upon written notice to the Administrative Agent, to cause to Guarantee the Obligations; provide d that, in the case of this clause (5), the Guarantee and the security interest provided by such Person is consistent with the credit support provided by the other Guarantors (or as otherwise may be acceptable to the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion), in each case subject to the Guaranty and Security Principles.

 

Guaranty ” means the guaranty made by Holdings and the other Guarantors in favor of the Administrative Agent on behalf of the Secured Parties, dated as of the Closing Date, as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

Guaranty and Security Principles ” means the Guaranty and Security Principles set forth on Schedule 1.01(2) .

 

Hazardous Materials ” means all pollutants, contaminants, wastes, chemicals, materials, substances and constituents, including explosive or radioactive substances or petroleum or petroleum byproducts or distillates, friable asbestos or friable asbestos-containing materials, polychlorinated biphenyls or radon gas, in each case, that are regulated or would reasonably be expected to give rise to liability under any Environmental Law.

 

Hedge Agreement ” means any agreement with respect to any swap, forward, future or derivative transaction or option or similar agreement involving, or settled by reference to, one or more rates, currencies, commodities, equity or debt instruments or securities, or economic, financial or pricing indices or measures of economic, financial or pricing risk or value or any similar transaction or any combination of these transactions, in each case, not entered into for speculative purposes; provided that no phantom stock or similar plan providing for payments only on account of services provided by current or former directors, officers, employees or consultants of Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries will be a Hedge Agreement.

 

Holdings ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.

 

Huntsman ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.

 

Huntsman-Clariant Merger ” means the merger of Huntsman Corporation with a wholly-owned subsidiary of Clariant.

 

34



 

Huntsman Release ” means the termination of all guarantees, commitments and other obligations of Holdings and its Subsidiaries under the Existing Huntsman Indebtedness and the termination and release of all Liens related thereto.

 

Immaterial Subsidiary ” means, as of any date, any Subsidiary that (i) did not, as of the last day of the most recent fiscal quarter of Holdings for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered (or were required to be delivered), have assets with a value in excess of 2.5% of the Consolidated Total Assets or revenues representing in excess of 2.5% of total revenues of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries for the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered (or were required to be delivered), calculated on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP; and (ii) taken together with all Immaterial Subsidiaries as of the last day of the most recent fiscal quarter of Holdings for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered (or were required to be delivered), did not have assets with a value in excess of 5.0% of Consolidated Total Assets or revenues representing in excess of 5.0% of total revenues of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis for such four-quarter period.

 

Impacted Interest Period ” has the meaning assigned to it in the definition of “LIBO Rate.”

 

Incremental Equivalent Term Debt ” means Indebtedness of a Borrower in the form of term loans or notes, which Indebtedness is either unsecured or secured on a pari passu basis with or junior basis to the Term Loans; provided that:

 

(1)                                  the aggregate outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness on any date that such Indebtedness is incurred pursuant to Section 6.01(1) shall be subject to the limitations set forth in Section 2.18(3);

 

(2)                                  the final maturity date of such Incremental Equivalent Term Debt may not be earlier than the Latest Maturity Date of the Term Loans (and in the case of any junior secured or unsecured Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, the final maturity date may not be earlier than the date that is 91 days after the Latest Maturity Date of the Term Loans);

 

(3)                                  the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of such Incremental Equivalent Term Debt may be no shorter than the longest remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Term Loans;

 

(4)                                  except for any of the following that are applicable only to periods following the Latest Maturity Date of the Term Loans, the covenants, events of default, subsidiary guarantees and other terms for such Indebtedness or commitments (excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, interest rates (including through fixed interest rates), interest rate margins, rate floors, fees, funding discounts, original issue discounts and redemption or prepayment terms and premiums), when taken as a whole, are determined by Holdings in good faith (i) to be on customary market terms or (ii) not to be materially more restrictive on Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries than the terms of this Agreement, when taken as a whole;

 

35



 

(5)                                  if such Indebtedness is secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans, such Indebtedness (a) solely consists of notes and (b) a Debt Representative acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness has become party to or is otherwise subject to the provisions of a First Lien Intercreditor Agreement; and

 

(6)                                  if such Indebtedness is secured on a junior basis to the Term Loans, a Debt Representative acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness has become party to or is otherwise subject to the provisions of a Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement.

 

Incremental Equivalent Term Debt will include any Registered Equivalent Notes issued in exchange therefor.

 

Incremental Facility ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.18(1).

 

Incremental Facility Amendment ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.18(5).

 

Incremental Lenders ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.18(5).

 

Incremental Term Loan Installment Date ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.06(2).

 

Incremental Term Loans ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.18(1).

 

Incremental Yield ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.18(8)(b).

 

Indebtedness ” means, with respect to any Person, without duplication:

 

(1)                                  all obligations of such Person for borrowed money;

 

(2)                                  all obligations of such Person evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or similar instruments;

 

(3)                                  all obligations of such Person under conditional sale or title retention agreements relating to property or assets purchased by such Person;

 

(4)                                  all obligations of such Person issued or assumed as the deferred purchase price of property or services, to the extent the same would be required to be shown as a long-term liability on a balance sheet prepared in accordance with GAAP;

 

(5)                                  all Capital Lease Obligations of such Person;

 

(6)                                  all net payments that such Person would have to make in the event of an early termination, on the date Indebtedness of such Person is being determined, in respect of outstanding Hedge Agreements;

 

36



 

(7)                                  the principal component of all obligations, contingent or otherwise, of such Person as an account party in respect of letters of credit and bank guarantees;

 

(8)                                  the principal component of all obligations of such Person in respect of bankers’ acceptances;

 

(9)                                  all Guarantees by such Person of Indebtedness described in clauses (1) through (8) above;

 

(10)                           to the extent not otherwise included, Indebtedness of another Person secured by a Lien on any asset owned by such Person (whether or not such Indebtedness is assumed by such Person); and

 

(11)                           the amount of all obligations of such Person with respect to the redemption, repayment or other repurchase of any Disqualified Stock (excluding accrued dividends that have not increased the liquidation preference of such Disqualified Stock);

 

provided that Indebtedness will not include:

 

(a)                                  trade payables, accrued expenses and intercompany liabilities arising in the ordinary course of business;

 

(b)                                  prepaid or deferred revenue arising in the ordinary course of business;

 

(c)                                   purchase price holdbacks arising in the ordinary course of business in respect of a portion of the purchase prices of an asset to satisfy unperformed obligations of the seller of such asset; or

 

(d)                                  earn-out obligations until such obligations are not paid after becoming due and payable.

 

The Indebtedness of any Person will include the Indebtedness of any partnership in which such Person is a general partner, other than to the extent that the instrument or agreement evidencing such Indebtedness expressly limits the liability of such Person in respect thereof.

 

Indemnified Taxes ” means (1) all Taxes other than Excluded Taxes imposed on or with respect to any payment made by or on account of any obligation of any Loan Party under any Loan Document; and (2) to the extent not otherwise described in clause (1), Other Taxes.

 

Indemnitee ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.05(2).

 

Initial Term Loan Commitments ” means with respect to each Lender, the commitment of such Lender to make Initial Term Loans as set forth on Schedule 2.01(1).  On the Closing Date, the aggregate amount of Initial Term Loan Commitments is $300 million.

 

Initial Term Loan Facility ” means the term loan facility consisting of Initial Term Loans made to the Borrowers.

 

37



 

Initial Term Loan Lender ” means each financial institution listed on Schedule 2.01 (other than any such Person that has ceased to be a party hereto pursuant to an Assignment and Acceptance in accordance with Section 10.04), as well as any Person that becomes a Lender hereunder pursuant to Section 10.04 by assignment of any Initial Term Loans.

 

Initial Term Loans ” means the term loans made to the Borrowers on the Closing Date pursuant to Section 2.01.

 

Initial Venator Distribution Transaction ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.

 

Intellectual Property Rights ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the US Collateral Agreement.

 

Intellectual Property Security Agreements ” shall mean (i) any “Intellectual Property Security Agreement” as defined in the US Collateral Agreement and each other intellectual property security agreement or supplement thereto executed and delivered pursuant to Section 5.10 or Schedule 1.01(3)  (as such schedule may be amended or supplemented from time to time in accordance with the Guaranty and Security Principles).

 

Intercreditor Agreement ” means the Intercreditor Agreement, to be entered into as of the Closing Date, by and among the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent and JPMCB, as administrative agent and collateral agent under the ABL Credit Agreement, Holdings and the Borrowers and the Subsidiary Loan Parties, as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

Interest Coverage Ratio ” means, as of any date, the ratio of (1) the Consolidated EBITDA for the most recent period of four consecutive fiscal quarters for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered, calculated on a Pro Forma Basis, to (2) the sum of (a) the Consolidated Interest Expense of Holdings for such period, calculated on a Pro Forma Basis and in each case, paid or payable in cash, and (b) all cash dividend payments (excluding items eliminated in consolidation and payments on account of tax distributions) on any series of Disqualified Stock of Holdings or preferred stock of any of the Restricted Subsidiaries, in each case, made during such period.

 

Interest Election Request ” means a request by a Borrower to convert or continue a Borrowing in accordance with Section 2.04.

 

Interest Payment Date ” means (1) with respect to any Eurocurrency Loan, the last day of the Interest Period applicable to the Borrowing of which such Term Loan is a part and, in the case of a Eurocurrency Borrowing with an Interest Period of more than three months’ duration, each day that would have been an Interest Payment Date had successive Interest Periods of three months’ duration been applicable to such Borrowing; (2) with respect to any ABR Loan, the last Business Day of each fiscal quarter of Holdings; and (3) to the extent necessary to create a fungible Class of Term Loans and solely with respect to the first Interest Payment Date of a new Class of Term Loans, on any Business Day that any additional Term Loans are incurred.

 

38



 

Interest Period ” means, as to any Eurocurrency Borrowing, the period commencing on the date of such Borrowing or on the last day of the immediately preceding Interest Period applicable to such Borrowing, as applicable, and ending on the numerically corresponding day (or, if there is no numerically corresponding day, on the last day) in the calendar month that is one, two, three or six months thereafter (or, if agreed by all Lenders, 12 months or such shorter interest period), as the applicable Borrower may elect, or the date any Eurocurrency Borrowing is converted to an ABR Borrowing in accordance with Section 2.04 or repaid or prepaid in accordance with Section 2.06, 2.07 or 2.08; provided that:

 

(1)                                  if any Interest Period would end on a day other than a Business Day, such Interest Period will be extended to the next succeeding Business Day unless such next succeeding Business Day would fall in the next calendar month, in which case such Interest Period will end on the next preceding Business Day;

 

(2)                                  any Interest Period that begins on the last Business Day of a calendar month (or on a day for which there is no numerically corresponding day in the calendar month at the end of such Interest Period) will end on the last Business Day of the calendar month at the end of such Interest Period; and

 

(3)                                  no Interest Period will extend beyond the applicable Maturity Date.  Interest will accrue from and including the first day of an Interest Period to but excluding the last day of such Interest Period.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, solely with respect to the initial Interest Period for a new Class of Term Loans, such Interest Period may be adjusted by the Administrative Agent to the extent necessary to create a fungible Class of Term Loans.

 

Interpolated Screen Rate ” means, with respect to any Eurocurrency Loan denominated in any currency for any Interest Period, the rate per annum (rounded to the same number of decimal places as the Screen Rate) determined by the Administrative Agent (which determination shall be conclusive and binding absent manifest error) to be equal to the rate that results from interpolating on a linear basis between: (a) the Screen Rate for the longest period for which the Screen Rate is available for the applicable currency) that is shorter than the Impacted Interest Period; and (b) the Screen Rate for the shortest period (for which that Screen Rate is available for the applicable currency) that exceeds the Impacted Interest Period, in each case, at such time.

 

Investment ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.04.

 

Investment Grade Rating ” means a rating equal to or higher than Baa3 (or the equivalent) by Moody’s and BBB- (or the equivalent) by S&P (or reasonably equivalent ratings of another internationally recognized rating agency).

 

Investment Grade Securities ” means:

 

(1)                                  securities issued or directly and fully guaranteed or insured by the U.S. government or any agency or instrumentality thereof (other than Cash Equivalents);

 

39



 

(2)                                  securities that have an Investment Grade Rating, but excluding any debt securities or instruments constituting loans or advances among Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(3)                                  corresponding instruments in countries other than the United States customarily utilized for high quality investments and in each case with maturities not exceeding two years from the date of acquisition; and

 

(4)                                  investments in any fund that invests at least 95.0% of its assets in investments of the type described in clauses (1) and (2) above which fund may also hold immaterial amounts of cash pending investment and/or distribution.

 

Joint Venture ” means (a) any Person which would constitute an “equity method investee” of the Borrowers or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries and (b) any Person in whom the Borrowers or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries beneficially owns any Equity Interest that is not a Restricted Subsidiary (other than an Unrestricted Subsidiary).

 

JPMCB ” means JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A.

 

Junior Financing ” means (1) any Indebtedness permitted to be incurred hereunder that is contractually subordinated in right of payment to the Obligations or secured by Liens that are contractually subordinated to the Liens securing the Obligations (other than the ABL Obligations), (2) any unsecured Indebtedness for borrowed money (other than unsecured Indebtedness in a principal amount not exceeding $15 million in the aggregate over the term of this Agreement) or (3) any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in respect of any of the foregoing.

 

Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement ” means a “junior lien” intercreditor agreement reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.  Upon the request of Holdings, the Administrative Agent and Collateral Agent will execute and deliver a Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement with the Loan Parties and one or more Debt Representatives for Indebtedness permitted hereunder that is permitted to be secured on a junior basis to the Term Loans.

 

Latest Maturity Date ” means, as of any date of determination, the latest Maturity Date of the Term Facilities in effect on such date.

 

LCA Election ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 1.07(a).

 

LCA Test Date ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 1.07(a).

 

Legal Reservations ” means:

 

(1)           the principle that enforceability may be limited by applicable bankruptcy, insolvency, pre-insolvency proceedings (including, insofar as it refers to Spanish Loan Parties, transactions that may derive from articles 5 bis, 71 and 71 bis, as well as Additional Provision 4th of the Spanish Insolvency Law), reorganization, moratorium or

 

40


 

similar laws affecting the enforcement of creditors’ rights generally and by general equitable principles (whether enforcement is sought by proceedings in equity or at law);

 

(2)           the time barring of claims under any applicable law of any Relevant Jurisdiction, the possibility that an undertaking to assume liability for or indemnify a person against non-payment of stamp duty may be void, the possibility that a court may strike out provisions of a contract as being invalid for reasons of oppression, undue influence or similar reasons and defenses of set-off or counterclaim and similar principles, rights, defenses and limitations under the laws of any applicable jurisdiction;

 

(3)           the principle that in certain circumstances Liens granted by way of fixed charge may be re-characterized as a floating charge or that Liens purported to be constituted as an assignment may be re-characterized as a charge;

 

(4)           the principle that additional interest imposed pursuant to any relevant agreement may be held to be unenforceable on the grounds that it is a penalty and therefore void;

 

(5)           the principle that a court may not give effect to an indemnity for legal costs incurred by an unsuccessful litigant;

 

(6)           the principle that the creation or purported creation of a Lien over any contract or agreement which is subject to a prohibition on transfer, assignment or charging may be void, ineffective or invalid and may give rise to a breach of the contract or agreement over which a Lien has purportedly been created;

 

(7)           implied covenants of good faith and fair dealing;

 

(8)           similar principles, rights and defenses under the laws of any Relevant Jurisdiction; and

 

(9)           any other matters which are set out as qualifications or reservations as to matters of law of general application in the legal opinions delivered pursuant to this Agreement.

 

Lender ” means each Initial Term Loan Lender and any Additional Lender.

 

Lender Default ” means:

 

(1)                                  the refusal (which has not been retracted) or failure of any Lender to make available its portion of any Borrowing, unless such Lender notifies the Administrative Agent and Holdings in writing that such failure is the result of such Lender’s good faith determination that a condition precedent to funding (each of which conditions precedent, together with any applicable default, shall be specifically identified in such writing) has not been satisfied;

 

(2)                                  any Lender has notified Holdings or the Administrative Agent that it does not intend to comply with its funding obligations or has made a public statement to that effect with

 

41



 

respect to its funding obligations under the Term Facility or under other similar agreements in which it commits to extend credit;

 

(3)                                  any Lender has, or has a direct or indirect parent company that has, become the subject of a Bail-In Action; or

 

(4)                                  the admission by any Lender in writing that it is insolvent or such Lender becoming subject to a Lender-Related Distress Event.

 

Lender-Related Distress Event ” means, with respect to any Lender or any Person that directly or indirectly controls a Lender (each, a “ Distressed Person ”), as the case may be, a voluntary or involuntary case with respect to such Distressed Person under any debt relief law, or a custodian, conservator, administrator, receiver or similar official is appointed for such Distressed Person or any substantial part of such Distressed Person’s assets, or such Distressed Person or any Person that directly or indirectly controls such Distressed Person is subject to a forced liquidation or Bail-In Action, or such Distressed Person makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors or is otherwise adjudicated as, or determined by any Governmental Authority having regulatory authority over such Distressed Person or its assets to be, insolvent or bankrupt; provided that a Lender-Related Distress Event will not be deemed to have occurred solely by virtue of the ownership or acquisition of any Equity Interests in any Lender or any Person that directly or indirectly controls such Lender by a Governmental Authority or an instrumentality thereof.

 

Lending Office ” means, as to any Lender, the applicable branch, office or Affiliate of such Lender designated by such Lender to make Term Loans.

 

Letter of Credit ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the ABL Credit Agreement.

 

LIBO Rate ” means with respect to any Eurocurrency Borrowing for any applicable currency and for any Interest Period, the Screen Rate at approximately 11:00 a.m., London time, two Business Days prior to the commencement of such Interest Period; provided that if the Screen Rate shall not be available at such time for such Interest Period (an “ Impacted Interest Period ”) with respect to the applicable currency then the LIBO Rate shall be the Interpolated Screen Rate.

 

Lien ” means, with respect to any asset (1) any mortgage, deed of trust, lien, hypothecation, pledge, charge, license, security interest or similar encumbrance in or on such asset; or (2) the interest of a vendor or a lessor under any conditional sale agreement, capital lease or title retention agreement (or any financing lease having substantially the same economic effect as any of the foregoing) relating to such asset; provided that in no event will an operating lease, any capital lease in respect of Real Property permitted hereunder or an agreement to sell be deemed to constitute a Lien.

 

Limited Condition Acquisition ” means any acquisition, including by way of merger, by Holdings or one or more Restricted Subsidiaries permitted pursuant to the Loan

 

42



 

Documents whose consummation is not conditioned on the availability of, or on obtaining, third party financing.

 

Loan Documents ” means this Agreement, the Guaranty, the Security Documents, the Intercreditor Agreement, any First Lien Intercreditor Agreement, any Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement, any Note and, solely for the purposes of Sections 3.01, 3.02, and 8.01(3) hereof, the Fee Letter.

 

Loan Parties ” means Holdings, the Borrowers and the Subsidiary Loan Parties.

 

Luxembourg ” means the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.

 

Luxembourg Loan Party ” means Lux Borrower and any other Loan Party incorporated in Luxembourg.

 

Margin Stock ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Regulation U.

 

Material Adverse Effect ” means a material adverse effect on:

 

(1)                                  the business, financial condition or results of operations, in each case, of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries (taken as a whole);

 

(2)                                  the ability of the Borrowers and the Guarantors (taken as a whole) to perform their payment obligations under the Loan Documents; or

 

(3)                                  the rights and remedies of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders (taken as a whole) under the Loan Documents.

 

Material Indebtedness ” means Indebtedness (other than the Term Loans) of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Subsidiary Loan Party in an aggregate outstanding principal amount exceeding $50 million.

 

Material Subsidiary ” means any Subsidiary other than an Immaterial Subsidiary.

 

Maturity Date ” means, as the context may require:

 

(1)                                  with respect to all Initial Term Loans, the date that occurs seven years after the Closing Date;

 

(2)                                  with respect to any Incremental Term Loans, the final maturity date specified therefor in the applicable Incremental Facility Amendment;

 

(3)                                  with respect to any Other Term Loans, the final maturity date specified therefor in the applicable Refinancing Amendment; and

 

(4)                                  with respect to any Extended Term Loans, the final maturity date specified therefor in the applicable Extension Amendment.

 

43



 

Maximum Liability ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 1.09.

 

Maximum Rate ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.09.

 

MIRE Event ” means if there are any Mortgaged Properties at such time, any increase, extension or renewal of any of the Commitments or Loans (including an Incremental Loan or any other incremental credit facilities hereunder, but excluding (i) any continuation or conversion of borrowings, (ii) the making of any Loan or (iii) the issuance, renewal or extension of Letters of Credit).

 

MNPI ” means any material Nonpublic Information regarding Holdings and the Subsidiaries that has not been disclosed to the Lenders generally (other than Lenders who elect not to receive such information).  For purposes of this definition “material Nonpublic Information” means Nonpublic Information that would reasonably be expected to be material to a decision by any Lender to assign or acquire any Term Loans or to enter into any of the transactions contemplated thereby.

 

Moody’s ” means Moody’s Investors Service, Inc.

 

Mortgaged Properties ” means, all Owned Material Real Property, as to which the Collateral Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties shall be granted a Lien pursuant to the Mortgages.

 

Mortgages ” means each of the mortgages, deeds of trust and deeds to secure debt or other security document made by any Loan Party, reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, in favor of, or for the benefit of, the Collateral Agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties, as the same may be amended, supplemented, replaced or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

Multiemployer Plan ” means a multiemployer plan as defined in Section 4001(a)(3) of ERISA to which Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary or any ERISA Affiliate (other than one considered an ERISA Affiliate only pursuant to subsection (m) or (o) of Code Section 414) is making or accruing an obligation to make contributions, or has within any of the preceding five plan years made or accrued an obligation to make contributions.

 

Net Cash Proceeds ” means the aggregate cash proceeds (using the fair market value of any Cash Equivalents) received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in respect of any Asset Sale (including any cash received in respect of or upon the sale or other disposition of any Designated Non-Cash Consideration received in any Asset Sale and any cash payments received by way of deferred payment of principal pursuant to a note or installment receivable or otherwise, but only as and when received, and including any proceeds received as a result of unwinding any related Hedge Agreements in connection with such transaction but excluding the assumption by the acquiring Person of Indebtedness relating to the disposed assets or other consideration received in any other non-cash form), net of the direct cash costs relating to such Asset Sale and the sale or disposition of such Designated Non-Cash Consideration (including legal, accounting and investment banking fees, and brokerage and sales commissions), and any

 

44



 

relocation expenses incurred as a result thereof, taxes paid or payable as a result thereof (after taking into account any available tax credits or deductions and any tax sharing arrangements related thereto), amounts required to be applied to the repayment of principal, premium (if any) and interest on Indebtedness required to be paid as a result of such transaction that is secured by a Permitted Lien that is prior or senior to the Lien securing the Obligations, any costs associated with unwinding any related Hedge Agreements in connection with such transaction and any deduction of appropriate amounts to be provided by Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries as a reserve in accordance with GAAP against any liabilities associated with the asset disposed of in such transaction and retained by Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries after such sale or other disposition thereof, including pension and other post-employment benefit liabilities and liabilities related to environmental matters or against any indemnification obligations associated with such transaction; provided that such reserved amounts will be deemed to be Net Cash Proceeds to the extent and at the time of any reversal thereof (to the extent not applied to the satisfaction of any applicable liabilities in cash in a corresponding amount).  For purposes of Section 2.08(1), no cash proceeds realized in connection with an Asset Sale will be deemed to be Net Cash Proceeds unless such Asset Sale involves aggregate consideration in excess of $5 million.

 

New York Courts ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.15(1).

 

No MNPI Representation ” means, with respect to any Person, a customary representation that such Person is not in possession of any MNPI.

 

Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction ” means, with respect to a French Guarantor, a “non-cooperative state or territory” ( Etat ou territoire non coopératif ) as set out in the list referred to in Article 238-0 A of the French tax code ( Code Général des Impôts ), as such list may be amended from time to time.

 

Non-Debt Fund Affiliate ” shall mean any Affiliate of Holdings (other than Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary of the Borrowers) that is not a Debt Fund Affiliate.

 

Non-Consenting Lender ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.16(3).

 

Non-Ratio Based Incremental Facility Cap ” means the sum of (x) $225 million, (y) the aggregate principal amount of any voluntary prepayments of Term Loans made pursuant to Section 2.07 and (z) the aggregate principal amount of Term Loans purchased pursuant to Section 10.04(14) by any Purchasing Borrower Party, in each case of (y) and (z), to the extent not funded with the proceeds of long-term Indebtedness.

 

Note ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.05(5).

 

NYFRB ” means the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.

 

NYFRB Rate ” means, for any day, the greater of (a) the Federal Funds Rate in effect on such day and (b) the Overnight Bank Funding Rate in effect on such day (or for any

 

45



 

day that is not a Business Day, for the immediately preceding Business Day); provided that if none of such rates are published for any day that is a Business Day, the term “NYFRB Rate” means the rate for a federal funds transaction quoted at 11:00 a.m. on such day received to the Administrative Agent from a Federal funds broker of recognized standing selected by it; provided, further , that if any of the aforesaid rates shall be less than zero, such rate shall be deemed to be zero for purposes of this Agreement.

 

Obligations ” means:

 

(1)                                  all amounts owing to any Agent or any Lender pursuant to the terms of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, including all interest and expenses accrued or accruing (or that would, absent the commencement of an insolvency or liquidation proceeding, accrue) after the commencement by or against any Loan Party of any proceeding under Title 11 of the United States Code, as now constituted or hereafter amended, or any other federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, administration, receivership or similar law naming such Loan Party as the debtor in such proceeding, in accordance with and at the rate specified in this Agreement, whether or not the claim for such interest or expense is allowed or allowable as a claim in such proceeding; and

 

(2)                                  from and after the Closing Date, any Specified Hedge Obligations;

 

provided that:

 

(a)                                  any Specified Hedge Obligations will be secured and Guaranteed pursuant to the Security Documents only to the extent that, and for so long as, the other Obligations are so secured and Guaranteed;

 

(b)                                  any release of Collateral or Guarantors  effected in the manner permitted by this Agreement or any Security Document will not require the consent of any Qualified Counterparty pursuant to any Loan Document; and

 

(c)                                   Obligations shall not, in any event, include any Excluded Swap Obligation.

 

OFAC ” means the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control.

 

Original Term Loan Installment Date ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.06(1).

 

Other Connection Taxes ” means, with respect to any Recipient, Taxes imposed as a result of a present or former connection between such Recipient and the jurisdiction imposing such Tax (other than connections arising solely from such Recipient having executed, delivered, become a party to, performed its obligations under, received payments under, received or perfected a security interest under, engaged in any other transaction pursuant to or enforced any Loan Document, or sold or assigned an interest in any Term Loan or Loan Document).

 

Other First Lien Indebtedness ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.08(1)(c).

 

46



 

Other Taxes ” means any and all present or future stamp, court or documentary, intangible, recording, filing or similar Taxes that arise from any payment made under, from the execution, delivery, performance, enforcement or registration of, from the receipt or perfection of a security interest under, or otherwise with respect to, any Loan Document, except any such Taxes that are Other Connection Taxes imposed with respect to an assignment (other than an assignment made pursuant to Section 2.16(2)) and Taxes due as a result of registration or other action by the Administrative Agent or any Lender where such registration or action is not: (a) necessary to maintain, preserve, establish, enforce, perfect or protect the rights of the Administrative Agent or any Lender under the Loan Documents; or (b) required by any competent tax administration or supervisory body.

 

Other Term Loan Installment Date ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.06(2).

 

Other Term Loans ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 2.19(1).

 

Overnight Bank Funding Rate ” means, for any day, the rate comprised of both overnight federal funds and overnight eurocurrency borrowings by U.S.-managed banking offices of depository institutions, as such composite rate shall be determined by the NYFRB as set forth on its public website from time to time, and published on the next succeeding Business Day by the NYFRB as an overnight bank funding rate (from and after such date as the NYFRB shall commence to publish such composite rate).

 

Owned Material Real Property ” means any Real Property owned in fee by any of the Loan Parties that has a fair market value (as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings) of $15 million or more, other than (i) any Real Property that is a US Excluded Asset, (ii) that would be excluded from the Collateral pursuant to the Guaranty and Security Principles, (iii) Real Property located at 302 Midway Road, Freeport, TX 77541 or (iv) as otherwise agreed by the Administrative Agent.

 

Parent Entity ” means any direct or indirect parent of the Borrowers, including, for the avoidance of doubt, Holdings.

 

Participant ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(4)(a).

 

Participant Register ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(4)(a).

 

Payment Office ” means s the office of the Administrative Agent located at 500 Stanton Christiana Road, NCC5, Floor 01, Newark, DE 19713-2107, Attention of Joe Aftanis (Telephone: 302-552-0847, Fax: 12016395215@tls.ldsprod.com), or such other office as the Administrative Agent may hereafter designate to the Borrowers and the Lenders from time to time.

 

PBGC ” means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation referred to and defined in ERISA, or any successor thereto.

 

Pensions Regulator ” means the body corporate called the Pensions Regulator established under Part I of the Pensions Act 2004 (UK).

 

47



 

Perfection Certificate ” means the Perfection Certificate with respect to the US Loan Parties in a form substantially similar to that delivered on the Closing Date.

 

Permitted Acquisition ” means any acquisition of all or substantially all the assets of, or a majority of the Equity Interests in, or merger, consolidation or amalgamation with, a Person or division or line of business of a Person (or any subsequent investment made in a Person, division or line of business previously acquired in a Permitted Acquisition) if (1) no Event of Default is continuing immediately prior to making such Investment or would result therefrom; and (2) immediately after giving effect thereto, with respect to acquisitions of entities that do not become Subsidiary Loan Parties, the aggregate fair market value of all Investments made in such entities since the Closing Date (with all such Investments being valued at their original fair market value and without taking into account subsequent increases or decreases in value) will not exceed the greater of (a) $65 million and (b) 2.6% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such acquisition is made.

 

Permitted Amendment ” means any Incremental Facility Amendment, Refinancing Amendment or Extension Amendment.

 

Permitted Debt ” has the meaning assigned thereto in Section 6.01.

 

Permitted Holders ” means each of:

 

(1)                                  (i) Huntsman Corporation and (ii) after the consummation of the Huntsman-Clariant Merger, Clariant, and, in each case, any of their Affiliates and successors-in-interest; and

 

(2)                                  any group (within the meaning of Rules 13d-3 and 13d-5 under the Exchange Act) of which the Persons described in clause (1) above are members; provided that, without giving effect to the existence of such group or any other group, the Persons described in clause (1), collectively, beneficially own Voting Stock representing 50% or more of the total voting power of the Voting Stock of Holdings then held by such group.

 

Permitted Investment ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.04.

 

Permitted Liens ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.02.

 

Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness ” means any Indebtedness issued in exchange for, or the net proceeds of which are used to extend, refinance, renew, replace, defease or refund (collectively, “ Refinance ”) the Indebtedness being Refinanced (or previous refinancings thereof constituting Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness); provided that:

 

(1)                                  the principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable) of such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness does not exceed the principal amount (or accreted value, if applicable) of the Indebtedness so Refinanced ( plus unpaid accrued interest and premium (including tender premiums) thereon and underwriting discounts or original issue discount, defeasance costs, fees, commissions and expenses);

 

(2)                                  the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness is greater than or equal to the shorter of (a) the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the

 

48



 

Indebtedness being Refinanced and (b) the Weighted Average Life to Maturity that would result if all payments of principal on the Indebtedness being Refinanced that were due on or after the date that is one year following the Latest Maturity Date were instead due on the date that is one year following the Latest Maturity Date; provided that no Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred in reliance on this subclause (b) will have any scheduled principal payments due prior to the Latest Maturity Date in excess of, or prior to, the scheduled principal payments due prior to such Latest Maturity Date for the Indebtedness being Refinanced;

 

(3)                                  if the Indebtedness being Refinanced is subordinated in right of payment to any Obligations under this Agreement, such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness is subordinated in right of payment to such Obligations on terms at least as favorable to the Lenders (as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings) as those contained in the documentation governing the Indebtedness being Refinanced;

 

(4)                                  no Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness may have different obligors, or greater Guarantees or security, than the Indebtedness being Refinanced; provided that, with respect to a Refinancing of the ABL Obligations, the Liens on the Collateral, if any, securing such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness will be on terms not materially less favorable to the Lenders than those contained in the documentation governing the ABL Credit Agreement, as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings;

 

(5)                                  the terms and conditions (including, if applicable, as to collateral) of any such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness are either (i) substantially identical to or less favorable to the providers of such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness, taken as a whole, than the terms and conditions of the Indebtedness being Refinanced (except for any such terms that are applicable only to periods following the Latest Maturity Date of the Term Loans) or (ii) when taken as a whole (other than interest rate, prepayment premiums and redemption premiums), not more restrictive to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries than those set forth in this Agreement or are customary for similar indebtedness in light of current market conditions;

 

(6)                                  in the case of a Refinancing of Indebtedness that is secured by the Collateral on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans with Indebtedness that is secured by the Collateral  on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans, a Debt Representative acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness has become party to or is otherwise subject to the provisions of a First Lien Intercreditor Agreement and, if applicable, the Intercreditor Agreement;

 

(7)                                  in the case of a Refinancing of Indebtedness that is secured by the Collateral on a pari passu basis with, or on a junior basis to, the Term Loans with Indebtedness that is secured by the Collateral on a junior basis, to the Term Loans, a Debt Representative acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness has become party to or is otherwise subject to the provisions of a Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement and, if applicable, the Intercreditor Agreement; and

 

(8)                                  in the case of a Refinancing of the ABL Obligations, the Liens on the Collateral, if any, securing such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness are subject to the Intercreditor

 

49



 

Agreement or another intercreditor agreement that is substantially consistent with, and no less favorable to the Lenders in any material respect than, the Intercreditor Agreement as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings and as certified by a Responsible Officer of Holdings.

 

Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness may not be incurred to Refinance Indebtedness that is secured by the Collateral on a junior basis to the Term Loans with Indebtedness that is secured by the Collateral on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans.

 

Indebtedness constituting Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness will not cease to constitute Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness as a result of the subsequent extension of the Latest Maturity Date after the date of original incurrence thereof.

 

Person ” means any natural person, corporation, business trust, joint venture, association, company, partnership, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, government, individual or family trust, Governmental Authority or other entity of whatever nature.

 

Pigments and Additives Business ” means the titanium dioxide and performance additives businesses and related assets of Huntsman and its Subsidiaries.

 

Plan ” means any “employee pension benefit plan” as defined in Section 3(2) of ERISA (other than a Multiemployer Plan) that is (1) subject to the provisions of Title IV of ERISA or Section 412 of the Code or Section 302 of ERISA; and (2) either (a) sponsored or maintained (at the time of determination or at any time within the five years prior thereto) by Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or any ERISA Affiliate or (b) in respect of which Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or any ERISA Affiliate is (or, if such plan were terminated, would under Section 4069 of ERISA be deemed to be) an “employer” as defined in Section 3(5) of ERISA.

 

Plan of Reorganization ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 9.01(5).

 

PPSA ” means mean the Personal Property Security Act (Ontario) and the Regulations and Orders made thereunder, as from time to time in effect, provided, however, if attachment, perfection or priority of Administrative Agent’s security interests in any Collateral are governed by the personal property security laws of any jurisdiction other than Ontario, PPSA shall mean those personal property security laws in such other jurisdiction for the purposes of the provisions hereof relating to such attachment, perfection or priority and for the definitions related to such provisions.

 

Principal Obligations ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 9.03(a).

 

Prime Rate ” means the rate of interest per annum publicly announced from time to time by JPMCB as its prime rate in effect at its office located at 270 Park Avenue, New York, New York; each change in the Prime Rate shall be effective from and including the date such change is publicly announced as being effective.

 

50


 

Pro Forma Basis ” or “ Pro Forma ” means, with respect to the calculation of the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio, the Total Net Leverage Ratio, the Interest Coverage Ratio or any other calculation under any applicable provision of the Loan Documents, as of any date, that (1) pro forma effect will be given to the Transactions, any Permitted Acquisition or Investment, any issuance, incurrence, assumption or permanent repayment of Indebtedness (including Indebtedness issued, incurred or assumed as a result of, or to finance, any relevant transaction and for which any such financial ratio or other calculation is being calculated), all sales, transfers and other dispositions or discontinuance of any Subsidiary, line of business, division or store, or any conversion of a Restricted Subsidiary to an Unrestricted Subsidiary or of an Unrestricted Subsidiary to a Restricted Subsidiary and restructuring, strategic and other cost savings initiatives, in each case that have occurred during the four consecutive fiscal quarter period of Holdings being used to calculate such financial ratio (the “ Reference Period ”), or subsequent to the end of the Reference Period but prior to such date or prior to or simultaneously with the event for which a determination under this definition is made (including any such event occurring at a Person who became a Restricted Subsidiary after the commencement of the Reference Period), as if each such event occurred on the first day of the Reference Period, and (2) pro forma effect will be given to factually supportable and identifiable pro forma cost savings related to operational efficiencies, strategic initiatives or purchasing improvements and other synergies, in each case, reasonably expected by Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries to be realized based upon actions reasonably expected to be taken within 18 months of the date of such calculation (without duplication of the amount of actual benefit realized during such period from such actions), which cost savings, improvements and synergies can be reasonably computed, as certified in writing by a Financial Officer of Holdings; provided that any such pro forma adjustments in respect of such cost savings, improvements and synergies (other than with respect to the Transactions) shall not exceed 20% of Consolidated EBITDA (before giving effect to all such adjustments) for any four-quarter period; provided, further than such 20% cap shall not apply to Holdings’ cost savings program that was publicly announced prior to the Effective Date in an amount not to exceed $60 million.

 

Process Agent ” has the meaning specified in Section 10.15.

 

Projections ” means all projections (including financial estimates, financial models, forecasts and other forward-looking information) furnished to the Lenders or the Administrative Agent by or on behalf of Holdings or any of the Subsidiaries on or prior to the Closing Date.

 

Public Lender ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 9.03(1).

 

Purchasing Borrower Party ” means Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings that becomes an Assignee or Participant pursuant to Section 10.04(14).

 

Qualified Counterparty ” means any counterparty to any Specified Hedge Agreement that, at the time such Specified Hedge Agreement was entered into or on the Closing Date, was an Agent, an Arranger, a Lender or an Affiliate of the foregoing, whether or not such Person subsequently ceases to be an Agent, an Arranger, a Lender or an Affiliate of the foregoing.

 

51



 

Qualified Equity Interests ” means any Equity Interests other than Disqualified Stock.

 

Qualified Receivables Financing ” means any Receivables Financing of a Receivables Subsidiary that meets the following conditions:

 

(1)                                  the Board of Directors of Holdings has determined in good faith that such Qualified Receivables Financing (including financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions) is, in the aggregate, economically fair and reasonable to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(2)                                  all sales or contributions of accounts receivable and related assets by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary to the Receivables Subsidiary are made at fair market value (as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings); and

 

(3)                                  the financing terms, covenants, termination events and other provisions thereof will be market terms (as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings) and may include Standard Securitization Undertakings.

 

The grant of a security interest in any accounts receivable of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (other than a Receivables Subsidiary) to secure any Indebtedness will not be deemed a Qualified Receivables Financing; provided , however , that a grant of a security interest in such accounts receivable to perfect the transfer of an ownership interest in such accounts receivable to a Receivables Subsidiary shall not be considered a grant to secure any Indebtedness.

 

Quarterly Financial Statements ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.04(2).

 

Ratio Debt ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.01.

 

Real Property ” means, collectively, all right, title and interest (including any leasehold estate) in and to any and all parcels of or interests in real property owned in fee or leased, subleased or licensed by any Loan Party, together with, in each case, all easements, hereditaments and appurtenances relating thereto, and all improvements and appurtenant fixtures incidental to the ownership, lease, sublease or license thereof.

 

Receivables Facility ” means one or more receivables financing facilities, as amended, supplemented, modified, extended, renewed, restated, refunded, replaced or refinanced from time to time, the Indebtedness of which is non-recourse (except for standard representations, warranties, covenants and indemnities made in connection with such facilities) to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries pursuant to which Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary sells or contributes its accounts receivable to either (1) a Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary; or (2) a Receivables Subsidiary that in turn sells its accounts receivable to a Person that is not a Restricted Subsidiary or borrows against such accounts receivable.

 

52



 

Receivables Financing ” means any transaction or series of transactions that may be entered into by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary pursuant to which Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiaries may sell, convey, contribute or otherwise transfer to:

 

(1)                                  a Receivables Subsidiary (in the case of a transfer by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Receivables Subsidiary); and

 

(2)                                  any other Person (in the case of a transfer by a Receivables Subsidiary), or may grant a security interest in, any accounts receivable (whether now existing or arising in the future) of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, and any assets related thereto including all collateral securing such accounts receivable, all contracts and all guarantees or other obligations in respect of such accounts receivable, proceeds of such accounts receivable and other assets which are customarily transferred or in respect of which security interests are customarily granted in connection with asset securitization transactions involving accounts receivable and any Hedge Agreements entered into by Holdings or any such Restricted Subsidiary in connection with such accounts receivable.

 

Receivables Repurchase Obligation ” means any obligation of a seller to repurchase receivables transferred by such seller in a Qualified Receivables Financing, which obligation arises as a result of a breach of a representation, warranty or covenant or otherwise, including as a result of a receivable or portion thereof becoming subject to any asserted defense, dispute, off-set or counterclaim of any kind as a result of any action taken by, any failure to take action by or any other event relating to the seller.

 

Receivables Subsidiary ” means a Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings (or another Person formed solely for the purposes of engaging in a Qualified Receivables Financing with Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary and to which Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary transfers accounts receivable and related assets) which engages in no activities other than in connection with the financing of accounts receivable of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries, all proceeds thereof and all rights (contractual or other), collateral and other assets relating thereto, and any business or activities incidental or related to such business, and which is designated by the Board of Directors of Holdings (as provided below) as a Receivables Subsidiary and:

 

(1)                                  no portion of the Indebtedness or any other obligations (contingent or otherwise):

 

(a)                                  is guaranteed by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (excluding guarantees of obligations (other than the principal of, and interest on, Indebtedness) pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings, including servicing performance guarantees);

 

(b)                                  is recourse to or obligates Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in any way other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings, including servicing performance guarantees; or

 

53



 

(c)                                   subjects any property or asset of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary, directly or indirectly, contingently or otherwise, to the satisfaction thereof, other than pursuant to Standard Securitization Undertakings;

 

(2)                                  with which neither Holdings nor any Restricted Subsidiary has any material contract, agreement, arrangement or understanding other than on terms which Holdings reasonably believes to be no less favorable to Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary than those that might be obtained at the time from Persons that are not Affiliates of Holdings; and

 

(3)                                  to which neither Holdings nor any other Restricted Subsidiary has any obligation to maintain or preserve such entity’s financial condition or cause such entity to achieve certain levels of operating results.

 

Any such designation by the Board of Directors of Holdings will be evidenced to the Administrative Agent by filing with the Administrative Agent a certified copy of the resolution of the Board of Directors of Holdings giving effect to such designation and a certificate of a Responsible Officer of Holdings certifying that such designation complied with the foregoing conditions.

 

Recipient ” means the Administrative Agent and any Lender, as applicable.

 

Refinance ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the definition of “ Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness ,” and the terms “ Refinanced ” and “ Refinancing ” will have correlative meanings.

 

Refinancing Amendment ” means an amendment to this Agreement (and, as necessary, each other Loan Document) executed by each of (1) the Borrowers and Holdings; (2) the Administrative Agent; and (3) each Lender that agrees to provide any portion of the Other Term Loans in accordance with Section 2.19.

 

Register ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(2)(d).

 

Registered Equivalent Notes ” means, with respect to any notes originally issued in a Rule 144A or other private placement transaction under the Securities Act, substantially identical notes (having the same Guarantees and collateral provisions) issued by either Borrower in a dollar-for-dollar exchange therefor pursuant to an exchange offer registered with the SEC.

 

Regulation T ” means Regulation T of the Board as from time to time in effect and all official rulings and interpretations thereunder or thereof.

 

Regulation U ” means Regulation U of the Board as from time to time in effect and all official rulings and interpretations thereunder or thereof.

 

Regulation X ” means Regulation X of the Board as from time to time in effect and all official rulings and interpretations thereunder or thereof.

 

Reinvestment Deferred Amount ” means, with respect to any Reinvestment Event, the aggregate amount of Net Cash Proceeds received by Holdings or a Restricted

 

54



 

Subsidiary in connection therewith that are not applied to prepay the Term Loans as a result of the delivery of a Reinvestment Notice.

 

Reinvestment Event ” means any Asset Sale in respect of which Holdings has delivered a Reinvestment Notice.

 

Reinvestment Notice ” means a written notice executed by a Responsible Officer of Holdings stating that Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary intends and expects to use an amount of funds not to exceed the amount of Net Cash Proceeds of an Asset Sale to restore, rebuild, repair, construct, improve, replace or otherwise acquire assets used or useful in Holdings’ or a Restricted Subsidiary’s business.

 

Reinvestment Prepayment Amount ” means, with respect to any Reinvestment Event, the Reinvestment Deferred Amount relating thereto less any amount expended by Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary prior to the relevant Reinvestment Prepayment Date to restore, rebuild, repair, construct, improve, replace or otherwise acquire assets used or useful in Holdings’ or a Restricted Subsidiary’s business.

 

Reinvestment Prepayment Date ” means, with respect to any Reinvestment Event, the date occurring one year after such Reinvestment Event or, if Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary has entered into a legally binding commitment within one year after such Reinvestment Event to restore, rebuild, repair, construct, improve, replace or otherwise acquire assets used or useful in Holdings’ or a Restricted Subsidiary’s business, the date occurring two years after such Reinvestment Event.

 

Related Parties ” means, with respect to any specified Person, (1) such Person’s controlled Affiliates and the respective directors, officers and employees of such Person and such Persons’ controlled Affiliates and (2) the agents, advisors and other representatives of such Person and such Person’s controlled Affiliates in each case acting on behalf of, or at the express instructions of, such Person or such Person’s controlled Affiliates.

 

Release ” means any spilling, leaking, seepage, pumping, pouring, emitting, emptying, discharging, injecting, escaping, leaching, dumping, disposing, depositing, dispersing, emanating or migrating in, into, upon, onto or through the Environment.

 

Relevant Jurisdiction ” means, in relation to a Loan Party:

 

(a) the jurisdiction under whose laws that Loan Party is incorporated or organized as at the date of this Agreement or as at the date on which that Loan Party becomes party to this Agreement (as the case may be);

 

(b) any jurisdiction where it conducts its business; and

 

(c) any jurisdiction where any asset subject to or intended to be subject to the Liens to be created by it is situated.

 

Reportable Event ” means any reportable event as defined in Section 4043(c) of ERISA or the regulations issued thereunder, other than those events as to which the 30 day

 

55



 

notice period referred to in Section 4043(c) of ERISA has been waived, with respect to a Plan (other than a Plan maintained by an ERISA Affiliate that is considered an ERISA Affiliate only pursuant to subsection (m) or (o) of Section 414 of the Code).

 

Repricing Event ” means (1) any prepayment of the Initial Term Loans with the proceeds of, or any conversion of such Initial Term Loans into, any new or replacement tranche of debt financing bearing interest at yield that is less than the yield applicable to such Class of Term Loans and (2) any amendment to the Initial Term Loan Facility  that, directly or indirectly, reduces the yield applicable to the Initial Term Loans (in each case, calculating such yield consistent with the methodology for calculating the “yield” of the Initial Term Loans and any “Incremental Yield” pursuant to the terms of Section 2.18(8)); provided that no Repricing Event will be deemed to occur in connection with (x) a transaction not consummated for the primary purpose of lowering of the yield applicable to the Initial Term Loans (as determined in good faith by Holdings) or (y) a Change in Control or Enterprise Transformative Event.

 

Required Financial Statements ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.04(2).

 

Required Lender Consent Items ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(12)(c).

 

Required Lenders ” means, at any time, Lenders having Term Loans outstanding and unused Commitments that, taken together, represent more than 50.0% of the sum of all Term Loans outstanding and Commitments at such time.  The Term Loans and Commitments of any Defaulting Lender will be disregarded in determining Required Lenders; provided that subject to the Borrowers’ right to replace Defaulting Lenders as set forth herein, Defaulting Lenders will be included in determining Required Lenders with respect to:

 

(1)                                  any amendment that would disproportionately affect the obligation of the Borrowers to make payment of the Term Loans or Commitments of such Defaulting Lender as compared to other Lenders holding the same Class of Term Loans or Commitments;

 

(2)                                  any amendment relating to:

 

(a)                                  increases in the Commitment of such Defaulting Lender;

 

(b)                                  reductions of principal, interest, fees or premium applicable to the Class of Term Loans held by such Defaulting Lender or Commitments of such Defaulting Lender; and

 

(c)                                   extensions of final maturity or the due date of any amortization, interest, fee or premium payment applicable to the Class of Term Loans held by such Defaulting Lender or Commitments of such Defaulting Lender; and

 

(3)                                  matters requiring the approval of each Lender under subclauses (v) and (vi) of Section 10.08(2).

 

56



 

Required Percentage ” means, with respect to any Excess Cash Flow Period, the percentage set forth in the table below based on Total Net Leverage Ratio determined as of the last day of such Excess Cash Flow Period:

 

Total Net Leverage Ratio

 

Required Percentage

 

Greater than 2.70 to 1.00

 

50.00

%

Less than or equal to 2.70 to 1.00 but greater than 2.20 to 1.00

 

25.00

%

Less than or equal to 2.20 to 1.00

 

0.00

%

 

Responsible Officer ” means, with respect to any Loan Party, the chief executive officer, president, vice president, statutory director, secretary, assistant secretary or any Financial Officer of such Loan Party (or any other officer or director with equivalent duties) or any other individual designated in writing to the Administrative Agent by an existing Responsible Officer of such Loan Party as an authorized signatory of any certificate or other document to be delivered hereunder, including any person authorized by a power of attorney.  Any document delivered hereunder that is signed by a Responsible Officer of a Loan Party will be conclusively presumed to have been authorized by all necessary corporate, partnership or other action on the part of such Loan Party and such Responsible Officer will be conclusively presumed to have acted on behalf of such Loan Party.  Unless the context requires otherwise, each reference herein and in any other Loan Document to a Responsible Officer of a Borrower means and is a reference to a Responsible Officer of Holdings.

 

Restricted Payments ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 6.06.

 

Restricted Subsidiary ” means any Subsidiary of a Person other than an Unrestricted Subsidiary of such Person.  Unless otherwise indicated in this Agreement, all references to Restricted Subsidiaries will mean the Restricted Subsidiaries of Holdings (including the Borrowers).

 

S&P ” means Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services or any successor entity thereto.

 

Sale-Leaseback Transaction ” shall mean any arrangements with any Person providing for the leasing by Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries of real or personal property which has been or is to be sold or transferred by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary to such Person or to any other Person to whom funds have been or are to be advanced by such Person in connection therewith.

 

Sanctioned Country ” means a country or territory which is itself the subject or target of a comprehensive economic or financial sanctions program maintained by any Sanctions Authority under any Anti-Terrorism Law, including, without limitation, as of the date of this

 

57



 

Agreement, the Crimea region of Ukraine, Cuba (except in respect of Canadian Subsidiaries), Iran, North Korea, Sudan and Syria.

 

Sanctioned Person ” means (a) any Person listed in any sanctions list maintained by any Sanctions Authority, (b) a Canadian Blocked Person, or (c) any Person operating, organized or resident in a Sanctioned Country, or (c) any Person owned or controlled by any such Person set forth in clauses (a), (b) or (c) above.

 

Sanctions ” means all economic or financial sanctions or trade embargoes imposed, administered or enforced from time to time by any Sanctions Authority.

 

Sanctions Authority ” means the United States, Canada, the United Nations Security Council, the European Union (and its member states), the United Kingdom and the respective governmental institutions of any of the foregoing, including, without limitation, Her Majesty’s Treasury, OFAC, the U.S. Department of State, and any other agency of the U.S. or Canadian government.

 

Screen Rate ” means, for any day and time, with respect to any Eurocurrency Borrowing for any applicable currency and for any Interest Period, the London interbank offered rate as administered by ICE Benchmark Administration (or any other Person that takes over the administration of such rate for [U.S. Dollars] for a period equal in length to such Interest Period as displayed on such day and time on pages LIBOR01 or LIBOR02 of the Reuters screen that displays such rate (or, in the event such rate does not appear on a Reuters page or screen, on any successor or substitute page on such screen that displays such rate, or on the appropriate page of such other information service that publishes such rate from time to time as selected by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion); provided that if the Screen Rate shall be less than zero, such rate shall be deemed to zero for the purposes of this Agreement.

 

SEC ” means the Securities and Exchange Commission or any successor thereto.

 

Secured Parties ” means the collective reference to the Administrative Agent, the Collateral Agent, the Lenders and any Qualified Counterparty.

 

Securities Act ” means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

 

Security Documents ” means the collective reference to the US Collateral Agreement, the Mortgages, the Intellectual Property Security Agreements, those certain foreign security and pledge agreements listed on Schedule 1.01(3) , which shall include the French Security Documents, (as such schedule may be amended or supplemented from time to time in accordance with the Guaranty and Security Principles), and each of the security agreements and other instruments and documents executed and delivered by any Loan Party pursuant thereto or pursuant to Section 5.10.

 

Senior Notes ” means (i) the notes due [    ] issued by the Borrowers pursuant to the Senior Notes Indenture.

 

58



 

Senior Notes Documents ” means the Senior Notes, the Senior Notes Indenture and all other documents evidencing, guaranteeing or otherwise governing the terms of the Senior Notes.

 

Senior Notes Indenture ” means that certain Indenture, dated as of [    ], 2017, among the Borrowers, the guarantors party thereto and [        ], as trustee (as amended, restated, supplemented, or otherwise modified from time to time) and any supplemental indenture or additional indenture to be entered into with respect to the Senior Notes.

 

Shared Dollar Basket ” means, at any time, the greater of (a) $150 million and (b) 6.0% of Consolidated Total Assets at such time, minus the aggregate amount of (a) Investments which have been made prior to such time since the Closing Date in reliance on Section 6.04(29) and which remain outstanding immediately prior to such time, (b) Restricted Payments which have been made prior to such time since the Closing Date in reliance on Section 6.06(17) and (c) payments with respect to any Junior Financing which have been made prior to such time since the Closing Date in reliance on Section 6.09(2)(c).

 

Spain ” means the Kingdom of Spain.

 

Spanish Civil Code ” means the Spanish Civil Code approved by Royal Decree on 24 July 1889, as amended from time to time.

 

Spanish Civil Procedure Law ” means Law 1/2000 of 7 January ( Ley 1/2000, de 7 de enero, de Enjuiciamiento Civil ), as amended from time to time.

 

Spanish Companies Act ” means Royal Legislative Decree 1/2010 ( Real Decreto Legislativo 1/2010, de 2 de julio, por el que se aprueba el texto refundido de la Ley de Sociedades de Capital ), as amended from time to time.

 

Spanish Insolvency Law ” means the Spanish Insolvency Law 22/2003, dated 9 July ( Ley 22/2003, de 9 de julio, Concursal ), as amended from time to time.

 

Spanish Loan Party ” means any Loan Party incorporated under the laws of Spain.

 

Spanish Public Document ” means, a “ documento público ”, being either an “ escritura pública ” or a “ póliza o efecto intervenido por fedatario público ”.

 

Spanish Royal Decree 5/2005 ” means the Royal Decree Law 5/2005 of 11 March 2005 of urgent reforms for the productivity and for the improvement of the public sector contracting ( Real Decreto Ley 5/2005, de 11 de marzo, de reformas urgentes para el impulso de la productividad y para la mejora de la contratación pública ), as amended from time to time.

 

Spanish Security Documents ” means the documents referred to as such in Schedule 1.01(3) and any other Security Document governed by the laws of Spain to be entered into by a Loan Party pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement.

 

59



 

Special Closing Date Payments ” means Restricted Payments and/or cash payments to Huntsman and its Subsidiaries or other distributions in cash in respect of, or redemption, retirement, acquisition, cancellation or termination in respect of any indebtedness owing to Huntsman and its Subsidiaries in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed the net proceeds of the Term Loans and the Senior Notes.

 

Specified Event of Default ” means any Event of Default under Section 8.01(2), 8.01(3) (solely with respect to payments of interest and Fees), 8.01(8) or 8.01(9).

 

Specified Foreign Jurisdiction ” means Canada, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, the United Kingdom and Finland.

 

Specified Hedge Agreement ” means any Hedge Agreement entered into or assumed between or among Holdings, the Borrowers or any other Subsidiary and any Qualified Counterparty and designated by the Qualified Counterparty and Holdings in writing to the Administrative Agent as a “Specified Hedge Agreement” under this Agreement (but only if such Hedge Agreement has not been designated as a “Specified Hedge Agreement” under the ABL Credit Agreement) and it being understood that one notice of such designation with respect to a specified ISDA Master Agreement may designate all transactions thereunder as being a “Specific Hedging Agreement”, without the need for separate notices for each individual transaction thereunder).

 

Specified Hedge Obligations ” means all amounts owing to any Qualified Counterparty under any Specified Hedge Agreement.

 

Specified Transaction ” means any Investment (including any Limited Condition Acquisition), disposition, incurrence or repayment of Indebtedness, Restricted Payment, Subsidiary designation, Incremental Facility that by the terms of this Agreement requires such test to be calculated on a “Pro Forma Basis”; provided that any increase in the Commitments (including, for this purpose, any Commitment in respect of any Incremental Term Loan or Extended Term Loan) above the amount of Commitments in effect on the Closing Date, for purposes of this “Specified Transaction” definition, shall be deemed to be fully drawn; provided , further , that, at Holdings’ election, any such Specified Transaction (other than a Restricted Payment) having an aggregate value of less than $5 million shall not be calculated on a “Pro Forma Basis.”

 

Specified UK Plans ” means the Tioxide Europe Ltd Pension Plan, the Huntsman Global Pension Scheme and the Tioxide Europe Ltd Non-Qualified Plan.

 

Standard Securitization Undertakings ” means representations, warranties, covenants, indemnities and Guarantees of performance entered into by Holdings or any Subsidiary of Holdings that a Responsible Officer of Holdings has determined in good faith to be customary in a Receivables Financing including those relating to the servicing of the assets of a Receivables Subsidiary, it being understood that any Receivables Repurchase Obligation will be deemed to be a Standard Securitization Undertaking.

 

60


 

Statutory Reserve Rate ” means a fraction (expressed as a decimal), the numerator of which is the number one and the denominator of which is the number one minus the aggregate of the maximum reserve percentage (including any marginal, special, emergency or supplemental reserves) expressed as a decimal established by the Board to which the Administrative Agent is subject with respect to the Adjusted LIBO Rate, for eurocurrency funding (currently referred to as “Eurocurrency Liabilities” in Regulation D of the Board).  Such reserve percentage shall include those imposed pursuant to such Regulation D.  Eurocurrency Loans shall be deemed to constitute eurocurrency funding and to be subject to such reserve requirements without benefit of or credit for proration, exemptions or offsets that may be available from time to time to any Lender under such Regulation D or any comparable regulation.  The Statutory Reserve Rate shall be adjusted automatically on and as of the effective date of any change in any reserve percentage.

 

Subsidiary ” means, with respect to any Person, any corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other entity of which (1) Equity Interests having ordinary voting power (other than Equity Interests having such power only by reason of the happening of a contingency) to elect a majority of the Board of Directors of such corporation, partnership, limited liability company or other entity are at the time owned by such Person; or (2) more than 50.0% of the Equity Interests are at the time owned by such Person.  Unless otherwise indicated in this Agreement, all references to Subsidiaries will mean Subsidiaries of Holdings.

 

Subsidiary Loan Parties ” means (1) each Wholly Owned Subsidiary of Holdings (other than the Borrowers) on the Closing Date (other than any Excluded Subsidiary); and (2) each Wholly Owned Subsidiary (other than any Excluded Subsidiary) of Holdings that becomes, or is required to become, a party to the US Collateral Agreement or any other Security Document after the Closing Date pursuant to Section 5.10.

 

Swap Obligation ” means, with respect to any Guarantor, any obligation to pay or perform under any agreement, contract or transaction that constitutes a “swap” within the meaning of section 1a(47) of the Commodity Exchange Act.

 

Syndication Agents ” means Citigroup Global Markets Inc., Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, Barclays Bank PLC, HSBC Securities (USA) Inc., Goldman Sachs Bank USA, PNC Bank, National Association, RBC Capital Markets and SunTrust Bank, each in its capacity as the Syndication Agent.

 

Taxes ” means any and all present or future taxes, levies, imposts, duties, deductions, withholdings (including backup withholding) or similar charges imposed by any Governmental Authority and any and all interest and penalties related thereto.

 

Term Facility ” means the facility and commitments utilized in making Term Loans hereunder.  On the Closing Date, the sole Term Facility is the Initial Term Loan Facility.  Following the establishment of any Incremental Term Loans (other than an increase to an existing Term Facility), Other Term Loans or Extended Term Loans, such Incremental Term Loans, Other Term Loans or Extended Term Loans will be considered a separate Term Facility hereunder.

 

61



 

Term Loan Agent ” means “ Term Loan Agent ” as defined in the Intercreditor Agreement.

 

Term Loan Credit Agreement ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the preamble of this Agreement.

 

Term Loan Installment Date ” means, as the context requires, an Original Term Loan Installment Date, an Incremental Term Loan Installment Date, an Other Term Loan Installment Date or an Extended Term Loan Installment Date.

 

Term Loans ” means the Initial Term Loans, any Incremental Term Loans, any Other Term Loans and any Extended Term Loans, collectively (or if the context so requires, any of them individually).

 

Term Priority Collateral ” means “ Term Loan Priority Collateral ” as defined in the Intercreditor Agreement.

 

Title Company ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.10(2)(b).

 

Title Policy ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 5.10(2)(b).

 

Total Net Leverage Ratio ” means, as of any date, the ratio of Consolidated Total Net Debt as of such date to Consolidated EBITDA for the most recent four fiscal quarter period for which Required Financial Statements have been delivered, calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

Trade Date ” has the meaning assigned to such term in Section 10.04(8)(a).

 

Transaction Documents ” means the ABL Loan Documents, the Senior Notes Documents and the Loan Documents.

 

Transactions ” means, collectively, the transactions contemplated to occur pursuant to the Transaction Documents, including:

 

(1)                                  the consummation of Venator Consolidation Transactions;

 

(1)                                  the execution and delivery of the Loan Documents, the creation of the Liens pursuant to the Security Documents and the initial borrowings hereunder;

 

(2)                                  the execution and delivery of the ABL Loan Documents, the creation of the Liens pursuant to the ABL Security Documents and the initial borrowings under the ABL Credit Agreement;

 

(3)                                  the execution and delivery of the Senior Notes Documents and the issuance of the Senior Notes;

 

(4)                                  the Initial Venator Distribution Transaction;

 

(5)                                  the Huntsman Release;

 

62



 

(6)                                  the Special Closing Date Payment; and

 

(7)                                  the payment of all fees, costs and expenses in connection with the foregoing.

 

Type ” means, when used in respect of any Term Loan or Borrowing, the Rate by reference to which interest on such Term Loan or on the Term Loans comprising such Borrowing is determined.  For purposes hereof, the term “Rate” means Adjusted LIBO Rate or ABR, as applicable.

 

UK ” means the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

 

UK Loan Party ” means any Loan Party incorporated in England and Wales.

 

UK Security Documents ” means the documents referred to as such in Schedule 1.01(3) and any other Security Document governed by English law to be entered into by a Loan Party pursuant to or in connection with this Agreement.

 

Uniform Commercial Code ” or “ UCC ” means the Uniform Commercial Code as the same may from time to time be in effect in the State of New York or the Uniform Commercial Code (or similar code or statute) of another jurisdiction, to the extent it may be required to apply to any item or items of Collateral.

 

Unrestricted Cash ” means, as of any date, all cash and Cash Equivalents of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries as of such date that would not appear as “restricted” on the Required Financial Statements, determined on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP, determined based upon the most recent quarter-end financial statements available internally as of the date of determination, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

Unrestricted Subsidiary ” means any Subsidiary of Holdings specified on Schedule 1.01(1)  as of the Closing Date and any other Subsidiary of Holdings (other than the Borrowers) designated by Holdings as an Unrestricted Subsidiary hereunder after the Closing Date by written notice to the Administrative Agent, unless in each case such Subsidiary has been subsequently re-designated as a Restricted Subsidiary by Holdings hereunder; provided that Holdings will only be permitted to so designate a new Unrestricted Subsidiary after the Closing Date or subsequently re-designate any such Unrestricted Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary (by written notice to the Administrative Agent) if:

 

(1)                                  no Event of Default is continuing; provided , that if such Subsidiary is being designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in connection with a Limited Condition Acquisition, at Holdings’ option, the date of determination of such condition shall be the LCA Test Date;

 

(2)                                  such designation or re-designation would not cause an Event of Default; and

 

(3)                                  compliance with a maximum Total Net Leverage Ratio of 3.20 to 1.00, determined on a Pro Forma Basis; provided , that if such Subsidiary is being designated as an Unrestricted Subsidiary in connection with a Limited Condition Acquisition, at Holdings’ option, the date of determination of such condition shall be the LCA Test Date.

 

63



 

The designation of any Restricted Subsidiary as an Unrestricted Subsidiary will constitute an Investment for purposes of Section 6.04.  The redesignation of any Unrestricted Subsidiary as a Restricted Subsidiary will be deemed to be an incurrence at the time of such designation of Indebtedness of such Unrestricted Subsidiary and the Liens on the assets of such Unrestricted Subsidiary, in each case outstanding on the date of such redesignation.

 

USA PATRIOT Act ” means the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (Title III of Pub. L. No. 107-56 (signed into law October 26, 2001)).

 

U.S. Person ” means any Person that is a “United States Person” as defined in Section 7701(a)(30) of the Code.

 

US Borrower ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.

 

US Collateral Agreement ” means the Term Loan Collateral Agreement dated as of the Closing Date, among the Loan Parties that are Domestic Subsidiaries and the Collateral Agent, as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

US Excluded Assets ” means “ Excluded Assets ” as defined in the US Collateral Agreement.

 

US Excluded Equity Interests ” means “ Excluded Equity Interests ” as defined in the US Collateral Agreement.

 

US Loan Parties ” means the US Borrower and each Subsidiary Loan Party that is a Domestic Subsidiary.

 

US Pledged Collateral ” means “ Pledged Collateral ” as defined in the US Collateral Agreement.

 

Venator Consolidation Transactions ” has the meaning assigned to such term in the recitals hereto.

 

Voting Stock ” means, as of any date, the Capital Stock of any Person that is at the time entitled to vote (without regard to the occurrence of any contingency) in the election of the Board of Directors of such Person.

 

Weighted Average Life to Maturity ” means, when applied to any Indebtedness as of any date, the number of years obtained by dividing (1) the sum of the products obtained by multiplying (a) the amount of each then remaining installment, sinking fund, serial maturity or other required payment of principal (excluding nominal amortization), including payment at final maturity, in respect thereof by (b) the number of years (calculated to the nearest 1/12) that will elapse between such date and the making of such payment; by (2) the then outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness.

 

Wholly Owned Subsidiary ” means, with respect to any Person, a subsidiary of such Person, all of the Equity Interests of which (other than directors’ qualifying shares or

 

64



 

nominee or other similar shares required pursuant to applicable law) are owned by such Person or another Wholly Owned Subsidiary of such Person.  Unless otherwise indicated in this Agreement, all references to Wholly Owned Subsidiaries will mean Wholly Owned Subsidiaries of Holdings.

 

Withdrawal Liability ” means liability to a Multiemployer Plan as a result of a complete or partial withdrawal from such Multiemployer Plan, as such terms are defined in Part I of Subtitle E of Title IV of ERISA.

 

Working Capital ” means, with respect to Holdings and its Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis as of any date of determination, Current Assets at such date of determination minus Current Liabilities at such date of determination; provided that, for purposes of calculating Excess Cash Flow, increases or decreases in Working Capital will be calculated without regard to any changes in Current Assets or Current Liabilities as a result of (a) reclassification after the Closing Date in accordance with GAAP of assets or liabilities, as applicable, between current and non-current or (b) the effects of purchase accounting.

 

Write-Down and Conversion Powers ” means, with respect to any EEA Resolution Authority, the write-down and conversion powers of such EEA Resolution Authority from time to time under the Bail-In Legislation for the applicable EEA Member Country, which write-down and conversion powers are described in the EU Bail-In Legislation Schedule.

 

SECTION 1.02.    Terms Generally .  The definitions set forth or referred to in Section 1.01 will apply equally to both the singular and plural forms of the terms defined.  Whenever the context may require, any pronoun will include the corresponding masculine, feminine and neuter forms.  Unless the context requires otherwise,

 

(1)                                  the words “include,” “includes” and “including” will be deemed to be followed by the phrase “without limitation;”

 

(2)                                  in the computation of periods of time from a specified date to a later specified date, the word “from” means “from and including;” the words “to” and “until” each mean “to but excluding” and the word “through” means “to and including;”

 

(3)                                  the word “will” will be construed to have the same meaning and effect as the word “shall;”

 

(4)                                  the word “incur” will be construed to mean incur, create, issue, assume, become liable in respect of or suffer to exist (and the words “incurred” and “incurrence” will have correlative meanings);

 

(5)                                  any reference to any Person will be construed to include such Person’s legal successors and permitted assigns; and

 

(6)                                  the words “asset” and “property” will be construed to have the same meaning and effect.

 

All references herein to Articles, Sections, Exhibits and Schedules will be deemed references to Articles and Sections of, and Exhibits and Schedules to, this Agreement unless the

 

65



 

context otherwise requires.  Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, any reference in this Agreement to any Loan Document or organizational document of the Loan Parties means such document as amended, restated, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time (subject to any restrictions on such amendments, supplements or modifications set forth herein or in any other Loan Document).  Any reference to any law will include all statutory and regulatory provisions consolidating, amending, replacing or interpreting such law and any reference to any law or regulation means, unless otherwise specified, such law or regulation as amended, modified or supplemented from time to time.  Whenever this Agreement refers to the “knowledge” of any Loan Party, such reference will be construed to mean the knowledge of the chief executive officer, president, chief financial officer, treasurer or controller or other Financial Officer or Responsible Officer of such Person.

 

For purposes of any Collateral located in the Province of Quebec or charged by any deed of hypothec (or any other Loan Document) and for all other purposes pursuant to which the interpretation or construction of a Loan Document may be subject to the laws of the Province of Quebec or a court or tribunal exercising jurisdiction in the Province of Québec, (q) “personal property” shall be deemed to include “movable property”, (r) “real property” shall be deemed to include “immovable property”, (s) “tangible property” shall be deemed to include “corporeal property”, (t) “intangible property” shall be deemed to include “incorporeal property”, (u) “security interest” and “mortgage” shall be deemed to include a “hypothec”, (v) all references to filing, registering or recording under the UCC or the PPSA shall be deemed to include publication under the Civil Code of Québec, (w) all references to “perfection” of or “perfected” Liens shall be deemed to include a reference to the “opposability” of such Liens to third parties, (x) any “right of offset”, “right of setoff” or similar expression shall be deemed to include a “right of compensation”, (y) “goods” shall be deemed to include “corporeal movable property” other than chattel paper, documents of title, instruments, money and securities, and (z) an “agent” shall be deemed to include a “mandatary”.

 

SECTION 1.03.    Accounting Terms; GAAP .  Except as otherwise expressly provided herein, all terms of an accounting or financial nature will be construed in accordance with GAAP, as in effect from time to time; provided that, notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, all accounting or financial terms used herein will be construed, and all financial computations pursuant hereto will be made, without giving effect to any election under Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification 825-10 (or any other Statement of Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification having a similar effect) to value any Indebtedness or other liabilities of Holdings or any Subsidiary at “fair value,” as defined therein.  In the event that any Accounting Change (as defined below) occurs and such change results in a change in the method of calculation of financial covenants, standards or terms in this Agreement, then upon the written request of Holdings or the Administrative Agent (acting upon the request of the Required Lenders), Holdings, the Administrative Agent and the Lenders will enter into good faith negotiations in order to amend such provisions of this Agreement so as to equitably reflect such Accounting Change with the desired result that the criteria for evaluating Holdings’ financial condition will be the same after such Accounting Change as if such Accounting Change had not occurred; provided that provisions of this Agreement in effect on the date of such Accounting Change will remain in effect until the effective date of such amendment.  “ Accounting Change ” means

 

66



 

(1) any change in accounting principles required by the promulgation of any rule, regulation, pronouncement or opinion by the Financial Accounting Standards Board of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants or (2) any change in the application of GAAP by Holdings.

 

SECTION 1.04.    Effectuation of Transfers .  Each of the representations and warranties of Holdings and the Borrowers contained in this Agreement (and all corresponding definitions) is made after giving effect to the Transactions on the Closing Date, unless the context otherwise requires.

 

SECTION 1.05.    Currencies .  Unless otherwise specifically set forth in this Agreement, monetary amounts are in Dollars.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, no Default or Event of Default will arise as a result of any limitation or threshold set forth in Dollars being exceeded solely as a result of changes in currency exchange rates.

 

SECTION 1.06.    Required Financial Statements .  With respect to the determination of the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio, the Total Net Leverage Ratio, the Interest Coverage Ratio or under any other applicable provision of the Loan Documents (including the definition of Immaterial Subsidiary) made on or prior to the date on which Required Financial Statements have been delivered for the first fiscal quarter ending after the Closing Date, such calculation will be determined for the period of four consecutive fiscal quarters most recently ended prior to the Closing Date, and calculated on a Pro Forma Basis.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, for purposes of determining compliance with any test contained in this Agreement with respect to any period during which any Specified Transaction occurs, the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio, the Total Net Leverage Ratio, the Interest Coverage Ratio or under any other applicable provision of the Loan Documents (including the definition of Immaterial Subsidiary) shall be calculated with respect to such period and such Specified Transaction on a Pro Forma Basis.

 

SECTION 1.07.    Certain Calculations and Tests .

 

(a)           Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement or any Loan Document to the contrary, in connection with a Specified Transaction undertaken in connection with the consummation of a Limited Condition Acquisition, when:

 

(i)              determining compliance with any provision of this Agreement which requires the calculation of the First Lien Leverage Ratio, Total Leverage Ratio or the Interest Coverage Ratio;

 

(ii)           determining compliance with representations, warranties, defaults or Events of Default; and

 

(iii)        testing availability under baskets set forth in this agreement (including baskets measured as a percentage of Consolidated Total Assets);

 

the date of determination of whether any such action is permitted hereunder shall, at the option of Holdings (Holdings’ election to exercise such option in connection with any Limited

 

67



 

Condition Acquisition, an “ LCA Election ”), be deemed to be the date the definitive agreements for such Limited Condition Acquisition are entered into (the “ LCA Test Date ”) and if, after such ratios and other provisions are measured on a Pro Forma Basis after giving effect to such Limited Condition Acquisition and the other Specified Transactions to be entered into in connection therewith (including any incurrence of Indebtedness and the use of proceeds thereof) as if they occurred at the beginning of the four consecutive fiscal quarter period being used to calculate such financial ratio ending prior to the LCA Test Date, Holdings could have taken such action on the relevant LCA Test Date in compliance with such ratios and provisions, such provisions shall be deemed to have been complied with.  For the avoidance of doubt, (x) if any of such ratios are exceeded as a result of fluctuations in such ratio (including due to fluctuations in Consolidated EBITDA of Holdings) at or prior to the consummation of the relevant Limited Condition Acquisition, such ratios and other provisions will not be deemed to have been exceeded as a result of such fluctuations solely for purposes of determining whether the Limited Condition Acquisition is permitted hereunder and (y) such ratios and other provisions shall not be tested at the time of consummation of such Limited Condition Acquisition or related Specified Transactions.  If Holdings has made an LCA Election for any Limited Condition Acquisition, then in connection with any subsequent calculation of any ratio or basket availability with respect to any other Specified Transaction on or following the relevant LCA Test Date and prior to the earlier of the date on which such Limited Condition Acquisition is consummated or the date that the definitive agreement for such Limited Condition Acquisition is terminated or expires without consummation of such Limited Condition Acquisition, any such ratio or basket shall be calculated on a Pro Forma Basis assuming such Limited Condition Acquisition and other transactions in connection therewith (including any incurrence of Indebtedness and the use of proceeds thereof) have been consummated.

 

(b)           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, with respect to any amounts incurred or transactions entered into (or consummated) in reliance on a provision of this Agreement under any covenant that does not require compliance with a financial ratio or test (including, without limitation, pro forma compliance with any First Lien Net Leverage Ratio test, Total Net Leverage Ratio test and/or any Interest Coverage Ratio test) (any such amounts, the “ Fixed Amounts ”) substantially concurrently with any amounts incurred or transactions entered into (or consummated) in reliance on a provision of this Agreement under the same covenant as such Fixed Amount that requires compliance with any such financial ratio or test (any such amounts, the “ Incurrence Based Amounts ”), it is understood and agreed that the Fixed Amounts being substantially concurrently incurred (other than, in the case of any Fixed Amounts contained in Section 6.01 or Section 6.02, any refinancings of any Indebtedness that was previously incurred) and any substantially concurrent borrowings under the revolving facility under the ABL Credit Agreement (and any cash proceeds thereof) shall be disregarded in the calculation of the financial ratio or test applicable to the Incurrence-Based Amounts in connection with such substantially concurrent incurrence, except that incurrences of Indebtedness and Liens constituting Fixed Amounts and any substantially concurrent borrowings under the revolving facility under the ABL Credit Agreement shall be taken into account for purposes of any Incurrence Based Amounts under any covenant other than Incurrence Based Amounts contained in Section 6.01 or Section 6.02.

 

68



 

SECTION 1.08.    Disqualified Institutions .

 

Notwithstanding anything in the Loan Documents to the contrary, the Administrative Agent shall not be responsible (or have any liability) for, or have any duty to ascertain, inquire into, monitor or enforce, compliance with the provisions thereof relating to Disqualified Institutions.  Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the Administrative Agent shall not (1) be obligated to ascertain, monitor or inquire as to whether any Lender or participant or prospective Lender or participant is a Disqualified Institution or (2) have any liability with respect to or arising out of any assignment or participation of Term Loans or commitments, or disclosure of confidential information, to any Disqualified Institution.  The list of Disqualified Institutions shall be available to Lenders upon request.

 

SECTION 1.09.    Joint and Several .  The obligations of the Borrowers hereunder and under the Loan Documents shall be joint and several, regardless of which of such Persons receives proceeds of any of the Term Loans or the manner in which the Administrative Agent and/or any Lender accounts for such Term Loans or other extensions of credit on its books and records.  If the obligations of any Borrower in respect of the other Borrowers pursuant to this Section 1.09 would otherwise be held or determined pursuant to any insolvency proceeding to be avoidable, invalid or unenforceable, the amount of such Borrower’s liability shall, without any further action by such other Borrowers or any of the Guarantors or the Lenders, be automatically limited and reduced to the highest amount that is valid and enforceable as determined in such proceeding (the “ Maximum Liability ”).  This Section with respect to the Maximum Liability is intended solely to preserve the rights of the Lenders to the maximum extent not subject to avoidance under applicable law, and no Borrower, nor any Guarantor or any other Person shall have any right or claim under this Section with respect to such Maximum Liability, except to the extent necessary so that the obligations of any Borrower hereunder shall not be rendered voidable under applicable law.  Each Borrower agrees that its obligations pursuant to this Section 1.09 may at any time and from time to time exceed its Maximum Liability without impairing its obligations hereunder or affecting the rights and remedies of the Lenders hereunder, provided that, nothing in this sentence shall be construed to increase any Borrower’s obligations hereunder beyond its Maximum Liability.

 

SECTION 1.10.    Luxembourg terms .  In this Agreement, where it relates to a Luxembourg Loan Party, a reference to:

 

(a)           the articles or certificate of incorporation or formation includes the articles of association ( statuts ) or the restated articles of association (statuts coordonnés ), as the case may be;

 

(b)           an officer, secretary, manager or director includes a gérant or administrateur ;

 

(c)           a winding-up, dissolution or administration includes a Luxembourg Loan Party:

 

(i)            being declared bankrupt ( faillite déclarée );

 

(ii)           being subject to a judicial liquidation ( liquidation judiciaire );

 

(iii)          having filed for controlled management ( gestion contrôlée );

 

69



 

(d)           a moratorium includes a reprieve from payment ( sursis de paiement ) or a concordat préventif de faillite ;

 

(e)           a liquidator, trustee in bankruptcy, judicial custodian, compulsory manager, receiver, administrator receiver, administrator or similar officer includes any:

 

(i)            juge-commissaire or insolvency receiver ( curateur ) appointed under the Luxembourg Commercial Code;

 

(ii)           liquidateur appointed under Articles 141 to 151 (inclusive) of the Luxembourg law dated 10 August 1915 on commercial companies, as amended (the Luxembourg Companies’ Act );

 

(iii)          juge-commissaire or liquidateur appointed under Article 203 of the Luxembourg Companies’ Act;

 

(iv)          commissaire appointed under the Grand-Ducal decree of 24 May 1935 on the controlled management regime or under Articles 593 to 614 (inclusive) of the Luxembourg Commercial Code; and

 

(f)            juge délégué appointed under the Luxembourg act of 14 April 1886 on the composition with creditors to avoid bankruptcy, as amended.

 

SECTION 1.11.    French terms

 

In this Agreement, where it relates to a French Loan Party, a reference to:

 

(a)           an “administration”, “insolvency”, “dissolution” or “winding-up” includes (i) a French Loan Party is unable or admits inability to pay any of its debts (in full or a substantial part) as they fall due or suspends making payments on any of its debts (in full or a substantial part) when they become due, (ii) a French Loan Party is or becomes in cessation des paiements within the meaning of article L.631-1 of the French Code de commerce or encounters difficulties that it is not able to overcome within the meaning of article L.620-1 of the French Code de commerce , or becomes insolvent under any applicable insolvency law or (iii) a moratorium is declared in respect of any indebtedness of a French Loan Party or a French Loan Party is subject to alert procedure ( procédure d’alerte ) by its statutory auditors in accordance with article L.234-1, L.234-2 or L.612-3 of the French Code de commerce;

 

(b)           an “attachment” includes a saisie ;

 

(c)           a “consolidation” or an “amalgation” includes in relation to any company any contribution of part of its business in consideration of shares ( apport partiel d’actifs ) and any demerger ( scission ) implemented in accordance with articles L.236 1 to L.236 24 of the French Code de commerce ;

 

(d)           “financial assistance” has the meaning stated in article L.225-216 of the French Code de commerce or in any other foreign law on financial assistance that is mandatorily applicable to a French Loan Party;

 

70


 

(e)           “gross negligence” includes faute lourde ;

 

(f)            a “guarantee” means any type of sûreté personnelle ;

 

(g)           “insolvency proceeding” means (i) any corporate action or legal proceeding is taken by a French Loan Party in relation to (A) the suspension of payments, a moratorium of all or any indebtedness, dissolution, the opening of proceedings for sauvegarde (including, for the avoidance of doubt, sauvegarde accélérée and sauvegarde financière accélérée ), redressement judiciaire or liquidation judiciaire or reorganisation (in the context of a mandat ad hoc or of a conciliation or otherwise) of a French Loan Party other than a solvent liquidation or reorganisation, (B) the appointment of a liquidator, receiver, administrator, administrative receiver, temporary administrator, mandataire ad-hoc , conciliateur or other person exercising similar functions in respect of a French Loan Party or in respect of all or any of their respective assets, except in relation to the appointment of a liquidator in case of an amicable dissolution ( liquidation amiable ) of a French Loan Party, or (C) the enforcement of any Lien over any assets of any member of the group occurs and such enforcement is likely to have a Material Adverse Effect, (ii) a French Loan Party commences proceedings for the appointment of a mandataire ad hoc or the opening of a procedure of conciliation in accordance with articles L. 611-3 to L. 611-15 of the French Code de commerce, (iii) a judgment opening proceedings for sauvegarde (including, for the avoidance of doubt, sauvegarde accélérée and sauvegarde financière accélérée ), redressement judiciaire or liquidation judiciaire or ordering a cession totale ou partielle de l’entreprise is rendered in relation to a French Loan Party in accordance with articles L.620-1 to L.670-8 of the French Code de commerce, (iv) any procedure, judgment or step is taken, which has effects that are substantially the same as those referred to in paragraphs (i) through (iii) above

 

(h)           a “matured obligation” means any créanse certaine, liquide et exigible ;

 

(i)            “merger’ includes any fusion implemented in accordance with articles L.236 1 to L.236 24 of the French Code de commerce ;

 

(j)            “trustee, fiduciary and fiduciary duty” has in each case the meaning given to such term under any applicable law;

 

(k)           a “person being unable to pay its debts” means that person being in a state of cessation des paiements in accordance with the French Code de commerce ;

 

(l)            a “receiver” includes an administrateur judiciaire , a mandataire ad hoc  or a conciliateur ;

 

(m)          “wilful misconduct” means dol .

 

SECTION 1.12.    Spanish terms.

 

In this Agreement, where it relates to a Spanish Loan Party or Spanish Security Documents, a reference to:

 

71



 

(a)           a “winding-up”, “administration” or “insolvency” or “dissolution” means a liquidación, disolución, procedimiento concursal, concurso as defined in Spanish Insolvency Law or the declaration of insolvency ( declaración de concurso ), including any solicitud de inicio del procedimiento de concurso voluntario , the request of declaration of insolvency by a third party ( solicitud de concurso por acreedores ) which results in the declaration of insolvency proceedings by the relevant court ( declaración de concurso necesario ) and “insolvency proceeding” means a declaración de concurso , necessary or voluntary ( necesario o voluntario ) and any step or proceeding related to a concurso under the Spanish Insolvency Act in connection with or as a result of any financial difficulty (excluding when such proceeding is made with any Lender) (including, without limitation, any petition filed under article 5 bis or article 231 of the Spanish Insolvency Law excluding when such proceeding is made with any Lender);

 

(b)           “liquidator”, “receiver”, “administrative receiver” or “administrator” means mediador concursal, administrador del concurso, administración concursal or any other person or entity performing the same function;

 

(c)           a “composition”, “compromise”, “assignment” or similar arrangement with any creditor means a convenio or acuerdo extrajudicial de refinanciación for the purposes of Spanish Insolvency Law;

 

(d)           a “compulsory manager”, “receiver” or “administrator” means an administrador concursal, liquidador or any other person appointed as a result of any proceedings described in paragraphs (a) to (c) above;

 

(e)           “financial assistance” has the meaning stated in Chapter VI of Title IV of the Spanish Companies Act or in any other foreign law on financial assistance that is mandatorily applicable to a Spanish Loan Party;

 

(f)            a “guarantee” means any garantía, aval or garantía a primer requerimiento ;

 

(g)           a “matured obligation” means any crédito líquído, vencido y exigible ;

 

(h)           a “person being unable to pay its debts” means that person being in a state of concurso as defined in Spanish Insolvency Law;

 

(i)            a grant, creation or transfer of a “security interest” or a “collateral” means any in rem or garantía real and any transfer by way of security (including any financial collateral under Spanish law including the security granted under Spanish Royal Decree 5/2005);

 

(j)            “trustee”, “fiduciary” and “fiduciary duty” has in each case the meaning given to such term under any applicable law;

 

(k)           “set-off” would include to the extent legally possible the rights to compensate under Spanish Royal Decree 5/2005; and

 

(l)            “wilful misconduct” means dolo .

 

72



 

ARTICLE II

 

The Credits

 

SECTION 2.01.    Term Loans and Borrowings .

 

(1)                                  Subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, each Initial Term Loan Lender severally agrees to make to the Borrowers the Initial Term Loans denominated in Dollars equal to such Initial Term Loan Lender’s Initial Term Loan Commitment on the Closing Date.  The failure of any Lender to make any Term Loan required to be made by it will not relieve any other Lender of its obligations hereunder; provided that the Commitments of the Lenders are several and no Lender will be responsible for any other Lender’s failure to make Term Loans as required.  Amounts paid or prepaid in respect of Term Loans may not be reborrowed.

 

(2)                                  Subject to Sections 2.04(7) and 2.11, each Borrowing will be comprised entirely of ABR Loans or Eurocurrency Loans as any of the Borrowers may request in accordance herewith.  Each Lender at its option may make any ABR Loan or Eurocurrency Loan by causing any domestic or foreign branch or Affiliate of such Lender to make such Term Loan; provided that any exercise of such option will not affect the obligation of the Borrowers to repay such Term Loan in accordance with the terms of this Agreement, and such Lender will not be entitled to any amounts payable under Section 2.12 or 2.14 solely in respect of increased costs resulting from, and existing at the time of, such exercise.

 

(3)                                  Notwithstanding any other provision of this Agreement, the Borrowers will not be entitled to request, or to elect to convert or continue, any Borrowing if the Interest Period requested with respect thereto would end after the Maturity Date.

 

SECTION 2.02.    Request for Borrowing .

 

Any of the Borrowers will deliver to the Administrative Agent a Borrowing Request not later than:  (a) in the case of an ABR Borrowing, 11:00 a.m., New York City time, one Business Day prior to the anticipated date of Borrowing (or such later time as the Administrative Agent may agree in its sole discretion) or (b) in the case of a Eurocurrency Borrowing, 11:00 a.m., New York City time, three Business Days prior to the anticipated date of Borrowing (or such later time as the Administrative Agent may agree in its sole discretion), requesting that the Lenders make Term Loans on such date of Borrowing.  The Borrowing Request must specify:

 

(1)                                  the principal amount of the Term Loans of each Class to be borrowed;

 

(2)                                  the requested date of the Borrowing (which will be a Business Day);

 

(3)                                  the Type of the Term Loans of each Class to be borrowed;

 

(4)                                  in the case of a Eurocurrency Borrowing, the initial Interest Period to be applicable thereto, which will be a period contemplated by the definition of the term “Interest Period;” and

 

73



 

(5)                                  the location and number of such Borrower’s account to which funds are to be disbursed.

 

If no election as to the Type of Borrowing is specified in the applicable Borrowing Request, then the Borrowing shall be an ABR Borrowing.  If no Interest Period with respect to any Eurocurrency Borrowing is specified in the applicable Borrowing Request, then such Borrower will be deemed to have selected an Interest Period of one-month’s duration.  Upon receipt of such Borrowing Request, the Administrative Agent will promptly notify each Lender thereof.  The proceeds of the Term Loans requested under this Section 2.02 will be disbursed by the Administrative Agent in immediately available funds by wire transfer to such bank account or accounts as designated by such Borrower in the Borrowing Request.

 

SECTION 2.03.    Funding of Borrowings .

 

(1)                                  Each Lender will make each Term Loan to be made by it hereunder on the proposed date thereof by wire transfer of immediately available funds by 10:00 a.m., New York City time, on the date of such Borrowing, to the account of the Administrative Agent most recently designated by it for such purpose by notice to the Lenders.  The Administrative Agent will make such Term Loans available to the Borrower thereunder by promptly crediting the amounts so received, in like funds, to an account of such Borrower as specified in the Borrowing Request (or as otherwise directed by the Borrower).

 

(2)                                  Unless the Administrative Agent has received notice from a Lender prior to the proposed date of any Borrowing that such Lender will not make available to the Administrative Agent such Lender’s share of such Borrowing, the Administrative Agent may assume that such Lender has made such share available on such date in accordance with paragraph (1) of this Section 2.03 and may, in reliance upon such assumption, make available to such Borrower a corresponding amount.  In such event, if a Lender has not in fact made its share of the applicable Borrowing available to the Administrative Agent, then the applicable Lender and such Borrower severally agree to pay to the Administrative Agent, forthwith on demand (without duplication) such corresponding amount with interest thereon, for each day from and including the date such amount is made available to such Borrower to but excluding the date of payment to the Administrative Agent at (a) in the case of such Lender, the greater of (i) the Federal Funds Rate and (ii) a rate determined by the Administrative Agent in accordance with banking industry rules on interbank compensation or (b) in the case of such Borrower, the interest rate applicable to ABR Loans at such time.  If such Lender pays such amount to the Administrative Agent then such amount will constitute such Lender’s Term Loan included in such Borrowing.

 

SECTION 2.04.    Interest Elections .

 

(1)                                  Each Borrowing initially will be of the Type specified in the applicable Borrowing Request and, in the case of a Eurocurrency Borrowing, will have an initial Interest Period as specified in such Borrowing Request.  Thereafter, the Borrower thereunder may elect to convert such Borrowing to a different Type or to continue such Borrowing and, in the case of a Eurocurrency Borrowing, may elect Interest Periods therefor, all as provided in this Section 2.04.  Such Borrower may elect different options with respect to different

 

74



 

portions of the affected Borrowing, in which case each such portion will be allocated ratably among the Lenders holding the Term Loans comprising such Borrowing, and the Term Loans comprising each such portion will be considered a separate Borrowing; provided that the Term Loans comprising any Borrowing will be in an aggregate principal amount that is an integral multiple of $500,000 and not less than $1,000,000; provided , further , that there shall not be more than twelve Eurocurrency Borrowings outstanding hereunder at any time.

 

(2)                                  To make an election pursuant to this Section 2.04 following the initial date of Borrowing, such Borrower will notify the Administrative Agent of such election by telephone (a) in the case of an election to convert to or continue a Eurocurrency Borrowing, not later than 1:00 p.m., New York City time, three Business Days before the effective date of such election or (b) in the case of an election to convert to or continue an ABR Borrowing, not later than 1:00 p.m., New York City time, on the date of such election ( provided that , notwithstanding the foregoing, to make an election to convert any Eurocurrency Borrowing to an ABR Borrowing prior to the end of the effective Interest Period of such Eurocurrency Borrowing, such Borrower must notify the Administrative Agent not later than 1:00 p.m., three Business Days before the effective date of such election.  Each such telephonic Interest Election Request will be confirmed promptly by hand delivery, facsimile transmission or e-mail to the Administrative Agent of a written Interest Election Request substantially in the form of Exhibit D (or such other form as may be approved by the Administrative Agent (including any form on an electronic platform or electronic transmission system as shall be approved by the Administrative Agent)) and signed by such Borrower.

 

(3)                                  Each telephonic and written Interest Election Request will be irrevocable and will specify the following information:

 

(a)                                  the Borrowing to which such Interest Election Request applies and, if different options are being elected with respect to different portions thereof, the portions thereof to be allocated to each resulting Borrowing (in which case the information to be specified pursuant to clauses (c) and (d) below will be specified for each resulting Borrowing);

 

(b)                                  the effective date of the election made pursuant to such Interest Election Request, which will be a Business Day;

 

(c)                                   whether the resulting Borrowing is to be an ABR Borrowing or a Eurocurrency Borrowing; and

 

(d)                                  if the resulting Borrowing is a Eurocurrency Borrowing, the Interest Period to be applicable thereto after giving effect to such election, which will be a period contemplated by the definition of “Interest Period.”

 

(4)                                  If any such Interest Election Request requests a Eurocurrency Borrowing but does not specify an Interest Period, then such Borrower will be deemed to have selected a Eurocurrency Borrowing having an Interest Period of one month’s duration.

 

75



 

(5)                                  Promptly following receipt of an Interest Election Request, the Administrative Agent will advise each applicable Lender of the details thereof and of such Lender’s portion of each resulting Borrowing.

 

(6)                                  If such Borrower fails to deliver a timely Interest Election Request with respect to a Eurocurrency Borrowing prior to the end of the Interest Period applicable thereto, then, unless such Borrowing is repaid as provided herein, at the end of such Interest Period such Borrowing will be automatically converted into an ABR Borrowing.

 

(7)                                  Any portion of a Borrowing maturing or required to be repaid in less than one month may not be converted into or continued as a Eurocurrency Borrowing.

 

(8)                                  Notwithstanding any contrary provision hereof, if an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and the Administrative Agent, at the written request (including a request through electronic means) of the Required Lenders, so notifies such Borrower, then, so long as such Event of Default is continuing, (a) no outstanding Borrowing may be converted to or continued as a Eurocurrency Borrowing and (b) unless repaid, each Eurocurrency Borrowing will be converted to an ABR Borrowing at the end of the Interest Period applicable thereto.

 

SECTION 2.05.    Promise to Pay; Evidence of Debt .

 

(1)                                  Each Borrower hereby unconditionally promises to pay to the Administrative Agent for the account of each Lender the then unpaid principal amount of each Term Loan of such Lender as provided in Section 2.06.

 

(2)                                  Each Lender will maintain in accordance with its usual practice an account or accounts evidencing the Indebtedness of each Borrower to such Lender resulting from each Term Loan made by such Lender, including the amounts of principal and interest payable and paid to such Lender from time to time hereunder.

 

(3)                                  The Administrative Agent will maintain accounts in which it will record (a) the amount of each Term Loan made hereunder, the Type thereof and the Interest Period (if any) applicable thereto, (b) the amount of any principal or interest due and payable or to become due and payable from each Borrower to each Lender hereunder and (c) any amount received by the Administrative Agent hereunder for the account of the Lenders and each Lender’s share thereof.

 

(4)                                  The entries made in the accounts maintained pursuant to paragraph (2) or (3) of this Section 2.05 will be prima facie evidence of the existence and amounts of the obligations recorded therein; provided that the failure of any Lender or the Administrative Agent to maintain such accounts or any error therein will not in any manner affect the obligation of each Borrower to repay the Term Loans in accordance with the terms of this Agreement.

 

(5)                                  Any Lender may request that Term Loans made by it be evidenced by a promissory note (a “ Note ”).  Upon the written request of any Lender (including a request made through

 

76



 

the Administrative Agent), the applicable Borrower shall promptly execute and deliver to such Lender a Note payable to such Lender, which shall evidence such Lender’s Loans in addition to such accounts or records. The Term Loans evidenced by such Note and interest thereon will at all times (including after assignment pursuant to Section 10.04) be represented by one or more Notes in such form payable to the payee named therein (or, if requested by such payee, to such payee and its registered assigns).

 

SECTION 2.06.    Repayment of Term Loans .

 

(1)                                  The Borrowers will repay to the Administrative Agent for the ratable account of the Lenders of each applicable Class on the last Business Day of each fiscal quarter of Holdings, commencing with the last Business Day of the first full fiscal quarter of Holdings ending after the Closing Date (each such date being referred to as an “ Original Term Loan Installment Date ”), an aggregate principal amount equal to  0.25% of the aggregate principal amount of the Initial Term Loans outstanding on the Closing Date, which payments will be reduced as a result of the application of prepayments of Term Loans in accordance with the order of priority set forth in Section 2.07 or 2.08, as applicable;

 

(2)                                  (a) In the event that any Incremental Term Loans are made, the Borrowers will repay Borrowings consisting of Incremental Term Loans on the dates (each an “ Incremental Term Loan Installment Date ”) and in the amounts set forth in the applicable Incremental Facility Amendment, (b) in the event that any Other Term Loans are made, the Borrowers will repay Borrowings consisting of Other Term Loans on the dates (each an “ Other Term Loan Installment Date ”) and in the amounts set forth in the applicable Refinancing Amendment and (c) in the event that any Extended Term Loans are made, the Borrowers will repay Borrowings consisting of Extended Term Loans on the dates (each an “ Extended Term Loan Installment Date ”) and in the amounts set forth in the applicable Extension Amendment; and

 

(3)                                  to the extent not previously paid, all outstanding Term Loans will be due and payable on the applicable Maturity Date;

 

together, in each case, with accrued and unpaid interest on the principal amount to be paid to but excluding the date of such payment.

 

SECTION 2.07.    Optional Prepayment of Term Loans .  The Borrowers may at any time and from time to time prepay the Initial Term Loans and/or any other Term Loans of any Class, in whole or in part, without premium or penalty (except as provided in Section 2.21 and subject to Section 2.13), in an aggregate principal amount, (1) in the case of Eurocurrency Loans, that is an integral multiple of $1.0 million and not less than $5.0 million, and (2) in the case of ABR Loans, that is an integral multiple of $1.0 million and not less than $5.0 million, or, in each case, if less, the amount outstanding.  Each Borrower will notify the Administrative Agent by telephone (confirmed by hand delivery, facsimile transmission or e-mail) of such election not later than 11:00 a.m., New York City time, (a) in the case of a Eurocurrency Borrowing, three Business Days before the anticipated date of such prepayment and (b) in the case of an ABR Borrowing, one Business Day before the anticipated date of such prepayment.

 

77



 

Each such notice of prepayment will specify the prepayment date and the principal amount of each Borrowing (or portion thereof) to be prepaid.  All prepayments under this Section 2.07 will be accompanied by accrued and unpaid interest on the principal amount to be prepaid to but excluding the date of payment.  Any such notice may be revocable or conditioned on a refinancing of all or any portion of the applicable Term Facility.  Any optional prepayments of Initial Term Loans and/or other Term Loans of any Class pursuant to this Section 2.07 will be applied to the remaining scheduled amortization payments of such applicable Class of Term Loans as directed by each Borrower (or in the absence of such direction, in direct order of maturity, to the amortization payments of such applicable Class of Term Loans) and will be applied ratably to the Term Loans of such Class included in the prepaid Borrowing.

 

SECTION 2.08.    Mandatory Prepayment of Term Loans .

 

(1)                                  The Borrowers will apply all Net Cash Proceeds received after the Closing Date in an Asset Sale made pursuant to Section 6.05(2) (other than any ABL Priority Collateral Asset Sale) to prepay Term Loans within ten Business Days following receipt of such Net Cash Proceeds, unless Holdings has delivered a Reinvestment Notice on or prior to such tenth Business Day; provided that:

 

(a)                                  if any Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, on or prior to the tenth Business Day following receipt thereof, such Net Cash Proceeds will be deposited in an Asset Sale Proceeds Account;

 

(b)                                  subject to the other provisions of this Section 2.08(1), on each Reinvestment Prepayment Date the Borrowers will apply an amount equal to the Reinvestment Prepayment Amount with respect to the relevant Reinvestment Event to the prepayment of the Term Loans (together with accrued interest thereon); and

 

(c)                                   if at the time that any such prepayment would be required, the Borrowers is required to, or to offer to, repurchase, redeem, repay or prepay Indebtedness secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans (any such Indebtedness, “ Other First Lien Indebtedness ”), then the Borrowers may apply such Net Cash Proceeds to redeem, repurchase, repay or prepay all Classes of Term Loans and Other First Lien Indebtedness on a pro rata basis (determined on the basis of the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the Term Loans and Other First Lien Indebtedness at such time);

 

provided , further , that the portion of such Net Cash Proceeds allocated to the Other First Lien Indebtedness will not exceed the amount of such Net Cash Proceeds required to be allocated to the Other First Lien Indebtedness pursuant to the terms thereof, and the remaining amount, if any, of such Net Cash Proceeds will be allocated to the prepayment of the Term Loans (in accordance with the terms hereof) and to the repurchase or repayment of Other First Lien Indebtedness on a pro rata basis, and the amount of the prepayment of the Term Loans that would have otherwise been required pursuant to this clause (1) will be reduced accordingly; provided , further , that to the extent the holders of Other First Lien Indebtedness decline to have such Indebtedness repurchased, redeemed, repaid or prepaid with such Net Cash Proceeds, the declined amount of such Net Cash

 

78



 

Proceeds will promptly (and in any event within ten Business Days after the date of such rejection) be applied to prepay the Term Loans in accordance with the terms hereof (to the extent such Net Cash Proceeds would otherwise have been required to be so applied if such Other First Lien Indebtedness was not then outstanding).

 

(2)                                  Commencing with the fiscal year ending December 31, 2018, not later than 90 days after the end of each Excess Cash Flow Period, Holdings will calculate Excess Cash Flow for such Excess Cash Flow Period and will apply the following amount to the prepayment of Term Loans:

 

(a)                                  the Required Percentage of such Excess Cash Flow; minus

 

(b)                                  the amount of any voluntary prepayments during such Excess Cash Flow Period or on or prior to the 90th day after the end of such Excess Cash Flow Period, including prepayments of Term Loans under Section 10.04(14) ( provided that any such reduction under this clause (b) shall be limited to the actual amount of such cash payment) of:

 

(i)                                      Term Loans (including Incremental Term Loans, Other Term Loans and Extended Term Loans);

 

(ii)                                   loans under the ABL Credit Agreement (to the extent accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the commitments);

 

(iii)                                Other First Lien Indebtedness (and, in the case of any revolving indebtedness, to the extent accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the commitments); and

 

(iv)                               Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred to Refinance any of the foregoing Indebtedness (or Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness described in this clause (iv)), in each case that is secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans (and, in the case of any revolving indebtedness, to the extent accompanied by a corresponding reduction in the commitments);

 

in each case, to the extent not financed with the proceeds of the issuance or the incurrence of Indebtedness (other than proceeds of revolving loans); provided that any such voluntary prepayment that is made on or prior to the 90th day after the end of such Excess Cash Flow Period (or 120th day in the case of the first Excess Cash Flow Period) will not reduce Excess Cash Flow for the next succeeding Excess Cash Flow Period pursuant to this clause (b).

 

Not later than the date on which Holdings is required to deliver financial statements with respect to the end of each Excess Cash Flow Period under Section 5.04(1), Holdings will deliver to the Administrative Agent a certificate signed by a Financial Officer of Holdings setting forth the amount, if any, of Excess Cash Flow for such fiscal year and the calculation thereof in reasonable detail.

 

79



 

(3)                                  The Borrowers will apply 100% of the net cash proceeds received after the Closing Date from the incurrence, issuance or sale by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of any Indebtedness that is not Excluded Indebtedness to the prepayment of Term Loans, on or prior to the date which is five Business Days after the receipt of such net cash proceeds.

 

(4)                                  [Reserved].

 

(5)                                  [Reserved].

 

(6)                                  [Reserved]

 

(7)                                  Notwithstanding anything in this Section 2.08 to the contrary, any Lender may elect, by notice to the Administrative Agent by telephone (confirmed by hand delivery, facsimile transmission or e-mail) at least two Business Days prior to the required prepayment date, to decline all or any portion of any mandatory prepayment of its Term Loans pursuant to this Section 2.08 (other than clause (3) of this Section 2.08), in which case the aggregate amount of the prepayment that would have been applied to prepay Term Loans but was so declined will be retained by the Borrowers and applied for any permitted purpose hereunder.  Such prepayments will be applied on a pro rata basis to the then outstanding Term Loans of all Classes being prepaid irrespective of whether such outstanding Term Loans are ABR Loans or Eurocurrency Loans; provided that the amount of such mandatory prepayment will be applied first to Term Loans that are ABR Loans to the full extent thereof before application to Term Loans that are Eurocurrency Loans in a manner that minimizes the amount of any payments required to be made by the Borrower pursuant to Section 2.13.

 

(8)                                  The Borrowers will deliver to the Administrative Agent, at the time of each prepayment required under this Section 2.08 (other than Section 2.08(6)), (a) a certificate signed by a Financial Officer of such Borrowers setting forth in reasonable detail the calculation of the amount of such prepayment and (b) to the extent practicable, at least three Business Days prior written notice of such prepayment.  Each notice of prepayment shall specify the prepayment date, the Type of each Term Loan being prepaid and the principal amount of each Term Loan (or portion thereof) to be prepaid.  Prepayment of the Term Loans pursuant to this Section 2.08 will be made without premium or penalty, accompanied by accrued and unpaid interest on the principal amount to be prepaid to but excluding the date of payment, and applied as directed by the Borrowers or, absent such direction, to reduce scheduled amortization payments of Term Loans under Section 2.06(1) in direct order of maturity; provided that any prepayment of Incremental Term Loans, Other Term Loans or Extended Term Loans will be applied in the order specified in the applicable Permitted Amendment.  No payments under Section 2.13 will be required in connection with a prepayment of Term Loans pursuant to this Section 2.08.  In the event of any prepayment of Term Loans pursuant to this Section 2.08 at a time when Term Loans of more than one Class remain outstanding, the aggregate amount of such prepayment will be allocated between each Class of Term Loans pro rata based on the aggregate principal amount of outstanding Term Loans of each such Class (except as otherwise provided in the applicable Permitted Amendment, in each case with respect to the applicable Class of Term Loans).

 

80


 

(9)                                  With respect to any prepayment required in this Section 2.08 (other than Section 2.08(6)), notwithstanding any provisions of this Section 2.08 to the contrary,

 

(a)                                  to the extent that any or all of the Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow giving rise to a prepayment event pursuant to this Section 2.08 is prohibited or delayed by (i) applicable local law (including laws related to financial assistance, corporate benefit, thin capitalization, capital maintenance, liquidity maintenance and similar legal principles, and in respect of restrictions on upstreaming of cash intra-group and the fiduciary and statutory duties of the Board of Directors of the applicable Restricted Subsidiaries) from being repatriated to the relevant Borrower(s) or (ii) material organizational document restrictions (other than with respect to Wholly-Owned Subsidiaries), the portion of such Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow so affected will not be required to be applied to prepay Term Loans at the times provided in this Section 2.08, but may be retained by the Borrowers or the applicable Subsidiary for so long, but only so long, as the applicable local law or restriction will not permit repayment or repatriation to the relevant Borrower(s), as applicable.  Once such repatriation or repayment of any of such affected Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow is permitted under the applicable local law or restriction (and the Borrowers hereby agree to use all commercially reasonable efforts to overcome or eliminate any such restrictions on repatriation and/or minimize any such costs of prepayment and/or use the other cash sources of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries to make the relevant prepayment), such repatriation or repayment will be effected promptly and such repatriated or repaid Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow will be promptly applied (net of additional taxes payable or reserved against as a result thereof) to the prepayment of the Term Loans pursuant to this Section 2.08 to the extent provided herein; provided that, in the case of a local law restriction on repatriation, each Borrower hereby agrees, and will cause any applicable Subsidiary, to promptly take all commercially reasonable actions required by applicable local law to permit any such repatriation; or

 

(b)                                  to the extent that a Responsible Officer of Holdings has reasonably determined in good faith that repatriation or repayment of any of or all the Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow giving rise to a prepayment event pursuant to this Section 2.08 would have an adverse tax cost consequence or be prohibited due to such material organizational document restrictions as a result of minority ownership or applicable law, the Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow so affected will not be required to be applied to prepay Term Loans at the times provided in this Section 2.08, but may be retained by the applicable Borrower or the applicable Subsidiary without being repatriated or repaid, as applicable; provided that, once such repatriation or repayment of any of such affected Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow would no longer be prohibited or have such adverse tax consequences, such repatriation or repayment will be effected promptly and such repatriated or repaid Net Cash Proceeds or Excess Cash Flow will be promptly applied (net of additional taxes payable or reserved against as a result thereof) to

 

81



 

the prepayment of the Term Loans pursuant to this Section 2.08 to the extent provided herein.

 

For purposes of this Section 2.08(9), references to “law” mean, with respect to any Person, (1) the common law and any federal, state, local, foreign, multinational or international statutes, laws, treaties, judicial decisions, standards, rules and regulations, guidances, guidelines, ordinances, rules, judgments, writs, orders, decrees, codes, plans, injunctions, permits, concessions, grants, franchises, governmental agreements and governmental restrictions (including administrative or judicial precedents or authorities), in each case whether now or hereafter in effect, and (2) the interpretation or administration thereof by, and other determinations, directives, requirements or requests of, any Governmental Authority, in each case whether or not having the force of law and that are applicable to or binding upon such Person or any of its property or to which such Person or any of its property is subject.

 

SECTION 2.09.    Fees .

 

(1)                                  The Borrowers agree to pay to the Administrative Agent, for its own account, the “Term Loan Administration Fee” set forth in the applicable fee letter among the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent, at the times and on the terms specified therein (the “ Administrative Agent Fees ”).

 

(2)                                  All Fees will be paid on the dates due and payable, in immediately available funds, to the Administrative Agent at the Payment Office for distribution, if and as appropriate, among the Lenders.  Once paid, but subject to the last sentence of Section 2.08(6), none of the Fees will be refundable under any circumstances.  No payment of fees will be made by a French Loan party on an account opened with a financial institution situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction.

 

SECTION 2.10.    Interest .

 

(1)                                  The Term Loans comprising each ABR Borrowing will bear interest at the ABR plus the Applicable Margin.

 

(2)                                  The Term Loans comprising each Eurocurrency Borrowing will bear interest at the Adjusted LIBO Rate for the Interest Period in effect for such Borrowing plus the Applicable Margin.

 

(3)                                  Following the occurrence and during the continuation of a Specified Event of Default, the Borrowers will pay interest on overdue amounts hereunder at a rate per annum equal to (i) in the case of overdue principal of, or interest on, any Term Loan, 2.00% plus the rate otherwise applicable to such Term Loan as provided in the preceding paragraphs of this Section 2.10 or (ii) in the case of any other overdue amount, 2.00% plus the rate applicable to ABR Loans as provided in clause (1) of this Section 2.10.

 

82



 

(4)                                  Default interest (if unpaid) arising on an overdue amount will be compounded with the overdue amount only if, within the meaning of article 1343-2 of the French Code civil , such interest is due by a French Loan Party for a period of at least one year.

 

(5)                                  Accrued interest on each Term Loan will be payable in arrears (i) on each Interest Payment Date for such Term Loan and (ii) on the applicable Maturity Date; provided that (A) interest accrued pursuant to paragraph (3) of this Section 2.10 will be payable on demand, (B) in the event of any repayment or prepayment of any Term Loan, accrued interest on the principal amount repaid or prepaid will be payable on the date of such repayment or prepayment and (C) in the event of any conversion of any Eurocurrency Loan prior to the end of the current Interest Period therefor, accrued interest on such Term Loan will be payable on the effective date of such conversion.

 

(6)                                  All interest hereunder will be computed on the basis of a year of 360 days, except that interest computed by reference to the ABR at times when the ABR is based on the prime rate, will be computed on the basis of a year of 365 days (or 366 days in a leap year), and, in each case, will be payable for the actual number of days elapsed (including the first day but excluding the last day).  The applicable ABR, Adjusted LIBO Rate or LIBO Rate will be determined by the Administrative Agent, and such determination will be conclusive absent manifest error.

 

SECTION 2.11.    Alternate Rate of Interest .  If prior to the commencement of any Interest Period for a Eurocurrency Borrowing:

 

(1)                                  the Administrative Agent determines (which determination will be conclusive absent manifest error) that adequate and reasonable means do not exist for ascertaining the Adjusted LIBO Rate or the LIBO Rate, as applicable, for such Interest Period; or

 

(2)                                  the Administrative Agent is advised by the Required Lenders that the Adjusted LIBO Rate or the LIBO Rate, as applicable, for such Interest Period will not adequately and fairly reflect the cost to such Lenders of making or maintaining their Term Loans included in such Borrowing for such Interest Period;

 

then the Administrative Agent will give notice thereof to the Borrowers and the applicable Lenders by telephone, facsimile transmission or e-mail as promptly as practicable thereafter and, until the Administrative Agent notifies the Borrowers and the Lenders that the circumstances giving rise to such notice no longer exist, (a) any Interest Election Request that requests the conversion of any applicable Borrowing to, or continuation of any such Borrowing as, a Eurocurrency Borrowing will be ineffective and such Borrowing will be converted to or continued as on the last day of the Interest Period applicable thereto an ABR Borrowing and (b) if any Borrowing Request requests a Eurocurrency Borrowing, such Borrowing will be made as an ABR Borrowing.

 

83



 

SECTION 2.12.    Increased Costs .

 

(1)                                  If any Change in Law:

 

(a)                                  imposes, modifies or deems applicable any reserve, special deposit or similar requirement against assets of, deposits with or for the account of, or credit extended by, any Lender (except any such reserve requirement reflected in the Adjusted LIBO Rate);

 

(b)                                  imposes on any Lender or the London interbank market any other condition (other than Taxes) affecting this Agreement or Eurocurrency Loans made by such Lender; or

 

(c)                                   subjects any Recipient to any Taxes (other than (i) Indemnified Taxes, (ii) Taxes described in clauses (2) through (5) of the definition of Excluded Taxes and (iii) Connection Income Taxes) on its loans, loan principal, letters of credit, commitments or other obligations, or deposits, reserves, other liabilities or capital attributable thereto;

 

and the result of any of the foregoing is to increase the cost to such Lender of making or maintaining any Eurocurrency Loan (or of maintaining its obligation to make any such Term Loan) or to reduce the amount of any sum received or receivable by such Lender hereunder (whether of principal, interest or otherwise), then the Borrowers will pay to such Lender such additional amount or amounts as will compensate such Lender for such additional costs incurred or reduction suffered.

 

(2)                                  If any Lender determines that any Change in Law regarding capital or liquidity requirements has or would have the effect of reducing the rate of return on such Lender’s capital or on the capital of such Lender’s holding company, if any, as a consequence of this Agreement or the Term Loans made by such Lender, to a level below that which such Lender or such Lender’s holding company could have achieved but for such Change in Law (taking into consideration such Lender’s policies and the policies of such Lender’s holding company with respect to capital adequacy or liquidity), then from time to time the Borrower will pay to such Lender such additional amount or amounts as will compensate such Lender or such Lender’s holding company for any such reduction suffered.

 

(3)                                  A certificate of a Lender setting forth the amount or amounts necessary to compensate such Lender or its holding company, as applicable, as specified in paragraph (1) or (2) of this Section 2.12 will be delivered to the Borrowers and will be conclusive absent manifest error.  The Borrower will pay such Lender the amount shown as due on any such certificate within ten days after receipt thereof.

 

(4)                                  Promptly after any Lender has determined that it will make a request for increased compensation pursuant to this Section 2.12, such Lender will notify the Borrowers thereof.  Failure or delay on the part of any Lender to demand compensation pursuant to this Section 2.12 will not constitute a waiver of such Lender’s right to demand such compensation; provided that the Borrowers will not be required to compensate a Lender pursuant to this Section 2.12 for any increased costs or reductions incurred more than 180 days prior to the date that such Lender notifies the Borrowers of the Change in Law giving rise to such increased costs or reductions and of such Lender’s intention to claim

 

84



 

compensation therefor; provided , further , that if the Change in Law giving rise to such increased costs or reductions is retroactive, then the 180 day period referred to above will be extended to include the period of retroactive effect thereof.

 

SECTION 2.13.    Break Funding Payments .  Except as otherwise set forth herein, the Borrowers will compensate each Lender for the actual out-of-pocket loss, cost and expense (excluding loss of anticipated profits) attributable to the following events:

 

(1)                                  the payment of any principal of any Eurocurrency Loan other than on the last day of an Interest Period applicable thereto (including as a result of an Event of Default);

 

(2)                                  the conversion of any Eurocurrency Loan other than on the last day of the Interest Period applicable thereto;

 

(3)                                  the failure to borrow, convert, continue or prepay any Eurocurrency Loan on the date specified in any notice delivered pursuant hereto; or

 

(4)                                  the assignment of any Eurocurrency Loan other than on the last day of the Interest Period applicable thereto as a result of a request by the Borrowers pursuant to Section 2.16.

 

A certificate of any Lender setting forth in reasonable detail any amount or amounts that such Lender is entitled to receive pursuant to this Section 2.13 will be delivered to the Borrowers and will be conclusive absent manifest error.  The Borrower will pay such Lender the amount shown as due on any such certificate within ten days after receipt thereof.

 

SECTION 2.14.    Taxes .

 

(1)                                  Any and all payments by or on account of any obligation of any Loan Party hereunder will be made free and clear of and without deduction for any Taxes, except as required by applicable law; provided that if any Taxes are required to be deducted under any applicable law from such payments (as determined in the good faith discretion of the Loan Party or the applicable withholding agent), then (a) such Loan Party (or other applicable withholding agent) will make such deductions; (b) such Loan Party (or other applicable withholding agent) will timely pay the full amount deducted to the relevant Governmental Authority in accordance with applicable law, and (c) if such Tax is an Indemnified Tax, the sum payable by the Loan Party will be increased as necessary so that after all required deductions have been made (including deductions applicable to additional sums payable under this Section 2.14) the Administrative Agent or any Lender, as applicable, receives an amount equal to the amount it would have received had no such deductions been made.

 

(2)                                  In addition, the Loan Parties will pay any Other Taxes to the relevant Governmental Authority in accordance with applicable law or at the option of the Administrative Agent timely reimburse it for the payment of such Other Taxes, except for Other Taxes due as  a result of registration or other action by the Administrative Agent or any Lender where such registration or action is not:

 

85



 

(a)                                  necessary to maintain, preserve, establish, enforce, perfect or protect the rights of the Administrative Agent or any Lender under the Loan Documents; or

 

(b)                                  required by any competent tax administration or supervisory body.

 

(3)                                  The Loan Parties will indemnify the Administrative Agent and each Lender, within ten days after written demand therefor, for the full amount of any Indemnified Taxes payable or paid by the Administrative Agent or such Lender on or with respect to any payment by or on account of any obligation of such Loan Party hereunder (including Indemnified Taxes imposed or asserted on or attributable to amounts payable under this Section 2.14) and any reasonable expenses arising therefrom or with respect thereto, whether or not such Indemnified Taxes were correctly or legally imposed or asserted by the relevant Governmental Authority.  A certificate as to the amount of such payment or liability delivered to such Loan Party by a Lender, or by the Administrative Agent on its own behalf or on behalf of a Lender, will be conclusive absent manifest error. The limitations set out in Section [  ] of the Guaranty shall apply mutatis mutandis.

 

(4)                                  As soon as practicable after any payment of Indemnified Taxes by a Loan Party to a Governmental Authority pursuant to this Section 2.14, such Loan Party will deliver to the Administrative Agent the original or a certified copy of a receipt issued by such Governmental Authority evidencing such payment, a copy of the return reporting such payment or other evidence of such payment reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.

 

(5)

 

(a)                                  Any Lender that is entitled to an exemption from or reduction of withholding Tax with respect to payments made under any Loan Document will deliver to the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent, at the time or times reasonably requested by the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent (and in any event at least 30 days before the payment subject to such withholding is due) such properly completed and executed documentation reasonably requested by the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent as will permit such payments to be made without withholding or at a reduced rate of withholding.  In addition, any Lender, if reasonably requested by the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent, will deliver such other documentation prescribed by applicable law or reasonably requested by the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent as will enable the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent to determine whether or not such Lender is subject to backup withholding or information reporting requirements.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in the preceding two sentences, the completion, execution and submission of such documentation (other than such documentation set forth in Sections 2.14(5)(b), 2.14(5)(c) and 2.14(6) below) will not be required if in the Lender’s reasonable judgment such completion, execution or submission would subject such Lender to any material unreimbursed cost or expense or would materially prejudice the legal or commercial position of such Lender.

 

86



 

(b)                                  Without limiting the effect of Section 2.14(5)(a) above, each Lender that is a U.S. Person will deliver to the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent on or prior to the date on which such Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable request of the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent), copies of Internal Revenue Service Form W-9 certifying that such Lender is exempt from U.S. federal backup withholding tax.

 

(c)                                   Without limiting the effect of Section 2.14(5)(a) above, each Foreign Lender will, to the extent it is legally entitled to do so, deliver to the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent (in such number of copies as shall be requested by the recipient) on or prior to the date on which such Foreign Lender becomes a Lender under this Agreement (and from time to time thereafter upon the reasonable request of the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent), copies of whichever of the following is applicable:

 

(i)                                      duly completed copies of Internal Revenue Service Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E, as applicable (or any subsequent versions thereof or successors thereto), claiming eligibility for benefits of an income tax treaty to which the United States of America is a party;

 

(ii)                                   duly completed copies of Internal Revenue Service Form W-8ECI (or any subsequent versions thereof or successors thereto);

 

(iii)                                in the case of a Foreign Lender claiming the benefits of the exemption for portfolio interest under Section 871(h) or 881(c) of the Code, (A) a certificate substantially in the form of the applicable Exhibit F to the effect that such Foreign Lender is not:

 

(x)           a “bank” within the meaning of Section 881(c)(3)(A) of the Code;

 

(y)                                  a “10 percent shareholder” of the US Borrower within the meaning of Section 871(h)(3) or 881(c)(3)(B) of the Code; or

 

(z)                                   a “controlled foreign corporation” described in Section 881(c)(3)(C) of the Code; and

 

(B) duly completed copies of Internal Revenue Service Form W-8BEN or W-8BEN-E, as applicable (or any subsequent versions thereof or successors thereto);

 

(iv)                               duly completed copies of Internal Revenue Service Form W-8IMY, together with forms and certificates described in clauses (i) through (iii) above (and any additional Form W-8IMYs) and, if applicable Internal Revenue Service Form W-9, as may be required; provided that if the Foreign Lender is a partnership and one or more direct or indirect partners of such Foreign Lender are claiming the benefits of the portfolio interest exemption, such Foreign Lender may provide a certificate substantially in

 

87



 

the form of Exhibit F-4 on behalf of each such direct and indirect partner; or

 

(v)                                  any other form prescribed by applicable law as a basis for claiming exemption from or a reduction in United States federal withholding tax duly completed together with such supplementary documentation as may be prescribed by applicable law to permit the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent to determine the withholding or deduction required to be made.

 

In addition, each Lender agrees that if any form or certification it previously delivered expires or becomes obsolete or inaccurate in any respect, the Lender shall, following written request by the relevant Borrower or the Administrative Agent within a reasonable time frame before such an expiration, obsolescence or inaccuracy occurs, will update such form or certification or promptly notify the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent in writing of its legal inability to do so.

 

(6)                                  If a payment made to a Recipient under any Loan Document would be subject to U.S. federal withholding Tax imposed by FATCA if such Recipient were to fail to comply with the applicable reporting requirements of FATCA (including those contained in Section 1471(b) or 1472(b) of the Code, as applicable), such Recipient will deliver to the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent at the time or times prescribed by law and at such time or times reasonably requested by the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent such documentation prescribed by applicable law (including as prescribed by Section 1471(b)(3)(C)(i) of the Code) and such additional documentation reasonably requested by the Borrowers or the Administrative Agent as may be necessary for the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent to comply with their obligations under FATCA and to determine that such Recipient has complied with such Recipient’s obligations under FATCA or to determine the amount to deduct and withhold from such payment.  Solely for purposes of this clause (6), “FATCA” will include any amendments made to FATCA after the date of this Agreement.

 

Each Lender agrees that if any form or certification it previously delivered expires or becomes obsolete or inaccurate in any respect, it will update such form or certification or promptly notify the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent in writing of its legal inability to do so.

 

(7)                                  If the Administrative Agent or any Lender determines, in its sole discretion exercised in good faith, that it has received a refund of any Taxes as to which it has been indemnified by a Loan Party or with respect to which such Loan Party has paid additional amounts pursuant to this Section 2.14, it will pay over promptly an amount equal to such refund to such Loan Party (but only to the extent of indemnity payments made, or additional amounts paid, by such Loan Party under this Section 2.14 with respect to the Taxes giving rise to such refund), net of all out-of-pocket expenses of the Administrative Agent or such Lender (including any Taxes imposed with respect to such refund), and without interest (other than any interest paid by the relevant Governmental Authority with respect to such refund); provided that such Loan Party, upon the request of the Administrative Agent or such Lender, agrees to repay as soon as reasonably practicable the amount paid over to such Loan Party pursuant to this Section 2.14(7) ( plus any penalties, interest or

 

88



 

other charges imposed by the relevant Governmental Authority) to the Administrative Agent or such Lender in the event the Administrative Agent or such Lender is required to repay such refund to such Governmental Authority.  This Section 2.14(7) will not be construed to require the Administrative Agent or any Lender to make available its Tax returns (or any other information relating to its Taxes which it deems, in good faith, to be confidential) to the Loan Parties or any other Person.

 

(8)                                  Each party’s obligations under this Section 2.14 will survive the resignation or replacement of the Administrative Agent or any assignment of rights by, or the replacement of, a Lender, the termination of the Commitments and the repayment, satisfaction or discharge of all obligations under any Loan Document.

 

(9)                                  For purposes of this Section 2.14, the term “applicable law” includes FATCA.

 

SECTION 2.15.    Payments Generally; Pro Rata Treatment; Sharing of Set-offs .

 

(1)                                  Unless otherwise specified, (a) the Borrowers will make each payment required to be made by it hereunder (whether of principal, interest, fees or otherwise) prior to 2:00 p.m., New York City time, at the Payment Office, except that payments pursuant to Sections 2.12, 2.14 and 10.05 will be made directly to the Persons entitled thereto; and (b) each such payment will be made, on the date when due, in immediately available funds, without condition or deduction for any defense, recoupment, set-off or counterclaim.  Any amounts received after such time on any date may, in the discretion of the Administrative Agent, be deemed to have been received on the next succeeding Business Day for purposes of calculating interest thereon.  The Administrative Agent will distribute any such payments received by it for the account of any other Person to the appropriate recipient promptly following receipt thereof and will make settlements with the Lenders with respect to other payments at the times and in the manner provided in this Agreement.  Except as otherwise provided herein, if any payment hereunder is due on a day that is not a Business Day, the date for payment will be extended to the next succeeding Business Day, and, in the case of any payment accruing interest, interest thereon will be payable for the period of such extension.  Any payment required to be made by the Administrative Agent hereunder will be deemed to have been made by the time required if the Administrative Agent, at or before such time, has taken the necessary steps to make such payment in accordance with the regulations or operating procedures of the clearing or settlement system used by the Administrative Agent to make such payment.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this paragraph (1), no payment under the Loan Documents shall be made by a French Loan Party on an account opened with a financial institution situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction.

 

(2)                                  Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement:

 

(a)                                  If (x) at any time insufficient funds are received by and available to the Administrative Agent from the Borrowers to pay fully all amounts of principal, interest and fees then due from such Borrower hereunder or (y) at any time an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing and the Administrative

 

89



 

Agent will receive proceeds of Term Priority Collateral in connection with the exercise of remedies, such funds will be applied in the following order of priority (subject to the application of proceeds provisions contained in the Intercreditor Agreement):

 

(i)                                      first , to all amounts owing to the Collateral Agent or the Administrative Agent pursuant to any of the Loan Documents in its capacity as such in respect of (1) the preservation of Collateral or its security interest in the Collateral or (2) with respect to enforcing the rights of the Secured Parties under the Loan Documents;

 

(ii)                                   second , to the extent proceeds remain after the application pursuant to preceding clause (i), to all other amounts owing to the Administrative Agent or Collateral Agent pursuant to any of the Loan Documents in its capacity as such;

 

(iii)                                third , to the extent proceeds remain after the application pursuant to preceding clauses (i) through (ii), to an amount equal to the outstanding Obligations;

 

(iv)                               fourth , to the extent proceeds remain after the application pursuant to preceding clauses (i) through (iii), inclusive, and following the payment in full of the Obligations, to the relevant Loan Party, their successors or assigns, or as a court of competent jurisdiction may otherwise direct or as otherwise required by the Intercreditor Agreement.

 

(b)                                  If any payment to any Secured Party pursuant to this Section 2.15(2) of its pro rata share of any distribution would result in overpayment to such Secured Party, such excess amount shall instead be distributed in respect of the unpaid Obligations of the other Secured Parties, with each Secured Party whose Obligations have not been paid in full to receive an amount equal to such excess amount multiplied by a fraction the numerator of which is the unpaid Obligations of such Secured Party and the denominator of which is the unpaid Obligations of all Secured Parties entitled to such distribution.

 

(c)                                   Subject to the terms of the Intercreditor Agreement, all payments required to be made pursuant to the Loan Documents shall be made to the Administrative Agent for the account of such Secured Parties or as the Administrative Agent may otherwise direct in accordance with the Loan Documents.

 

(d)                                  For purposes of applying payments received in accordance with this Section 2.15(2), the Collateral Agent will be entitled to rely upon (a) the Administrative Agent and (b) the applicable Secured Parties with respect to payments of Specified Hedge Agreements (which the Administrative Agent and each other Secured Party agrees (or shall agree) to provide upon request of the Collateral Agent) of the outstanding Obligations owed to the Secured Parties.

 

90


 

(e)                                   Subject to the other limitations (if any) set forth herein and in the other Loan Documents, it is understood that the Loan Parties will remain liable (as and to the extent set forth in herein except to the extent that any of the foregoing are found by a final and non-appealable decision of a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted from the Collateral Agent’s gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct) to the extent of any deficiency between the amount of the proceeds of the Collateral and the aggregate amount of the Obligations of the Loan Parties.

 

(f)                                    It is understood and agreed by each Loan Party that the Collateral Agent will have no liability for any determinations made by it in this Section 2.15(2) except to the extent that any of the foregoing are found by a final and non-appealable decision of a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted from its own gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct.  Each Loan Party also agrees that the Collateral Agent may (but shall not be required to), at any time and in its sole discretion, and with no liability resulting therefrom, petition a court of competent jurisdiction regarding any application of Collateral in accordance with the requirements hereof and of each Intercreditor Agreement, and the Collateral Agent shall be entitled to wait for, and may conclusively rely on, any such determination.

 

(g)                                   Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement or any other Loan Document to the contrary, the Collateral Agent will not be required to marshal the Collateral or any guarantee of the Obligations or to resort to the Collateral or any such Guarantee in any particular order.

 

(3)                                  Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, if any Lender, by exercising any right of set-off or counterclaim or otherwise, obtains payment in respect of any principal of or interest on any of its Class of Term Loans resulting in such Lender receiving payment of a greater proportion of the aggregate amount of its Class of Term Loans than the proportion received by any other Lender in such Class, then the Lender receiving such greater proportion will purchase (for cash at face value) participations in the Term Loans of such Class of other Lenders in such Class to the extent necessary so that the benefit of all such payments will be shared by the Lenders in such Class ratably in accordance with the aggregate amount of principal of and accrued interest on their respective Term Loans of such Class; provided that (a) if any such participations are purchased and all or any portion of the payment giving rise thereto is recovered, such participations will be rescinded and the purchase price restored to the extent of such recovery, without interest, and (b) the provisions of this paragraph (3) will not be construed to apply to any payment made by the Borrowers pursuant to and in accordance with the express terms of this Agreement (including the application of funds arising from the existence of a Defaulting Lender or a Disqualified Institution) or any payment obtained by a Lender as consideration for the assignment of or sale of a participation in any of its Term Loans to any assignee or participant.  Each Borrower consents to the foregoing and agrees, to the extent it may effectively do so under applicable law, that any Lender acquiring a participation pursuant to the foregoing arrangements may exercise against the Borrower rights of set-off and counterclaim with respect to such participation as fully as if such Lender were a direct creditor of the Borrowers in the amount of such participation.

 

91



 

(4)                                  Unless the Administrative Agent has received notice from the Borrower prior to the date on which any payment is due to the Administrative Agent for the account of the Lenders hereunder that such Borrower will not make such payment, the Administrative Agent may assume that such Borrower has made such payment on such date in accordance herewith and may, in reliance upon such assumption, distribute to the Lenders the amount due.  In such event, if such Borrower has not in fact made such payment, then each of the Lenders severally agrees to repay to the Administrative Agent forthwith on demand the amount so distributed to such Lender with interest thereon, for each day from and including the date such amount is distributed to it to but excluding the date of payment to the Administrative Agent, at the greater of the Federal Funds Rate and a rate determined by the Administrative Agent in accordance with banking industry rules on interbank compensation.

 

(5)                                  If any Lender fails to make any payment required to be made by it pursuant to Section 2.03(1) or 2.15(3), then the Administrative Agent may, in its discretion (notwithstanding any contrary provision hereof), apply any amounts thereafter received by the Administrative Agent for the account of such Lender to satisfy such Lender’s obligations under Section 2.03(1) or 2.15(3), as applicable, until all such unsatisfied obligations are fully paid.

 

(6)                                  Any Secured Party is not obliged to share any amount recovered from a Spanish Loan Party which is declared insolvent, with any other Secured Party which is regarded as a related party ( persona especialmente relacionada ) to that Spanish Loan Party under the Spanish Insolvency Law.

 

SECTION 2.16.    Mitigation Obligations; Replacement of Lenders .

 

(1)                                  If any Lender requests compensation under Section 2.12, or if the Borrowers are required to pay any Indemnified Taxes or additional amount to any Lender or any Governmental Authority for the account of any Lender pursuant to Section 2.14, or if any amount payable under a Loan Document by a French Guarantor on behalf of a Borrower becomes not deductible from that French Guarantor’s taxable income for French tax purposes by reason of that amount being paid or accrued to a Finance Party incorporated, domiciled, established or acting through a Facility Office situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction or paid to an account opened in the name of or for the benefit of that Finance Party in a financial institution situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction, then such Lender or Finance Party, as the case may be, will, in consultation with the relevant Loan Party, take all reasonable steps to mitigate any such consequences, including, but not limited to, designating a different Lending Office for funding or booking its Term Loans hereunder or assigning its rights and obligations hereunder to another of its offices, branches or Affiliates if such designation or assignment (a) would eliminate or reduce amounts payable pursuant to Section 2.12 or 2.14, as applicable, in the future or avoid such non-tax deductibility for French income tax purposes and (b) would not subject such Lender to any material unreimbursed cost or expense and would not otherwise be disadvantageous to such Lender in any material respect.  Such Borrower hereby agrees to pay all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by any Lender in connection with any such designation or assignment.

 

92



 

(2)                                  If any Lender requests compensation under Section 2.12 or is a Defaulting Lender, or if the Borrowers are required to pay any Indemnified Taxes or additional amount to any Lender or any Governmental Authority for the account of any Lender pursuant to Section 2.14, then each Borrower may, at its sole expense, upon notice to such Lender and the Administrative Agent, either (a) prepay such Lender’s outstanding Term Loans hereunder in full on a non- pro rata basis without premium or penalty (including with respect to the processing and recordation fee referred to in Section 10.04(2)(b)(ii)) or (b) require such Lender to assign and delegate, without recourse (in accordance with and subject to the restrictions contained in Section 10.04), all its interests, rights and obligations under this Agreement to an assignee that will assume such obligations (which assignee may be another Lender, if a Lender accepts such assignment); provided that (i) in the case of clause (b) above, the Borrowers have received the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent, which consent will not unreasonably be withheld, if a consent by the Administrative Agent would be required under Section 10.04 for an assignment of Term Loans to such assignee, (ii) such Lender has received payment of an amount equal to the outstanding principal of its Term Loans, accrued interest thereon, accrued fees and all other amounts payable to it hereunder, from the assignee (to the extent of such outstanding principal and accrued interest and fees) or the Borrower (in the case of all other amounts) and (iii) in the case of any such assignment resulting from a claim for compensation under Section 2.12 or payments required to be made pursuant to Section 2.14, such assignment will result in a reduction in such compensation or payments thereafter.  Nothing in this Section 2.16 will be deemed to prejudice any rights that the Borrowers may have against any Lender that is a Defaulting Lender.

 

(3)                                  If any Lender (such Lender, a “ Non-Consenting Lender ”) has failed to consent to a proposed amendment, waiver, discharge or termination that, pursuant to the terms of Section 10.08, requires the consent of such Lender and with respect to which the Required Lenders have granted their consent, then the Borrowers will have the right (unless such Non-Consenting Lender grants such consent) at their sole expense, to either (a) prepay such Lender’s outstanding Term Loans hereunder in full on a non- pro rata basis without premium or penalty (including with respect to the processing and recordation fee referred to in Section 10.04(2)(b)(ii)) or (b) replace such Non-Consenting Lender by deeming such Non-Consenting Lender to have assigned its Term Loans and its Commitments hereunder to one or more assignees reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent if a consent by the Administrative Agent would be required under Section 10.04 for an assignment of Term Loans to such Assignee; provided that (i) all Obligations of the Borrowers owing to such Non-Consenting Lender (including accrued Fees and any amounts due under Section 2.12, 2.13, 2.14 or 2.21) being removed or replaced will be paid in full to such Non-Consenting Lender concurrently with such removal or assignment and (ii) in the case of clause (b) above, the replacement Lender will purchase the foregoing by paying to such Non-Consenting Lender a price equal to the principal amount thereof plus accrued and unpaid interest thereon.  No action by or consent of the Non-Consenting Lender will be necessary in connection with such removal or assignment, in the case of clause (b) above, which shall be immediately and automatically effective upon payment of such purchase price.  In connection with any such assignment, the Borrowers, the Administrative Agent, such Non-Consenting Lender

 

93



 

and the replacement Lender will otherwise comply with Section 10.04; provided that if such Non-Consenting Lender does not comply with Section 10.04 within three Business Days after such Borrower’s request, compliance with Section 10.04 will not be required to effect such assignment.

 

SECTION 2.17.    Illegality .  If any Lender reasonably determines that any change in law has made it unlawful, or if any Governmental Authority has asserted after the Closing Date that it is unlawful, for any Lender or its applicable Lending Office to make or maintain any Eurocurrency Loans, then, upon notice thereof by such Lender to the applicable Borrower through the Administrative Agent, any obligations of such Lender to make or continue Eurocurrency Loans or to convert ABR Borrowings to Eurocurrency Borrowings will be suspended until such Lender notifies the Administrative Agent and the applicable Borrower that the circumstances giving rise to such determination no longer exist.  Upon receipt of such notice, the applicable Borrower will upon demand from such Lender (with a copy to the Administrative Agent), either convert all Eurocurrency Borrowings of such Lender to ABR Borrowings, either on the last day of the Interest Period therefor, if such Lender may lawfully continue to maintain such Eurocurrency Borrowings to such day, or immediately, if such Lender may not lawfully continue to maintain such Term Loans.  Upon any such prepayment or conversion, the Borrowers will also pay accrued interest on the amount so prepaid or converted.

 

SECTION 2.18.    Incremental Facilities .

 

(1)                                  Notice .  At any time and from time to time, on one or more occasions, subject to the terms and conditions set forth herein, the Borrowers may, by notice to the Administrative Agent, increase the aggregate principal amount of any outstanding Class of Term Loans or add one or more additional Classes of term loans under the Loan Documents (the “ Incremental Term Loans; ” each such increase or tranche, an “ Incremental Facility ”).

 

(2)                                  Ranking .  Incremental Term Loans may, at the discretion of the Borrowers, be secured or unsecured.  If Incremental Term Loans are secured on a junior basis to the Term Loans, a Debt Representative, acting on behalf of the holders of such Incremental Term Loans, will become party or otherwise subject to the provisions of a Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement.  Any Incremental Facility that is unsecured or secured on a junior basis to the Term Loans shall be documented pursuant to a separate facility agreement subject to the terms of this Section 2.18, including, as may be necessary under applicable law, pursuant to lower ranking security, which will contractually rank pari passu with the other Security Documents pursuant to the Intercreditor Agreement, any First Lien Intercreditor Agreement and any Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement.

 

(3)                                  Size .  The principal amount of Incremental Facilities incurred pursuant to this Section 2.18 and Incremental Equivalent Term Debt incurred pursuant to Section 6.01(1) will not exceed, in the aggregate, an amount equal to the Non-Ratio Based Incremental Facility Cap; provided that the Borrowers may incur additional Incremental Facilities and Incremental Equivalent Term Debt without regard to the Non-Ratio Based Incremental Facility Cap so long as (a) with respect to any such Incremental Facility or Incremental Equivalent Term Debt to be secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans, the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio (determined on the date on which the applicable Incremental

 

94



 

Facilities or Incremental Equivalent Term Debt is incurred (and after giving effect to such incurrence but without including the proceeds thereof in Unrestricted Cash for purposes of netting) and after giving effect to any acquisition or other transaction consummated in connection with the incurrence of such Incremental Facility or Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, but excluding undrawn commitments under the ABL Credit Agreement) is equal to or less than 1.50 to 1.00; and (b) with respect to any such Incremental Facility or Incremental Equivalent Term Debt to be secured on a junior basis to the Term Loans, subordinated in right of payment to the Term Loans or unsecured and pari passu in right of payment with the Term Loans, the Total Net Leverage Ratio (determined on the date on which the applicable Incremental Facilities or Incremental Equivalent Term Debt is incurred (and after giving effect to such incurrence but without including the proceeds thereof in Unrestricted Cash for purposes of netting) and after giving effect to any acquisition or other transaction consummated in connection with the incurrence of such Incremental Facility or Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, but excluding undrawn commitments under the ABL Credit Agreement) is equal to or less than 3.20 to 1.00 (collectively, the “ Available Incremental Term Loan Facility Amount ”).

 

If the Borrowers incur indebtedness under the Non-Ratio Based Incremental Facility Cap on the same date that they incur indebtedness under the Available Incremental Term Loan Facility Amount, then the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio or the Total Net Leverage Ratio, as applicable, with respect to the amounts incurred under the Available Incremental Term Loan Facility Amount will be calculated without including any incurrence under the Non-Ratio Based Incremental Facility Cap.  Unless the Borrowers elect otherwise, each Incremental Facility shall be deemed incurred first under the Available Incremental Term Loan Facility Amount to the extent permitted, with the balance incurred under the Non-Ratio Based Incremental Facility Cap.

 

Each tranche of Incremental Term Loans will be in an integral multiple of $1.0 million and in an aggregate principal amount that is not less than $10.0 million (or such lesser minimum amount approved by the Administrative Agent in its reasonable discretion); provided that such amount may be less than the applicable minimum amount or integral multiple amount if such amount represents all the remaining availability under the Available Incremental Term Loan Facility Amount.

 

(4)                                  Incremental Lenders .  Incremental Term Loans may be provided by any existing Lender (it being understood that no existing Lender will have an obligation to provide Incremental Term Loans) or any Additional Lender; provided that the Administrative Agent shall have consented (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned) to any Additional Lender’s providing such Incremental Term Loans if such consent by the Administrative Agent would be required under Section 10.04 for an assignment of Term Loans to such Additional Lender.

 

(5)                                  Incremental Facility Amendments .  Each Incremental Facility that is secured on a pari passu basis with the Obligations hereunder will become effective pursuant to an amendment (each, an “ Incremental Facility Amendment ”) to this Agreement and, as appropriate, the other Loan Documents, executed by each Borrower, each Lender or Additional Lender providing such Incremental Facility (the “ Incremental Lenders ”) and

 

95



 

the Administrative Agent.  Each Incremental Facility that is unsecured or secured on a junior lien basis shall be documented outside of this Credit Agreement and, if secured on a junior lien basis, shall be subject to a Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement.  The Administrative Agent will promptly notify each Lender as to the effectiveness of each Incremental Facility Amendment.  Each of the parties hereto hereby agrees that, upon the effectiveness of any Incremental Facility Amendment, this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, as applicable, will be deemed amended to the extent (but only to the extent) necessary to reflect the existence and terms of the Incremental Facility and the Incremental Term Loans evidenced thereby.

 

(6)                                  Conditions .  The availability of Incremental Term Loans will be subject solely to the following conditions:

 

(a)                                  no Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing on the date such Incremental Term Loans are incurred or would exist immediately after giving effect thereto; provided , that if the Incremental Facility is being incurred in connection with a Limited Condition Acquisition, (i) the date of determination of such condition shall be the LCA Test Date and (ii) on the date such Incremental Facility is incurred (or commitments in respect thereof are provided), no Specified Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing or would exist immediately after giving effect thereto;

 

(b)                                  the representations and warranties in the Loan Documents will be true and correct in all material respects (except for representations and warranties that are already qualified by materiality, which representations and warranties will be accurate in all respects) immediately prior to, and immediately after giving effect to, the incurrence of such Incremental Term Loans; provided , that if the Incremental Facility is being incurred in connection with a Limited Condition Acquisition, the date of determination of such condition shall be the LCA Test Date; and

 

(c)                                   such other conditions (if any) as may be required by the Incremental Lenders providing such Incremental Term Loans, unless such other conditions are waived by such Incremental Lenders.

 

(7)                                  Terms .  The terms of each tranche of Incremental Term Loans will be as agreed between the Borrowers and the Incremental Lenders providing such Incremental Term Loans; provided that:

 

(a)                                  the final maturity date of such Incremental Term Loans will be no earlier than the Latest Maturity Date of the Term Loans;

 

(b)                                  the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of such Incremental Term Loans will be no shorter than the longest remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Term Loans;

 

96



 

(c)                                   such Incremental Term Loans may participate on a pro rata basis or a less than pro rata basis (but not greater than a pro rata basis) in any voluntary or mandatory repayments or prepayments of the Term Loans; and

 

(d)                                  subject to clauses (a) and (b) above, the amortization schedules applicable to such Incremental Term Loans will be as determined by the Borrowers and the Incremental Lenders providing such Incremental Term Loans.

 

(8)                                  Pricing .

 

(a)                                  Subject to clause (b) below, the interest rate, fees and original issue discount for any Incremental Term Loans will be as determined by the Borrowers and the Incremental Lenders providing such Incremental Term Loans;

 

(b)                                  If the yield (as determined below) on any such Incremental Term Loans incurred on or prior to the date that is twelve months after the Closing Date on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans (such yield, the “ Incremental Yield ”) exceeds the yield (as determined below) on any Initial Term Loans incurred on or before the Closing Date by more than 50 basis points, then the interest margins for such Initial Term Loans will automatically be increased to a level such that the yield on such Initial Term Loans will be 50 basis points below the Incremental Yield on such Incremental Term Loans, incurred on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans.  Any increase in yield on any Class of Term Loans required pursuant to this Section 2.18(8) and resulting from the application of an Adjusted LIBO Rate or ABR “floor” on any Incremental Term Loans will be effected solely through an increase in such “floor” (or an implementation thereof, as applicable) in respect of such Class of Term Loans.  In determining whether the Incremental Yield on Incremental Term Loan on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans exceeds the yield on any Initial Term Loans incurred on or before the Closing Date by more than 50 basis points, (A) such determination will take into account interest margins (and any coupon payable, if applicable), minimum Adjusted LIBO Rate, minimum ABR, upfront fees and original issue discount on such Initial Term Loans or such other Indebtedness, with upfront fees and original issue discount being equated to interest margins or coupon based on an assumed four-year life to maturity, but will exclude any arrangement, syndication, structuring, ticking, commitment, placement, underwriting, or other fees payable in connection therewith that is (A) with respect to ticking or commitment fees, are paid only to arrangers or underwriting lenders or, (B) otherwise, not customarily shared among the applicable lenders or holders of such Indebtedness on a pro rata basis and (B) (x) with respect to the Initial Term Loans incurred on the Closing Date, to the extent the LIBO Rate on the closing date of the Incremental Facility is less than any LIBO Rate floor then applicable to such Initial Term Loans, the amount of such difference shall be deemed added to the applicable rate for such Initial Term Loans solely for the purposes of determining whether an increase in the interest margins for such Initial Term Loans shall be required and (y) with respect to any Incremental Term Loans, to the extent that the LIBO Rate or any equivalent definition thereof on the closing date of the Incremental Facility is less than any

 

97



 

interest rate floor, if any, applicable to the Incremental Term Loans, the amount of such difference shall be deemed added to the applicable rate for such Incremental Term Loans solely for the purposes of determining the Incremental Yield; provided , that for purposes of calculating the LIBO Rate or any such equivalent definition for this clause (B), such rate shall be for the same interest period, which shall be determined by the Borrower from the interest periods available to it under this Agreement and such Indebtedness respectively.

 

(9)                                  Use of Proceeds .  The proceeds of the Incremental Term Loans shall be used for general corporate purposes of Holdings, the Borrowers and its Subsidiaries (including, without limitation, Investments (including acquisitions), Capital Expenditures, Restricted Payments, refinancings and any other transactions not prohibited hereunder).

 

SECTION 2.19.    Other Term Loans .

 

(1)                                  Other Term Loans .  Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness may, at the election of the Borrowers, take the form of new Term Loans under an additional Term Facility hereunder (“ Other Term Loans ”) pursuant to a Refinancing Amendment.

 

(2)                                  Refinancing Amendments .  The effectiveness of any Refinancing Amendment will be subject only to the satisfaction on the date thereof of such of the conditions set forth in Section 4.01 as may be requested by the providers of Other Term Loans.  The Administrative Agent will promptly notify each Lender as to the effectiveness of each Refinancing Amendment.  Each of the parties hereto hereby agrees that, upon the effectiveness of any Refinancing Amendment, this Agreement will be deemed amended to the extent (but only to the extent) necessary to reflect the existence and terms of the Other Term Loans incurred pursuant thereto (including any amendments necessary to treat the Term Loans subject thereto as Other Term Loans).

 

(3)                                  Required Consents .  Any Refinancing Amendment may, without the consent of any Person other than the Administrative Agent, the Borrowers and the Lenders or Additional Lenders providing Other Term Loans, effect such amendments to this Agreement and the other Loan Documents as may be necessary or appropriate, in the reasonable opinion of the Administrative Agent and the Borrowers, to effect the provisions of this Section 2.19.  This Section 2.19 supersedes any provisions in Section 10.08 to the contrary.

 

(4)                                  Providers of Other Term Loans .  Any Lender approached to provide all or a portion of Other Term Loans may elect or decline, in its sole discretion, to provide such Other Term Loans (it being understood that there is no obligation to approach any existing Lenders to provide Other Term Loans).  The consent of the Administrative Agent (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned) will be required in respect of any Person providing Other Term Loans if such consent would be required under Section 10.04 for an assignment of Term Loans to such Person.

 

98



 

SECTION 2.20.    Extensions of Term Loans .

 

(1)                                  Extension Offers .  Pursuant to one or more offers (each, an “ Extension Offer ”) made from time to time by the Borrowers to all Lenders of Term Loans with a like Maturity Date, the Borrowers may extend the Maturity Date of Term Loans and otherwise modify the terms of Term Loans pursuant to the terms set forth in the relevant Extension Offer (each, an “ Extension ,” and each group of Term Loans so extended, as well as the original Term Loans not so extended, being a “ tranche ”).  Each Extension Offer will specify the minimum amount of Term Loans with respect to which an Extension Offer may be accepted, which will be an integral multiple of $1.0 million and an aggregate principal amount that is not less than $10.0 million (or (a) if less, the aggregate principal amount of such Term Loans or (b) such lesser minimum amount as is approved by the Administrative Agent, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, conditioned or delayed), and will be made on a pro rata basis to all Lenders of Term Loans with a like Maturity Date.  If the aggregate outstanding principal amount of Term Loans (calculated on the face amount thereof) in respect of which Lenders have accepted an Extension Offer exceeds the maximum aggregate principal amount of Term Loans offered to be extended pursuant to an Extension Offer, then the Term Loans of such Lenders will be extended ratably up to such maximum amount based on the respective principal amounts (but not to exceed actual holdings of record) with respect to which such Lenders have accepted such Extension Offer.  There is no requirement that any Extension Offer or Extension Amendment (defined as follows) be subject to any “most favored nation” pricing provisions.  Each Lender accepting an Extension Offer is referred to herein as an “ Extending Term Lender ,” and the Term Loans held by such Lender accepting an Extension Offer is referred to herein as “ Extended Term Loans .”

 

(2)                                  Extension Amendments .  The Lenders hereby irrevocably authorize the Administrative Agent to enter into amendments to this Agreement and the other Loan Documents (an “ Extension Amendment ”) with the Borrowers as may be necessary in order to establish new tranches in respect of Term Loans extended pursuant to an Extension Offer and such technical amendments as may be necessary or appropriate in the reasonable opinion of the Administrative Agent and the Borrowers in connection with the establishment of such new tranches.  This Section 2.20 supersedes any provisions in Section 10.08 to the contrary.  Except as otherwise set forth in an Extension Offer, there will be no conditions to the effectiveness of an Extension Amendment. Extensions will not constitute a voluntary or mandatory payment or prepayment for purposes of this Agreement. Nonetheless, as regards any documents executed in Spain, if legally required to do so, the Lenders shall grant a specific power of attorney in favor of the Agents, duly notarized and apostilled or legalized (as applicable), in order to authorize the Agents to execute any such additional documents or amendments that is necessary to reflect the Extension Amendment or shall otherwise appear before the notary together with the Agents to execute any such documents.

 

(3)                                  Terms of Extension Offers and Extension Amendments .  The terms of any Extended Term Loans will be set forth in an Extension Offer and as agreed between the Borrowers and the Extended Term Lenders accepting such Extension Offer; provided that:

 

(a)                                  the final maturity date of such Extended Term Loans will be no earlier than the Latest Maturity Date of the Term Loans subject to such Extension Offer;

 

99



 

(b)                                  the Weighted Average Life to Maturity of such Extended Term Loans will be no shorter than the remaining Weighted Average Life to Maturity of the Term Loans subject to such Extension Offer;

 

(c)                                   such Extended Term Loans may participate on a pro rata basis or a less than pro rata basis (but not greater than a pro rata basis) in any voluntary or mandatory repayments or prepayments of Term Loans;

 

(d)                                  such Extended Term Loans are not secured by any assets or property that does not constitute Collateral;

 

(e)                                   such Extended Term Loans are not guaranteed by any Subsidiary of the Borrowers other than a Subsidiary Loan Party; and

 

(f)                                    except as to pricing terms (interest rate, fees, funding discounts and prepayment premiums) and maturity, the terms and conditions of such Extended Term Loans are substantially identical to (including as to ranking and priority), or, taken as a whole, no more favorable to the lenders or holders providing such Indebtedness than, those applicable to the Term Loans subject to such Extension Offer, as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of the Borrower.

 

Any Extended Term Loans will constitute a separate tranche of Term Loans from the Term Loans held by Lenders that did not accept the applicable Extension Offer.

 

(4)                                  Required Consents .  No consent of any Lender or any other Person will be required to effectuate any Extension, other than the consent of the Administrative Agent (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned), the Borrowers and the applicable Extending Term Lender.  The transactions contemplated by this Section 2.20 (including, for the avoidance of doubt, payment of any interest, fees or premium in respect of any Extended Term Loans on such terms as may be set forth in the relevant Extension Offer) will not require the consent of any other Lender or any other Person, and the requirements of any provision of this Agreement (including Sections 2.08 and 2.15) or any other Loan Document that may otherwise prohibit any such Extension or any other transaction contemplated by this Section 2.20 will not apply to any of the transactions effected pursuant to this Section 2.20.

 

SECTION 2.21.    Repricing Event .  In the event that, prior to [  ],(2) any Borrowers refinance or makes any prepayment of, or amends the terms of, of the Initial Term Loans in connection with any Repricing Event (or causes of the Initial Term Loans to be mandatorily assigned pursuant to the terms of Section 2.16(3) or 10.04(7) hereof, in each case, in connection with a Repricing Event), the Borrowers will pay to the Administrative Agent, for the ratable account of each applicable Lender, a payment of 1.00% of the aggregate principal amount of any such Term Loans so refinanced, prepaid or amended (or subject to mandatory assignment), as the case may be.

 


(2)  NTD: Date to be six months from the date of allocation.

 

100


 

ARTICLE III

 

Representations and Warranties

 

(a) On the Closing Date and on the date of any subsequent Borrowing of Loans (but excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, any continuation of any Interest Period or conversion of any Type of loans hereunder) hereunder, each of the Borrowers, with respect to itself and each of the Restricted Subsidiaries, and Holdings hereby represent and warrant to each Agent and to each of the Lenders, that:

 

SECTION 3.01.            Organization; Powers .  Each of Holdings, the Borrowers and each Restricted Subsidiary:

 

(1)                                  is a partnership, limited liability company, unlimited liability company, company, corporation, or trust duly organized, validly existing or incorporated and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization or incorporation (to the extent such status or an analogous concept applies to such an organization);

 

(2)                                  has all requisite power and authority to own its property and assets and to carry on its business as now conducted;

 

(3)                                  is qualified to do business in each jurisdiction where such qualification is required, except where the failure to so qualify would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; and

 

(4)                                  has the power and authority to execute, deliver and perform its obligations under each of the Loan Documents and each other agreement or instrument contemplated thereby to which it is a party and, in the case of the Borrowers, to borrow and otherwise obtain credit hereunder.

 

SECTION 3.02.            Authorization .  The execution, delivery and performance by the Loan Parties of each of the Loan Documents to which it is a party, the Borrowings hereunder and the Transactions to be consummated on the Closing Date:

 

(1)                                  have been duly authorized by all corporate, stockholder, partnership, limited liability company or other applicable action required to be taken by the Loan Parties; and

 

(2)                                  will not:

 

(a)                                  violate:

 

(i)                                      any provision (A) of law, statute, rule or regulation, or (B) of the certificate or articles of incorporation or association or other constitutive documents (including any partnership, limited liability company or operating agreement or by-laws) of any Loan Party;

 

101



 

(ii)                                   any applicable order of any court or any rule, regulation or order of any Governmental Authority; or

 

(iii)                                any provision of any indenture, certificate of designation for preferred stock, agreement or other instrument to which any Loan Party is a party or by which any of them or any of their property is or may be bound;

 

(b)                                  be in conflict with, result in a breach of, constitute (alone or with notice or lapse of time or both) a default under, or give rise to a right of or result in any cancellation or acceleration of any right or obligation (including any payment) or to a loss of a material benefit under, any such indenture, certificate of designation for preferred stock, agreement or other instrument; or

 

(c)                                   result in the creation or imposition of any Lien upon any property or assets of any Loan Party, other than the Liens created by the Loan Documents and Permitted Liens;

 

except with respect to clause (a)(i)(B) of this Section 3.02(2), as would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

SECTION 3.03.            Enforceability .  This Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by Holdings and the Borrowers and constitutes, and each other Loan Document when executed and delivered by each Loan Party that is party thereto will constitute, a legal, valid and binding obligation of such Loan Party enforceable against each such Loan Party in accordance with its terms, subject to any applicable Legal Reservations and any other perfection requirements specifically set out in the Security Documents.

 

SECTION 3.04.            Governmental Approvals .  No action, consent or approval of, registration or filing with or any other action by any Governmental Authority or third party is or will be required in connection with the extensions of credit hereunder or with the execution, delivery, performance, validity or enforceability of the Loan Documents, the perfection or maintenance of the Liens created under the Security Documents or the exercise by the Administrative Agent or any Lender of its rights under the Loan Documents or the remedies in respect of the Collateral, except for:

 

(1)                                  the filings referred to in Section 3.14 and in the Security Documents;

 

(2)                                  filings as may be required under the Exchange Act and applicable stock exchange rules in connection therewith;

 

(3)                                  such as have been made or obtained and are in full force and effect;

 

(4)                                  such actions, consents and approvals the failure of which to be obtained or made would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; or

 

(5)                                  filings or other actions listed on Schedule 3.04.

 

102



 

SECTION 3.05.            Title to Properties; Possession Under Leases .

 

(1)                                  Each of Holdings, Borrowers and the Subsidiary Loan Parties has good and valid fee simple title to, or valid leasehold interests in, or easements or licenses or other limited property interests in, all of its Real Properties and valid title to its personal property and assets, in each case, except for Permitted Liens or defects in title that do not materially interfere with its ability to conduct its business as currently conducted or to utilize such properties and assets for their intended purposes, in each case, except where the failure to have such title, interest, easement, license or right would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.  All such properties and assets are free and clear of Liens, other than Permitted Liens.

 

(2)                                  Neither Holdings nor any of the Restricted Subsidiaries has defaulted under any lease to which it is a party, except for such defaults as would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.  Each of Holdings’ and the Restricted Subsidiaries’ leases is in full force and effect, except leases in respect of which the failure to be in full force and effect would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as set forth on Schedule 3.05(2), on the Closing Date Holdings and each of the Restricted Subsidiaries enjoys peaceful and undisturbed possession under all such leases, other than leases in respect of which the failure to enjoy peaceful and undisturbed possession would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

SECTION 3.06.            Subsidiaries .

 

(1)                                  Schedule 3.06(1) sets forth as of the Closing Date the name and jurisdiction of incorporation, formation or organization of Holdings, the Borrowers and each Restricted Subsidiary and, as to each Restricted Subsidiary, the percentage of each class of Equity Interests owned by Holdings or by any other Subsidiary of Holdings.

 

(2)                                  As of the Closing Date, except as set forth on Schedule 3.06(2), there are no outstanding subscriptions, options, warrants, calls, or similar rights, agreements or commitments relating to any Equity Interests owned or held by Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary.

 

SECTION 3.07.            Litigation; Compliance with Laws .

 

(1)                                  There are no actions, suits or proceedings at law or in equity or by or on behalf of any Governmental Authority or in arbitration now pending, or, to the knowledge of Holdings or any Borrower, threatened in writing against or affecting Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary or any business, property or rights of any such Person, in each case, which would reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(2)                                  To the knowledge of Holdings and the Borrowers, none of Holdings, any Restricted Subsidiary or their respective properties or assets is in violation of (nor will the continued operation of their material properties and assets as currently conducted violate) any law,

 

103



 

rule or regulation (including any zoning, building, ordinance, code or approval, or any building permit) or any restriction of record or agreement affecting any property, or is in default with respect to any judgment, writ, injunction or decree of any Governmental Authority, where such violation or default would reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

SECTION 3.08.            Federal Reserve Regulations .

 

(1)                                  None of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary is engaged principally, or as one of its important activities, in the business of extending credit for the purpose of purchasing or carrying Margin Stock.

 

(2)                                  No part of the proceeds of any Term Loan will be used, whether directly or indirectly, and whether immediately, incidentally or ultimately, (i) to purchase or carry Margin Stock or to extend credit to others for the purpose of purchasing or carrying Margin Stock or to refund Indebtedness originally incurred for such purpose or (ii) for any purpose that entails a violation of, or that is inconsistent with, the provisions of the Regulations of the Board, including Regulations T, U or X.

 

SECTION 3.09.            Investment Company Act .  None of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Guarantor is an “investment company” as defined in, or subject to regulation under, the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

 

SECTION 3.10.            Use of Proceeds .  The Borrowers shall only use the proceeds of the Initial Term Loans to make payments in respect of the Transactions.

 

SECTION 3.11.            Tax Returns .  Except as set forth on Schedule 3.11:

 

(1)                                  Except as would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect, each of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries has filed or caused to be filed all federal, state, local and non-U.S. Tax returns required to have been filed by it; and

 

(2)                                  Each of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries has timely paid or caused to be timely paid (a) all Taxes shown to be due and payable by it (taking into account any applicable extension) on the returns referred to in clause (1) of this Section 3.11 and (b) all other Taxes or assessments (or made adequate provision (in accordance with GAAP or in the case of any such Restricted Subsidiary that is a Foreign Subsidiary, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in effect from time to time in such Restricted Subsidiary’s jurisdiction of organization) for the payment of all Taxes due) with respect to all periods or portions thereof ending on or before the Closing Date, which Taxes, if not paid or adequately provided for, would, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, in each case except Taxes or assessments that are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and for which Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary (as the case may be) has set aside on its books adequate reserves in accordance with GAAP.

 

104



 

SECTION 3.12.            No Material Misstatements .

 

(1)                                  All written factual information and written factual data (other than the Projections, estimates and information of a general economic or industry specific nature) concerning Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary that has been made available to the Administrative Agent or the Lenders, directly or indirectly, by or on behalf of Holdings, any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with the Transactions, when taken as a whole and after giving effect to all supplements and updates provided thereto, is correct in all material respects and does not contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements contained therein not materially misleading in light of the circumstances under which such statements are made.

 

(2)                                  The Projections that have been made available to the Administrative Agent or the Lenders by or on behalf of Holdings or the Borrowers in connection with the Transactions, when taken as a whole, have been prepared in good faith based upon assumptions that are believed by Holdings or the Borrowers to be reasonable at the time made and at the time delivered to the Administrative Agent or the Lenders, it being understood by the Administrative Agent and the Lenders that:

 

(a)                                  the Projections are merely a prediction as to future events and are not to be viewed as facts;

 

(b)                                  the Projections are subject to significant uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are beyond the control of Holdings, the Borrowers or the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(c)                                   no assurance can be given that any particular Projections will be realized; and

 

(d)                                  actual results may differ and such differences may be material.

 

SECTION 3.13.            Environmental Matters .  Except as set forth on Schedule 3.13 or as to matters that would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect:

 

(1)                                  Holdings, the Borrowers and each of the Restricted Subsidiaries are in compliance with all, and have not violated any, Environmental Laws (including having obtained and complied with all permits, licenses, authorizations and other approvals required under any Environmental Law for the operation of its business);

 

(2)                                  neither Holdings, the Borrowers nor any Restricted Subsidiary has received notice of or is subject to any pending, or to Holdings or any Borrower’s knowledge, threatened action, suit or proceeding alleging a violation of, or liability under, any Environmental Law or regarding Hazardous Materials that remains outstanding or unresolved;

 

(3)                                  no Hazardous Material is located at, on or under any property currently or, to Holdings or any Borrower’s knowledge, formerly owned, operated or leased by Holdings or any

 

105



 

Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary and no Hazardous Material has been generated, owned, treated, stored, handled or controlled by Holdings, any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary or transported to or Released at any location which, in each case, described in this clause (3), is in violation of Environmental Laws or would reasonably be expected to result in liability to Holdings, any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary; and

 

(4)                                  there are no agreements in which Holdings, any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary has assumed or undertaken responsibility for any known or reasonably anticipated liability or obligation of any other Person arising under or relating to Environmental Laws or relating to Hazardous Materials.

 

SECTION 3.14.            Security Documents .

 

(1)                                  The US Collateral Agreement and each other Security Document are effective upon the execution thereof to create in favor of the Collateral Agent (for the benefit of the Secured Parties) legal and valid Liens on the Collateral described therein, subject to the Legal Reservations; and, with respect to (i) the UK Loan Parties when registration of particulars of each Security Document granted by a UK Loan Party at Companies House in England and Wales in accordance with Part 25 (Company Charges) of the Companies Act 2006 (UK) or any regulations relating to the registration of charges made under, or applying the provisions of, the Companies Act 2006 (UK) and payment of associated fees; and (ii) the US Loan Parties when financing statements in appropriate form are filed in the offices specified on Schedule III to the US Collateral Agreement is properly filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office or the United States Copyright Office, as applicable, and the US Pledged Collateral described in the US Collateral Agreement is delivered to the Collateral Agent, together with duly executed and prepared stock powers, the Liens on the Collateral granted pursuant to the US Collateral Agreement will constitute fully perfected Liens on all right, title and interest of the US Loan Parties in such Collateral in which (and to the extent) a security interest can be perfected under Article 9 of the Uniform Commercial Code and the United States Copyright Act, in each case prior to and superior in right of the Lien of any other Person (except for Permitted Liens);and (iii) the French Loan Parties, upon execution of the necessary statement of pledge (declaration de nantissement de compte de titres financiers) in respect of any French law pledge over shares, and, upon filling of the share pledge at the relevant company register to the extent necessary depending on the type of shares pledged.

 

(2)                                  With respect to the US Loan Parties, when financing statements in appropriate form are filed in the offices specified on Schedule III to the US Collateral Agreement and the US Collateral Agreement or a summary thereof and the Intellectual Property Security Agreements are properly filed in the United States Patent and Trademark Office or the United States Copyright Office, as applicable, the Liens on the Collateral granted pursuant to the US Collateral Agreement shall constitute fully perfected Liens on all right, title and interest of the Loan Parties thereunder in the domestic Intellectual Property Rights, in each case prior and superior in right to the Lien of any other Person (except for Permitted Liens) (it being understood that subsequent recordings in the United States Patent and Trademark Office or the United States Copyright Office may be necessary to

 

106



 

perfect a Lien on registered trademarks and patents, trademark and patent applications, and will be necessary to perfect a Lien on registered copyrights, in each case acquired by the US Loan Parties after the Closing Date).

 

(3)                                  Notwithstanding anything herein (including this Section 3.14) or in any other Loan Document to the contrary, other than with respect to Equity Interests of a Foreign Subsidiary organized in a Specified Foreign Jurisdiction with respect to which security interest has been granted pursuant to a Security Document, neither Holdings, the Borrowers nor any other Loan Party makes any representation or warranty as to the effects of perfection or non-perfection, the priority or the enforceability of any pledge of or security interest in any Equity Interests of any Foreign Subsidiary, or as to the rights and remedies of the Agents or any Lender with respect thereto, under foreign law.

 

SECTION 3.15.            Location of Real Property .   Schedule 3.15 correctly identifies, in all material respects, as of the Closing Date, all Owned Material Real Property owned in fee by the Loan Parties.  As of the Closing Date, the Loan Parties own in fee all the Real Property set forth on Schedule 3.15.

 

SECTION 3.16.            Solvency .  On the Closing Date, after giving effect to the consummation of the Transactions and after giving effect to the application of the proceeds of the Term Loans:

 

(1)                                  the Fair Value of the assets of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries taken as a whole exceeds their Liabilities;

 

(2)                                  the Present Fair Salable Value of the assets of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries taken as a whole exceeds their Liabilities;

 

(3)                                  Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries taken as a whole do not have Unreasonably Small Capital; and

 

(4)                                  Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries taken as a whole will be able to pay their Liabilities as they mature.

 

For purposes of this Section 3.16, (a) “ Fair Value ” of the assets of any Persons means the amount at which the assets (both tangible and intangible), in their entirety, of such Persons taken as a whole would change hands between a willing buyer and a willing seller, within a commercially reasonable period of time, each having reasonable knowledge of the relevant facts, with neither being under any compulsion to act; (b) “ Present Fair Salable Value ” of the assets of any Persons means the amount that could be obtained by an independent willing seller from an independent willing buyer if the assets of such Persons taken as a whole are sold with reasonable promptness in an arm’s-length transaction under present conditions for the sale of comparable business enterprises insofar as such conditions can be reasonably evaluated; (c) “ Liabilities ” of any Persons means the recorded liabilities (including contingent liabilities that would be recorded in accordance with GAAP) of such Persons taken as a whole, as of the Closing Date after giving effect to the consummation of the Transactions, in each case determined in accordance with GAAP consistently applied; (d) “ will be able to pay their Liabilities as they

 

107



 

mature ” for any Persons means, , such Persons taken as a whole will have sufficient assets and cash flow to pay their Liabilities as those liabilities mature or (in the case of contingent Liabilities) otherwise become payable, in light of business conducted or anticipated to be conducted by such Persons as reflected in the projected financial statements and in light of the anticipated credit capacity; and (e) “ do not have Unreasonably Small Capital ” for any Persons means such Persons taken as a whole, after consummation of the Transactions, is a going concern and has sufficient capital to reasonably ensure that it will continue to be a going concern.

 

SECTION 3.17.            No Material Adverse Effect .  Since the end of the most recent fiscal year of Holdings ended at least 90 days prior to the Closing Date, there has been no event that has had, or would reasonably be expected to have, either individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

SECTION 3.18.            Insurance .  Schedule 3.18 sets forth a true, complete and correct description of all material insurance maintained by or on behalf of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary as of the Closing Date.  As of such date, such insurance is in full force and effect.

 

SECTION 3.19.            USA PATRIOT Act; FCPA; OFAC; Anti-Terrorism .

 

(1)                                  To the extent applicable, each of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries are in compliance, in all material respects, with the USA PATRIOT Act, FCPA and all applicable Anti-Terrorism Laws that are applicable to such Person.

 

(2)                                  None of (i) the Loan Parties or any director, officer, or employee of the Loan Parties, or (ii) to the knowledge of any Loan Party, any agent that will act in any capacity in connection with or benefit from the Term Facility established hereby of the Loan Parties is a Person that is: (a) a Sanctioned Person; or (b) located, organized or resident in a Sanctioned Country.

 

(3)                                  No part of the proceeds of the Term Loans will be used by Holdings, any Borrower or any of their respective Subsidiaries, directly or, to the knowledge of Holdings, any Borrower or any of their respective Subsidiaries, indirectly, (a) for any payments to any governmental official or employee, political party, official of a political party, candidate for political office or anyone else acting in an official capacity, in order to obtain, retain or direct business or obtain any improper advantage, in violation of the United States Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 (“ FCPA ”) to the extent applicable to such Person, (b) to fund any activities or business of or with any Sanctioned Person or in any Sanctioned Country, or (c) in any manner that would result in a violation of any applicable Anti-Terrorism Law or Sanctions by Holdings, the Borrowers or their respective Subsidiaries, to the extent applicable to such Person.

 

(4)                                  (i) Holdings and the Borrowers have implemented and maintain in effect policies and procedures designed to reasonably ensure compliance by Holdings, the Borrowers and their respective Subsidiaries and their respective directors, officers, employees and agents

 

108



 

with applicable Anti-Corruption Laws and applicable Sanctions in all material respects, (ii)  Holdings, the Borrowers and their respective Subsidiaries and their respective officers and directors and to the knowledge of Holdings, its employees and agents, are in compliance with applicable Anti-Corruption Laws and applicable Sanctions in all material respects and are not knowingly engaged in any activity that would reasonably be expected to result in any Borrower being designated as a Sanctioned Person, (iii) none of (a) Holdings the Borrower, any Subsidiary or any of their respective directors, officers or employees, or (b) to the knowledge of Holdings, any agent of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Subsidiary that will act in any capacity in connection with or benefit from the credit facility established hereby, is a Sanctioned Person.

 

(5)                                  The representations and warranties given in this Section 3.19 shall not be made by nor apply to any German Loan Party in so far as they would violate or expose any German Loan Party or any of its Subsidiaries or any director, officer or employee thereof to any liability under any anti-boycott or blocking law, regulation or statute that is in force from time to time and applicable to such entity (including without limitation EU Regulation (EC) 2271/96 and Section 7 of the German Foreign Trade Ordinance (Verordnung zur Durchführung des Außenwirtschaftsgesetzes ( Außenwirtschaftsverordnung — AWV )).

 

SECTION 3.20.            Intellectual Property; Licenses, Etc .  Except as set forth on Schedule 3.20:

 

(1)                                  except as would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, Holdings and each Restricted Subsidiary owns, or possesses the right to use, all Intellectual Property Rights that are used in or reasonably necessary for the operation of their respective businesses, free and clear of all Liens except for Permitted Liens, and without conflict with the rights of any other Person;

 

(2)                                  except as would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, neither the operation of the respective businesses of Holdings nor any of the Restricted Subsidiaries nor their use of any Intellectual Property Rights, product, process, method, substance, part or other material now held for use, employed, sold or offered by any Borrower or the Restricted Subsidiaries is infringing upon, misappropriating or otherwise violating Intellectual Property Rights of any Person;

 

(3)                                  no claim or litigation regarding any of the foregoing is pending or, to the knowledge of Holdings or any Borrower, threatened; and

 

(4)                                  except as would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, to the knowledge of Holdings and the Borrowers, no Person is infringing the Intellectual Property Rights owned by Holdings nor any of the Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

SECTION 3.21.            Employee Benefit Plans .  Each Plan is in compliance in all material respects with its terms and the applicable provisions of ERISA and the Code and the regulations and published interpretations thereunder.  No ERISA Event has occurred or is reasonably expected to occur that, when taken together with all other such ERISA Events, would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  Except as would not reasonably be

 

109



 

expected to have a Material Adverse Effect, the present value of all accumulated benefit obligations under all Plans (based on the assumptions used for purposes of Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 87) did not, as of the date of the most recent financial statements reflecting such amounts, exceed the fair market value of the assets of such Plans, in the aggregate.

 

SECTION 3.22.            EEA Financial Institution .  No Loan Party is an EEA Financial Institution.

 

SECTION 3.23.            Pensions .

 

(1)                                  To the knowledge of Holdings and the Borrowers, any pension schemes operated by or maintained for the benefit of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries and/or any of their employees are to the extent required by applicable law fully funded if failure to do so would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(2)                                  The Canadian Subsidiaries are in compliance with the requirements of the Pension Benefits Act (Ontario) and other federal or provincial laws with respect to each Canadian Pension Plan, except where the failure to comply would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.  No fact or situation that may reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect exists in connection with any Canadian Pension Plan.  As of the Closing Date, none of the Canadian Subsidiaries maintain, administer, contribute or have any liability in respect of any Canadian Defined Benefit Plans or, in the last 5 years, have ever contributed, maintained or administered any Canadian Defined Benefit Plan governed by the Pension Benefits Act (Ontario).   No lien has arisen, choate or inchoate, in respect of any Canadian Borrower, Canadian Guarantor or their Subsidiaries or their property in connection with any Canadian Pension Plan (save for contribution amounts not yet due).

 

(3)                                  Except with respect to the Specified UK Plans, no UK Loan Party: (a) is or has at any time been an employer (as defined for the purposes of sections 38 to 51 of the Pensions Act 2004) of an occupational pension scheme that which is not a money purchase scheme (both terms as defined in the Pensions Scheme Act 1993); or (b) is or has at any time been “connected” with or an “associate” (as those terms are used in sections 38 and 43 of the Pensions Act 2004) of such an employer to the extent that it could result in a Contribution Notice or Financial Support Direction being issued to a UK Loan Party which has a Material Adverse Effect; and no UK Loan Party has been issued with a Financial Support Direction or Contribution Notice in respect of any UK defined benefit pension plan.

 

SECTION 3.24.            Centre of Main Interests and Establishments .  If its jurisdiction of organization is a member of the European Union, its COMI is, for the purposes of the EU Insolvency Regulation, situated in its jurisdiction of organization and it has no “establishment” (as that term is used in Article 2(10) of the EU Insolvency Regulation) in any other jurisdiction.

 

110


 

SECTION 3.25.            Borrowing Notice .  Prior to the making of the Initial Term Loan on the Closing Date, the Administrative Agent shall have received a Notice of Borrowing meeting the requirements of Section 2.02.

 

ARTICLE IV

 

Conditions of Lending

 

SECTION 4.01.            Conditions Precedent to Closing Date .  The agreement of each Lender to make Term Loans on the Closing Date is subject solely to the satisfaction or waiver by the Administrative Agent, prior to or substantially concurrently with the making of the Term Loans on the Closing Date, of the following conditions precedent:

 

(1)                                  Loan Documents .  The Administrative Agent shall have received:

 

(a)                                  this Agreement, dated as of the Closing Date, duly executed and delivered by Holdings and each Borrower.

 

(b)                                  the US Collateral Agreement, the Intercreditor Agreement and (except as set forth on Schedule 1.01(3) or Schedule 5.15) each other Loan Document, in each case, dated as of the Closing Date, duly executed and delivered by each of the Loan Parties party thereto.

 

(2)                                  Borrowing Request .  On or prior to the Closing Date, the Administrative Agent shall have received one or more Borrowing Requests.

 

(3)                                  Financial Statements .  The Administrative Agent shall have received (a) the unaudited consolidated balance sheets and related statements of income and cash flows of Holdings for each fiscal quarter (except for any such fiscal quarter ending as of the end of a fiscal year) ended after December 31, 2016 and at least 45 days prior to the Closing Date, (b) the audited consolidated balance sheets of Holdings as of December 31, 2016 and the related statements of income and cash flows for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2016 and (c) a pro forma consolidated balance sheet of Holdings (after giving effect to the Transactions) based on the historical balance sheet of Holdings as of the last day of the most recently completed fiscal quarter ended at least 45 days prior to the Closing Date, prepared so as to give effect to the Transactions as if the Transactions had occurred as of such date, which need not be prepared in compliance with Regulation S-X of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or include adjustments for purchase accounting, which in each case may be consistent with the financial statements set forth on the Form S-1 filed with the SEC with respect to the Initial Venator Distribution Transaction.

 

(4)                                  Fees .  Payment of (a) the upfront fee in respect of the Initial Term Loans and the administrative fee required to be paid pursuant to the Fee Letter, it being understood that such upfront fee may be netted against the proceeds of the Initial Term Loans and (b) all reasonable and documented out-of-pocket expenses required to be paid on the Closing Date pursuant to the Engagement Letter, in each case to the extent invoiced at least 3

 

111



 

Business Days prior to the Closing Date (or such later date as Holdings may reasonably agree).

 

(5)                                  Closing Date Certificate .  The Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate of a Responsible Officer of each Loan Party (other than any French Loan Party, Luxembourg Loan Party, Spanish Loan Party and German Loan Party) dated the Closing Date and certifying:

 

(a)                                  that attached thereto is (i) a true and complete copy of the charter, certificate of incorporation, certificate of incorporation on change of name or other similar organizational or constitutional document of such Loan Party, and each amendment thereto, certified (as of a date reasonably near the Closing Date and only where customary in the applicable jurisdiction) as being a true and correct copy thereof by the Secretary of State or other applicable Governmental Authority of the jurisdiction in which such Loan Party is organized and (ii) a true and correct copy of its bylaws, memorandum and articles of association or operating, management, partnership or similar agreement (to the extent applicable) and that such documents or agreements have not been amended since the date of the last amendment thereto;

 

(b)                                  that attached thereto is a certificate of good standing (or subsistence) with respect to such Loan Party (other than any UK Loan Party) from the Secretary of State or other applicable Governmental Authority of the jurisdiction in which such Loan Party is organized (to the extent customarily provided and available in the jurisdiction of organization of such Loan Party);

 

(c)                                   that attached thereto is a true and complete copy of resolutions duly adopted by the Board of Directors (or equivalent body in the relevant jurisdiction of such Loan Party including if required by law in any applicable jurisdiction, a copy of the resolutions of its shareholders meeting) of such Loan Party authorizing the execution, delivery and performance of the Loan Documents to which it is a party or any other document delivered in connection herewith on the Closing Date and certifying that such resolutions have not been modified, rescinded or amended and are in full force and effect;

 

(d)                                  where applicable, in the case of each UK Loan Party (other than Holdings), that attached thereto is a true and complete copy of resolutions signed by all the holders of the issued shares in such UK Loan Party authorizing any necessary amendments to such UK Loan Party’s articles of association;

 

(e)                                   in respect of any Finnish Loan Party, a true and complete copy of resolutions of the shareholder(s) of such Finnish Loan Party approving and endorsing the resolutions of the Board of Directors of such Finnish Loan Party referenced in (c) above;

 

(f)                                    as to the incumbency and specimen signature of each Responsible Officer executing this Agreement and each other applicable Loan Document (together

 

112



 

with a certificate of another officer as to the incumbency and specimen signature of the Responsible Officer executing the certificate pursuant to this Section 4.01(5)) ; and

 

(g)                                   in the case of a UK Loan Party whose shares are the subject of a Lien in favour of the Collateral Agent (i) a certificate of that UK Loan Party certifying that no “warning notice” or “restrictions notice” (in each case as defined in Schedule 1B of the  Companies Act 2006) has been issued in respect of those shares, together with a copy of the “PSC register” (within the meaning of section 790C(10) of the Companies Act 2006) of that UK Loan Party, which is certified by a Responsible Officer of that UK Loan Party to be correct, complete and not amended or superseded as at a date no earlier than the date of this Agreement, or (ii) a certificate of that UK Loan Party certifying that such UK Loan Party is not required to comply with Part 21A of the Companies Act 2006.

 

(6)                                  Closing Date Certificate for German Loan Parties .  With respect to any German Loan Party, the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate of an authorized signatory of such German Loan Party dated the Closing Date and certifying:

 

(a)                                  that attached thereto is a true copy of (i) an electronic excerpt from the commercial register ( Handelsregisterauszug ) of recent date; (ii) a copy of the articles of association ( Satzung ) or partnership agreement ( Gesellschaftsvertrag ) and (iii) a copy of the list of the shareholders ( Gesellschafterliste ) (if applicable) relating to such German Loan Party;

 

(b)                                  that attached thereto is a true and complete copy of resolutions duly adopted by the shareholders of such German Loan Party authorizing the execution, delivery and performance of the Loan Documents to which it is a party or any other document delivered in connection herewith on the Closing Date and certifying that such resolutions have not been modified, rescinded or amended and are in full force and effect; and

 

(c)                                   that attached thereto are specimen signatures of the persons authorized to execute this Agreement and each other applicable Loan Document on behalf of the German Loan Party.

 

(7)                                  Closing Date Certificate for French Loan Parties .  With respect to any French Loan Party, the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate of the legal representative or an authorized signatory of such French Loan Party dated the Closing Date and certifying:

 

(a)                                  that attached thereto is a true, accurate and complete copy of (i) the up-to-date articles of association ( statuts ) of the French Loan Party; (ii) an original of a Kbis extract, an insolvency certificate ( certificat de non-faillite ) and lien searches ( état des privilèges et nantissements ) dated no more than fifteen (15) days from the Closing Date;

 

113



 

(b)                                  that attached thereto is a true and complete copy of resolutions duly adopted by the relevant body of such French Loan Party authorizing the execution, delivery and performance of the Loan Documents to which it is a party or any other document delivered in connection herewith on the Closing Date and certifying that such resolutions have not been modified, rescinded or amended and are in full force and effect;

 

(c)                                   if applicable, the attached thereto is a true and complete copy of the power of attorney granted by the legal representative of the French Loan Party authorizing one or several persons to execute, deliver and perform the Loan Documents to which the relevant French Loan Party is a party or any other document delivered in connection herewith on the Closing Date and certifying that such power of attorney has not been modified, rescinded or amended and is in full force and effect;

 

(d)                                  that attached thereto are specimen signatures of the persons authorized to execute this Agreement and each other applicable Loan Document on behalf of the French Loan Party; and

 

(e)                                   that guaranteeing or securing, in the guarantee limits set forth in Schedule 1.01(2) to the extent applicable, as appropriate, the Commitments would not cause any guarantee, security or similar limit binding on any French Loan Party to be exceeded.

 

(8)                                  Closing Date Certificate for Luxembourg Loan Parties .  With respect to any Luxembourg Loan Party, the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate of an authorized signatory of such Luxembourg Loan Party dated the Closing Date and certifying:

 

(a)                        that attached hereto is an up-to-date copy of an excerpt issued by the Luxembourg Register of Commerce and Companies (the “ RCS ”) one Business Day prior to the signature of this Agreement in respect of the Lux Borrower;

 

(b)                        that attached hereto is a complete and up-to-date copy of the articles of incorporation of the Lux Borrower which articles are in full force and effect.

 

(c)                         that attached hereto is a copy of a certificate of non-registration of a judicial decision in respect of the Company issued by the RCS two Business Days prior to the signature of this Agreement, stating that as of one Business Day prior to the signature of this Agreement, no judicial decision pursuant to which the Lux Borrower would be subject to one of the judicial proceedings referred to therein including, but not limited to, bankruptcy ( faillite ), controlled management ( gestion contrôlée ), reprieve from payments ( sursis de paiement ) or composition with creditors ( concordat préventif de la faillite ), has been registered with the RCS by application of article 13, items 2 to 12 and article 14 of the Luxembourg law of 19 December 2002 on the RCS and on the accounting and annual accounts of undertakings, as amended;

 

114



 

(d)                        that attached hereto is a complete copy of the resolutions  duly adopted by or on behalf of the Lux Borrower approving and authorizing the entry by the Lux Borrower into the Loan Documents and the performance of its obligations thereunder, which resolutions are in full force and effect;

 

(e)                         that each copy document listed above is correct, complete and in full force and effect and has not been amended or superseded as at a date no earlier than the date of this Agreement;

 

(f)                          that the persons whose name appear on an Exhibit  are the duly elected, qualified and acting directors of the Lux Borrower, and the signatures set forth opposite their respective name are the true and genuine signature of such managers; and

 

(g)                         that the borrowing, guaranteeing or securing, as the case may be, by the Lux Borrower, as a result of its entry into the Loan Documents and the performance of its obligations thereunder, will not cause any borrowing, guaranteeing, security or similar limit binding on it to be exceeded.

 

(h)                        that the Lux Borrower is not subject to bankruptcy ( faillite ), insolvency, voluntary or judicial liquidation ( liquidation volontaire ou judiciaire ), composition with creditors ( concordat préventif de la faillite ), reprieve from payment ( sursis de paiement ), controlled management ( gestion contrôlée ), or similar proceedings; that the Lux Borrower is not subject to, to the best of its knowledge,  conservatory measures such as attachment order ( saisie conservatoire ) or garnishment ( saisie attribution or saisie arrêt ) and that no application, petition, order or resolution has been made, or taken by the Lux Borrower or by, to the best of its knowledge, any other person for the appointment of a commissaire , curateur , liquidateur or similar officer for its administration, winding-up or similar proceedings.

 

(9)                                  Closing Date Certificate for Spanish Loan Parties .  With respect to any Spanish Loan Party, the Administrative Agent shall have received a certificate of an authorized signatory of such Spanish Loan Party dated the Closing Date and certifying:

 

(a)                                  that attached thereto is a true copy of (i) an up-to-date complete literal certificate ( certificación literal completa ) issued by the relevant Commercial Registry and (ii) (if applicable) a copy of any documents which should be registered with the Commercial Registry and are pending to be registered, if any;

 

(b)                                  that attached thereto is a true and complete copy of resolutions duly adopted and notarized by the Board of Directors (or the relevant body including if required by law a copy of the resolutions of its shareholders meeting duly notarized) of such Spanish Loan Party authorizing the execution, delivery and performance of the Loan Documents to which it is a party or any other document delivered in connection herewith on the Closing Date and certifying that such resolutions have not been modified, rescinded or amended and are in full force and effect; and

 

115



 

(c)                                   that attached thereto are specimen signatures of the persons authorized to execute this Agreement and each other applicable Loan Document on behalf of the Spanish Loan Party.

 

(10)                           Legal Opinions .  The Administrative Agent shall have received a customary legal opinion of (i) Latham & Watkins LLP, special New York and Delaware counsel to the Loan Parties and (ii) customary legal opinions of each counsel set forth on Schedule 4.01(3).

 

(11)                           Know Your Customer and Other Required Information .  The Administrative Agent shall have received at least three business days prior to the Closing Date all documentation and other information about the Loan Parties as has been reasonably requested in writing at least 10 days prior to the Closing Date by the Arrangers that they reasonably determine is required by regulatory authorities under applicable “know your customer” and anti-money laundering rules and regulations, including without limitation the PATRIOT Act and the Proceeds of Crime Act.

 

(12)                           Solvency Certificate .  The Administrative Agent shall have received a solvency certificate substantially in the form attached hereto as Exhibit B.

 

(13)                           Transactions .  The following transactions have been consummated or will be consummated substantially concurrently with the borrowing of the Initial Term Loans hereunder:

 

(a)                                  the Initial Venator Distribution Transaction;

 

(b)                                  the Senior Notes Documents to be executed on or prior to the Closing Date shall have been duly executed and delivered by each Loan Party party thereto and the Borrowers shall have received at least $[      ] in gross cash proceeds from the issuance of the Senior Notes;

 

(c)                                   the ABL Loan Documents required by the terms of the ABL Credit Agreement to be executed on or prior to the Closing Date shall have been duly executed and delivered by each Loan Party party thereto; and

 

(d)                                  the Huntsman Release.

 

(14)                           Pledged Equity Interests; Pledged Notes .  Except set forth on Schedule 1.01(3)  or Schedule 5.12 or as otherwise agreed by the Administrative Agent, to the extent included in the Collateral and required to be pledged pursuant to the Security Documents, the Administrative Agent shall have received the certificates representing the Equity Interests (if such Equity Interests are certificated) of the Loan Parties and the other outstanding Equity Interests (if such Equity Interests are certificated) owned by each Loan Party, in each case together with an undated stock power or stock transfer form for each such certificate executed in blank by a duly authorized officer of the pledgor thereof, to the extent applicable; and with respect to any French law pledge over shares granted by a Loan Party, the Administrative Agent shall have received a copy of the share transfer registers and shareholders’ accounts ( registres de mouvements de titres et comptes

 

116



 

d’actionnaires ) of the French registered company the shares of which are to be pledged under a Security Document, evidencing the registration of that share pledge in favor of the Collateral Agent.

 

(15)                           Perfection Certificate .  The Administrative Agent shall have received a completed Perfection Certificate with respect to the US Loan Parties dated as of the Closing Date and signed by a Responsible Officer of Holdings.

 

(16)                           No Material Adverse Effect .  There have not been any changes, circumstances, events or effects that, individually or in the aggregate, have had or would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(17)                           Representations and Warranties .  The representations and warranties in Article III hereof shall be true and correct in all material respects (except for representations and warranties that are already qualified by materiality, which representations and warranties shall be true and correct in all respects after giving effect to such qualification).

 

There are no conditions, implied or otherwise, to the making of Term Loans on the Closing Date other than as set forth in the preceding clauses (1) through (17) and upon satisfaction or waiver by the Administrative Agent of such conditions the Initial Term Loans will be made by the Initial Term Loan Lenders.

 

ARTICLE V

 

Affirmative Covenants

 

Holdings and the Borrowers covenant and agree with each Lender that so long as this Agreement is in effect and until the Commitments have been terminated and the Obligations (other than Obligations in respect of (i) Specified Hedge Agreements and (ii) contingent indemnification and reimbursement obligations that are not yet due and payable and for which no claim has been asserted) have been paid in full, unless the Required Lenders otherwise consent in writing, subject to Section 10.03(2) of this Agreement, Holdings and each Borrower will, and will cause its Restricted Subsidiaries, to:

 

SECTION 5.01.            Existence; Businesses and Properties .

 

(1)                                  Do or cause to be done all things necessary to preserve, renew and keep in full force and effect its legal existence, except:

 

(a)                                  in the case of a Restricted Subsidiary (other than a Borrower), where the failure to do so would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; or

 

(b)                                  in connection with a transaction permitted under Section 6.05.

 

(2)                                  (a) Do or cause to be done all things necessary to lawfully obtain, preserve, renew, extend and keep in full force and effect the permits, franchises, authorizations, Intellectual Property Rights, licenses and rights with respect thereto necessary to the normal conduct of its business and (b) at all times maintain and preserve all property necessary to the

 

117



 

normal conduct of its business and keep such property in good repair, working order and condition (ordinary wear and tear and casualty and condemnation excepted) and from time to time make, or cause to be made, all needful and proper repairs, renewals, additions, improvements and replacements thereto necessary in order that the business carried on in connection therewith, if any, may be properly conducted at all times, in each case, except:

 

(i)                                      as expressly permitted by this Agreement;

 

(ii)                                   such as may expire, be abandoned or lapse in the ordinary course of business; or

 

(iii)                                where the failure to do so would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

SECTION 5.02.            Insurance .

 

(1)                                  Maintain, with insurance companies reasonably believed to be financially sound and reputable, or through self-insurance (other than insurance of property loss, damage, and business interruption), insurance in such amounts and against such risks as are customarily maintained by similarly situated companies engaged in the same or similar businesses operating in the same or similar locations, and cause the Collateral Agent to be listed as a co-loss payee (and mortgagee in the case of owned Real Property) on property policies (including for casualty losses) and as an additional insured on liability policies in each case, with respect to jurisdictions outside of the United States, to the extent available and customary in such jurisdictions.  Holdings will furnish to the Administrative Agent or Collateral Agent, upon reasonable request, information in reasonable detail as to the insurance so maintained.

 

(2)                                  Use commercially reasonable efforts to:  (a) if insurance is procured from insurance companies, obtain certificates and endorsements (or in the case of insurance held by any UK Loan Party, insurance broker’s letters) reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent with respect to property and casualty insurance; (b) cause each insurance policy referred to in this Section 5.02 and procured from an insurance company to provide that it shall not be cancelled (x) by reason of nonpayment of premium except upon not less than 10 days’ prior written notice thereof by the insurer to the Administrative Agent (giving the Administrative Agent the right to cure defaults in the payment of premiums) or (y) for any other reason except upon not less than 30 days’ prior written notice thereof by the insurer to the Administrative Agent; and (c) deliver to the Administrative Agent, prior to the cancellation of any such policy of insurance, a copy of a renewal or replacement policy (or other evidence of renewal of a policy previously delivered to the Administrative Agent, including an insurance binder) together with evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent of payment of the premium therefor.

 

SECTION 5.03.            Taxes .  Pay and discharge promptly when due all material Taxes imposed upon it or its income or profits or in respect of its property, before the same becomes delinquent or in default; provided that such payment and discharge will not be required

 

118



 

with respect to any Tax if (1) the validity or amount thereof is being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and (2) Holdings, the Borrowers or any affected Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, has set aside on its books reserves in accordance with GAAP (or in the case of any such Restricted Subsidiary that is a Foreign Subsidiary, in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in effect from time to time in such Restricted Subsidiary’s jurisdiction of organization) with respect thereto.

 

SECTION 5.04.            Financial Statements, Reports, etc .  Furnish to the Administrative Agent (which will promptly furnish such information to the Lenders):

 

(1)                                  Within 120 days following the end of the first fiscal year ended after the Closing Date, and within 90 days following the end of each fiscal year thereafter, a consolidated balance sheet and related statements of operations, cash flows and owners’ equity showing the financial position of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries as of the close of such fiscal year and the consolidated results of its operations during such fiscal year and, in each case, starting with the following fiscal year, setting forth in comparative form the corresponding figures for the prior fiscal year, which consolidated balance sheet and related statements of operations, cash flows and owners’ equity will be audited by independent public accountants of recognized national standing, or such other accountants as are reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, and accompanied by an opinion of such accountants (which opinion shall not be subject to any “going concern” statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception (other than a “going concern” statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception resulting solely from an upcoming maturity date under the ABL Facility or the Term Facility occurring within one year from the time such opinion is delivered or anticipated (but not actual) financial covenant non-compliance under the ABL Facility); provided that any such statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception resulting from the actual inability to satisfy a financial covenant in the ABL Facility shall be treated as a Financial Covenant Default for the purposes of Article VIII) to the effect that such consolidated financial statements fairly present, in all material respects, the financial position and results of operations of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP (the applicable financial statements delivered pursuant to this clause (1) being the “ Annual Financial Statements ”);

 

(2)                                  Within 75 days following the end of the first fiscal quarter ended after the Closing Date, and within 60 days following the end of the second fiscal quarter ended after the Closing Date (unless in each case such fiscal quarter is the last fiscal quarter of a fiscal year, in which case this clause (2) does not apply to such last fiscal quarter), and, thereafter, within 45 days following the end of each of the first three fiscal quarters of each fiscal year, a consolidated balance sheet and related statements of operations and cash flows showing the financial position of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries as of the close of such fiscal quarter and the consolidated results of its operations during such fiscal quarter and, in each case, the then-elapsed portion of the fiscal year and, starting with the second fiscal year after the Closing Date, setting forth in comparative form the corresponding figures for the corresponding periods of the prior fiscal year, which consolidated balance sheet and related statements of operations and cash flows will be certified by a Responsible Officer of Holdings on behalf of Holdings as fairly presenting,

 

119



 

in all material respects, the financial position and results of operations of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis in accordance with GAAP, subject to normal year-end audit adjustments and the absence of footnotes (the applicable financial statements delivered pursuant to this clause (2) being the “ Quarterly Financial Statements ” and, together with the Annual Financial Statements, the “ Required Financial Statements ”);

 

(3)                                  concurrently with any delivery of Required Financial Statements, a certificate of a Financial Officer of the Company:

 

(a)                                  certifying that no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or, if a Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, specifying the nature and extent thereof and any corrective action taken or proposed to be taken with respect thereto; and

 

(b)                                  in the case of Annual Financial Statements only, certifying (x) a list of all Immaterial Subsidiaries, that each Subsidiary set forth on such list individually qualifies as an Immaterial Subsidiary and that all such Subsidiaries in the aggregate do not exceed the limitation set forth in clause (ii) of the definition of the term “Immaterial Subsidiary” and (y) a list of all Unrestricted Subsidiaries at such time and that each Subsidiary set forth on such list qualifies as an Unrestricted Subsidiary;

 

(4)                                  [reserved];

 

(5)                                  within 120 days following the end of the first fiscal year ended after the Closing Date, and within 90 days following the end of each full fiscal year ended thereafter, a consolidated annual budget for such fiscal year in the form customarily prepared by Holdings (the “ Budget ”), which Budget will in each case be accompanied by the statement of a Financial Officer of Holdings on behalf of Holdings to the effect that the Budget is based on assumptions believed by Holdings to be reasonable as of the date of delivery thereof;

 

(6)                                  upon the reasonable request of the Collateral Agent, concurrently with the delivery of the Annual Financial Statements, an updated Perfection Certificate (or, to the extent such request relates to specified information contained in the Perfection Certificate, such information), or in the case of any non-US Loan Party, updated information relating to the Collateral consistent with such information provided on the Closing Date, in each case, reflecting all changes since the date of the information most recently received pursuant to this paragraph (6) or Section 5.10;

 

(7)                                  promptly, from time to time, such other information regarding the operations, business affairs, pension profile and financial condition of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary, in each case, as the Administrative Agent may reasonably request (for itself or on behalf of any Lender); and

 

120


 

(8)                                  promptly upon the reasonable request of the Administrative Agent (so long as the following are obtainable using commercially reasonable measures), copies of any documents described in Section 101(k)(1) of ERISA that Holdings or any of its ERISA Affiliates may request with respect to any Multiemployer Plan; provided that if Holdings or any of its ERISA Affiliates has not requested such documents from the administrator or sponsor of the applicable Multiemployer Plan, Holdings or the applicable ERISA Affiliate shall be in compliance with this Section 5.04(8) by promptly making a request for such documents or notices from such administrator or sponsor and providing copies of such documents and notices to the Administrative Agent promptly after receipt thereof from the applicable administrator or sponsor of the applicable Multiemployer Plan.

 

Anything to the contrary notwithstanding, the obligations in clauses (1) and (2) of this Section 5.04 may be satisfied with respect to financial information of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries by furnishing (1) the applicable financial statements of any other Parent Entity or (2) Holdings’ (or any such other Parent Entity’s), as applicable, Form 10-K or 10-Q, as applicable, filed with the SEC; provided that with respect to each of the foregoing clauses (1) and (2), (a) to the extent such information relates to another Parent Entity, such information is accompanied by consolidating information that explains in reasonable detail the differences between the information relating to such Parent Entity, on the one hand, and the information relating to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a standalone basis, on the other hand, and (b) to the extent such information is in lieu of information required to be provided under Section 5.04(1), such materials are accompanied by a report and opinion of independent public accountants of recognized national standing, or such other accountants as are reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, and accompanied by an opinion of such accountants (which opinion shall not be subject to any “going concern” statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception (other than a “going concern” statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception resulting solely from an upcoming maturity date under the ABL Facility or the Term Facility occurring within one year from the time such opinion is delivered or anticipated (but not actual) financial covenant non-compliance under the ABL Facility); provided that any such statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception resulting from the actual inability to satisfy a financial covenant in the ABL Facility shall be treated as a Financial Covenant Default for the purposes of Article VIII) (it being understood and agreed that if, in compliance with this paragraph, (x) Holdings provides audited financial statements of another Parent Entity and related report and opinion of accountants with respect thereto in lieu of information required to be provided under Section 5.04(1), no such audited financial information, opinion or report shall be required with respect to Holdings, (y) Holdings provides unaudited financial statements such Parent Entity in lieu of information required to be provided under Section 5.04(2), no such unaudited financial information shall be required with respect to Holdings and (z) Holdings provides a Budget of such Parent Entity in lieu of information required to be provided under Section 5.04(5), no such Budget shall be required with respect to Holdings; provided that for the avoidance of doubt, with respect to the foregoing clauses (x), (y) and (z), (i) to the extent such information relates to a Parent Entity, such information is accompanied by consolidating information that explains in reasonable detail the differences between the information relating to such Parent Entity, on the one hand, and the information relating to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a standalone basis, on the other hand, and (ii) to the extent such information is in lieu of information required to be provided under

 

121



 

Section 5.04(1), such materials are accompanied by a report and opinion of independent public accountants of recognized national standing, or such other accountants as are reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, and accompanied by an opinion of such accountants (which opinion shall not be subject to any “going concern” statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception (other than a “going concern” statement, explanatory note or like qualification or exception resulting solely from an upcoming maturity date under the ABL Facility or the Term Facility occurring within one year from the time such opinion is delivered or anticipated or actual financial covenant non-compliance under the ABL Facility))).  The obligations in clauses (1) and (2) of this Section 5.04 may be satisfied by delivery of financial information of Holdings and its Subsidiaries so long as such financial statements include a reasonably detailed presentation, either on the face of the financial statements or in the footnotes thereto, of the financial condition and results of operations of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries separate from the financial condition and results of operations of the Unrestricted Subsidiaries of Holdings.

 

Documents required to be delivered pursuant to this Section 5.04 may be delivered electronically in accordance with Section 10.01(5).

 

SECTION 5.05.            Litigation and Other Notices .  Furnish to the Administrative Agent (which will promptly thereafter furnish to the Lenders) written notice of the following promptly after any Responsible Officer of Holdings obtains actual knowledge thereof:

 

(1)                                  any Default or Event of Default, specifying the nature and extent thereof and the corrective action (if any) proposed to be taken with respect thereto;

 

(2)                                  the filing or commencement of, or any written threat or notice of intention of any Person to file or commence, any action, suit or proceeding, whether at law or in equity or by or before any Governmental Authority or in arbitration, against Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries as to which an adverse determination is reasonably probable and which, if adversely determined, would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; and

 

(3)                                  the occurrence of any ERISA Event that, together with all other ERISA Events that have occurred, would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

SECTION 5.06.            Compliance with Laws .  Comply with all laws, rules, regulations and orders of any Governmental Authority applicable to it or its property (including ERISA, FCPA, OFAC, the Proceeds of Crime Act and the PATRIOT Act), except where the failure to do so, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; provided that this Section 5.06 will not apply to laws related to Taxes, which are the subject of Section 5.03. The Borrower will maintain in effect and enforce policies and procedures designed to reasonably ensure compliance by the Borrower, its Subsidiaries and their respective directors, officers, employees and agents with Anti-Corruption Laws and applicable Sanctions in all material respects.

 

122



 

Furthermore, this undertaking shall not apply to any German Loan Party in so far as they would violate or expose any German Loan Party or any of its Subsidiaries or any director, officer or employee thereof to any liability under any anti-boycott or blocking law, regulation or statute that is in force from time to time and applicable to such entity (including without limitation EU Regulation (EC) 2271/96 and Section 7 of the German Foreign Trade Ordinance (Verordnung zur Durchführung des Außenwirtschaftsgesetzes ( Außenwirtschaftsverordnung — AWV )).

 

SECTION 5.07.            Maintaining Records; Access to Properties and Inspections .  (i) Keep proper books of record and account in which full, true and correct entries (in all material respects) are made of all dealings and transactions in relation to its business and activities and (ii) permit any Persons designated by the Administrative Agent to visit and inspect the financial records and the properties of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary at reasonable times, upon reasonable prior notice to Holdings, and as often as reasonably requested, to make extracts from and copies of such financial records, and permit any Persons designated by the Administrative Agent, upon reasonable prior notice to Holdings to discuss the affairs, finances and condition of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary with the officers thereof and independent accountants therefor (subject to such accountant’s policies and procedures); provided that the Administrative Agent may not exercise such rights more often than one time during any calendar year unless an Event of Default is continuing; and provided , further , that when an Event of Default is continuing, the Administrative Agent or any Lender (or any of their respective representatives or independent contractors) may do any of the foregoing at the expense of Holdings at any time during normal business hours and upon reasonable advance notice.

 

Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in this Agreement (including Sections 5.04(7), 5.05, 5.07 and 5.12) or any other Loan Document, none of the Loan Parties or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries will be required to disclose, permit the inspection, examination or making copies or abstracts of, or discussion of, any document, information or other matter with any competitor to Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries or that (1) constitutes non-financial trade secrets or non-financial proprietary information, (2) in respect of which disclosure is prohibited by law or any binding agreement or is subject to attorney-client or similar privilege or constitutes attorney work product, provided that in the event that any information is not provided in reliance on this clause (2), Holdings shall provide notice to the Administrative Agent that such information is being withheld and Holdings shall use its commercially reasonable efforts to communicate, to the extent feasible, the applicable information in a way that would not violate the applicable agreement or risk waiver of such privilege or (3) creates an unreasonably excessive expense or burden on Holdings or any of its Subsidiaries.

 

SECTION 5.08.            Use of Proceeds .  Use (in the case of the Initial Term Loans) the proceeds of the Term Loans to make payments in respect of the Transactions.

 

SECTION 5.09.            Compliance with Environmental Laws .  Comply, and make reasonable efforts to cause all lessees and other Persons occupying any Real Property  to comply, with all Environmental Laws applicable to the operations or the Real Property, and obtain and renew and comply with, and make reasonable efforts to cause all lessees and other Persons occupying any Real Property to obtain and renew and comply with, all authorizations, permits, licenses, and other approvals required pursuant to Environmental Law for the operations or the

 

123



 

Real Property, except, in each case, to the extent the failure to do so would not reasonably be expected to have, individually or in the aggregate, a Material Adverse Effect.

 

SECTION 5.10.            Further Assurances; Additional Security .

 

(1)                                  If (a) a Restricted Subsidiary (other than an Excluded Subsidiary) of Holdings is formed or acquired after the Closing Date or (b) an Unrestricted Subsidiary is redesignated as a Restricted Subsidiary that is not an Excluded Subsidiary, within five Business Days after the date such Restricted Subsidiary is formed or acquired or such Unrestricted Subsidiary is redesignated as a Restricted Subsidiary, as applicable, notify the Collateral Agent thereof and, within 60 days after the date such Restricted Subsidiary is formed or acquired (or such longer period as the Administrative Agent may agree in its sole discretion), Holdings will or will cause such Restricted Subsidiary to (and in the case of any Foreign Subsidiary, subject to the Guaranty and Security Principles):

 

(i)                                      subject to any relevant guarantee limitation, deliver a joinder to the Guaranty substantially in the form specified therein, duly executed on behalf of such Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(ii)                                   with respect a Domestic Subsidiary, deliver a joinder to the US Collateral Agreement substantially in the form specified therein, and with respect to any Foreign Subsidiary, appropriate Security Documents (or amendments, supplements or joinders to appropriate Security Documents) substantially similar to other Loan Parties organized in the same jurisdiction, in each case, duly executed on behalf of such Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(iii)                                to the extent required by and subject to the exceptions set forth in the applicable Security Documents (including, with respect to US Loan Parties, US Excluded Equity Interests), pledge the outstanding Equity Interests  owned by such Restricted Subsidiary, and cause each Loan Party owning any Equity Interests issued by such Restricted Subsidiary to pledge such outstanding Equity Interests, and deliver all certificates (if any) or, in respect of a pledge governed by French law and as applicable, certified copies of the relevant registre de mouvements de titres and comptes d’actionnaires representing such Equity Interests, together with stock powers, stock transfer forms or other instruments of transfer with respect thereto endorsed in blank, to the Collateral Agent (or a designated bailee thereof); provided , that notwithstanding the foregoing or in any Loan Document to the contrary, no actions will be required under the laws of any jurisdiction other than the United States or any Specified Foreign Jurisdiction in order to create or perfect any security interest in any Equity Interests.

 

(iv)                               to the extent required by and subject to the exceptions set forth in this Section 5.10 or the Security Documents, deliver to the Collateral Agent (or a designated bailee thereof) Uniform Commercial Code financing statements or equivalent financing statements in any Specified Foreign

 

124



 

Jurisdiction with respect to such Restricted Subsidiary and such other documents reasonably requested by the Collateral Agent to create the Liens intended to be created under the Security Documents and perfect such Liens to the extent required by the Security Documents; and

 

(v)                                  except as otherwise contemplated by this Section 5.10 or any Security Document, obtain all consents and approvals required to be obtained by it in connection with (A) the execution and delivery of all Security Documents (or supplements thereto) to which it is a party and the granting by it of the Liens thereunder and (B) the performance of its obligations thereunder.

 

(2)                                  If any Loan Party (a) acquires fee simple title in Real Property located in the United States after the Closing Date or (b) enters a joinder pursuant to Section 5.10(1)(i) hereof and owns fee simple title in Real Property located in the United States, then, in each case (and with respect to any non-US Loan Party, subject to the Guaranty and Security Principles), within 45 days (or such longer period as the Administrative Agent may agree in its sole discretion) after such acquisition or entry of a joinder (as applicable), such Loan Party shall notify the Collateral Agent thereof of such acquired or owned Real Property located in the United States (as applicable) and (i) no earlier than 45 days (or such longer period as the Administrative Agent may agree in its sole discretion) after such notice is given to the Collateral Agent and (ii) no later than 90 days (or such longer period as the Administrative Agent may agree in its sole discretion) after such acquisition or entry of a joinder (as applicable) shall:

 

(a)                                  cause any such acquired or owned Owned Material Real Property (as applicable) located in the United States to be subjected to a Mortgage securing the Obligations;

 

(b)                                  (A) obtain fully paid American Land Title Association Lender’s Extended Coverage title insurance policies in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to Collateral Agent, with endorsements (including zoning endorsements where available) and in an amount not less than the fair market value of each Mortgaged Property that is owned in fee insuring the fee simple title to each of the fee owned Mortgaged Properties vested in the applicable Loan Party and insuring the Collateral Agent that the relevant Mortgage creates a valid and enforceable first priority Lien on the Mortgaged Property encumbered thereby, each of which title policy (“ Title Policy ”) (1) shall include all endorsements reasonably requested by the Collateral Agent and available in the related jurisdiction and (2) shall provide for affirmative insurance and such reinsurance as the Collateral Agent may reasonably request, all of the foregoing in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Collateral Agent; (B) evidence reasonably satisfactory to the Collateral Agent that the applicable Loan Party has (1) delivered to the title company (the “ Title Company ”) all certificates and affidavits reasonably required by the Title Company in connection with the issuance of the applicable Title Policy and (2) paid to the Title Company or to the appropriate Governmental Authorities all expenses and premiums of the Title Company and all other sums

 

125



 

required in connection with the issuance of the Title Policies including, without limitation, all recording, stamp and intangible taxes payable in connection with recording the Mortgages in the applicable real property records; and (C) a title report issued by the Title Company with respect thereto, together with copies of all recorded documents listed as exceptions to title or otherwise referred to therein, each in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Collateral Agent;

 

(c)                                   obtain (i) American Land Title Association/National Society of Professional Surveyors land title surveys, dated no more than 60 days before the date of their delivery to the Collateral Agent, certified to the Collateral Agent and the issuer of the Title Policies in a manner reasonably satisfactory to the Collateral Agent or (ii) if applicable, previously obtained ALTA/NSPS land title surveys and affidavits of “no-change” with respect to each such survey, such surveys and affidavits to be sufficient to issue Title Policies to the Collateral Agent without any standard survey exceptions and with customary survey related endorsements and other coverages including, without limitation, public road access, survey, contiguity and so-call comprehensive coverage;

 

(d)                                  ensure that the Collateral Agent shall have received from each applicable Loan Party:  (A) a completed Flood Certificate with respect to each Mortgaged Property with any “building”, “structure” or “mobile home” (each as defined in Regulation H as promulgated by the Federal Reserve Board under the Flood Program), which Flood Certificate shall (1) be addressed to the Collateral Agent, (2) be completed by a company which has guaranteed the accuracy of the information contained therein, and (3) otherwise comply with the Flood Program; and (B) evidence describing whether the community in which each Mortgaged Property is located participates in the Flood Program; in the event any such property is located in a Flood Zone, (x) a notice about special flood hazard area status and flood disaster assistance, duly executed by the Borrower, (y) evidence of flood insurance with a financially sounds and reputable insurer, naming the Administrative Agent, as mortgagee, in an amount and otherwise in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, and (z) evidence of the payment of premiums in respect thereof in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent;

 

(e)                                   provide evidence of insurance naming the Collateral Agent as loss payee, additional insured and mortgagee with such responsible and reputable insurance companies or associations, and in such amounts and covering such risks (including the risk of damage caused by a flood, if required pursuant to the Flood Program), as are reasonably satisfactory to the Collateral Agent, including the insurance required by the terms of any mortgage or deed of trust;

 

(f)                                    for each Mortgage delivered pursuant to clause (b), obtain customary mortgage, deed of trust or deed to secure debt (as applicable) enforceability opinions of local counsel for the Loan Parties in the states in which such acquired Owned Material Real Property is located; and

 

126



 

(g)                                   take, or cause the applicable Loan Party to take, such actions as shall be necessary or reasonably requested by the Collateral Agent to perfect such Liens, in each case, at the expense of the Loan Parties, subject to paragraph (5) of this Section 5.10.

 

Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Administrative Agent may waive the requirements of this Section 5.10(2) if the Administrative Agent determines (in its sole discretion) that the burden, cost, time or consequences of obtaining such items is excessive in relation to the benefits to be obtained therefrom by the Secured Parties.

 

(3)                                  Furnish to the Collateral Agent five Business Days prior written notice of any change in any Loan Party’s:

 

(a)                                  Corporate, company or organization name;

 

(b)                                  organizational structure (including jurisdiction of incorporation);

 

(c)                                   location (determined as provided in UCC Section 9-307) (where applicable), registered office address or location of chief executive office; or

 

(d)                                  organizational or company identification number (or equivalent) or, solely if required for perfecting a security interest in the applicable jurisdiction, Federal Taxpayer Identification Number.

 

Holdings and the Borrowers will not effect or permit any such change unless all filings have been made, or will be made within any statutory period, under the Uniform Commercial Code, the PPSA or otherwise that are required in order for the Collateral Agent to continue at all times following such change to have a valid, legal and perfected security interest, for the benefit of the applicable Secured Parties, in all Collateral held by such Loan Party.

 

(4)                                  Execute any and all other documents, financing statements, agreements and instruments, and take all such other actions (including the filing and recording of financing statements and other documents), not described in the preceding clauses (1) through (3) and that may be required under any applicable law, or that the Collateral Agent may reasonably request, to satisfy the requirements set forth in this Section 5.10 and in the Security Documents with respect to the creation and perfection of the Liens on the Collateral in favor of the Collateral Agent, for the benefit of the Secured Parties, contemplated herein and in the Security Documents and to cause such requirement to be and remain satisfied, all at the expense of the Borrowers, and provide to the Collateral Agent, from time to time upon reasonable request, evidence as to the perfection and priority of the Liens created by the Security Documents.

 

(5)                                  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary,

 

(a)                                  the other provisions of this Section 5.10 need not be satisfied with respect to any (i) US Excluded Assets or US Excluded Equity Interests or any exclusions and carve-outs from the perfection requirements set forth in the US Collateral

 

127



 

Agreement and (ii) any assets or other exclusions and carve-outs from grant of security and perfection requirements set forth in the Security Documents to the extent provided for in the Guaranty and Security Principles;

 

(b)                                  neither Holdings nor the other Loan Parties will be required to grant a security interest in any asset or perfect a security interest in any Collateral to the extent the cost, burden, difficulty or consequence of obtaining or perfecting a security interest therein outweighs the benefit of the security afforded thereby as reasonably determined by Holdings and the Administrative Agent;

 

(c)                                   no actions will be required outside of the United States or any Specified Foreign Jurisdiction in order to create or perfect any security interest in any assets located outside of the United States or any Specified Foreign Jurisdiction and no security or pledge agreements, mortgages or deeds governed by the laws of any jurisdiction other than the United States or any Specified Foreign Jurisdiction, or any intellectual property filings or searches in any jurisdiction other than the United States or any Specified Foreign Jurisdiction will be required; and

 

(d)                                  the Administrative Agent shall not enter into any Mortgage in respect of any real property acquired by any Loan Party after the Closing Date until the date that is (a) if such Mortgaged Property relates to a property not located in a Flood Zone, ten (10) Business Days or (b) if such Mortgaged Property relates to a property located in a Flood Zone, thirty (30) days, after the Administrative Agent has delivered to the Lenders the following documents in respect of such real property: (i) a Flood Certificate a third party vendor; (ii) if such real property is located in a “special flood hazard area”, (A) a notification to the applicable Loan Parties of that fact and (if applicable) notification to the applicable Loan Parties that flood insurance coverage is not available and (B) evidence of the receipt by the applicable Loan Parties of such notice; and (iii) if required by Flood Program, evidence of required flood insurance.

 

SECTION 5.11.            Credit Ratings .  Use commercially reasonable efforts to maintain at all times (a) a credit rating by each of S&P and Moody’s in respect of the Term Facility and (b) a public corporate rating by S&P and a public corporate family rating by Moody’s for Holdings, in each case with no requirement to maintain any specific minimum rating.

 

SECTION 5.12.            Lender Calls .  Participate in quarterly conference calls with the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, such calls to be held at such time as may be agreed to by Holdings and the Administrative Agent within a reasonable period of time following such request, with such calls including members of senior management of Holdings as Holdings deems appropriate, to discuss the state of Holdings’ business, including, but not limited to, recent performance, cash and liquidity management, operational activities, current business and market conditions and material performance changes; provided that in no event shall more than one such call be requested in any fiscal quarter (in total with respect to this Agreement and the ABL Credit Agreement); provided , further , that the requirements set forth in this Section 5.12 may be satisfied with a public earnings call for the applicable period.

 

128



 

SECTION 5.13.            Pensions .

 

(1)                                  Ensure that any pension schemes operated by or maintained for the benefit of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries and/or any of their employees are fully funded to the extent required by applicable law where failure to do so would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.

 

(2)                                  Ensure that none of the Canadian Subsidiaries shall maintain, administer, contribute or have any liability in respect of any Canadian Defined Benefit Plan; provided that nothing in this clause (2) shall restrict Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary from acquiring an interest in any Person in a transaction otherwise permitted hereunder notwithstanding that such Person sponsors, maintains, administers or contributes to, or has any liability in respect of, any Canadian Defined Benefit Plan governed by Pension Benefits Act (Ontario).

 

(3)                                  Except with respect to the Specified UK Plans, ensure that, where required by applicable law, all pension schemes operated by or maintained for its benefit and/or any of the employees of any UK Loan Party are fully funded based on the statutory funding objective under sections 221 and 222 of the Pensions Act 2004 or have a recovery plan in place with the intention of reaching fully funded status (and will make such contributions in full as they fall due under such recovery plan), and that no action or omission is taken by any UK Loan Party in relation to such a pension scheme which has or is reasonably likely to have a Material Adverse Effect (including the termination or commencement of winding-up proceedings of any such pension scheme or a UK Loan Party ceasing to employ any member of such a pension scheme).

 

(4)                                  Deliver to the Administrative Agent: (i) at such times as those reports are prepared in order to comply with the then current statutory or auditing requirements (as applicable either to the trustees of any relevant schemes or to the UK Loan Parties) and (ii) at any other time if the Administrative Agent reasonably believes that any relevant statutory or auditing requirements are not being complied with, actuarial reports in relation to all pension schemes mentioned in paragraph (3) above.

 

(5)                                  Promptly notify the Administrative Agent of any material change in the rate of contributions to any pension scheme mentioned in paragraph (3) above paid or recommended to be paid (whether by the scheme actuary or otherwise) or required (by law or otherwise).

 

SECTION 5.14.            Centre of Main Interests and Establishments .   If its jurisdiction of organization or incorporation is a member of the European Union, ensure that its COMI is, at all times, situated in its jurisdiction of organization or incorporation and that it does not have an “establishment” (as that term is used in Article 2(10) of the EU Insolvency Regulation) in any other jurisdiction and it shall not, and it shall ensure that none of its Subsidiaries will, do anything to change the location of its COMI.

 

SECTION 5.15.            People with Significant Control regime . Each Loan Party shall (and shall ensure that each of its Subsidiaries will) (i) within the relevant timeframe,

 

129



 

comply with any notice it receives pursuant to Part 21A of the Companies Act 2006 from any company incorporated in the UK whose shares are the subject of a Lien in favor of the Collateral Agent and (ii) promptly provide the Administrative Agent with a copy of that notice.

 

SECTION 5.16.            Post-Closing Matters .  Deliver to Administrative Agent, in form and substance reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, the items described on Schedule 5.15 hereof on or before the dates specified with respect to such items on Schedule 5.15 (or, in each case, such later date as may be agreed to by Administrative Agent in its sole discretion or, with respect to matters relating primarily to the ABL Priority Collateral, in the sole discretion of the administrative agent under the ABL Credit Agreement).  All representations and warranties contained in this Agreement and the other Loan Documents will be deemed modified to the extent necessary to effect the foregoing (and to permit the taking of the actions described on Schedule 5.15 within the time periods specified thereon, rather than as elsewhere provided in the Loan Documents).

 

ARTICLE VI

 

Negative Covenants

 

Holdings and each Borrower covenants and agrees with each Lender that, so long as this Agreement is in effect and until the Commitments have been terminated and the Obligations (other than Obligations in respect of (i) Specified Hedge Agreements and (ii) contingent indemnification and reimbursement obligations that are not yet due and payable and for which no claim has been asserted) have been paid in full, unless the Required Lenders otherwise consent in writing, it will not and will not permit any of its Restricted Subsidiaries to:

 

SECTION 6.01.            Indebtedness .  Issue, incur, permit to exist or assume any Indebtedness; provided that Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries may issue, incur or assume Indebtedness so long as (i) immediately after giving effect to the issuance, incurrence or assumption of such Indebtedness (but without including the proceeds thereof in Unrestricted Cash for purposes of netting and excluding undrawn commitments under the ABL Facility), the Interest Coverage Ratio, calculated on a Pro Forma Basis, shall not be less than 2.00 to 1.00 (the “ Ratio Debt ”), (ii) the aggregate principal amount of such Indebtedness incurred by Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Guarantors, together with any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred by Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Guarantors to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this paragraph (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness), may not exceed the greater of (a) $70 million and (b) 2.8% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Indebtedness is incurred, (iii) no Event of Default shall exist or would result therefrom, (iv) if such Indebtedness is secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans and is in the form of term loans, the pricing of such Indebtedness shall comply with Section 2.18(8)(b) assuming such Indebtedness were Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, mutatis mutandis , and (v) all of the conditions applicable to Incremental Equivalent Term Debt as described in clauses (2), (3), (4)(b) and (5) of the definition thereof shall be satisfied with respect to such Indebtedness assuming such Indebtedness were Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, mutatis mutandis .

 

The foregoing limitation will not apply to (collectively, “ Permitted Debt ”):

 

130


 

(1)                                  (a) Indebtedness created under the Loan Documents (including Incremental Term Loans, Other Term Loans and Extended Term Loans); (b) Incremental Equivalent Term Debt and (c) Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness;

 

(2)                                  (a) Indebtedness incurred pursuant to the ABL Credit Agreement (including Indebtedness created under ABL Extended Revolving Commitments) and the issuance and creation of letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances thereunder (with letters of credit and bankers’ acceptances being deemed to have a principal amount equal to the face amount thereof) up to an aggregate outstanding principal amount as of any date and (b) any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this clause (2) (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof), not to exceed, in the case of all Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (2), $400 million;

 

(3)                                  customer deposits and advance payments received in the ordinary course of business from customers for goods purchased in the ordinary course of business;

 

(4)                                  Indebtedness existing on the Closing Date (other than Indebtedness described in clause (1) or (2) above) and set forth on Schedule 6.01(4);

 

(5)                                  Capital Lease Obligations, Indebtedness with respect to mortgage financings and purchase money Indebtedness to finance all or any part of the purchase, lease, construction, installation, repair or improvement of property (real or personal), plant or equipment or other fixed or capital assets and Indebtedness arising from the conversion of the obligations of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary under or pursuant to any “synthetic lease” transactions to on-balance sheet Indebtedness of Holdings, the Borrowers or such Restricted Subsidiary, in an aggregate outstanding principal amount, including all Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this clause (5) (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness), not to exceed the greater of (a) $40 million and (b) 1.6% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Indebtedness is incurred; provided that such Indebtedness is incurred within 270 days after the purchase, lease, construction, installation, repair or improvement of the property that is the subject of such Indebtedness;

 

(6)                                  Indebtedness owed to (including obligations in respect of letters of credit or bank Guarantees or similar instruments for the benefit of) any Person providing workers’ compensation, health, disability or other employee benefits (whether to current or former employees) or property, casualty or liability insurance or self-insurance in respect of such items, or other Indebtedness with respect to reimbursement-type obligations regarding workers’ compensation claims, health, disability or other employee benefits (whether current or former) or property, casualty or liability insurance; provided that upon the incurrence of any Indebtedness with respect to reimbursement obligations regarding workers’ compensation claims, such obligations are reimbursed not later than 45 days following such incurrence;

 

131



 

(7)                                  Indebtedness arising from agreements of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary providing for indemnification, earn-outs, adjustment of purchase or acquisition price or similar obligations, in each case, incurred or assumed in connection with the Transactions or any Permitted Acquisition or other acquisition permitted hereunder or the disposition of any business, assets or Restricted Subsidiaries not prohibited by this Agreement, other than Guarantees of Indebtedness incurred by any Person acquiring all or any portion of such business, assets or Restricted Subsidiaries for the purpose of financing any such Permitted Acquisition;

 

(8)                                  intercompany Indebtedness between or among Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(9)                                  Indebtedness pursuant to Hedge Agreements entered into the ordinary course of business and not for speculative purposes;

 

(10)                           Indebtedness in respect of performance bonds, bid bonds, appeal bonds, surety bonds and completion Guarantees and similar obligations, in each case, provided in the ordinary course of business, including those incurred to secure health, safety and environmental obligations in the ordinary course of business;

 

(11)                           Guarantees of Indebtedness of Holdings, the Borrowers or the Restricted Subsidiaries permitted to be incurred under this Agreement to the extent such Guarantees are not prohibited by the provisions of Section 6.04 (other than Section 6.04(20));

 

(12)                           (a) Indebtedness incurred or assumed in connection with a Permitted Acquisition and Indebtedness of any Person that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary if such Indebtedness was not created in anticipation or contemplation of such Permitted Acquisition or such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary and (b) Indebtedness incurred or assumed in anticipation or contemplation of a Permitted Acquisition; provided that, in each case of the foregoing subclauses (a) and (b):

 

(i)                                      no Event of Default is continuing immediately before such Permitted Acquisition or would result therefrom;

 

(ii)                                   immediately after giving effect to such Permitted Acquisition, on a Pro Forma Basis (but in the case of clause (b) without including the proceeds of such Indebtedness in Unrestricted Cash for purposes of netting), either (A) Holdings or the Borrowers would be permitted to incur at least $1 of Ratio Debt or (B) the Interest Coverage Ratio would increase;

 

(iii)                                the aggregate principal amount of any such Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (12) by Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Guarantors, together with any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred by Restricted Subsidiaries that are not Guarantors to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this clause (12) (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness), may not exceed the

 

132



 

greater of (a) $30 million and (b) 1.2% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Indebtedness is incurred;

 

(iv)                               if such Indebtedness is in the form of term loans and is secured on a pari passu basis with the Term Loans, the pricing of such Indebtedness shall comply with Section 2.18(8)(b) assuming such Indebtedness were Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, mutatis mutandis ; and

 

(v)                                  all of the conditions applicable to Incremental Equivalent Term Debt as described in clauses (2), (3), (5)(b) and (6) of the definition thereof shall be satisfied with respect to such Indebtedness assuming such Indebtedness were Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, mutatis mutandis ;

 

(13)                           (a) Indebtedness incurred pursuant to the Senior Notes Indenture up to an aggregate outstanding principal amount as of any date and (b) any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this clause (2) (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof), not to exceed, in the case of all Indebtedness incurred pursuant to this clause (13), $375 million;

 

(14)                           Indebtedness arising from the honoring by a bank or other financial institution of a check, draft or similar instrument drawn against insufficient funds in the ordinary course of business, so long as such Indebtedness (other than credit or purchase cards) is extinguished within 10 Business Days after notification received by Holdings of its incurrence;

 

(15)                           Indebtedness supported by a Letter of Credit, in a principal amount not in excess of the stated amount of such Letter of Credit;

 

(16)                           Indebtedness in an aggregate outstanding principal amount not to exceed an amount equal to 100% of the net proceeds received by Holdings from the issuance or sale of its Equity Interests or as a contribution to its capital after the Closing Date, other than (a) proceeds from the issuance or sale of Holdings’ Disqualified Stock, (b) Excluded Contributions, (c) Cure Amounts and (d) any such proceeds that are used prior to the date of incurrence to (i) make an Investment under Section 6.04(3), a Restricted Payment under Section 6.06(15) or a payment in respect of Junior Financing under Section 6.09(2)(a), in each case utilizing the Available Amount or (ii) make a Restricted Payment under Section 6.06(1) or Section 6.06(2)(b) (any such Indebtedness, “ Contribution Indebtedness ”);

 

(17)                           Indebtedness consisting of (a) the financing of insurance premiums or (b) take or pay obligations contained in supply arrangements, in each case, in the ordinary course of business;

 

(18)                           Indebtedness incurred by a Receivables Subsidiary in a Qualified Receivables Financing that is not recourse to Holdings, the Borrowers or any Restricted Subsidiary other than a Receivables Subsidiary (except for Standard Securitization Undertakings);

 

133



 

(19)                           Cash Management Obligations (as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement), obligations owed by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in respect of or in connection with any treasury, depository, pooling, netting, overdraft, stored value card, purchase card (including so called “procurement card” or “P card”), debit card, credit card, cash management, supply chain finance services (including, without limitation, trade payable services and supplier accounts receivables purchases) and similar services and any automated clearing house transfer of funds, and other Indebtedness in respect thereof entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(20)                           Indebtedness issued to future, current or former officers, directors, managers, and employees, consultants and independent contractors of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary or any direct or indirect parent thereof, their respective estates, heirs, family members, spouses or former spouses, in each case to finance the purchase or redemption of Equity Interests of any Parent Entity permitted by Section 6.06;

 

(21)                           Indebtedness incurred on behalf of, or representing Guarantees of Indebtedness of, joint ventures; provided that the aggregate outstanding principal amount of such Indebtedness, together with any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this clause (21) (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness), may not exceed the greater of (a) $25 million and (b) 1.0% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Indebtedness is incurred;

 

(22)                           Indebtedness of non-Loan Parties in an aggregate outstanding principal amount, together with any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred by non-Loan Parties to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this clause (22) (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness), not to not exceed the greater of (a) $25 million and (b) 1.0% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Indebtedness is incurred;

 

(23)                           (i) unsecured Indebtedness in respect of short-term obligations to pay the deferred purchase price of goods or services or progress payments in connection with such goods and services so long as such obligations are incurred in the ordinary course of business and not in connection with the borrowing of money and (ii) customer deposits and advance payments received in the ordinary course of business from customers for goods purchased in the ordinary course of business.;

 

(24)                           Indebtedness representing deferred compensation or other similar arrangements incurred by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (a) in the ordinary course of business or (b) in connection with the Transactions or any Permitted Investment;

 

(25)                           any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred to Refinance Incremental Equivalent Term Debt, Credit Agreement Refinancing Indebtedness or Indebtedness incurred under clauses (4), (5), (8), (12), (13), (16), (21), (22), this clause (25), or clauses (28) or (29) of this Section 6.01 and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness;

 

(26)                           [reserved];

 

134



 

(27)                           Indebtedness incurred by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with bankers’ acceptances, discounted bills of exchange, warehouse receipts or similar facilities or the discounting or factoring of receivables for credit management purposes, in each case incurred or undertaken in the ordinary course of business;

 

(28)                           additional Indebtedness in an aggregate outstanding principal amount, including all Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred to Refinance any Indebtedness originally incurred pursuant to this clause (28) (and any successive Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness), not to exceed the greater of (a) $100 million and (b) 4.0% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Indebtedness is incurred; and

 

(29)                           letters of credit issued in favor of any Restricted Subsidiary in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed the greater of (a) $[50] million and (b) [2.0]% of Consolidated Total Asset as of the date any such Indebtedness is incurred.

 

For purposes of determining compliance with this Section 6.01, in the event that an item of Indebtedness (or any portion thereof) meets the criteria of more than one of the categories of Permitted Debt or is entitled to be incurred as Ratio Debt, the Borrowers may, in their sole discretion, at the time of incurrence, divide, classify or reclassify, or at any later time divide, classify or reclassify, such item of Indebtedness (or any portion thereof) in any manner that complies with this covenant; provided that all Indebtedness outstanding under the Loan Documents, the ABL Credit Agreement and the Senior Notes Indenture will be deemed to have been incurred in reliance on the exception in clauses (1), (2) and (13), respectively, of the definition of “Permitted Debt” and shall not be permitted to be reclassified pursuant to this paragraph.  All unsecured Permitted Debt originally incurred under clause (5), (21), (22) or (28) of the definition of Permitted Debt will be automatically reclassified as Ratio Debt on the first date on which such Indebtedness would have been permitted to be incurred as Ratio Debt.  Accrual of interest, the accretion of accreted value, amortization of original issue discount, the payment of interest or dividends in the form of additional Indebtedness with the same terms, and increases in the amount of Indebtedness outstanding solely as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate of currencies, will not be deemed to be an incurrence of Indebtedness for purposes of this Section 6.01.  Guarantees of, or obligations in respect of letters of credit relating to Indebtedness that is otherwise included in the determination of a particular amount of Indebtedness will not be included in the determination of such amount of Indebtedness; provided that the incurrence of the Indebtedness represented by such Guarantee or letter of credit, as the case may be, was in compliance with this Section 6.01.

 

For purposes of determining compliance with any Dollar-denominated restriction on the incurrence of Indebtedness, the Dollar equivalent principal amount of Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency shall be calculated based on the relevant currency exchange rate in effect on the date such Indebtedness was incurred, in the case of term debt, or first committed or first incurred (whichever yields the lower Dollar equivalent), in the case of revolving credit debt; provided that if such Indebtedness is incurred to Refinance other Indebtedness denominated in a foreign currency, and such refinancing would cause the applicable Dollar-denominated restriction to be exceeded if calculated at the relevant currency exchange rate in effect on the date of such refinancing, such Dollar-denominated restriction will be deemed not to have been exceeded so long as the principal amount of such refinancing

 

135



 

Indebtedness does not exceed the principal amount of such Indebtedness being refinanced ( plus unpaid accrued interest and premium (including tender premiums) thereon and underwriting discounts, original issue discount, defeasance costs, fees, commissions and expenses in connection therewith).

 

SECTION 6.02.            Liens .  Create, incur, assume or permit to exist any Lien that secures obligations under any Indebtedness on any property or assets at the time owned by it, except the following (collectively, “ Permitted Liens ”):

 

(1)                                  Liens securing Indebtedness incurred in accordance with Sections 6.01(1) or 6.01(2); provided that, in the case of Indebtedness incurred in accordance with Section 6.01(2), the applicable Liens are subject to the Intercreditor Agreement or other intercreditor agreement(s) substantially consistent with and no less favorable to the Lenders in any material respect than the Intercreditor Agreement as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings;

 

(2)                                  Liens securing Indebtedness existing on the Closing Date and set forth on Schedule 6.02(2); provided that such Liens only secure the obligations that they secure on the Closing Date (and any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in respect of such obligations permitted by Section 6.01) and do not apply to any other property or assets of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary other than replacements, additions, accessions and improvements thereto;

 

(3)                                  Liens securing Indebtedness incurred in accordance with Section 6.01(5); provided that such Liens only extend to the assets financed with such Indebtedness (and any replacements, additions, accessions and improvements thereto);

 

(4)                                  Liens on accounts receivable and related assets of the type specified in the definition of Qualified Receivables Financing securing Indebtedness incurred in accordance with Section 6.01(18);

 

(5)                                  Liens on assets of non-Loan Parties securing Indebtedness incurred in accordance with Section 6.01(22);

 

(6)                                  Liens securing Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness incurred in accordance with Section 6.01(25); provided that the Liens securing such Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness are limited to all or part of the same property that secured (or, under the written arrangements under which the original Lien arose, could secure) the original Lien ( plus any replacements, additions, accessions and improvements thereto);

 

(7)                                  (a) Liens on property or Equity Interests of a Person at the time such Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary if such Liens were not created in connection with, or in contemplation of, such other Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary and (b) Liens on property at the time Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary acquired such property, including any acquisition by means of a merger or consolidation with or into Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries, if such Liens were not created in connection with, or in contemplation of, such acquisition;

 

136



 

(8)                                  Liens on property or assets of any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Loan Party;

 

(9)                                  Liens for Taxes, assessments or other governmental charges or levies not yet delinquent or that are being contested in compliance with Section 5.03;

 

(10)                           Liens disclosed by the title insurance policies delivered on or subsequent to the Closing Date and any replacement, extension or renewal of any such Liens (so long as the Indebtedness and other obligations secured by such replacement, extension or renewal Liens are permitted by this Agreement); provided that such replacement, extension or renewal Liens do not cover any property other than the property that was subject to such Liens prior to such replacement, extension or renewal;

 

(11)                           Liens securing judgments that do not constitute an Event of Default under Section 8.01(10) and notices of lis pendens and associated rights related to litigation being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and in respect of which Holdings or any affected Restricted Subsidiary has set aside on its books reserves in accordance with GAAP with respect thereto;

 

(12)                           Liens imposed by law, including landlord’s, carriers’, warehousemen’s, mechanics’, materialmen’s, repairmen’s, construction or other like Liens arising in the ordinary course of business securing obligations that are not overdue by more than 30 days or that are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and in respect of which, if applicable, Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary has set aside on its books reserves in accordance with GAAP;

 

(13)                           (a) pledges and deposits and other Liens made in the ordinary course of business in compliance with the Federal Employers Liability Act or any other workers’ compensation, unemployment insurance and other similar laws or regulations and deposits securing liability to insurance carriers under insurance or self-insurance arrangements in respect of such obligations and (b) pledges and deposits and other Liens securing liability for reimbursement or indemnification obligations of (including obligations in respect of letters of credit or bank guarantees for the benefit of) insurance carriers providing property, casualty or liability insurance to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(14)                           deposits to secure the performance of bids, trade contracts (other than for Indebtedness), leases (other than Capital Lease Obligations), statutory obligations, surety and appeal bonds, performance and return of money bonds, bids, leases, government contracts, trade contracts, agreements with utilities, and other obligations of a like nature (including letters of credit in lieu of any such bonds or to support the issuance thereof) incurred by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business, including those incurred to secure health, safety and environmental obligations in the ordinary course of business;

 

(15)                           survey exceptions and such matters as an accurate survey would disclose, easements, trackage rights, leases (other than Capital Lease Obligations), licenses, special assessments, rights of way, covenants, conditions, restrictions and declarations on or with

 

137



 

respect to the use of Real Property, servicing agreements, development agreements, site plan agreements and title defects or irregularities and other similar encumbrances incurred in the ordinary course of business in each case that are of a minor nature and that, individually and in the aggregate, do not interfere in any material respect with the ordinary conduct of the business of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(16)                           any interest or title of a lessor or sublessor under any leases or subleases entered into by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;

 

(17)                           Liens that are contractual rights of set-off (a) relating to pooled deposit or sweep accounts of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary to permit satisfaction of overdraft or similar obligations incurred in the ordinary course of business of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary or (b) relating to purchase orders and other agreements entered into with customers of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;

 

(18)                           Liens arising solely by virtue of any statutory or common law provision relating to banker’s liens, rights of set-off or similar rights;

 

(19)                           leases or subleases, non-exclusive licenses or sublicenses (including with respect to Intellectual Property Rights and software) granted to others in the ordinary course of business that do not interfere in any material respect with the business of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries, taken as a whole;

 

(20)                           Liens solely on any cash earnest money deposits made by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with any letter of intent or other agreement in respect of any Permitted Investment;

 

(21)                           the prior rights of consignees and their lenders under consignment arrangements entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(22)                           Liens arising from precautionary Uniform Commercial Code or PPSA financing statements or equivalent statements in any other jurisdiction;

 

(23)                           Liens on Equity Interests of any joint venture (a) securing obligations of such joint venture or (b) pursuant to the relevant joint venture agreement or arrangement;

 

(24)                           Liens in favor of customs and revenue authorities arising as a matter of law to secure payment of customs duties in connection with the importation of goods;

 

(25)                           Liens on securities that are the subject of repurchase agreements constituting Cash Equivalents under clause (4) of the definition thereof;

 

(26)                           Liens securing insurance premium financing arrangements;

 

(27)                           Liens on vehicles or equipment of Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries granted in the ordinary course of business;

 

138



 

(28)                           Liens on property or assets used to defease or to satisfy and discharge Indebtedness; provided that such defeasance or satisfaction and discharge is not prohibited by this Agreement;

 

(29)                           Liens:

 

(a)                                  of a collection bank arising under Section 4-210 of the Uniform Commercial Code, or any comparable or successor provision, on items in the course of collection;

 

(b)                                  attaching to pooling, commodity trading accounts or other commodity brokerage accounts incurred in the ordinary course of business; or

 

(c)                                   in favor of banking or other financial institutions or entities, or electronic payment service providers, arising as a matter of law encumbering deposits (including the right of set-off) and which are within the general parameters customary in the banking or finance industry (including, in relation to bank accounts held in Germany, Liens arising under the general terms and conditions of banks ( Allgemeine Geschäftsbedingungen der Banken und Sparkassen ));

 

(30)                           Liens on specific items of inventory or other goods and proceeds of any Person securing such Person’s obligations in respect of bankers’ acceptances or letters of credit entered into in the ordinary course of business issued or created for the account of such Person to facilitate the purchase, shipment or storage of such inventory or other goods;

 

(31)                           Liens that rank pari passu with the Liens securing the Obligations if the First Lien Net Leverage Ratio as of the date on which such Liens are first created is less than or equal to 1.50 to 1.00; provided that (x) a Debt Representative acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness will become party to or otherwise subject to the provisions of the Intercreditor Agreement and a First Lien Intercreditor Agreement and (y) with respect to any such Indebtedness in the form of term loans, the pricing of such Indebtedness complies with Section 2.18(8)(b);

 

(32)                           Liens that rank junior to the Liens securing both the Obligations and the ABL Obligations, if the Total Net Leverage Ratio as of the date on which such Liens are first created is less than or equal to 3.20 to 1.00; provided that a Debt Representative acting on behalf of the holders of such Indebtedness will become party to or otherwise subject to the provisions of the Intercreditor Agreement and a Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement;

 

(33)                           Liens securing additional obligations in an aggregate outstanding principal amount not to exceed the greater of (a) $75 million and (b) 3.0% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date such Liens are first created.

 

(34)                           Liens securing (a) Specified Hedge Obligations, which amounts are secured under the Loan Documents, and (b) amounts owing to any Qualified Counterparty (as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement) under any Specified Hedge Agreement (as defined in the ABL Credit Agreement) and Cash Management Obligations (as defined in the ABL

 

139



 

Credit Agreement), which amounts are secured under the ABL Loan Documents; provided that, in each case, the applicable Liens are subject to the Intercreditor Agreement or other intercreditor agreement(s) substantially consistent with and no less favorable to the Lenders in any material respect than the Intercreditor Agreement as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings;

 

(35)                           Liens on amounts deposited to secure any Loan Party’s and its Restricted Subsidiaries’ obligations in connection with pension liabilities ( Altersteilzeitverpflichtungen ) pursuant to § 8a German Partial Retirement Act ( Altersteilzeitgesetz ) or in connection with time credits ( Wertguthaben ) pursuant to § 7e German Social Code IV ( Sozialgesetzbuch IV );

 

(36)                           any Lien required to be granted under mandatory law in favor of creditors as a consequence of a merger or a conversion permitted under this Agreement due to §§ 22, 204 UmwG; and

 

(37)                           Liens arising out of conditional sale, title retention (including retention of title), consignment or similar arrangements for the sale of goods.

 

For purposes of this Section 6.02, Indebtedness will not be considered incurred under a subsection or clause of Section 6.01 if it is later reclassified as outstanding under another subsection or clause of Section 6.01 (in which event, and at which time, same will be deemed incurred under the subsection or clause to which reclassified).

 

SECTION 6.03.            [Reserved] .

 

SECTION 6.04.            Investments, Loans and Advances .  Purchase, hold or acquire (including pursuant to any merger, consolidation or amalgamation with a Person that is not a Wholly Owned Subsidiary immediately prior to such merger, consolidation or amalgamation) any Equity Interests, evidences of Indebtedness or other securities of, make or permit to exist any loans or advances to or Guarantees of the obligations of, or make or permit to exist any investment or any other interest in (each, a “ Investment ”), any other Person, except the following (collectively, “ Permitted Investments ”):

 

(1)                                  the Transactions;

 

(2)                                  loans and advances to officers, directors, employees or consultants of any Parent Entity, the Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary in an aggregate principal amount not to exceed the greater of (i) $5 million and (ii) 0.2% of Consolidated Total Assets  at any time outstanding (calculated without regard to write-downs or write-offs thereof after the date made);

 

(3)                                  Investments in an amount not to exceed the Available Amount as of the date such Investments are made; provided that (a) no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing immediately prior to making such Investment or would result therefrom;

 

(4)                                  Permitted Acquisitions and pre-existing Investments held by Persons acquired in Permitted Acquisitions or acquired in connection with Permitted Acquisitions;

 

140


 

(5)                                  intercompany Investments among Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries (including intercompany Indebtedness);

 

(6)                                  Investments in (x) Viance, LLC and Louisiana Pigment Company (and any successor thereof) in an amount, net of any Investments by Viance, LLC and Louisiana Pigment Company in any Loan Party, not to exceed the greater of (i) $25 million and (ii) 1.0% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Investment is made and (y) other Joint Ventures in an amount not to exceed the greater of (i) $50 million and (ii) 2.0% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Investment is made;

 

(7)                                  Cash Equivalents and, to the extent not made for speculative purposes, Investment Grade Securities or Investments that were Cash Equivalents or Investment Grade Securities when made;

 

(8)                                  Investments arising out of the receipt by Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries of non-cash consideration in connection with any sale of assets permitted under Section 6.05;

 

(9)                                  accounts receivable, security deposits and prepayments and other credits granted or made in the ordinary course of business and any Investments received in satisfaction or partial satisfaction thereof from financially troubled account debtors and others, including in connection with the bankruptcy or reorganization of, or settlement of delinquent accounts and disputes with or judgments against, such account debtors and others, in each case in the ordinary course of business;

 

(10)                           Investments acquired as a result of a foreclosure by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary with respect to any secured Investments or other transfer of title with respect to any secured Investment in default;

 

(11)                           Hedge Agreements entered into the ordinary course of business and not for speculative purposes;

 

(12)                           Investments existing on, or contractually committed as of, the Closing Date and set forth on Schedule 6.04 and any replacements, refinancings, refunds, extensions, renewals or reinvestments thereof, so long as the aggregate amount of all Investments pursuant to this clause (12) is not increased at any time above the amount of such Investments existing or committed on the Closing Date (other than pursuant to an increase as required by the terms of any such Investment as in existence on the Closing Date);

 

(13)                           Investments resulting from pledges and deposits that are Permitted Liens;

 

(14)                           intercompany loans among non-Loan Party Subsidiaries and Guarantees by non-Loan Party Subsidiaries permitted by Section 6.01(22);

 

(15)                           acquisitions of obligations of one or more officers or other employees of any Parent Entity, the Borrowers or any Subsidiary in connection with such officer’s or employee’s acquisition of Equity Interests of any Parent Entity, so long as no cash is actually

 

141



 

advanced by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary to such officers or employees in connection with the acquisition of any such obligations;

 

(16)                           Guarantees of operating leases (for the avoidance of doubt, excluding Capital Lease Obligations) or of other obligations that do not constitute Indebtedness, in each case, entered into by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in the ordinary course of business;

 

(17)                           Investments to the extent that payment for such Investments is made with Equity Interests of any Parent Entity;

 

(18)                           Investments consisting of the redemption, purchase, repurchase or retirement of any Equity Interests permitted under Section 6.06;

 

(19)                           Investments in the ordinary course of business consisting of Uniform Commercial Code Article 3 endorsements for collection or deposit and Uniform Commercial Code Article 4 customary trade arrangements with customers;

 

(20)                           Guarantees permitted under Section 6.01;

 

(21)                           advances in the form of a prepayment of expenses, so long as such expenses are being paid in accordance with customary trade terms of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(22)                           Investments, including loans and advances, to any Parent Entity so long as Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary would otherwise be permitted to make a Restricted Payment in such amount; provided that the amount of any such Investment will be deemed to be a Restricted Payment under the appropriate clause of Section 6.06 for all purposes of this Agreement;

 

(23)                           [reserved];

 

(24)                           purchases or acquisitions of inventory, supplies, materials and equipment or purchases or acquisitions of contract rights or Intellectual Property Rights in each case in the ordinary course of business;

 

(25)                           Investments in assets useful in the business of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary made with (or in an amount equal to) any Reinvestment Deferred Amount or Below Threshold Asset Sale Proceeds;

 

(26)                           any Investment in a Receivables Subsidiary or any Investment by a Receivables Subsidiary in any other Person, in each case in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing, including Investments of funds held in accounts permitted or required by the arrangements governing such Qualified Receivables Financing or any related Indebtedness;

 

(27)                           intercompany current liabilities owed to Unrestricted Subsidiaries or joint ventures incurred in the ordinary course of business in connection with the cash management operations of Holdings and its Subsidiaries;

 

142



 

(28)                           Investments that are made with Excluded Contributions;

 

(29)                           any Investment made at any time in an amount not exceeding the Shared Dollar Basket at such time, plus any returns of capital that at such time have actually been received by Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries in respect of their Investments made pursuant to this Section 6.04(29);

 

(30)                           Investments for the establishment and maintenance (including the establishment and maintenance of required reserves in an amount not to exceed the reserves reasonably determined by an independent actuary and in any event not less than any amount that may be required from time to time in accordance with applicable statutes or other applicable Requirements of Law) of a captive insurance program that is reasonable and customary for companies engaged in the same or similar businesses;

 

(31)                           Investments in Indebtedness of Holdings or any of its Restricted Subsidiaries; provided that an Investment in such Indebtedness will be treated as a repayment thereof and will be permitted only to the extent a repayment of such Indebtedness would be permitted at the time of Investment;

 

(32)                           any Investment, if (a) no Event of Default is continuing immediately prior to making such Investment or would result therefrom and (b) the Total Net Leverage Ratio, on a Pro Forma Basis, is less than or equal to 2.70 to 1.00; and

 

(33)                           Investments for the establishment of Wholly Owned Subsidiaries that are initially capitalized in a de minimis amount.

 

SECTION 6.05.            Mergers, Consolidations, Amalgamations, Sales of Assets and Acquisitions .  Merge into, or consolidate or amalgamate with, any other Person, or permit any other Person to merge into or consolidate with it, or sell, transfer, license, lease or otherwise dispose of (in one transaction or in a series of transactions) all or any part of its assets, or issue, sell, transfer or otherwise dispose of any Equity Interests of any Restricted Subsidiary, or purchase, lease or otherwise acquire (in one transaction or a series of transactions) all or any substantial part of the assets of any other Person or any division, unit or business of any other Person, except that this Section 6.05 will not prohibit:

 

(1)                                  if at the time thereof and immediately after giving effect thereto no Event of Default has occurred and is continuing or would result therefrom:

 

(a)                                  the merger, consolidation or amalgamation of any Restricted Subsidiary into (or with) any Borrower; provided that (i) such Borrower shall be the survivor or (ii) if the Person formed by or surviving any such merger or consolidation is not the Borrower (any such Person, the “ Successor Borrower ”), (A) the Successor Borrower shall be an entity organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof, the District of Columbia, Canada, Germany, Luxembourg or England & Wales and (B) the Successor Borrower shall expressly assume all the obligations of the applicable Borrower under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents to which such Borrower is a party pursuant to a

 

143



 

supplement hereto or thereto in form reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent; provided , further , that in the case of the US Borrower, any Successor Borrower shall be an entity organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof or the District of Columbia;

 

(b)                                  the merger, consolidation or amalgamation of any Restricted Subsidiary into or with any Subsidiary Loan Party in a transaction in which the surviving or resulting entity is a Subsidiary Loan Party;

 

and, in the case of each of the foregoing clauses (a) and (b), no Person other than a Borrower or a Subsidiary Loan Party receives any consideration;

 

(c)                                   the merger, consolidation or amalgamation of any Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Loan Party into or with any other Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Loan Party;

 

(d)                                  any transfer of inventory among Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries or between Restricted Subsidiaries and any other transfer of property or assets among Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries or between Restricted Subsidiaries, in each case, in the ordinary course of business;

 

(e)                                   the liquidation or dissolution or change in form of entity of any Restricted Subsidiary Holdings if a Responsible Officer of Holdings determines in good faith that such liquidation, dissolution or change in form is in the best interests of Holdings and is not materially disadvantageous to the Lenders; or

 

(f)                                    the merger, consolidation or amalgamation of any Restricted Subsidiary with or into any other Person in order to effect a Permitted Investment ;

 

(g)                                   the merger, consolidation or amalgamation of any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary into (or with) Holdings; provided that (1) Holdings shall be the continuing or surviving Person or (2) if the Person formed by or surviving any such merger, amalgamation or consolidation is not Holdings or is a Person into which Holdings has been liquidated (any such Person, the “ Successor Holdings ”) (A) the Successor Holdings shall be an entity organized or existing under the laws of the United States, any state thereof, the District of Columbia, Canada, Germany, Luxembourg or England & Wales and (B) the Successor Holdings shall expressly assume all the obligations of Holdings under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents to which Holdings is a party pursuant to a supplement hereto or thereto in form reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent and (C) the Successor Holdings shall pledge 100% of the Equity Interests of the Borrowers to the Collateral Agent as Collateral to secure the Obligations in form reasonably satisfactory to the Collateral Agent;

 

(2)                                  any sale, transfer or other disposition if:

 

(a)                                  the Net Cash Proceeds therefrom are to be applied in accordance with Section 2.08(1);

 

144



 

(b)                                  at least 75% of the consideration therefor is in the form of cash and Cash Equivalents; and

 

(c)                                   such sale, transfer or disposition is made for fair market value (as determined by a Responsible Officer of Holdings in good faith);

 

provided that each of the following items will be deemed to be cash for purposes of this Section 6.05(2):

 

(i)                                      any liabilities of Holdings or the Restricted Subsidiaries (as shown on the most recent Required Financial Statements or in the notes thereto), other than liabilities that are by their terms subordinated in right of payment to the Obligations, that are assumed by the transferee with respect to the applicable disposition and for which Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries have been validly released by all applicable creditors in writing;

 

(ii)                                   any securities received by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary from such transferee that are converted by Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary into cash (to the extent of the cash received) within 180 days following the closing of the applicable disposition; and

 

(iii)                                any Designated Non-Cash Consideration received in respect of such disposition; provided that the aggregate fair market value of all such Designated Non-Cash Consideration, as determined by a Responsible Officer of Holdings in good faith, taken together with all other Designated Non-Cash Consideration received pursuant to this clause (iii) that is then outstanding, does not exceed the greater of (A) $50 million and (B) 2.0% of Consolidated Total Assets as of the date any such Designated Non-Cash Consideration is received, with the fair market value of each item of Designated Non-Cash Consideration being measured at the time received and without giving effect to subsequent changes in value;

 

(3)                                  (a) the purchase and sale of inventory in the ordinary course of business, (b) the acquisition or lease (pursuant to an operating lease) of any other asset in the ordinary course of business, (c) the sale of surplus, obsolete, damaged or worn out equipment or other property in the ordinary course of business or (d) the disposition of Cash Equivalents (or Investments that were Cash Equivalents when made);

 

(4)                                  [reserved];

 

(5)                                  Investments permitted by Section 6.04 (including any Permitted Acquisition or merger, consolidation or amalgamation in order to effect a Permitted Acquisition), provided , that, following any such merger, consolidation or amalgamation involving Holdings or any Borrower, Holdings, a Successor Holdings, a Borrower or a Successor Borrower is the surviving Person;

 

145



 

(6)                                  Permitted Liens;

 

(7)                                  Restricted Payments permitted by Section 6.06;

 

(8)                                  the sale of (i) defaulted receivables in the ordinary course of business and not as part of an accounts receivables financing transaction and (ii) accounts receivable and related assets in connection with a Qualified Receivables Financing;

 

(9)                                  leases, non-exclusive licenses, or subleases or sublicenses of any real or personal property (including Intellectual Property Rights) in the ordinary course of business;

 

(10)                           sales, leases or other dispositions of inventory of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary determined by the management of Holdings to be no longer useful or necessary in the operation of the business of Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(11)                           acquisitions and purchases made with Below Threshold Asset Sale Proceeds;

 

(12)                           to the extent allowable under Section 1031 of the Code (or comparable or successor provision), any exchange of like property (excluding any boot thereon permitted by such provision) for use in any business conducted by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary that is not in contravention of Section 6.08; provided that to the extent the property being transferred constitutes Term Priority Collateral, such replacement property will constitute Term Priority Collateral;

 

(13)                           any sale, transfer or other disposition, in a single transaction or a series of related transactions, of any asset or assets having a fair market value, as determined by a Responsible Officer of Holdings in good faith, of not more than $5 million;

 

(14)                           the lapse, abandonment or discontinuance of the use or maintenance of any Intellectual Property Rights if previously determined by the Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary in its reasonable business judgment that such lapse, abandonment or discontinuance is desirable in the conduct of its business; and

 

(15)                           the Transactions.

 

To the extent any Collateral is disposed of in a transaction expressly permitted by this Section 6.05 to any Person other than the Borrower or any Guarantor, such Collateral will be free and clear of the Liens created by the Loan Documents, and the Administrative Agent will take, and each Lender hereby authorizes the Administrative Agent to take, any actions reasonably requested by Holdings in order to evidence the foregoing, in each case, in accordance with Section 10.18. Notwithstanding the foregoing or anything herein to the contrary, in no event will any Borrower change its jurisdiction of organization to any jurisdiction other than the United States, any state thereof, the District of Columbia, Canada, Germany, Luxembourg or England & Wales.

 

SECTION 6.06.            Restricted Payments .  Declare or pay any dividend or make any other distribution (by reduction of capital or otherwise), directly or indirectly, whether in cash, property, securities or a combination thereof, with respect to any of its Equity Interests

 

146



 

(other than dividends and distributions on Equity Interests payable solely by the issuance of additional Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of the Person paying such dividends or distributions) or directly or indirectly redeem, purchase, retire or otherwise acquire for value any of its Equity Interests or set aside any amount for any such purpose (other than through the issuance of additional Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of the Person redeeming, purchasing, retiring or acquiring such shares) (the foregoing, “ Restricted Payments ”) other than:

 

(1)                                  the making of any Restricted Payment in exchange for, or out of or with the net cash proceeds of the substantially concurrent sale (other than to a Restricted Subsidiary) of, Equity Interests of Holdings (other than Disqualified Stock) or from the substantially concurrent contribution of common equity capital to Holdings, other than (a) Excluded Contributions, (b) Cure Amounts and (c) any such proceeds that are used prior to the date of determination to (i) make an Investment under Section 6.04(3), a Restricted Payment under Section 6.06(15) or a payment in respect of Junior Financing under Section 6.09(2)(a), in each case utilizing the Available Amount, (ii) make a Restricted Payment under Section 6.06(2)(b) or (iii) incur Contribution Indebtedness;

 

(2)                                  Restricted Payments to any Parent Entity the proceeds of which are used to purchase, retire, redeem or otherwise acquire, or to any Parent Entity for the purpose of paying to any other Parent Entity to purchase, retire, redeem or otherwise acquire, the Equity Interests of such Parent Entity (including related stock appreciation rights or similar securities) held directly or indirectly by then present or former directors, consultants, officers, employees, managers or independent contractors of Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries or any Parent Entity or their estates, heirs, family members, spouses or former spouses (including for all purposes of this clause (2), Equity Interests held by any entity whose Equity Interests are held by any such future, present or former employee, officer, director, manager, consultant or independent contractor or their estates, heirs, family members, spouses or former spouses) pursuant to any management equity plan or stock option plan or any other management or employee benefit plan or other agreement or arrangement or any stock subscription or shareholder or similar agreement; provided that the aggregate amount of such purchases or redemptions may not exceed:

 

(a)                                  the amount of net cash proceeds contributed to Holdings that were received by any Parent Entity since the Closing Date from sales of Equity Interests of any Parent Entity to directors, consultants, officers, employees, managers or independent contractors of any Parent Entity, Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with permitted employee compensation and incentive arrangements, other than (a) Excluded Contributions, (b) Cure Amounts and (c) any such proceeds that are used prior to the date of determination to (1) make an Investment under Section 6.04(3), a Restricted Payment under Section 6.06(15) or a payment in respect of Junior Financing under Section 6.09(2)(a), in each case utilizing the Available Amount, (2) make a Restricted Payment under Section 6.06(1) or (3) incur Contribution Indebtedness; plus

 

147



 

(b)                                  the amount of net proceeds of any key man life insurance policies received during such fiscal year; plus

 

(c)                                   the amount of any bona fide cash bonuses otherwise payable to directors, consultants, officers, employees, managers or independent contractors of any Parent Entity, Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary that are foregone in return for the receipt of Equity Interests, the fair market value of which is equal to or less than the amount of such cash bonuses, which, if not used in any year, may be carried forward to any subsequent fiscal year;

 

and provided , further , that cancellation of Indebtedness owing to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary from directors, consultants, officers, employees, managers or independent contractors of any Parent Entity, Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in connection with a repurchase of Equity Interests of any Parent Entity will not be deemed to constitute a Restricted Payment;

 

(3)                                  Restricted Payments to consummate the Transactions;

 

(4)                                  Restricted Payments in any fiscal year in an amount equal to 6.0% of the market capitalization of Holdings (or its Parent Entity, as applicable);

 

(5)                                  Restricted Payments in the form of cash distributions with respect to any taxable period in which any Subsidiary or Holdings is treated as a disregarded entity, partnership or S corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes or is a member of a consolidated, combined, unitary or similar tax group with any equityholders,  to enable any equityholders to pay any Taxes attributable solely to the income, operations and ownership of Holdings and/or its Subsidiaries, as applicable;

 

(6)                                  Restricted Payments to permit any Parent Entity to:

 

(a)                                  pay operating, overhead, legal, accounting and other professional fees and expenses (including directors’ fees and expenses and administrative, legal, accounting, filings and similar expenses), in each case to the extent related to its separate existence as a holding company or to its ownership of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(b)                                  pay fees and expenses related to any public offering or private placement of debt or equity securities of, or incurrence of any Indebtedness by, any Parent Entity or any Permitted Investment, whether or not consummated, including the Initial Venator Distribution Transaction;

 

(c)                                   pay franchise taxes and other similar taxes and expenses, in each case, in connection with the maintenance of its legal existence;

 

(d)                                  make payments under transactions permitted under Section 6.07 (other than Section 6.07(8)), in each case to the extent such payments are due at the time of such Restricted Payment; or

 

148



 

(e)                                   pay customary salary, bonus and other compensation or benefits payable to, and indemnities provided on behalf of, officers, employees, directors, managers, consultants or independent contractors of any Parent Entity to the extent related to its ownership of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(7)                                  non-cash repurchases of Equity Interests deemed to occur upon exercise of stock options or warrants if such Equity Interests represent a portion of the exercise price of such options or warrants;

 

(8)                                  Restricted Payments to allow any Parent Entity to make, or to any Parent Entity for the purpose of paying to any other Parent Entity to make, payments in cash, in lieu of the issuance of fractional shares, upon the exercise of warrants or upon the conversion or exchange of Equity Interests of any such Person, in connection with any merger, consolidation, amalgamation or other business combination, or in connection with any dividend, distribution or split of Equity Interests;

 

(9)                                  [reserved];

 

(10)                           Restricted Payments to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary (or, in the case of non-Wholly Owned Subsidiaries, to Holdings and to each other owner of Equity Interests of such Restricted Subsidiary) on a pro rata basis (or more favorable basis from the perspective of Holdings or such Restricted Subsidiary) based on their relative ownership interests so long as any repurchase of its Equity Interests from a Person that is not Holdings or a Restricted Subsidiary is permitted under Section 6.04);

 

(11)                           Restricted Payments to any Parent Entity to finance, or to any Parent Entity for the purpose of paying to any other Parent Entity to finance, any Permitted Investment; provided that (a) such Restricted Payment is made substantially concurrently with the closing of such Investment and (b) promptly following the closing thereof, such Parent Entity causes (i) all property acquired (whether assets or Equity Interests) to be contributed to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary or (ii) the merger, consolidation or amalgamation (to the extent permitted by Section 6.05) of the Person formed or acquired into Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of Holdings in order to consummate such Permitted Investment, in each case, in accordance with the requirements of Section 5.10;

 

(12)                           the payment of any dividend or distribution or consummation of any redemption within 60 days after the date of declaration thereof or the giving of a redemption notice related thereto, if at the date of declaration or notice such payment would have complied with the provisions of this Agreement;

 

(13)                           the distribution, as a dividend or otherwise, of shares of Capital Stock of, or Indebtedness owed to Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary by, one or more Unrestricted Subsidiaries (other than Unrestricted Subsidiaries the primary assets of which are cash or Cash Equivalents);

 

(14)                           any Restricted Payment in an amount not to exceed the Available Amount on the date such Restricted Payment is made if (a) no Event of Default is continuing immediately

 

149



 

prior to making such Restricted Payment or would result therefrom and (b) the Total Net Leverage Ratio, on a Pro Forma Basis, is less than or equal to 3.20 to 1.00;

 

(15)                           any Restricted Payment, if (a) no Event of Default is continuing immediately prior to making such Restricted Payment or would result therefrom and (b) the Total Net Leverage Ratio, on a Pro Forma Basis, is less than or equal to 2.20 to 1.00;

 

(16)                           any Restricted Payment made at any time in an amount not exceeding the Shared Dollar Basket at such time; provided that no Event of Default shall exist or would result therefrom;

 

(17)                           the Special Closing Date Payments; and

 

(18)                           Restricted Payments in connection with the issuance of Equity Interests to management or employees pursuant to and in accordance with compensation agreements with such management or employees of Holdings and its Subsidiaries in such reasonably estimated amounts as are necessary to satisfy the tax obligations of such management or employees (including estimated tax payments) as a result of the issuance of such Equity Interests.

 

SECTION 6.07.            Transactions with Affiliates .  Sell or transfer any property or assets to, or purchase or acquire any property or assets from, or otherwise engage in any other transaction with, any of its Affiliates in a transaction involving aggregate consideration in excess of $5 million, unless such transaction is (i) otherwise permitted (or required) under this Agreement or (ii) upon terms no less favorable to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries, as applicable, than would be obtained in a comparable arm’s length transaction with a Person that is not an Affiliate, except that this Section 6.07 will not prohibit:

 

(1)                                  transactions between or among (a) Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries or (b) Holdings and any Person that becomes a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of such transaction (including by way of a merger, consolidation or amalgamation in which a Loan Party is the surviving entity);

 

(2)                                  [reserved];

 

(3)                                  any issuance of securities, or other payments, awards or grants in cash, securities or otherwise pursuant to, or the funding of, employment arrangements, equity purchase agreements, stock options and stock ownership plans approved by the Board of Directors of Holdings or any Parent Entity in good faith;

 

(4)                                  loans or advances to employees or consultants of any Parent Entity, Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary in accordance with Section 6.04(2);

 

(5)                                  the payment of fees, reasonable out-of-pocket costs and indemnities to directors, officers, consultants and employees of any Parent Entity, Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business (limited, in the case of any Parent Entity (other than Holdings), to the portion of such fees and expenses that are allocable to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries (which shall be 100% for so long as such Parent

 

150


 

Entity owns no assets other than the Equity Interests in Holdings and assets incidental to the ownership of Holdings and its Restricted Subsidiaries));

 

(6)                                  the Initial Venator Distribution Transaction, the Transactions and transactions pursuant to the Transaction Documents and other transactions, agreements and arrangements in existence on the Closing Date and set forth on Schedule 6.07 or any amendment thereto to the extent such amendment is not adverse to the Lenders in any material respect as determined in good faith by a Responsible Officer of Holdings;

 

(7)                                  (a) any employment agreements entered into by Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries in the ordinary course of business, (b) any subscription agreement or similar agreement pertaining to the repurchase of Equity Interests pursuant to put/call rights or similar rights with employees, officers or directors and (c) any employee compensation, benefit plan or arrangement, any health, disability or similar insurance plan which covers employees, and any reasonable employment contract and transactions pursuant thereto;

 

(8)                                  Restricted Payments permitted under Section 6.06, including payments to any Parent Entity;

 

(9)                                  any purchase by any Parent Entity (other than Holdings) of the Equity Interests of Holdings and the purchase by Holdings of Equity Interests in any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(10)                           transactions between Huntsman and its Subsidiaries on one hand and Holdings and its Subsidiaries on the other hand, for the purpose of facilitating the Venator Consolidation Transactions and the Initial Venator IPO Transaction, whether consummated prior to, or after the consummation of the Initial Venator IPO Transaction, including any customary transition services agreements, separation agreements or similar agreements entered into between Huntsman and its Subsidiaries on one hand and Holdings and its Subsidiaries on the other hand;

 

(11)                           transactions with Restricted Subsidiaries for the purchase or sale of goods, products, parts and services entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(12)                           any transaction in respect of which Holdings delivers to the Administrative Agent (for delivery to the Lenders) a letter addressed to the Board of Directors of Holdings from an accounting, appraisal or investment banking firm, in each case, of nationally recognized standing that is (a) in the good faith determination of Holdings qualified to render such letter and (b) reasonably satisfactory to the Administrative Agent, which letter states that such transaction is on terms that are no less favorable to Holdings or the Restricted Subsidiaries, as applicable, than would be obtained in a comparable arm’s length transaction with a Person that is not an Affiliate;

 

(13)                           transactions with joint ventures for the purchase or sale of goods, equipment and services entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

151



 

(14)                           the issuance, sale or transfer of Equity Interests of Holdings to any Parent Entity (other than Holdings) and capital contributions by any Parent Entity (other than Holdings) to Holdings;

 

(15)                           the issuance of Equity Interests to the management of Holdings, the Borrowers or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries in connection with the Transactions;

 

(16)                           payments by Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries pursuant to tax sharing agreements among Holdings and any of the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(17)                           payments or loans (or cancellation of loans) to employees or consultants that are:

 

(a)                                  approved by a majority of the Disinterested Directors of Holdings or the Borrowers in good faith;

 

(b)                                  made in compliance with applicable law; and

 

(c)                                   otherwise permitted under this Agreement;

 

(18)                           transactions with customers, clients, suppliers, or purchasers or sellers of goods or services, in each case, in the ordinary course of business and otherwise in compliance with the terms of this Agreement, that are fair to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries;

 

(19)                           transactions between or among Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries and any Person, a director of which is also a director of Holdings or any other Parent Entity, so long as (a) such director abstains from voting as a director of Holdings or such Parent Entity, as the case may be, on any matter involving such other Person and (b) such Person is not an Affiliate of Holdings for any reason other than such director’s acting in such capacity;

 

(20)                           transactions pursuant to, and complying with, the provisions of Section 6.01, Section 6.04 or Section 6.05(1);

 

(21)                           the existence of, or the performance by any Loan Party of its obligations under the terms of, any customary registration rights agreement to which a Loan Party or any Parent Entity is a party or becomes a party in the future;

 

(22)                           intercompany transactions undertaken in good faith (as certified by a Responsible Officer of Holdings) for the purpose of improving the consolidated tax efficiency of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries and not for the purpose of circumventing any covenant set forth herein;

 

(23)                           [reserved];

 

(24)                           central services (including, without limitation, management information systems, pension and profit sharing plans, and human resources) provided by the Loan Parties to affiliates at the Loan Parties’ cost; and

 

152



 

(25)                           Qualified Receivables Financings.

 

SECTION 6.08.            Business of Holdings and its Subsidiaries .  Notwithstanding any other provisions hereof, engage at any time in any business or business activity other than any business or business activity conducted by Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on the Closing Date (after giving effect to the Transactions) and any similar, corollary, related, ancillary, incidental or complementary business or business activities or a reasonable extension, development or expansion thereof or ancillary thereto.

 

SECTION 6.09.            Limitation on Payments and Modifications of Indebtedness; Modifications of Certificate of Incorporation, By Laws and Certain Other Agreements; etc .

 

(1)                                  amend or modify in any manner materially adverse to the Lenders the articles or certificate of incorporation (or similar document), by-laws, limited liability company operating agreement, partnership agreement or other organizational documents of Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(2)                                  make any cash payment or other distribution in cash in respect of, or amend or modify, or permit the amendment or modification of, any provision of, any Junior Financing, or any payment or other distribution (whether in cash, securities or other property), including any sinking fund or similar deposits, on account of the purchase, redemption, retirement, acquisition, cancellation or termination in respect of any Junior Financing; except in the case of this clause (2):

 

(a)                                  payments in respect of Junior Financings in an amount not to exceed the Available Amount on the date the payments are made if (i) no Event of Default is continuing immediately prior to making such Restricted Payment or would result therefrom and (ii) the Total Net Leverage Ratio, on a Pro Forma Basis, is less than or equal to 3.20 to 1.00;

 

(b)                                  payments in respect of Junior Financings so long as (i) immediately after giving effect to such payment, Holdings’ Total Net Leverage Ratio is 2.20 to 1.00 or less on a Pro Forma Basis after giving effect thereto and (ii) no Event of Default is continuing immediately prior to making such Restricted Payment or would result therefrom;

 

(c)                                   any payment in respect of Junior Financings made at any time in an amount not exceeding the Shared Dollar Basket at such time; provided that no Event of Default shall exist or would result therefrom;

 

(d)                                  (i) the conversion or exchange of any Junior Financing into or for Equity Interests of any Parent Entity or other Junior Financing and (ii) any payment that is intended to prevent any Junior Financing from being treated as an “applicable high yield discount obligation” within the meaning of Section 163(i)(1) of the Code;

 

(e)                                   the incurrence of Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof;

 

153



 

(f)                                    (i) payments of regularly scheduled principal and interest; (ii) mandatory offers to repay, repurchase or redeem (including in connection with the Net Cash Proceeds of Asset Sales); (iii) mandatory prepayments of principal, premium and interest; and (iv) payments of fees, expenses and indemnification obligations, in each case, with respect to such Junior Financing;

 

(g)                                   payments or distributions in respect of all or any portion of such Junior Financing with the proceeds contributed directly or indirectly to Holdings by any Parent Entity (other than Holdings) from the issuance, sale or exchange by any such Parent Entity of Equity Interests;

 

(h)                                  the Special Closing Date Payments; and

 

(i)                                      the Transactions; or

 

(3)                                  permit any Material Subsidiary to enter into any agreement or instrument that by its terms restricts (a) with respect to any such Material Subsidiary that is not a Loan Party, Restricted Payments from such Material Subsidiary to Holdings or any other Loan Party that is a direct or indirect parent of such Material Subsidiary or (b) with respect to any such Material Subsidiary that is a Loan Party, the granting of Liens by such Material Subsidiary pursuant to the Security Documents; except in the case of this clause (3):

 

(a)                                  restrictions imposed by applicable law;

 

(b)                                  contractual encumbrances or restrictions:

 

(i)                                      under the ABL Loan Documents;

 

(ii)                                   [reserved]; or

 

(iii)                                under any agreement relating to Ratio Debt, Indebtedness incurred pursuant to Section 6.01(1), (2), (4), (5), (7), (12), (13), (16), (21), (22), (25), or (28), Indebtedness that is secured on a pari passu basis with Indebtedness under the Loan Documents or Indebtedness under the ABL Credit Agreement, or any Permitted Refinancing Indebtedness in respect thereof, that does not materially expand the scope of any such encumbrance or restriction;

 

(c)                                   any restriction on a Restricted Subsidiary imposed pursuant to an agreement entered into for the sale or disposition of the Equity Interests or assets of a Restricted Subsidiary pending the closing of such sale or disposition;

 

(d)                                  customary provisions in joint venture agreements and other similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(e)                                   any restrictions imposed by any agreement relating to secured Indebtedness permitted by this Agreement to the extent that such restrictions apply only to the property or assets securing such Indebtedness;

 

154



 

(f)                                    customary provisions contained in leases or licenses of Intellectual Property Rights and other similar agreements entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(g)                                   customary provisions restricting subletting or assignment of any lease governing a leasehold interest;

 

(h)                                  customary provisions restricting assignment of any agreement entered into in the ordinary course of business;

 

(i)                                      customary restrictions and conditions contained in any agreement relating to the sale, transfer or other disposition of any asset permitted under Section 6.05 pending the consummation of such sale, transfer or other disposition;

 

(j)                                     customary restrictions and conditions contained in the document relating to any Lien, so long as (i) such Lien is a Permitted Lien and such restrictions or conditions relate only to the specific asset subject to such Lien and (ii) such restrictions and conditions are not created for the purpose of avoiding the restrictions imposed by this Section 6.09;

 

(k)                                  customary net worth provisions contained in Real Property leases entered into by Restricted Subsidiaries, so long as a Responsible Officer of Holdings has determined in good faith that such net worth provisions would not reasonably be expected to impair the ability of Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries to meet their ongoing obligations;

 

(l)                                      any agreement in effect at the time any Person becomes a Restricted Subsidiary, so long as such agreement was not entered into in contemplation of such Person becoming a Restricted Subsidiary;

 

(m)                              restrictions in agreements representing Indebtedness permitted under Section 6.01 of a Restricted Subsidiary that is not a Subsidiary Loan Party;

 

(n)                                  customary restrictions on leases, subleases, licenses or Equity Interests or asset sale agreements otherwise permitted hereby as long as such restrictions relate to the Equity Interests and assets subject thereto;

 

(o)                                  restrictions on cash or other deposits imposed by customers under contracts entered into in the ordinary course of business; or

 

(p)                                  any encumbrances or restrictions imposed by any amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings of the contracts, instruments or obligations referred to in clauses (a) through (o) above, so long as such amendments, modifications, restatements, renewals, increases, supplements, refundings, replacements or refinancings are, in the good faith judgment of Holdings, not materially more restrictive with respect to such Lien, dividend and other payment restrictions, taken as a whole, than

 

155



 

those contained in the Lien, dividend or other payment restrictions prior to such amendment, modification, restatement, renewal, increase, supplement, refunding, replacement or refinancing.

 

For the purpose of determining compliance with Article VI, in the event that any Lien, Investment, Indebtedness, disposition, Restricted Payment, contractual obligation, encumbrance or restriction or payment, prepayment, repurchase, redemption, defeasance or amendment, modification or other change in respect of Indebtedness meets the criteria of more than one of the categories of transactions permitted pursuant to any clause of the negative covenants, such transaction (or portion thereof) at any time shall be permitted under one or more of such clauses as determined by Holdings in its sole discretion at such time of determination.  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, if Holdings or any Borrower incurs Indebtedness or Liens, or makes dispositions, Restricted Payments, restricted debt payments or Investments under any applicable fixed amount on the same date that it incurs Indebtedness or Liens, or makes Restricted Payments, restricted debt payments or Investments under any applicable ratio-based amount, then the ratio-based amount with respect to the amounts incurred under the ratio-based basket will be calculated without regard to any incurrence under the fixed amount.  Unless Holdings elects otherwise, each ratio-based amount shall be deemed incurred first to the extent permitted, with the balance incurred under the fixed amount.

 

ARTICLE VII

 

[Reserved]

 

ARTICLE VIII

 

Events of Default

 

SECTION 8.01.            Events of Default After Acquisition .  In case of the happening of any of the following events on or after the Closing Date (each, an “ Event of Default ”):

 

(1)                                  any representation or warranty made by Holdings, the Borrowers or any other Loan Party herein or in any other Loan Document or any certificate or document required to be delivered pursuant hereto or thereto shall be incorrect or misleading in any material respect (or in any respect if any such representation or warranty is already qualified by materiality) when made or deemed made;

 

(2)                                  default is made in the payment of any principal of any Term Loan when and as the same becomes due and payable, whether at the due date thereof, at a date fixed for prepayment thereof, by acceleration thereof or otherwise;

 

(3)                                  default is made in the payment of any interest on any Term Loan or in the payment of any Fee or any other amount due under any Loan Document (other than an amount referred to in clause (2) of this Section 8.01), when and as the same becomes due and payable, and such default continues unremedied for a period of five Business Days;

 

156



 

(4)                                  default is made in the due observance or performance by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of any covenant, condition or agreement contained in Section 5.01(1), 5.05(1), 5.08 or in Article VI (in each case solely to the extent applicable to such Person);

 

(5)                                  default is made in the due observance or performance by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary of any covenant, condition or agreement contained in any Loan Document (other than those specified in clauses (2), (3) and (4) of this Section 8.01), in each case solely to the extent applicable to such Person, and such default continues unremedied for a period of 30 days after notice thereof from the Administrative Agent to Holdings;

 

(6)                                  (a) any event or condition occurs that (i) results in any Material Indebtedness (other than the Term Loans) becoming due prior to its scheduled maturity or (ii) enables or permits (with all applicable grace periods having expired) the holder or holders of any Material Indebtedness (other than the Term Loans) or any trustee or agent on its or their behalf to cause any Material Indebtedness (other than the Term Loans) to become due, or to require the prepayment, repurchase, redemption or defeasance thereof, prior to its scheduled maturity or (b) Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary fails to pay the principal of any Material Indebtedness (other than the Term Loans) at the stated final maturity thereof; provided that this clause (6) will not apply to secured Indebtedness that becomes due as a result of the voluntary sale or transfer of the property or assets securing such Indebtedness if such sale or transfer is permitted hereunder and under the documents providing for such Indebtedness; provided , further , that such event or condition is unremedied and is not waived or cured by the holders of such Indebtedness prior to any acceleration of the Term Loans pursuant to this Section 8.01; provided , further , that the failure to observe or perform a financial maintenance covenant under the ABL Credit Agreement (a “ Financial Covenant Default ”) shall not constitute an Event of Default hereunder until the date on which the lenders under the ABL Credit Agreement shall have accelerated payment of the ABL Obligations and terminated the commitments with respect thereto; and, provided , further , that prior to the time it becomes an Event of Default hereunder, any Financial Covenant Default may be waived, amended, terminated or otherwise modified from time to time in accordance with the ABL Credit Agreement;

 

(7)                                  a Change in Control occurs;

 

(8)                                  an involuntary proceeding is commenced or an involuntary petition is filed in a court of competent jurisdiction seeking:

 

(a)                                  relief in respect of Holdings, a Borrower or any of the Material Subsidiaries, or of a substantial part of the property or assets of Holdings, a Borrower or any Material Subsidiary, under any Debtor Relief Law;

 

(b)                                  the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, interim receiver, administrator, monitor, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for Holdings, a Borrower or any of the Material Subsidiaries or for a substantial part of the property or assets of Holdings, a Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary; or

 

157



 

(c)                                   the winding up or liquidation of Holdings, a Borrower or any Material Subsidiary (except, in the case of any Material Subsidiary, in a transaction permitted by Section 6.05) and, in any of clauses (a), (b) or (c), such proceeding or petition continues undismissed for 60 days or an order or decree approving or ordering any of the foregoing is entered;

 

(9)                                  Holdings, a Borrower or any Material Subsidiary:

 

(a)                                  voluntarily commences any proceeding, insolvency proceeding or files any petition seeking relief under any Debtor Relief Law;

 

(b)                                  consents to the institution of, or fails to contest in a timely and appropriate manner, any proceeding or the filing of any petition described in clause (8) of this Section 8.01;

 

(c)                                   applies for or consents to the appointment of a receiver, trustee, custodian, interim receiver, administrator, monitor, sequestrator, conservator or similar official for Holdings, a Borrower or any of the Material Subsidiaries or for a substantial part of the property or assets of Holdings, a Borrower or any Material Subsidiary;

 

(d)                                  files an answer admitting the material allegations of a petition filed against it in any such proceeding;

 

(e)                                   makes a general assignment for the benefit of creditors;

 

(f)                                    if incorporated in France, (i) becomes in cessation des paiements within the meaning or article L.631-1 of the French Code de commerce , (ii) encounters difficulties that it is not able to overcome within the meaning of article L.620-1 of the French Code de commerce, (iii) is subject to a procedure d’alerte by its statutory auditors in accordance with article L.234-1, L.234-2 or L.612-3 of the French Code de commerce , or (iv) is subject to a declared moratorium in respect of any of its indebtedness; or

 

(g)                                   becomes unable or admits in writing its inability or fails generally to pay its debts as they become due (meaning, with respect to any German Loan Party, that any such person is either unable to pay its debts as they fall due ( Zahlungsunfähigkeit ), or is over indebted ( Überschuldung ));

 

(10)                           There is entered against Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary a final judgment or order for the payment of money in an aggregate amount (as to all such judgments and orders) equal to or greater than $50 million (to the extent not covered by insurance), which judgments are not discharged or effectively waived or stayed for a period of 60 consecutive days, or any action is legally taken by a judgment creditor to levy upon assets or properties of Holdings or any other Loan Party to enforce any such judgment;

 

158



 

(11)                           an ERISA Event or ERISA Events occurs with respect to any Plan or Multiemployer Plan, which, together with all other ERISA Events, if any, is reasonably expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; or

 

(12)                           (a) any material provision of any Loan Document ceases to be, or is asserted in writing by Holdings or any Restricted Subsidiary not to be, for any reason, a legal, valid and binding obligation of any party thereto, (b) any security interest purported to be created by any Security Document and to extend to assets that are not immaterial to Holdings and the Restricted Subsidiaries on a consolidated basis ceases to be, or is asserted in writing by Holdings or any other Loan Party not to be, a valid and perfected security interest in the securities, assets or properties covered thereby, except to the extent that any such loss of validity, perfection or priority results from the limitations of laws, rules and regulations of any jurisdiction other than the United States or any Specified Foreign Jurisdiction as they apply to pledges of Equity Interests or the application thereof, or from the failure of the Collateral Agent to maintain possession of certificates actually delivered to it representing securities pledged under a Security Document or to file Uniform Commercial Code continuation statements or take any other action and except to the extent that such loss is covered by a lender’s title insurance policy and the Collateral Agent is reasonably satisfied with the credit of such insurer or (c) the Guarantees pursuant to the Security Documents by any Loan Party of any of the Obligations cease to be in full force and effect (other than in accordance with the terms thereof) or are asserted in writing by Holdings, a Borrower or any other Subsidiary Loan Party not to be in effect or not to be legal, valid and binding obligations, except in the cases of clauses (a) and (b), in connection with an Asset Sale permitted by this Agreement.

 

then, (i) upon the occurrence of any such Event of Default (other than an Event of Default with respect to Holdings or a Borrower described in clause (8) or (9) of this Section 8.01 under the Bankruptcy Code or any other liquidation, bankruptcy, assignment for the benefit of creditors, receivership, insolvency or similar debtor relief law of the United States from time in effect and affecting the rights of creditors generally), and at any time thereafter during the continuance of such Event of Default, the Administrative Agent may and, at the request of the Required Lenders, will, by notice to Holdings, take any or all of the following actions, at the same or different times:  (A) declare the Term Loans then outstanding to be forthwith due and payable in whole or in part, whereupon the principal of the Term Loans so declared to be due and payable, together with accrued interest thereon and any unpaid accrued Fees and all other liabilities of the Borrowers accrued hereunder and under any other Loan Document, will become forthwith due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or any other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived by the Borrowers, anything contained herein or in any other Loan Document to the contrary notwithstanding; and (B) exercise all rights and remedies granted to it under any Loan Document and all of its rights under any other applicable law or in equity, (ii) in any event with respect to Holdings or a Borrower described in clause (8) or (9) of this Section 8.01, the principal of the Term Loans then outstanding, together with accrued interest thereon and any unpaid accrued Fees and all other liabilities of the Borrowers accrued hereunder and under any other Loan Document, will automatically become due and payable, without presentment, demand, protest or any other notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly

 

159



 

waived by the Borrowers, anything contained herein or in any other Loan Document to the contrary notwithstanding.

 

SECTION 8.02.            [Reserved] .

 

ARTICLE IX

 

The Agents

 

SECTION 9.01.            Authorization and Action .

 

(1)                                  Each Lender (in its capacities as a Lender and on behalf of itself and its Affiliates as potential counterparties to Hedge Agreements) hereby irrevocably appoints the entity named as Administrative Agent (which shall not be incorporated, domiciled or acting from an office situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction) in the heading of this Agreement and its successors (which shall not be incorporated, domiciled or acting from an office situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction) to serve as the administrative agent and collateral agent (except in respect of the French Security Documents) under the Loan Documents and each Lender authorizes the Administrative Agent to take such actions as agent on its behalf and to exercise such powers under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents as are delegated to the Administrative Agent under such agreements and to exercise such powers as are reasonably incidental thereto. In addition, to the extent required under the laws of any jurisdiction other than the United States and France, each of the Lenders hereby grants to the Administrative Agent any required powers of attorney to execute and enforce any Security Document governed by the laws of such jurisdiction on such Lender’s behalf. Without limiting the foregoing, each Lender hereby authorizes the Administrative Agent to execute and deliver, and to perform its obligations under, each of the Loan Documents to which the Administrative Agent is a party, to exercise all rights, powers and remedies that the Administrative Agent may have under such Loan Documents.

 

(2)                                  Without limiting the powers of the Administrative Agent, for the purposes of holding any hypothec granted to the Attorney (as defined below) pursuant to the laws of the Province of Québec to secure the prompt payment and performance of any and all Obligations by any Loan Party, each of the Secured Parties hereby irrevocably appoints and authorizes the Administrative Agent and, to the extent necessary, ratifies the appointment and authorization of the Administrative Agent, to act as the hypothecary representative of the creditors as contemplated under Article 2692 of the Civil Code of Québec (in such capacity, the “ Attorney ”), and to enter into, to take and to hold on their behalf, and for their benefit, any hypothec, and to exercise such powers and duties that are conferred upon the Attorney under any related deed of hypothec.  The Attorney shall:  (a) have the sole and exclusive right and authority to exercise, except as may be otherwise specifically restricted by the terms hereof, all rights and remedies given to the Attorney pursuant to any such deed of hypothec and applicable law, and (b) benefit from and be subject to all provisions hereof with respect to the Administrative Agent mutatis mutandis, including, without limitation, all such provisions with respect to the liability or responsibility to and indemnification by the Secured Parties and Loan Parties.  Any person who becomes a

 

160


 

Secured Party shall, by its execution of an Assignment and Acceptance Agreement, be deemed to have consented to and confirmed the Attorney as the person acting as hypothecary representative holding the aforesaid hypothecs as aforesaid and to have ratified, as of the date it becomes a Secured Party, all actions taken by the Attorney in such capacity.  The substitution of the Administrative Agent pursuant to the provisions of this Section 9 also constitute the substitution of the Attorney.

 

(3)                                  As to any matters not expressly provided for by this Agreement and the other Loan Documents (including enforcement or collection), the Administrative Agent shall not be required to exercise any discretion or take any action, but shall be required to act or to refrain from acting (and shall be fully protected in so acting or refraining from acting) upon the written instructions of the Required Lenders (or such other number or percentage of the Lenders as shall be necessary, pursuant to the terms in the Loan Documents), and, unless and until revoked in writing, such instructions shall be binding upon all Lenders; provided , however , that the Administrative Agent shall not be required to take any action that (i) the Administrative Agent in good faith believes exposes it to liability unless the Administrative Agent receives an indemnification satisfactory to it from the Lenders with respect to such action or (ii) is contrary to this Agreement or any other Loan Document or applicable law including any action that may be in violation of the automatic stay under any requirement of law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization or relief of debtors or that may effect a forfeiture, modification or termination of property of a Defaulting Lender in violation of any requirement of law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization or relief of debtors; provided , further , that the Administrative Agent may seek clarification or directions from the Required Lenders prior to the exercise of any such instructed action and may refrain from acting until such clarification or directions have been provided. Except as expressly set forth in the Loan Documents, the Administrative Agent shall not have any duty to disclose, and shall not be liable for the failure to disclose, any information relating to Holdings, the Borrowers, any Subsidiary or any other Affiliate of any of the foregoing that is communicated to or obtained by the Person serving as Administrative Agent or any of its Affiliates in any capacity.

 

(4)                                  In performing its functions and duties hereunder and under the other Loan Documents, the Administrative Agent is acting solely on behalf of the Lenders (except in limited circumstances expressly provided for herein relating to the maintenance of the Register), and its duties are entirely mechanical and administrative in nature. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing:

 

(a)                                  the Administrative Agent does not assume and shall not be deemed to have assumed any obligation or duties other than as expressly set forth herein and in the other Loan Documents or any other relationship as the agent, fiduciary or trustee of or for any Lender or holder of any other Obligation, regardless of whether a Default or an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing (and it is understood and agreed that the use of the term “agent” (or any similar term) herein or in any other Loan Document with reference to the Administrative Agent is not intended to connote any fiduciary duty or other implied (or express) obligations arising under agency doctrine of any applicable law, and that such

 

161



 

term is used as a matter of market custom and is intended to create or reflect only an administrative relationship between contracting parties);

 

(b)                                  where the Administrative Agent is required or deemed to act as a trustee in respect of any Collateral over which a security interest has been created pursuant to a Loan Document expressed to be governed by the laws of Luxembourg, Canada, England and Wales, Germany, France, Spain or Finland, the obligations and liabilities of the Administrative Agent to the Secured Parties in its capacity as trustee shall be excluded to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law;

 

(c)                                   to the extent that English law is applicable to the duties of the Administrative Agent under any of the Loan Documents, Section 1 of the Trustee Act 2000 (UK) shall not apply to the duties of the Collateral Agent in relation to the trusts constituted by this Agreement or the other Loan Documents, where there are inconsistencies or conflict between the Trustee Act 1925 or the Trustee Act 2000 (UK) and the provisions of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, the provisions of this Agreement or such other Loan Document shall, to the extent permitted by applicable law, prevail and, in the case of any inconsistency with the Trustee Act 2000 (UK), the provisions of this Agreement or such other Loan Document shall constitute a restriction or exclusion for the purposes of that Act; and

 

(d)                                  nothing in this Agreement or any Loan Document shall require the Administrative Agent to account to any Lender for any sum or the profit element of any sum received by the Administrative Agent for its own account.

 

(5)                                  The Administrative Agent may perform any of and all its duties and exercise its rights and powers hereunder or under any other Loan Document by or through any one or more sub-agents appointed by the Administrative Agent. The Administrative Agent and any such sub-agent may perform any of and all their respective duties and exercise their respective rights and powers through their respective Related Parties. The exculpatory provisions of this Article shall apply to any such sub-agent and to the Related Parties of the Administrative Agent and any such sub-agent and shall apply to their respective activities in connection with the syndication of the credit facilities provided for herein as well as activities as Administrative Agent. The Administrative Agent shall not be responsible for the negligence or misconduct of any sub-agents except to the extent that a court of competent jurisdiction determines in a final and nonappealable judgment that the Administrative Agent acted with gross negligence or willful misconduct in the selection of such sub-agents.

 

(6)                                  None of the [Syndication Agents, Documentation Agents or any Arranger] shall have obligations or duties whatsoever in such capacity under this Agreement or any other Loan Document and shall incur no liability hereunder or thereunder in such capacity, but all such persons shall have the benefit of the indemnities provided for hereunder.

 

(7)                                  In case of the pendency of any proceeding with respect to any Loan Party under any federal, state or foreign bankruptcy, insolvency, receivership or similar law now or

 

162



 

hereafter in effect, the Administrative Agent (irrespective of whether the principal of any Loan or any reimbursement obligation shall then be due and payable as herein expressed or by declaration or otherwise and irrespective of whether the Administrative Agent shall have made any demand on the Borrowers) shall be entitled and empowered (but not obligated) by intervention in such proceeding or otherwise:

 

(a)                                  to file and prove a claim for the whole amount of the principal and interest owing and unpaid in respect of the Term Loans and all other Obligations that are owing and unpaid and to file such other documents as may be necessary or advisable in order to have the claims of the Lenders and the Administrative Agent (including any claim under Sections 2.09 (“ Fees ”), 2.10 (“ Interest ”), 2.12 (“ Increased Costs ”), 2.14 (“ Taxes ”) and 9.02 (“ Administrative Agent’s Reliance, Indemnification, Etc. ”)) allowed in such judicial proceeding; and

 

(b)                                  to collect and receive any monies or other property payable or deliverable on any such claims and to distribute the same;

 

and any custodian, receiver, assignee, trustee, liquidator, sequestrator or other similar official in any such proceeding is hereby authorized by each Lender and each other Secured Party to make such payments to the Administrative Agent and, in the event that the Administrative Agent shall consent to the making of such payments directly to the Lenders or the other Secured Parties, to pay to the Administrative Agent any amount due to it, in its capacity as the Administrative Agent, under the Loan Documents (including under Section 9.02 (“ Administrative Agent’s Reliance, Indemnification, Etc. ”))

 

(8)                                  The provisions of this Article are solely for the benefit of the Administrative Agent and the Lenders, and, except solely to the extent of the Borrower’s rights to consent pursuant to and subject to the conditions set forth in this Article, none of Holdings, the Borrowers or any Subsidiary shall have any rights as a third party beneficiary of any such provisions. Each Secured Party, whether or not a party hereto, will be deemed, by its acceptance of the benefits of the Collateral and of the Guarantees of the Obligations provided under the Loan Documents, to have agreed to the provisions of this Article.

 

SECTION 9.02.            Administrative Agent’s Reliance, Indemnification, Etc.

 

(1)                                  Neither the Administrative Agent nor any of its Related Parties shall be (i) liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken by it under or in connection with this Agreement or the other Loan Documents with the consent of or at the request of the Required Lenders (or such other number or percentage of the Lenders as shall be necessary, or as the Administrative Agent shall believe in good faith to be necessary, under the circumstances as provided in the Loan Documents) or in the absence of its own gross negligence or willful misconduct (such absence to be presumed unless otherwise determined by a court of competent jurisdiction by a final and nonappealable judgment) or (ii) responsible in any manner to any of the Lenders for any recitals, statements, representations or warranties made by any Loan Party or any officer thereof contained in this Agreement or any other Loan Document or in any certificate, report, statement or other document referred to or provided for in, or received by the Administrative Agent under or in

 

163



 

connection with, this Agreement or any other Loan Document or for the value, validity, effectiveness, genuineness, enforceability or sufficiency of this Agreement or any other Loan Document or for any failure of any Loan Party a party thereto to perform its obligations hereunder or thereunder.

 

(2)                                  The Lenders agree to indemnify the Administrative Agent and its Related Parties (each, an “ Agent Indemnitee ”) (to the extent not reimbursed by Holdings or the Borrower and without limiting the obligation of Holdings or the Borrowers to do so), ratably according to their respective applicable percentage of the Commitments and/or Term Loans in effect on the date on which indemnification is sought under this Section (or, if indemnification is sought after the date upon which the Commitments shall have terminated and the Term Loans shall have been paid in full, ratably in accordance with such applicable percentage of the Commitments and/or Term Loans immediately prior to such date), from and against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and related expenses, including the fees, charges and disbursements of any kind whatsoever that may at any time (whether before or after the payment of the Term Loans) be imposed on, incurred by or asserted against such Agent Indemnitee in any way relating to or arising out of, the Commitments, this Agreement, any of the other Loan Documents or any documents contemplated by or referred to herein or therein or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby or any action taken or omitted by such Agent Indemnitee under or in connection with any of the foregoing; provided that no Lender shall be liable for the payment of any portion of such liabilities, obligations, losses, damages, penalties, actions, judgments, suits, costs, expenses or disbursements that are found by a final and nonappealable decision of a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted from such Agent Indemnitee’s gross negligence or willful misconduct.  The agreements in this Section shall survive the termination of this Agreement and the payment of the Term Loans and all other amounts payable hereunder.

 

(3)                                  The Administrative Agent shall be deemed not to have knowledge of any Default unless and until written notice thereof (stating that it is a “notice of default”) is given to the Administrative Agent by Holdings, the Borrowers or a Lender, and the Administrative Agent shall not be responsible for or have any duty to ascertain or inquire into (i) any statement, warranty or representation made in or in connection with any Loan Document, (ii) the contents of any certificate, report or other document delivered thereunder or in connection therewith, (iii) the performance or observance of any of the covenants, agreements or other terms or conditions set forth in any Loan Document or the occurrence of any Default, (iv) the sufficiency, validity, enforceability, effectiveness or genuineness of any Loan Document or any other agreement, instrument or document, (v) the satisfaction of any condition set forth in Article IV or elsewhere in any Loan Document, other than to confirm receipt of items expressly required to be delivered to the Administrative Agent or satisfaction of any condition that expressly refers to the matters described therein being acceptable or satisfactory to the Administrative Agent or (vi) compliance by Affiliated Lenders with the terms hereof relating to Affiliated Lenders. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, the Administrative Agent shall not be liable for, or be responsible for any loss, cost or expense suffered by Holdings, the

 

164



 

Borrowers, any Subsidiary or any Lender as a result of, any determination of any exchange rate or Dollar equivalent.

 

(4)                                  Without limiting the foregoing, the Administrative Agent (i) may treat the payee of any Note as its holder until such Note has been assigned in accordance with Section 10.04, (ii) may rely on the Register to the extent set forth in Section 10.04, (iii) may consult with legal counsel (including counsel to Holdings and the Borrowers, independent public accountants and other experts selected by it and shall not be liable for any action taken or omitted to be taken in good faith by it in accordance with the advice of such counsel, accountants or experts, (iv) makes no warranty or representation to any Lender and shall not be responsible to any Lender for any statements, warranties or representations made by or on behalf of any Loan Party in or in connection with this Agreement or any other Loan Document, (v) in determining compliance with any condition hereunder to the making of a Loan that by its terms must be fulfilled to the satisfaction of a Lender, may presume that such condition is satisfactory to such Lender unless the Administrative Agent shall have received notice to the contrary from such Lender sufficiently in advance of the making of such Loan and (vi) shall be entitled to rely on and shall incur no liability under or in respect of this Agreement or any other Loan Document by acting upon any notice, consent, certificate or other instrument or writing (which writing may be a fax, any electronic message, Internet or intranet website posting or other distribution) or any statement made to it orally or by telephone and believed by it to be genuine and signed or sent or otherwise authenticated by the proper party or parties (whether or not such Person in fact meets the requirements set forth in the Loan Documents for being the maker thereof).

 

SECTION 9.03.            Posting of Communications .

 

(1)                                  Holdings and the Borrowers hereby acknowledge and agree that (a) the Administrative Agent may, but shall not be obligated to, make available to the Lenders materials or information provided by or on behalf of the Borrowers hereunder (collectively, “ Borrower Materials ”) by posting the communications on IntraLinks™, DebtDomain, SyndTrak, ClearPar or a substantially similar electronic platform chosen by the Administrative Agent to be its electronic transmission system (the “ Approved Electronic Platform ”) and (b) certain of the Lenders may be “public-side” Lenders (i.e., Lenders that do not wish to receive material non-public information with respect to any Borrower or its securities) (each, a “ Public Lender ”).

 

(2)                                  Although the Approved Electronic Platform and its primary web portal are secured with generally applicable security procedures and policies implemented or modified by the Administrative Agent from time to time (including, as of the Closing Date, a user ID/password authorization system) and the Approved Electronic Platform is secured through a per-deal authorization meth-od whereby each user may access the Approved Electronic Platform only on a deal-by-deal basis, each of the Lenders and each of Holdings and the Borrowers acknowledges and agrees that the distribution of material through an electronic medium is not necessarily secure and that there are confidentiality and other risks associated with such distribution. Each of the Lenders and each of Holdings and the Borrowers hereby approves distribution of the communications through

 

165



 

the Approved Electronic Platform and understands and assumes the risks of such distribution.

 

(3)                                  THE APPROVED ELECTRONIC PLATFORM AND THE COMMUNICATIONS ARE PROVIDED “AS IS” AND “AS AVAILABLE”. THE APPLICABLE PARTIES (AS DEFINED BELOW) DO NOT WARRANT THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE COMMUNICATIONS, OR THE ADEQUACY OF THE APPROVED ELECTRONIC PLATFORM AND EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM LIABILITY FOR ERRORS OR OMISSIONS IN THE APPROVED ELECTRONIC PLATFORM AND THE COMMUNICATIONS. NO WARRANTY OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, NON-INFRINGEMENT OF THIRD PARTY RIGHTS OR FREEDOM FROM VIRUSES OR OTHER CODE DEFECTS, IS MADE BY THE APPLICABLE PARTIES IN CONNECTION WITH THE COMMUNICATIONS OR THE APPROVED ELECTRONIC PLATFORM. IN NO EVENT SHALL THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT, ANY ARRANGER, ANY CO-DOCUMENTATION AGENT, THE SYNDICATION AGENT OR ANY OF THEIR RESPECTIVE RELATED PARTIES (COLLECTIVELY, “ APPLICABLE PARTIES ”) HAVE ANY LIABILITY TO ANY LOAN PARTY, ANY LENDER OR ANY OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY FOR DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, DIRECT OR INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, LOSSES OR EXPENSES (WHETHER IN TORT, CONTRACT OR OTHERWISE) ARISING OUT OF ANY LOAN PARTY’S OR THE ADMINISTRATIVE AGENT’S TRANSMISSION OF COMMUNICATIONS THROUGH THE INTERNET OR THE APPROVED ELECTRONIC PLATFORM.

 

(4)                                  Each Lender agrees that notice to it (as provided in the next sentence) specifying that communications have been posted to the Approved Electronic Platform shall constitute effective delivery of the communications to such Lender for purposes of the Loan Documents. Each Lender agrees (i) to notify the Administrative Agent in writing (including by electronic communication) from time to time of such Lender’s email address to which the foregoing notice may be sent by electronic transmission and (ii) that the foregoing notice may be sent to such email address.

 

(5)                                  Each of the Lenders and each of Holdings and the Borrowers agrees that the Administrative Agent may, but (except as may be required by applicable law) shall not be obligated to, store the communications on the Approved Electronic Platform in accordance with the Administrative Agent’s generally applicable document retention procedures and policies

 

(6)                                  Each Borrower hereby agrees that it will use commercially reasonable efforts to identify that portion of the Borrower Materials that may be distributed to the Public Lenders and that:

 

166



 

(a)                                  all the Borrower Materials shall be clearly and conspicuously marked “PUBLIC” which, at a minimum, means that the word “ PUBLIC ” shall appear prominently on the first page thereof;

 

(b)                                  by marking Borrower Materials “ PUBLIC ,” such Borrower shall be deemed to have authorized the Administrative Agent, the Arrangers and the Lenders to treat the Borrower Materials as either publicly available information or not material information (although it may be sensitive and proprietary) with respect to any Borrower or its securities for purposes of United States Federal and state securities laws;

 

(c)                                   all Borrower Materials marked “PUBLIC” are permitted to be made available through a portion of the Platform designated “Public Investor;” and

 

(d)                                  the Administrative Agent and the Arrangers shall be entitled to treat the Borrower Materials that are not marked “PUBLIC” as being suitable only for posting on a portion of the Platform not designated “Public Investor.”.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the following Borrower Materials shall be deemed to be marked “PUBLIC” unless Holdings notifies the Administrative Agent that any such document contains MNPI:  (1) the Loan Documents, (2) any notification of changes in the terms of the Term Loans, (3) any notification of the identity of Disqualified Institutions and (4) all information delivered pursuant to clauses (1), (2) and (3) of Section 5.04.

 

(7)                                  Nothing herein shall prejudice the right of the Administrative Agent or any Lender to give any notice or other communication pursuant to any Loan Document in any other manner specified in such Loan Document.

 

SECTION 9.04.            The Administrative Agent Individually .  With respect to its Commitment and Term Loans, the Person serving as the Administrative Agent shall have and may exercise the same rights and powers hereunder and is subject to the same obligations and liabilities as and to the extent set forth herein for any other Lender. The terms “Lenders”, “Required Lenders” and any similar terms shall, unless the context clearly otherwise indicates, include the Administrative Agent in its individual capacity as a Lender or as one of the Required Lenders. The Person serving as the Administrative Agent and its Affiliates may accept deposits from, lend money to, own securities of, act as the financial advisor or in any other advisory capacity for and generally engage in any kind of banking, trust or other business with, Holdings, the Borrowers or any Subsidiary or any other Affiliate of any of the foregoing as if such Person were not acting as the Administrative Agent and without any duty to account therefor to the Lenders.

 

SECTION 9.05.            Successor Administrative Agent .

 

(1)                                  The Administrative Agent may resign at any time by giving 30 days’ prior written notice thereof to the Lenders and the Borrowers, whether or not a successor Administrative Agent has been appointed. Upon any such resignation, the Required Lenders shall have the right to appoint a successor Administrative Agent (which shall not be incorporated,

 

167



 

domiciled or acting from an office situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction). If no successor Administrative Agent shall have been so appointed by the Required Lenders, and shall have accepted such appointment, within 30 days after the retiring Administrative Agent’s giving of notice of resignation, then the retiring Administrative Agent may, on behalf of the Lenders, appoint a successor Administrative Agent, which shall be a bank with an office in New York, New York or an Affiliate of any such bank selected from among the Lenders and which shall not be incorporated, domiciled or acting from an office situated in a Non-Cooperative Jurisdiction. In either case, such appointment shall be subject to the prior written approval of the Borrowers (which approval may not be unreasonably withheld and shall not be required while a Specified Event of Default has occurred and is continuing). Upon the acceptance of any appointment as Administrative Agent by a successor Administrative Agent, such successor Administrative Agent shall succeed to, and become vested with, all the rights, powers, privileges and duties of the retiring Administrative Agent. Upon the acceptance of appointment as Administrative Agent by a successor Administrative Agent, the retiring Administrative Agent shall be discharged from its duties and obligations under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents. Prior to any retiring Administrative Agent’s resignation hereunder as Administrative Agent, the retiring Administrative Agent shall take such action as may be reasonably necessary to assign to the successor Administrative Agent its rights as Administrative Agent under the Loan Documents.

 

(2)                                  Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this Section, in the event no successor Administrative Agent shall have been so appointed and shall have accepted such appointment within 30 days after the retiring Administrative Agent gives notice of its intent to resign, the retiring Administrative Agent may give notice of the effectiveness of its resignation to the Lenders and the Borrowers, whereupon, on the date of effectiveness of such resignation stated in such notice, (i) the retiring Administrative Agent shall be discharged from its duties and obligations hereunder and under the other Loan Documents; provided that, solely for purposes of maintaining any security interest granted to the Administrative Agent under any Security Documents for the benefit of the Secured Parties, the retiring Administrative Agent shall continue to be vested with such security interest as collateral agent for the benefit of the Secured Parties, and continue to be entitled to the rights and bound to the obligations set forth in such Security Documents and any other Loan Document, and, in the case of any Collateral in the possession of the Administrative Agent, shall continue to hold such Collateral, in each case until such time as a successor Administrative Agent is appointed and accepts such appointment in accordance with this Section (it being understood and agreed that the retiring Administrative Agent shall have no duty or obligation to take any further action under any Security Document, including any action required to maintain the perfection of any such security interest), and (ii) the Required Lenders shall succeed to and become vested with all the rights, powers, privileges and duties of the retiring Administrative Agent; provided that (A) all payments required to be made hereunder or under any other Loan Document to the Administrative Agent for the account of any Person other than the Administrative Agent shall be made directly to such Person and (B) all notices and other communications required or contemplated to be given or made to the Administrative Agent shall also directly be given or made to each Lender. Following the effectiveness of

 

168



 

the Administrative Agent’s resignation from its capacity as such, the provisions of this Article and 9.02 (“ Administrative Agent’s Reliance, Indemnification, Etc. ”), as well as any exculpatory, reimbursement and indemnification provisions set forth in any other Loan Document, shall continue in effect for the benefit of such retiring Administrative Agent, its sub-agents and their respective Related Parties in respect of any actions taken or omitted to be taken by any of them while the resigned Administrative Agent was acting as Administrative Agent and in respect of the matters referred to in the proviso under clause (i) above.

 

SECTION 9.06.            Acknowledgements of Lenders .

 

(1)                                  Each Lender acknowledges and agrees that the extensions of credit made hereunder are commercial loans and not investments in a business enterprise or securities.  Each Lender further represents that it is engaged in making, acquiring or holding commercial loans in the ordinary course of its business and that it has, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent, any Arranger or any other Lender, or any of the Related Parties of any of the foregoing, and based on such documents and information as it has deemed appropriate, made its own credit analysis and decision to enter into this Agreement. Each Lender also acknowledges that it will, independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent, any Arranger or any other Lender, or any of the Related Parties of any of the foregoing, and based on such documents and information as it shall from time to time deem appropriate, continue to make its own decisions in taking or not taking action under or based upon this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any related agreement or any document furnished hereunder or thereunder.

 

(2)                                  Each Lender, by delivering its signature page to this Agreement on the Closing Date and by funding its Term Loans on the Closing Date, or delivering its signature page to an Assignment and Acceptance or any other Loan Document pursuant to which it shall become a Lender hereunder, shall be deemed to have acknowledged receipt of, and consented to and approved, each Loan Document and each other document required to be delivered to, or be approved by or satisfactory to, the Administrative Agent or the Lenders on the Closing Date.

 

SECTION 9.07.            Collateral Matters .

 

(1)                                  Except with respect to the exercise of setoff rights in accordance with Section 10.06 (“ Right of Set-off ) or with respect to a Secured Party’s right to file a proof of claim in an insolvency proceeding, no Secured Party shall have any right individually to realize upon any of the Collateral or to enforce any Guarantee of the Obligations, it being understood and agreed that all powers, rights and remedies under the Loan Documents may be exercised solely by the Administrative Agent on behalf of the Secured Parties in accordance with the terms thereof.

 

(2)                                  In furtherance of the foregoing, and except in respect of the French Security Documents, and not in limitation thereof, no Hedge Agreement the obligations under which constitute Specified Hedge Obligations, will create (or be deemed to create) in favor of any Secured Party that is a party thereto any rights in connection with the management or release of

 

169



 

any Collateral or of the obligations of any Loan Party under any Loan Document. By accepting the benefits of the Collateral, each Secured Party that is a party to any such arrangement in respect of Hedge Agreement shall be deemed to have appointed the Administrative Agent to serve as administrative agent and collateral agent under the Loan Documents and agreed to be bound by the Loan Documents as a Secured Party thereunder, subject to the limitations set forth in this paragraph.

 

(3)                                  The Secured Parties irrevocably authorize the Administrative Agent, at its option and in its discretion, to subordinate any Lien on any property granted to or held by the Administrative Agent under any Loan Document to the holder of any Lien on such property that is permitted by Section 6.02. The Administrative Agent shall not be responsible for or have a duty to ascertain or inquire into any representation or warranty regarding the existence, value or collectability of the Collateral, the existence, priority or perfection of the Administrative Agent’s Lien thereon or any certificate prepared by any Loan Party in connection therewith, nor shall the Administrative Agent be responsible or liable to the Lenders or any other Secured Party for any failure to monitor or maintain any portion of the Collateral.

 

SECTION 9.08.            Credit Bidding .  The Secured Parties hereby irrevocably authorize the Administrative Agent, at the direction of the Required Lenders, to credit bid all or any portion of the Obligations (including by accepting some or all of the Collateral in satisfaction of some or all of the Obligations pursuant to a deed in lieu of foreclosure or otherwise) and in such manner purchase (either directly or through one or more acquisition vehicles) all or any portion of the Collateral (a) at any sale thereof conducted under the provisions of the Bankruptcy Code, including under Sections 363, 1123 or 1129 of the Bankruptcy Code, or any similar laws in any other jurisdictions to which a Loan Party is subject, or (b) at any other sale, foreclosure or acceptance of collateral in lieu of debt conducted by (or with the consent or at the direction of) the Administrative Agent (whether by judicial action or otherwise) in accordance with any applicable law. In connection with any such credit bid and purchase, the Obligations owed to the Secured Parties shall be entitled to be, and shall be, credit bid by the Administrative Agent at the direction of the Required Lenders on a ratable basis (with Obligations with respect to contingent or unliquidated claims receiving contingent interests in the acquired assets on a ratable basis that shall vest upon the liquidation of such claims in an amount proportional to the liquidated portion of the contingent claim amount used in allocating the contingent interests) for the asset or assets so purchased (or for the equity interests or debt instruments of the acquisition vehicle or vehicles that are issued in connection with such purchase). In connection with any such bid, (i) the Administrative Agent shall be authorized to form one or more acquisition vehicles and to assign any successful credit bid to such acquisition vehicle or vehicles, (ii) each of the Secured Parties’ ratable interests in the Obligations which were credit bid shall be deemed without any further action under this Agreement to be assigned to such vehicle or vehicles for the purpose of closing such sale, (iii) the Administrative Agent shall be authorized to adopt documents providing for the governance of the acquisition vehicle or vehicles ( provided that any actions by the Administrative Agent with respect to such acquisition vehicle or vehicles, including any disposition of the assets or equity interests thereof, shall be governed, directly or indirectly, by, and the governing documents shall provide for, control by the vote of the Required Lenders or their permitted assignees under the terms of this Agreement

 

170


 

or the governing documents of the applicable acquisition vehicle or vehicles, as the case may be, irrespective of the termination of this Agreement and without giving effect to the limitations on actions by the Required Lenders contained in Section 10.02 of this Agreement), (iv) the Administrative Agent on behalf of such acquisition vehicle or vehicles shall be authorized to issue to each of the Secured Parties, ratably on account of the relevant Obligations which were credit bid, interests, whether as equity, partnership, limited partnership interests or membership interests, in any such acquisition vehicle and/or debt instruments issued by such acquisition vehicle, all without the need for any Secured Party or acquisition vehicle to take any further action, and (v) to the extent that Obligations that are assigned to an acquisition vehicle are not used to acquire Collateral for any reason (as a result of another bid being higher or better, because the amount of Obligations assigned to the acquisition vehicle exceeds the amount of Obligations credit bid by the acquisition vehicle or otherwise), such Obligations shall automatically be reassigned to the Secured Parties pro rata with their original interest in such Obligations and the equity interests and/or debt instruments issued by any acquisition vehicle on account of such Obligations shall automatically be cancelled, without the need for any Secured Party or any acquisition vehicle to take any further action. Notwithstanding that the ratable portion of the Obligations of each Secured Party are deemed assigned to the acquisition vehicle or vehicles as set forth in clause (ii) above, each Secured Party shall execute such documents and provide such information regarding the Secured Party (and/or any designee of the Secured Party which will receive interests in or debt instruments issued by such acquisition vehicle) as the Administrative Agent may reasonably request in connection with the formation of any acquisition vehicle, the formulation or submission of any credit bid or the consummation of the transactions contemplated by such credit bid.

 

SECTION 9.09.            Intercreditor Agreement .  The Administrative Agent, and the Collateral Agent are authorized by the Lenders and each other Secured Party to, to the extent required by the terms of the Loan Documents, (i) enter into any intercreditor agreement contemplated by this Agreement, (ii) enter into any Security Document, or (iii) make or consent to any filings or take any other actions in connection therewith (and any amendments, amendments and restatements, restatements or waivers of or supplements to or other modifications to, such agreements in connection with the incurrence by any Loan Party of any Indebtedness of such Loan Party that is permitted to be secured pursuant to Sections 6.01 and 6.02 of this Agreement, in order to permit such Indebtedness to be secured by a valid, perfected lien on the Collateral (with such priority as may be designated by such Loan Party, to the extent such priority is permitted by the Loan Documents)), and the parties hereto acknowledge that any intercreditor agreement, Security Document, consent, filing or other action will be binding upon them.  Each Lender and each other Secured Party (a) hereby agrees that it will be bound by and will take no actions contrary to the provisions of any intercreditor agreement (if entered into) and (b) hereby authorizes and instructs the Administrative Agent and the Collateral Agent to enter into any intercreditor agreement contemplated by this Agreement or Security Document (and any amendments, amendments and restatements, restatements or waivers of or supplements to or other modifications to, such agreements in connection with the incurrence by any Loan Party of any Indebtedness of such Loan Party that is permitted to be secured pursuant to Sections 6.01 and 6.02 of this Agreement, in order to permit such Indebtedness to be secured by a valid, perfected lien on the Collateral (with such priority as may be designated by such Loan Party, to

 

171



 

the extent such priority is permitted by the Loan Documents)), and to subject the Liens on the Collateral securing the Obligations to the provisions thereof.

 

SECTION 9.10.            Collateral Agent as UK Security Trustee.

 

(1)                                  For the purposes of any Liens created under the UK Security Documents, the following additional provisions shall apply, in addition to the provisions set out in this Article IX or otherwise in this Agreement.

 

(2)                                  In this Section 9.11, the following expressions have the following meanings:

 

Appointee means any receiver, administrator or other insolvency officer appointed in respect of any Loan Party or its assets.

 

Charged Property means the assets of the Loan Parties subject to a security interest under the UK Security Documents.

 

Delegate means any delegate, agent, attorney or co-trustee appointed by the Collateral Agent (in its capacity as security trustee).

 

(3)                                  The Secured Parties appoint the Collateral Agent to hold the security interests constituted by the UK Security Documents on trust for the Secured Parties on the terms of the Loan Documents and the Collateral Agent accepts that appointment.

 

(4)                                  The Collateral Agent, its subsidiaries and associated companies may each retain for its own account and benefit any fee, remuneration and profits paid to it in connection with (i) its activities under the Loan Documents; and (ii) its engagement in any kind of banking or other business with any Secured Party.

 

(5)                                  Nothing in this Agreement constitutes the Collateral Agent as a trustee or fiduciary of, nor shall the Collateral Agent have any duty or responsibility to, any Secured Party.

 

(6)                                  The Collateral Agent shall have no duties or obligations to any other Person except for those which are expressly specified in the Loan Documents or mandatorily required by applicable law.

 

(7)                                  The Collateral Agent, in consultation with Holdings, may appoint one or more Delegates on such terms (which may include the power to sub-delegate) and subject to such conditions as it thinks fit, to exercise and perform all or any of the duties, rights, powers and discretions vested in it by the UK Security Documents and shall not be obliged to supervise any Delegate or be responsible to any person for any loss incurred by reason of any act, omission, misconduct or default on the part of any Delegate.

 

(8)                                  The Collateral Agent may (whether for the purpose of complying with any law or regulation of any overseas jurisdiction, or for any other reason) appoint (and subsequently remove) any person to act jointly with the Collateral Agent either as a separate trustee or as a co-trustee on such terms and subject to such conditions as the Collateral Agent thinks fit and with such of the duties, rights, powers and discretions

 

172



 

vested in the Collateral Agent by the UK Security Documents as may be conferred by the instrument of appointment of that person.

 

(9)                                  The Collateral Agent shall notify the Lenders of the appointment of each Appointee (other than a Delegate).

 

(10)                           The Collateral Agent may pay reasonable remuneration to any Delegate or Appointee, together with any costs and expenses (including legal fees) reasonably incurred by the Delegate or Appointee in connection with its appointment.  All such remuneration, costs and expenses shall be treated, for the purposes of this Agreement, as paid or incurred by the Collateral Agent.

 

(11)                           Each Delegate and each Appointee shall have every benefit, right, power and discretion and the benefit of every exculpation (together “ Rights ) of the Collateral Agent (in its capacity as security trustee) under the UK Security Documents, and each reference to the Collateral Agent (where the context requires that such reference is to the Collateral Agent in its capacity as security trustee) in the provisions of the UK Security Documents which confer Rights shall be deemed to include a reference to each Delegate and each Appointee.

 

(12)                           Each Secured Party confirms its approval of the UK Security Documents and authorizes and instructs the Collateral Agent: (i) to execute and deliver the UK Security Documents; (ii) to exercise the rights, powers and discretions given to the Collateral Agent (in its capacity as security trustee) under or in connection with the UK Security Documents together with any other incidental rights, powers and discretions; and (iii) to give any authorizations and confirmations to be given by the Collateral Agent (in its capacity as security trustee) on behalf of the Secured Parties under the UK Security Documents.

 

(13)                           The Collateral Agent may accept without inquiry the title (if any) which any person may have to the Charged Property.

 

(14)                           Each other Secured Party confirms that it does not wish to be registered as a joint proprietor of any security interest constituted by a UK Security Document and accordingly authorizes: (a) the Collateral Agent to hold such security interest in its sole name (or in the name of any Delegate) as trustee for the Secured Parties; and (b) the Land Registry (or other relevant registry) to register the Collateral Agent (or any Delegate or Appointee) as a sole proprietor of such security interest.

 

(15)                           On a disposal of any of the Charged Property which is permitted under the Loan Documents, the Collateral Agent shall (at the cost of the Loan Parties) execute any release of the UK Security Documents or other claim over that Charged Property and issue any certificates of non-crystallisation of floating charges that may be required or take any other action that the Collateral Agent considers desirable and/or as requested by Holdings or the Secured Parties.

 

(16)                           The Collateral Agent shall not be liable for: (i) any defect in or failure of the title (if any) which any person may have to any assets over which security is intended to be created by

 

173



 

a UK Security Document; (ii) any loss resulting from the investment or deposit at any bank of moneys which it invests or deposits in a manner permitted by a UK Security Document; (iii) the exercise of, or the failure to exercise, any right, power or discretion given to it by or in connection with any Loan Document or any other agreement, arrangement or document entered into, or executed in anticipation of, under or in connection with, any Loan Document; or (iv) any shortfall which arises on enforcing a UK Security Document.

 

(17)                           The Collateral Agent shall not be obligated to: (i) obtain any authorization or environmental permit in respect of any of the Charged Property or a UK Security Document; (ii) perfect, protect, register, make any filing or give any notice in respect of a UK Security Document (or the order of ranking of a UK Security Document); or (iii) require any further assurances in relation to a UK Security Document.

 

(18)                           In respect of any UK Security Document, the Collateral Agent shall not be obligated to: (i) insure, or require any other person to insure, the Charged Property; or (ii) make any enquiry or conduct any investigation into the legality, validity, effectiveness, adequacy or enforceability of any insurance existing over such Charged Property.

 

(19)                           In respect of any UK Security Document, the Collateral Agent shall not have any obligation or duty to any person for any loss suffered as a result of: (i) the lack or inadequacy of any insurance; or (ii) the failure of the Collateral Agent to notify the insurers of any material fact relating to the risk assumed by them, or of any other information of any kind, unless the Lenders have requested it to do so in writing and the Collateral Agent has failed to do so within fourteen (14) days after receipt of that request.

 

(20)                           Every appointment of a successor Collateral Agent under a UK Security Document shall be by deed.

 

(21)                           Section 1 of the Trustee Act 2000 shall not apply to the duties of the Collateral Agent in relation to the trusts constituted by this Agreement or the other Loan Documents.

 

(22)                           In the case of any inconsistencies or conflict between the Trustee Act 1925 or the Trustee Act 2000 (UK) and the provisions of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, the provisions of this Agreement or such other Loan Document shall, to the extent permitted by applicable law, prevail and, in the case of any inconsistency with the Trustee Act 2000 (UK), the provisions of this Agreement or such other Loan Document shall constitute a restriction or exclusion for the purposes of that Act.

 

(23)                           The perpetuity period under the rule against perpetuities if applicable to this Agreement and any UK Security Document shall be 80 years from the date of this Agreement.

 

SECTION 9.11.            Special provisions relating to the Agents for Spain.

 

(1)                                  Subject to the relevant compliance with the Spanish applicable laws and notarization formalities, each Secured Party hereby grants full power to the Agents so that each of the Agents (joint and severally - solidariamente ), acting through a duly appointed

 

174



 

representative, may execute on behalf of itself and each other party all the necessary grantings, releases or confirmations of any Lien created under the Spanish Security Documents agreed upon in accordance with the Loan Documents. In particular:

 

(a)                                  notarize or raise into the status of Spanish Public Document any Loan Document or Spanish Security Document;

 

(b)                                  appear before a Notary Public and accept any type of guarantee or security, whether personal or real, granted in favor of the Secured Parties (whether in its own capacity or as agents for other parties) over any and all shares, rights, receivables, goods and chattels, fixing their price for the purposes of an auction and the address for serving of notices and submitting to the jurisdiction of law courts by waiving its own forum, and release such guarantees or security, all of the foregoing under the terms and conditions which the attorney may freely agree, signing the notarial deeds ( escrituras públicas ) or intervened policies ( póliza intervenidas ) that the attorney may deem fit;

 

(c)                                   ratify, if necessary or convenient, any such escrituras públicas or pólizas intervenidas executed by an orally appointed representative in the name or on behalf of the Secured Parties;

 

(d)                                  execute and/or deliver any and all deeds, documents and do any and all acts and things required in connection with the execution of the Spanish Security Documents, and/or the execution of any further notarial deed of amendment ( escritura pública de rectificación o subsanación ) that may be required for the purpose of or in connection with the powers granted in this clause;

 

(e)                                   execute in the name of any of the Secured Parties (whether in its own capacity or as agent for other parties) any novation, amendment or ratification to any Loan Document or Spanish Security Documents and appear before a Notary Public and raise any document into the status of a public document;

 

(f)                                    appoint a Spanish Notary as the Agents deem convenient, for the formalization of whichever public documents that may be necessary in relation to the enforcement of the relevant Spanish Security Documents and formalize them in the name of the relevant Secured Party;

 

(g)                                   request and obtain the copy issued for enforcement purposes ( copia ejecutiva ) of the notarial deed by virtue of which the Lien was created and to such effect, follow the instructions received from the Agents;

 

(h)                                  take any action or appear in any proceeding in Spain, as may be required by the Agents, as applicable, to enforce the Spanish Lien and Spanish Security Documents; and

 

175



 

(i)                                      grant any documents or carry out actions necessary or convenient for the enforcement of the Lien and the Spanish Security Documents under the instructions received from the Agents under this Agreement.

 

(2)                                  It is hereby agreed that, in relation to the Spanish jurisdiction, the relationship of the Secured Parties, as secured parties under the Spanish Security Documents and as parties to the Loan Documents, to the Agents in relation to any Spanish Security Documents shall be construed as one of principal ( comitente ) and agent ( comisionista ). The Agents shall not have, or be deemed to have, assumed any obligations to or fiduciary relationship with, any party to this Agreement other than those for which specific provision is made by the Spanish Security Documents, the Loan Documents and this Agreement.

 

(3)                                  As an exception to the above, to the extent any Secured Party is unable to grant such powers referred to in paragraph (1) above to the Agents or such powers of attorney are not recognized, each such Secured Party undertakes to (i) exercise in conjunction with the Agents and in the same act those powers which otherwise would have been conferred on the Agents or (ii) grant a notarial power of attorney duly notarized and apostilled or legalized (as the case may be) empowering the Agents (or its successor as a result of a change of any Agent) to carry out any of the actions referred to above that may be required in Spain. Such power of attorney shall be granted at the request of the Agents.

 

(4)                                  The guarantees and Liens may be granted under the Spanish Security Documents in favor of each and every Secured Party to secure the Obligations (expressly excluding the Parallel Debt (as defined in the Intercreditor Agreement)) and shall not be held on trust by the Agents unless expressly permitted by law. Nevertheless, and subject to paragraph (3) above, the Agents shall be entitled to accept the Lien granted under the Spanish Security Documents in the name and behalf of the Secured Parties by virtue of the powers granted in this section 9.12.

 

(5)                                  In the event that, in accordance with the rules referred to in this Section or in the relevant Spanish Security Document, the relevant Secured Parties decided to enforce any Lien the following shall apply:

 

(a)                                  The Agents shall give the Secured Parties a written notice of the decision to enforce any Lien.

 

(b)                                  If necessary, the relevant Secured Parties will grant a notarial power-of-attorney in favor of the Agents to carry out the actions necessary for such enforcement in accordance with the provisions of this Agreement. Should any of the relevant Secured Parties not be able to grant such powers of attorney, it undertakes to appear together with the Agents to formalize any required actions or measures or to ratify as soon as possible the actions performed by the Agents.

 

(c)                                   The Secured Parties undertake to cooperate with the Agents whenever necessary to ensure that enforcement of the Lien is successful.

 

(6)                                  Each Secured Parties empower (including the power of self-contract ( subcontratar ), the power of substitution and sub-empowering (sustitución y subapoderamiento)) and

 

176



 

authorises the Agents to perform the duties, obligations and responsibilities and to exercise the rights, powers, authorities and discretions specifically given to the Agents under or in connection with the Spanish Security Documents together with any other incidental rights, powers, authorities and discretions expressly including appearing before a Spanish public notary to grant or execute any public or private deed related to this mandate and, specifically, those deemed necessary or appropriate according to the mandate received (including, but not limited to, documents of formalization, acknowledgement, confirmation, modification or release, acceptance of any security). Specifically, the Secured Parties hereby empower the Agents to enforce any guarantee or Lien granted in relation to this Agreement in relation to any Spanish Loan Party or any Spanish Security Documents.

 

(7)                                  Each of the Secured Parties undertake to the Agents that, promptly upon request, such Secured Party will ratify and confirm all transactions entered into and other actions by the Agents (or any of its substitutes or delegates) in the proper exercise of the power granted to it hereunder.

 

(8)                                  At the request of the Agents, the Secured Parties undertake to: (i) grant a notarial power of attorney in favor of the Agents for any action to be carried out by the Agents in Spain under the instructions received in accordance with this Agreement; and/or (ii) take any action or appear in any proceeding in Spain, as may be required by the Agents and, to such effect, follow the instructions received from any Agents.

 

ARTICLE X

 

Miscellaneous

 

SECTION 10.01.     Notices; Communications .

 

(1)                                  Except in the case of notices and other communications expressly permitted to be given by telephone (and except as provided in Section 10.01(2)), all notices and other communications provided for herein shall be in writing and shall be delivered by hand or overnight courier service, mailed by certified or registered mail or sent by facsimile or e-mail, and all notices and other communications expressly permitted hereunder to be given by telephone shall be made to the applicable telephone number, in each case, as follows:

 

(a)                                  if to any Loan Party or the Administrative Agent, to the address, facsimile number, e-mail address or telephone number specified for such Person on Schedule 10.01; and

 

(b)                                  if to any other Lender, to the address, facsimile number, e-mail address or telephone number specified in its Administrative Questionnaire (including, as appropriate, notices delivered solely to the Person designated by a Lender on its Administrative Questionnaire then in effect for the delivery of notices that may contain material non-public information relating to the Borrower).

 

177


 

(2)                                  Notices and other communications to the Lenders may be delivered or furnished by electronic communication (including e-mail and Internet or intranet websites) pursuant to procedures approved by the Administrative Agent; provided that the foregoing shall not apply to notices to any Lender pursuant to Article II if such Lender has notified the Administrative Agent that it is incapable of receiving notices under such Article by electronic communication.  The Administrative Agent or Holdings may, in its discretion, agree to accept notices and other communications to it hereunder by electronic communications pursuant to procedures approved by it; provided that approval of such procedures may be limited to particular notices or communications.

 

(3)                                  Notices sent by hand or overnight courier service, or mailed by certified or registered mail, shall be deemed to have been given when received.  Notices sent by facsimile shall be deemed to have been given when sent and confirmation of transmission received (except that, if not given during normal business hours for the recipient, shall be deemed to have been given at the opening of business on the next Business Day for the recipient).  Notices delivered through electronic communications to the extent provided in Section 10.01(2) shall be effective as provided in such Section 10.01(2).

 

(4)                                  Any party hereto may change its address, facsimile number or e-mail address for notices and other communications hereunder by notice to the other parties hereto.  Any party hereto may change its address, facsimile or telephone number for notices and other communications hereunder by notice to the other parties hereto.  Each other Lender may change its address, facsimile or telephone number for notices and other communications hereunder by notice to Holdings and the Administrative Agent.  In addition, each Lender agrees to notify the Administrative Agent from time to time to ensure that the Administrative Agent has on record (i) an effective address, contact name, telephone number, facsimile number and electronic mail address to which notices and other communications may be sent and (ii) accurate wire instructions for such Lender.  Furthermore, each Public Lender agrees to cause at least one individual at or on behalf of such Public Lender to at all times have selected the “Private Side Information” or similar designation on the content declaration screen of the Platform in order to enable such Public Lender or its delegate, in accordance with such Public Lender’s compliance procedures and applicable law, including United States federal and state securities laws, to make reference to Borrower Materials that are not made available through the “Public Side Information” portion of the Platform and that may contain material non-public information with respect to Holdings or its securities for purposes of United States federal or state securities laws.

 

(5)                                  Documents required to be delivered pursuant to Section 5.04 (to the extent any such documents are included in materials otherwise filed with the SEC) may be delivered electronically (including as set forth in Section 10.17) and if so delivered, shall be deemed to have been delivered on the date (a) on which Holdings posts such documents or provides a link thereto on Holdings’ website on the Internet at the website address listed on Schedule 10.01 or (b) on which such documents are posted on Holdings’ behalf on an Internet or intranet website, if any, to which each Lender and the Administrative Agent have access (whether a commercial, third-party website or whether sponsored by the Administrative Agent); provided that Holdings shall notify the Administrative Agent

 

178



 

(by facsimile or e-mail) of the posting of any such documents and provide to the Administrative Agent by electronic mail electronic versions (i.e., soft copies) of such documents; provided , further , that, upon reasonable request by the Administrative Agent, Holdings shall also provide a hard copy to the Administrative Agent of any such document; provided , further , that any documents posted for which a link is provided after normal business hours for the recipient shall be deemed to have been given at the opening of business on the next Business Day for such recipient.  The Administrative Agent shall have no obligation to request the delivery or to maintain copies of the documents referred to above, and in any event shall have no responsibility to monitor compliance by the Loan Parties with any such request for delivery, and each Lender shall be solely responsible for requesting delivery to it or maintaining its copies of such documents.

 

SECTION 10.02.     Survival of Agreement .  All covenants, agreements, representations and warranties made by the Loan Parties herein, in the other Loan Documents and in the certificates or other instruments prepared or delivered in connection with or pursuant to this Agreement or any other Loan Document will be considered to have been relied upon by the Lenders and shall survive the making by the Lenders of the Term Loans and the execution and delivery of the Loan Documents, regardless of any investigation made by such Persons or on their behalf, and shall continue in full force and effect as long as the principal of or any accrued interest on any Term Loan or any Fee or any other amount payable under this Agreement or any other Loan Document is outstanding and unpaid and so long as the Commitments have not been terminated.  Without prejudice to the survival of any other agreements contained herein, indemnification and reimbursement obligations contained herein (including pursuant to Sections 2.12, 2.14 and 10.05) shall survive the payment in full of the principal and interest hereunder and the termination of the Commitments or this Agreement.

 

SECTION 10.03.     [Reserved] .

 

SECTION 10.04.     Successors and Assigns .

 

(1)                                  The provisions of this Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors and assigns permitted hereby, except that (a) the Borrowers may not assign or otherwise transfer any of their rights or obligations hereunder without the prior written consent of each Lender (and any attempted assignment or transfer by the Borrowers without such consent shall be null and void), and (b) no Lender may assign or otherwise transfer its rights or obligations hereunder except in accordance with this Section 10.04 (and any attempted assignment, transfer or delegation in contravention with this Section 10.04 shall be null and void).  Nothing in this Agreement, expressed or implied, shall be construed to confer upon any Person (other than the parties hereto, their respective successors and assigns permitted hereby, Participants (to the extent provided in paragraph (3) of this Section 10.04) and, to the extent expressly contemplated hereby, the Related Parties of each of the Agents and the Lenders) any legal or equitable right, remedy or claim under or by reason of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents.

 

(2)                                  (a) Subject to the conditions set forth in paragraph (2)(b) of this Section 10.04 (and, with respect to an assignment to Holdings, the Borrowers, any Subsidiary or any of their

 

179



 

respective Affiliates, subject to the limitations set forth in Section 10.04(10) or 10.04(14), as applicable), any Lender may assign to one or more assignees (other than a natural person, a Defaulting Lender or (to the extent the list thereof is provided to all Lenders) a Disqualified Institution) (each such non-excluded Person, an “ Assignee ”) all or a portion of its rights and obligations under this Agreement (including all or a portion of the Term Loans at the time owing to it) with the prior written consent (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, delayed or conditioned) of:

 

(i)                                      the Borrowers; provided that no consent of any Borrower shall be required for an assignment to a Lender, an Affiliate of a Lender, an Approved Fund or, if a Specified Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, any other Person; provided , further , that such consent shall be deemed to have been given if the Borrowers have not responded within ten Business Days after delivery of a written request therefor by the Administrative Agent; provided, further , that no consent of the Borrowers shall be required for any assignment by any Arranger (or any Affiliate thereof) pursuant to the initial syndication of the Term Loans; and

 

(ii)                                   the Administrative Agent; provided that no consent of the Administrative Agent shall be required for an assignment of all or any portion of a Term Loan to a Lender, an Affiliate of a Lender or an Approved Fund.

 

(b)                                  Assignments shall be subject to the following additional conditions:

 

(i)                                      except in the case of an assignment to a Lender, an Affiliate of a Lender or an Approved Fund or an assignment of the entire remaining amount of the assigning Lender’s Term Loans, the amount of the Term Loans of the assigning Lender subject to each such assignment (determined as of the date the Assignment and Acceptance with respect to such assignment is delivered to the Administrative Agent) shall not be less than $250,000, unless each of the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent otherwise consent; provided that (1) no such consent of the Borrowers shall be required if a Specified Event of Default has occurred and is continuing and (2) such amounts shall be aggregated in respect of each Lender and its Affiliates or Approved Funds (with simultaneous assignments to or by two or more Approved Funds being treated as one assignment for purposes of meeting the minimum assignment amount requirement), if any;

 

(ii)                                   the assignee or assigning Lender to each assignment shall execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent an Assignment and Acceptance via an electronic settlement system acceptable to the Administrative Agent (or, if previously agreed with the Administrative Agent, manually), and shall pay to the Administrative Agent a processing and recordation fee of $3,500 (which fee may be waived or reduced in the sole discretion of the Administrative Agent); provided that such processing and recordation fee shall not be payable in the case of assignments by any Arranger or any Affiliate of the Arrangers;

 

180



 

(iii)                                the Assignee, if it shall not be a Lender, shall deliver to the Administrative Agent an Administrative Questionnaire and any tax forms required to be delivered pursuant to Section 2.14; and

 

(iv)                               the assignor shall deliver to the Administrative Agent any Note issued to it with respect to the assigned Term Loan.

 

For the purposes of this Section 10.04, “ Approved Fund ” means any Person (other than a natural person) that is engaged in making, purchasing, holding or investing in bank loans and similar extensions of credit in the ordinary course and that is administered or managed by (a) a Lender, (b) an Affiliate of a Lender or (c) an entity or an Affiliate of an entity that administers or manages a Lender.

 

(c)                                   Subject to acceptance and recording thereof pursuant to paragraph (2)(e) of this Section 10.04, from and after the effective date specified in each Assignment and Acceptance, the Assignee thereunder shall be a party hereto and, to the extent of the interest assigned by such Assignment and Acceptance, have the rights and obligations of a Lender under this Agreement, and the assigning Lender thereunder shall, to the extent of the interest assigned by such Assignment and Acceptance, be released from its obligations under this Agreement (and, in the case of an Assignment and Acceptance covering all of the assigning Lender’s rights and obligations under this Agreement, such Lender shall cease to be a party hereto but shall continue to be entitled to the benefits of Sections 2.12, 2.13, 2.14 and 10.05 with respect to facts and circumstances occurring prior to the effective date of such Assignment and Acceptance).  Any assignment or transfer by a Lender of rights or obligations under this Agreement that does not comply with this Section 10.04 shall be treated for purposes of this Agreement as a sale by such Lender of a participation in such rights and obligations in accordance with paragraph (4) of this Section 10.04 to the extent such participation would be permitted by such Section 10.04(4).

 

(d)                                  The Administrative Agent, acting for this purpose as the Administrative Agent of the Borrowers, shall maintain at one of its offices a copy of each Assignment and Acceptance delivered to it and a register for the recordation of the names and addresses of the Lenders, and the principal amount (and stated interest with respect thereto) of the Term Loans owing to, each Lender pursuant to the terms hereof from time to time (the “ Register ”).  The entries in the Register shall be conclusive absent manifest error, and the Borrowers, the Administrative Agent and the Lenders shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Register pursuant to the terms hereof as a Lender hereunder for all purposes of this Agreement.  The Register shall be available for inspection by Holdings and any Lender (solely with respect to such Lender’s Term Loans) at any reasonable time and from time to time upon reasonable prior notice.

 

(e)                                   Upon its receipt of a duly completed Assignment and Acceptance executed by an assigning Lender and an Assignee, the Assignee’s completed Administrative Questionnaire (unless the Assignee shall already be a Lender hereunder), all

 

181



 

applicable tax forms, any Note outstanding with respect to the assigned Term Loan, the processing and recordation fee referred to in paragraph (2)(b)(ii) of this Section 10.04 and any written consent to such assignment required by paragraph (2) of this Section 10.04, the Administrative Agent promptly shall accept such Assignment and Acceptance and record the information contained therein in the Register.  No assignment, whether or not evidenced by a promissory note, shall be effective for purposes of this Agreement unless it has been recorded in the Register as provided in this paragraph (2)(e).

 

(3)                                  By executing and delivering an Assignment and Acceptance, the assigning Lender thereunder and the Assignee thereunder shall be deemed to confirm to and agree with each other and the other parties hereto as follows:

 

(a)                                  such assigning Lender warrants that it is the legal and beneficial owner of the interest being assigned thereby free and clear of any adverse claim;

 

(b)                                  except as set forth in clause (a) above, such assigning Lender makes no representation or warranty and assumes no responsibility with respect to any statements, warranties or representations made in or in connection with this Agreement, or the execution, legality, validity, enforceability, genuineness, sufficiency or value of this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any other instrument or document furnished pursuant hereto, or the financial condition of Holdings, any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary or the performance or observance by Holdings, any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiary of any of its obligations under this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any other instrument or document furnished pursuant hereto;

 

(c)                                   the Assignee represents and warrants that it is legally authorized to enter into such Assignment and Acceptance;

 

(d)                                  the Assignee confirms that it has received a copy of this Agreement, together with copies of the most recent Required Financial Statements delivered pursuant to Section 5.04, and such other documents and information as it has deemed appropriate to make its own credit analysis and decision to enter into such Assignment and Acceptance;

 

(e)                                   the Assignee will independently and without reliance upon the Administrative Agent or the Collateral Agent, such assigning Lender or any other Lender and based on such documents and information as it shall deem appropriate at the time, continue to make its own credit decisions in taking or not taking action under this Agreement;

 

(f)                                    the Assignee appoints and authorizes the Administrative Agent to take such action as agent on its behalf and to exercise such powers under this Agreement as are delegated to the Administrative Agent by the terms of this Agreement, together with such powers as are reasonably incidental thereto; and

 

182



 

(g)                                   the Assignee agrees that it will perform in accordance with their terms all the obligations which by the terms of this Agreement are required to be performed by it as a Lender.

 

(4)                                  (a) Any Lender may, without the consent of the Administrative Agent or, subject to Section 10.04(8), the Borrowers, sell participations to one or more banks or other entities (a “ Participant ”) in all or a portion of such Lender’s rights and obligations under this Agreement (including all or a portion of the Term Loans owing to it); provided that

 

(i)                                      such Lender’s obligations under this Agreement shall remain unchanged;

 

(ii)                                   such Lender shall remain solely responsible to the other parties hereto for the performance of such obligations; and

 

(iii)                                the Borrowers, the Administrative Agent and the other Lenders shall continue to deal solely and directly with such Lender in connection with such Lender’s rights and obligations under this Agreement.

 

(iv)                               Any agreement pursuant to which a Lender sells such a participation shall provide that such Lender shall retain the sole right to enforce this Agreement and the other Loan Documents and to approve any amendment, modification or waiver of any provision of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents; provided that (A) such agreement may provide that such Lender will not, without the consent of the Participant, agree to any amendment, modification or waiver that (1) requires the consent of each Lender directly affected thereby pursuant to Section 10.04(1)(a) or clauses (i), (ii), (iii), (iv), (v) or (vi) of the first proviso to Section 10.08(2) and (2) directly affects such Participant and (B) no other agreement with respect to amendment, modification or waiver may exist between such Lender and such Participant.  Subject to clause (4)(b) of this Section 10.04, each Borrower agrees that each Participant shall be entitled to the benefits of Sections 2.12, 2.13 and 2.14 to the same extent as if it were a Lender and had acquired its interest by assignment pursuant to paragraph (2) of this Section 10.04, provided that such Participant agrees to be subject to the provisions of Sections 2.16(2) as if it were an assignee pursuant to paragraph (2) of this Section 10.04.  Each Lender that sells a participation agrees, at such Borrower’s request and expense, to use reasonable efforts to cooperate with such Borrower to effectuate the provisions of Section 2.16(2) with respect to any Participant.  To the extent permitted by law, each Participant also shall be entitled to the benefits of Section 10.06 as though it were a Lender; provided that such Participant shall be subject to Section 2.15(3) as though it were a Lender.  Each Lender that sells a participation shall, acting solely for this purpose as a non-fiduciary agent of such Borrower, maintain a register on which it enters the name and address of each Participant and the principal amounts (and stated interest) of each Participant’s interest in the Term Loans or other obligations under the Loan Documents (the “ Participant

 

183



 

Register ”); provided that no Lender shall have any obligation to disclose all or any portion of the Participant Register (including the identity of any Participant or any information relating to a Participant’s interest in any commitments, loans, letters of credit or its other obligations under any Loan Document) to any Person except to the extent that such disclosure is necessary to establish that such commitment, loan, letter of credit or other obligation is in registered form under Section 5f.103-1(c) of the United States Treasury Regulations.  The entries in the Participant Register shall be conclusive absent manifest error, and such Lender shall treat each Person whose name is recorded in the Participant Register as the owner of such participation for all purposes of this Agreement notwithstanding any notice to the contrary.  For the avoidance of doubt, the Administrative Agent (in its capacity as Administrative Agent) shall have no responsibility for maintaining a Participant Register.

 

(b)                                  A Participant shall not be entitled to receive any greater payment under Section 2.12, 2.13 or 2.14 than the applicable Lender would have been entitled to receive with respect to the participation sold to such Participant, except to the extent such entitlement to receive a greater payment results from an adoption of or any change in any requirement of law or in the interpretation or application thereof or compliance by any Lender with any request or directive (whether or not having the force of law) from any central bank or other Governmental Authority made subsequent to the date hereof that occurs after the Participant acquired the applicable participation, or unless the sale of the participation to such Participant is made with such Borrower’s prior written consent.  A Participant shall not be entitled to the benefits of Section 2.14 to the extent such Participant fails to comply with Section 2.14(5) as though it were a Lender.

 

(5)                                  Any Lender may at any time pledge or assign a security interest in all or any portion of its rights under this Agreement to secure obligations of such Lender, including any pledge or assignment to secure obligations to a Federal Reserve Bank and in the case of any Lender that is an Approved Fund, any pledge or assignment to any holders of obligations owed, or securities issued, by such Lender, including to any trustee for, or any other representative of, such holders, and this Section 10.04 shall not apply to any such pledge or assignment of a security interest; provided that no such pledge or assignment of a security interest shall release a Lender from any of its obligations hereunder or substitute any such pledgee or Assignee for such Lender as a party hereto.

 

(6)                                  Each Borrower, upon receipt of written notice from the relevant Lender, agrees to issue Notes to any Lender requiring Notes to facilitate transactions of the type described in paragraph (5) of this Section 10.04.

 

(7)                                  If either Borrower wishes to replace the Term Loans with ones having different terms, it shall have the option, with the consent of the Administrative Agent (not to be unreasonably withheld or delayed) and subject to at least three Business Days’ advance notice to the Lenders, instead of prepaying the Term Loans to be replaced, to (a) require the Lenders to assign such Term Loans to the Administrative Agent or its designees and

 

184



 

(b) amend the terms thereof in accordance with Section 10.08 (with such replacement, if applicable, being deemed to have been made pursuant to Section 10.08(4)).  Pursuant to any such assignment, all Term Loans to be replaced shall be purchased at par (allocated among the Lenders in the same manner as would be required if such Term Loans were being optionally prepaid, and for the avoidance of doubt, subject to Section 2.21), accompanied by payment of any accrued interest and fees thereon and any amounts owing pursuant to Section 10.05(2).  By receiving such purchase price, the Lenders shall automatically be deemed to have assigned the Term Loans pursuant to the terms of the form of Assignment and Acceptance attached hereto as Exhibit A, and accordingly no other action by such Lenders shall be required in connection therewith.  The provisions of this paragraph (7) are intended to facilitate the maintenance of the perfection and priority of existing security interests in the Collateral during any such replacement.

 

(8)                                  (a)  No assignment or participation shall be made to any Person that was a Disqualified Institution to the extent the list thereof has been provided to all Lenders as of the date (the “ Trade Date ”) on which the assigning Lender entered into a binding agreement to sell and assign all or a portion of its rights and obligations under this Agreement to such Person (unless the Borrowers have consented to such assignment in writing in its sole and absolute discretion, in which case such Person will not be considered a Disqualified Institution for the purpose of such assignment or participation).  For the avoidance of doubt, with respect to any Assignee that becomes a Disqualified Institution after the applicable Trade Date, (x) such Assignee shall not retroactively be disqualified from becoming a Lender and (y) the execution by the applicable Borrower of an Assignment and Acceptance with respect to such Assignee will not by itself result in such Assignee no longer being considered a Disqualified Institution.  Any assignment in violation of this clause (8)(a) shall not be void, but the other provisions of this clause (8) shall apply.

 

(b)                                  If any assignment or participation is made to any Disqualified Institution without the Borrowers’ prior written consent in violation of clause (a) above, or if any Person becomes a Disqualified Institution after the applicable Trade Date, the Borrowers may, at their sole expense and effort, upon notice to the applicable Disqualified Institution and the Administrative Agent, (A) in the case of outstanding Term Loans held by Disqualified Institutions, purchase or prepay such Term Loan by paying the lowest of (x) the principal amount thereof, (y) the amount that such Disqualified Institution paid to acquire such Term Loans and (z) the market price of such Term Loans (as reasonably determined by Borrowers), in each case plus accrued interest, accrued fees and all other amounts (other than principal amounts) payable to it hereunder and/or (B) require such Disqualified Institution to assign, without recourse (in accordance with and subject to the restrictions contained in this Section 10.04), all of its interest, rights and obligations under this Agreement to one or more Assignees at the lowest of (x) the principal amount thereof, (y) the amount that such Disqualified Institution paid to acquire such interests, rights and obligations and (z) the market price of such Term Loans (as reasonably determined by the Borrowers), in each case plus accrued interest, accrued fees and all other amounts (other than principal amounts) payable to it hereunder.

 

185



 

(c)                                   Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, Disqualified Institutions (A) will not (x) have the right to receive information, reports or other materials provided to Lenders by Holdings or any other Loan Party, the Administrative Agent or any other Lender, (y) attend or participate in meetings attended by the Lenders and the Administrative Agent, or (z) access any electronic site established for the Lenders or confidential communications from counsel to or financial advisors of the Administrative Agent or the Lenders and (B) (x) for purposes of any consent to any amendment, waiver or modification of, or any action under, and for the purpose of any direction to the Administrative Agent or any Lender to undertake any action (or refrain from taking any action) under this Agreement or any other Loan Document, each Disqualified Institution will be deemed to have consented in the same proportion as the Lenders that are not Disqualified Institutions consented to such matter, and (y) for purposes of voting on any Plan of Reorganization, each Disqualified Institution party hereto hereby agrees (1) not to vote on such Plan of Reorganization, (2) if such Disqualified Institution does vote on such Plan of Reorganization notwithstanding the restriction in the foregoing clause (1), such vote will be deemed not to be in good faith and shall be “designated” pursuant to Section 1126(e) of the Bankruptcy Code (or any similar provision in any other Debtor Relief Laws), and such vote shall not be counted in determining whether the applicable class has accepted or rejected such Plan of Reorganization in accordance with Section 1126(c) of the Bankruptcy Code (or any similar provision in any other Debtor Relief Laws) and (3) not to contest any request by any party for a determination by the bankruptcy court (or other applicable court of competent jurisdiction) effectuating the foregoing clause (2).

 

(d)                                  The Administrative Agent shall have the right, and each Borrower hereby expressly authorizes the Administrative Agent, to provide the list of Disqualified Institutions to each Lender requesting the same (and each Borrower hereby agrees that any such requesting Lender may share the list of Disqualified Institutions with any potential assignee, transferee or participant); provided that the Lenders shall not be restricted from participating their obligations in all or a portion of such Lender’s rights and obligations under this Agreement (including all or a portion of the Term Loans owing to it) to Disqualified Institutions if the Administrative Agent has not posted the list of Disqualified Institutions to the Platform.

 

(e)                                   In case any transfer or transfer made under this Section in respect of the Initial Term Loan Facility is made by way of novation, the transferring Lender maintains all its rights and privileges arising under any Security Documents and any Guarantee securing the obligations of any French Loan Party under this Agreement for the benefit of the transferee, in accordance with Article 1334 of the French Civil Code.

 

(9)                                  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, no Affiliated Lender shall have any right to:

 

186



 

(a)                                  attend (including by telephone) any meeting or discussions (or portion thereof) among the Administrative Agent or any Lender to which representatives of Holdings or the Borrowers are not then present;

 

(b)                                  receive any information or material prepared by the Administrative Agent or any Lender or any communication by or among Administrative Agent and one or more Lenders, except to the extent such information or materials have been made available to Holdings or its representatives (and in any case, other than the right to receive notices of prepayments and other administrative notices in respect of its Term Loans required to be delivered to Lenders pursuant to this Agreement); or

 

(c)                                   make or bring (or participate in, other than as a passive participant in or recipient of its pro rata benefits of) any claim, in its capacity as a Lender, against Administrative Agent or any other Lender with respect to any duties or obligations or alleged duties or obligations of such Agent or any other such Lender under the Loan Documents in the absence, with respect to any such Person, of the gross negligence or willful misconduct by such Person and its Related Parties (as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction by final and non-appealable judgment).

 

(10)                           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, any Lender may assign all or any portion of its Term Loans hereunder to any Person who, after giving effect to such assignment, would be an Affiliated Lender; provided that:

 

(a)                                  such assignment shall be made pursuant to (i) an open market purchase (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any purchase made during the initial syndication of the Term Loans) on a non- pro rata basis or (ii) a Dutch Auction open to all Lenders of the applicable Class on a pro rata basis;

 

(b)                                  in the case of an assignment to an Affiliated Lender, the assigning Lender and such Affiliated Lender purchasing such Lender’s Term Loans shall execute and deliver to the Administrative Agent an assignment agreement substantially in the form of Exhibit E (an “ Affiliate Assignment and Acceptance ”) in lieu of an Assignment and Acceptance;

 

(c)                                   at the time of such assignment and after giving effect to such assignment, Affiliated Lenders shall not, in the aggregate, hold Term Loans (and participating interests in Term Loans) with an aggregate principal amount in excess of 25.0% of the principal amount of all Term Loans (including, for the avoidance of doubt, any Incremental Term Loans, Other Term Loans or Extended Term Loans, if any) then outstanding;

 

(d)                                  each Affiliated Lender shall at each of the time of its execution of a written trade confirmation in respect of, and at the time of consummation of, such assignment, either (i) make a No MNPI Representation or (ii) if it is not able to make the No MNPI Representation, inform the assignor and the assignor will deliver to such

 

187


 

Affiliated Lender customary written assurance that it is a sophisticated investors and is willing to proceed with the assignment;

 

(e)                                   no proceeds from revolving loans under the ABL Credit Agreement shall be used to fund any such purchases; and

 

(f)                                    if such Affiliated Lender subsequently assigns the Term Loans acquired by it in accordance with this Section 10.04(10), such Affiliated Lender shall at the time of such assignment of such Term Loans held by it, either (i) affirm the No MNPI Representation or (ii) if it is not able to affirm the No MNPI Representation, inform the assignee and the assignee will deliver to such Affiliated Lender customary written assurance that it is a sophisticated investors and is willing to proceed with the assignment.

 

(11)                           Specific provisions relating to Spain

 

(a)                                  The Spanish Loan Parties and the other Secured Parties irrevocably agree that, in the event of any transfer and/or assignment pursuant to this agreement the Liens created by, together with all rights and remedies arising under, the Spanish Security Documents entered into by each Spanish Loan Party shall be maintained in full force and effect.

 

(b)                                  For the purposes of article 1,528 of the Spanish Civil Code, the parties agree that, upon the Assignee becoming a Secured Party pursuant to this Agreement, any Spanish Security Documents shall be deemed to have been automatically assigned to the Assignee.

 

(c)                                   At the request and cost of the Assignee, the Assignee, the Secured Party and the Agents (if applicable) shall promptly notarize in Spain the duly completed assignment agreement in a Spanish Public Document and all the powers of attorney granted to the Agents shall be duly ratified.  Any tax and cost (including, but not limited to, notarial and registry costs) triggered as result of such will be borne by the Assignee.

 

(12)                           To the extent not previously disclosed to the Administrative Agent, Holdings shall, upon reasonable request of the Administrative Agent (but not more frequently than once per calendar quarter), report to the Administrative Agent the amount and Class of Term Loans held by Affiliated Lenders and the identity of such holders.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, any Affiliated Lender shall be permitted to contribute any Term Loan so assigned to such Affiliated Lender pursuant to this Section 10.04(12) to Holdings or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries for purposes of cancellation, which contribution may be made, subject to Section 6.07, in exchange for Equity Interests (other than Disqualified Stock) of any Parent Entity or Indebtedness of Holdings to the extent such Indebtedness is permitted to be incurred pursuant to Section 6.01 at such time; provided that any Term Loans so contributed shall be automatically and permanently canceled upon the effectiveness of such contribution and will thereafter no longer be outstanding for any purpose hereunder.

 

188



 

(13)                           Notwithstanding anything in Section 10.04 or the definition of “Required Lenders” to the contrary, for purposes of determining whether the Required Lenders, all affected Lenders or all Lenders have:

 

(a)                                  consented (or not consented) to any amendment, modification, waiver, consent or other action with respect to any of the terms of any Loan Document or any departure by any Loan Party therefrom;

 

(b)                                  otherwise acted on any matter related to any Loan Document; or

 

(c)                                   directed or required the Administrative Agent or any Lender to undertake any action (or refrain from taking any action) with respect to or under any Loan Document (collectively, “ Required Lender Consent Items ”) an Affiliated Lender shall be deemed to have voted its interest as a Lender in the same proportion as the allocation of voting with respect to such matter by Lenders who are not Affiliated Lenders, unless such Required Lender Consent Item requires the consent of each Lender or each affected Lender or the result of such Required Lender Consent Item would reasonably be expected to deprive such Affiliated Lenders of its pro rata share (compared to Lenders which are not Affiliated Lenders) of any payments to which such Affiliated Lender is entitled under the Loan Documents without such Affiliated Lender providing its consent or such Affiliated Lender is otherwise adversely affected thereby compared to Term Loan Lenders which are not Affiliated Lender (in which case for purposes of such vote such Affiliated Lender shall have the same voting rights as other Term Loan Lenders which are not Affiliated Lenders).

 

(14)                           Additionally, the Loan Parties and each Affiliated Lender hereby agree that, and each Affiliate Assignment and Acceptance by an Affiliated Lender shall provide a confirmation that, if a case under Title 11 of the United States Code is commenced against any Loan Party, such Loan Party shall seek (and each Affiliated Lender shall consent) to provide that (a) the Administrative Agent may vote on behalf of such Affiliated Lender (in its capacity as a Lender) with respect to any plan of reorganization of such Loan Party and (b) the vote of any Affiliated Lender (in its capacity as a Lender) with respect to any plan of reorganization of such Loan Party shall not be counted except that such Affiliated Lender’s vote (in its capacity as a Lender) may be counted to the extent any such plan of reorganization proposes to treat the Obligations or claims held by such Affiliated Lender in a manner that is less favorable to such Affiliated Lender than the proposed treatment of the Term Loans or claims held by Lenders that are not Affiliates of the Borrower.

 

(15)                           Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, any Lender may assign all or a portion of its Term Loans to any Purchasing Borrower Party; provided that:

 

(a)                                  the assigning Lender and the Purchasing Borrower Party purchasing such Lender’s Term Loans, as applicable, shall execute and deliver to the

 

189



 

Administrative Agent an Affiliate Assignment and Acceptance in lieu of an Assignment and Acceptance;

 

(b)                                  such assignment shall be made pursuant to (i) an open market purchase on a non- pro rata basis or (ii) a Dutch Auction open to all Lenders of the applicable Class on a pro rata basis;

 

(c)                                   any Term Loans assigned to any Purchasing Borrower Party shall be automatically and permanently cancelled upon the effectiveness of such assignment and will thereafter no longer be outstanding for any purpose hereunder;

 

(d)                                  at the time of and immediately after giving effect to any such purchase, no Default or Event of Default shall exist;

 

(e)                                   the applicable Purchasing Borrower Party shall at each of the time of its execution of a written trade confirmation in respect of, and at the time of consummation of, such assignment, either (i) make a No MNPI Representation or (ii) if it is not able to make the No MNPI Representation, inform the assignor and the assignor will deliver to such Affiliated Lender customary written assurance that it is a sophisticated investors and is willing to proceed with the assignment;

 

(f)                                    the aggregate outstanding principal amount of the Term Loans of the applicable Class shall be deemed reduced by the full par value of the aggregate principal amount of the Term Loans purchased pursuant to this Section 10.04(15) and each principal repayment installment with respect to the Term Loans of such Class shall be reduced pro rata by the aggregate principal amount of Term Loans purchased; and

 

(g)                                   no proceeds from revolving loans under the ABL Credit Agreement shall be used to fund any such purchases.

 

SECTION 10.05.     Expenses; Indemnity .

 

(1)                                  If the Transactions are consummated and the Closing Date occurs, the Borrowers agree to pay all reasonable, documented and invoiced out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the Administrative Agent, the Arrangers, Syndication Agent and Syndication Agent in connection with the preparation of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents, or by the Administrative Agent (and, in the case of enforcement of this Agreement, each Lender) in connection with the syndication of the Term Facility, preparation, execution and delivery, amendment, modification, waiver or enforcement of this Agreement (including expenses incurred in connection with due diligence (including third party expenses) and initial and ongoing Collateral examination to the extent incurred with the reasonable prior approval of the Borrowers or provided for in this Agreement) or in connection with the administration of this Agreement and any amendments, modifications or waivers of the provisions hereof or thereof, including the reasonable, documented and invoiced fees, charges and disbursements of a single counsel for the

 

190



 

Administrative Agent, the Arrangers, Syndication Agent and Syndication Agent, one firm of local counsel in each appropriate jurisdiction (which may include a single special counsel acting in multiple jurisdictions) and, in the case of any actual or perceived conflict of interest, where the indemnified person affected by such conflict informs the Borrowers of such conflict, one additional firm of counsel for the Administrative Agent, the Arrangers, Syndication Agent and Syndication Agent and, in the case of enforcement of this Agreement, the Lenders (in the aggregate). In relation to any Spanish Loan Party and any Loan Documents or Spanish Security Documents they incorporate or sign subject to the laws of Spain, the Borrowers and/or the corresponding Spanish Loan Party shall also pay the applicable pre-agreed notary public fees and registry fees whenever due.  For the sake of clarity, notwithstanding the foregoing, as set out in Section 10.04(11), any taxes or costs (including, but not limited to, notarial or registry fees) arising from any transfer or assignment from the Lenders or Secured Parties shall be borne by the relevant Lender or Secured Party but not by the Loan Parties.

 

(2)                                  The Borrowers agree to indemnify the Administrative Agent, each Arranger, each Syndication Agent, each Documentation Agent, each Lender, each of their respective Affiliates and each of their respective directors, officers, employees, agents, advisors, controlling Persons, equityholders, partners, members and other representatives and each of their respective successors and permitted assigns (each such Person being called an “ Indemnitee ”) against, and to hold each Indemnitee harmless from, any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and reasonable, documented and invoiced out-of-pocket fees and expenses (limited to reasonable and documented legal fees of a single firm of counsel for all Indemnitees, taken as a whole, and, if necessary, one firm of counsel in each appropriate jurisdiction (which may include a single special counsel acting in multiple jurisdictions) for all Indemnitees taken as a whole (and, in the case of an actual or perceived conflict of interest, where the Indemnitee affected by such conflict informs the Borrowers of such conflict and thereafter retains its own counsel, of an additional counsel for each group of affected Indemnitees similarly situated, taken as a whole)), incurred by or asserted against any Indemnitee arising out of, in any way connected with, or as a result of:

 

(a)                                  the execution or delivery of this Agreement or any other Loan Document, the performance by the parties hereto and thereto of their respective obligations thereunder or the consummation of the Transactions and the other transactions contemplated hereby;

 

(b)                                  the use of the proceeds of the Term Loans; or

 

(c)                                   any claim, litigation, investigation or proceeding relating to the Transactions or any of the foregoing, whether or not any Indemnitee is a party thereto and regardless of whether such matter is initiated by Holdings, any Borrower or any of their Restricted Subsidiaries or Affiliates or creditors or any other Person;

 

provided that no Indemnitee will be indemnified for any loss, claim, damage, liability, cost or expense to the extent it (i) has been determined by a final, non-appealable judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted from (x) the gross

 

191



 

negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct of such Indemnitee or any of its Related Parties or (B) a material breach of the obligations of such Indemnitee or Related Parties under the Loan Documents or (ii) relates to any proceeding between or among Indemnitees other than (A) claims against Administrative Agent, Arrangers, Syndication Agent or Syndication Agent or their respective Affiliates, in each case, in their capacity or in fulfilling their role as the agent or arranger, syndication agent or documentation agent or any other similar role under the Term Facility (excluding their role as a Lender) to the extent such Persons are otherwise entitled to receive indemnification under this paragraph (2) or (B) claims arising out of any act or omission on the part of Holdings, any Borrower or any of their Restricted Subsidiaries.

 

(3)                                  Subject to and without limiting the generality of the foregoing sentence, the Borrowers agree to indemnify each Indemnitee against, and hold each Indemnitee harmless from, any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities and related expenses, including reasonable, documented and invoiced fees, charges and disbursements of one firm of counsel for all Indemnitees, taken as a whole, and, if necessary, one firm of counsel in each appropriate jurisdiction (which may include a single special counsel in multiple jurisdictions) for all Indemnitees taken as a whole (and, in the case of an actual or perceived conflict of interest, an additional counsel for all Indemnitees taken as a whole) and reasonable, documented and invoiced consultant fees, in each case, incurred by or asserted against any Indemnitee arising out of, in any way connected with, or as a result of any claim related in any way to Environmental Laws and Holdings, any Borrower or any of the Restricted Subsidiaries, or any actual or alleged presence, Release or threatened Release of Hazardous Materials at, under, on or from any property for which Holdings, any Borrower or any Restricted Subsidiaries would reasonably be expected to be liable under Environmental Laws, regardless of whether such matter is initiated by Holdings, any Borrower or any of their Restricted Subsidiaries or Affiliates or creditors or any other Person; provided that such indemnity shall not, as to any Indemnitee, be available to the extent that such losses, claims, damages, liabilities or related expenses are determined by a final, non-appealable judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction to have resulted from the gross negligence, bad faith or willful misconduct of such Indemnitee or any of its Related Parties.

 

(4)                                  Any indemnification or payments required by the Loan Parties under this Section 10.05 shall not apply with respect to (a) Taxes other than any Taxes that represent losses, claims, damages, etc. arising from any non-Tax claim or (b) Taxes that are duplicative of any indemnification or payments required by the Loan Parties under Section 2.14.

 

(5)                                  To the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, no Indemnitee, nor any Loan Party shall assert, and hereby waives, any claim against the Loan Parties or any Indemnitee, on any theory of liability, for special, indirect, consequential or punitive damages (as opposed to direct or actual damages) arising out of, in connection with, or as a result of, this Agreement, any other Loan Document or any agreement or instrument contemplated hereby, the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby, any Term Loan or the use of the proceeds thereof; provided that nothing contained in this sentence shall limit the indemnity and reimbursement obligations set forth in clauses (1) through (3) of this Section 10.05.  No Indemnitee shall be liable for any damages arising from the use by

 

192



 

unintended recipients of any information or other materials distributed by it through telecommunications, electronic or other information transmission systems in connection with this Agreement or the other Loan Documents or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.

 

(6)                                  The agreements in this Section 10.05 shall survive the resignation of the Administrative Agent, the replacement of any Lender, the termination of the Commitments and the repayment, satisfaction or discharge of all the other Obligations and the termination of this Agreement.  All amounts due under this Section 10.05 shall be payable on written demand therefor accompanied by reasonable documentation with respect to any reimbursement, indemnification or other amount requested.

 

SECTION 10.06.     Right of Set-off .  If an Event of Default shall have occurred and be continuing, each Lender is hereby authorized at any time and from time to time, to the fullest extent permitted by law, to set off and apply any and all deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final) at any time held and other Indebtedness at any time owing by such Lender to or for the credit or the account of Holdings or any Subsidiary Loan Party against any of and all the Obligations of Holdings or any Subsidiary Loan Party now or hereafter existing under this Agreement or any other Loan Document held by such Lender, irrespective of whether or not such Lender shall have made any demand under this Agreement or such other Loan Document and although the Obligations may be unmatured.  The rights of each Lender under this Section 10.06 are in addition to other rights and remedies (including other rights of set-off) that such Lender may have and may be exercised only at the direction of the Administrative Agent or the Required Lenders.

 

SECTION 10.07.     Applicable Law .  THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS (OTHER THAN AS EXPRESSLY SET FORTH IN THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS, INCLUDING THOSE FOREIGN SECURITY AND PLEDGE AGREEMENTS LISTED ON SCHEDULE 1.01(3)) AND ANY CLAIM, CONTROVERSY, DISPUTE OR CAUSE OF ACTION (WHETHER IN CONTRACT OR TORT OR OTHERWISE) BASED UPON, ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING TO THIS AGREEMENT, THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS AND THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY AND THEREBY SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH AND GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK (EXCEPT FOR CONFLICTS OF LAW PRINCIPLES THAT WOULD RESULT IN THE APPLICATION OF THE LAWS OF ANOTHER JURISDICTION).

 

SECTION 10.08.     Waivers; Amendment .

 

(1)                                  No failure or delay of the Administrative Agent or any Lender in exercising any right or power hereunder or under any Loan Document shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise of any such right or power, or any abandonment or discontinuance of steps to enforce such a right or power, preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right or power.  The rights and remedies of each Agent and the Lenders hereunder and under the other Loan Documents are cumulative and are not exclusive of any rights or remedies that they would otherwise have.  No waiver of any provision of this Agreement or any other Loan Document or

 

193



 

consent to any departure by Holdings, any Borrower or any other Loan Party therefrom shall in any event be effective unless the same shall be permitted by paragraph (2) of this Section 10.08, and then such waiver or consent shall be effective only in the specific instance and for the purpose for which given.  No notice or demand on Holdings, any Borrower or any other Loan Party in any case shall entitle such Person to any other or further notice or demand in similar or other circumstances.

 

(2)                                  Neither this Agreement nor any other Loan Document nor any provision hereof or thereof may be waived, amended or modified except

 

(a)                                  as provided in Sections 2.18, 2.19 and 2.20;

 

(b)                                  in the case of the Fee Letter, pursuant to an agreement or agreements in writing entered into by each party thereto;

 

(c)                                   in the case of this Agreement, pursuant to an agreement or agreements in writing entered into by Holdings, the Borrowers and the Required Lenders, a copy of which shall be promptly provided to the Administrative Agent ( provided that any failure to deliver such copy shall not invalidate such waiver, amendment or modification); and

 

(d)                                  in the case of any other Loan Document, pursuant to an agreement or agreements in writing entered into by each party thereto and the Administrative Agent and consented to by the Required Lenders;

 

provided , however , that except as provided in Section 2.18, 2.19 and 2.20, no such agreement shall:

 

(i)                                      decrease, forgive, waive or excuse the principal amount of, or any interest (other than default interest) on, or extend the final maturity of, or decrease the rate of interest on, any Term Loan beyond the Maturity Date, without the prior written consent of each Lender directly affected thereby (it being acknowledged and agreed that any amendments to or waivers of conditions precedent, Defaults or Events of Default or mandatory prepayments shall not constitute a decrease, forgiveness, waiver or excuse of a principal payment under this clause (i));

 

(ii)                                   increase or extend the Commitment of any Lender or decrease, forgive, waive or excuse the fees of any Lender, Arranger or Agent without the prior written consent of such Lender, Arranger or Agent (it being understood that waivers or modifications of conditions precedent, mandatory prepayments, covenants, Defaults or Events of Default shall not constitute an increase of the Commitments of any Lender or a waiver or excuse of any fees);

 

(iii)                                extend or waive any Term Loan Installment Date or reduce the amount due on any Term Loan Installment Date or extend any date on which

 

194



 

payment of principal or interest (other than default interest) on any Term Loan or any fee is due (it being acknowledged and agreed that any amendments or waivers of conditions precedent, Defaults or Events of Default or mandatory prepayments shall not constitute an extension of a date on which a payment is due for purposes of this clause (iii)), without the prior written consent of each Lender adversely affected thereby;

 

(iv)                               amend the provisions of Section 2.15(2) or (3) of this Agreement, [Section [  ] of the Intercreditor Agreement] or any analogous provision of any other Loan Document, in a manner that would by its terms alter the pro rata sharing of payments required thereby, without the prior written consent of each Lender adversely affected thereby;

 

(v)                                  amend or modify the provisions of this Section 10.08 or the definition of the term “Required Lenders” or any other provision hereof specifying the number or percentage of Lenders required to waive, amend or modify any rights hereunder or make any determination or grant any consent hereunder, without the prior written consent of each Lender (it being understood that, with the consent of the Required Lenders, additional extensions of credit pursuant to this Agreement may be included in the determination of the Required Lenders on substantially the same basis as the Term Loans are included on the Closing Date); or

 

(vi)                               release all or substantially all of the Collateral, or release all or substantially all of the value of the Guarantee of the Obligations, without the prior written consent of each Lender;

 

provided that no such agreement shall amend, modify or otherwise affect the rights or duties of the Administrative Agent hereunder without the prior written consent of the Administrative Agent acting as such at the effective date of such agreement, as applicable.  Each Lender shall be bound by any waiver, amendment or modification authorized by this Section 10.08 and any consent by any Lender pursuant to this Section 10.08 shall bind any assignee of such Lender.

 

(3)                                  Without the consent of the Administrative Agent or any Lender, the Loan Parties and the Administrative Agent may (in their respective sole discretion, or shall, to the extent required by any Loan Document) enter into any amendment, modification or waiver of any Loan Document, or enter into any new agreement or instrument, to effect the granting, perfection, protection, expansion or enhancement of any security interest in any Collateral or additional property to become Collateral for the benefit of the Secured Parties, or as required by local law to give effect to, or protect any security interest for the benefit of the Secured Parties, in any property or so that the security interests therein comply with applicable law.

 

(4)                                  This Agreement may be amended (or amended and restated) with the written consent of the Required Lenders, the Administrative Agent, Holdings and the Borrowers (i) to add one or more additional credit facilities to this Agreement and to permit the extensions of credit from time to time outstanding thereunder and the accrued interest and fees in

 

195



 

respect thereof to share ratably in the benefits of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents with the Term Loans and the accrued interest and fees in respect thereof and (ii) to include appropriately the Lenders holding such credit facilities in any determination of the Required Lenders.

 

(5)                                  Notwithstanding anything in this Agreement or any other Loan Document to the contrary, the Borrowers may enter into Incremental Facility Amendments in accordance with Section 2.18, Refinancing Amendments in accordance with Section 2.19, Extension Amendments in accordance with Section 2.20 and Refinancing Amendments, and such Incremental Facility Amendments, Extension Amendments and Refinancing Amendments shall be effective to amend the terms of this Agreement and the other applicable Loan Documents, in each case, without any further action or consent of any other party to any Loan Document.

 

(6)                                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, any amendment or waiver that by its terms affects the rights or duties of Lenders holding Term Loans or Commitments of a particular Class (but not the rights or duties of Lenders holdings Term Loans or Commitments of any other Class) will require only the requisite percentage in interest of the affected Class of Lenders that would be required to consent thereto if such Class of Lenders were the only Class of Lenders.

 

(7)                                  [Reserved].

 

(8)                                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, technical and conforming modifications to the Loan Documents may be made with the consent of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Administrative Agent (without the consent of any other Person) to the extent necessary to integrate any Incremental Facilities on substantially the same basis as the Term Loans, as applicable.

 

(9)                                  Notwithstanding the foregoing, no MIRE Event may be closed until the date that is (a) if there are no Mortgaged Properties in a Flood Zone, ten (10) Business Days or (b) if there are any Mortgaged Properties in a Flood Zone, thirty (30) days (in each case, the “Notice Period”), after the Administrative Agent has delivered to the Lenders the following documents in respect of such real property: (i) a completed Flood Certificate from a third party vendor; (ii) if such real property is located in a “special flood hazard area”, (A) a notification to the applicable Loan Parties of that fact and (if applicable) notification to the applicable Loan Parties that flood insurance coverage is not available and (B) evidence of the receipt by the applicable Loan Parties of such notice; and (iii) if required by Flood Laws, evidence of required flood insurance; provided that any such MIRE Event may be closed prior to the Notice Period if the Administrative Agent shall have received confirmation from each applicable Lender that such Lender has completed any necessary flood insurance due diligence to its reasonable satisfaction.

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Administrative Agent, with the consent of the Borrower, may amend, modify or supplement any Loan Document without the consent of any Lender or the Required Lenders in order to correct, amend or cure any ambiguity, inconsistency or defect or correct any typographical error or other manifest error in any

 

196



 

Loan Document, and such amendment, modification or supplement shall become effective without any further action or consent of any other party to any Loan Document if the same is not objected to in writing by the Required Lenders within five Business Days following receipt of notice thereof.  Furthermore, notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein, with the consent of the Administrative Agent at the request of the Borrowers (without the need to obtain any consent of any Lender), (i) any Loan Document may be amended to add terms that are favorable to the Lenders (as reasonably determined by the Administrative Agent) and (ii) this Agreement (including the amount of amortization due and payable with respect to any Class of Term Loans) may be amended to the extent necessary to create a fungible Class of Term Loans.

 

SECTION 10.09.     Interest Rate Limitation .  Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, if at any time the applicable interest rate, together with all fees and charges that are treated as interest under applicable law (collectively, the “ Charges ”), as provided for herein or in any other document executed in connection herewith, or otherwise contracted for, charged, received, taken or reserved by any Lender, shall exceed the maximum lawful rate (the “ Maximum Rate ”) that may be contracted for, charged, taken, received or reserved by such Lender in accordance with applicable law, the rate of interest payable hereunder, together with all Charges payable to such Lender, shall be limited to the Maximum Rate; provided that such excess amount shall be paid to such Lender on subsequent payment dates to the extent not exceeding the legal limitation.  In no event will the total interest received by any Lender exceed the amount which it could lawfully have received and any such excess amount received by any Lender will be applied to reduce the principal balance of the Term Loans or to other amounts (other than interest) payable hereunder to such Lender, and if no such principal or other amounts are then outstanding, such excess or part thereof remaining will be paid to the applicable Borrower.

 

SECTION 10.10.     Entire Agreement .  This Agreement, the other Loan Documents and the agreements regarding certain Fees referred to herein constitute the entire contract between the parties relative to the subject matter hereof.  Any previous agreement among or representations from the parties or their Affiliates with respect to the subject matter hereof is superseded by this Agreement and the other Loan Documents.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Fee Letter shall survive the execution and delivery of this Agreement and remain in full force and effect.  Nothing in this Agreement or in the other Loan Documents, expressed or implied, is intended to confer upon any party other than the parties hereto and thereto any rights, remedies, obligations or liabilities under or by reason of this Agreement or the other Loan Documents.

 

SECTION 10.11.     WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL .  EACH PARTY HERETO HEREBY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY RIGHT IT MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN RESPECT OF ANY LITIGATION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF, UNDER OR IN CONNECTION WITH THIS AGREEMENT OR ANY OF THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS.  EACH PARTY HERETO (A) CERTIFIES THAT NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE FOREGOING WAIVER AND (B) ACKNOWLEDGES THAT IT AND THE OTHER

 

197


 

PARTIES HERETO HAVE BEEN INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT AND THE OTHER LOAN DOCUMENTS, AS APPLICABLE, BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 10.11.

 

SECTION 10.12.    Severability .  In the event any one or more of the provisions contained in this Agreement or in any other Loan Document should be held invalid, illegal or unenforceable in any respect, the validity, legality and enforceability of the remaining provisions contained herein and therein shall not in any way be affected or impaired thereby.  The parties shall endeavor in good faith negotiations to replace the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions with valid provisions the economic effect of which comes as close as possible to that of the invalid, illegal or unenforceable provisions.

 

SECTION 10.13.    Counterparts .  This Agreement may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall constitute an original but all of which, when taken together, shall constitute but one contract, and shall become effective as provided in Section 10.03(1).  Delivery of an executed counterpart to this Agreement by facsimile or other electronic transmission (e.g., “ PDF ” or “ TIFF ”) shall be as effective as delivery of a manually signed original.

 

SECTION 10.14.    Headings .  Article and Section headings and the Table of Contents used herein are for convenience of reference only, are not part of this Agreement and are not to affect the construction of, or to be taken into consideration in interpreting, this Agreement.

 

SECTION 10.15.    Jurisdiction; Consent to Service of Process .

 

(1)                                 Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally submits, for itself and its property, to the exclusive jurisdiction of any New York State court or federal court of the United States of America sitting in New York County, and any appellate court from any thereof (collectively, “ New York Courts ”), in any action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the other Loan Documents (other than with respect to actions in respect of rights under any Security Document governed by laws other than the laws of the State of New York or with respect to any Collateral subject thereto), or for recognition or enforcement of any judgment, and each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally agrees that all claims in respect of any such action or proceeding shall be heard and determined in such New York State court or, to the extent permitted by law, in such federal court.  Each of the parties hereto agrees that a final judgment in any such action or proceeding shall be conclusive and may be enforced in other jurisdictions by suit on the judgment or in any other manner provided by law, and the parties hereto agree that the Agents and Lenders retain the right to serve process in any other manner permitted by law and to bring proceedings against any Loan Party in the courts of any other jurisdiction in connection with the exercise of any rights under any Security Documents or the enforcement of any judgment.  Each of the Loan Parties agrees that (a) it will not bring any such action or proceeding in any court other than New York Courts (it being acknowledged and agreed by the parties hereto that any other forum would be inconvenient and inappropriate in view of the fact that more of the Lenders who would be affected by any such action or proceeding have contacts with the

 

198



 

State of New York than any other jurisdiction), and (b) in any such action or proceeding brought against any Loan Party in any other court, it will not assert any cross-claim, counterclaim or setoff, or seek any other affirmative relief, except to the extent that the failure to assert the same will preclude such Loan Party from asserting or seeking the same in the New York Courts.

 

(2)                                 Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably and unconditionally waives, to the fullest extent it may legally and effectively do so, any objection which it may now or hereafter have to the laying of venue of any suit, action or proceeding arising out of or relating to this Agreement or the other Loan Documents in any New York State or federal court.  Each of the parties hereto hereby irrevocably waives, to the fullest extent permitted by law, the defense of an inconvenient forum to the maintenance of such action or proceeding in any such court. Each of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries hereby irrevocably designates, appoints and empowers the US Borrower (including any replacement process agent reasonably acceptable to the Administrative Agent, the “ Process Agent ”) (and the US Borrower hereby accepts and agrees to serve as Process Agent), in the case of any suit, action or proceeding brought in the United States of America as its designee, appointee and agent to receive, accept and acknowledge for and on its behalf, and in respect of its property, service of any and all legal process, summons, notices and documents that may be served in any action or proceeding arising out of or in connection with this Agreement or any other Loan Document.  Such service may be made by mailing (by registered or certified mail, postage prepaid) or delivering a copy of such process to such person in care of the Process Agent at the Process Agent’s address, and each of Holdings, the Borrowers and the Restricted Subsidiaries hereby irrevocably authorizes and directs the Process Agent to accept such service on its behalf.  Nothing in this Agreement will affect the right of any party to this Agreement to serve process in any other manner permitted by law.

 

SECTION 10.16.    Confidentiality .  Each of the Lenders and each of the Agents agrees (and agrees to cause each of its Affiliates) to use all information provided to it by or on behalf of Holdings or the Restricted Subsidiaries under the Loan Documents or otherwise in connection with the Transactions solely for the purposes of the transactions contemplated by this Agreement and the other Loan Documents and shall not publish, disclose or otherwise divulge such information (other than information that

 

(1)                                 has become generally available to the public other than as a result of a disclosure by such party;

 

(2)                                 has been independently developed by such Lender or the Administrative Agent without violating this Section 10.16; or

 

(3)                                 was available to such Lender or the Administrative Agent from a third party having, to such Person’s knowledge, no obligations of confidentiality to Holdings or any other Loan Party);

 

(4)                                 and shall not reveal the same other than to its directors, trustees, officers, employees and advisors with a need to know or to any Person that approves or administers the Term

 

199



 

Loans on behalf of such Lender or any numbering, administration or settlement service providers (so long as each such Person shall have been instructed to keep the same confidential in accordance with this Section 10.16), except:

 

(a)                                 to the extent necessary to comply with law or any legal process or the requirements of any Governmental Authority, the National Association of Insurance Commissioners or of any securities exchange on which securities of the disclosing party or any Affiliate of the disclosing party are listed or traded, in which case (except with respect to any audit or examination conducted by any bank accountant or any governmental or regulatory authority exercising examination or regulatory authority) such Person agrees, to the extent practicable and not prohibited by applicable law, rule or regulation, to inform Holdings promptly thereof prior to disclosure;

 

(b)                                 as part of normal reporting or review procedures to, or examinations by, Governmental Authorities or any bank accountants or any governmental or regulatory authority exercising examination or regulatory authority, in which case (except with respect to any audit or examination conducted by any bank accountant or any governmental or regulatory authority exercising examination or regulatory authority) such Person agrees, to the extent practicable and not prohibited by applicable law, rule or regulation, to inform Holdings promptly thereof prior to disclosure;

 

(c)                                  to its parent companies, Affiliates or auditors (so long as each such Person shall have been instructed to keep the same confidential in accordance with this Section 10.16);

 

(d)                                 in order to enforce its rights under any Loan Document in a legal proceeding;

 

(e)                                  to any pledgee or assignee under Section 10.04(5) or any other prospective or actual Assignee of, or prospective or actual Participant in, any of its rights under this Agreement (so long as such Person shall have been instructed to keep the same confidential in accordance with this Section 10.16);

 

(f)                                   to ratings agencies or the CUSIP Service Bureau on a confidential basis; and

 

(g)                                  to any direct or indirect contractual counterparty in Hedge Agreements or such contractual counterparty’s professional advisor (so long as such contractual counterparty or professional advisor to such contractual counterparty agrees to be bound by the provisions of this Section 10.16).

 

Notwithstanding the foregoing, no such information shall be disclosed to a Disqualified Institution that constitutes a Disqualified Institution at the time of such disclosure without Holdings’ prior written consent.

 

SECTION 10.17.    [Reserved]

 

200



 

SECTION 10.18.    Release of Liens and Guarantees .  In the event that any Loan Party conveys, sells, leases, assigns, transfers or otherwise disposes of all or any portion of any of the Equity Interests or assets of any Loan Party (other than Equity Interests of the Borrowers) to a Person that is not (and is not required to become) a Loan Party in a transaction not prohibited by the Loan Documents or any Loan Party becomes an Excluded Subsidiary or ceases to be a Restricted Subsidiary as a result of a transaction permitted hereunder, at the request of Holdings, any Liens created by any Loan Document in respect of such Equity Interests or assets shall, to the extent permitted under any applicable law, be automatically be released and the Administrative Agent shall promptly (and the Lenders hereby authorize the Administrative Agent to) take such action and execute any such documents as may be reasonably requested by Holdings or the Borrowers and at the Borrowers’ expense in connection with such release of any Liens created by any Loan Document in respect of such Equity Interests or assets, and, in the case of a disposition of the Equity Interests of any Subsidiary Loan Party (other than the Borrowers) in a transaction permitted by the Loan Documents (including through merger, consolidation, amalgamation or otherwise) and as a result of which such Subsidiary Loan Party would cease to be a Restricted Subsidiary, such Subsidiary Loan Party’s obligations under the applicable Security Documents shall, to the extent permitted under any applicable law, be automatically terminated and the Administrative Agent shall promptly (and the Lenders hereby authorize the Administrative Agent to) and at the Borrowers’ expense take such action and execute any such documents as may be reasonably requested by Holdings or the Borrowers to terminate such Subsidiary Loan Party’s obligations under the applicable Security Documents.  In addition, the Administrative Agent agrees to take such actions as are reasonably requested by Holdings or the Borrowers and at the Borrowers’ expense to terminate the Liens and security interests created by the Loan Documents when all the Obligations (other than Obligations in respect of (i) Specified Hedge Agreements and (ii) contingent indemnification and reimbursement obligations that are not yet due and payable and for which no claim has been asserted) are paid in full and the Commitments are terminated.

 

SECTION 10.19.    USA PATRIOT Act Notice .  Each Lender that is subject to the USA PATRIOT Act and the Administrative Agent (for itself and not on behalf of any Lender) hereby notifies the Borrowers that pursuant to the requirements of the USA PATRIOT Act, it is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each Loan Party, which information includes the name and address of each Loan Party and other information that will allow such Lender or the Administrative Agent, as applicable, to identify each Loan Party in accordance with the USA PATRIOT Act.

 

SECTION 10.20.    Canadian Anti-Money Laundering Legislation .

 

(1)                                 Each Loan Party acknowledges that, pursuant to the Proceeds of Crime Act and other applicable Canadian anti-money laundering, anti-terrorist financing, government sanction and “know your client” laws (collectively, including any guidelines or orders thereunder, “ AML Legislation ”), the Lenders may be required to obtain, verify and record information regarding the Loan Parties and their respective directors, authorized signing officers, direct or indirect shareholders or other Persons in control of the Loan Parties, and the transactions contemplated hereby. Each Loan Party shall promptly provide all such information, including supporting documentation and other evidence, as may be reasonably requested by any Lender or any prospective assignee or participant of a

 

201



 

Lender or any Agent, in order to comply with any applicable AML Legislation, whether now or hereafter in existence.

 

(2)                                 If the Administrative Agent has ascertained the identity of any Loan Party or any authorized signatories of the Loan Parties for the purposes of applicable AML Legislation, then the Administrative Agent:

 

(a)                                 shall be deemed to have done so as an agent for each Lender, and this Agreement shall constitute a “written agreement” in such regard between each Lender and the Administrative Agent within the meaning of the applicable AML Legislation; and

 

(b)                                 shall provide to each Lender copies of all information obtained in such regard without any representation or warranty as to its accuracy or completeness.

 

Notwithstanding the preceding sentence and except as may otherwise be agreed in writing, each of the Lenders agrees that neither the Administrative Agent nor any other Agent has any obligation to ascertain the identity of the Loan Parties or any authorized signatories of the Loan Parties on behalf of any Lender, or to confirm the completeness or accuracy of any information it obtains from any Loan Party or any such authorized signatory in doing so.

 

SECTION 10.21.    Security Documents and Intercreditor Agreements .  (a) The parties hereto acknowledge and agree that any provision of any Loan Document to the contrary notwithstanding, prior to the discharge in full of all ABL Claims, the Loan Parties shall not be required to act or refrain from acting under any Security Document with respect to the ABL Priority Collateral in any manner that would result in a “Default” or “Event of Default” (as defined in any ABL Loan Document) under the terms and provisions of the ABL Loan Documents.  Each Lender hereunder:

 

(1)                                 consents to the subordination of Liens provided for in the Intercreditor Agreement;

 

(2)                                 agrees that it will be bound by and will take no actions contrary to the provisions of the Intercreditor Agreement; and

 

(3)                                 authorizes and instructs the Administrative Agent to enter into the Intercreditor Agreement as Term Loan Agent and on behalf of such Lender.

 

(b)                                 The parties hereto authorize the Administrative Agent to enter into any First Lien Intercreditor Agreement or Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement each in the form attached hereto or in such other form as may be satisfactory to the Administrative Agent.  The Administrative Agent may from time to time enter into a modification of the Intercreditor Agreement, any First Lien Intercreditor Agreement or any Junior Lien Intercreditor Agreement, as the case may be, so long as the Administrative Agent reasonably determines that such modification is consistent with the terms of this Agreement.

 

SECTION 10.22.    No Advisory or Fiduciary Responsibility .  In connection with all aspects of each transaction contemplated hereby (including in connection with any

 

202



 

amendment, waiver or other modification hereof or of any other Loan Document), each of Holdings and the Borrowers acknowledge and agree that:  (1) (a) the arranging and other services regarding this Agreement provided by the Agents, the Lenders and the Arrangers are arm’s-length commercial transactions between Holdings and the Borrowers, on the one hand, and the Agents, the Lenders and the Arrangers, on the other hand; (b) the Borrowers and Holdings have consulted their own legal, accounting, regulatory and tax advisors to the extent they deemed appropriate; and (c) the Borrowers and Holdings are capable of evaluating, and understands and accepts, the terms, risks and conditions of the transactions contemplated hereby and by the other Loan Documents; (2) (a) each Agent, each Lender and each Arranger each is and has been acting solely as a principal and, except as expressly agreed in writing by the relevant parties, has not been, is not, and will not be acting as an advisor, agent or fiduciary for any Borrower, Holdings or any other Person and (b) none of the Agents, Lenders or Arrangers has any obligation to any Borrower, Holdings or any of their Affiliates with respect to the transactions contemplated hereby except those obligations expressly set forth herein and in the other Loan Documents; and (3) the Agents, the Lenders, the Arrangers and their respective Affiliates may be engaged in a broad range of transactions that involve interests that differ from those of any Borrower, Holdings and their respective Affiliates, and none of the Agents, any Lender or any Arranger has any obligation to disclose any of such interests to any Borrower, Holdings or any of their respective Affiliates.

 

SECTION 10.23.    Cashless Settlement .  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement, any Lender may exchange, continue or rollover all or a portion of its Term Loans in connection with any refinancing, extension, loan modification or similar transaction permitted by the terms of this Agreement, pursuant to a cashless settlement mechanism approved by the Borrowers, the Administrative Agent and such Lender.

 

SECTION 10.24.    Judgment Currency . If for the purpose of obtaining judgment in any court it is necessary to convert an amount due hereunder in the currency in which it is due (the “ Original Currency ”) into another currency (the “ Second Currency ”), the rate of exchange applied shall be that at which, in accordance with normal banking procedures, the Agent could purchase in the New York foreign exchange market, the Original Currency with the Second Currency on the date two (2) Business Days preceding that on which judgment is given. Each Loan Party agrees that its obligation in respect of any Original Currency due from it hereunder shall, notwithstanding any judgment or payment in such other currency, be discharged only to the extent that, on the Business Day following the date the Administrative Agent receives payment of any sum so adjudged to be due hereunder in the Second Currency, the Administrative Agent may, in accordance with normal banking procedures, purchase, in the New York foreign exchange market, the Original Currency with the amount of the Second Currency so paid; and if the amount of the Original Currency so purchased or could have been so purchased is less than the amount originally due in the Original Currency, each Loan Party agrees as a separate obligation and notwithstanding any such payment or judgment to indemnify the Administrative Agent against such loss. The term “rate of exchange” in this Section 10.24 means the spot rate at which the Administrative Agent, in accordance with normal practices, is able on the relevant date to purchase the Original Currency with the Second Currency, and includes any premium and costs of exchange payable in connection with such purchase.

 

203



 

SECTION 10.25.    Acknowledgement and Consent to Bail-In of EEA Financial Institutions .  Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in any Loan Document or in any other agreement, arrangement or understanding among any such parties, each party hereto acknowledges that any liability of any EEA Financial Institution arising under any Loan Document may be subject to the write-down and conversion powers of an EEA Resolution Authority and agrees and consents to, and acknowledges and agrees to be bound by:

 

(1)                                 the application of any Write-Down and Conversion Powers by an EEA Resolution Authority to any such liabilities arising hereunder which may be payable to it by any party hereto that is an EEA Financial Institution; and

 

(2)                                 the effects of any Bail-In Action on any such liability, including, if applicable:

 

(a)                                 a reduction in full or in part or cancellation of any such liability;

 

(b)                                 a conversion of all, or a portion of, such liability into shares or other instruments of ownership in such EEA Financial Institution, its parent entity, or a bridge institution that may be issued to it or otherwise conferred on it, and that such shares or other instruments of ownership will be accepted by it in lieu of any rights with respect to any such liability under this Agreement or any other Loan Document; or

 

(c)                                  the variation of the terms of such liability in connection with the exercise of the Write-Down and Conversion Powers of any EEA Resolution Authority.

 

SECTION 10.26.    Holdings as Agent for Borrowers .  Each Borrower hereby irrevocably appoints Holdings as the borrowing agent and attorney-in-fact for all Borrowers which appointment shall remain in full force and effect unless and until Administrative Agent shall have received prior written notice signed by each Borrower that such appointment has been revoked and that another Loan Party has been appointed in such role.  Each Borrower hereby irrevocably appoints and authorizes Holdings (a) to provide Administrative Agent with all notices with respect to all notices and instructions under this Agreement and the other Loan Documents (and any notice or instruction provided Holdings shall be deemed to be given by Borrowers hereunder and shall bind each Borrower), (b) to receive notices and instructions from the Administrative Agent and Lenders (and any notice or instruction provided by Administrative Agent or any Lender to Holdings in accordance with the terms hereof shall be deemed to have been given to each Borrower), and (c) to take such action as Holdings deems appropriate on its behalf to obtain Loans and Letters of Credit and to exercise such other powers as are reasonably incidental thereto to carry out the purposes of this Agreement.  Each Borrower expects to derive benefit, directly or indirectly, from the handling of the loan accounts and the Collateral in a combined fashion since the successful operation of each Borrower is dependent on the continued successful performance of the integrated group.

 

204



 

[REMAINDER OF PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

205



 

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed by their respective officers thereunto duly authorized, as of the date first above written.

 

 

 

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC, as Holdings

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

 

 

 

 

 

VENATOR FINANCE S.A R.L., as the Lux Borrower

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title: Authorized Signatory

 

 

 

 

 

 

VENATOR MATERIALS LLC, as the US Borrower

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

[Signature Page to Term Loan Credit Agreement]

 



 

 

JPMORGAN CHASE BANK, N.A.
as Administrative Agent, Collateral Agent and a Lender

 

 

 

 

 

By

 

 

 

Name:

 

 

Title:

 

[Signature Page to Term Loan Credit Agreement]

 




Exhibit 10.8

 

 

19 June 2017

 

PERSONAL

 

Russ Stolle

2 Hampton Place

The Woodlands, TX 77381

 

RE: Relocation to Wynyard, UK , under Huntsman’s Global Mobility Long Term Assignment Policy

 

Dear Russ:

 

The Long Term Assignment Policy has been developed to ensure that Huntsman associates on temporary international assignments are able to maintain a lifestyle reasonably comparable to that which they enjoyed in their home country.

 

The terms and conditions of your employment, other than as set out in this letter, remain unchanged throughout the temporary assignment.  During your temporary assignment your employment will remain with Huntsman P&A Americas LLC (The Home Company) and shall continue to be governed by Texas and U.S. law.  This letter sets out the details of your temporary assignment to Huntsman P&A UK Ltd (The Host Company) which continues until you are no longer employed with The Home Company or this temporary assignment ends.

 

While on assignment, your Home Country/Location will be The Woodlands, Texas, USA and your Host Country/Location will be Wynyard, United Kingdom for the purpose of managing your assignment details.

 

Your assignment status will be:                                                                          Family  Single  Unaccompanied

Your job title while on assignment will be:  Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer.

 

Your accompanying family member/s on this assignment will be:

 

Resident Dependents

 

Relationship

 

Date of Birth

Sharon Stolle

 

Spouse

 

Nov 3, 1962

Non-Resident Eligible Dependents(1)

 

 

 

 

John N. Stolle

 

Son

 

Nov 22, 1997

Emma J Stolle

 

Daughter

 

Aug 4, 1994

 


(1)  Children back home up to age 26.

 

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380, USA

Tel: 281-719-6000   Fax: 281-719-6416   info@venatorcorp.com   www.venatorcorp.com

 



 

1.0                                CONTINUATION OF CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT WITH THE HOME COUNTRY

 

 

Although you will be working with The Host Company, your contract of employment with The Home Company will continue in existence during your assignment, except as herein provided.  In particular, the provision regarding termination of employment will remain in full force and operation throughout the period of your assignment.  However, notwithstanding anything contained herein to the contrary, the terms of Huntsman Corporation’s Executive Severance Plan (as attached) will apply to any termination of your employment.  The following terms shall be in operation throughout the duration of your assignment.

 

2.0                                DURATION OF AND CONDITIONS OF ASSIGNMENT

 

2.1                                Duration

 

The assignment will start on 1 August 2017 and is expected to last for approximately three (3) years.  It will not be extended beyond 31 July 2020 without your agreement.  A Long Term Assignment may be extended up to a maximum of five (5) years.

 

2.2                                Conditional Assignment

 

Employment authorization must be obtained before you begin work in the Host Country; therefore, this assignment is conditioned on your being granted the necessary permit or visa and any determination that you satisfy any physician requirements necessary to perform the job with The Host Company.  Your Host Company HR contact will coordinate 1) any necessary Host Country work permit/visa application process on your behalf and 2) arrange for any necessary medical examinations.

 

3.0                                ANNUAL SALARY

 

For the purpose of calculating your international assignment remuneration package, an initial home base salary (not including  certain allowances) has been established at USD 430,000 per annum as defined in your home payroll system. During the period of your assignment your salary will be subject to your normal home country salary review.

 

4.0                                EXPATRIATE REMUNERATION PACKAGE

 

Separately, you will receive a copy of your overseas Salary Proforma prepared for your signature.  Huntsman’s expatriate remuneration policy for expatriates has been applied in calculating your overseas compensation.  Details can be explained to you by your Home Company HR contact.

 

4.1                                Gross Annual Salary

 

During your assignment to The Host Company, your remuneration package will be based on a gross annual salary of USD 430,000.  From this gross figure a home “net salary” will be derived, following a hypothetical deduction of Home Country income tax, and, if appropriate, state or local income tax, as there is no actual withholding on these amounts.  Actual social security tax will be deducted from

 

2



 

your “net salary”, as well as your applicable home country pre-tax benefits (e.g., medical/dental contributions) according to your benefit elections.

 

All other taxable compensation paid to you, including your bonus, will be subject to the mandatory income tax deduction, with an actual deduction of Home Country social security tax and applicable benefit deductions.

 

4.2                                Indexation

 

The Company uses a home-based pay approach which relates expatriate compensation to that of peers in The Home Country.  Huntsman obtains Cost of Living (COLA) indices from an external consultancy company that specializes in expatriate international compensation data and provides Huntsman with cost of living data measuring the difference in prices between The Home and The Host Locations using a shopping basket which is representative of a managerial level life style.  Your salary Proforma will specify the COLA index applied for your assignment.

 

4.3                                International Location Allowance (ILA)

 

You will receive an ILA equal to 5% of your gross annual salary.  Please note that the ILA is not a pensionable benefit and will be payable in your Home Country.

 

If your Assignment is extended, your ILA may increase or decrease to reflect the ILA rate in effect at that time.

 

4.4                                Remuneration Delivery

 

You may choose from an undefined range of options to split the delivery of your expatriate salary into a percentage paid in The Home Country with the balance paid in The Host Country.  Once a year, typically following the annual salary review process, you may alter your split pay arrangements.  Salary payments will be credited into the bank accounts of your choice in The Home and Host Countries only.  A request for salary payments made into offshore accounts will be denied.  Payment will be made on the usual Home and Host Country payroll dates established for administering expatriate payroll.  Please refer to your Salary Proforma for more details.

 

4.5                                Salary Review

 

Your expatriation salary calculation will be reviewed at least once a year, taking into account all changes which have taken place in your Home Country, such as tax brackets, social security, annual salary review, cost of living index and currency exchange rates.  Your salary will be reviewed according to the normal Home Country practice and budget, with merit increments based on your Host Country Performance.

 

3



 

4.6                                Bonus Calculations

 

Your annual bonus target percentage will be 70% of your gross annual salary.

 

Your bonus payment will be subject to your Home Country taxation rules.

 

Please note that all bonus and other one-off payments (where you are responsible for the tax) will be subject to the mandatory 25% Supplemental tax, as well as actual U.S. social security and Medicare taxes.

 

5.0                                TAXATION

 

5.1                                Host Country Tax

 

The Host Company will be responsible for payment of relevant Host Country income and other taxes, social security and pension fund contributions (as applicable) on Company income only. You agree, therefore, that your gross remuneration as declared to the Host Country authorities for any tax year may increase or decrease depending on the Host Country tax rules.  We draw your attention to the fact that the split remuneration payments usually do not affect the Host Country taxable income, as payments in both countries generally have to be considered as income derived in the Host Country and is taxable as such.

 

The Company-designated accounting firm will prepare your Host Country income tax returns for the duration of this assignment and until all available tax credits for the Company have been exhausted.  In return, you agree to disclose all information necessary to prepare an accurate, complete, and timely-filed tax return, and to comply with all Host Country tax requirements.  In case of non-compliance, you will be subject to disciplinary action and/or financial penalty at the discretion of the Home and Host Company.

 

The Home or Host Company will not be liable for any tax payable as a result of additional personal income from any non-Company source.  Thus, non-Company income (whether arising in the Home or Host Country) shall generate a tax liability for your own account, including income from any dependent children under the age of 18 .  You should confer with the Company-designated accounting firm in order to minimize the taxation of non-Company income in the Host Country.

 

As an equity participant, the taxation basis for your equity may change as a result of your assignment.  Please consult with your Stock Partner for further information.

 

5.2                                Home Country Tax

 

The Company-designated accounting firm will prepare your Home Country income tax return(s) for the duration of this assignment, and any subsequent years that are impacted by this assignment.  Citizens or permanent residents must file a tax return each year, even when living abroad.

 

At the beginning of your assignment, T he Company-designated accounting firm will be made available to you for a one-time tax consultation to allow you to

 

4



 

address any concerns relating to your Home Country personal financial affairs.  Ongoing consultation required to manage your personal financial affairs will be your responsibility, including consultation on any matters relating to home housing.

 

As noted above, a hypothetical income tax and actual social taxes will be deducted from your gross salary.  The Home Company will be responsible for payment of relevant income tax on your Company income only.  The Home or Host Company will not be liable for any tax payable as a result of additional personal income from any non-Company source.   Thus, non-Company income (whether arising in the Home or Host Country) may generate a tax liability for your own account.

 

6.0                                ANNUAL HOLIDAY/VACATION AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

 

While on assignment your holiday/vacation (time away from work) eligibility will continue to be governed by your home country vacation/holiday program, practices and policy.  You will be eligible for your normal Home Country basic annual holiday/vacation entitlement. It may be necessary to cash out some holiday/vacation if the balance is significantly more than your basic country entitlement.

 

The timing of your holiday/vacation will be subject to approval by your Host Manager.  Any leave taken for home visits will be deducted from your annual leave entitlement.

 

While on assignment you will observe the Host Location’s national/public or discretionary non-work day policies.

 

The process for taking and reporting holiday or vacation while on assignment will be explained by the Host HR representative.  You may be required to report time not worked to your Home Location per the regular recording process, as well as to the Host Location.

 

7.0                                PENSION FUND

 

During the period of your assignment, you will continue to be covered under your Home Country pension benefits programs.  If, for regulatory or other reasons, you become ineligible for your Home Country pension benefit program, The Home Company HR department will advise you on alternative options available to you.

 

8.0                                SOCIAL SECURITY

 

During the period of your assignment, you may be able to remain a contributing participant in your Home Country social security system so long as the certificate to keep you in your home social security system is completed and submitted.  This will be coordinated by the Home Company HR contact.

 

If you are not eligible to maintain participation in The Home Country social security system, the Home Company HR contact will advise you of alternative arrangements.  Details about the administrative procedure and the Company support relating to expatriate’s social security arrangements may be obtained from The Home Company HR contact.

 

5



 

9.0                                MEDICAL INSURANCE

 

You and your dependents will be enrolled under the international healthcare scheme, details of which will be made available to you.  You will continue to be responsible for the healthcare premium that is equivalent to the domestic plan; normal co-pays and deductibles apply.

 

Neither the Company nor the plan will fund costs for cosmetic treatments or other elective procedures.

 

The current Healthcare Scheme provider is Aetna Global.  Huntsman retains the right to change the insurance providers or medical/dental/optical practitioners at any time.

 

10.0                         EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE SERVICES

 

To keep Assignees safe and healthy while living outside of their home country, you will be enrolled in a membership program through Europ Assistance.  Europ Assistance provides medical, security and logistical expertise to help safeguard our international travellers, expatriates and global workforce.

 

Europ Assistance will get in touch with the Company as needed, depending upon the situation, and can even communicate with your family members.

 

Please note that the Company retains the right to change providers at any time without notice.

 

11.0                         RELOCATION

 

11.1                         Transfer of Personal Effects

 

The Company will assist with transferring your personal effects to the Host Country.  Huntsman’s external relocation agent will provide you with shipping policy details and assist with any customs formalities required to transfer ‘allowable’ personal effects across international borders.

 

Huntsman reserves the right to deem personal effects as allowable or disallowable for shipment in accordance with the limitations described in the Company’s Global Mobility Long Term Assignment Policy.

 

At the end of your assignment, the Company will assist with transferring your personal effects back to a location of your choice in your Home Country or on to a consecutive international assignment.  The same limitations apply for repatriation of your HHG.

 

6



 

11.2                         Relocation Allowance

 

At the start of your assignment, you will be paid a Relocation Allowance equal to 10%(2) of your current gross annual home salary as detailed on your salary Proforma.  The allowance will be paid by The Host Company together with your first Host Country salary payment.

 

The Relocation Allowance is intended to defray miscellaneous, incidental expenses in connection with your relocation, such as replacement of household items and equipment, small appliances, special clothing needs, additional quantities of toiletries or special foodstuffs, insurance, driver’s license fees for spouse or child(ren), day-care, or other miscellaneous costs, and other expenses solely at the employee’s discretion.  You will be responsible for using this allowance for incidental costs based on your needs.

 

At the end of your assignment, and on return to your home country or transfer to another country, you will again receive a relocation allowance equal to 10% (net) of your current gross annual home salary, as defined by your home payroll system, to be paid in your Home Country or new Host Country.

 

In some countries it may be necessary for you to provide proof of expenditure to tax authorities.  Some invoices and/or receipts must be kept for tax authority inspection for a minimum period, depending on the Home or Host Country Regulations.  If this evidence of expenditure is not provided, it may result in a personal tax liability to you.

 

If you resign from The Company before completing your assignment, you will not be eligible for the end of assignment payment of the Relocation Allowance.

 

11.3                         Sale of Home in Home Country

 

For a period of eighteen months following the start of your assignment, you will be eligible to sell your home located in the Home Country under the same terms provided in Huntsman International LLC’s current domestic relocation policy.

 

12.0                         HOME LEAVE

 

The Host Company will provide you and your spouse with three (3) home country return trip(s), for each twelve (12) months of your assignment (“assignment year”).  The timing of the home visits will be agreed by your Host Country Line Manager.  Home visits will be reported as vacation leave.  The class of travel will be business class airfare.

 

Alternatively, you may request a one-time lump sum Home Leave Allowance, subject to hypotax, that you can use in lieu of a Home Leave airfare reimbursement once each year.  You may use this home leave allowance to fund additional trips home for your spouse, your children, or to travel to other locations.

 

The Company will not pay for hotel accommodations or for local rental cars or other transportation costs during your Home Leave stay in The Home Country.

 


(2)  5% if Single Status or Unaccompanied Status; 10% if Family Status

 

7



 

Home leave may not be encashed.  Home leave is not accrued or pro-rated.  Home leave not utilized may not be carried forward.

 

Please ensure you retain all travel tickets, boarding passes and receipts for any necessary expense claim or tax reporting requirements.

 

13.0                         ACCOMMODATION WHILE ON ASSIGNMENT

 

13.1                         Temporary Accommodation

 

The Company will provide you with temporary living accommodations for up to 30 days (or until your household goods (HHG) shipment arrives, clears customs, and is prepared for delivery).   If self-catering facilities are not available in the temporary accommodation, you may claim reasonable subsistence expenses (reimbursed against receipts only).  It is expected that your transfer to longer term accommodation will be arranged as soon as your household goods arrive and are ready for delivery.  This arrangement will also apply on your return to The Home Country or upon transfer to another assignment.

 

13.2                         Long Term Accommodation

 

You will be provided with a suitable standard of long term accommodation in the Host Country, based on family size, Host Country market conditions and availability.  Housing and furniture rental costs and any related tax liabilities will be met by The Host Company.

 

14.0                         TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS (Assignment Travel)

 

The Host Company will support the travel costs for you and for any eligible accompanying family members to and from the Host Country at the start and end of your assignment in accordance with the Company’s Business Travel Policy.  Business travel guidelines and expense reporting policies will apply and govern your normal travel expenses, such as limitations for food, entertainment and receipt requirements.

 

15.0                         EDUCATION :

 

It is anticipated that your child(ren) will not be enrolled in the private school system in the Host Location; therefore, no reimbursement is applicable.

 

15.1                         EDUCATION TRAVEL

 

Full-time college students (including through the end of the calendar year of their graduation from college), under the age of 26, or non-resident children under the age of 18 residing with a custodial parent, will be eligible for three round-trip economy class airline tickets per each twelve (12) month period of your assignment, via the most direct route from Point of Origin to your assignment location.  This is intended for full-time college students and/or non-custodial children under the age of 18 who are still enrolled in high school to visit you.  Education travel not utilized will be forfeited Unused education travel does not

 

8


 

accrue benefit.  Education travel may not be encashed nor may parents use children’s travel allocation as additional home leave trips.

 

16.0                         TRANSPORTATION

 

You will be provided with two (2) company cars suitable for your position/grade for use by you and your spouse (without “trade-up charge”).  Tax assessment for car benefit(s) will be managed under Home Country gross to net salary calculations.

 

17.0                         DATA PRIVACY

 

Your personal information is treated in accordance with the Company’s global privacy policy.  As is stated in the policy, the Company collects, uses, and processes personal information, related to your employment, which includes your assignment.

 

In addition, the Company uses and processes the personal information of your dependents or accompanying family members, and will, as necessary and in connection with your mobilization to a new expatriate assignment, share your data and your dependent data with third party vendors.

 

18.0                         MAIL FORWARDING

 

You will be responsible for coordinating your personal mail with a trusted family member or friend, or arrange for a mail forwarding service through an independent party.  The Company will not be responsible for forwarding your personal mail.

 

19.0                         TERMINATION OF ASSIGNMENT

 

19.1                         The Home Company will notify you of your repatriation by giving you not less than three (3) months prior written notice.  You may terminate the assignment at any time by giving The Home Company no less than three (3) months prior written notice.

 

19.2                         On termination of your assignment, you will revert to the full terms of your Home Country contract of employment, subject to the following:

 

Upon repatriation to The Home Country, your annual Home base salary will not change from the annual home base salary paid to you at the end of your overseas assignment, which will be reflected in your final expatriate Proforma.

 

19.3                         Notwithstanding 19.1 above, The Home Company may, by notice in writing, terminate forthwith your assignment in any of the following events:

 

i)                                          If it is determined by The Company that for any reason you are unable to perform the essential functions of your job,

 

ii)                                       If you have violated The Company’s Business Conduct Guidelines and serious disciplinary action results, or

 

iii)                                    If by any reason of personal illness you are unable to carry out your duties for any time in excess of six months during any period of twelve months.

 

9



 

19.4                         On the termination of your assignment under this contract and in accordance with the terms specified in 19.1, 19.2 and 19.3 above, you wave, to the extent possible, any recovery with regards to this assignment 1) with respect to any rights conferred by the Host Country employment protection legislation, or ii) for a redundancy payment pursuant to that or benefits related legislation.

 

20.0                         LOCALIZATION

 

Assignment terms often run for only three (3) years and are not extended beyond five (5) years, but the Company may discuss 1) transferring your employment to local Host Country terms ( localization), 2) repatriation to your home country (with or without a job), or 3) a new assignment to another location after your initial assignment period.  If you are interested in localizing in your Host Country or prefer one of the other options, you should engage your manager in a discussion in your 4 th  Assignment Year.

 

21.0                         SECRECY

 

You are reminded that during your assignment, and on return to The Home Country, the Company’s confidentiality policy continues to apply.

 

22.0                         LAW

 

This agreement is governed by the employment laws that are applicable in USA.

 

If you would like to accept the offer of assignment based on the terms and conditions outline above, would you please sign and return the enclosed copy of this letter.

 

Yours sincerely,

 

Kevin Wilson

VP Human Resources

 

I have read, understood and accept the assignment and its terms and conditions to The Host Company.  I also acknowledge receipt of an electronic copy of the Long Term Assignment Briefing Document.

 

Signed

Date:

 

 

/s/ Russ Stolle

 

 

June 19, 2017

Russ Stolle

 

 

10



 

Enclosure:  Salary Proforma

 

11



 

June 15, 2017

 

Russ R. Stolle

2 Hampton Place

The Woodlands, TX  77381

 

Subject:  Agreement Concerning Retiree Medical Benefit

 

Dear Russ:

 

In recognition of the “Rule of 80” retiree benefits in which you attained the status of “vested” by virtue of your age plus years of service under Huntsman International LLC’s Retiree Welfare Plan, Huntsman P&A Americas LLC (“Huntsman P&A”) agrees to the following in connection with your transfer from Huntsman International LLC to Huntsman P&A:

 

If at any time prior to the date on which you reach the age of 65 you separate from Huntsman P&A for any reason, you and your dependents will be eligible for coverage under the Retiree Welfare Plan of Huntsman P&A (or its successor, as the case may be).  In the event that, at any time prior to the date on which you reach the age of 65, Huntsman P&A terminates its Retiree Welfare Plan, or modifies or amends the Retiree Welfare Plan or its implementation such that the Retiree Welfare Plan provides options less favorable than those offered to Huntsman P&A active employees, or the monthly premium for Huntsman P&A retirees increases at a rate that exceeds the rate of increase for Huntsman P&A active employees for the comparable period, then Huntsman P&A shall pay to you, in cash at the beginning of each month until the date you reach the age of 65, the cash equivalent value of the continuation of the benefits under the Retiree Welfare Plan with the options provided to you at the retiree premiums required of you immediately prior to the date of such termination, modification or amendment.

 

 

Sincerely,

 

 

 

Simon Turner

 

President and CEO

 

Accepted and Agreed:

 

Russ R. Stolle

 

12




Exhibit 10.9

 

 

11 July 2017

 

CONFIDENTIAL

 

Kurt Ogden

75 S. Player Manor Cir

The Woodlands, TX  77382-1807

 

RE: Relocation to Wynyard, UK under Huntsman’s Global Mobility Long Term Assignment Policy

 

Dear Kurt

 

The Long Term Assignment Policy has been developed to ensure that Huntsman associates on international assignments are able to maintain a lifestyle reasonably comparable to that which they enjoyed in their home country.  The Policy is designed only for temporary assignments; it will be reviewed regularly for amendment or discontinuation.

 

The terms and conditions of your employment, other than as set out in this letter; remain unchanged throughout the temporary assignment.  Your employment will remain with Huntsman P&A Americas LLC (The Home Company) and shall continue to be governed by USA law.  This letter sets out the details of your temporary assignment to Huntsman P&A UK Ltd (The Host Company) which continues until you are no longer employed with the Company or this temporary assignment ends.

 

While on assignment your Home Country/Location will be USA/The Woodlands and your Host Country/Location will be UK/Wynyard for the purpose of managing your assignment details.

 

Your assignment status will be:                                                                          Family  Single  Unaccompanied

Your job title while on assignment will be:  SVP and Chief Financial Officer

 

Your accompanying family member/s on this assignment will be:

 

Resident Dependents

 

Relationship

 

Date of Birth

Lisa Ogden

 

Wife

 

30 Jul 1969

Molly Ogden

 

Daughter

 

8 Jan 2006

Ella Ogden

 

Daughter

 

5 March 2004

Annie Ogden

 

Daughter

 

7 May 2000

 

Non-Resident Eligible Dependents(1)

 

 

 

 

Bennett Ogden

 

Son

 

7 Jan 1998

 


(1)  Children back home attending University for 1 st  degree, up to age 23; or up to age 18 not attending university.

 

10001 Woodloch Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380, USA

Tel: 281-719-6000   Fax: 281-719-6416   info@venatorcorp.com   www.venatorcorp.com

 



 

1.0                                CONTINUATION OF CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT WITH THE HOME COUNTRY

 

Although you will be working with The Host Company, your contract of employment with The Home Company will continue in existence during your assignment, except as herein provided.  In particular the provision regarding termination of employment will remain in full force and operation throughout the period of your assignment.  The following terms shall be in operation throughout the duration of your assignment.

 

2.0                                DURATION OF AND CONDITIONS OF ASSIGNMENT

 

2.1                                Duration

 

The assignment will start on 1 August 2017 and is expected to last for approximately three (3) years.  It will not be extended beyond 31 July 2020 without your agreement.  A Long Term Assignment may be extended up to a maximum of five (5) years.

 

2.2                                Conditional Assignment

 

Employment authorization must be obtained before you begin work in the Host Country; therefore, this assignment is conditioned on your being granted the necessary permit or visa and any determination that you satisfy any physician requirements necessary to perform the job with The Host Company.  Your Host Company HR contact will coordinate 1) any necessary Host Country work permit./visa application process on your behalf and, 2) arrange for any necessary medical examinations.

 

3.0                                ANNUAL SALARY

 

For the purpose of calculating your international assignment remuneration package, an initial home salary (not including  certain allowances) has been established at USD 500,000 per annum as defined in your home payroll system. During the period of your assignment your salary will be subject to your normal home country salary review.

 

4.0                                EXPATRIATE REMUNERATION PACKAGE

 

Separately, you will receive a copy of your overseas Salary Proforma prepared for your signature.  Huntsman’s expatriate remuneration policy for expatriates has been applied in calculating your overseas compensation.  Details can be explained to you by your Home Company HR contact.

 

4.1                                Gross Annual Salary

 

During your assignment to The Host Company, your remuneration package will be based on a gross annual salary of USD 500,000.  From this gross figure a home “net salary” will be derived, following a hypothetical deduction of Home Country income tax, and, if appropriate, state or local income tax, as there is no actual withholding on these amounts.  Actual social security tax will be deducted from your “net salary”, as well as your applicable home country pre-tax benefits (e.g., medical/dental contributions) according to your benefit elections.

 

All other taxable compensation paid to you, including your bonus, will be subject to the mandatory income tax deduction, with an actual deduction of Home Country social security tax and applicable benefit deductions.

 

2



 

4.2                                Indexation

 

The Company uses a home-based pay approach which relates expatriate compensation to that of peers in The Home Country.  Huntsman obtains Cost of Living (COLA) indices from an external consultancy company that specializes in expatriate international compensation data and provides Huntsman with cost of living data measuring the difference in prices between The Home and The Host Locations using a shopping basket which is representative of a managerial level life style.  Your salary Proforma will specify the COLA index applied for your assignment.

 

4.3                                International Location Allowance (ILA)

 

You will receive an ILA equal to 5% of your gross annual salary.  Please note that the ILA is not a pensionable benefit and will be payable in your Home Country.

 

If your Assignment is extended, your ILA may increase or decrease to reflect the ILA rate in effect at that time.

 

.

 

4.4                                Remuneration Delivery

 

You may choose from an undefined range of options to split the delivery of your expatriate salary into a percentage paid in The Home Country with the balance paid in The Host Country.  Once a year, typically following the annual salary review process, you may alter your split pay arrangements.  Salary payments will be credited into the bank accounts of your choice in The Home and Host Countries only.  A request for salary payments made into offshore accounts will be denied.  Payment will be made on the usual Home and Host Country payroll dates established for administering expatriate payroll.  Please refer to your Salary Proforma for more details.

 

4.5                                Salary Review

 

Your expatriation salary calculation will be reviewed at least once a year, taking into account all changes which have taken place in your Home Country, such as tax brackets, social security, annual salary review, cost of living index and currency exchange rates.  Your salary will be reviewed according to the normal Home Country practice and budget, with merit increments based on your Host Country Performance.

 

4.6                                Bonus Calculations

 

Your annual bonus target percentage will be 70% of your gross annual salary.

 

Your bonus payment will be subject to your Home Country taxation rules.

 

Please note that all bonus and other one-off payments (where you are responsible for the tax) will be subject to the mandatory 25% Supplemental tax, as well as actual U.S. social security and Medicare taxes.

 

3



 

5.0                                TAXATION

 

5.1                                Host Country Tax

 

The Host Company will be responsible for payment of relevant Host Country income tax, social security and pension fund contributions (as applicable) on Huntsman income only. You agree, therefore, that your gross remuneration as declared to the Host Country authorities for any tax year may increase or decrease depending on the Host Country tax rules.  We draw your attention to the fact that the split remuneration payments usually do not affect the Host Country taxable income, as payments in both countries generally have to be considered as income derived in the Host Country and is taxable as such.

 

The Company-designated accounting firm will prepare your Host Country income tax returns for the duration of this assignment and until all available tax credits for Huntsman have been exhausted.  In return, you agree to disclose all information necessary to prepare an accurate, complete, and timely-filed tax return, and to comply with all Host Country tax requirements.  In case of non-compliance, you will be subject to disciplinary action and/or financial penalty at the discretion of the Home and Host Company.

 

The Home or Host Company will not be liable for any tax payable as a result of additional personal income from any non-Huntsman source.  Thus, non-Huntsman income (whether arising in the Home or Host Country) shall generate a tax liability for your own account, including income from any dependent children under the age of 18 .  You should confer with the company-designated accounting firm in order to minimize the taxation of non-Huntsman income in the Host Country.

 

As an equity participant, the taxation basis for your equity may change as a result of your assignment.  Please consult with your Stock Partner for further information.

 

5.2                                Home Country Tax

 

The Company-designated accounting firm will prepare your Home Country income tax return(s) for the duration of this assignment, and any subsequent years that are impacted by this assignment.  Citizens or permanent residents must file a tax return each year, even when living abroad.

 

At the beginning of your assignment, T he Company-designated accounting firm will be made available to you for a one-time tax consultation to allow you to address any concerns relating to your Home Country personal financial affairs.  Ongoing consultation required to manage your personal financial affairs will be your responsibility, including consultation on any matters relating to home housing.

 

As noted above, a hypothetical income tax and actual social taxes will be deducted from your Huntsman gross salary.  The Home Company will be responsible for payment of relevant income tax on your Huntsman income only.  The Home or Host Company will not be liable for any tax payable as a result of additional personal income from any non-Huntsman source.   Thus, non-Huntsman income (whether arising in the Home or Host Country) may generate a tax liability for your own account.

 

4



 

6.0                                ANNUAL HOLIDAY/VACATION AND PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

 

While on assignment your holiday/vacation [time away from work] eligibility will continue to be governed by your home country vacation/holiday program, practices and policy.  You will be eligible for your normal Home Country basic annual holiday/vacation entitlement. It may be necessary to cash out some holiday/vacation of the balance is significantly more than your basic country entitlement.

 

The timing of your holiday/vacation will be subject to approval by your Host Manager.  Any leave taken for home visits will be deducted from your annual leave entitlement.

 

While on assignment you will observe the Host Location’s national/public or discretionary non-work day policies.

 

The process for taking and reporting holiday or vacation while on assignment will be explained by the Host HR representative.  You may be required to report time not worked to your Home Location per the regular recording process, as well as to the Host Location.

 

7.0                                PENSION FUND

 

During the period of your assignment, you will continue to be covered under your Home Country pension benefits programs.  If, for regulatory or other reasons, you become ineligible for your Home Country pension benefit program, The Home Company HR department will advise you on alternative options available to you.

 

8.0                                SOCIAL SECURITY

 

During the period of your assignment, you may be able to remain a contributing participant in your Home Country social security system so long as the certificate to keep you in your home social security system is completed and submitted.  This will be coordinated, by the Home Company HR contact.

 

If you are not eligible to maintain participation in The Home Country social security system, the Home Company HR contact will advise you of alternative arrangements.  Details about the administrative procedure and the Company support relating to expatriate’s social security arrangements may be obtained from The Home Company HR contact.

 

9.0                                MEDICAL INSURANCE

 

You will be enrolled under the international healthcare scheme, details of which will be made available to you.  You will continue to be responsible for the healthcare premium that is equivalent to the domestic plan; normal co-pays and deductibles apply.

 

Neither Huntsman nor the plan will fund costs for cosmetic treatments or other elective procedures.

 

The current Healthcare Scheme provider is Aetna Global.  Huntsman retains the right to change the insurance providers or medical/dental/optical practitioners at any time.

 

5



 

10.0                         EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE SERVICES

 

To keep Assignees safe and healthy while living outside of their home country, you will be enrolled in a membership program through Europ Assistance.  Europ Assistance provides medical, security and logistical expertise to help safeguard our international travellers, expatriates and global workforce.

 

Europ Assistance will get in touch with Huntsman as needed, depending upon the situation, and can even communicate with your family members.

 

Please note that Huntsman retains the right to change providers at any time without notice.

 

11.0                         RELOCATION

 

11.1                         Transfer of Personal Effects

 

The Company will assist with transferring your personal effects to the Host Country.  Huntsman’s external relocation agent will provide you with shipping policy details and assist with any customs formalities required to transfer ‘allowable’ personal effects across international borders.

 

At the Company’s sole discretion, Huntsman reserves the right to deem personal effects as allowable or disallowable for shipment. Limitations apply.

 

At the end of your assignment, The Company will assist with transferring your personal effects back to your Home Country or on to a consecutive international assignment.  The same limitations apply for repatriation of your HHG.

 

11.2                         Relocation Allowance

 

At the start of your assignment, you will be paid a Relocation Allowance equal to 10% (net) of your current gross annual home salary as detailed on your salary Proforma.  The allowance will be paid by The Host Company together with your first Host Country salary payment.

 

The Relocation Allowance is intended to defray miscellaneous, incidental expenses in connection with your relocation, such as replacement of household items and equipment, small appliances, special clothing needs, additional quantities of toiletries or special foodstuffs, insurance, driver’s license fees for spouse or child(ren), day-care, or other miscellaneous costs, and other expenses solely at the employee’s discretion.  You will be responsible for using this allowance for incidental costs based on your needs.

 

At the end of your assignment, and on return to your home country or transfer to another country, you will again receive a relocation allowance equal to 10% (net) of your current gross annual home salary, as defined by your home payroll system, to be paid in your Home Country or new Host Country.

 

In some countries it may be necessary for you to provide proof of expenditure to tax authorities.  Some invoices and/or receipts must be kept for tax authority inspection for a minimum period, depending on the Home or Host Country Regulations.  If this evidence of expenditure is not provided, it may result in a personal tax liability to you.

 

6



 

If you resign from The Company before completing your assignment, you will not be eligible for the end of assignment payment of the Relocation Allowance.

 

12.0                         HOME LEAVE

 

The Host Company will provide you and your eligible family with one (1) home country return trip, for each twelve (12) months of your assignment (“assignment year”).  The timing of the home visits will be agreed by your Host Country Line Manager.  Home visits will be reported as vacation leave, and should not normally be taken during the first three (3) months or last three (3) months of the assignment for you or for your family.  The class of travel will be advanced purchase economy class airfare (no premium seating).

 

Alternatively, you may request a one-time lump sum Home Leave Allowance, subject to hypotax, that you can use in lieu of a Home Leave airfare reimbursement.  You may use this home leave allowance to fund additional trips home for your spouse, your children, or to travel to other locations.

 

The Company will not pay for hotel accommodations or for local rental cars or other transportation costs during your Home Leave stay in The Home Country.

 

Home leave may not be encashed.  Home leave is not accrued or pro-rated.  Home leave not utilized may not be carried forward.

 

Please ensure you retain all travel tickets, boarding passes and receipts for any necessary expense claim or tax reporting requirements.

 

13.0                         ACCOMMODATION WHILE ON ASSIGNMENT

 

13.1                         Temporary Accommodation

 

The Company will provide you with temporary living accommodations for up to 30 days (or until your household goods (HHG) shipment arrives, clears customs, and is prepared for delivery).   If self-catering facilities are not available in the temporary accommodation, you may claim reasonable subsistence expenses (reimbursed against receipts only).  It is expected that your transfer to longer term accommodation will be arranged as soon as your household goods arrive and are ready for delivery.  This arrangement will also apply on your return to The Home Country or upon transfer to another assignment.

 

13.2                         Long Term Accommodation

 

You will be provided with a suitable standard of long term accommodation in the Host Country, based on family size, Host Country market conditions and availability.  Rental costs and any related tax liabilities, within the host housing guidelines established by the host location, will be met by The Host Company.

 

13.3                         Utilities

 

If your immediate family members are joining you on assignment (spouse/ partner, child(ren)) the Host Country utilities that are not included in your lease and which are subject to Host Country norms will be your responsibility.

 

7



 

14.0                         TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS (Assignment Travel)

 

The Host Company will support the travel costs for you and for any eligible accompanying family members to and from the Host Country at the start and end of your assignment in accordance with the Huntsman Business Travel Policy.  Business travel guidelines and expense reporting policies will apply and govern your normal travel expenses, such as limitations for food, entertainment and receipt requirements.

 

15.0                         EDUCATION :

 

The Company will provide educational assistance to resident dependent children for mandatory education (e.g., grades K through 12).  The Company will reimburse actual tuition, registration/application fees, books and other mandatory items.  The following items may not be eligible for reimbursement:  school insurance, stationary/school supplies, transportation, field trips, computing equipment or other electronic calculators or technology, among others.

 

15.1                         EDUCATION TRAVEL

 

Full-time college students, under the age of 26, or non-resident children under the age of 18 residing with a custodial parent, will be eligible for three round-trip economy class airline tickets per each twelve (12) month period of your assignment, via the most direct route from Point of Origin to your assignment location.  This is intended for full-time college students and/or non-custodial children under the age of 18 who are still enrolled in high school to visit you.  Education travel not utilized will be forfeited Unused education travel does not accrue benefit.  Education travel may not be encashed nor may parents use children’s travel allocation as additional home leave trips.

 

16.0                         TRANSPORTATION

 

You will be provided with two (2) company cars suitable for your position/grade for use by you and your spouse (without “trade-up charge”) in the Host Country.

 

Tax assessment for car benefit(s) will be managed under Home Country gross to net salary calculations.

 

17.0                         DATA PRIVACY

 

Your personal information is treated in accordance with the Company’s global privacy policy.  As is stated in the policy, the Company collects, uses, and processes personal information, related to your employment, which includes your assignment.

 

In addition, the Company uses and processes the personal information of your dependents or accompanying family members, and will, as necessary and in connection with your mobilization to a new expatriate assignment, share your data and your dependent data with third party vendors.

 

18.0                         MAIL FORWARDING

 

You will be responsible for coordinating your personal mail with a trusted family member or friend, or arrange for a mail forwarding service through an independent party.  The Company will not be responsible for forwarding your personal mail.

 

8



 

19.0                         TERMINATION OF ASSIGNMENT

 

19.1                         The Home Company will notify you of your repatriation by giving you not less than three (3) months prior written notice.  You may terminate the assignment at any time by giving The Home Company no less than three (3) months prior written notice.

 

19.2                         On termination of your assignment, you will revert to the full terms of your Home Country contract of employment, subject to the following:

 

Upon repatriation to The Home Country, your annual Home base salary will not change from the annual home base salary paid to you at the end of your overseas assignment, which will be reflected in your final expatriate Proforma.

 

19.3                         Notwithstanding 19.1 above, The Home Company may, by notice in writing, terminate forthwith your assignment in any of the following events:

 

i)                                          If it is determined by The Company that for any reason you are unable to perform the essential functions of your job,

 

ii)                                       If you have violated The Company’s Business Conduct Guidelines and serious disciplinary action results, or

 

iii)                                    If by any reason of personal illness you are unable to carry out your duties for any time in excess of six months during any period of twelve months.

 

19.4                         On the termination of your assignment under this contract and in accordance with the terms specified in 19.1, 19.2 and 19.3 above, you wave, to the extent possible, any recovery with regards to this assignment 1) with respect to any rights conferred by the Host Country employment protection legislation, or ii) for a redundancy payment pursuant to that or benefits related legislation.

 

20.0                         LOCALIZATION

 

Assignment terms often run for only three (3) years and are not extended beyond five (5) years, the Company may discuss 1) transferring your employment to local Host Country terms ( localization), 2) repatriation to your home country (with or without a job), or 3) a new assignment to another location after your initial assignment period.  If you are interested in localizing in your Host Country or prefer one of the other options, you should engage your manager in a discussion in your 4 th  Assignment Year.

 

21.0                         SECRECY

 

You are reminded that during your assignment, and on return to The Home Country, the Huntsman confidentiality policy continues to apply.

 

22.0                         LAW

 

This agreement is governed by the employment laws that are applicable in USA.

 

If you would like to accept the offer of assignment based on the terms and conditions outline above, would you please sign and return the enclosed copy of this letter.

 

9



 

Yours sincerely,

 

 

Kevin Wilson

 

VP Human Resources

 

 


 

I have read, understood and accept the assignment and its terms and conditions to The Host Company.  I also acknowledge receipt of an electronic copy of the Long Term Assignment Briefing Document.

 

Signed

 

Date:

 

 

/s/ Kurt Ogden

 

 

July 11, 2017

Kurt Ogden

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enclosure: Salary Proforma

 

 

 

 

 

10




Exhibit 10.10

 

 

September 15, 2014

 

Jan Buberl

401 Brookgreen Drive

Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27516

 

Dear Jan,

 

On behalf of Huntsman International LLC (Huntsman), I am pleased to confirm the employment offer extended to you for the position of Vice President, Color Pigments, with responsibility for our Global Color Pigments segment. We are impressed with your qualifications and experience and it is our hope that you will accept this offer to join Huntsman,

 

This position will report to Simon Turner, Division President, Pigments. The specifics of our offer are as follows:

 

·                   Annual Base Salary :  $340,000 ($28,333.34 per month).

 

·                   Target Bonus :  40% of annual base (For 2014 only, we are prepared to guarantee, at a minimum, target payment of $136,000 not pro-rated).

 

·                   Initial Equity Award :  $500,000 - Distributed as follows: $250,000 in common stock (immediately vested), and $250,000 in restricted stock. The restricted stock will be subject to a three (3) year cliff vesting requirement. Number of shares based on the closing Fair Market Value of HUN stock on your first day of employment.

 

·                   Retirement Programs : Defined Contribution Plans -

 

·                   6% of pay (base and bonus). Delivered as a non-discretionary contribution to the 401(k) account. Combination of qualified and non-qualified plans.

 

Plus

 

·                   1 for 1 match up to 4% of pay (base and bonus). Delivered into the 401(k) account. Combination of qualified and non-qualified plans.

 

·                   Health Care, Accident and Sick, Life Insurance, etc. :  Eligible for the provisions contained in these plans. You will be provided five (5) years of service credit for purposes of calculating your Short Term Disability benefits.

 

10003 Woodloch Forest Drive, The Woodlands, Texas 77380
Tel.: 281-719-6000 Fax.: 281-719-6416 www.huntsman.com

 



 

·                   Vacation :  Four (4) weeks of paid vacation. In accordance with the Company policy, we will recognize 10 years of industry service credit starting this first calendar year of employment. During 2014, your vacation accrual will be pro rated based on the month in which you are hired.

 

·                   Executive Severance :  You will be covered under the Huntsman Executive Severance Plan and will retain this eligibility in a manner consistent with your peer officers.

 

·                   Transportation :  Your position will entitle you to a Company provided lease car.

 

·                   Relocation :  The Company will provide you with ifs Experienced Professional New Hire Program.

 

As a reminder, you will be subject to the terms and provisions of the aforementioned plans.

 

On your first day of employment you will be asked to complete a form I-9) (Employer Eligibility Verification), a copy of which is enclosed. Please bring with you one document from list A, or one document from list B and one document from list C, as described on the back of the enclosed form I-9. Huntsman does require that you provide your social security card on your first day of employment.

 

As a federal subcontractor, the Company has agreed to verify all new hires through the electronic verification of work authorization program (E-Verify) operated by the US Citizenship and Immigration Service. As a companion to the form I-9 process, all new hires will be verified within three days of hire. This process confirms that a new hire has provided accurate social security information and is eligible for employment.

 

This offer is contingent upon your execution of the Company’s Employee Assignment of Inventions and Confidentiality Agreement, no later than upon your first day of employment with Huntsman.

 

If you are in agreement with the above, please sign and date this offer letter, the Employee Assignment of Inventions and Confidentiality Agreement, and return copies to me as soon as possible via email. Please retain the originals and bring them with you on your first day of employment. It is our practice to advise prospective employees as to the employment relationship in that this letter does not constitute a contract of employment for any specified length or condition, and that you or Huntsman may terminate your employment at any time with or without cause.

 

We are delighted to make this offer of employment and look forward to you joining Huntsman as soon as possible. Please don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. This offer remains in effect for 4 business days.

 

2



 

Sincerely,

 

 

Wade Rogers

Senior Vice President, Global Human Resources

 

RWR/gf

Enclosures

 

 

I accept this offer of employment on 9/16/2014.

Date

 

/s/ Jan Buberl

 

Jan Buberl

 

 

3




Exhibit 10.11

 

 

Mahomed Maiter

Human Resources Department

 

Direct Tel : 01740 608 377

 

 

 

Our Ref : EP

 

 

 

global_hr_shared_services@venatorcorp.com

 

 

 

              2017

 

Form Of Contract of Employment

 

Dear Mahomed

 

This Agreement is made on              2017

 

Between:

 

Huntsman P&A UK Ltd (a subsidiary of Huntsman Corporation) of Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park, Stockton-on-Tees TS22 5FD United Kingdom (“the Company” )

 

Mahomed Maiter, 33 Hemingford Gardens, TS15 9ST Yarm (“You”) .

 

1.                           Preliminaries

 

1.1                                Employment means your employment under this Agreement.

 

1.2                                The Associate refers to the Employee.

 

1.3                                The Agreement means this Agreement.

 

1.4                                The group means the Company and all companies which are for the time being either a Holding Company of the Company or a Subsidiary Company of either the Company or any such Holding Company (Subsidiary Company and Holding Company shall have the meanings ascribed to them by Section 1159 of the Companies Act 2006 or any statutory modification or re-enactment thereof).

 

2.                           Commencement of Employment

 

2.1                               Your new terms and conditions will commence on 1 July 2017. As you are currently employed by Venator, your original start date of 1 February 1985 will count towards your continuous service.

 

2.2                                This agreement supersedes any other agreement in place before the date of signing of this agreement.

 

Venator , Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park, Stockton-on-Tees TS22 5FD, UK

Tel: +44 (0)1740 608001   Fax: +44 (0)1740 608241   info@venatorcorp.com   www.venatorcorp.com

 

Venator is a trading name of Huntsman P&A UK Limited. Registered Office: Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard Park, Stockton-on-Tees TS22 5FD UK. Registered in England No. 832447.

 



 

3.                           Duties

 

3.1                               The Company shall employ you in the capacity of Senior Vice President, White Pigments Business Unit.  In addition to the duties that this job normally entails you may from time to time be required to undertake additional or other duties as necessary to meet the needs of the Company’s business.

 

3.2                                You will be based on Teesside, UK.

 

3.3                                You will also be required to work at such other locations as the Company may reasonably require in line with the designated region allotted to your role.  This may include overseas travel.

 

3.4                               You will be reporting directly into the President & Chief Executive Officer.

 

4.                             Probationary Period

 

4.1                               Your position is not subject to a probationary period.

 

5.                           Remuneration

 

5.1                               The position has been evaluated at Grade 42 within our grading system.  Your salary will be £310,000  per annum and you will be paid in arrears in equal monthly instalments by credit transfer to a bank/building society account of your choice on or before the 25 th  day of each month.

 

5.2                                 You will be part of the next applicable annual performance and salary review process, which normally takes place in April.

 

5.3                                If applicable, you will be paid overtime in accordance with the provisions as detailed within the company’s policies and procedures. The company reserves the right to make amendments to clause 5.3 with reasonable notice.

 

5.4                                If your job role dictates overseas working, payments will be as detailed within the company’s policies and procedures. The company reserves the right to make amendments to clause 5.4 with reasonable notice.

 

6.                             Bonus scheme

 

6.1                               The Company operates a discretionary annual variable pay bonus scheme. The scheme has a target payout of 70% with the potential to earn up to a maximum of 140% of your annual salary as at 31 December of the bonus scheme year.  Payment is based on business performance against a set of Company and local criteria which will be issued to you upon commencement with the Company.

 

7.                           Hours of Work

 

7.1                                Your contractual hours are 37½ per week, however working hours are 38 per week.  This means that you work half an hour per week more than your contractual hours, which gives rise to 5 ‘rota days’ per annum.

 



 

7.2                                The Company operates flexible working arrangements.  Under these arrangements hours of work can be between 07:00 and 18:00 Monday to Friday.  Core hours are 09:30 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 15:30 with a minimum unpaid break of half an hour for lunch.

 

7.3                                At any time during your employment the Company may change your hours of work or the shift/shift pattern which you work upon providing you with, in all the circumstances, reasonable notice.

 

8.                           Pension Plan & Insured Benefits

 

8.1                                Your current Pension Plan and Insured Benefits will remain the same.

 

9.                           Holidays

 

9.1                                The holiday year runs from 1st January to 31st December and the full year’s entitlement is 32 days holiday (of which 5 constitute accrued ‘rota days’) plus Statutory holidays.

 

9.2                                On termination of your employment for whatever reason you shall be entitled to pay in lieu of holiday entitlement outstanding and shall be required to repay to the Company any salary received for holiday pay taken in excess of your actual entitlement (You agree that the amount of any overpayment can be deducted from your final salary and you agree that any payments still outstanding will be repayable to the Company as a debt upon demand).

 

9.3                                The value of the accrued but outstanding holiday entitlement or excess holiday entitlement shall be calculated as detailed within the company’s policies and procedures. The company reserves the right to make amendments to clause 9.3 with reasonable notice.

 

10.                    Benefits

 

10.1                         The Company offers membership of the Cigna Health Care Scheme to all its employees.  Please note that HM Revenue & Customs regards this as a taxable benefit, and you will therefore be taxed on the value of this benefit.

 

10.2                         In this position you will be eligible for a Company Car.  Details of the Company Car Scheme are available from our Compensation & Benefits Team.  A cash alternative is also available.  The current rate is £13,000.

 

11.                    Sickness

 

11.1                         You may be entitled to sick pay as detailed within the company’s policies and procedures. The company reserves the right to make amendments to this clause with reasonable notice.

 

11.2                         Sick pay is considered an additional benefit and payment is at the discretion of Senior management.

 

11.3                         For the purposes of statutory sick pay your qualifying days are Monday to Friday.

 



 

12.                    Termination and Period of Notice

 

12.1                         Your notice period to the company is three months and the notice the Company will give you is twelve months.

 

12.2                         The Company may terminate your Employment without notice in the event of any gross negligence or gross misconduct in connection with or affecting the business of the Company, including any conduct, which in the opinion of the Company, brings the Company into disrepute.

 

12.3                         On termination of your Employment you undertake to return to the Company all correspondence, documents, memoranda, notes, records (including any contained in magnetic media or other forms of computer storage) videos, tapes and other information or copies thereof which are in your possession or control which relate to the business or affairs of the Company or the business and affairs of the Company’s customers and/or suppliers. Before returning the above to the Company you shall not permit the same to be used by any party whatsoever before being returned to the Company and you will not make or retain any copies thereof without limitation. You will also deliver up to the Company, in a good roadworthy condition, any car provided by the Company in connection with your Employment.

 

12.4                         You expressly agree that the Company may make such deductions from your salary or other payments due to you on the termination of your Employment as may be necessary to reimburse the Company for any monies owed by you to the Company, including but not limited to, advances of salary, loans, relocation expenses, excess holiday payments, any unauthorised mobile phone calls and any unauthorised or unreasonable business expenses including mileage claims.

 

12.5                         Upon notice to terminate your Employment being given by the Company or you, then at any time after such notice is given, if requested by the Company you will:

 

·                               Immediately return all Company property in accordance with clause 12.3;

 

·                               Not, during the notice period, contact or deal with customers, suppliers or employees of the Company;

 

·                               Not, unless otherwise requested during the notice period, enter onto the premises of the Company without the prior written consent of the Human Resources Manager.

 

12.6                         For the avoidance of doubt you and the Company agree that:

 

·                               Subject to clause 12.6 your other duties and obligations, whether contractual or otherwise, shall continue in full force and effect during the notice period;

 

·                               For the avoidance of doubt the Company has no duty to provide you with work during the notice period; and

 

·                               You will not commence any other employment or engagement during the notice period, whether or not the Company has exercised its right under clause 12.6.

 

12.7                         In the event that the Company exercises its rights under clause 12.6 above then the period spent between the Company exercising such rights and the expiry of the notice period shall be set-off against and therefore reduce the restrictive periods set out in clause 15.2 and 15.3 of this Agreement.

 



 

13.                    Intellectual Property Rights

 

13.1                         You will promptly disclose to the Company and keep confidential all inventions, designs, copyright works, ideas, products, process, improvements, design, software development, or any other development (“the Intellectual Property”) devised by or originated by you on your own or with others in the course of your Employment or in connection with or in any way affecting or relating to the business of the Company or capable of being used or adapted for use therein or in connection therewith shall forthwith be disclosed to the Company and shall belong to and be the absolute property of the Company or such other persons as the Company may require.  The copyright in any material written by you in the course of your Employment shall vest in the Company and the Company shall have the sole right to licence such Intellectual Property rights and to receive any royalties that might arise there from.

 

13.2                         In the event of termination of your Employment with the Company, you shall not be entitled to use the aforesaid Intellectual Property rights except under licence from the Company.  The Company will have sole discretion as to whether it is willing to grant you a licence.

 

13.3                         You will provide the Company with full details and information with regard to any of the matters specified in the preceding sub-clauses 13.1 and 13.2 and will if necessary, at the Company’s expense, apply or join with the Company in applying for the appropriate protection of such matters in the United Kingdom or in any other part of the world.

 

14.                    Additional Work

 

14.1                         In the event that you undertake additional regular paid or unpaid work, you must first obtain approval from the Company. Regular work is deemed by the Company to be work carried out on a minimum of a weekly basis. In the interests of Zero Harm, any additional regular work is to be reviewed by Management and HR on a case by case basis to ensure that such activities do not prevent you from performing your duties under this agreement or are likely to impact on such duties.

 

14.2                         Additional work outside the Company should not be undertaken if this is, or could be deemed to be, a Conflict of Interest.

 

15.                    Restrictions on Canvassing and Soliciting

 

15.1                         You acknowledge that following the termination of your Employment you will be in a position to compete unfairly with the Company as a result of confidential information, trade secrets and knowledge about the business, operation, customers, employees and trade connections of the Company you will have acquired and through connections you will have developed. You therefore agree to enter into the restrictions in this clause 15 for the purpose of protecting the Company’s legitimate business interests and in particular the confidential information, goodwill and the stable trained workforce of the Company.

 

15.2                         You undertake that you will not at any time after the termination of your Employment hold yourself out as being in any way connected with the Company or use a name which is identical or similar to or likely to be confused with the name of the Company or which might suggest a connection with the Company or any of its services or products.

 



 

15.3                         You undertake that you will not after the termination of your Employment (except with the written consent of the Board) directly or indirectly on your own account or as agent, partner, director or employee of any other person, firm or company or otherwise:

 

15.3.1                           for the period of 6 months following such termination solicit or canvass the custom of any Customer;

 

15.3.2                           for the period of 6 months following such termination solicit or canvass the custom of any Potential Customer;

 

15.3.3                           for the period of 6 months following such termination deal with any Customer;

 

15.3.4                           for the period of 6 months following such termination deal with any Potential Customer;

 

15.3.5                           for the period of 6 months following such termination solicit or entice away, or attempt to entice away from the Company any Restricted Employee;

 

15.3.6                           for the period of 6 months following such termination employ, offer to employ or enter into partnership with any Restricted Employee;

 

15.3.7                           for the period of 2 months following such termination seek to interfere with the continuance of supplies or services to the Company (or the terms of such supplies) from any supplier who shall have been supplying components or materials or services at any time during the period of one year prior to the date of such termination;

 

15.3.8                           for the period of 6 months following such termination be engaged, concerned or interested, whether as a director, employee, principal, agent or otherwise, in any Competitive Business provided always that this clause shall not restrain you from being engaged or concerned in any business concern in so far as your duties or work shall relate solely and exclusively:

 

15.3.8.1                        to geographical areas where the business concerned is not in competition with the Company; or

 

15.3.8.2                        to services or activities of a kind with which you were not concerned to a material extent during your Employment with the Company.

 

15.3.9                           Each of the restrictions in this clause 15 are intended to be separate and severable.  In the event that any of the restrictions shall be held void but would be valid if part of the wording thereof were deleted such restriction shall apply with such deletion as may be necessary to make it valid and effective.

 

15.3.10                    Each of the restrictions in this clause are considered by the parties to be reasonable in all the circumstances. Each of sub-clauses 15.3.1 to 15.3.8 constitutes an entirely separate and independent restriction and the duration, extent and application of each of the restrictions are no greater than is necessary for the protection of the interests of the Company.

 

15.3.11                    In this clause 15 the following words and phrases shall have the following meanings:

 



 

15.3.12                    “Competitive Business” shall mean any business or operation involved in activities or industry that Venator are currently operating.

 

15.3.13                    “Customer” shall mean any person, firm or company who at the date of termination of your Employment or at any time during the 12 months immediately prior to such termination was a customer of the Company from whom you obtained business on behalf of the Company, or to whom you provided or arranged the provision of goods or services on behalf of the Company, or for whom you had management responsibility for.

 

15.3.14                    “Potential Customer” shall mean any person, firm or company who at the date of termination of your Employment or at any time during the 3 months immediately prior to such termination, you, or someone you had management responsibility for, had carried out negotiations on behalf of the Company with a view to such person, firm or Company becoming a customer of the Company.

 

15.3.15                    “Restricted Employee” shall mean any employee of the Company employed at the date of termination of your Employment in the capacity of director or in any research, technical, IT, financial, marketing or sales function or other managerial role whom you managed or with whom you worked at any time during 12 months preceding the termination of your Employment and shall not include any employee employed in an administrative, clerical, manual or secretarial capacity.

 

16.                    Confidentiality

 

16.1                         You undertake that you will not at any time during your Employment (except so far as is necessary and proper in the course of your Employment) or at any time after your Employment has terminated make use of, or disclose to any person any trade secrets of confidential information as to the practice, business dealings or affairs of the Company and / or the Group or any of the Company’s customers or clients or suppliers or as to any other matters which may have come to your knowledge by reason of your Employment.  This restriction shall continue to apply after the termination of your Employment without limit in point of time but shall cease to apply to information ordered to be disclosed by a Court of competent jurisdiction or otherwise required to be disclosed by law.  For the purpose of this clause confidential information shall include but shall not be limited to:-

 

·                   Business methods and information

·                   Customer lists, customer contact names, supplier lists and details of individual contacts at such suppliers Details and terms of agreements with suppliers and customers

·                   Secret manufacturing or production processes and know-how

·                   Details of the design of inventions or developments relating to future products

·                   Profit margins

·                   Services prices and structures

·                   Personnel details and files

·                   Any document or information marked private and confidential

·                   Future strategy and plans

·                   All non public financial information

·                   Quality procedures and manuals

·                   Software packages

·                   Standard operating procedures

 



 

·                   Methodology and validating information and procedures

 

16.2                         The Company receives during the course of its business, information relating to the business or otherwise of its customers or the customers of the Group. The Company receives such information upon the basis that it will remain confidential.  You undertake at all times during and after your Employment to keep secret, except to the extent that disclosure is authorised by the Company and to use only for the purposes of the Company, all information of whatsoever kind whether or not, in the case of documents, they are marked as confidential, which relate to the business or otherwise of the Company’s and / or the Group customers.

 

16.3                         On termination of your Employment you undertake to return to the Company all such documents, letters or information or copies thereof which may be in your possession or control which relate to the business or affairs of the Company and / or the Group or the business and affairs of the Company’s and / or the Group’s customers and/ or suppliers.

 

16.4                         You agree that if you apply for or are offered new employment, appointment or engagement, before entering into any related contract you will notify the third party proposing directly or indirectly to employ, appoint or engage you of the provisions of this clause 16 and the above clause 13 and 15 of this Agreement.

 

16.5                         At any point during your employment the Company reserves the right to request you to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. By signing this contract you agree to these checks and to accurately supply correct information in order for the Company to complete DBS checks in addition to providing the HR Department with requested proofs and identification in order to complete DBS checks. You will also be required to complete subsequent annual DBS checks for the remaining term of your employment.

 

17.                    Grievance Procedure

 

17.1                         Any grievance relating to your Employment should be raised by you in accordance with the grievance procedure.

 

17.2                         Your line of authority for grievance is:-

 

17.2.1               President & Chief Executive Officer

 

18.                    Disciplinary Procedure

 

18.1                         Discipline will normally be imposed by the Company in accordance with the provisions of the Company Procedure.

 

19.                    Expenses

 

19.1                         The Company shall reimburse to you all reasonable expenses wholly exclusively and necessarily incurred by you in or about the performance of your duties upon appropriate receipts or other evidence being provided to the Company provided that all such expenses are authorised in advance by the Company.

 

20.                    Drug & Alcohol Abuse Policy

 

20.1                         The Company operates a Drug & Alcohol Abuse Policy which has a random testing Clause, along with the right to test following a works incident that Management and the

 



 

EHS and HR Manager feels it appropriate to do so.

 

21.                      Right to Search

 

21.1                         As part of the Company’s security procedures, all employees may be searched by an authorised person.  Under the right to search procedure, any such search will be in line with policy and failure to co-operate fully may be dealt with under the Company’s Disciplinary Procedure.

 

22.                    Miscellaneous

 

22.1                         Deductions
You authorise the Company at any time during your Employment, or in the event of termination of your Employment, to deduct from your salary any overpayment made and/or monies owed to the Company by you including, but not limited to, any outstanding loans, any excess holiday or advances.  If you incur any debt or liability to the Company then you agree that the Company may deduct such sum or sums from your salary as may be necessary until that debt is repaid or liability discharged.

 

22.2                         Corporate Identity Work Wear & Tools
Where Corporate Identity work wear is provided, the Company will replace them as fair wear and tear dictates.  Employees abusing work wear will be expected to pay for replacements and the cost will be deducted from the employee’s wages.

 

Employees are responsible for their corporate identity work wear, and are expected to maintain a smart appearance at all times.

 

The Company will provide all tools necessary to carry out the relevant job function and will replace free of charge items damaged through fair wear and tear.  Staff will be responsible for the cost of replacing items lost or damaged through carelessness.

 

22.3                         Changes to your Terms and Conditions of Employment

 

22.3.1                           The Company reserves the right to make reasonable changes to any of the terms and conditions of Employment including but not limited to your hours of work, place of work and duties.  Your salary and/or benefits may be amended as a result of any such changes.

 

22.3.2                           Any minor changes of detail will be notified by way of a general notice to all employees.  Any such changes will take effect from the date of the notice.

 

22.3.3                           You authorise the Company at any time during your Employment, or in the event of termination of your Employment, to deduct from your salary any overpayment made and/or monies owed to the Company by you including, but not limited to, any outstanding loans, any excess holiday or advances.  If you incur any debt or liability to the Company then you agree that the Company may deduct such sums or sums from your salary as may be necessary until that debt is repaid or liability discharged.

 

22.3.4                           Your Employment and this Agreement will be governed by English law.

 



 

23.                    Acceptance:

 

23.1             If you wish to accept this contract of employment and the conditions stated therein, please sign below and return one copy of this contract no later than 14 July , marked for the attention of Louise Rowcroft, Venator, Titanium House, Hanzard Drive, Wynyard, TS22 5FD.  Alternatively a signed copy can be emailed to global_hr_shared_services@venatorcorp.com  Please note if this contract is not accepted and returned by the above date the contract is rescinded.  Please retain the second copy for your records.

 

Yours sincerely

 

 

HR Shared Services Manager

 

 

Signed:

 

 

Date:

 

 

 

Signed in acceptance of the forgoing terms and conditions.

 




Exhibit 10.12

 

FORM OF

VENATOR MATERIALS

EXECUTIVE SEVERANCE PLAN

 

ARTICLE I
The Plan

 

1.1  Name .   The VENATOR MATERIALS EXECUTIVE SEVERANCE PLAN (“ Plan ”) is hereby adopted effective as of                 , 2017 (the “ Effective Date” ).

 

1.2  Purpose .   Venator Materials PLC, a public company limited by shares and incorporated under the laws of England and Wales,  and certain Affiliates identified below have adopted the Plan to provide certain of their executives and other employees with severance benefits to recognize their service to the Employer, and to encourage them to continue employment with the Employer.

 

ARTICLE II
Definitions

 

Whenever used in the Plan, the following words and phrases shall have the meanings set forth below unless the context plainly requires a different meaning. When the defined meaning is intended, the term is capitalized.

 

2.1  “ Affiliate ”  means any entity (whether a corporation, partnership, joint venture, limited liability company or other entity) in which the Employer beneficially owns 50% or more of the voting power of the entity, and any other entity in which the Employer has an economic interest and which is designated as an Affiliate by the Committee for purposes of the Plan.

 

2.2  “ Base Compensation ”  means the annualized base salary of the Participant in effect at Termination of Employment.

 

2.3  “ Board ”  means the Board of Directors of Venator Materials PLC or its successor.

 

2.4  “ Change of Control ”  means the occurrence of any of the events set forth in clause (b) of the definition of “Change of Control” in the Venator Materials 2017 Stock Incentive Plan, as amended, restated or otherwise modified from time to time.

 

2.5  “ COBRA ”  means the Consolidated Omnibus Reconciliation Act of 1985, as amended.

 

2.6  “ Committee ”  means the Compensation Committee of the Board or, if there is not a Compensation Committee, then the Board.

 

2.7  “ Employer ”  means Venator Materials PLC, or any successor thereof.

 



 

In addition, unless the context indicates otherwise, as used in the Plan, the term “Employer” shall also mean and include any Affiliate of Venator Materials PLC that has adopted the Plan with the permission of Venator Materials PLC and any Affiliate that has been designated by Venator Materials PLC as an Employer in the Plan. Such adoptions and designations shall be subject to such conditions as the Committee deems appropriate. The obligations of an Employer hereunder shall be limited to the employees of that Employer participating in the Plan.

 

The following Affiliates of Venator Materials PLC are participating in the Plan as of the Effective Date:

 

Huntsman P&A Americas LLC

Huntsman P&A Germany GmbH

Huntsman P&A UK Ltd.

 

2.8  “ Family Member ”  of an employee means: (a) a brother or sister (whether by whole or half-blood) of the employee, (b) the spouse of the employee, (c) an ancestor or lineal descendant of the employee, or (d) the spouse of anyone included in (a) or (c).

 

2.9  “ Participant ”  means an employee of the Employer who is designated to participate in the Plan by the Committee; provided however, unless the Committee provides otherwise with respect to a particular employee, an employee with the title of Vice President or higher of an Employer shall be deemed as designated to participate in the Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Committee shall have the authority to adjust the status of any employee (including the removal of an employee from participation under the Plan or to change the class to which the employee belongs for purposes of the Plan).

 

The Committee may, subject to any applicable law, regulatory, securities exchange or other similar restrictions, delegate to one or more officers of the Employer, the authority to adjust the status of any employee as described above, other than an employee who is subject to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act or who is a Family Member of an employee who is subject to Section 16(b) of the Exchange Act. The Committee may impose such limitations and restrictions on its delegation of authority, in addition to any required restrictions or limitations set forth in the Plan, as it may determine in its sole discretion. Any adjustment of status made pursuant to such a delegation shall be subject to all of the provisions of the Plan.

 

2.10  “ Plan Year ”  means the calendar year.

 

2.11  “ Reasonable Cause ”  means any of the following, with respect to a Participant:

 

(a)  Gross negligence, fraud, dishonesty or willful violation of any law or material violation of any significant Employer policy committed in connection with the position of the Participant with the Employer or an Affiliate; or

 

(b)  Failure to substantially perform (whether as a result of a medically determinable disability or otherwise) the duties reasonably assigned or appropriate to his or her position, in a manner reasonably consistent with prior practice;

 



 

provided, however, that the term “Reasonable Cause” shall not include ordinary negligence or failure to act, whether due to an error in judgment or otherwise, if the Participant has exercised substantial efforts in good faith to perform the duties reasonably assigned or appropriate to his or her position.

 

2.12  “ Severance Benefits ”  means the benefits described in Article III.

 

2.13  “ Termination of Employment ”  means the Participant’s “separation from service,” within the meaning of Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), for any reason whatsoever, voluntary or involuntary, including by reason of death or disability.

 

2.14  “ Termination for Good Reason ”  means a voluntary Termination of Employment by the Participant as a result of the Employer or an Affiliate (a) making a materially detrimental reduction or change to the job responsibilities or in the current base compensation of the Participant, or (b) within a period of 12 months following a Change of Control, changing the Participant’s principal place of work by more than 50 miles from his or her principal place of work in effect immediately prior to such Change of Control, in each case, which action has not been remedied by the Employer or Affiliate within 30 days following its receipt of written notice from the Participant of such reduction or change. Such notice from the Participant must be given to the Employer or an Affiliate within 90 days following the occurrence of such reduction or change and the Participant’s Termination of Employment must occur within the 30-day period following the Employer’s or an Affiliate’s failure to timely remedy the change or reduction constituting a “good reason.”

 

ARTICLE III
Severance Benefits

 

3.1   Entitlement to Severance Benefits .  If the Employer or an Affiliate terminates the Participant’s employment without Reasonable Cause or the Participant terminates his or her employment in a Termination for Good Reason, then the Participant’s Employer shall provide to the Participant the Severance Benefits described in this Article III.  No Severance Benefits shall be payable under the Plan upon the Participant’s Termination of Employment for any other reason, including a Termination of Employment on account of death or disability.

 

(a)  Severance Benefits otherwise payable under this Article III to a Participant shall be reduced in the discretion of Venator Materials PLC for any payments an Employer or an Affiliate is required to pay to the Participant under any applicable statute, law, ordinance, code, rule or regulation arising from the Termination of Employment, including any payments required under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act.

 

(b)  Unless otherwise agreed to in writing by Venator Materials PLC, a Participant shall not be entitled to any Severance Benefits under this Article III if any of the following situations apply:

 



 

(1)  Within 30 days of the Termination of Employment, the Participant obtains employment with an Employer or any Affiliate of an Employer;

 

(2)  If requested upon his or her Termination of Employment, the Participant fails to sign, within 45 days following his or her Termination of Employment, a waiver and release of claims against the Employer and its Affiliates and other persons, in the form provided by the Plan’s Administrator (as defined in Section 5.1), or, if applicable, the Participant signs and later revokes the waiver and release of claims within the revocation time period; or

 

(3)  The Participant is entitled to severance or other separation benefits, whether under an individual written agreement with the Participant’s Employer or an Affiliate, any voluntary early retirement program maintained by the Employer or an Affiliate, any severance plan maintained by the Employer or an Affiliate, or any provision of law to which the Employer or an Affiliate is subject, other than the Plan, unless such Participant, in connection with receipt of benefits under the Plan, irrevocably waives all such benefits under all other contracts, plans, programs and provisions of law applicable to the Participant.

 

3.2   Amount of Benefits .  If a Participant is entitled to Severance Benefits pursuant to Section 3.1:

 

(a)    Cash Payment .  The Participant’s Employer shall pay to the Participant a lump sum cash payment in an amount as follows:

 

(1)  For a Senior Executive (i.e., a Participant at the level of Senior Vice President or above), an amount equal to two times the Base Compensation of the Participant; and

 

(2)  For a Participant not a Senior Executive (i.e. a Participant at the level of Vice President or below), an amount equal to one and one-half times the Base Compensation of the Participant;

 

Subject to Section 3.1(b)(2) and Section 7.6, payment shall be made within 60 days of the Participant’s Termination of Employment.

 

(b)   Healthcare Benefits for U.S. Participants .  For the period of time (expressed as a number of months equal to the product of (i) 12 and (ii) the quotient obtained by dividing the cash payment payable to the Participant under Section 3.2(a) by his or her Base Compensation) (the “ Continuation Period ”), the Participant’s Employer or an Affiliate shall continue to cover a U.S.-based Participant and his or her dependents under the group healthcare plan covering other employees in positions similar to that of the Participant, at a monthly cost to the Participant equal to the applicable COBRA premium for such coverage.

 

(1)   Healthcare Coverage Payment .  The Employer shall pay to the U.S.-based Participant a lump sum cash amount equal to the product of (i) the Participant’s Continuation Period, (ii) the COBRA premium applicable to the

 



 

Participant on his or her Termination of Employment, and (iii) 150%. Subject to Section 3.1(b)(2) and Section 7.6, payment shall be made within 60 days of the Participant’s Termination of Employment.

 

(2)   COBRA Continuation .  To receive the coverage and payment provided under this Section 3.2(b) of the Plan following the Participant’s Termination of Employment, the Participant must timely elect continuation coverage under COBRA, as a result of the Termination of Employment.

 

(c)   Outplacement Services .  The Participant’s Employer shall provide the Participant with the following outplacement counseling service opportunity:

 

(1)  For a Senior Executive, executive outplacement services, as chosen by the Plan’s Administrator, for a period of 12 months following the Termination of Employment or until the Participant obtains substantially comparable employment, if earlier.

 

(2)  For a Participant not a Senior Executive, executive outplacement services, as chosen by the Plan’s Administrator, for a period of 6 months following the Termination of Employment or until the Participant obtains substantially comparable employment, if earlier.

 

(d)   Time of Payment .  It is intended that the Severance Benefits not be subject to Section 409A of the Code. If, however, a payment or benefit is determined to be subject to Section 409A of the Code or payment is conditioned on a Participant’s execution (and non-revocation within the time provided to do so) of a waiver and release of claims as provided in Section 3.1(b)(2), then such payment will be made on the 60th day following the Termination of Employment.

 

3.3   Terminated Status .  Commencing upon the Participant’s Termination of Employment, the Participant shall cease to be an employee of the Employer and all Affiliates for all purposes. The payment of the Severance Benefits under the Plan shall be payments to a former employee.

 

ARTICLE IV
Claims and Review Procedures

 

4.1   Claims Procedure .  A Participant who believes he or she has not received the Severance Benefits to which the Participant is entitled under the Plan may make a claim for benefits by making a written request for benefits to the Administrator on the form provided by the Administrator. The Administrator shall notify the Participant or beneficiary (the “c laimant ”) in writing, within a reasonable period of time (but not later than 90 days) after receipt of his or her written request for benefits, of his or her eligibility or non-eligibility for benefits under the Plan.  If the Administrator determines that a claimant is not eligible for benefits or full benefits, the notice shall set forth (1) the specific reasons for such denial, (2) a specific reference to the provisions of the Plan on which the denial is based, (3) a description of any additional information or material necessary for the claimant to perfect his or her claim, and a description

 



 

of why it is needed, and (4) an explanation of the Plan’s claims review procedure and other appropriate information as to the steps to be taken if the claimant wishes to have the claim reviewed, including a statement of the Participant’s right to bring a civil action under section 502(a) of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended (“ ERISA ”), following a benefit claim denial on review. If the Administrator determines that there are special circumstances requiring additional time to make a decision, the Administrator may extend the time for up to an additional 90 day period, provided the Administrator notifies the claimant prior to the end of the initial 90 day period of the special circumstances and the date by which a decision is expected to be made.

 

4.2   Review Procedure .  If a claimant is determined by the Administrator not to be eligible for benefits, or if the claimant believes that he or she is entitled to greater or different benefits, the claimant shall have the opportunity to have such claim reviewed by the Employer by filing a petition for review with the Committee within 60 days after receipt of the notice issued by the Administrator.  A claimant shall, on request and free of charge, be given reasonable access to and copies of, any documents, records and other information in the possession of the Employer relevant to the claimant’s claim for benefits.  The petition shall state the specific reasons which the claimant believes entitle him or her to benefits or to greater or different benefits.  Within 60 days after receipt by the Employer of the petition, the Employer shall notify the claimant of its decision in writing, stating specifically (1) the basis of its decision, written in a manner calculated to be understood by the claimant (2) the specific provisions of the Plan on which the decision is based, (3) that the Participant is entitled to receive, upon request and free of charge, reasonable access to, and copies of, the Plan and all documents, records, and other information relevant to the Participant’s claim for benefits, and (4) that the Participant has a right to bring an action under section 502(a) of ERISA.  If the Employer determines that the 60 day period is not sufficient, the decision may be deferred for up to another 60 day period, but notice of this deferral shall be given to the claimant.  In the event of the death of a claimant, the same procedures shall apply to the claimant’s beneficiaries.

 

ARTICLE V
Administration and Finances

 

5.1   Administration .  The Plan shall be administered by the Committee or the person or entity designated by the Committee to administer the Plan (the “ Administrator ”).

 

5.2   Powers of the Administrator .  The Administrator shall have all powers necessary to administer the Plan, including, without limitation, powers:

 

(a) to interpret the provisions of the Plan;

 

(b) to establish and revise the method of accounting for the Plan; and

 

(c) to establish and enforce rules for the administration of the Plan and to prescribe any forms required to administer the Plan.

 

It is intended that the Plan will be administered and interpreted in a manner that benefits provided by the Plan do not become taxable to a Participant until such benefits are paid to the

 



 

Participant.  To the extent of a change in the law (whether by a change in the applicable statutes or by a ruling, regulation or other interpretation of the law by regulatory authorities) that requires a change in the terms of the Plan to avoid taxation prior to receipt of benefits, the Plan shall be treated by the Administrator to include such change without further action by the Employer as the Administrator in its sole discretion shall determine, provided, however, any such change that would materially increase either the cost of the Plan or the benefits provided by the Plan shall require the written consent of the Employer.

 

5.3   Actions of the Administrator or the Employer .  All determinations, interpretations, rules, and decisions of the Administrator and the Employer shall be conclusive and binding upon all persons having or claiming to have any interest or right under the Plan.

 

5.4   Delegation .  The Administrator shall have the power to delegate specific duties and responsibilities to officers or other employees of the Employer or other individuals or entities.  Any delegation by the Administrator may allow further delegations by the individual or entity to whom the delegation is made. Any delegation may be rescinded by the Administrator at any time.  Each person or entity to whom a duty or responsibility has been delegated shall be responsible for the exercise of such duty or responsibility and shall not be responsible for any act or failure to act of any other person or entity.

 

5.5   Reports and Records .  The Administrator and those to whom the Administrator has delegated duties under the Plan shall keep records of all their proceedings and actions and shall maintain books of account, records, and other data as shall be necessary for the proper administration of the Plan and for compliance with applicable law.

 

5.6   Finances .  The benefits under the Plan are unfunded.  The costs of the Plan shall be borne by the Employer from its general assets; provided, however, an Affiliate that adopts the Plan and becomes an Employer shall be responsible only for the Severance Benefits that are payable to those Participants who are employees of such Affiliate and, with respect to an Affiliate that is designated as an Employer, Venator Materials PLC shall be responsible for the Severance Benefits that are payable to Participants who are employees of such designated Affiliate, unless the Severance Benefits are paid by that Affiliate.

 

5.7  Notices .  All notices and communications made by the Employer or the Administrator under the Plan shall be deemed delivered and received when delivered by hand, the next business day after deposit with a courier or overnight delivery service post paid for next-day delivery and addressed in accordance with the last address in the records of the Employer, or five days after being mailed by certified or registered mail, return receipt requested, with appropriate postage prepaid to the last address in the records of the Employer, or immediately upon delivery by facsimile if confirmation is received and retained.

 

ARTICLE VI
Amendments and Termination

 

Venator Materials PLC, by action of the Committee, may amend or terminate the Plan at any time.  In the event the Plan is terminated or changed, no benefits shall be payable to any

 



 

Participant thereafter (except for Severance Benefits payable to a Participant whose Termination of Employment occurred prior to such termination or change of the Plan) or except as provided by the Plan as changed.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Plan may not be amended or terminated within six months prior to, or on or within one year following, a Change of Control to adversely affect the rights (contingent or otherwise) of any then-current Participant to Severance Benefits under the Plan, including, without limitation, any amendment that would terminate an employee’s designation as a Participant in the Plan.

 

ARTICLE VII
Miscellaneous

 

7.1   No Guarantee of Employment .  The adoption and maintenance of the Plan shall not be deemed to be a contract of employment between the Employer and any Participant. Nothing contained herein shall give any Participant the right to continue to be retained by the Employer or to interfere with the right of the Employer to terminate the employment of a Participant at any time, nor shall it give the Employer the right to require the Participant to continue to provide services to the Employer or to interfere with the Participant’s right to terminate services at any time.

 

7.2   Tax Withholding .  The Employer shall withhold all taxes that are required to be withheld by applicable law from the benefits provided under the Plan.

 

7.3   Non-Alienation .  The Plan shall inure to and be binding on the successors and assigns of the Employer.  No benefit payable at any time under the Plan shall be subject in any manner to alienation, sale, transfer, assignment, pledge, attachment, or encumbrance of any kind.

 

7.4   ERISA .  The Plan is intended to be and shall be administered and maintained as a welfare benefit plan under section 3(1) of ERISA, providing certain benefits to participants on severance from employment.  The Plan is not intended to be a pension plan under section 3(2)(A) of ERISA and shall be maintained and administered so as not to be such a plan.  The Plan is intended to come within, and shall be administered and maintained to come within, the severance pay plan exception thereto in DOL Regulation Section 2510.3-2(b).

 

7.5   Applicable Law .  The Plan and all rights hereunder shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of Delaware, except to the extent such laws are preempted by the laws of the United States of America.

 

7.6   Section 409A .  If any Participant is a “specified employee,” as defined in Section 409A of the Code and the regulations thereunder, at the time of his or her Termination of Employment and a payment due hereunder does not qualify as a “short-term deferral” payment under Section 409A or as a separation payment upon an involuntary separation that is exempt from the Section 409A six-month delay in payment provisions, then such payment (or part thereof that does not so qualify) shall not be paid to the Participant until the first business day that is more than six months after his or her Termination of Employment date (or, if earlier, his or her date of death). Such delayed payment shall be made in a lump sum without interest.

 

[Remainder of Page Intentionally Blank]

 



 

SPONSOR:

VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[NAME]

 

[TITLE]

 

 

Adopted By:

HUNTSMAN P&A AMERICAS LLC

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[NAME]

 

[TITLE]

 

 

 

 

Adopted By:

HUNTSMAN P&A GERMANY GMBH

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[NAME]

 

[TITLE]

 

 

 

 

Adopted By:

HUNTSMAN P&A UK LTD.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[NAME]

 

[TITLE]

 




Exhibit 21.1

 

SUBSIDIARIES OF VENATOR MATERIALS PLC

 

Subsidiary

 

Jurisdiction

Huntsman Specialties Australia Pty Ltd

 

Australia

Huntsman Pigments and Trading Pty Ltd

 

Australia

Huntsman Materials Belgium BVBA

 

Belgium

Huntsman P&A Canada Inc.

 

Canada

Huntsman P&A Investments LLC

 

Cayman Islands

Changshu Rockwood Pigments Co., Ltd.

 

China

Huntsman Pigments Taicang Company Ltd

 

China

Sachtleben Trading (Shanghai) Company Limited

 

China

Huntsman Pigments Far East Limited

 

Hong Kong, China

Huntsman Pigments Hong Kong Limited

 

Hong Kong, China

Huntsman P&A Finland Oy

 

Finland

Holliday France S.A.S.

 

France

Holliday Pigments International S.A.S.

 

France

Holliday Pigments S.A.S.

 

France

Huntsman P&A France SAS

 

France

Brockhues GmbH & Co. KG

 

Germany

Huntsman (Holdings) Germany GmbH

 

Germany

Huntsman P&A Germany GmbH

 

Germany

Huntsman P&A Uerdingen GmbH

 

Germany

Huntsman P&A Wasserchemie GmbH

 

Germany

Huntsman Pigments Holding GmbH

 

Germany

Sachtleben Wasserchemie (Holding) GmbH

 

Germany

Silo Pigmente GmbH

 

Germany

Huntsman P&A Italy S.r.l.

 

Italy

Huntsman Pigments S.p.A.

 

Italy

Nuodex Italiana S.r.l

 

Italy

Venator Finance S.à r.l.

 

Luxembourg

Huntsman P & A Asia Sdn. Bhd.

 

Malaysia

Pacific Iron Products Sdn Bhd

 

Malaysia

Huntsman Textile Effects Singapore Pte. Ltd.

 

Singapore

Huntsman P&A Africa (Pty) Limited

 

South Africa

Huntsman Investments South Africa (Proprietary) Limited

 

South Africa

Holliday Chemical España S.A.U.

 

Spain

Huntsman P&A Spain S.L.U.

 

Spain

Mineral Feed, S.L.

 

Spain

Oligo S.A.

 

Spain

 



 

Creambay Limited

 

U.K.

Excalibur Realty UK Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman Materials UK Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman Nominees (UK) Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman P&A UK Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman Pigments Holdings UK Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman Pigments (UK) Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman Spin (Holdings) UK Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman Spin Investments UK Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman Spin UK Limited

 

U.K.

Huntsman (UK) Limited

 

U.K.

Inorganic Pigments Limited

 

U.K.

Tioxide Group

 

U.K.

Tioxide Group Services Limited

 

U.K.

Chemical Specialties LLC

 

USA—North Carolina

Huntsman P&A Americas LLC

 

USA—Delaware

Louisiana Pigment Company, L.P.

 

USA—Delaware

Tioxide Americas (Holdings) LLC

 

USA—Delaware

Venator Materials LLC

 

USA—Delaware

Viance, LLC

 

USA—Delaware

 




Exhibit 23.2

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

We consent to the use in this Amendment No. 3 to Registration Statement No. 333-217753 of our report dated May 5, 2017, relating to the balance sheet of Venator Materials PLC appearing in the Prospectus, which is a part of such Registration Statement, and to the reference to us under the heading “Experts” in such Prospectus.

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

 

Houston, Texas

July 13, 2017

 




Exhibit 23.3

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

We consent to the use in this Amendment No. 3 to Registration Statement No. 333-217753 of our report dated May 5, 2017 (June 12, 2017 as to the effects of the restatement discussed in Note 25 to the combined financial statements), relating to combined financial statements and financial statement schedule of Venator (comprising the combined operations and legal entities of the Pigments & Additives division and certain other operations of Huntsman Corporation) appearing in the Prospectus, which is a part of such Registration Statement, and to the reference to us under the heading “Experts” in such Prospectus.

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

 

Houston, Texas

July 13, 2017

 




Exhibit 23.4

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

 

We consent to the use in this Amendment No. 3 to Registration Statement No. 333-217753 of our report dated June 9, 2014 related to the combined financial statements of Titanium Dioxide Pigments and Other Businesses of Rockwood Holdings, Inc. as of and for the years ended December 31, 2013 and 2012, appearing in the prospectus, which is part of this Registration Statement, and to the reference to us under the heading “Experts” in such prospectus.

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

 

Houston, Texas

July 13, 2017