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

FORM 10-Q

R
QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
 
For the quarterly period ended June 30, 2012
 
 
or
 
 
o
TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
 
 
 
For the transition period from  _____________ to _____________
 
 
Commission File Number:  1-14303
_______________________________________________________________________________

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

 
Delaware
 
38-3161171
 
 
(State or Other Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)
 
(I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
One Dauch Drive, Detroit, Michigan
 
48211-1198
 
 
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
 
(Zip Code)
 
(313) 758-2000
(Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code)
_______________________________________________________________________________
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant: (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes R No o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).     Yes  R No  o
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, or a smaller reporting company.  See definition of “accelerated filer,” “large accelerated filer” and “smaller reporting company” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large accelerated filer   þ          Accelerated filer  o            Non-accelerated filer   o                 Smaller reporting company   o
                                                                                (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)
 
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act). Yes o No  R

As of July 25, 2012 , the latest practicable date, the number of shares of the registrant's Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, outstanding was 74,839,567 shares.
 
Internet Website Access to Reports

The website for American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. is www.aam.com.   Our annual reports on Form 10-K, quarterly reports on Form 10-Q, current reports on Form 8-K and amendments to those reports filed or furnished pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act are available free of charge through our website as soon as reasonably practicable after they are electronically filed with, or furnished to, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).  The SEC also maintains a website at www.sec.gov that contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC.




AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
FORM 10-Q
FOR THE QUARTER ENDED  JUNE 30, 2012
TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
 
 
 
Page Number
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 




FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

In this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q (Quarterly Report), we make statements concerning our expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, goals, strategies, and future events or performance.  Such statements are “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and relate to trends and events that may affect our future financial position and operating results.  The terms such as “will,” “may,” “could,” “would,” “plan,” “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “project,” and similar words of expressions, as well as statements in future tense, are intended to identify forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements should not be read as a guarantee of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indications of the times at, or by, which such performance or results will be achieved.  Forward-looking statements are based on information available at the time those statements are made and/or management’s good faith belief as of that time with respect to future events and are subject to risks and may differ materially from those expressed in or suggested by the forward-looking statements.  Important factors that could cause such differences include, but are not limited to:

global economic conditions, including the impact of the current sovereign debt crisis in the Euro-zone; 
reduced purchases of our products by GM, Chrysler or other customers;
reduced demand for our customers' products (particularly light trucks and SUVs produced by GM and Chrysler);
liabilities arising from warranty claims, product recall, product liability and legal proceedings to which we are or may become a party;
our ability to realize the expected revenues from our new business backlog;
our ability or our customers' and suppliers' ability to successfully launch new product programs on a timely basis;
our ability to achieve the level of cost reductions required to sustain global cost competitiveness;
our ability to attract new customers and programs for new products;
supply shortages or price increases in raw materials, utilities or other operating supplies for us or our customers as a result of natural disasters or otherwise;
changes in liabilities arising from pension and other postretirement benefit obligations;
our ability to respond to changes in technology, increased competition or pricing pressures;
price volatility in, or reduced availability of, fuel;
our ability to maintain satisfactory labor relations and avoid work stoppages;
our suppliers', our customers' and their suppliers' ability to maintain satisfactory labor relations and avoid work stoppages;
risks inherent in our international operations (including adverse changes in political stability, taxes and other law changes, potential disruption of production and supply, and currency rate fluctuations);
availability of financing for working capital, capital expenditures, R&D or other general corporate purposes, including our ability to comply with financial covenants;
our customers' and suppliers' availability of financing for working capital, capital expenditures, R&D or other general corporate purposes;
our ability to develop and produce new products that reflect market demand;
lower-than-anticipated market acceptance of new or existing products;
adverse changes in laws, government regulations or market conditions affecting our products or our customers' products (such as the Corporate Average Fuel Economy (“CAFE”) regulations);
our ability to consummate and integrate acquisitions and joint ventures;
risks of noncompliance with environmental regulations or risks of environmental issues that could result in unforeseen costs at our facilities;
our ability to attract and retain key associates;
other unanticipated events and conditions that may hinder our ability to compete.

It is not possible to foresee or identify all such factors and we make no commitment to update any forward-looking statement or to disclose any facts, events or circumstances after the date hereof that may affect the accuracy of any forward-looking statement.

   

1



PART I.  FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Item 1.  Financial Statements

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(Unaudited)
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
(in millions, except per share data)
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Net sales
$
739.8

 
$
686.2

 
$
1,491.3

 
$
1,331.8

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cost of goods sold
654.0

 
555.7

 
1,266.3

 
1,085.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Gross profit
85.8

 
130.5

 
225.0

 
245.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Selling, general and administrative expenses
55.5

 
58.8

 
117.3

 
115.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Operating income
30.3

 
71.7

 
107.7

 
130.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Interest expense
(23.4
)
 
(20.5
)
 
(47.4
)
 
(41.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Investment income
0.1

 
0.3

 
0.4

 
0.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other income (expense)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Debt refinancing and redemption costs

 
(3.1
)
 

 
(3.1
)
Other, net
(0.6
)
 
(0.7
)
 
(1.8
)
 
0.3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income before income taxes
6.4

 
47.7

 
58.9

 
86.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income tax expense (benefit)
1.7

 
(0.2
)
 
3.9

 
1.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income
4.7

 
47.9

 
55.0

 
84.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net loss attributable to the noncontrolling interests

 
1.3

 
0.9

 
2.4

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to AAM
$
4.7

 
$
49.2

 
$
55.9

 
$
86.9

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Basic earnings per share
$
0.06

 
$
0.65

 
$
0.74

 
$
1.17

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Diluted earnings per share
$
0.06

 
$
0.65

 
$
0.74

 
$
1.15

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.                   


2



AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
(Unaudited)

 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
(in millions)
Net income
$
4.7

 
$
47.9

 
$
55.0

 
$
84.5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Defined benefit plans
(0.5
)
 
0.4

 
(14.5
)
 
3.5

     Foreign currency translation adjustments
(22.5
)
 
8.3

 
(11.8
)
 
13.5

     Change in derivatives
(0.2
)
 
(0.1
)
 
5.4

 
1.1

Other comprehensive income (loss)
(23.2
)
 
8.6

 
(20.9
)
 
18.1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income (loss)
(18.5
)
 
56.5

 
34.1

 
102.6

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests

 
1.3

 
0.9

 
2.4

Foreign currency translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests

 

 
(0.2
)
 
(0.8
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AAM
$
(18.5
)
 
$
57.8

 
$
34.8

 
$
104.2


See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.                   

3




AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

 
 
June 30, 2012
 
December 31, 2011
 
 
(Unaudited)
 
 
Assets
 
(in millions)
Current assets
 
 
Cash and cash equivalents
 
$
85.2

 
$
169.2

Accounts receivable, net
 
474.2

 
333.3

Inventories, net
 
208.5

 
177.2

Prepaid expenses and other current assets
 
93.7

 
83.4

Total current assets
 
861.6

 
763.1

 
 
 

 
 

Property, plant and equipment, net
 
990.3

 
971.2

Goodwill
 
155.9

 
155.9

GM postretirement cost sharing asset
 
253.9

 
260.2

Other assets and deferred charges
 
179.5

 
178.3

Total assets
 
$
2,441.2

 
$
2,328.7

 
 
 

 
 

Liabilities and Stockholders’ Deficit
 
 

 
 

Current liabilities
 
 

 
 

Accounts payable
 
$
439.6

 
$
337.1

Accrued compensation and benefits
 
96.8

 
110.6

Deferred revenue
 
24.3

 
32.9

Accrued expenses and other current liabilities
 
131.2

 
95.5

Total current liabilities
 
691.9

 
576.1

 
 
 

 
 

Long-term debt
 
1,174.3

 
1,180.2

Deferred revenue
 
80.0

 
88.2

Postretirement benefits and other long-term liabilities
 
889.7

 
903.8

Total liabilities
 
2,835.9

 
2,748.3

 
 
 

 
 

Stockholders' deficit
 
 

 
 

Common stock, par value $0.01 per share
 
0.8

 
0.8

Paid-in capital
 
599.1

 
597.2

Accumulated deficit
 
(587.6
)
 
(643.5
)
Treasury stock at cost, 6.0 million shares as of June 30, 2012 and 5.5 million shares as of December 31, 2011
 
(182.1
)
 
(176.2
)
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax
 
 
 
 
Defined benefit plans
 
(230.1
)
 
(215.6
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments
 
5.3

 
17.3

Unrecognized loss on derivatives
 
(0.1
)
 
(5.5
)
Total AAM stockholders' deficit
 
(394.7
)
 
(425.5
)
Noncontrolling interest in subsidiaries
 

 
5.9

Total stockholders’ deficit
 
(394.7
)
 
(419.6
)
Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit
 
$
2,441.2

 
$
2,328.7

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements. 

4



AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
(Unaudited)
 
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30,
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(in millions)
Operating activities
 
 
 
 
Net income
 
$
55.0

 
$
84.5

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities
 
 
 
 
Depreciation and amortization
 
73.7

 
68.8

Deferred income taxes
 
(1.1
)
 
22.3

Stock-based compensation
 
0.6

 
3.1

Pensions and other postretirement benefits, net of contributions
 
(29.5
)
 
1.6

Loss (gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment, net
 
0.8

 
(6.5
)
Debt refinancing and redemption costs
 

 
1.8

Changes in operating assets and liabilities
 
 
 
 
Accounts receivable
 
(142.6
)
 
(50.3
)
Inventories
 
(34.2
)
 
(16.8
)
Accounts payable and accrued expenses
 
135.3

 
67.3

Deferred revenue
 
(16.7
)
 
(37.7
)
Other assets and liabilities
 
(16.7
)
 
(21.6
)
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
24.6

 
116.5

 
 
 

 
 

Investing activities
 
 

 
 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 
(92.9
)
 
(71.6
)
Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment
 
1.2

 
7.8

Net cash used in investing activities
 
(91.7
)
 
(63.8
)
 
 
 

 
 

Financing activities
 
 

 
 

Net short-term repayments under credit facilities
 
(1.7
)
 

Payments of long-term debt and capital lease obligations
 
(18.0
)
 
(49.2
)
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
 
12.4

 
1.8

Debt issuance costs
 

 
(5.3
)
Purchase of noncontrolling interest
 
(4.0
)
 

Purchase of treasury stock
 
(5.9
)
 
(0.1
)
Employee stock option exercises
 
0.1

 
4.6

Net cash used in financing activities
 
(17.1
)
 
(48.2
)
 
 
 

 
 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 
0.2

 
1.2

 
 
 

 
 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 
(84.0
)
 
5.7

 
 
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
 
169.2

 
244.6

 
 
 

 
 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$
85.2

 
$
250.3

 
 
 

 
 

Supplemental cash flow information
 
 

 
 

     Interest paid
 
$
43.1

 
$
38.2

     Income taxes paid, net of refunds
 
$
10.0

 
$
2.8

 
See accompanying notes to condensed consolidated financial statements.

5



AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
June 30, 2012
(Unaudited)

1. ORGANIZATION AND BASIS OF PRESENTATION

Organization    American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (Holdings) and its subsidiaries (collectively, we, our, us or AAM) is a Tier I supplier to the automotive industry. We manufacture, engineer, design and validate driveline and drivetrain systems and related components and chassis modules for light trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), passenger cars, crossover vehicles and commercial vehicles. Driveline and drivetrain systems include components that transfer power from the transmission and deliver it to the drive wheels. Our driveline, drivetrain and related products include axles, chassis modules, driveshafts, power transfer units, transfer cases, chassis and steering components, driveheads, transmission parts and metal-formed products. In addition to locations in the United States (U.S.) (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania), we also have offices or facilities in Brazil, China, Germany, India, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Poland, Scotland, South Korea, Sweden and Thailand.

Basis of Presentation   We have prepared the accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements in accordance with the instructions to Form 10-Q under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.  These condensed consolidated financial statements are unaudited but include all normal recurring adjustments, which we consider necessary for a fair presentation of the information set forth herein.  Results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results for the full fiscal year.

The balance sheet at December 31, 2011 presented herein has been derived from the audited consolidated financial statements at that date but does not include all of the information and footnotes required by accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (GAAP) for complete consolidated financial statements.
 
In order to prepare the accompanying interim condensed consolidated financial statements, we are required to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts and disclosures in our interim condensed consolidated financial statements.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.

For further information, refer to the audited consolidated financial statements and notes included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011 .

Effect of New Accounting Standards On January 1, 2012, we adopted new accounting guidance on the presentation of comprehensive income. The new guidance allows an entity to present components of net income and other comprehensive income in one continuous statement, referred to as the statement of comprehensive income, or in two separate, but consecutive statements. We have elected to present the components of other comprehensive income in a separate statement immediately following the statement of income. The guidance eliminates the previous option to report other comprehensive income and its components in the statement of changes in equity. While the new guidance changes the presentation of comprehensive income, there are no changes to the components that are recognized in net income or other comprehensive income under current accounting guidance. Other than the change in presentation, the adoption of this new guidance has had no impact on our condensed consolidated financial statements.

On January 1, 2012, we also adopted new accounting guidance on testing goodwill for impairment. This new guidance allows us the option to first assess qualitative factors to determine whether it is necessary to perform the two-step quantitative goodwill impairment test. Under this amendment, we are not required to calculate the fair value of a reporting unit unless we determine, based on a qualitative assessment, that it is more likely than not that its fair value is less than its carrying amount. The amendment includes a number of events and circumstances to consider in conducting the qualitative assessment. We do not believe that the adoption of this new accounting guidance will have a significant effect on our goodwill impairment assessments in the future.









6

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

2. RESTRUCTURING ACTIONS

A summary of the restructuring related activity for the six months ended June 30, 2012 is shown below (in millions) :
 
 
One-time
 
Asset
 
Other
 
 
 
 
Termination
 
Retirement
 
Restructuring
 
 
 
 
Benefits
 
Obligations
 
Actions
 
Total
Accrual as of December 31, 2011
 
$
0.3

 
$
0.6

 
$

 
$
0.9

    Charges
 
1.7

 

 
20.7

 
22.4

    Cash utilization
 
(1.2
)
 

 
(20.7
)
 
(21.9
)
    Accrual adjustments
 
(0.4
)
 

 

 
(0.4
)
Accrual as of June 30, 2012
 
$
0.4

 
$
0.6

 
$

 
$
1.0


In the six months ended June 30, 2012, we incurred charges for the redeployment of assets and other related costs associated with the closure of our Detroit Manufacturing Complex (DMC) and Cheektowaga Manufacturing Facility (CKMF). We expensed and paid $20.7 million in the first six months of 2012, related to these actions.

We expect to make payments of approximately $1.0 million during the remainder of  2012 related to the remaining restructuring accrual.

3. INVENTORIES

We state our inventories at the lower of cost or market.  The cost of our inventories is determined using the FIFO method.  When we determine that our gross inventories exceed usage requirements, or if inventories become obsolete or otherwise not saleable, we record a provision for such loss as a component of our inventory accounts.

Inventories consist of the following: 
 
 
June 30, 2012
 
December 31, 2011
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
Raw materials and work-in-progress
 
$
211.8

 
$
177.0

Finished goods
 
20.5

 
26.9

Gross inventories
 
232.3

 
203.9

Inventory valuation reserves
 
(23.8
)
 
(26.7
)
Inventories, net
 
$
208.5

 
$
177.2

 
4. LONG-TERM DEBT

Long-term debt consists of the following:
 
 
 
June 30, 2012
 
December 31,
2011
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
Revolving credit facility
 
$

 
$

9.25% Notes, net of discount
 
379.3

 
379.0

7.875% Notes
 
300.0

 
300.0

7.75% Notes
 
200.0

 
200.0

5.25% Notes, net of discount
 
249.9

 
249.9

Foreign credit facilities
 
39.3

 
45.2

Capital lease obligations
 
5.8

 
6.1

Long-term debt
 
$
1,174.3

 
$
1,180.2


7

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)


As of June 30, 2012 , the Revolving Credit Facility provided up to $86.8 million of revolving bank financing commitments through June 2013 and $235.0 million of additional revolving bank financing commitments through June 30, 2016.  At June 30, 2012 , we had $296.9 million available under the Revolving Credit Facility.  This availability reflects a reduction of $24.9 million for standby letters of credit issued against the facility.

The Revolving Credit Facility provides back-up liquidity for our foreign credit facilities.  We intend to use the availability of long-term financing under the Revolving Credit Facility to refinance any current maturities related to such debt agreements that are not otherwise refinanced on a long-term basis in their local markets.

We utilize local currency credit facilities to finance the operations of certain foreign subsidiaries.  At June 30, 2012 , $39.3 million was outstanding under these facilities and an additional $32.6 million was available.

The weighted-average interest rate of our long-term debt outstanding was 8.1% at June 30, 2012 and 8.0% as of December 31, 2011 .  

5. FAIR VALUE

The fair value accounting guidance defines fair value as “the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.”  The definition is based on an exit price rather than an entry price, regardless of whether the entity plans to hold or sell the asset.  This guidance also establishes a fair value hierarchy to prioritize inputs used in measuring fair value as follows:

Level 1:  Observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets;
Level 2:  Inputs, other than quoted prices in active markets, that are observable either directly or indirectly; and
Level 3:  Unobservable inputs in which there is little or no market data, which require the reporting entity to develop its own assumptions.

Financial instruments    The estimated fair value of our financial assets and liabilities that are recognized at fair value on a recurring basis, using available market information and other observable data, as of June 30, 2012 , are as follows:
 
 
 
June 30, 2012
 
December 31, 2011
 
 
 
 
  Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Carrying Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Input
 
 
(in millions)
 
  (in millions)
 
 
Balance Sheet Classification
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cash equivalents
 
$
2.6

 
$
2.6

 
$
36.0

 
$
36.0

 
Level 1
Prepaid expenses and other current
    assets
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
Currency forward contracts
 
1.3

 
1.3

 
0.1

 
0.1

 
Level 2
Other assets and deferred charges
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency forward contracts
 
0.3

 
0.3

 
0.1

 
0.1

 
Level 2
Other accrued expenses
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
     Currency forward contracts
 
1.5

 
1.5

 
5.6

 
5.6

 
Level 2
 

8

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

The carrying value of our cash, accounts receivable, accounts payable and accrued liabilities approximates their fair values due to the short-term maturities of these instruments.  The carrying value of our borrowings under the foreign credit facilities approximates their fair value due to the frequent resetting of the interest rates.  We estimated the fair value of the amounts outstanding on our debt using available market information and other observable data, to be as follows:
 
 
 
June 30, 2012
 
December 31, 2011
 
 
 
 
Carrying  Amount
 
Fair Value
 
Carrying  Amount
 
Fair Value
 
 
Input
 
 
(in millions)
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
9.25% Notes
 
$
379.3

 
$
426.5

 
$
379.0

 
$
415.0

 
Level 2
7.875% Notes
 
300.0

 
309.8

 
300.0

 
295.5

 
Level 2
7.75% Notes
 
200.0

 
210.5

 
200.0

 
195.0

 
Level 2
5.25% Notes
 
249.9

 
256.9

 
249.9

 
243.8

 
Level 2
 
6. DERIVATIVES

Our business and financial results are affected by fluctuations in world financial markets, including interest rates and currency exchange rates.  Our hedging policy has been developed to manage these risks to an acceptable level based on management’s judgment of the appropriate trade-off between risk, opportunity and cost.  We do not hold financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Currency forward contracts   From time to time, we use foreign currency forward contracts to reduce the effects of fluctuations in exchange rates, primarily relating to the Mexican Peso, Euro, Pound Sterling and Brazilian Real.  As of June 30, 2012 , we have forward contracts outstanding with a notional amount of $54.8 million that hedge our exposure to changes in foreign currency exchange rates for our payroll expenses in Mexico.  

The following table summarizes the reclassification of pre-tax derivative gains into net income from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss):
 
 
Location of
 
Gain (Loss) Reclassified
 
Loss Expected to be
 
 
Gain (Loss)
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
Reclassified
 
 
  Reclassified into
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
During the
 
 
  Net Income
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
Next 12 Months
 
 
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Currency forward contracts
 
Cost of Goods Sold
 
$
(1.3
)
 
$
1.5

 
$
(1.5
)
 
$
2.2

 
$
(0.1
)
 

9

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

7. EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

The components of net periodic benefit cost (credit) are as follows:

 
 
Pension Benefits
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Service cost
 
$
0.8

 
$
1.1

 
$
1.6

 
$
2.2

Interest cost
 
8.8

 
9.2

 
17.6

 
18.4

Expected asset return
 
(8.0
)
 
(7.9
)
 
(16.0
)
 
(15.8
)
Amortized loss
 
1.8

 
1.1

 
3.6

 
2.2

Net periodic benefit cost
 
$
3.4

 
$
3.5

 
$
6.8

 
$
7.0

 
 
 
 
 
Other Postretirement Benefits
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Service cost
 
$
0.1

 
$
0.2

 
$
0.2

 
$
0.4

Interest cost
 
3.9

 
4.3

 
7.8

 
8.6

Amortized loss
 
0.2

 
0.1

 
0.4

 
0.2

Amortized prior service credit
 
(0.5
)
 
(0.8
)
 
(1.0
)
 
(1.6
)
Curtailment
 

 

 
(21.8
)
 

Settlement
 
(5.2
)
 

 
(5.2
)
 

Net periodic benefit cost (credit)
 
$
(1.5
)
 
$
3.8

 
$
(19.6
)
 
$
7.6


In the first quarter of 2012, we recorded a gain of $21.8 million in cost of goods sold for the curtailment of certain other postretirement benefits (OPEB). This resulted primarily from the reduction in the expected future OPEB related to the DMC and CKMF hourly associates who have terminated employment from AAM as a result of our plant closures. These curtailment gains resulted in an increase in our accumulated other comprehensive loss of $21.8 million .

In the second quarter of 2012, we notified hourly associates of the termination of a benefit plan, which provided legal services to certain eligible hourly associates represented by the International UAW. As a result of terminating this plan, we recorded a settlement gain of $5.2 million in cost of goods sold in the second quarter of 2012. Recognition of this settlement gain reduced our postretirement benefits and other long-term liabilities by $4.7 million and also reduced our accumulated other comprehensive loss by $0.5 million .

Our regulatory pension funding requirements in 2012 are approximately $35 million . This funding requirement does not include any potential funding relief provided by the July 2012 enactment of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) , or any additional regulatory funding required as a result of the closure of our Detroit Manufacturing Complex and Cheektowaga Manufacturing Facility.

We expect our cash outlay for other postretirement benefit obligations in 2012, net of GM cost sharing, to be approximately $16 million .

10

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

8.
PRODUCT WARRANTIES

We record a liability for estimated warranty obligations at the dates our product are sold.  These estimates are established using sales volumes and internal and external warranty data where there is no payment history and historical information about the average cost of warranty claims for customers with prior claims.  We adjust our liability as necessary to reflect changes in estimates as additional information is gathered as part of our active management of warranty exposure with our customers.

As part of the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement, AAM agreed to expanded warranty cost sharing with GM, which began on January 1, 2011.

The following table provides a reconciliation of changes in the product warranty liability:

 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Beginning balance
 
$
16.8

 
$
5.3

 
$
13.4

 
$
2.3

     Accruals
 
10.7

 
3.1

 
14.4

 
6.1

     Settlements
 
(0.1
)
 
(0.3
)
 
(0.4
)
 
(0.4
)
     Adjustment to prior period accruals
 
(2.8
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(2.8
)
 

     Foreign currency translation and other
 
(0.1
)
 
0.1

 
(0.1
)
 
0.1

Ending balance
 
$
24.5

 
$
8.1

 
$
24.5

 
$
8.1



9. INCOME TAXES

 We are required to adjust our effective tax rate each quarter to consistently estimate our annual effective tax rate.  We must also record the tax impact of certain discrete items, unusual or infrequently occurring, including changes in judgment about valuation allowances and effects of changes in tax laws or rates, in the interim period in which they occur.  In addition, jurisdictions with a projected loss for the year or a year-to-date loss where no tax benefit can be recognized are excluded from the estimated annual effective tax rate.  The impact of such an exclusion could result in a higher or lower effective tax rate during a particular quarter, based upon the mix and timing of actual earnings versus annual projections.

Income tax expense (benefit) was expense of $1.7 million in the three months ended June 30, 2012 as compared to a benefit of $0.2 million in the three months ended June 30, 2011 .  Our effective income tax rate was 25.9% in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to negative  0.5% in the second quarter of 2011 .  

Income tax expense (benefit) was expense of $3.9 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to expense of $1.9 million in the first six months of 2011 .  Our effective income tax rate was 6.6% in the first six months of 2012 as compared to 2.2% in the first six months of 2011

Our income tax expense and effective tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 reflect the effect of recognizing a net operating loss benefit against our taxable income in the U.S . Our income tax expense for the three and six months ended June 30, 2012 also reflects a net tax expense of $1.3 million related to the amendment of state income tax returns as a result of the settlement of federal income tax audits for the tax years 2004 through 2007.

Our income tax expense (benefit) and effective tax rate for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 reflect the effect of recognizing a net operating loss benefit against our taxable income in the U.S. Our income tax expense (benefit) for the three and six months ended June 30, 2011 also reflects net tax benefits of $2.8 million relating to the favorable resolution of income tax audits and the reversal of state deferred tax liabilities due to newly enacted Michigan tax legislation.


 


11

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

10. EARNINGS PER SHARE (EPS)

 The following table sets forth the computation of our basic and diluted EPS:
 
 
 
Three Months Ended
 
Six Months Ended
 
 
June 30,
 
June 30,
 
 
2012
 
2011
 
2012
 
2011
 
 
(in millions, except per share data)
Numerator
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net income attributable to AAM
 
$
4.7

 
$
49.2

 
$
55.9

 
$
86.9

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Denominator
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Basic shares outstanding -
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

   Weighted-average shares outstanding
 
75.1

 
75.4

 
75.1

 
74.5

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Effect of dilutive securities
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

   Dilutive stock-based compensation
 

 

 

 
0.2

   Dilutive GM warrants
 

 

 

 
0.7

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Diluted shares outstanding -
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

   Adjusted weighted-average shares after assumed conversions
 
75.1

 
75.4

 
75.1

 
75.4

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Basic EPS
 
$
0.06

 
$
0.65

 
$
0.74

 
$
1.17

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Diluted EPS
 
$
0.06

 
$
0.65

 
$
0.74

 
$
1.15

 
Certain exercisable stock options were excluded from the computations of diluted EPS because the exercise price of these options was greater than the average period market prices. The number of stock options outstanding, which were not included in the calculation of diluted EPS, was 3.3 million at June 30, 2012 and 4.1 million at June 30, 2011 . The ranges of exercise prices related to the excluded exercisable stock options were $15.58 - $40.83 at June 30, 2012 and $15.56 - $40.83 at June 30, 2011 .
As part of the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement, we issued to GM five year warrants, which entitled GM to purchase 4.1 million shares of AAM's common stock at an exercise price of $2.76 per share. In the first quarter of 2011, GM exercised these warrants. In accordance with the cashless exercise option available in the agreement, we issued 3.3 million net shares of common stock to GM.

11. INVESTMENT IN JOINT VENTURES

In the first quarter of 2012, we paid $4.0 million to acquire the remaining shares of e-AAM Driveline Systems AB (e-AAM). e-AAM, previously a joint venture between AAM and Saab Automobile AB (Saab), was created to design and commercialize electric all-wheel-drive (eAWD) systems designed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce CO 2 emissions and provide all-wheel-drive capability.

Under the purchase agreement, Saab's bankruptcy estate sold its minority ownership ( 33% of the shares) in the joint venture to AAM. e-AAM is now a wholly-owned subsidiary of AAM and continues to be a fully consolidated entity. As a result, AAM has 100% ownership and control of the business operation and will continue the full scope of engineering, developing and commercializing eAWD hybrid driveline systems for passenger cars and crossover vehicles.


12

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

12. CONTINGENCIES

In February 2012, the International UAW filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, alleging that AAM violated certain provisions of the collective bargaining agreement covering represented hourly associates at the Detroit Manufacturing Complex and Cheektowaga Manufacturing Facility related to pension and postretirement benefits. As a result of the potential impact from the enactment of MAP-21 on this litigation, we recorded an actuarially determined expense of $28.1 million in cost of goods sold in the second quarter of 2012.  This charge represents our actuarial estimate of the cost of the pension and postretirement benefits that would have to be provided to eligible UAW associates if the International UAW were to prevail in this litigation. 

AAM disputes these claims and continues to defend the lawsuit vigorously. Additional facts and circumstances may continue to develop in the future that could have a significant impact on our estimates, including changes in discount rates and other actuarial assumptions.


13

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

13. SUPPLEMENTAL GUARANTOR CONDENSED CONSOLIDATING FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Holdings has no significant asset other than its 100% ownership in AAM, Inc. and no direct subsidiaries other than AAM, Inc. Holdings fully and unconditionally guarantees the 7.875% Notes and 5.25% Notes, which are senior unsecured obligations of AAM, Inc. The 9.25% Notes are senior secured obligations of AAM Inc. and the 7.75% Notes are senior unsecured obligations of AAM Inc.; both of which are fully and unconditionally guaranteed by Holdings and substantially all domestic subsidiaries of AAM, Inc.

These Condensed Consolidating Financial Statements are prepared under the equity method of accounting whereby the investments in subsidiaries are recorded at cost and adjusted for the parent’s share of the subsidiaries’ cumulative results of operations, capital contributions and distributions, and other equity changes.
 
Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Three Months Ended June 30,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
External
 
$

 
$
182.1

 
$
54.8

 
$
502.9

 
$

 
$
739.8

Intercompany
 

 
3.8

 
59.4

 
6.4

 
(69.6
)
 

Total net sales
 

 
185.9

 
114.2

 
509.3

 
(69.6
)
 
739.8

Cost of goods sold
 

 
206.4

 
100.7

 
416.5

 
(69.6
)
 
654.0

Gross profit (loss)
 

 
(20.5
)
 
13.5

 
92.8

 

 
85.8

Selling, general and administrative expenses
 

 
46.5

 

 
9.0

 

 
55.5

Operating income (loss)
 

 
(67.0
)
 
13.5

 
83.8

 

 
30.3

Non-operating income (expense), net
 

 
(24.5
)
 
0.4

 
0.2

 

 
(23.9
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
 

 
(91.5
)
 
13.9

 
84.0

 

 
6.4

Income tax expense (benefit)
 

 
1.2

 

 
0.5

 

 
1.7

Earnings (loss) from equity in subsidiaries
 
4.7

 
52.0

 
(12.7
)
 

 
(44.0
)
 

Net income (loss) before royalties and dividends
 
4.7

 
(40.7
)
 
1.2

 
83.5

 
(44.0
)
 
4.7

Royalties and dividends
 

 
45.4

 

 
(45.4
)
 

 

Net income after royalties and dividends
 
4.7

 
4.7

 
1.2

 
38.1

 
(44.0
)
 
4.7

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income attributable to AAM
 
$
4.7

 
$
4.7

 
$
1.2

 
$
38.1

 
$
(44.0
)
 
$
4.7

Other comprehensive (loss)
 
(23.2
)
 
(23.2
)
 
(21.4
)
 
(21.8
)
 
66.4

 
(23.2
)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to AAM
 
$
(18.5
)
 
$
(18.5
)
 
$
(20.2
)
 
$
16.3

 
$
22.4

 
$
(18.5
)


14

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
2011
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Net sales
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

External
 
$

 
$
219.3

 
$
49.2

 
$
417.7

 
$

 
$
686.2

Intercompany
 

 
6.4

 
52.0

 
2.3

 
(60.7
)
 

Total net sales
 

 
225.7

 
101.2

 
420.0

 
(60.7
)
 
686.2

Cost of goods sold
 

 
203.8

 
86.3

 
326.3

 
(60.7
)
 
555.7

Gross profit
 

 
21.9

 
14.9

 
93.7

 

 
130.5

Selling, general and administrative expenses
 

 
48.3

 

 
10.5

 

 
58.8

Operating income (loss)
 

 
(26.4
)
 
14.9

 
83.2

 

 
71.7

Non-operating income (expense), net
 

 
(25.0
)
 
0.2

 
0.8

 

 
(24.0
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
 

 
(51.4
)
 
15.1

 
84.0

 

 
47.7

Income tax expense (benefit)
 

 
(2.3
)
 

 
2.1

 

 
(0.2
)
Earnings (loss) from equity in subsidiaries
 
49.2

 
47.9

 
(6.2
)
 

 
(90.9
)
 

Net income (loss) before royalties and dividends
 
49.2

 
(1.2
)
 
8.9

 
81.9

 
(90.9
)
 
47.9

Royalties and dividends
 

 
50.4

 

 
(50.4
)
 

 

Net income after royalties and dividends
 
49.2

 
49.2

 
8.9

 
31.5

 
(90.9
)
 
47.9

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 

 

 

 
1.3

 

 
1.3

Net income attributable to AAM
 
$
49.2

 
$
49.2

 
$
8.9

 
$
32.8

 
$
(90.9
)
 
$
49.2

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
8.6

 
8.6

 
8.5

 
8.6

 
(25.7
)
 
8.6

Comprehensive income attributable to AAM
 
$
57.8

 
$
57.8

 
$
17.4

 
$
41.4

 
$
(116.6
)
 
$
57.8


15

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

Condensed Consolidating Statements of Income
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
External
 
$

 
$
380.4

 
$
109.3

 
$
1,001.6

 
$

 
$
1,491.3

Intercompany
 

 
11.4

 
120.1

 
12.2

 
(143.7
)
 

Total net sales
 

 
391.8

 
229.4

 
1,013.8

 
(143.7
)
 
1,491.3

Cost of goods sold
 

 
380.4

 
200.6

 
829.0

 
(143.7
)
 
1,266.3

Gross profit
 

 
11.4

 
28.8

 
184.8

 

 
225.0

Selling, general and administrative expenses
 

 
98.2

 

 
19.1

 

 
117.3

Operating income (loss)
 

 
(86.8
)
 
28.8

 
165.7

 

 
107.7

Non-operating income (expense), net
 

 
(48.8
)
 
1.2

 
(1.2
)
 

 
(48.8
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
 

 
(135.6
)
 
30.0

 
164.5

 

 
58.9

Income tax expense
 

 
0.3

 

 
3.6

 

 
3.9

Earnings (loss) from equity in subsidiaries
 
55.9

 
99.3

 
(26.2
)
 

 
(129.0
)
 

Net income (loss) before royalties and dividends
 
55.9

 
(36.6
)
 
3.8

 
160.9

 
(129.0
)
 
55.0

Royalties and dividends
 

 
92.5

 

 
(92.5
)
 

 

Net income after royalties and dividends
 
55.9

 
55.9

 
3.8

 
68.4

 
(129.0
)
 
55.0

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 

 

 

 
0.9

 

 
0.9

Net income attributable to AAM
 
$
55.9

 
$
55.9

 
$
3.8

 
$
69.3

 
$
(129.0
)
 
$
55.9

Other comprehensive income (loss)
 
(20.9
)
 
(20.9
)
 
(11.3
)
 
(6.8
)
 
39.0

 
(20.9
)
Foreign currency translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
(0.2
)
 
(0.2
)
 

 
(0.2
)
 
0.4

 
(0.2
)
Comprehensive income attributable to AAM
 
$
34.8

 
$
34.8

 
$
(7.5
)
 
$
62.3

 
$
(89.6
)
 
$
34.8

 

16

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net sales
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
External
 
$

 
$
414.9

 
$
100.2

 
$
816.7

 
$

 
$
1,331.8

Intercompany
 

 
12.3

 
97.0

 
5.0

 
(114.3
)
 

Total net sales
 

 
427.2

 
197.2

 
821.7

 
(114.3
)
 
1,331.8

Cost of goods sold
 

 
386.6

 
169.6

 
644.0

 
(114.3
)
 
1,085.9

Gross profit
 

 
40.6

 
27.6

 
177.7

 

 
245.9

Selling, general and administrative expenses
 

 
96.0

 

 
19.5

 

 
115.5

Operating income (loss)
 

 
(55.4
)
 
27.6

 
158.2

 

 
130.4

Non-operating income (expense), net
 

 
(47.0
)
 
0.6

 
2.4

 

 
(44.0
)
Income (loss) before income taxes
 

 
(102.4
)
 
28.2

 
160.6

 

 
86.4

Income tax expense (benefit)
 

 
(2.0
)
 

 
3.9

 

 
1.9

Earnings (loss) from equity in subsidiaries
 
86.9

 
87.9

 
(17.5
)
 

 
(157.3
)
 

Net income (loss) before royalties and dividends
 
86.9

 
(12.5
)
 
10.7

 
156.7

 
(157.3
)
 
84.5

Royalties and dividends
 

 
99.4

 

 
(99.4
)
 

 

Net income after royalties and dividends
 
86.9

 
86.9

 
10.7

 
57.3

 
(157.3
)
 
84.5

Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests
 

 

 

 
2.4

 

 
2.4

Net income attributable to AAM
 
$
86.9

 
$
86.9

 
$
10.7

 
$
59.7

 
$
(157.3
)
 
$
86.9

Other comprehensive income
 
18.1

 
18.1

 
13.3

 
13.5

 
(44.9
)
 
18.1

Foreign currency translation adjustments attributable to noncontrolling interests
 
(0.8
)
 
(0.8
)
 

 
(0.8
)
 
1.6

 
(0.8
)
Comprehensive income attributable to AAM
 
$
104.2

 
$
104.2

 
$
24.0

 
$
72.4

 
$
(200.6
)
 
$
104.2

 


17

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheets

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
June 30, 2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Cash and cash equivalents
 
$

 
$
22.4

 
$

 
$
62.8

 
$

 
$
85.2

    Accounts receivable, net
 

 
106.2

 
28.0

 
340.0

 

 
474.2

    Inventories, net
 

 
43.6

 
30.6

 
134.3

 

 
208.5

    Other current assets
 

 
22.5

 
1.4

 
69.8

 

 
93.7

Total current assets
 

 
194.7

 
60.0

 
606.9

 

 
861.6

Property, plant and equipment, net
 

 
261.6

 
83.7

 
645.0

 

 
990.3

Goodwill
 

 

 
147.8

 
8.1

 

 
155.9

Other assets and deferred charges
 

 
318.0

 
38.5

 
76.9

 

 
433.4

Investment in subsidiaries
 

 
1,109.5

 
4.6

 

 
(1,114.1
)
 

Total assets
 
$

 
$
1,883.8

 
$
334.6

 
$
1,336.9

 
$
(1,114.1
)
 
$
2,441.2

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Current liabilities
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Accounts payable
 
$

 
$
103.9

 
$
45.8

 
$
289.9

 
$

 
$
439.6

Other current liabilities
 

 
162.2

 
3.8

 
86.3

 

 
252.3

Total current liabilities
 

 
266.1

 
49.6

 
376.2

 

 
691.9

Intercompany payable (receivable)
 
326.6

 
(350.4
)
 
270.9

 
(247.1
)
 

 

Long-term debt
 

 
1,129.2

 
5.8

 
39.3

 

 
1,174.3

Investment in subsidiaries obligation
 
68.1

 

 

 

 
(68.1
)
 

Other long-term liabilities
 

 
907.0

 
3.6

 
59.1

 

 
969.7

Total liabilities
 
394.7

 
1,951.9

 
329.9

 
227.5

 
(68.1
)
 
2,835.9

Total AAM Stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
(394.7
)
 
(68.1
)
 
4.7

 
1,109.4

 
(1,046.0
)
 
(394.7
)
Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries
 

 

 

 

 

 

Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
(394.7
)
 
(68.1
)
 
4.7

 
1,109.4

 
(1,046.0
)
 
(394.7
)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
$

 
$
1,883.8

 
$
334.6

 
$
1,336.9

 
$
(1,114.1
)
 
$
2,441.2

 

18

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
December 31, 2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Current assets
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
    Cash and cash equivalents
 
$

 
$
83.7

 
$

 
$
85.5

 
$

 
$
169.2

    Accounts receivable, net
 

 
77.1

 
23.3

 
232.9

 

 
333.3

    Inventories, net
 

 
48.2

 
35.3

 
93.7

 

 
177.2

    Other current assets
 

 
26.5

 
1.7

 
55.2

 

 
83.4

Total current assets
 

 
235.5

 
60.3

 
467.3

 

 
763.1

Property, plant and equipment, net
 

 
260.4

 
84.6

 
626.2

 

 
971.2

Goodwill
 

 

 
147.8

 
8.1

 

 
155.9

Other assets and deferred charges
 

 
327.2

 
35.8

 
75.5

 

 
438.5

Investment in subsidiaries
 

 
1,015.2

 
26.6

 

 
(1,041.8
)
 

Total assets
 
$

 
$
1,838.3

 
$
355.1

 
$
1,177.1

 
$
(1,041.8
)
 
$
2,328.7

Liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Current liabilities
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Accounts payable
 
$

 
$
96.3

 
$
41.0

 
$
199.8

 
$

 
$
337.1

Other current liabilities
 

 
155.1

 
3.0

 
80.9

 

 
239.0

Total current liabilities
 

 
251.4

 
44.0

 
280.7

 

 
576.1

Intercompany payable (receivable)
 
320.7

 
(368.6
)
 
289.0

 
(241.1
)
 

 

Long-term debt
 

 
1,128.9

 
5.9

 
45.4

 

 
1,180.2

Investment in subsidiaries obligation
 
104.8

 

 

 

 
(104.8
)
 

Other long-term liabilities
 

 
931.4

 
3.6

 
57.0

 

 
992.0

Total liabilities
 
425.5

 
1,943.1

 
342.5

 
142.0

 
(104.8
)
 
2,748.3

Total AAM Stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
(425.5
)
 
(104.8
)
 
12.6

 
1,029.2

 
(937.0
)
 
(425.5
)
Noncontrolling interests in subsidiaries
 

 

 

 
5.9

 

 
5.9

Total stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
(425.5
)
 
(104.8
)
 
12.6

 
1,035.1

 
(937.0
)
 
(419.6
)
Total liabilities and stockholders’ equity (deficit)
 
$

 
$
1,838.3

 
$
355.1

 
$
1,177.1

 
$
(1,041.8
)
 
$
2,328.7

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 


19

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Six Months Ended June 30,
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(in millions)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
2012
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities
 
$

 
$
(51.9
)
 
$
32.4

 
$
44.1

 
$

 
$
24.6

Investing activities
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 

 
(25.2
)
 
(4.2
)
 
(63.5
)
 

 
(92.9
)
Proceeds from sale of equipment
 

 
0.4

 

 
0.8

 

 
1.2

Net cash used in investing activities
 

 
(24.8
)
 
(4.2
)
 
(62.7
)
 

 
(91.7
)
Financing activities
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Net debt activity
 

 
(1.7
)
 
(0.1
)
 
(5.5
)
 

 
(7.3
)
Intercompany activity
 
5.9

 
17.0

 
(28.1
)
 
5.2

 

 

Purchase of noncontrolling interest
 

 

 

 
(4.0
)
 

 
(4.0
)
Employee stock option exercises
 

 
0.1

 

 

 

 
0.1

Purchase of treasury stock
 
(5.9
)
 

 

 

 

 
(5.9
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
 

 
15.4

 
(28.2
)
 
(4.3
)
 

 
(17.1
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 

 

 

 
0.2

 

 
0.2

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents
 

 
(61.3
)
 

 
(22.7
)
 

 
(84.0
)
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
 

 
83.7

 

 
85.5

 

 
169.2

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$

 
$
22.4

 
$

 
$
62.8

 
$

 
$
85.2

 

20

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
NOTES TO CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Holdings
 
AAM Inc.
 
Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries
 
Elims
 
Consolidated
2011
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Net cash provided by operating activities
 
$

 
$
0.2

 
$
27.9

 
$
88.4

 
$

 
$
116.5

Investing activities
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 

Purchases of property, plant and equipment
 

 
(16.5
)
 
(1.8
)
 
(53.3
)
 

 
(71.6
)
Proceeds from sale of equipment
 

 
1.4

 
0.1

 
6.3

 

 
7.8

Net cash used in investing activities
 

 
(15.1
)
 
(1.7
)
 
(47.0
)
 

 
(63.8
)
Financing activities
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

Net debt activity
 
(42.9
)
 

 
(0.1
)
 
(4.4
)
 

 
(47.4
)
Intercompany activity
 
43.0

 
10.0

 
(26.1
)
 
(26.9
)
 

 

Debt issuance costs
 

 
(5.3
)
 

 

 

 
(5.3
)
Employee stock option exercises
 

 
4.6

 

 

 

 
4.6

Purchase of treasury stock
 
(0.1
)
 

 

 

 

 
(0.1
)
Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities
 

 
9.3

 
(26.2
)
 
(31.3
)
 

 
(48.2
)
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
 

 

 

 
1.2

 

 
1.2

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents
 

 
(5.6
)
 

 
11.3

 

 
5.7

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period
 

 
67.6

 

 
177.0

 

 
244.6

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period
 
$

 
$
62.0

 
$

 
$
188.3

 
$

 
$
250.3

 
 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 

 
 



21



Item 2.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

This management’s discussion and analysis (MD&A) should be read in conjunction with the unaudited condensed consolidated financial statements and notes appearing elsewhere in this Quarterly Report and our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2011 .

Unless the context otherwise requires, references to "we," "our," "us" or "AAM" shall mean collectively (i) American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (Holdings), a Delaware corporation, and (ii) American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. (AAM, Inc.), a Delaware corporation, and its direct and indirect subsidiaries.  Holdings has no subsidiaries other than AAM, Inc.

COMPANY OVERVIEW

We are a Tier I supplier to the automotive industry.  We manufacture, engineer, design and validate driveline and drivetrain systems and related components and chassis modules for light trucks, sport utility vehicles (SUVs), passenger cars, crossover vehicles and commercial vehicles.  Driveline and drivetrain systems include components that transfer power from the transmission and deliver it to the drive wheels.  Our driveline, drivetrain and related products include axles, chassis modules, driveshafts, power transfer units, transfer cases, chassis and steering components, driveheads, transmission parts and metal-formed products. In addition to locations in the United States (U.S.) (Michigan, Ohio, Indiana and Pennsylvania), we also have offices or facilities in Brazil, China, Germany, India, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Poland, Scotland, South Korea, Sweden and Thailand.

We are the principal supplier of driveline components to General Motors Company (GM) for its rear-wheel drive (RWD) light trucks and SUVs manufactured in North America, supplying substantially all of GM’s rear axle and front four-wheel drive and all-wheel drive (4WD/AWD) axle requirements for these vehicle platforms.  Sales to GM were approximately 74% of our total net sales in the first six months of 2012 as compared to  73% for both the first six months and the full year 2011 .

We are the sole-source supplier to GM for certain axles and other driveline products for the life of each GM vehicle program covered by a Lifetime Program Contract (LPC).  Substantially all of our sales to GM are made pursuant to the LPCs.  The LPCs have terms equal to the lives of the relevant vehicle programs or their respective derivatives, which typically run 5 to 7 years, and require us to remain competitive with respect to technology, design and quality.

We are also the principal supplier of driveline system products for the Chrysler Group LLC’s (Chrysler) heavy-duty Dodge Ram full-size pickup trucks and its derivatives.  Sales to Chrysler were approximately 9% of our total net sales in the first six months of 2012 and 2011 and 8% for the full-year 2011 . In addition to GM and Chrysler, we supply driveline systems and other related components to Volkswagen AG, Audi AG, Scania AB, Mack Trucks Inc., PACCAR Inc., Nissan Motor Co. Ltd., Harley-Davidson Inc., Tata Motors, Ford Motor Company, Deere & Company and other original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and Tier I supplier companies. Our net sales to customers other than GM increased 8.5% to $391.8 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $361.1 million in the first six months of 2011 .







22



RESULTS OF OPERATIONS –– THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2012 AS COMPARED TO THREE MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2011

Net Sales   Net sales increased to $739.8 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $686.2 million in the second quarter of 2011 .  This increase reflects the improvement in both general economic conditions and market conditions in the automotive industry.

Our content-per-vehicle (as measured by the dollar value of our products supporting our customers' North American light truck and SUV programs) was $1,439 in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $1,504 in the second quarter of 2011 .  The decrease in content-per-vehicle is due to a reduction in deferred revenue recognition related to the 2008 AAM - GM Agreement and lower four-wheel drive penetration in our customers' North American light truck and SUV programs. Our 4WD/AWD penetration rate on these vehicle programs was 61.1% in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to 63.6% in the second quarter of 2011 .

Gross Profit   Gross profit was $85.8 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $130.5 million in the second quarter of 2011 .  Gross margin was 11.6% in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to 19.0% in the second quarter of 2011 .  

The change in gross profit and gross margin in the second quarter of 2012 , as compared to the second quarter of 2011 , reflects the adverse impact of $36.3 million of special charges and other restructuring costs related to the closure of our Detroit Manufacturing Complex (DMC) and Cheektowaga Manufacturing Facility (CKMF). These special charges include $28.1 million of expense for a contingency related to a claim made by the International UAW for pension and postretirement benefits. The change in gross profit and gross margin in the second quarter of 2012, as compared to the second quarter of 2011, also reflects the impact of increased freight and material cost and higher warranty accruals, which was partially offset by a $5.2 million settlement gain related to the termination of our UAW Legal Services Plan.

Gross profit in the second quarter of 2011 includes a $6.1 million gain related to the sale of equipment that we had previously written down to its estimated fair value as a result of asset impairments.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (SG&A)   SG&A (including research and development (R&D)) decreased to $55.5 million or 7.5% of net sales in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $58.8 million or 8.6% of net sales in the second quarter of 2011 .  R&D was $28.8 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $27.3 million in the second quarter of 2011 . The decrease in SG&A in the second quarter of 2012 primarily reflects lower incentive compensation accruals and stock-based compensation expense, which was partially offset by increased R&D spending.

Operating Income  Operating income was $30.3 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $71.7 million in the second quarter of 2011 .  Operating margin was 4.1% in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to 10.4% in the second quarter of 2011 .  The changes in operating income and operating margin were due to factors discussed in Gross Profit and SG&A above.

Interest Expense and Investment Income  Interest expense was $23.4 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $20.5 million in the second quarter of 2011 .  The increase in interest expense reflects higher average outstanding borrowings in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to the second quarter of 2011. Investment income was $0.1 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $0.3 million in the second quarter of 2011

The weighted-average interest rate of our long-term debt outstanding was 7.9% in the second quarter of 2012 and 8.2% in the second quarter of 2011.

Other Expense Following are the components of other expense for the second quarter of 2012 and 2011 :

Debt refinancing and redemption costs In the second quarter of 2011, we expensed $3.1 million of unamortized debt issuance costs, discount and prepayment premiums related to the voluntary prepayment of 10% of our 9.25% Notes and the termination of our Second Lien Term Loan with GM.

Other expense, net Other expense, which includes the net effect of our proportionate share of earnings from equity in unconsolidated subsidiaries and foreign exchange gains and losses, was $0.6 million in the second quarter of 2012 and $0.7 million in the second quarter of 2011 .

23




Income Tax Expense (Benefit)   Income tax expense (benefit) was expense of $1.7 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to a benefit of $0.2 million in the second quarter of 2011 .  Our effective income tax rate was 25.9% in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to negative 0.5% in the second quarter of 2011 .  

Our income tax expense and effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2012 reflect the effect of recognizing a net operating loss benefit against our taxable income in the U.S . Our income tax expense for the second quarter of 2012 also reflects a net tax expense of $1.3 million related to the amendment of state income tax returns as a result of the settlement of federal income tax audits for the tax years 2004 through 2007. Our income tax expense (benefit) and effective tax rate for the second quarter of 2011 reflects the effect of recognizing a net operating loss benefit against our taxable income in the U.S. Our income tax expense (benefit) for the second quarter of 2011 also reflects net tax benefits of $2.8 million relating to the favorable resolution of income tax audits and the reversal of state deferred tax liabilities due to newly enacted Michigan tax legislation.

In accordance with accounting guidance for income taxes, we estimate whether recoverability of our deferred tax assets is "more likely than not," based on forecasts of taxable income in the related tax jurisdictions. If, in the future, we generate taxable income on a sustained basis in the U.S. or in foreign jurisdictions for which we have recorded valuation allowances, our current estimate of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets could change and result in the future reversal of some or all of the valuation allowances. Our current low effective tax rate is primarily the result of our valuation allowance against deferred tax assets. Sustained levels of profitability are expected to lead to a reversal of the majority of our valuation allowance, which could occur as early as the fourth quarter of 2012.

Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling interests Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests was $1.3 million in the second quarter of 2011 . The decrease in net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests relates to AAM's acquisition of the noncontrolling interest in e-AAM in the first quarter of 2012. There is no longer an allocation of net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests related to this entity.

Net Income Attributable to AAM and Earnings Per Share (EPS) Net income attributable to AAM was $4.7 million in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $49.2 million in the second quarter of 2011 . Diluted EPS was $0.06 in the second quarter of 2012 as compared to $0.65 in the second quarter of 2011 . Net income attributable to AAM and EPS for the second quarters of 2012 and 2011 were primarily impacted by the factors discussed in Net Sales, Gross Profit and SG&A above.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS –– SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2012 AS COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2011

Net Sales   Net sales increased to $1,491.3 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $1,331.8 million in the first six months of 2011 . As compared to the first six months of 2011 , our sales in the first six months of 2012 reflect an increase of approximately 7% in production volumes for the major North American light truck and SUV programs we currently support.  These increases reflect the improvement in both general economic conditions and market conditions in the automotive industry.

Our content-per-vehicle (as measured by the dollar value of our products supporting our customers' North American light truck and SUV programs) was $1,457 in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $1,491 in the first six months of 2011 . The decrease in content-per-vehicle is due to a reduction in deferred revenue recognition related to the 2008 AAM - GM Agreement and lower four-wheel drive penetration in our customers' North American light truck and SUV programs. Our 4WD/AWD penetration rate was 62.9% in the first six months of 2012 as compared to 63.7% in the first six months of 2011 .

Gross Profit  Gross profit was $225.0 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $245.9 million in the first six months of 2011 .  Gross margin was 15.1%  in the first six months of 2012 as compared to 18.5% in the first six months of 2011 .  

The change in gross profit in the first six months of 2012 as compared to the first six months of 2011 primarily reflects the adverse impact of special charges of $28.1 million of expense for a contingency related to a claim made by the International UAW for pension and postretirement bene fits, $24.2 million of expense primarily related to asset redeployment and other restructuring costs associated with the closure of DMC and CKMF and a $21.8 million OPEB curtailment gain recorded as a result of the DMC and CKMF hourly associates who have terminated employment from AAM as a result of our plant closures. The change in gross profit and gross margin in the first six months of 2012, as compared to the first six months of 2011, also reflects the impact of increased freight and material cost and higher warranty accruals, which was partially offset by a $5.2 million settlement gain related to the termination of our UAW Legal Services Plan.

24




Gross profit in the first six months of 2011 includes the adverse impact of the implementation of certain provisions of the 2009 Settlement and Commercial Agreement with GM. These provisions were effective January 1, 2011 and, among other things, include expanded warranty cost sharing and product price-downs. Gross profit in the first six months of 2011 also includes a $6.1 million gain related to the sale of equipment that we had previously written down to its estimated fair value as a result of asset impairments.

Selling, General and Administrative Expenses (SG&A)   SG&A (including research and development (R&D)) was $117.3 million or 7.9% of net sales in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $115.5 million or 8.7% of net sales in the first six months of 2011 .  R&D was $58.9 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $53.6 million in the first six months of 2011 . The increase in SG&A in the first six months of 2012 primarily reflects increased R&D spending and increases in our salaried workforce to support worldwide growth, which is partially offset by lower incentive compensation accruals and stock-based compensation expense.
  
Operating Income  Operating income was $107.7 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $130.4 million in the first six months of 2011 .  Operating margin was 7.2% in the first six months of 2012 as compared to 9.8% in the first six months of 2011 .  The changes in operating income and operating margin were due to factors discussed in Gross Profit and SG&A above.

Interest Expense and Investment Income   Interest expense was $47.4 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $41.8 million in the first six months of 2011 .  The increase in interest expense reflects higher average outstanding borrowings in the first six months of 2012 as compared to the first six months of 2011. Investment income was $0.4 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $0.6 million in the first six months of 2011 .  

The weighted-average interest rate of our long-term debt outstanding was 7.9% in the first six months of 2012 and 8.2% in the first six months of 2011 .

Other Income (Expense) Following are the components of Other Income (Expense) for the first six months of 2012 and 2011 :

Debt refinancing and redemption costs In the first six months of 2011, we expensed $3.1 million of unamortized debt issuance costs, discount and prepayment premiums related to the voluntary prepayment of $42.5 million of our 9.25% Notes and the termination of our Second Lien Term Loan with GM.

Other Income (Expense), net Other income (expense), net, which includes the net effect of our proportionate share of earnings from equity in unconsolidated subsidiaries and foreign exchange gains and losses, was expense of $1.8 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to income of $0.3 million in the first six months of 2011 .

Income Tax Expense   Income tax expense was $3.9 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $1.9 million in the first six months of 2011 .  Our effective income tax rate was 6.6% in the first six months of 2012 as compared to 2.2% in the first six months of 2011 .  

Our income tax expense and effective tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2012 reflect the effect of recognizing a net operating loss benefit against our taxable income in the U.S . Our income tax expense for the six months ended June 30, 2012 also reflects a net tax expense of $1.3 million related to the amendment of state income tax returns as a result of the settlement of federal income tax audits for the tax years 2004 through 2007. Our income tax expense (benefit) and effective tax rate for the six months ended June 30, 2011 reflects the effect of recognizing a net operating loss benefit against our taxable income in the U.S. Our income tax expense (benefit) for the six months ended June 30, 2011 also reflects net tax benefits of $2.8 million relating to the favorable resolution of income tax audits and the reversal of state deferred tax liabilities due to newly enacted Michigan tax legislation.

In accordance with accounting guidance for income taxes, we estimate whether recoverability of our deferred tax assets is "more likely than not," based on forecasts of taxable income in the related tax jurisdictions. If, in the future, we generate taxable income on a sustained basis in the U.S. or in foreign jurisdictions for which we have recorded valuation allowances, our current estimate of the recoverability of our deferred tax assets could change and result in the future reversal of some or all of the valuation allowances. Our current low effective tax rate is primarily the result of our valuation allowance against deferred tax assets. Sustained levels of profitability are expected to lead to a reversal of the majority of our valuation allowance, which could occur as early as the fourth quarter of 2012.


25



Net Loss Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests was $0.9 million in the first six months of 2012 and $2.4 million in the first six months of 2011 . The decrease is attributable to the acquisition of the noncontrolling interest in e-AAM in the first quarter of 2012. There is no longer an allocation of net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests related to this entity.

Net Income Attributable to AAM and Earnings Per Share (EPS)   Net income attributable to AAM was $55.9 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $86.9 million in the first six months of 2011 .  Diluted earnings per share was $0.74 in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $1.15 in the first six months of 2011 .  Net income attributable to AAM and EPS for the first six months of 2012 and 2011 were primarily impacted by the factors discussed in Net Sales, Gross Profit and SG&A.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Our primary liquidity needs are to fund capital expenditures, debt service obligations, employee benefit plan obligations and our working capital requirements.  We believe that operating cash flow, available cash and cash equivalent balances and available committed borrowing capacity under our Revolving Credit Facility will be sufficient to meet these needs. 

Operating Activities   In the first six months of 2012 , net cash provided by operating activities was $24.6 million as compared to $116.5 million in the first six months of 2011 .  The following factors impacted cash provided by operating activities in the first six months of 2012 as compared to the first six months of 2011:

Standardization of payment terms As a result of a change in the administration of GM supplier payment terms, our operating cash flow was negatively impacted by approximately $28 million in the first half of 2012.

Cash paid for special charges   In the first six months of 2012 , we made cash payments of $33.2 million for special charges primarily related to asset redeployment and other costs associated with the closure of DMC and CKMF. In the first six months of 2011 , we made cash payments of $4.1 million which primarily related to leased assets that were permanently idled. We expect to make payments of approximately $3.5 million during the remainder of 2012 related to special charges and our restructuring reserve.

Interest paid Interest paid in the first six months of 2012 was $43.1 million as compared to $38.2 million in the first six months of 2011. The increase primarily relates to higher average outstanding borrowings in the first six months of 2012 as compared to the first six months of 2011.

Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits  (OPEB)   We contributed $10.6 million to our pension trusts in the first half of 2012, as compared to $8.0 million in the first half of 2011. Our regulatory pension funding requirement in 2012 is approximately $35 million. This funding requirement does not include any potential funding relief provided by the July 2012 enactment of the Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act (MAP-21) , or any additional regulatory funding required as a result of the closure of our Detroit Manufacturing Complex and Cheektowaga Manufacturing Facility.

We expect our cash outlay for other postretirement benefit obligations in 2012, net of GM cost sharing, to be approximately $16 million.
 
Investing Activities   Capital expenditures were $92.9 million in the first six months of 2012 as compared to $71.6 million in the first six months of 2011 .  We expect our capital spending in 2012 to be in the range of 6.0% to 6.5% of sales, which includes support for our significant global program launches in 2012 and 2013 within our new business backlog.

In the first six months of 2012, we received $1.2 million of proceeds related to the sale of property, plant and equipment.

Financing Activities   In the first six months of 2012 , net cash used in financing activities was $17.1 million as compared to $48.2 million in the first six months of 2011 .  Total long-term debt outstanding decreased $5.9 million in the first six months of 2012 to $1,174.3 million as compared to $1,180.2 million at year-end 2011 , primarily as a result of the net impact of borrowings and repayments on our foreign credit facilities.

In the first six months of 2011, we voluntarily redeemed 10% of our 9.25% Notes outstanding at a redemption price of 103% of the principal amount. This resulted in a principal payment of $42.5 million and a $1.3 million payment for the redemption premium, as well as a payment related to accrued interest. Upon repayment, we expensed $1.4 million for the write off of a proportional amount of unamortized debt discount and issuance costs related to this debt. We had been amortizing the debt issuance costs and debt discount over the expected life of the borrowing.

26




Pursuant to the terms of our 9.25% Notes, we now have the right to voluntarily redeem an additional 10% of our 9.25% Notes, or $42.5 million, at a price of 103% of par.

As of June 30, 2012 , the Revolving Credit Facility provided up to $86.8 million of revolving bank financing commitments through June 2013 and $235.0 million of additional revolving bank financing commitments through June 30, 2016. 

At June 30, 2012 , we had $296.9 million available under the Revolving Credit Facility.  This availability reflects a reduction of $24.9 million for standby letters of credit issued against the facility.  We also utilize foreign credit facilities and uncommitted lines of credit to finance working capital needs.  At June 30, 2012 , $39.3 million was outstanding under these facilities with additional availability of $32.6 million .

We paid debt issuance costs of $5.3 million in the first six months of 2011 related to the amendments and restatements of our Revolving Credit Agreement in 2011.

In the first six months of 2012, we paid $4.0 million to acquire the remaining shares of e-AAM Driveline Systems AB (e-AAM). e-AAM, previously a joint venture between AAM and Saab Automobile AB, was created to design and commercialize electric all-wheel-drive (eAWD) systems designed to improve fuel efficiency, reduce CO2 emissions and provide all-wheel-drive capability.

In the first six months of 2012, we repurchased 0.5 million shares of AAM common stock for $5.9 million to satisfy employee tax withholding obligations due upon the vesting of our 2007 and 2009 restricted stock grants.

We received $0.1 million in the first six months of 2012 related to the exercise of employee stock options.

CYCLICALITY AND SEASONALITY

Our operations are cyclical because they are directly related to worldwide automotive production, which is itself cyclical and dependent on general economic conditions and other factors.  Our business is also moderately seasonal as our major OEM customers historically have an extended shutdown of operations (typically 1-2 weeks) in conjunction with their model year changeover and an approximate one-week shutdown in December.  Accordingly, our quarterly results may reflect these trends.

LITIGATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL MATTERS

We are involved in various legal proceedings incidental to our business.  Although the outcome of these matters cannot be predicted with certainty, we do not believe that any of these matters, individually or in the aggregate, will have a material adverse effect on our financial condition, results of operations or cash flows.

We are subject to various federal, state, local and foreign environmental and occupational safety and health laws, regulations and ordinances, including those regulating air emissions, water discharge, waste management and environmental cleanup. We will continue to closely monitor our environmental conditions to ensure that we are in compliance with all laws, regulations and ordinances.  We have made, and will continue to make, capital and other expenditures (including recurring administrative costs) to comply with environmental requirements.  Such expenditures were not significant in the second quarter of 2012 , and we do not expect such expenditures to be significant for the remainder of 2012 .

In February 2012, the International UAW filed suit in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan, alleging that AAM violated certain provisions of the collective bargaining agreement covering represented hourly associates at the Detroit Manufacturing Complex and Cheektowaga Manufacturing Facility related to pension and postretirement benefits. As a result of the potential impact from the enactment of MAP-21 on this litigation, we recorded an actuarially determined expense of $28.1 million in cost of goods sold in the second quarter of 2012.  This charge represents our actuarial estimate of the cost of the pension and postretirement benefits that would have to be provided to eligible UAW associates if the International UAW were to prevail in this litigation. 

AAM disputes these claims and continues to defend the lawsuit vigorously. Additional facts and circumstances may continue to develop in the future that could have a significant impact on our estimates, including changes in discount rates and other actuarial assumptions.


27



Item 3.  Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk

MARKET RISK

Our business and financial results are affected by fluctuations in world financial markets, including interest rates and currency exchange rates.  Our hedging policy has been developed to manage these risks to an acceptable level based on management’s judgment of the appropriate trade-off between risk, opportunity and cost.  We do not hold financial instruments for trading or speculative purposes.

Currency Exchange Risk   From time to time, we use foreign currency forward contracts to reduce the effects of fluctuations in exchange rates, primarily relating to the Mexican Peso, Euro, Pound Sterling and Brazilian Real.  At June 30, 2012 , we had currency forward contracts with a notional amount of $54.8 million outstanding.  The potential decrease in fair value of foreign exchange contracts, assuming a 10% adverse change in the foreign currency exchange rates, would be approximately $5.0 million at June 30, 2012 .

Future business operations and opportunities, including the expansion of our business outside North America, may further increase the risk that cash flows resulting from these activities may be adversely affected by changes in currency exchange rates.  If and when appropriate, we intend to manage these risks by utilizing local currency funding of these expansions and various types of foreign exchange contracts.

Interest Rate Risk   We are exposed to variable interest rates on certain credit facilities.  From time to time, we have used interest rate hedging to reduce the effects of fluctuations in market interest rates.  As of June 30, 2012 , there are no interest rate swaps in place.  The pre-tax earnings and cash flow impact of a one-percentage-point increase in interest rates (approximately 12% of our weighted-average interest rate at June 30, 2012 ) on our long-term debt outstanding at June 30, 2012 would be approximately $0.3 million on an annualized basis.

Item 4.  Controls and Procedures

Under the direction of our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer, we evaluated our disclosure controls and procedures and internal control over financial reporting and concluded that (1) our disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rules 13a-15(e) or 15d-15(e) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the “Exchange Act”)) were effective as of June 30, 2012 , and (2) no change in internal control over financial reporting occurred during the quarter ended June 30, 2012 that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, our internal control over financial reporting.  


PART II.  OTHER  INFORMATION

Item 1A. Risk Factors

There were no material changes from the risk factors previously disclosed in our December 31, 2011 Form 10-K.


28



Item 2. Unregistered Sales of Equity Securities and Use of Proceeds

In the second quarter of 2012, we withheld and repurchased shares of AAM stock to satisfy employee tax withholding obligations due upon the vesting of restricted stock. The following table provides information about our equity security purchases during the quarter ended June, 30, 2012:

ISSUER PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES
Period
 
Total Number of Shares (Or Units) Purchased
 
Average Price Paid per Share (or Unit)
 
Total Number of Shares (or Units) Purchased as Part of Publicly Announced Plans or Programs
 
Maximum Number (or Approximate Dollar Value) of Shares (or Units) that May Yet Be Purchased Under the Plans or Programs
April 1 - April 30, 2012
 
2,180

 
$
10.65

 

 

May 1 - May 31, 2012
 

 

 

 

June 1 - June 30, 2012
 

 

 

 

Total
 
2,180

 
$
10.65

 

 




Item 5.  Other Information

Supplemental Executive Retirement Plan Amendment On July 26, 2012, the Board of Directors of American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. approved and adopted certain amendments to the American Axle & Manufacturing, inc. Supplemental Executive Retirement Program (the “Plan”) effective August 1, 2012. The Plan is a defined benefit supplemental executive retirement plan that provides retirement benefits to supplement the amounts eligible employees receive from the frozen AAM Retirement Program for Salaried Employees and the AAM Salaried Savings (401(k)) Plan.

The Plan was amended in order to implement actuarial increases for participants who remain employed after reaching age 65, update certain defined terms related to benefit calculations, add a forfeiture provision in the event a participant is terminated for Cause (as defined in the Plan), and incorporate interim amendments to the Plan since the 2007 Plan restatement. The Plan, as amended and restated effective August 1, 2012, is attached as Exhibit 10.37.

Item 6.  Exhibits
 
Exhibits required by Item 601 of Regulation S-K are listed in the Exhibit Index.

29



SIGNATURES
 
 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

 
 
  AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING HOLDINGS, INC.
(Registrant)

 
 
 
 
 
/s/ Michael K. Simonte
Michael K. Simonte
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
(also in the capacity of Chief Accounting Officer)
July 27, 2012


30



EXHIBIT INDEX


Number
 
Description of Exhibit
 
 
 
*10.37
 
American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. Amended and Restated Supplemental Executive Retirement Program Plan Document
 
 
 
 *31.1
 
Certification of Richard E. Dauch, Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act
 
 
 
 *31.2
 
Certification of Michael K. Simonte, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to Rule 13a-14(a) of the Securities Exchange Act
 
 
 
 *32
 
Certifications of Richard E. Dauch, Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer and Michael K. Simonte, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer Pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as Adopted Pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002
 
 
 
**101.INS
 
XBRL Instance Document
 
 
 
**101.SCH
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document
 
 
 
**101.CAL
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document
 
 
 
**101.LAB
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document
 
 
 
**101.PRE
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document
 
 
 
**101.DEF
 
XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document
 
*    Filed herewith
  **    Submitted electronically with this Report.
 

31


AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING, INC.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT PROGRAM


AMENDED AND RESTATED PLAN DOCUMENT

EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, 2012






TABLE OF CONTENTS
 
 
Page
ARTICLE I
INTRODUCTION
1
1.1
Purpose of Plan
1
1.2
Top Hat Pension Benefit Plan
1
1.3
Funding
1
1.4
Effective Date
1
 
 
 
ARTICLE II
DEFINITIONS
2
2.1
Actuarial Equivalent Value.
2
2.2
Average Monthly Base Salary
2
2.3
Average Monthly Incentive Compensation
3
2.4
Average Total Direct Compensation
3
2.5
Base Salary
3
2.6
Board of Directors
3
2.7
Cash Balance Benefit
3
2.8
Cause
4
2.9
Code
4
2.10
Compensation Committee
4
2.11
Corporation
4
2.12
Credited Service
4
2.13
Disability
5
2.14
Employee
5
2.15
ERISA
6
2.16
Final Average Compensation
7
2.17
Frozen Benefit
7
2.18
Grandfathered Participant
7
2.19
Health Care Program
7
2.20
Joint and Survivor Annuity
8
2.21
Management Benefits Committee
8
2.22
Non-Grandfathered Participant
8
2.23
Participant
8
2.24
Salaried Savings Plan
8
2.25
Salaried Retirement Plan
8
2.26
Specified Employee
9
2.27
Spouse
9
 
 
 
ARTICLE III
PARTICIPATION AND ELIGIBILITY
9
3.1
Participation
9
3.2
Eligibility for Retirement Benefits
9
3.3
Eligibility for Pre-Retirement Surviving Spouse Benefits
10
 
 
 

i.


ARTICLE IV
BENEFITS
11
4.1
Current Benefit Formula
11
4.2
Prior Benefit Formula
11
4.3
Time and Form of Payment of Benefits
14
4.4
Pre-Retirement Surviving Spouse Benefit
16
4.5
Terms, Conditions and Limitations
16
 
 
 
ARTICLE V
ADMINISTRATION
17
5.1
Management Benefits Committee
17
5.2
Administrator
18
5.3
Compensation
18
5.4
Agent for Service of Process
18
5.5
Indemnification
19
 
 
 
ARTICLE VI
CLAIMS PROCEDURE
19
6.1
Filing of Claim
19
6.2
Denial of Claim
19
6.3
Appeal
20
6.4
Review of Appeal
20
6.5
Decision on Appeal
21
 
 
 
ARTICLE VII
MISCELLANEOUS
22
7.1
No Contract of Employment
22
7.2
Non-Assignability of Benefits
22
7.3
Withholding
22
7.4
Amendment and Termination
22
7.5
No Fiduciary Relationship Created
23
7.6
Unsecured General Creditor Status of Employee
23
7.7
Severability
23
7.8
Offset
23
7.9
Intent to Comply with IRC Section 409A
24
7.10
Governing Laws
24
7.11
Binding Effect
24
7.12
Number and Gender
24
7.13
Headings
24
7.14
Entire Agreement
24







ii.


ARTICLE I
INTRODUCTION


American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. (the "Corporation") previously adopted and maintains the AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING, INC. SUPPLEMENTAL EXECUTIVE RETIREMENT PROGRAM (the "Plan") for the purpose of providing supplemental retirement benefits to employees who are eligible under the terms and conditions of this Plan. The Plan has been amended from time to time. The Plan is hereby amended and restated effective August 1, 2012, as follows.

1.1    Purpose of Plan.

The purpose of the Plan is to provide eligible employees of the Corporation a level of retirement benefits that result in total benefits which are competitive with benefits available to retiring executives of other major industrial companies.

1.2    "Top Hat" Pension Benefit Plan.     

The Plan is an "employee pension benefit plan" within the meaning of ERISA. However, the Plan is unfunded and maintained for a select group of management or highly compensated employees and, therefore, it is intended that the Plan will be exempt from Parts 2, 3 and 4 of Title I of ERISA. The Plan is not intended to qualify under Code Section 401(a).

1.3
Funding.

The Plan is unfunded. All benefits will be paid from the general assets of the Corporation, although assets may, but are not required to be placed in a grantor trust, of which the Corporation is the grantor, within the meaning of subpart E, Part I, subchapter 1, subtitle A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and shall be construed accordingly. Participants have no ownership, either actual or beneficial, in the assets of the trust so the trust shall not affect the unfunded status of the Plan.

1.4
Effective Date.

The original effective date of the Plan was March 1, 1994. The Effective Date of the Plan as amended and restated is August 1, 2012.





1



ARTICLE II
DEFINITIONS

For purposes of the Plan, the following words and phrases shall have the respective meanings set forth below, unless their context clearly requires a different meaning:

2.1    Actuarial Equivalent Value.     

“Actuarial Equivalent Value” for purposes of calculating the actuarial increase for a Participant who remains employed on or after attainment of age 65 means a benefit of equal value when computed on the basis of the discount rate and a unisex version of the mortality table used to calculate the Plan’s obligations as disclosed in the Corporation’s audited financial statements for the year ended immediately prior to the year for which the actuarial increase is being calculated.

“Actuarial Equivalent Value” for all other purposes under the Plan means:

(a)
In the case of a benefit payable pursuant to the Salaried Retirement Plan, a benefit of equal value when computed on the basis of RP 2000 Unisex Mortality Table with white collar adjustments and projected improvements to 2020 using scale AA and interest rate assumption of 6.0%; and

(b)
In the case of a Cash Balance Benefit, the hypothetical value of the Participant’s Cash Balance Account under the Salaried Retirement Plan.

2.2
Average Monthly Base Salary.

"Average Monthly Base Salary" means the monthly average of the Employee's Base Salary for the highest 60 of the 120 months immediately preceding the earlier of (i) his or her termination of employment, or (ii) in the case of a Grandfathered Participant, December 31, 2011. For purposes of determining "Average Monthly Base Salary", the following provisions shall apply:

(a)
For any month for which the Employee received Base Salary at less than his or her full monthly Base Salary rate, his or her full monthly Base Salary rate last received preceding such month shall be used for such month.

(b)
For any month during which an Employee was on the hourly payroll and subsequent to which the Employee commenced service as a salaried Employee, his or her monthly Base Salary rate immediately following the commencement of such service as a salaried Employee shall be used for such month.

2



2.3
Average Monthly Incentive Compensation.

"Average Monthly Incentive Compensation" means the amount determined by DIVIDING the total of the highest five of the last ten years of annual incentive awards by the Corporation to an Employee immediately preceding (i) his or her termination of employment, or (ii) in the case of a Grandfathered Participant, December 31, 2011 by 60. The annual incentive amount is to be based on the total annual incentive amount on the date of the award, irrespective of whether any portion of such award is deferred. Annual incentive awards related to an Employee's year of retirement are not taken into account. If an Employee does not have five years of awards, then a $0 award will be used for each year necessary to make a total of five years. For purposes of calculating Average Monthly Incentive Compensation, annual incentive awards do not include special or one-time payments intended to compensate Employees for specific purposes.

2.4      Average Total Direct Compensation.     

"Average Total Direct Compensation" means the sum of Average Monthly Base Salary plus Average Monthly Incentive Compensation.

2.5
Base Salary.     

"Base Salary" means the salary paid by the Corporation for a work week of not more than 40 hours, exclusive of any other compensation.

An Employee's Base Salary for purposes of determining benefits paid under this Plan shall include elective deferrals of Base Salary pursuant to (i) a cash or deferred arrangement under Code Section 401(k) as provided under the Salaried Savings Plan, (ii) an arrangement under Code Section 125 or 132(f)(4); and (iii) under the American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. Executive Deferred Compensation Plan.

2.6      Board of Directors.     

"Board of Directors" means the Board of Directors of American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. for all references under the Plan except as specifically stated otherwise.

2.7      Cash Balance Benefit.     

"Cash Balance Benefit" means the benefit accrued under the Cash Balance portion of the Salaried Retirement Plan. The American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. and Affiliated Corporation Salaried Cash Balance Pension Plan was merged into the Salaried Retirement Plan on December 31, 2011.


3


2.8
Cause.     

For purposes of this Agreement, “Cause” shall mean the termination of the Employee’s employment because of:
(a)
the willful and continued failure or refusal of the Employee to perform the duties reasonably required of him/her by the Corporation;
(b)
the Employee’s conviction of, or plea of nolo contendere to, (i) any felony or (ii) another crime involving dishonesty or moral turpitude or which reflects negatively upon the Corporation or otherwise impairs or impedes its operations;
(c)
the Employee's engaging in any misconduct, negligence, act of dishonesty, violence or threat of violence (including any violation of federal securities laws) that is injurious to the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates;
(d)
the Employee's material breach of (i) any non-competition or non-solicitation agreement with the Corporation or (ii) a written policy of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates; or
(e)
any other willful misconduct by the Employee which is injurious to the financial condition or business reputation of the Corporation or any of its subsidiaries or affiliates.
2.9
Code.     

"Code" means the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Reference to a section of the Code shall include that section and any comparable section or sections of any future legislation that amends, supplements or supersedes that section.

2.10
Compensation Committee.     

"Compensation Committee" means the Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.

2.11
Corporation.     

"Corporation" means American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc.

2.12
Credited Service.     

"Credited Service" shall have the same meaning as that term is defined in Section 6.2 of the Salaried Retirement Plan for periods of service through (a) December 31, 2006 for all Non-Grandfathered Participants, and (b) December 31, 2011 for Grandfathered Participants. Credited Service for periods after the December 31, 2006 and December 31, 2011 freeze dates means the period commencing on

4


January 1, 2007 (for Non-Grandfathered Participants) and January 1, 2012 (for Grandfathered Participants) and ending on the date of Employee’s death, Disability or termination of employment. If an Employee completes service after the freeze date, incurs a separation from service and is subsequently rehired by the Corporation, Credited Service shall not include periods of service prior to the most recent rehire date. Credited Service shall not include any period of service completed after the freeze date while on the payroll of a non-domestic entity related to the Corporation.

Notwithstanding any provision of this Plan or the Salaried Retirement Plan to the contrary, a Transitioned Employee (as defined in the Salaried Retirement Plan) shall receive credit for Credited Service with General Motors Corporation for purposes of determining such Employee's eligibility for benefits under the Plan, but not for purposes of determining the amount of such Employee's benefit. For purposes of calculating a benefit under Section 4.1 of this Plan, “Credited Service” shall not include leaves of absence or breaks in service.

Notwithstanding any provisions of this Plan to the contrary, effective January 1, 2010, Richard E. Dauch shall be credited with twenty years of Credited Service with the Corporation for purposes of calculating his benefit under Section 4.1 and Section 4.2 of the Plan. After January 1, 2010, Richard E. Dauch’s Credited Service under Section 4.1 and Section 4.2 of this Plan shall increase to the extent he is credited with additional Credited Service under the American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. Retirement Program for Salaried Employees, for service on or after January 1, 2010.

2.13
Disability.     

"Disability" means an Employee who is considered disabled under the terms and conditions of the Corporation’s disability program for salaried associates as such program may be amended from time to time.

2.14
Employee.     

"Employee" means:

(a)
General Definition . “Employee” shall mean a regular employee of the Corporation compensated by salary or by commission who is (i) working in the United States, or (ii) a citizen of or domiciled in the United States and who has been or may hereafter be hired in the United States by the Corporation and who is sent out of the United States by the Corporation to work in foreign operations, and whose services, if discontinued, would be discontinued by recalling said employee to the United States and terminating his or her services in the United States and (iii) a nonresident alien receiving income from the Corporation’s United States payroll.

5



(b)
Temporary, Part-Time and Flexible Service Employees . The term “Employee” shall not include employees who are classified by the Corporation as (i) Temporary Employees, including per diem employees, (ii) Part-Time Employees, or (iii) Flexible Service Employees.

(c)
Service with Controlled Group Members . An Employee’s service with non-domestic members of the Corporation’s controlled group (as defined in Code Section 414(b) and (c)) shall be counted for eligibility purposes but not for benefit accrual purposes.

(d)
Leased Employees . The term “Employee” shall not include any Leased Employee (within the meaning of Code Section 414(n)) or any individual classified as a Leased Employee by the Corporation. If a Leased Employee later becomes an Employee, service as a Leased Employee shall be counted under this Plan for eligibility purposes.

(e)
Union Employees . The term “Employee” shall not include employees represented by a labor organization who are covered by a collective bargaining agreement so long as retirement benefits are the subject of good faith bargaining and so long as the collective bargaining agreement does not expressly provide for participation in this Plan.

(f)
Directors . The term “Employee” shall not include members of the Board of Directors of American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc., or of any committee appointed by such board, who are not regular employees of the Corporation.

(g)
Independent Contractors . The term “Employee” shall not include an independent contractor or any individual classified as an independent contractor by the Corporation regardless of any later classification or reclassification of any such individual as a common law employee of the Corporation.

2.15
ERISA.

“ERISA” means the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended.

6



2.16
Final Average Compensation.     

“Final Average Compensation” means the annual average of the Employee’s Base Salary plus annual incentive awards from the Corporation for the five consecutive calendar years that results in the highest such average for the Participant. If the Employee has less than 5 full calendar years of employment, only his or her full calendar years of employment shall be used to determine the Employee’s Final Average Compensation. Final Average Compensation shall not include certain special payments or one-time payments intended to compensate Employees for specific purposes.

2.17
Frozen Benefit.     

Frozen Benefit” means, in the case of a Grandfathered Participant, his or her accrued benefit under this Plan determined as of December 31, 2011.

2.18    Grandfathered Participant.     

The term “Grandfathered Participant” means an individual who (i) was actively employed by the Corporation on December 31, 2006, (ii) was an active Participant in this Plan and in the Salaried Retirement Plan on December 31, 2006, and (iii) if he or she continued in the employ of the Corporation on a full-time basis, was eligible for Early or Normal Retirement under the Salaried Retirement Plan on or before December 1, 2011.

2.19
Health Care Program.     

"Health Care Program" means the American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. group health and welfare benefits plans for salaried employees as such program is amended from time to time.

7



2.20
Joint and Survivor Annuity.     

"Joint and Survivor Annuity" means an immediate annuity which provides a reduced benefit for the life of the Employee with a survivor annuity for the life of the Employee's Spouse equal to 65% of the amount of the annuity which is payable during the life of the Employee. The reduced benefit payable for the life of the Employee shall be an amount equal to the benefit otherwise payable to the Employee under Article IV of this Plan multiplied by 95% provided the age of the Employee and his or her Spouse is within five years of each other. If an Employee's Spouse is five or more years younger than the Employee, the multiplier of 95% is decreased by 1/2% for each full year over five years that the Spouse is younger than the Employee, and if such Spouse is five or more years older than the Employee, the multiplier of 95% shall be increased by 1/2%, but not to exceed 100%, for each full year over five years that the Spouse is older than the Employee. Grandfathered Participants whose benefits are calculated under Section 4.2 shall have the same joint and survivor annuity options available under this Plan as are available under Sections 8.1 and 8.2 of the Salaried Retirement Plan.

2.21
Management Benefits Committee.     

"Management Benefits Committee" means the committee appointed pursuant to Section 5.1.

2.22    Non-Grandfathered Participant.

The term “Non-Grandfathered Participant” means any Participant in the Plan who is not a Grandfathered Participant.

2.23    Participant .

“Participant” means an Employee meeting the requirements of Article III.

2.24    Salaried Savings Plan.

“Salaried Savings Plan” means the American Axle and Manufacturing, Inc. Salaried Savings Plan, as such plan is amended from time to time.

2.25
Salaried Retirement Plan.     

"Salaried Retirement Plan" means the American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. Retirement Program for Salaried Employees, as such plan is amended from time to time.

8



2.26
Specified Employee.     

"Specified Employee" means a key employee as defined in Section 416(i) of the Code without regard to paragraph (5) thereof.

2.27
Spouse.     

"Spouse" means the legally married husband or wife of an Employee. The legality of the marriage shall be determined pursuant to the laws of the state in which the Employee is domiciled.

ARTICLE III
PARTICIPATION AND ELIGIBILITY

3.1
Participation.

The Corporation shall designate each Employee who is eligible to participate in the Plan. Only Employees who are in a select group of management or highly compensated employees (within the meaning of Title I of ERISA) may be designated as eligible to participate in the Plan.

3.2    Eligibility for Retirement Benefits.     

The Management Benefits Committee shall determine each Employee’s eligibility for benefits under this Plan.

(a)
Eligibility Criteria . To be eligible for a benefit under Section IV of this Plan, an Employee must:

(1)
Be defined as Unclassified, as such term is defined by the Corporation, and be an active employee of the Corporation or an affiliated entity on his or her date of death, retirement or commencement of his or her Disability;

(2)
Be credited with 10 or more years of Credited Service;

(3)
Have attained age 55 at the time of his or her retirement, death or commencement of his or her Disability; and

(4)
Not have been terminated by the Corporation for Cause.

9



An individual shall not be deemed to be actively employed if he or she is laid off or on a leave of absence. The term “retirement” means the date an Employee has terminated employment with the Corporation (or a related entity). The term “retirement” is intended to constitute a separation from service under Code Section 409A and regulations issued thereunder.

(b)
Non-Grandfathered Participant .    A Non-Grandfathered Participant shall, upon meeting the requirements set forth in Section 3.1(a), be eligible for a benefit determined pursuant to Section 4.1.

(c)
Grandfathered Participant . A Grandfathered Participant who continued in the employ of the Corporation after December 31, 2011 shall, upon meeting the requirements of Section 3.1, be eligible for the greater of:

(1)
his or her benefit determined pursuant to Section 4.1;

(2)
his or her Frozen Benefit under the Basic Benefit formula determined pursuant to Section 4.2(a); or

(3)
if he or she shall have attained age 62 at the time of his or her retirement , death or commencement of his or her Disability, his or her Frozen Benefit under the Alternative Benefit formula determined pursuant to Section 4.2(c).
    
3.3
Eligibility for Pre-Retirement Surviving Spouse Benefits.

The Spouse of an Employee who is eligible for a benefit who dies before benefit payments begin will be entitled to receive benefit payments in accordance with Sections 4.3 and 4.4.

10



ARTICLE IV
BENEFITS

4.1      Current Benefit Formula.

In the case of a Non-Grandfathered Participant retiring on or after December 31, 2006, he or she shall receive a benefit equal to 12.5% of his or her Final Average Compensation times the Participant’s years of Credited Service, less the sum of:

(a)
The lump sum Actuarial Equivalent Value of his or her benefits payable pursuant the Salaried Retirement Plan including the Cash Balance Benefit, and

(b)
The Participant’s AAM Retirement Contribution Account established pursuant to Section 3.2(b) of the Salaried Savings Plan, plus the Participant’s Account established to credit any employer contributions made under the Salaried Savings Plan which replaces or supplements the AAM Retirement Contributions. The market value of a Participant’s Account(s) shall be determined as of the date of a Participant’s retirement, death or Disability and shall include earnings credited to such Account(s).

4.2    Prior Benefit Formula .    

In the case of a Grandfathered Participant who retires, dies or becomes disabled after December 31, 2011, such Grandfathered Participant’s benefit shall be the greater of the benefit calculated under Section 4.1 or the Grandfathered Participant’s Frozen Benefit under this Section 4.2. Service completed after December 31, 2011 shall not be included in calculating Credited Service under this Section 4.2. Compensation earned after December 31, 2011 shall not be included in calculating Average Monthly Base Salary or Average Total Direct Compensation under this Section 4.2.

(a)
Amount of Basic Benefit . The Basic Benefit shall, subject to Section 4.2(b), be a monthly benefit equal to 2% of a Participant’s Average Monthly Base Salary (calculated as of December 31, 2011) multiplied by his or her years of Credited Service (calculated as of December 31, 2011), less the sum of:

(1)
All monthly benefits payable to the eligible Employee under the Salaried Retirement Plan, including the Cash Balance Benefit, before reduction for any survivor option, plus

(2)
2% of the eligible Employee's monthly age 65 primary Social Security benefit multiplied by his or her years of Credited Service.

11



For purposes of calculating Basic Benefits, the following shall apply:

(i)
The monthly age 65 primary Social Security benefit will be determined and applied to the Basic Benefit formula at death or retirement, regardless of the Employee's age at death or retirement and regardless of the Employee's eligibility for Social Security benefits.

(ii)
The monthly age 65 primary Social Security benefit will be determined at death or retirement using the maximum monthly Social Security benefit amount payable at age 65 in the year the Employee retires or dies.

(b)
Rules Applicable to Basic Benefits .

(1)
At age 62 and one month, for those retiring prior to age 62 with a Basic Benefit, the Basic Benefit will not be redetermined when Temporary Benefits or supplements under the Salaried Retirement Plan are reduced or eliminated.

(2)
The "Special" benefit (Part B Medicare reimbursement) paid under the Health Care Plan will not be taken into account in determining any monthly benefit amount payable under Section 4.2(a).

(3)
Post-retirement increases under the Salaried Retirement Plan will not reduce any monthly benefit amount payable under this Section 4.2(a).

(4)
The award or denial of a Social Security disability insurance benefit that affects the monthly amount of benefits payable under the Salaried Retirement Plan will be taken into account in determining any monthly benefit amount payable under Section 4.2(a). However, any subsequent modification of a Social Security disability insurance benefit will not be taken into account in determining the monthly benefit amount payable under Section 4.2(a).

12



(c)
Amount of Alternative Benefit . The Alternative Benefit shall, subject to Section 4.2(d), be a monthly benefit equal to 1.5% of a Participant’s Average Total Direct Compensation (calculated as of December 31, 2011), multiplied by his or her years of Credited Service (determined as of December 31, 2011), less the sum of:

(1)
All monthly benefits determined under the terms of the Salaried Retirement Plan, including the Cash Balance Benefit, before reduction for any survivor option, plus

(2)
100% of the maximum monthly age 65 primary Social Security benefit.

For purposes of calculating Alternative Benefits, the following shall apply:

(i)
Differing time periods over the last 10 years of employment with the Corporation may be used for the blended calculation of Average Monthly Base Salary and Average Monthly Incentive Compensation, both calculated as of December 31, 2011.

(ii)
The monthly age 65 primary Social Security benefit is the monthly age 65 primary Social Security benefit payable in the year of the Employee's death or retirement, regardless of the Employee's age at such time and regardless of the Employee's eligibility for Social Security benefits.

(iii)
The monthly age 65 primary Social Security benefit will not be redetermined for any subsequent Social Security increase.

(d)
Rules Applicable to Alternative Benefits .

(1)
Post-retirement increases under the Salaried Retirement Plan will not reduce any monthly benefit amount payable under Section 4.2(c).

(2)
The "Special" benefit (Part B Medicare reimbursement) payable under the Health Care Program will not be taken into account in determining any monthly benefit amount payable under Section 4.2(c).

13



(e)
Late Retirement . If a participant remains employed after attaining age 65, the amount of benefit accrued in a calendar year will be the greater of (i) the benefit determined pursuant to Section 4 but without regard to this Section 4.2(e), or (ii) the accrued benefit at the end of the prior calendar year, actuarially increased to the end of the current calendar year, or, if earlier, to the date of retirement, death or disability. Actuarial increases for late retirement shall be calculated on the basis of the discount rate and a unisex version of the mortality table used to calculate the Plan’s obligations as disclosed in the Corporation’s audited financial statements for the year ended immediately prior to the year for which the actuarial increase is being calculated.

4.3
Time and Form of Payment of Benefits.

(a)
Lump Sum Payment . Payments to (i) Non-Grandfathered Participants pursuant to Section 4.1, and (ii) Grandfathered Participants entitled to benefits pursuant to Section 4.1, will be paid in a lump sum payment. The lump sum payment shall be made six months after the date of the Participant’s separation from service. If the Participant dies prior to the receipt of his or her benefits pursuant to Section 4.1, the Spouse will receive a death benefit equal to the amount payable to the Participant. The death benefit shall be payable in one lump sum as soon as practicable after the death of the Participant. If a Participant is not survived by his Spouse, his or her benefits will be forfeited. No interest shall accrue on the lump sum payment for the six month period from the separation of service date to the payment distribution date.

(b)
Annuity Payments to Grandfathered Participants . A Grandfathered Participant entitled to benefits pursuant to Section 4.2 shall have his or her benefits paid in an annuity form as follows:

(1)
Commencement of Benefits . Benefit payments shall commence as soon as practicable after an Employee separates from service with the Corporation (or a related entity); provided, however, that the portion of a Specified Employee's benefit that was not vested within the meaning of Code Section 409A on December 31, 2004, may not be paid to the Employee before the date which is six months after the date of separation from service. A Specified Employee’s annuity for the post-December 31, 2004 benefits shall commence at the beginning of the seventh month following his or her separation from service date and shall include applicable payments for the previous six months. Any portion of the benefit payments which are deferred for six months shall not be adjusted for interest.

14



(2)
Single Life Annuity . Except as provided in Section 4.3(b)(3), or Section 4.3(c), an Employee entitled to a Basic Benefit or an Alternative Benefit will receive his or her benefit in the form of a single life annuity for the Employee's lifetime. Notwithstanding the foregoing, benefits are paid in accordance with the Corporation’s payroll cycle for salaried employees and all payments are subject to the restrictions and risk of forfeiture under Section 4.5(a) and (b) and Section 7.6.

(3)
Automatic Survivor Benefit .

(A)
Basic Benefit . An Employee entitled to a Basic Benefit or Alternative Benefit who has a Spouse who is otherwise eligible for survivor benefits under the Salaried Retirement Plan on the commencement date for benefits under this Plan, will receive his or her benefit determined in the form of a Joint and Survivor Annuity.

(B)
Alternative Benefit . An Employee who (i) has attained age 62 or such earlier age specified in a special separation program, (ii) has been credited with 10 or more years of Credited Service, and (iii) on the date Alternative Benefits begin, has a Spouse who is otherwise eligible for survivor benefits under the Salaried Retirement Plan on the commencement date for benefits under this Plan, will receive his or her benefit in the form of a Joint and Survivor Annuity.

(C)
Loss of Spouse Due to Death or Divorce . If an Employee who is receiving a Joint and Survivor Annuity loses his or her Spouse due to death or divorce, the Employee’s Basic or Alternative Benefit, as applicable, will be recalculated on a prospective basis in the form of a single life annuity under Section 4.3(b)(2) assuming the Corporation is notified of such death or divorce within 90 days of such event. If the Employee subsequently remarries, no Joint and Survivor Annuity is permitted for the Employee and his or her new spouse.

15



(c)
Exception for Small Benefits . Notwithstanding anything in this Section 4.3 to the contrary, if, upon separation from service or at any subsequent date during the annuity payment period, the value of the Employee’s Plan benefit, when aggregated with the value of the Employee’s benefit under any other nonqualified non-elective defined benefit plan sponsored by the Corporation or its controlled group members, does not exceed the then annual limit set forth in Code Section 402(g)(1)(B) ($17,000 in 2012), the Employee’s benefits in all such non-elective defined benefit plans shall be terminated and liquidated in their entirety, in the form of a lump sum cash payment within 90 days following the Employee’s separation from service.

4.4
Pre-Retirement Surviving Spouse Benefit.     

(a)
Current Benefit Formula . The pre-retirement surviving spouse benefit payable pursuant to Section 4.1 to an eligible Spouse shall be equal to the Participant’s benefit calculated pursuant to Section 4.1 and shall be payable in one lump sum payment as soon as administratively practicable following the Participant’s death.

(b)
Prior Benefit Formula . The pre-retirement surviving spouse benefit payable to the eligible spouse of a Grandfathered Participant pursuant to Sections 4.2(a) or (c) shall equal the amount that the Spouse would have been entitled to receive under the Joint and Survivor Annuity if the Employee had retired with an immediate Joint and Survivor Annuity on the day before his death. In the event that an Employee is eligible for both a Basic Benefit and an Alternative Benefit on his date of death, the Pre-Retirement Surviving Spouse Benefit will equal the Pre-Retirement Surviving Spouse Benefit based on the greater of the Employee's Basic Benefit or the Employee’s Alternative Benefit.

4.5
Terms and Conditions.

(a)
Benefits Not Guaranteed . Benefits payable under Article IV are not guaranteed and may be reduced or eliminated at any time, and from time to time, by the Compensation Committee, the Management Benefits Committee or the Board of Directors. No prior notice is required.

(b)
Forfeiture Upon Termination For Cause . Notwithstanding any provision in the Plan to the contrary, an Employee whose employment is terminated for Cause shall forfeit all rights to benefits under the Plan.


16



ARTICLE V
ADMINISTRATION

5.1
Management Benefits Committee.

The Compensation Committee shall appoint a Management Benefits Committee for the Plan.

(a)
Appointment and Removal of Management Benefits Committee . The Management Benefits Committee shall consist of three or more individuals appointed by, and serving at the discretion of, the Compensation Committee. A member of the Management Benefits Committee may (i) resign upon 30 days written notice to the Compensation Committee, or (ii) be removed from the Management Benefits Committee at any time at the discretion of the Compensation Committee.

(b)
Decisions by Management Benefits Committee . The Management Benefits Committee shall act by majority vote either at a meeting of the Management Benefits Committee or by written consent. Meetings may be attended telephonically.

(c)
Authority . The Management Benefits Committee shall have the following duties and authority under the Plan.

(1)
Compliance . The Management Benefits Committee shall monitor the performance of the Plan to ensure that the Plan is administered in accordance with its terms and in compliance with applicable law or regulation.

(2)
Discretionary Authority . The Management Benefits Committee shall have full and exclusive discretionary authority to determine all questions arising in the administration, application and interpretation of the Plan including the authority to correct any defect or reconcile any inconsistency or ambiguity in the Plan and the authority to determine an Employee's or other individual’s eligibility to receive a benefit from the Plan and the amount of that benefit. The Management Benefits Committee shall determine all Claims appeals as set forth in Section 6.5 of this Plan and shall have the authority to determine all questions of fact relating to such an appeal. Any determination by the Management Benefits Committee pursuant to this Section 5.1(c)(2) or the Claims Procedure shall be binding and conclusive on all parties.

(3)
Plan Amendments . The Management Benefits Committee shall have the authority to make such Plan amendments as long as such amendments do not have a significant cost impact to the Corporation.

17



(4)
Adoption of Plan . The Management Benefits Committee may provide for the adoption of the Plan by an affiliated employer pursuant to such terms and conditions as the Management Benefits Committee, in its discretion, may determine. The Management Benefits Committee shall have the right to remove an affiliated employer as a Plan sponsor if, in its discretion, it deems such removal to be appropriate.

5.2    Administrator.

The Corporation shall be the Plan Administrator. The American Axle & Manufacturing, Inc. Corporate Benefits Group shall act on its behalf and perform the duties of the Administrator as set forth herein. The Administrator shall administer the Plan in accordance with all applicable laws and regulations and, except as otherwise expressly provided to the contrary herein, shall have all powers and discretionary authority to carry out that obligation. Specifically, but not by way of limitation, the Administrator shall:

(a)
Procedures and Forms . Establish such administrative procedures and prepare, or cause to be prepared, such forms, as may be necessary or desirable for the proper administration of the Plan;

(b)
Advisors . Retain the services of such consultants and advisors as may be appropriate to the administration of the Plan;

(c)
Claims . Have the discretionary authority to determine all claims filed pursuant to Section 6.2 of this Plan and shall have the authority to determine issues of fact relating to such claim;

(d)
Payment of Benefits . Direct, or establish procedures for, the payment of benefits from the Plan; and

(e)
Plan Records . Maintain, or cause to be maintained, all documents and records necessary or appropriate to the maintenance of the Plan.

5.3    Compensation.

Members of the Management Benefits Committee and the Plan Administrator shall serve without compensation from the Plan for their services as such.

5.4    Agent for Service of Process.

The Administrator shall be the agent for service of process on the Plan. If the Corporation is the Administrator, the agent for service of process on the Corporation shall be the agent for service of process on the Plan.

18



5.5    Indemnification.

The Corporation shall indemnify each member of the Compensation Committee, the Management Benefits Committee, the Administrator and individuals employed by, and acting on behalf of, the Plan Administrator from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, expenses and liability arising from their acts or failure to act with regard to the Plan and their duties and obligations as set forth herein unless such acts or omissions are judicially determined to be the result of such individual’s gross negligence, willful misconduct or criminal act.

ARTICLE VI
CLAIMS PROCEDURE

6.1    Filing of Claim.
The Plan Administrator shall provide written notice to any Participant or beneficiary who submits a claim for benefits within 90 days (45 days in case of a disability benefit) of the receipt of the claim, unless special circumstances (which, in the case of disability benefits, must be beyond the control of the Plan) require an extension. The extension shall not exceed 90 days (30 days in case of a disability benefit) beyond the initial 90-day (or 45-day) period. If an extension is necessary, the claimant shall receive a notice, before the initial 90-day (or 45-day) period expires, which explains why the extension is necessary and when a decision on the claim is expected. In the case of a disability benefit, if, prior to the end of the extended review period, the Plan Administrator determines that, due to matters outside the control of the Plan, a decision cannot be rendered within the extension period, the period for making a determination may be extended for an additional 30 days, provided the Plan Administrator notifies the claimant before the expiration of the first extension period of the circumstances requiring the extension and the date the Plan expects to render a decision. In the case of either the first or second extension of the review period, the notice to the claimant must explain the standards on which entitlement to the benefit is based, the unresolved issues that prevent a decision, and the additional information needed to resolve the issues. The claimant shall have 45 days within which to provide the specified information.

6.2    Denial of Claim .

The Plan Administrator shall provide, in a written or electronic notice to all claimants who are denied a claim for benefits, the following information written in a manner calculated to be understood by the claimant:

(a)    the specific reason or reasons for denial;

(b)
specific reference to pertinent Plan provisions on which the denial is based;


19


(c)
a description of any additional material or information necessary for the claimant to perfect the claim and an explanation of why such material or information is necessary;

(d)
an explanation of the Plan's claim review procedures and the time limits applicable to such procedures including a statement that the claimant is entitled to receive, upon request and free of charge, reasonable access to and copies of, all documents, records and other information relevant to the claimant’s claim for benefits;

(e)
a statement of the claimant’s right to bring a civil action under ERISA Section 502(a) following an adverse benefit determination on review; and, if applicable in the case of a disability benefit;

(f)
the specific rule, guideline, protocol or similar criterion (if any) that was relied on in making the benefit determination, or a statement that the rule, guideline, protocol or other similar criterion was relied on and will be provided to the claimant free of charge upon request; and

(g)
if a disability claim, the identity of the medical or vocational experts whose advice was obtained by the Plan Administrator in the process of deciding the claim, regardless of whether the advice was relied upon.

6.3    Appeal.     

A claimant whose claim has been denied may request a review of the denial by the Management Benefits Committee by making written application within 90 days (180 days in case of a disability benefit) after the receipt of written notification of a denial of a claim. The claimant may submit written comments, documents, records and other information relating to the claim for benefits.

6.4    Review of Appeal .

The Management Benefits Committee’s decision on review shall take into account all comments, documents, records and other information submitted as part of the request for review, whether or not submitted as part of the initial benefit determination. In the case of a disability benefit, the review of a denied claim shall be conducted by a reviewer, which is neither the individual who made the adverse benefit determination nor a subordinate of that individual. The reviewer shall not give deference to the original adverse determination, and if the claim denial was based in whole or in part on a medical judgment, shall consult with a health care professional who has appropriate training and experience in the field of medicine involved in the medical judgment, but who was not consulted in connection with the original adverse claim determination, or a subordinate of that individual.

20



6.5    Decision on Appeal .

The decision on review shall be made within 60 days (45 days in case of a disability benefit) after the receipt of a request for review, unless special circumstances require an extension period. The extension shall not exceed 120 days (90 days in case of a disability benefit) from the request for review. If circumstances require an extension, the claimant shall receive a notice before the initial 60-day (or 45-day) period expires, which explains why the extension is necessary and when a decision on review is accepted. The decision on review shall be provided in a written or electronic notice, shall be written in a manner calculated to be understood by the claimant, and in the event of an adverse determination shall include:

(a)
the specific reason or reasons for the adverse determination;

(b)
specific references to pertinent Plan provisions on which the denial is based;

(c)
statement that the claimant is entitled to receive, upon request and free of charge, reasonable access to and copies of, all documents, records and other information relevant to the claimant’s claim for benefits;

(d)
for disability benefits, if an internal rule, guideline, protocol, or other similar criterion was relied upon in making the adverse determination, either the specific rule, guideline, protocol, or other similar criterion or a statement that such rule, guideline, protocol or other similar criterion was relied upon in making the adverse determination and that a copy will be provided free of charge to the claimant upon request; and

(e)
a statement of the claimant’s right to bring an action under ERISA Section 502(a) and for disability claims, the following statement: “You and your Plan may have other voluntary alternative dispute resolution options, such as mediation. One way to find out what may be available is to contact your local U.S. Department of Labor Office and your State insurance regulatory agency.

21



ARTICLE VII
MISCELLANEOUS

7.1
No Contract of Employment.

The adoption and maintenance of the Plan shall not be deemed to be a contract between the Corporation and any person or to be consideration for the employment of any person. Nothing herein contained shall be deemed to give any person the right to be retained in the employ of the Corporation or to restrict the right of the Corporation to discharge any person at any time nor shall the Plan be deemed to give the Corporation the right to require any person to remain in the employ of the Corporation or to restrict any person's right to terminate his or her employment at any time.

7.2
Non-Assignability of Benefits.

No Employee or other distributee of benefits under the Plan shall have any power or right to transfer, assign, anticipate, hypothecate or otherwise encumber any part or all of the amounts payable hereunder, which are expressly declared to be unassignable and non-transferable. Any such attempted assignment or transfer shall be void. No amount payable hereunder shall, prior to actual payment thereof, be subject to seizure by any creditor of any such Participant or beneficiary for the payment of any debt judgment or other obligation, by a proceeding at law or in equity, nor transferable by operation of law in the event of the bankruptcy, insolvency or death of such Participant or beneficiary hereunder.

7.3
Withholding.

All deferrals and payments provided for hereunder shall be subject to applicable withholding and other deductions as shall be required under any applicable local, state or federal law.

7.4
Amendment and Termination.     

(a)
Board of Directors . The Board of Directors shall have the right to amend, in whole or in part, any or all of the provisions of the Plan or to terminate the Plan at any time and without the consent of any other party or person.

(b)
Management Benefits Committee . The Management Benefits Committee shall have the right, at any time, without the consent of any other party or person, to modify or amend any or all of the provisions of the Plan, but only to the extent provided in Section 5.1(c).

22



(c)
Limitations . Except as provided in Section 4.5, no amendment or termination of this Plan shall impair the rights of an Employee to the extent earned as of the date of amendment or termination. For purposes of this Section 7.4, a Participant’s right to Plan benefits shall not be considered earned until such date as the Employee terminates employment and has begun receiving benefits under the Plan.

7.5
No Fiduciary Relationship Created.

Nothing contained in this Plan, and no action taken pursuant to its provisions by any party hereto, shall create, nor be construed to create, a fiduciary relationship between the Corporation, the Board of Directors, any officers of the Corporation, the Compensation Committee, the Management Benefits Committee and the Employee or any other person.

7.6
Unsecured General Creditor Status of Employee.

(a)
The payments to a Participant, his or her Beneficiary or any other distributee hereunder shall be made from assets which shall continue, for all purposes, to be a part of the general, unrestricted assets of the Corporation; no person shall have nor acquire any interest in any such assets by virtue of the provisions of this Plan.

(b)
The Corporation's obligation hereunder shall be an unfunded and unsecured promise to pay money in the future. To the extent that the Employee or other distributee acquires a right to receive payments from the Corporation under the provisions hereof, such right shall be no greater than the right of any unsecured general creditor of the Corporation; no such person shall have nor require any legal or equitable right, interest or claim in or to any property or assets of the Corporation.

7.7
Severability.

If any provision of this Plan shall be held illegal or invalid for any reason, said illegality or invalidity shall not affect the remaining provisions hereof; instead, each provision shall be fully severable and the Plan shall be construed and enforced as if said illegal or invalid provision had never been included herein.

7.8
Offset.

The payment of benefits under the Plan will be reduced by the amount (no greater than $5,000 in any calendar year) that a Participant owes the Corporation or any related entity for any reason, including but not limited to benefit or wage overpayments. The Participant will be relieved of liability in the amount of the reduction following the payment to the Corporation.

23



7.9
Intent to Comply with IRC Section 409A.

This Plan shall be interpreted and administered, to the extent possible, in a manner that does not result in a “plan failure” within the meaning of IRC Section 409A)(a)(1) of this Plan or any other plan or arrangement maintained by the Corporation. If a determination is made by the Internal Revenue Service that the benefit of any Participant provided herein is subject to current income taxation under Section 409A of the IRC, such benefit will be immediately distributed to the Participant (or the Participant’s beneficiary) to the extent of such taxable amount. Notwithstanding any provision of the Plan, no plan modifications or distributions will be allowed or implemented if they would cause a Plan Participant to be subject to tax (including interest and penalties) under IRC Section 409A.

7.10
Governing Laws.

All provisions of the Plan shall be construed in accordance with the laws of Michigan except to the extent preempted by federal law.

7.11
Binding Effect.

This Plan shall be binding on each Participant and his or her heirs and legal representatives and on the Corporation and its successors and assigns.

7.12
Number and Gender.

Wherever appropriate herein, words used in the singular shall be considered to include the plural and words used in the plural shall be considered to include the singular. The masculine gender, where appearing in the Plan, shall be deemed to include the feminine gender.

7.13
Headings.

The headings of Articles and Sections herein are included solely for convenience, and if there is any conflict between such headings and the text of the Plan, the text shall control.

7.14
Entire Agreement.

This document and any amendments contain all the terms and provisions of the Plan and shall constitute the entire Plan, any other alleged terms or provisions being of no effect.


24



IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Corporation has adopted this amended and restated Plan on the 26 th day of July 2012.

AMERICAN AXLE & MANUFACTURING, INC.




By: _ /s/_ _________________________________

Its: _Authorized Person _____________________










25



EXHIBIT 31.1 - CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT

 
I, Richard E. Dauch, certify that:

1.
I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.;

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

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

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

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

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

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

d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

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


 
Date: July 27, 2012

/s/ Richard E. Dauch
Richard E. Dauch
Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)
 





EXHIBIT 31.2 - CERTIFICATION PURSUANT TO RULE 13a-14(a)
OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT
 
 
I, Michael K. Simonte, certify that:

1.
I have reviewed this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q of American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.;

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

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

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

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

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

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

d)
Disclosed in this report any change in the registrant's internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the registrant's most recent fiscal quarter that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant's internal control over financial reporting; and

5.
The registrant's other certifying officer and I have disclosed, based on our most recent evaluation of internal control over financial reporting, to the registrant's auditors and the audit committee of the registrant's board of directors (or persons performing the equivalent functions):
a)
All significant deficiencies and material weaknesses in the design or operation of internal control over financial reporting which are reasonably likely to adversely affect the registrant's ability to record, process, summarize and report financial information; and

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


 
Date: July 27, 2012

/s/ Michael K. Simonte
Michael K. Simonte
Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
(Principal Financial Officer)





EXHIBIT 32 - CERTIFICATIONS PURSUANT TO
18 U.S.C. SECTION 1350, AS ADOPTED PURSUANT TO
SECTION 906 OF THE SARBANES-OXLEY ACT OF 2002

 
 
 
In connection with the Quarterly Report of American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc. (Issuer) on Form 10-Q for the period ending June 30, 2012 as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on the date hereof (Report), I, Richard E. Dauch, Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board & Chief Executive Officer of the Issuer, and I, Michael K. Simonte, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer of the Issuer, certify, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, that:

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

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

 

 

/s/ Richard E. Dauch
 
 
/s/  Michael K. Simonte
 
Richard E. Dauch
 
 
Michael K. Simonte
 
Co-Founder, Chairman of the Board &  
 
 
Executive Vice President &
 
Chief Executive Officer   
 
 
Chief Financial Officer
 
July 27, 2012
 
 
July 27, 2012